Nutrition Health Info

Resveratrol

2010-10-22T01:41:34Z

Resveratrol is a phytochemical found in a variety of plants, fruits and associated fruit products, including grapes, mulberries and blueberries. It has been linked to anti-aging, antioxidant and cardio protective benefits. Some scientists have hypothesized that it may be partially responsible for the "French Paradox," the seemingly low rate of cardiovascular disease among the French. A study conducted in 2008 found that resveratrol consumption similar to the amounts found in a pattern of normal wine consumption may have a positive outcome on ischemic cardiovascular disease. For 15 days, 20 healthy volunteers consumed 300mg of either red or white wine. There was evidence of inhibition of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production and platelet formation, leading researchers to conclude that resveratrol may contribute the positive effects observed with wine consumption. Further research on the potential benefits and risks of resveratrol is warranted.

For more information:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed

Blueberries

2010-10-22T01:35:25Z

Blueberries and their juice are commonly associated with antioxidant power. These tiny fruits grow primarily in North America and are a rich source of polyphenols, such as anthocyanins. In a recent study, the phytochemicals found in blueberries were associated with improving insulin resistance in obese participants. The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study required twice daily consumption of blueberry bioactives for a period of six weeks. At the end of the study period, participants who received the blueberry compounds showed a significant increase in insulin sensitivity over those given the placebo. Significant steps were taken to address potential confounding factors, such as counseling and monitoring participants to ensure there were no changes in weight or physical activity. Researchers concluded that further research to explore the cellular mechanisms and the potential for long-term benefits is needed.

For more information:
http://jn.nutrition.org/cgi/content/abstract/140/10/1764

Tart Cherry

2010-10-22T01:24:47Z

In a placebo-controlled study on muscle pain in endurance athletes, it was found that tart cherry juice may have attenuated muscle soreness after endurance runs. It is thought that muscle soreness after activity is due to oxidative damage and inflammation. Antioxidants such as those found in tart cherry may help reduce the effects of the oxidative damage and inflammation, thus reducing the associated pain. During the seven-day study, one participant reported some discomfort after consumption of the study beverage and consequently withdrew. There were no other adverse events reported. Researchers advise that results be interpreted cautiously, due to study limitations such as the subjective assessment of pain as reported by participants. Further research is warranted to determine the mechanism of action for the pain and inflammation reduction observed in the study group.

Mangosteen and Immune Function

2009-09-11T00:56:59Z

A recent clinical study of a mangosteen dietary supplement with vitamins and minerals was found to show positive benefits to human immune function. A randomized double blind placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 59 healthy human volunteers over the course of 30 days. At the conclusion of the trial, the data indicated a statistically significant change in immune function markers from the baseline in the study group versus the placebo group. The changes were positive and pointed to enhance immune function. Subjects from the study group also self reported a greater sense of improved health. Further studies evaluating the effects of the mangosteen product on different population groups with emphasis on long term outcomes is warranted. Click here for more information

Energy Drinks and the Globalization of Guarana

2009-06-18T00:08:16Z

The guarana plant has been utilized for centuries for general health and medicinal purposes by the Satere'-Maue, an Indigenous Tribe of the Brazilian Amazon. It was often used prior to hunting for strength or to treat fevers and headaches. The guarana was of such great importance to the Satere'-Maue that they wove it into their myths. Click here for more information.

Green Tea and Breast Cancer

2008-05-02T21:31:32Z

In a recent scientific research study, presented at the Experimental Biology 2008 conference, the green tea antioxidant EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate) significantly slowed breast cancer growth in female mice. Earlier studies have suggested that this antioxidant may protect against breast cancer and other cancers, but the amount of research has been small, and the mechanics behind the physiological effects has not been understood. Researchers now have mounting evidence to help confirm that green tea's anticancer effects may be, in large part, because of its high content of EGCG. In this study, EGCG appears to protect the body's cells from becoming dam-aged and aging prematurely. Additional research would help to further understand the value of EGCG and its role in breast cancer. Click here for more information.

Diet Helps Reduce Cardiac Disease in Women

2008-05-02T18:48:39Z

At the conclusion of a recently published research article, scientists stated that a diet resembling The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet was significantly associated with lower risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke in women. The DASH eating plan consists of a high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, moderated intake of legumes, nuts, and low-fat dairy products, and low intake of red and processed meats and sodium. For the details surrounding this study go to the Archives of Internal Medicine, Volume 168, No. 7, April 2008.

Glyconutrients Defined

2007-02-01T19:31:08Z

Glyconutrients are healthy plant nutrients. They are found at the cellular level of edible plants in the form of polysaccharides or plant sugars. Glyconutrients come from a variety of sources but most notably from the succulent and highly nutritious aloe vera plant. Glyconutrients work naturally to help support many necessary functions in the body.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

Select Monosaccharides Effective In Stimulating Immune System

2007-02-01T19:30:13Z

The effect of selected monosaccharides on the random migration of normal adult rabbit alveolar macrophages (AM) was investigated by researchers. Findings showed that the three monosaccharides, L-fucose, L-galactose, and L-mannose, enhanced rabbit macrophage migration enhancement activity. A macrophage is a type of white blood cell that surrounds and kills microorganisms, removes dead cells, and stimulates the action of other immune system cells. The immune system stimulation seen by the three monosaccharides tested hold promise for humans but human studies are needed to be sure. For more information on this study go to the Journal of Leukocyte Biology, Volume 41, March 1987. Click here for more information.

Proanthocyanidins are a Specific Class of Phytonutrients with Numerous Health Giving Properties

2007-02-01T19:27:30Z

This class of flavonoids earned their primary reputation as being powerful antioxidants or free radical scavengers. Free radicals are damaging unstable oxygen molecules that get into the body as a result of over-exercise, stress, being exposed to dirty air and other environmental pollutants. Proanthocyanidins also help in the stabilization of collagen and elastin. These are two critical fibrous proteins found in the connective tissues that support organs, joints, blood vessels and muscle. Proanthocyanidins can be found in numerous plant and food sources.

Preliminary Study Shows Proanthocyanidins Defend Brain Activity

2007-02-01T19:27:01Z

At Bangalore University's Department of Zoology in India, scientists conducted a study involving rats which showed that proanthocyanidins (PA) consumed in a moderately low quantity provides antioxidant protection of the brain. Researchers concluded that PA may have a potent role in enhancing cognition in older rats. This is possibly exciting news for humans, however, more human research would provide a fuller understanding of a PA/human relationship. For more information go to the Medical Science Monitor, Volume 12, April 2006. Click here for more information.

Proanthocyanidins May Prevent Periodontal Disease

2007-02-01T19:26:26Z

Proanthocyanidins have been reported to possess a wide range of biologic properties against oxidative stress. For this reason a recent study was conducted using proanthocyanidins to see if they hold potential in helping to protect against periodontopathogens. The study, conducted in Canada, demonstrated that proanthocyanidins have potent antioxidant properties and should be considered a potential agent in the prevention of periodontal diseases. Periodontal diseases are dental diseases involving bone loss, pockets, and recession of the gums. More research is needed to confirm these findings. For more information go to the Journal of Periodontology, Volume 77, August 2006. Click here for more information.

Vitamin D Lauded as Super Vitamin

2006-12-10T18:44:46Z

An article featured in a recent Reader’s Digest magazine, citing evidence from the University of California, San Diego, proclaimed incredible value in vitamin D from sunlight. One study showed that colon cancer rates in less-sunny northeastern states was higher than in sunny climates. Lack of vitamin D may be a cause of many types of cancers, according to some research 18 types of cancer are more common among people with low levels of vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight creates vitamin D in people through the skin, and some physicians are recommending vitamin D supplements, according to the article. Other illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, heart disease, and diabetes were linked to low vitamin D levels, the article said. Sun, supplements, and fortified foods were recommended for improving levels of vitamin D. Read More.

Eating Veggies Linked to Cognitive Health

2006-12-10T18:42:29Z

A study published in Neurology had concluded that high amounts of vegetable consumption may be associated with a slower rate of cognitive decline in older people. The Rush Institute on Healthy Aging reported that eating three portions of leafy green, yellow, and cruciferous vegetables can slow the loss of mental function as people age, possibly by as much as 40 percent. Fruits were a part of the study, but had little to no effect on cognitive decline. Researchers theorize that is due to vegetables having a higher vitamin E content than fruit. Read More.

Vitamin D Linked to Lowered Pancreatic Cancer Risk

2006-12-10T18:40:54Z

The good news on vitamin D continued recently in a study from Northwestern University in Chicago. Researchers reported in the journal Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention that vitamin D...exhibit(s) potent antitumor effects in many tissues, including the pancreas. Higher intakes of vitamin D were associated with lower risks for pancreatic cancer, prompting researchers to suggest that vitamin D may have a role in the future prevention of this specific form of cancer. Read More.