Beneits of Tea

Tea has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer benefits. An antioxidant works against “free radicals” which are unbalanced molecules that oxidize skin and body cells leading to aging. The plant leaf known as Camellia sinensis is where black tea, green tea, oolong tea and white tea are derived. Drinking tea contributes to beautiful skin and a healthy body with additional benefits such as reducing the risk of heart attack and preventing osteoporosis.

The teas derived from this plant differ in the way they are dried and fermented. They are rich sources of Vitamin C and E and contain Tannic acid. Tannic acid helps clean the skin and eliminate odour causing bacteria. Green Tea also contains the amino acid L-theanine which has a calming effect against the caffeine found in tea. There are also herbal teas made from dried plants, flowers and leaves such as hibiscus, chamomile, mint, rose petals and rosehips.Black Tea is fully fermented during processing and has the antioxidant benefits found in green and white tea but to a lesser extent. It doesn’t taste as grassy as green tea because it is fermented. The fermentation process reduces the antioxidant effect.

Green Tea is not fermented at all and Oolong Tea is in between black and green tea in processing. Green Tea probably is the most beneficial of all teas owing to its properties and availability. Its proven anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial to the skin. It is also known to help strengthen teeth (due to the fluoride content), inhibit breast and ovarian cancer, burn fat, reduce insulin resistance and promote a healthy heart to mention a few. Research has shown that the breast cancer risk in Japanese women is significantly reduced in those who drink 6-10 small cups of green tea per day.

White Tea is the least processed of all teas and is similar to green tea. It tastes light and sweet and does not have the grassy taste of green tea. The white tea leaves are picked and harvested before the leaves fully open and the buds are covered with white hair hence the name. It has the most benefits of all the teas as it contains the most cancer fighting antioxidants and its scarcity makes it more expensive. There is considerably less caffeine in white tea (15mg per serving) than the other varieties with Black Tea containing 40mg per serving and Green Tea 30mg per serving. White Teas are produced mostly in China and Japan . The Darjeeling region of India also produces some fine white teas.

Health Benefits of Herbal Teas

There are several plants used for herbal teas and the health benefits are varied. The following are some commonly consumed herbal teas

·Chamomile Tea calms the nerves, induces sleep, eases cold symptoms and soothes the stomach. The flowers are used.

·Ginger Root Tea improves circulation, relieves cold and flu symptoms, eases stomach cramps and nausea, eases menstrual cramps and regulates blood sugar.

·Rooibos Tea is an herbal tea from South Africa . It’s distinctively red in colour, and has a strong sweet taste, with a nutty aftertaste. It’s rich in antioxidants and has relaxing properties.

·Fennel Tea from its seeds, improves appetite, aids the digestive process, relieves stomach cramps, eliminates flatulence and soothes sore throat and cough.

·Kava Kava Tea promotes sleep, is a muscle relaxant, eases anxiety, is a diuretic and it promotes urinary tract health. The roots are used.
·Mint Tea from its leaves eases stomach and digestive problems, helps relieve headaches and is relaxing.

·Rosehip Tea from its seed pods or “hips” has antioxidant properties, is a good source of Vitamin C, eases headaches and prevents bladder infections.

·St. John’s Wort Tea from its leaves relieves anxiety and irritability, is a relaxant, lifts the spirit and improves mood.
·Thyme Tea from its leaves boosts the immune system, promotes perspiration, is antiseptic and it eases sore throat and cough.

·Yarrow Tea from its flowers reduces cold symptoms and chest congestion and improves digestion and appetite.

·Valerian Tea from its roots is a relaxant, promotes sleep, eases nerves and relieves stomach cramps.

·Licorice Root Tea relieves cough and sore throat, improves digestion, eases menstrual cramps, reduces seasonal allergies and is believed to increase libido.
·Burdock Root Tea stimulates the liver, cleanses the blood, is anti-inflammatory, helps regulate blood sugar and has antioxidant properties.
·Cinnamon Tea from its bark improves circulation, eases cold and flu symptoms, relieves stomach upsets and menstrual cramps and helps regulate blood sugar and insulin.

·Strawberry Leaf Tea from its leaves and not the fruit soothes the stomach, relieves diarrhoea, and helps ease arthritis and rheumatism.
·Nettle Tea from its leaves is rich in Vitamins A and C, cleanses the blood, improves liver and kidney function, eases cough and other respiratory problems, and relieves diarrhoea and constipation.

·Sage Tea from its leaves calms nerves, improves digestion and eases lung congestion and cough.

·Fruit Teas Various fruits have also been used as infusions for tea.

Tea Beauty Tips

·Eye puffiness can be treated by applying cool moistened tea bags over them for about 10minutes.

·Soaking feet in black tea helps reduces odour because of its astringent and antibacterial properties.

·Placing a moistened green tea bag over an insect bite or wound helps soothe the area and reduce itching and swelling.
·A cooled strong cup of green tea may be used as an astringent for acne prone skin.

·Herbal Tea could add colour to hair. Sage will darken hair, Chamomile lightens blonde hair and Hibiscus tea gives red hair highlights.

·Using black or Ceylon tea for mixing henna hair colour instead of water improves the intensity.

·Sunburned skin may be soothed by having a tea bath. Run a tap over 4 to 5 teabags of Green, Jasmine or Oolong tea to fill bathtub and soak in warm water. Gently pat body dry and apply a soothing moisturiser.

P.S. know the Benefits of Vitamin D.

source

10 superfoods that can improve your life

These dietary dynamos fight everything from cholesterol to cancer, helping you live a longer, healthier life.

Not all foods were created equal -- some are so packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential fatty acids and other beneficial substances that they've been deemed "superfoods." Superfoods have incredible health benefits, packing a powerful nutritional punch that helps protect against cancer and heart disease, lower cholesterol, protect the organs from toxins and improve digestive health. Some nutritionists even say superfoods can help you live longer.


Here are 10 superfoods that can supercharge your diet, including fruits, vegetables, dairy, legumes, grains and fish.


Açai: This exotic berry from the Amazon has been the subject of intense hype, but there's a good reason why it's so trendy. Named by famed nutritionist Dr. Nicholas Perricone as his No. 1 superfood and one of the most powerful foods in the world, açaí (ah-sigh-ee) contains a remarkable concentration of antioxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids. It's considered one of nature's best offerings to combat premature aging thanks to its high monounsaturated oleic acid content. Oleic acid helps omega-3 fish oils penetrate cell membranes, making them more supple.


Yogurt: It's alive! Yogurt contains active cultures known as "friendly bacteria" that restore healthy balance in the digestive system. Among the most well-known cultures is Lactobacillus acidophilus, which passes through the stomach and populates the intestines, helping the body fight off infection. One cup contains 50 percent more calcium than the same size serving of milk, and it's also full of potassium, riboflavin, magnesium and phosphate.


Broccoli: This cruciferous vegetable is loaded with vitamin C, folic acid and carotenoids, which are packed with vitamin A and can protect your cells from the damage of free radicals, enhance immune system function and improve reproductive health. Just one serving (1 medium stalk) provides 175 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin K, which helps build strong bones and plays an important role in blood clotting. Just half a cup of broccoli per day is also said to help prevent a number of cancers, particularly cancers of the lung, colon, rectum and stomach.


Lentils: Among the most nutritious legumes, lentils are a great source of cholesterol-lowering fiber and lean protein. They contain lots of iron and B vitamins and are very filling, yet low in calories. Folate and magnesium also contribute to heart heath and improve the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients throughout the body.


Sweet potatoes: They'll satisfy your craving for starches but are far healthier than their white, nutritionally lacking cousins. Carotenoids, vitamin C, potassium and fiber are just a few of the benefits of eating this savory-sweet veggie, which is ranked among the highest vegetables on the nutrition scale. Sweet potatoes can help stabilize blood sugar, making them a great choice for diabetics, and are relatively low in calories.


Blueberries: Hidden within the juicy, deep blue-purple flesh of this tasty fruit is cancer-fighting ellagic acid, an antioxidant that has been proven in laboratory research to slow the growth of some cancerous tumors. Blueberry extracts have also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and help prevent infectious bacteria from clinging to the walls of the gut, bladder and urethra.


Wild salmon: Packed with omega-3 fats, wild salmon can help reduce the risk of sudden-death heart attacks and contains lots of vitamin D and selenium for healthy hair, skin, nails and bones. Wild salmon can be eaten with little fear of mercury or excess contaminants and is more nutritionally rich than farmed salmon. Wild salmon also has a smaller environmental impact. Consume two to four four-ounce servings a week for optimal benefits.


Goji berries: They've been called the most nutritionally dense food on Earth, and they taste something like salty raisins. Lycium barbarum, commonly known as goji berries, contain more vitamin C than oranges, more beta carotene than carrots and more iron than steak. The dried Himalayan fruit is also a great source of B vitamins and antioxidants and contains 15 amino acids. Goji has been used medicinally in China for centuries to improve blood circulation, strengthen the limbs, improve eyesight, protect the liver, increase libido and boost immune function.


Kale: A dark, leafy green in the same vegetable family as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, kale contains high amounts of beta carotene, iron and folate. It's also a low-calorie, low-carb source of protein that's packed with fiber, which improves digestive health and helps you feel full. A small cupful of cooked kale provides more than half the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.


Barley: This low-glycemic grain is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which help the body metabolize fats and promote a healthy digestive tract, respectively. Eating hulled barley on a regular basis is said to lower blood cholesterol levels, protect against cancer and keep blood-sugar levels stable. Barley is rich in niacin, vitamin E, lignans and phytochemicals that function as antioxidants.



source

Go BANANAS

This is a promise. After you finish reading this piece, you will never again look down on the humble banana.


Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you one of nature’s most wonderful and inexpensive little gift to us. It comes all packed, doesn’t need any washing or cutting and is ready to eat. It is full of nutrition and is the perfect snack. I have grown up on it, thanks to the frequent care talks from my parents. “It is nature’s own convenience food,” they used to tell us and claim that, “It stores solar energy.” Finally, they would conclude by saying, “Eat it.” So every single breakfast was topped off with a banana, a wonderful fruit with great health benefits which our parents, the monkeys and I seemed to know about. That was then.


- Two small bananas contain the same amount of fibre as a slice of whole wheat bread?
- Bananas can also help in alleviating blood pressure?
- Bananas indirectly help in lowering blood cholesterol.
- Bananas also contain vitamin C, are a good source of vitamin A and B6 too.


Here’s how, Bananas are a powerhouse of potassium. Research has shown that potassium plays a role in controlling blood pressure. This mineral is also beneficial in eliminating poisonous waste from the kidneys. It is rich in magnesium, which promotes absorption and metabolism of calcium.

Two small bananas provide about as much fibre as a slice of whole wheat bread. But unlike bread, bananas contain a significant amount of soluble fibre and as shown in studies conducted at the University of Minnesota, diets rich in fruits, vegetables and legumes help lower blood cholesterol and soluble fibre has earned credit for doing this job.


BANANAS FOR TASTE

All this apart, I love the taste of the banana when it is about to burst with ripeness,and that is why when it comes to fruits, I always pick a banana over some fruit. I also enjoy it chopped in my salad or made crunchy with peanuts. Try making a simply scrumptious dessert by sautéing sliced bananas in orange juice and adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon. Try baking banana pieces after tossing with lime juice and honey and let them bake till almost tender and you’ll understand why bananas are worth going bananas over.


SPORTSMEN LIKE BANANAS!

Bananas release energy slowly, thus helping to build endurance and stamina, which is very important when it comes to sports.


PREGNANCY

Pregnant mothers need increased energy and nutrient levels. Demands for vitamin C and folate increase during pregnancy and bananas prove to be an excellent source of both. They are also easily digestible and are a convenient snack, particularly helpful at times when problems like nausea make regular eating a problem.

OLD AGE

Bananas are also a particularly useful food in old age as they can be easily peeled, are easy to eat, rich in vitamin C B6 and folate, and provide fibre and resistant starch. They also help prevent constipation, an increasing problem with advancing years.



source

The Natural Color of a Food Can Be a Reliable Indicator of the Nutrients it Supplies

You're shopping at the food market, wondering and trying to put together a healthy diet for a week, which requires you to divine just what you'll be in the mood for a couple of days from now. The beets look good. There's a special on lamb chops. And the strawberries are calling your name and telling you we are benefits of vitamin C. Exactly how much, and of what, do you need to buy--and eventually consume--to meet your nutrient requirements?

Start with vitamin D, the sunshine vitamin. The evidence is amassing that we need it not just for strong bones but for durable minds, healthy hearts, and to ward off many types of cancer. But where do we get it (besides sunshine)? And (this is the big question) exactly how are we supposed to know what the recommended daily allowance--expressed by the government and nutritionists in international units, anywhere from 200 to 600 of them--looks like in terms of actual food? And that's just one of 13 vitamins, 14 minerals, several types of fiber, and countless antioxidants and phytochemicals that help maintain health. How do you balance all of those needs in real food?

The foods you eat every day--fruits and veggies, meats and meat substitutes, dairy products and bread--all contain vital nutrients and vitamin C benefits that contribute to a healthy diet. But some--particularly, deeply colored fruits and veggies--are superstars. Not only are such foods rich in nutrients needed in specific amounts, they also contain phytochemicals and other functional ingredients for which no minimum amount has yet been established.

Your best bet is to think: color. The natural color of a food can be a reliable indicator of the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients it supplies. For example, dark green veggies such as broccoli, spinach, and sugar snap peas are high in benefits of vitamin C. Red, yellow, and orange fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet peppers, and sweet potatoes are known for their high beta carotene, or vitamin A, content, but they can also be rich in vitamin C.

White fruits and veggies, like mushrooms, potatoes, and bananas, supply B vitamins and many minerals, while white dairy products--milk, yogurt, cheese--provide ample amounts of calcium (and are usually fortified with vitamin D).

Purplish-blue foods, like grapes and blueberries, are best known for their anticancer and heart-helping antioxidants. But like most other fruits and vegetables, they're also high in vitamin C and fiber.

Brown foods, in the form of grains, nuts, and seeds, supply vitamins E and B, which include folic acid. Brown and white foods like meat, fish, poultry, tofu, and legumes stand out as defining sources of protein and minerals like iron and zinc.

The more colors you toss into your shopping cart, the better chance you have of meeting all your nutritional needs. Choose a variety of superstars from every food group--mangoes and blueberries from the fruit group; spinach, broccoli, and potatoes from vegetables; oatmeal, wheat germ, and a multigrain roll from the grains; skim milk and yogurt from dairy; salmon and lentils from the protein group--all packed into a single day.

Approach your snacks just as wisely. Instead of grabbing a handful of pretzels or chips, fill the gaps between meals nutritiously. You can nibble on berries or other fresh fruits; pick away at almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds; savor low-fat yogurts and cheeses; or munch on whole-grain crackers. Not all at once, of course.

"You don't have to meet the daily requirement for every single nutrient every single day, and in fact, most people can't," says Susan Finn, CEO of the American Council for Fitness and Nutrition and former president of the American Dietetic Association. "Focus on choosing a wide variety of foods from every food group, every day, at every meal, include plenty of 'superstars,' and you'll get the nutrients you need."

To meet the nutritional needs of two people for a day, here's a rough guide to what to put in your shopping basket: 1 to 1 1D2 pounds of meat, fish, poultry, or protein alternative like beans, tofu, or wheat gluten; 1D2 to 1 pound each of three or four different vegetables, including one starchy veggie such as potatoes, peas, or winter squash; two pieces of three or four different fruits, including berries; a quart of milk, two containers of yogurt, and one or two types of cheese; a high-fiber cereal such as oatmeal or raisin bran; walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds for snacking; a box of pasta or a bag of rice to substitute for starchy vegetables. Bon appétit.

A MODEL MENU

This sample meal plan, providing 1,800 to 2,000 calories, can serve as a template for planning healthful, well-balanced meals that provide the nutrients you need each day. To vary the menu, make sure your shopping list includes similar types of foods from the same food groups. Substitute cantaloupe or papaya for mango, and raspberries for blueberries; switch black bean soup for lentil, sirloin and sweet peppers for salmon and broccoli.


BREAKFAST

1 cup cooked steel-cut oatmeal (B vitamins, iron, fiber) with 2 Tbsp. wheat germ (vitamin E, B vitamins, zinc)

1 cup skim milk (calcium, protein, B vitamins, vitamin D)

1 cup mango cubes (vitamins A and C, fiber) mixed with 1D2 cup blueberries (vitamin C, antioxidants)


LUNCH

1 1D2 cups lentil soup (protein, B vitamins, fiber, minerals)

Small whole-grain roll (B vitamins, fiber, minerals)

Spinach, tomato, and avocado salad: (vitamins A, B, C, calcium, iron)

1 medium tomato, cut up (vitamins A and C, fiber, phytochemicals)

1D4 avocado, sliced (vitamin E, monounsaturated fats)

1 Tbsp. vinaigrette dressing (vitamin E and monounsaturated fats)

SNACK

Light string cheese stick (calcium, protein)

2 Tbsp. whole almonds (vitamin E, phytochemicals)

1 medium orange (vitamin C, folic acid, potassium)


DINNER

6-oz. filet of grilled salmon (protein, B vitamins, vitamin E, omega 3 fatty acids), brushed with olive oil (vitamin E, monounsaturated fats)

Baked potato (vitamin C, fiber, iron), topped with 1D2 cup low-fat yogurt (calcium, protein, B vitamins, vitamin D)

1 to 2 cups steamed broccoli (vitamins A and C, folic acid, calcium, fiber) topped with 2 Tbsp. grated Romano cheese (calcium, protein)

BONUS: 8-oz. wine or grape juice (antioxidants)



source

Feed Your Immune System

Make these immune system-boosting foods a part of your diet for added protection against potential viruses, disease and other invader. These fruits have their benefits of Vitamin C w/c would make your body stronger so you can live long and healthy.

Berries
Berries are a good source of a group of phytonutrients called bioflavenoids, which aid the immune system by protecting the cells of the body against environmental pollutants.
• Elderberries have the highest concentration of specific flavonoids called anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant. Elderberries also have been studied to see if they may prevent the flu virus from invading healthy cells’ membranes. (note - don't eat raw elderberries, instead use a commercially prepared extract or syrup or cook to create your own tincture)
• Blueberries, nature's only 'blue' food, are a rich source of polyphenols, potent antioxidants that include phenolics acids, tannins, flavonols and anthocyanins. And, like cranberries, blueberries appear to fight off urinary-tract infections by preventing E. coli bacteria from sticking to cells in the urinary tract.
• Pomegranate fruit seeds appear to enhance immune function as well as help keep blood lipid levels healthy.

Green tea
Green tea is a great source of L-theanine, an amino acid that triggers the release of germ-fighting compounds from your T-cells. In one study, tea drinkers transformed their immune system T cells into “super cells” that pumped out 10 times more cold and flu virus-fighting interferon - proteins that defend against infection.
Green tea is also loaded with powerful antioxidants, which may protect against cell damage that leads to aging and help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, which tops the list of immune boosters for many reasons. There has been more research about the immune-boosting effects of Vitamin C than perhaps any other nutrient. Vitamin C increases the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and antibodies and increases levels of interferon, the antibody that coats cell surfaces, preventing the entry of viruses. Mention fruits w/c has high benefits of vitamin C and people will immediately say Citrus Fruits.

Lean Meats
Lean beef, poultry and pork are good sources of Zinc, which helps white blood cells and other antibodies reproduce more quickly, and it makes them more aggressive so they're better at fighting off infections. Zinc also prevents bacterial and viral growth directly, either by poisoning the infectious agents or encouraging immune reaction at the site of infection.

Zinc deficiency, even when moderate, can depress immune system function. It is one of the most common nutritional shortfalls among American adults, especially for vegetarians.

Salmon
Of all fats, omega-3 fatty acids, or fish oils - found in fish such as Pacific salmon - created the highest blood levels of flu-fighting T cells and interferon-gamma cytokines in a British study of 150 people. The omega-3s act as immune boosters by increasing the activity of phagocytes, the white blood cells that eat up bacteria. Essential fatty acids also protect the body against damage from over-reactions to infection.

Nuts
Different varieties of nuts contain immune-boosting minerals:
• Brazil nuts are high in selenium, a mineral that increases natural killer cells and mobilizes cancer-fighting cells. One study showed an increased immune cell production of proteins called cytokines, which help clear flu viruses out of your body, in those who had adequate selenium intakes.
• Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, which stimulates the production of natural killer cells – cells that seek out and destroy germs and cancer cells. Vitamin E enhances the production of B-cells, the immune cells that produce antibodies that destroy bacteria. Vitamin E supplementation may also reverse some of the decline in immune response commonly seen in aging.

Yogurt
Yogurt that contains live cultures rich in lactobacillus and bifidibacteria lactis fight bacteria that cause diseases and raise your white blood cell count.

Acidophilus actively fights disease-causing bacteria like salmonella and shigella-caused dysentery, it helps rid various types of diarrhea and it even helps fight viral infections.

Bifidobacterium lactis has been shown to boost immune system response in the elderly. Researchers found that those who ate the bacteria had higher counts of immune T cells, helper cells and killer cells in their bloodstreams, which all help fight off sickly cells in the body.

Many yogurts also contain vitamin D, which scientists are now focusing on as a critical factor in immune function. In a recent study, people with the lowest blood vitamin D levels reported having significantly more recent colds or cases of the flu.

Sweet potatoes and carrots
Carrots and sweet potatoes contain high amounts of beta carotene/vitamin A, a powerful phytonutrient. Beta carotene increases the number of infection-fighting cells, natural killer cells, and helper T-cells, as well as being a powerful antioxidant that mops up excess free radicals that accelerate aging. So add this to your daily meals w/c also has Vitamin C benefits. So the more intake the more you live long and healthy. It has also been shown that beta carotene supplements can increase the production of T-cell lymphocytes and natural killer cells and can enhance the ability of the natural killer cells to attack cancer cells.

Mushrooms
Rich in compounds called beta glucans, mushrooms boost the production of NK-cells and T-cells in your body to help prevent infections. Studies also show that mushrooms increase the production and activity of white blood cells, making them more aggressive – a good thing when you have an infection.

Shiitake and maitake mushrooms appear to pack the biggest immunity punch.

Oats and barley
These grains contain beta-glucan, a type of fiber with antimicrobial and antioxidant capabilities more potent than echinacea. When animals eat this compound, they're less likely to contract influenza and even anthrax; in humans, it boosts immunity, speeds wound healing and may help antibiotics work better.

Garlic
This flavorful member of the onion family is a powerful immune booster that stimulates the multiplication of infection-fighting white cells, boosts natural killer cell activity, and increases the efficiency of antibody production. Garlic contains the active ingredient allicin, which fights infection and bacteria. In one study, researchers gave 146 people either a placebo or a garlic extract for 12 weeks; the garlic takers were two-thirds less likely to catch a cold.

While you should aim to include a variety of these foods in your daily or weekly diet, it can be very difficult to get enough of each of these foods on a regular basis to provide the recommended amount of the immune-boosting compounds they supply. If you have a predisposition to a weakened immune system, and are prone to frequent infections, colds and flu, you may also want to take a supplement specifically designed for the immune system for increased protection. and enjoy the benefits of Vitamin C so as to live long and healthy.

source

Health tip of the day: Health Benefits of Honeydew

Honeydew is a member of the melon family; it is the sweetest of all melons when ripe. Honeydew is a popular fruit not just because of its delicious delicately sweet taste but also because of its many health benefits. The edible portion is an excellent source of Vitamin C, provitamin A and potassium, zinc, and valuable digestive enzymes. They are fairly low in carbohydrates but since it is big you can usually get enough of your recommended daily requirement.

Honeydew is harvested based on maturity, not size. The maturity of this fruit is somewhat hard to determine, the simplest way to known if its mature already is its ground colour ranging from greenish white (immature) to creamy yellow (mature).

Health Benefits:

- Contains potassium, this mineral helps keep your muscles from cramping.

- Great source of folic acid for women of childbearing age because it is known to prevent birth defects.

- Ideal food for people who want to lose weight and for those who want to improve their health because it is low in sodium, fat-free, cholesterol free and low calories. One cup of honeydew contains 60 calories.

- Contain plenty of water which keeps us hydrated.

- It is a great source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can help prevent many diseases.

Nutrient Value: per 100 g

- Vitamin C: 18 mg
- Fibre: 1 g
- Protein: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 18 mg
- Fat: 0.1 g

source

Natural Health 101: Chlorella algae is a true superfood

Chlorella is a simple, single-celled green algae, that hails from freshwater pools and rivers of the Far East. There is emerging research around the world – though most especially in China and Japan – showing just how much of a superfood it is.

Some studies have focused on its cancer-fighting capabilities. They have shown that it may have a positive effect in preventing cancer, and there have been conflicting results as to whether or not it can help reduce tumors once they have developed.

Several studies have shown it to have a whole host of immune system boosting effects, including the production of interferon and T-cells. It is also a powerful detoxifier, even including heavy metals.

But perhaps the greatest feature of chlorella is how close to a complete source of nutrients it is, wider than any other single food. It contains many vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, beta carotene, and the entire vitamin B complex, not to mention being one of the few food sources of vitamin D. It contains potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, and other important trace minerals. It also has omega-3 fatty acids, and eighteen of the twenty-two amino acids the body requires, including all of the 'essential' amino acids which must be acquired through food. And last but not least, it has among the highest protein content available in any edible plant form.

All of these factors combine to give chlorella a range of health benefits that seem almost unparalleled, including many so-called "lifestyle diseases", such as obesity, diabetes, depression, chronic indigestion, and heart disease.

source

Antioxidise your health

Your immune system is your body’s defence system against illness and disease.


WHAT can we do to help our bodies cope better with infectious illnesses?

It definitely helps to have a strong and healthy immune system. Here’s how it works – the immune system is like the security system in your home. This system is continuously monitoring the environment for anything that is out of place, and when an unusual situation is detected, it dispatches the most appropriate defence mechanisms.

The immune system recognises viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, and mutant cells, and it has a variety of “soldiers” (immune cells such as macrophages, neutrophils and natural killer cells), each with it own weapons and methods of attack to destroy these invaders.

Harmful free radicals and the human immune system

The harmful free radicals from our environment are a major cause of ill-health. These free radicals can come from exposure to the sun’s rays (UV light), pollution, radiation, stress, and poor diet.

Immune cells also suffer from free radical damage. This results in lowered immunity. The good thing is that we are not completely powerless. Antioxidant supplements can help protect our immune system from the damage of free radical “bombardment”.

Antioxidant army

We have our own army of defence against free radicals and they are called antioxidants. Antioxidants have the ability to render free radicals harmless. As long as there are adequate amounts of antioxidants within our bodies to handle the free radicals produced within the cell, there is little or no damage to surrounding tissues.

The body has the ability to make some of its own antioxidants, five of which are Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Coenzyme Q10 and Glutathione Peroxidase. However, the body may not be able to produce enough antioxidants on its own to neutralise all of the free radicals that are produced.

Although many antioxidants can be obtained from food sources, it is difficult to get enough to hold back free radicals constantly generated in our polluted environment. That is why we need to get the rest of the antioxidants from supplements.

Vitamin A (Beta carotene)

This is a powerful free radical scavenger that attacks and neutralises the singlet oxygen, a dangerous free radical that affects our eyes, skin and lungs.

In a number of studies, beta-carotene supplementation was found to enhance certain immune responses. Early studies demonstrated the ability of beta-carotene and other carotenoids to prevent infections. Some clinical trials have found that beta-carotene supplementation improves several biomarkers of immune function. It can lead to an increase in the number of white blood cells and the activity of natural killer cells. Both of these are important in combating various diseases.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that has been demonstrated to have a substantial impact on human health. Supplementation of vitamin C was found to improve the human immune system response to infections.

People taking daily doses of vitamin C can boost their immune system, potentially protecting themselves from viruses and colds, according to a study presented at the 60th Anniversary Meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI).

Another function of vitamin C is helping to recycle vitamin E to keep it actively fighting free radicals.

Vitamin E

This is an effective antioxidant and immune system booster. Vitamin E bolsters the production of B-cells, which are the immune cells that produce antibodies that destroy bacteria and viruses.

Research shows that vitamin E enhances immunity in healthy elderly people. It has also been found to improve the circulatory system and oxygen absorption, and has a role in preventing cataracts.

Selenium

This is a trace mineral that synergises well with vitamin E and is the key component in the powerful glutathione-based antioxidant enzymes that convert hydrogen peroxide free radicals into water.

In addition, selenium is essential for a healthy immune system, assisting the body in defending against harmful bacteria and viruses, as well as cancer cells.

Zinc

Severe zinc deficiency depresses immune function and even mild to moderate degrees of zinc deficiency can impair immune cell function. The body requires zinc to develop and activate specific immune cell (T-lymphocytes).

Individuals with low zinc levels have been associated with increased susceptibility to pneumonia. Zinc is required to maintain effective levels of vitamin E and A. It is also the key ingredient in the very important antioxidant enzyme called superoxide dismutase (SOD).

Copper and manganese

These are both essential components of superoxide dismutase (SOD) that neutralises the most dangerous free radical in the body – superoxide.

Alpha lipoic acid

Dr Lester Packer, professor of the University of California, Berkeley, department of molecular and cell biology, is among the world’s leading antioxidant researchers and has described alpha lipoic acid as very close to an ideal antioxidant. Alpha lipoic acid can also recharge other antioxidants that have been used up. In the body, it helps regenerate other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione.

In addition to that, alpha lipoic acid is the only antioxidant that can boost the level of intracellular glutathione, a cellular antioxidant of tremendous importance. Besides being the body’s primary water-soluble antioxidant and a major detoxification agent, glutathione is absolutely essential for the functioning of the immune system.

Grape seed standardised extract

The active ingredients found in standardised extracts of grape seed are Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Research indicates that OPCs may be 20 to 50 times more potent as an antioxidant than vitamin C and E.

The body produces many types of free radicals – singlet oxygen, superoxides, hydroxyl, hydrogen peroxide, peroxyl, etc, and almost all are damaging to the immune system and other parts of the body. Different antioxidants neutralise different species of free radicals. Hence when it comes to antioxidant supplementation, it makes sense to take a supplement that contains a variety of antioxidants.


source

Want to be healthy and live longer? Take cues from Japan

Japan has the lowest obesity rate in the developed world - 3 percent versus 32 percent in the United States, according to the International Obesity Taskforce. Many believe the good overall health and long life expectancy rate of the Japanese is due to their diet.

"People in Japan tend to eat smaller portions of healthier types of food," says Dr. Mark Drucker, medical director of the Center for Advanced Medicine in Encinitas, Calif. "Eating plenty of low-mercury fatty fish, fresh vegetables and limiting red meat and refined sugars all contribute to this healthy lifestyle.

What can you do to reap the benefits of the Japanese diet at home? Here are some easy ideas from Dr. Drucker:

1. Try cultural cuisine
Sushi, a Japanese diet staple, is popular throughout the United States. Many grocery stores now carry pre-made sushi you can buy and snack on at home. Another fun way to enjoy sushi is to make it yourself. Try having a sushi-rolling party with your friends as a fun way to eat healthy and learn about another culture.

Making sushi yourself doesn't need to be difficult. Pick up a book with step-by-step instructions and a sushi starter kit with a rolling mat. "Good beginner items that pack a healthy punch are smoked salmon, eel and pre-cooked crab and lobster meat. If you'd prefer to skip the meat, there are many vegetarian options. Try adding carrots, cucumber, green onion and daikon radish for a tasty, and healthy, treat," comments Drucker.

2. Eat fresh veggies every day
Eating more fresh vegetables, raw when possible, is a great way to get many of the health benefits enjoyed by the Japanese people. A general rule is to eat vegetables in a wide range of colors, including dark green produce such as broccoli, spinach, kale and Swiss chard. These all provide high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, and many are shown to have cancer-preventing properties.

3. Consider a healthy detoxifying supplement
Chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the greenest plants on Earth, is a central property of immune-boosting, anti-aging vegetables. "Plants require chlorophyll to obtain energy from light, so it's no surprise an ancient alga called chlorella - which contains the most amount of chlorophyll of any digestible substance - can be called nature's green secret weapon when it comes to its long-term energy effect on human health. Chlorophyll is also one of the few and most effective ways to help the body eliminate mercury," says Drucker.

As many Americans struggle to reach the USDA-recommended five to seven vegetable servings per day, supplementing your diet with powerful green whole foods can provide a great alternative to fresh vegetables. Much like how Americans regularly take a vitamin C supplement, many Japanese take a supplement called Sun Chlorella to utilize the superfood benefits of chlorella, which contain the widest range of essential nutrients available in any single food source.

Chlorella's popularity in Japan spans decades, and its health benefits are more than anecdotal. A 2008 human clinical study showed that a daily serving of Sun Chlorella had positive results on several key blood levels and health markers including body fat percentage, serum total cholesterol and maintaining blood glucose levels. This may be the result of Sun Chlorella's unique pulverization process, which makes otherwise-inconsumable chlorella digestible by humans.

4. Enjoy fatty fish for good health
Most people have heard of omega-3, a good type of fatty acid. Research has shown that omega-3 supports cardiovascular health, immune function, brain health and could even have anti-cancer benefits.

Some healthy fish options that are packed with omega-3s include salmon, herring, mackerel, anchovies and sardines. Visit the Asian food section of your local grocery store to find some Japanese seasoning and sauces and try flavoring these types of fish with them for a truly authentic meal.

"Not only do these types of foods have many health benefits, but they are absolutely delicious and can be made to order," comments Drucker. "Whether it's steaming some salmon and veggies or incorporating Sun Chlorella tablets into your daily regimen, I truly believe that taking health cues from a traditional Japanese diet can benefit almost everyone."



source

Eat, Drink and Be Healthy

Foods with antioxidants keep you younger longer, inside and out.

Forget the Fountain of Youth. There's an entire Buffet of Youth out there and you can dine on its delectable offerings right in your own home.

Many fruits and vegetables, plus shellfish, whole grains, chicken, lean red meats and dark chocolate (but not milk chocolate) are loaded with the Buffet of Youth's extraordinary ingredients--antioxidants--specific anti-aging vitamins and minerals that also fight against life-threatening diseases.

In research studies, people with more antioxidants in their diets had stronger immune systems, and a reduced risk of contracting infections, cancer and heart disease or of having a stroke. They even had fewer wrinkles!

Here's why. As our bodies' cells produce oxygen they also produce atoms called "free radicals." Free radicals in the right proportion are good for our bodies because they produce energy and destroy some harmful bacteria. But when we are unhealthy or not eating a balanced diet they grow out of proportion to the number our bodies can handle and they destroy healthy cells. Antioxidants actually destroy the overabundant free radicals before they cause harm.

Vitamins A, C and E and the minerals selenium, zinc and copper are especially potent antioxidants. Vitamin C even forms collagen, and beauty experts suggest applying a vitamin C-based beauty serum to your face (after washing and before moisturizing) to smooth and prevent wrinkles.

So eat a diet that is high in antioxidants to boost your immune system and keep you looking younger.

The Buffet of Youth's Active Ingredients

* Vegetables: broccoli, spinach, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, garlic, kale collards, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, soy.

* Fruit: berries, citrus fruits, peaches, apricots, cantaloupes, tomatoes, cranberries, pomegranate, purple grapes, watermelon.

* Meats: chicken, eggs, shellfish, lean red meats.

* Beverages: red wine, black and green teas, citrus juices.

* Miscellaneous: whole grains, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate.


source

Protect yourself against the swine flu with good nutrition

The swine flu is all over the news right now and leaving people in a panic wondering what can be done to protect against getting the illness. Good nutrition is a great place to start. Adding just a few foods to your diet can dramatically decrease your risk of getting the swine flu by building up your immune system.

Right now our population is overfed and undernourished. Meaning that people are filling up on nutritionally deficient foods, leaving their bodies malnourished and immune depressed. When your immune system isn’t supported with good nutrition your body can’t fight off bacteria and viruses as well putting you at a much greater risk of getting sick.

Foods to boost your immune system:

1) Protein: our bodies are made up of protein and in the every day wear and tear we need to keep up adequate protein intake to help our bodies re-build tissues and cells. Good sources of protein include lean meats, eggs, beans, and healthy soy products like tempeh.


2) Vitamin C: everyone knows that Vitamin C is essential to a good immune system; this is why it is frequently taken by people at the first sign of a cold. The problem is that people don’t get enough day to day and it is not stored in the body so when your stores are depleted your immune system crashes. Make sure to get Vitamin C in the foods you eat every day to keep your immune system running strong all the time. Good sources of Vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, berries, broccoli, tomatoes, and even potatoes.


3) Garlic: garlic is antimicrobial, antiviral, and antiparasitic. It is a wonderful immune enhancer. If you don’t like the taste of garlic, or don’t like smelling like garlic then take it in supplement form. Many supplements out there don’t have a taste or smell. Kyloic aged garlic extract is a great supplement.


4) Probiotics: probiotics keep our gastrointestinal (GI) system working properly. Sixty percent of our immune system lies within our GI tract, thus a healthy GI means healthy immunity. The overuse of antibiotics kills off our natural healthy gut flora and lowers our immunity, ironically. Supplementing with probiotics builds this healthy flora back up. Probiotics can be found in yogurt, fermented foods like sauerkraut and pickles, and in supplemental form.



Including these foods in your daily diet will enhance your immunity and protect you from colds and flu. The swine flu is a very real problem in our society right now and it is important to protect ourselves in the best way possible. Good nutrition is always a win-win situation for our health and the health of our families.


source