Be Well Buzz » antioxidants

Pycnogenol

BeWellBuzz — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 03:06:51 +0000

What Is Pycnogenol? Pycnogenol is a natural plant extract with a copious amount of beneficial uses, as well as having the potential, with further study, to provide relief for a multitude of debilitating diseases and disorders. Found in a very particular location, pycnogenol is derived from a Maritime pine bark, which originates exclusively, along the coast of Southwestern France, more specifically, in Les Landes de Gascognes. Pycnogenol is of a class of proanthocyanidins, known as flavanols, and is an immensely powerful anti-oxidant, especially when used in conjunction with L-arginine. Although, pycnogenol has been utilized throughout Europe since the 1980's, it has more recently become the subject of numerous scientific research studies in the, U.S. In addition, pycnogenol is now an active ingredient in over 700 different dietary supplements and cosmetic products, around the world. Pycnogenol Benefits There have been several studies as to the benefits of pycnogenol, and how it increases the vitality of people in general. For example, a study performed in Bulgaria in, 2003, that was reported in the, "Journal of Sex and Marital Therapy", revealed that patients suffering from erectile dysfunction, who used pycnogenol in conjunction with L-arginine, achieved significant improvement in their sexual performance, with absolutely no side effects. The additional benefits obtained from pycnogenol as a dietary supplement, are as follows:

Improved blood circulation.
Aids in production of nitric oxide.
Treats and prevents leg and ankle swelling.
Acts as an anti-inflammatory.
Improves retinal edema.
Improves vision in the beginning stages of diabetic retinopathy.
Increases immune system.
Helps normalize blood glucose levels and delays absorption of sugar.
Combats menopausal symptoms.
Alleviates cramps and menstrual symptoms.

The anti-inflammatory properties in pycnogenol, ultimately improve asthma and bronchitis by reducing the amount of toxins in the body's circulatory system, that cause inflammation in the lungs. Pycnogenol also improves skin condition by binding to collagen and protecting it. In addition, pycnogenol reduces free radicals in the body, that are known to break down elastin fibers in skin, which is attributed to the development of wrinkles. In essence, pycnogenol is effective in enhancing the general appearance of a person, as well as providing a more efficient circulatory system. These uses of pycnogenol have been studied and found to have a significant amount of efficacy; nevertheless, further research will be required before these benefits can be confirmed with a higher level of certainty. Are There Any Potentially Harmful Pycnogenol Side Effects? It is very fortunate indeed, that thus far, side effects from the use of pycnogenol have shown to be mild. It is recommended by most health professionals to take pycnogenol with or after meals, in order to prevent any kind of stomach upset or discomfort. People suffering from diabetes may need to be monitored closely by their physician if taking pycnogenol, because of the possibility of altering blood glucose levels;however, if implemented properly, pycnogenol can be quite useful in maintaining adequate sugar levels. Pycnogenol can also be harmful to those people with bleeding disorders or people taking medications that increase the risk of bleeding, dosages of such medications may need to be adjusted. Pregnant women are not advised to take pycnogenol, due to the lack of scientific research on the effects of such usage. Some additional known side effects, include:

Gas, bloating, and swelling of the abdomen.
Constipation or incomplete bowel movements.
Nausea or vomiting.
Severe abdominal pain(less common).
Kidney stones.
Increased calcium in the blood.

The above mentioned side effects are usually experienced in a mild form, and only with a small percentage of people. The possible dangers of pycnogenol seem to be related to drug interactions, as opposed to side effects from pycnogenol, on it's own. There is a significant amount of other medications that should be avoided while taking pycnogenol, or only used while under the supervision of a physician. Some examples of medications that may need to be avoided, or adjusted, are as follows:

Oral calcium.
Chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine.
Oral iron supplements.
Calcium channel blockers.
Blood-pressure lowering medications.

In conclusion, it appears that pycnogenol has a vast array of benefits, with only a few, mild-moderate side effects, which means that use of pycnogenol could prove to be quite propitious in enhancing a persons general quality of life. Furthermore, as mentioned in the above paragraphs, pycnogenol is extremely effective in treating erectile dysfunction in men, when used in conjunction with L-arginine. There are a substantial amount of research studies that are currently underway, in regards to the long-term effects of pycnogenol. It is hoped, that in the near future, pycnogenol will be confirmed as the invaluable dietary supplement that it has, thus far, proven itself to be.

Foods for a Focused Mind

BeWellBuzz — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 13:25:09 +0000

We spend countless hours focusing on our bodies. We try to eat all the right foods to stay lean and fit; we exercise to improve our body's muscle tone and we pamper ourselves, as we should, to simply look great. And while staying physically healthy is super important, we should also eat well to keep our minds as healthy as our bodies. After all, our minds are what instructs our bodies and directs our behavior. So, keeping alert, sharp and focused should be top concern. Remember the wise notion that a healthy mind leads to a healthy body. Some foods are especially perfect for keeping our mind in tip top shape so it can serve us for a long, long time. Salmon You've heart it a million times. Salmon is a superfood! In addition to providing all essential fatty acids, salmon, especially wild salmon, is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids that protect your heart, nourish your body and feed your mind. Salmon is naturally low in saturated fat and a great source of protein. The omega-3's in salmon help improve your mood, and your overall brain function to keep you focused, sharp and youthful. If it sounds like a perfect food, well, that's because it is. Blueberries These true blues aren't just a perfect handful of deliciousness. They are loaded with antioxidants, low on the glycemic index and are another super brain food. Studies have found that these tasty berries can improve short-term memory, slow down and potentially reverse brain decline associated with aging and even improve age-related loss of balance. Add a cup to your morning oatmeal, eat them as a snack in your yogurt or simply by themselves. Your mind and your taste buds will thank you. Green Tea If drinking green tea in elaborate ceremonies that preceded 12-hour meditation sessions was good enough for ancient Japanese monks, then it's good enough for us. Packed with antioxidants, green tea also contains anti-cancer and anti-aging properties as well as vitamin C and A. As far as a focused mind goes, its effects are even better than coffee: it is stimulating yet calming, which allows us to focus without the jitters. Whether you are meditating in a monastery or in a yoga class, green tea is a perfect complement to your daily grind. Raw or Dark Chocolate Made from the cacao bean, an age-old "magical" bean revered by South American civilizations, chocolate can be a perfect dessert. But this doesn't mean all chocolate is an ideal brain food. Raw chocolate or dark chocolate (75% or more) is made from minimally processed cacao beans, which have been shown to improve your mood and your cognitive abilities. Regular chocolate production refines and processes the cacao bean and adds tons of sugar and calories, so definitely stick with the raw or the dark kind. Coffee In the past, coffee has been given a bad rap, but now it is valued for its delicious health benefits. Studies show that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing liver cancer, Parkinson's disease and Type 2 diabetes. Roasted beans are loaded with antioxidants, and their energizing caffeine properties stimulate cognitive function. The amount of caffeine in brews varies but a single cup of black coffee typically delivers 95-200 milligrams. This is enough to give you an afternoon pick me up without disrupting sweet dreams at night. Nuts These little nutrition power houses pack a powerful punch. Loaded with antioxidants, vitamin E, omega 3 fatty acids, fiber and protein, nuts are a great snack to keep your mind fresh and body healthy. Studies show omega 3's in walnuts aren't only good for heart health but also for reducing stress and increasing intellectual performance. Antioxidants help protect brain cells, reducing the decline of brain function during aging. A handful of nuts paired with some dark chocolate creates a sweet treat that will make you smile every time you indulge. Source: http://healthnews.ediets.com

Fight Cancer with These Herbs

BeWellBuzz — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:19:29 +0000

Cancer is defined as an overgrowth of unhealthy or mutated cells. Conventional medical treatment for cancer includes chemotherapy and surgery. However, many natural remedies have been shown to fight cancer and protect the body from further free radical damage. Check with your health care practitioner before trying herbal remedies, and remember that herbs and other natural therapies are meant to complement, not replace traditional health care. Turmeric Turmeric, an Indian culinary spice used in curries, is your first line of defense when it comes to fighting cancer. Turmeric has been studied extensively. Its main active ingredient, curcumin has been found to actually stop the growth of cancerous cells, and act as a scavenger of free radicals. Some forms of the herb appear to work better than others, and you should take pure curcumin extract where available. Curcumin has the added benefits of preventing inflammation in the body and helping the body adapt to stress. Fresh turmeric can be added to food, or found in herbal extract and tincture form. Therapeutic dosage: Dried, powdered root: 1 - 3 g per day; standardized curcumin extract: 400 - 600 mg, 3 times per day; or fluid extract: 30 - 90 drops a day, split up into separate doses. Acai Acai berries have been prized for centuries by indigenous peoples of Central and South America for their many health benefits. They contain several chemicals which have antioxidant effects, meaning they help protect the body from the effects of oxidation and free radical damage. One recent study by the University of Florida even showed that extracts of Acai killed up to 86 percent of cancer cells in laboratory tests. Fresh acai juice is best. However, that can be hard to find outside of South America. It may also be found in frozen concentrate and liquid extract form. Therapeutic dosage: 500mg acai extract supplement taken daily is considered the standard. Some acai advocates say that between 1,000 to 4,000mg of acai, or 4 ounces of puree, taken daily is ideal. Check with your health care provider for the amount that is right for you. Alfalfa After beginning a cancer-fighting regimen with herbs such as Acai and turmeric, the next step is fortifying the body with proper nutrition. Alfalfa is considered a restorative herb, meaning it helps strengthen the body nutritionally. It aids in the assimilation of many nutrients, including calcium and iron, as well as protein and carbohydrates. It is sometimes used by herbalists to treat anemia, stimulate the appetite and combat fatigue. It is specifically used for cancer patients as it helps protect the body against the effects of chemotherapy. It is also being studied as an adjunct treatment for HIV and other wasting diseases. Fresh alfalfa sprouts can be added to salads and other dishes. Alfalfa extract can also be found in dried leaf and tincture, or liquid extract form. Therapeutic dosage: Between 500 and 1,000 mg of alfalfa leaf extract, or 1-2 mL of alfalfa tincture daily. Ginger An unfortunate side effect of chemotherapy is nausea and vomiting. To combat these effects, take ginger root. It can be consumed as an herbal tea or taken in dried powder form. It stops nausea and vomiting, and has the added benefit of alleviating pain. For best results, use fresh ginger root from your local market. Therapeutic dosage: One to two slices made into an herbal tea, three to four times daily, or as needed. For dried extract, take as much as 4 grams daily. Soy Soy has long been recognized for its health benefits. It is used as both food and medicine. The soy bean is naturally rich in both a quality protein and cancer-fighting antioxidants. It also provides a way for you to fight cancer without adding another pill or liquid supplement to your daily regimen. Soy can be consumed as a milk substitute, while tempeh and tofu can be added to soups, stir-fries and other tasty dishes. Roasted soy nuts also make a healthy snack. Therapeutic dosage:There are no therapeutic guidelines for soy, but many consume as much as a cup of soy foods daily without adverse effects. Some soy crops are grown with harmful pesticides however. So, look for organic products where available. Considerations All of the above steps are of no value if the cancer-causing elements in your life are not removed. If you smoke or use tobacco products (which have been proven to cause cancer) - stop immediately! Eliminate stimulants and other harmful substances such as coffee, refined foods and alcohol, from your diet as much as possible. Begin to incorporate more chemical-free and eco-friendly products into your life. As you do so, over time you will be able to let go of many of the chemical laden products that have been such as integral part of industrialized societies. Source: http://www.altmedicinezone.com

Antioxidants May Boost Your Baby’s Health

BeWellBuzz — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 14:08:25 +0000

Following a high-fat, high-carb diet during pregnancy may threaten your baby's health, a recent animal-based study^[1] from the journal Diabetes suggests. In tests on rats, scientists discovered that loading up on fats and carbs while pregnant may increase the child's risk of obesity^[2] and diabetes^[3]. However, the study also showed that antioxidants^[4] may shield children from such health risks. For the study, researchers fed one group of rats a high-fat, high-carb diet meant to mimic the typical "Western-style" eating habits of many Americans. A second group was given a more balanced diet, while a third group followed a Western-style diet supplemented with antioxidant vitamins. Finally, a fourth group was a fed a balanced diet enriched with antioxidants. Results revealed that offspring of rats in the first group had higher levels of inflammation^[5], more body fat, and an increased risk of blood-sugar abnormalities (compared to rats given a balanced diet). However, the study also showed that rats fed the antioxidant-enhanced Western-style diet had offspring with lower inflammation levels, no obesity, and better glucose tolerance. It's too soon to tell whether antioxidants might have the same effect in humans. If you're considering the use of any dietary supplement while pregnant, make sure to talk to your doctor before you start taking the supplements. References^{^} study (diabetes.diabetesjournals.org)^{^} obesity (altmedicine.about.com)^{^} diabetes (altmedicine.about.com)^{^} antioxidants (altmedicine.about.com)^{^} inflammation (altmedicine.about.com)^{^}

Walnuts are top nut for heart-healthy antioxidants

BeWellBuzz — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 07:29:34 +0000

A new scientific study positions walnuts in the number one slot among a family of foods that lay claim to being among Mother Nature's most nearly perfect packaged foods: Tree and ground nuts. In a report given in Anaheim, California at the 241st National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society on March 27, scientists presented an analysis showing that walnuts have a combination of more healthful antioxidants and higher quality antioxidants than any other nut.

"Walnuts rank above peanuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios and other nuts," said Joe Vinson, Ph.D., who did the analysis. "A handful of walnuts contains almost twice as much antioxidants as an equivalent amount of any other commonly consumed nut. But unfortunately, people don't eat a lot of them. This study suggests that consumers should eat more walnuts as part of a healthy diet." Vinson noted that nuts in general have an unusual combination of nutritional benefits -- in addition those antioxidants -- wrapped into a convenient and inexpensive package. Nuts, for instance, contain plenty of high-quality protein that can substitute for meat; vitamins and minerals; dietary fiber; and are dairy- and gluten-free. Years of research by scientists around the world link regular consumption of small amounts of nuts or peanut butter with decreased risk of heart disease, certain kinds of cancer, gallstones, Type 2 diabetes, and other health problems. Despite all the previous research, scientists until now had not compared both the amount and quality of antioxidants found in different nuts, Vinson said. He filled that knowledge gap by analyzing antioxidants in nine different types of nuts: walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, macadamias, and pecans. Walnuts had the highest levels of antioxidants. Vinson also found that the quality, or potency, of antioxidants present in walnuts was highest among the nuts. Antioxidants in walnuts were 2-15 times as potent as vitamin E, renowned for its powerful antioxidant effects that protect the body against damaging natural chemicals involved in causing disease. "There's another advantage in choosing walnuts as a source of antioxidants," said Vinson, who is with the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. "The heat from roasting nuts generally reduces the quality of the antioxidants. People usually eat walnuts raw or unroasted, and get the full effectiveness of those antioxidants." If nuts are so healthful and nutritious, why don't people eat more? Vinson's research shows, for instance, that nuts account for barely 8 percent of the daily antioxidants in the average person's diet. Many people, he said, may not be aware that nuts are such a healthful food. Others may be concerned about gaining weight from a food so high in fat and calories. But he points out that nuts contain healthful polyunsaturated and monosaturated fats rather than artery-clogging saturated fat. As for the calories, eating nuts does not appear to cause weight gain and even makes people feel full and less likely to overeat. In a 2009 U. S. study, nut consumption was associated with a significantly lower risk of weight gain and obesity. Still, consumers should keep the portion size small. Vinson said it takes only about 7 walnuts a day, for instance, to get the potential health benefits uncovered in previous studies. References^{^} American Chemical Society (www.acs.org)^{^} EurekAlert! (www.eurekalert.org)

9 Health Benefits of Asparagus

BeWellBuzz — Tue, 01 Mar 2011 23:15:20 +0000

Anti-Inflammatory Asparagus contains many anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as asparagus saponins and the flavonoids quercetin, rutin, laempferol and isorhamnetin, which all help to combat arthritis, asthma, and autoimmune diseases. Antioxidants Glutathione, found in asparagus, contains three amino acids (glumatic acid, glycine and cysteine) that combine into one molecule that serves as a powerful oxidation-reduction agent in our bodies. Along with the antioxidants vitamin C, vitamin A (beta-carotene), zinc, manganese and selenium, the glutathione in asparagus fights against free radicals that cause aging and "cellular rust." Cancer It is well-known that chronic inflammation and oxidation of the body's cells can lead to a variety of different cancers. With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, asparagus is a robust fighter against bladder, breast, colon, lung, prostate, ovarian and other cancers. Heart Health Folate, a B complex vitamin, is essential for a healthy cardiovascular system and is found in abundance in asparagus (one cup contains 66% of the RDA of folate). Firstly, it is involved in a biochemical event called the methylation cycle, which allows for the proper transcription of DNA, the transformation of norepinephrine to adrenalin and the transformation of serotonin to melatonin. Secondly, folate regulates the amino acid homocysteine, which in high levels can be a strong risk factor in heart disease. And finally, B vitamins such as choline, biotin, and pantothenic acid manage our blood sugar levels by effectively metabolizing sugars and starches. Birth Defects Folate is also essential for proper cellular division. Healthy servings of asparagus can prevent a folate-deficiency, which has been linked to birth defects such as spina bifida (a congenital defect in which the spinal cord is exposed through a gap in the backbone). Diuretic The amino acid asparagine, found in asparagus, is an effective diuretic and has been historically used to treat swelling, arthritis, rheumatism, and PMS-related water retention. Diet and Digestion Inulin, a carbohydrate in asparagus, encourages the growth of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli, two bacteria that boost nutrient absorption, lower the risk of allergy and colon cancer, and help prevent unfriendly bacteria from taking hold in our intestinal tract. Furthermore, one cup of asparagus contains over 11% of the RDA of dietary fiber and almost 10% of the RDA of protein. The healthy fiber and protein content of asparagus stabilizes our digestion, curbs overeating, maintains a low blood sugar and prevents constipation. And finally, one cup of asparagus also contains only 43 calories. Vitamin K Asparagus is an excellent source of vitamin K (providing 114% of the RDA in one cup), which is necessary for the synthesis of osteocalcin, a protein that strengthens the composition of our bones. Furthermore, vitamin K prevents calcium build-up in our tissue that can lead to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke. Vitamin C As mentioned above, asparagus contains a healthy dose of the strong antioxidant vitamin C (over 30% of the RDA). Other health benefits associated with vitamin C are a lower blood pressure, healthy immune system, and resistance to age-related ocular diseases, such as cataracts and muscular degeneration. References^{^} Asparagus and Urine Odor (www.healthdiaries.com)^{^} Asparagus (www.healthdiaries.com)^{^}