Health Tips » proteins

What are different health benefits of Dandelions?

ashish — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 17:18:38 +0000

Dandelions are also known as Taraxacum Officinale. The meaning of the name is that it is the Official Remedy for Disorders. Dandelion is commonly known as a flower which is used in decorations but its medicinal values and health benefits are unknown. Although there are many varieties of dandelion present but the one which is most commonly used is the Taraxacum Officinale. Dandelions originate from Greece and since ancient times it is used as a very useful herb for curing many purposes. Dandelions contain components like beta carotene a great source of Vitamin A, iron, calcium, potassium, fiber, magnesium, Vitamin B, phosphorus, riboflavin, thiamine and proteins. Following are some useful health benefits and medicinal properties of dandelion:

- Dandelions are very nutritious and help in maintain a very good health. Dandelions contain sodium in a rich amount and therefore it is beneficial for liver problems especially the liver inflammations. There have been researches done, which indicate that the nutrition content of dandelion is excellent and is very beneficial for the human organism. The content of vitamin C and Luteolin in dandelion is good for the proper functioning of the liver and prevents liver from suffering from hemorrhage.

- Dandelions are great supplements for maintaining a healthy skin. They are used to treat many skin problems like rashes on skin, eczema, ringworms and acne. For treating these skin problems, the milk of the dandelion is used. The milk of the dandelion is alkaline in nature and has properties of an anti fungal, anti germicide and anti insecticide agent. For treating acne dandelion juice is used.

- The juice of dandelion contains properties to act like a diuretic, anti oxidant, stimulant and also a detoxifier, therefore applying the dandelion juice or the sap on the acne affected skin can cure it very effectively and quickly.

- Dandelion can be used for the treatment of cataract. For this treatment a mixture of the leaves, flowers, roots and stalks of the dandelion plant is boiled in some water for about 20 to 25 minutes and then with this water after being cooled down, wash the area surrounding your eyes. This can be done for about 5 times in a day.

- The tonic extracted from dandelions can be of great help for health. Dandelion is also helpful in increasing your appetite as it helps to stimulate your hunger and it also acts as a good remedy for the patients suffering from dyspeptic problems.

- Dandelion is very helpful in weight loss management. Dandelion helps us to excrete the extra fats stored in our urine through urination. It stimulates the urination process and therefore makes us frequently urinate and as a result all the fats stored in our urine are thrown out of the body. When the fats are removed from the body then automatically the body will lose weight. Hence dandelion is a great source of weight loss.

- Dandelion is very rich in fibers. Fibers are very essential for maintaining the cholesterol level in your body. It helps lower the cholesterol level and also helps in treating diabetes. The juice extracted from dandelion is very good for diabetic patients and it lowers the blood sugar level in a diabetic patient by maintaining a balance in insulin production. As a diuretic agent, dandelion makes the diabetic patient urinate frequently which results in the excretion of extra sugars from the body.

- Dandelions are very good for treating many heart diseases and also different types of cancers. The high content anti oxidants in dandelion help the body reduce the free radicals which cause cancer in a person.

Boron which helps in tumor, cysts. Copper which converts iron into haemoglobin

ashish — Tue, 03 May 2011 16:04:28 +0000

Boron is considered to be an essential mineral that is used by the plants. Boron is not found alone, it is always found in combination with other chemicals. It is considered to be a non-metallic element. It is absorbed through intestine and excreted in urine. The functions of boron in body include:
- regulate the use of calcium.
- regulate the use of phosphorous.
- regulate the use of magnesium.
- it controls growth of the cells.
- Growth abnormalities are prevented.
The deficiency of boron can result in tumors, cysts and abnormal growth. The main sources of boron are fruits, vegetables like carrots, apples, pears.

Many enzymes constitute of copper and found in combination with many proteins. Copper is absorbed at the duodenum level of intestine. When copper is in excess, it is excreted in bile. The main functions of copper are:
- it converts iron into hemoglobin.
- the growth of red blood cells is stimulated.
- essential mineral for vitamin C.
- part of digestive enzyme.
The deficiency of copper can cause:
- weakness.
- problems in digestion.
- problems in respiration.
- chronic diarrhea which later develops into anemia in infants.
Failure of copper absorption leads to:
- mental retardation
- failure to change hair that has become brittle.
- low concentration in plasma and liver.
- prevent arthritis.
- strengthens muscular system.
Some good sources of copper are molluscs and shellfish, betel leaves arecanuts and other nuts. The content of copper is more in soft water than hard water. Similarly, tap water has a higher copper content than the water in the reservoir, which in turn, is a better source of copper than stream water.
If copper is taken into excess, it can be poisonous and can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea with some abdominal pain.

Some facts about vegetarianism, its types, advantages and disadvantages of vegetarian diet.

ashish — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 14:55:31 +0000

Vegetarianism facts include the types of vegetarianism and vegetarianism pros and cons in regards to its health benefits.

TYPES OF VEGETARIANS

- Vegans only eat food that comes from a plant.
- Lacto Vegetarians do not eat meat or eggs but they do eat dairy products.
- Ovo Vegetarians do not eat meat or dairy products but they do eat eggs.
- Lacto-ovo Vegetarians do not eat meat but they do eat eggs and dairy products.
- Pesco Vegetarians eat fish, eggs, and dairy products. They do not eat red or poultry.
- Fruitarians eat only fruits, nuts and seeds. They do not eat meat, eggs, dairy products, or the roots of any plants such as carrots.
- Pollo-Vegetarians eat poultry, such as chicken, turkey, and duck.

ADVANTAGES OF A VEGETARIAN DIET

- Vegetarian diets are low in calories. Not all vegetarian diets are low in calories.
- Vegetarian diets are high in fiber.
- Research has shown that a low-fat vegetarian diet helps to stop progression of coronary artery disease or prevent it altogether.
- Health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, gallstones, kidney stones are much less common in vegetarians.
- A vegetarian diet relies on beans and lentils for its source of proteins.
- Soy products, such as tofu and tempeh, are used to provide isoflavins, such as genistein and daidzein, which help to diminish bone loss, inhibit tumor growth and lower cholesterol.
- Vegetarians develop strong immunity in them.
- Green leafy vegetables have ample supply of calcium.

ADVANTAGES OF NON-VEGETARIAN DIET WHICH IS NOT FOUND IN VEGETARIAN DIET

- Vegetarians face inadequate intake of proteins and B12.
- B12 on the other hand cannot be sourced from plants, only from animals, hence a vegetarian needs to eat foods that have been fortified with B12 vitamins, this is especially recommended for vegetarian children.
- The essential amino acids that the body requires are contained in a diet rich with red meat.
- Red meat contains very high quantities of iron as compared to vegetarian diet.
- The phosphorus content of meat is much more easily absorbed than the phosphorus in cereals and legumes.
- Vitamin D is not found in a plant based diet.

What are different health benefits of whole peppercorns ?

ashish — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 11:40:54 +0000

Peppercorns, scientifically known as Piper nigrum, is a very popular seasoning used throughout the world. It is indispensable from our kitchen and the dinning table. Since ancient times, pepper has been used to add that extra bit of taste to food not just because of its taste but also because of it innumerable health benefits.

Peppercorn is rich in proteins and minerals like calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium and zinc. Pepper is also rich in Vitamin A, B, C, E and K. Pepper also contains some amount of fats and dietary fiber. All of these components of pepper make it invaluable for maintaining good health. Some of the important reasons why pepper is a must in our diets are discussed below.

Anti inflammatory
Peppercorns have been used since ages as anti inflammatory agent. One of the commonly known health benefit of whole peppercorns is that it helps in reducing pains and is a popular medication given to cure throat infection and cough. Due to its strong and spicy taste it helps immensely in treating colds and flu.

Digestion
The presence of pepper in the food allows easy digestion and absorption of nutrients. It has been observed that pepper increases the absorption of selenium and Vitamin B and Vitamin A from food, these are essential nutrients required by the body. Moreover, easy absorption of food allows easy motility in the gastro intestinal tract. Pepper is also know for its carminative property and helps in avoiding gas or flatulence.

Cardiovascular heath
Pepper is rich in potassium, one of the various minerals found in pepper. Potassium is an essential mineral required by the body to maintain the fluid levels. Potassium helps in maintaining blood pressure and also helps in controlling the heart rate.

Blood
Pepper is also a rich source of iron which is an important mineral required to maintain hemoglobin level in blood. Deficiency of iron may lead to anemia causing breathlessness and weakness. Hemoglobin is that part of the blood which carries oxygen to different parts in the body.

Antioxidant
Pepper is a rich source of Manganese. Manganese is an essential cofactor required by the enzyme superoxide dimutase which helps in removing free radicals. Apart from manganese, peppercorns are also rich source of vitamin A and C which are again active antioxidants which in getting rid of the harmful free radicals from the body which may otherwise lead to the formation of cancer cells in the body.

Anti microbial
The pepper corns are popularly used for their antimicrobial properties. They are anti bacterial in nature which helps in getting rid of any bacterial infection in the body .Pepper also helps in removing intestinal parasites. Due to the anti inflammatory and antiseptic nature of pepper corns it is also used in dental treatment for tooth decay and gum swellings or ulcers.

Sinusitis
Pepper corns are also used in the relieving sinusitis. Peppercorns help by drying the mucus membranes and stopping the further build up of mucus thus reliving of blocked sinuses.

There are various other heath benefits of whole peppercorns which through the ages have helped in keeping health disorders at bay. Although research is being conducted to understand it further, many health claims are baser on clinical experiences rather than scientific data.

Various Benefits of Milk for Human Body…

ashish — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:36:40 +0000

The benefits of milk to the human body are manifold mainly because it consists of some the most essential nutrients required to the human body. No wonder it is also known as a complete food.
Milk is not only a rich source of calcium; it also contains other minerals like magnesium, Phosphorous, Potassium, selenium and zinc. Apart from these, milk also contains carbohydrates in the form of lactose, proteins in the form of casein, fats and Vitamins A, B, D, E and K.
To better understand the benefits of milk to the human body we will have to understand the function of the various nutrients in milk and the impacts of their deficiency in the human body.
Milk is an easy and rich source of calcium. The most important requirement of calcium is for the development of the teeth and bones. It is not only children who require calcium for the development of their bones during their growing stages but is also required by an adult to help maintain bone density. A proper intake of calcium helps avoid osteoporosis a condition where the density of the bones reduces increasing the risk of fractures. This is commonly seen in women after the menopause due to hormonal changes. Calcium is also indispensable for other metabolic activities in the human body. It s presence allows the timely coagulation of blood to avoid excessive loss of blood from wounds. Recent research has also shown that calcium helps maintaining blood pressure by lowering cholesterol levels. Calcium also plays a vital role in muscle and nerve function in addition to controlling the rate at which the heart beats.
The vitamins present in milk can be divided into two forms based on its solubility: fat soluble and water soluble. Vitamins A, D, E and K are fat soluble while vitamin B is water soluble. The content of the fat soluble vitamins in milk is dependent on the content of fat in it.
Of these, Vitamin D is very essential as it helps in the absorption of Calcium into the bones. Vitamin B helps to maintain the nervous system and also to form Red Blood cells. Its deficiency can lead to anemia and degeneration of the nervous system. This essential vitamin is rich in meat and eggs and for the vegetarians; Milk is the best source for this nutrient.
Vitamin A, also call as retinol, is essential for the good health of the eyes its deficiency can lead to dryness in eyes eventually leading into blindness. Night blindness is another disease caused due to its deficiency. As it is fat soluble skimmed milk may not contain adequate amount of this essential vitamin.
Vitamin E is fat soluble and is often associated with cell membranes. Vitamin E along with Selenium also acts as an antioxidant reducing the peroxides produced in the body. It also helps in preventing the degradation of polyunsaturated fats. Its deficiency can lead to poor fat metabolism in the body.
One of the important benefits of milk in the human body is Vitamin k. vitamin K is fat soluble and is required in the formation of the coagulating components in blood prothombin and factor VII. Its deficiency can lead to increase in the time taken for blood coagulation leading to hemorrhages and excessive loss of blood from wounds. Vitamin k deficiency can also lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
Milk also contains proteins in the form of casein which is essential for the nursing young. It also contains lactose which is a substantial source of energy for the lactating young. It is a disaccharide which can be easily broken to its simpler forms glucose and galactose which can be easily absorbed by the human body to produce energy.
Thus, considering all the benefits of milk to the human body, it can be indeed be considered as a complete food as it not only provides with nourishment but also provides the body with those micronutrients required for the various metabolic activities in the body.

Reasons why ALMONDS are so beneficial and amazing….

ashish — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 10:02:15 +0000

Almonds conjures up visions of health, beauty, food and a lifestyle. Almonds are not a rich man’s indulgence; they are woven into the very fabric of Indian cuisine, even more so in Indian life itself. The reasons are simple.
- Almonds are packed with nutrients and complements virtually every food with its characteristic mild taste.
- Almonds are rich in quality nutrients such as protein and mono unsaturated fat.
- Eating almonds does not necessarily lead to weight gain. rather, they play a crucial role in weight management because of their effect on appetite satiety.
- Almonds can be used in various ways like sliced, diced, roasted, blanched or flavored. You can munch on almonds any way you like.
- Eating almonds with their brown skin also provides dietary fiber and powerful antioxidants that help defend your body from free radicals.
- A handful of almonds a day is a perfect, healthy snack for the whole family, whether on the go or at play.
- Almonds can be eaten throughout the day.
- Almonds can become an eating routine to overcome post pregnancy stress and weakness.
- Almonds may help protect against lifestyle diseases.
- California almonds are cholesterol free and low in saturated fat, making them a tempting option for smarter meals and snacks.
- Almonds can also help in maintaining a healthy heart with healthy cholesterol levels.
- Almonds may help reduce LDL or bad cholesterol as part of a diet low in saturated fat.
- Almonds help in regulating blood pressure.
- The fibre in almonds has a detoxifying effect and prevents cancer.
- Almonds also have a stabilizing effect on sugar and insulin levels after meals, offering protection from diabetes.
- Eating just four to five almonds every day will prevent constipation.
- Almonds are rich in manganese, riboflavin, and copper, all of which aid in energy production.
- Almonds contain folic acid, a proven defence against birth defects.
- Almonds improve brainpower.

9 solid reasons why one should not give up carbohydrates completely?

ashish — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:28:59 +0000

Cutting on chips, cookies, candy and other carbohydrates from the diet can help you loose weight but laying your carbohydrates completely can cause you some problems like:

Slower Metabolism
Fueling muscles with carbohydrates helps you get through exhausting fat-loss routines. The body needs a decent supply of carbohydrates post work out to keep that burn going as long as possible.
- Lousy Attitude
Too low carbohydrate intake is not only bad for the body but it is also bad for your spirit. Extremely low carbohydrate diet negatively impacts your mood.
- Laziness
Carbohydrates provides your muscles with glycogen that you need when you are going to gym. You may feel weaker and more apathetic about training hard.
- Less Hunger
Slow digesting carbohydrates like oatmeal take longer to enter your blood stream and help satisfy the appetite much better than the junk food.
- Speedy Recovery
Opt for a small meal of protein and carbohydrates 30 to 60 minutes after training as the body needs carbohydrates to repair the muscles and get stronger. The body needs nutrients to replenish, rebuild, and repair muscle tissue for next workout.
- Trimmer Bottom line
Reduced calorie diets, whether carbohydrate predominant or carbohydrate poor, all produced similar weight loss results.
- Stupidity
Going too low on carbohydrates can impair and affect brain function and reduces the ability to concentrate properly.
- Weight is regained
- Vitamin Deficiencies
A low carbohydrate diet can cause a deficiency in several vitamin types. Starchy grains produce B vitamins like folic acid. A lack of folic acid can be bad for the heart as well as for pregnant women.
Lack of Fiber
Most low carbohydrate diets encourage people to eat foods that are not fiber rich, leading to an increase in constipation.

When carbohydrates are in short supply, your body doesn’t just turn to fats for energy but also protein (muscle), breaking it down and turning it into glucose.

Iron – Important Element that is necessary for purifying blood

ashish — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:52:20 +0000

Iron is a mineral found in every cell of the body. Iron is considered an essential mineral because it is needed to make part of blood cells. The hemoglobin content of red blood cells is made up of certain proteins and iron. The normal body of an adult contains about 4 to 5 g of iron.

Iron stores in the liver, spleen, and bone marrow. Small amounts of iron are found in the muscles as myoglobin, as also in the blood serum and in every cell as a constituent of certain enzymes. the stores of iron as well as the iron released from the disintegration of red blood cells available to the body for the synthesis of hemoglobin.

The main sites of absorption are the stomach and the upper part of the small intestine. Absorption of iron is enhanced when there is deficiency of iron in the body or there is need for increased blood formation. Iron is excreted along with the bile, stools, scaling of the skin, and sweating. It is important to take an extra quantity of iron-rich foods during summer to compensate the iron loss.

Hemoglobin is composed of four iron-containing heme groups. The heme is responsible for the characteristic color and the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. Myoglobin is an oxygen carrying protein containing iron in the muscle tissue is related to blood hemoglobin in both structure and function.

FUNCTION OF IRON IN HUMAN BODY

- Iron is necessary for production of hemoglobin.
- Iron is necessary for brain development and function.
- Iron enables the blood to carry oxygen throughout the body and helps in removing carbon dioxide from tissues.
- Iron increases resistance to stress and disease.
- Iron aids growth and prevents fatigue.
- Iron forms an important part of many proteins and enzymes that help the human body function efficiently.

CAUSES OF IRON DEFICIENCY IN HUMAN BODY

Iron deficiency is caused by:
- Severe blood loss.
- Malnutrition.
- Infections.
- Excessive use of drugs and chemicals.
Severe blood loss can occur due to:
- major injury to blood vessels.
- rupture of aneurysms.
- perforation of internal organs.
- incomplete abortion.
- severe menstrual bleeding.
- repeated pregnancies.
- prolonged breast feeding.
- excessive sweating also reduce the iron content .

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS OF IRON IN HUMAN BODY

- Nutritional anemia.
- Lower resistance to disease.
- General run down condition.
- Pale complexion.
- Shortness of breath.
- Loss of interest in sex.
- Mental depression and irritability.
- Mind becomes dull.

FOOD SOURCES RICH IN IRON

- Whole grain cereals.
- Pulses and legumes.
- Fish.
- Green leafy vegetables such as dry lotus stems, cauliflower greens, turnip greens.
- Fruits like black currants, water melons, raisins, and dried dates.
- Enzymes and hydrochloric acid in stomach are needed for proper assimilation of iron.
- Seeds like almonds and brazil nuts.

Non-Essential Amino Acids – Ornithine, Proline, Taurine, Tyrosine

ashish — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 19:20:56 +0000

Ornithine is a non essential amino acid. It is an important constituent of the urea cycle. It is also the precursor of other amino acids such as citrulline, glutamic acid, and proline. It enhances the functioning of the liver and is used to treat hepatic coma. The immune system is simulated improving the immunity to bacteria, viruses, and tumors but still there is no proven ability.

Proline is a non essential amino acid is one of the main components of collagen, the cementing substance that binds and supports the cells. Its effectiveness is enhanced when combined with vitamin C.

Taurine is a non essential amino acid that is manufactured in the body and is present in animal protein. Its synthesis occurs in the human body with the help of amino acids methionine, cysteine, and vitamin B6. Women seem to require a higher dietary intake of taurine since the female hormone estradiol suppresses the formation of taurine in the liver. It plays a role as a neurotransmitter. It also maintains the correct composition of bile and the solubility of cholesterol. Taurine also protects the heart muscle when there is calcium and potassium loss from the body. Heart disorders, physical or emotional stress, metabolic disorders, high alcohol consumption and zinc deficiency are factors that result in high levels of taurine being excreted in the urine.

Tyrosine is a non essential amino acid and is popularly called the anti-stress amino acid. It is derived from phenylalanine, an essential amino acid. It is an essential component of the thyroid hormone. Tyrosine provides raw material from which the body makes the hormones thyroxine and adrenaline. The pigment of the skin and hair, melanin is also derived from tyrosine. Deficiency of tyrosine can lead to low body temperature, low blood pressure and a restless feeling in the legs. It is also beneficial in the treatment of depression. The main sources are rice, leafy vegetables, curd, cheese and milk.

Gama Aminobutyric Acid(GABA), Glutamine and Glutamic Acid, Glutathione, Glycine

ashish — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:51:48 +0000

Gama Aminobutyric Acid(GABA)
It is a non essential amino acid derived from glutamic acid. It regulates the transmission of chemical impulses in the central nervous system and is, therefore, essential for brain metabolism. It is used in the treatment of epilepsy and hypertension, it induces calmness and tranquility. It is useful in reducing problems related to an enlarged prostate, by stimulating the release of the hormone prolactin from the pituitary gland.

Glutamine and Glutamic Acid
Glutamine is a non-essential amino acid. Glutamine is synthesized in certain tissues for use in others. Glutamic acid can be synthesized from a number of amino acids. Glutamine along with glucose, is a fuel for the brain cells. The second function of glutamine is to act as a detoxifier of ammonia from the brain. As it picks up ammonia, glutamic acid is reconverted to its original form of glutamine. It also plays an important role in the metabolism of ammonia. It plays a protective role in the body’s relationship with alcohol.
Glutamine deficiencies result in brain damage or dullness of brain due to excess ammonia.

Glutathione
It is a naturally occurring tripeptide consisting of three amino acids – cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It is of great use in the prevention and treatment of many de-generative diseases. It accomplishes this by preventing and slowing down the activity of free radicals which suppress the body’s natural immunity and hasten the ageing process. Liver damage caused by excessive intake of alcohol is also prevented by glutathione.

Glycine
It is another non essential amino acid which is a major constituent of the liver-detoxifying compound glutathione, along with cysteine and glutamic acid. It has been found in research that
glycine enhances the secretion of acid in the stomach.