What is Milk Thistle
The liver plays a vital role in metabolizing fats, carbohydrates and proteins. It continually operates to keep the body cleansed of toxins. Milk thistle, a powerful antioxidant, has long been used to promote healthy, vibrant liver function. It is maninly used to cleanse and maintain the liver but also to support the production of new liver cells and replace the old and damaged ones.
Milk Thistle Side Effects
Some rare possible side effects may include; mild abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, dyspepsia, flatulence, bloating, anorexia, headache, skin reactions, insomnia, and impotence.
Milk Thistle Research
Recent studies suggest that milk thistle may have to ability to assist in the treatment of chronic liver diseases such as; liver cirrhosis, hepatitis C, type II diabetes, toxin induced liver damage (such as factory workers exposed to harmful chemicals), mushroom poisoning, and gall bladder disorders. It has also been reported to be used as a mild laxative and an anti-inflammatory.
Milk Thistle Origin
The milk thistle plant is found growing in the wild in the warm climates of Southern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. It gets its name from white spots on its prickly leaves that secrete a white substance, hence the name "milk thistle." The seeds of the plant contain about 5% of an ingredient called silymarin. Once synthesized, the "extract" from the seeds can contain as much as 80% silymarin.
Milk Thistle Review
Milk Thistle is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants help prevent free radical damage and slow the aging process. Milk thistle in particular, has long been used to promote healthy, vibrant liver function. It may be useful for many other things and studies are currently underway to prove other health benefits.
For the best deals on milk thistle, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/health-benefits-milk-thistle
Friday, April 17, 2009
Health Benefits of Ginkgo Biloba
What is Ginkgo Biloba
Research documents ginkgo biloba to help maintain circulation to the arms, legs and even the small capillaries in the brain. It is believed this is possible because ginkgo biloba contains antioxidants known as flavonoids which protect against cell damage from free radicals. It is also believed that these flavonoids also help prevent platelet aggregation and blood clotting. By increasing blood flow to the brain it helps improve memory, attention, and concentration. Research is also underway for possible treatment for Dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Ginkgo Biloba Dosage
Ginkgo biloba supplementation usually ranges between 40-200 mg per day, consisting of high quality herbs, standardized to contain about 25% ginkgo falvone glycosides.
Ginkgo Biloba Culinary Uses
The insides of ginkgo seeds are a traditional Chinese food known as "Buddha's Delight." Many Chinese believe ginkgo nuts to have many health benefits and some even consider them to have aphrodisiac qualities. The Japanese often add ginkgo seeds to their dishes or offer them as a side dish. The seeds are available canned and can be found in many Asian food stores in the West.
For the best deals on ginkgo biloba, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/health-benefits-ginkgo-biloba
Research documents ginkgo biloba to help maintain circulation to the arms, legs and even the small capillaries in the brain. It is believed this is possible because ginkgo biloba contains antioxidants known as flavonoids which protect against cell damage from free radicals. It is also believed that these flavonoids also help prevent platelet aggregation and blood clotting. By increasing blood flow to the brain it helps improve memory, attention, and concentration. Research is also underway for possible treatment for Dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Ginkgo Biloba Dosage
Ginkgo biloba supplementation usually ranges between 40-200 mg per day, consisting of high quality herbs, standardized to contain about 25% ginkgo falvone glycosides.
Ginkgo Biloba Culinary Uses
The insides of ginkgo seeds are a traditional Chinese food known as "Buddha's Delight." Many Chinese believe ginkgo nuts to have many health benefits and some even consider them to have aphrodisiac qualities. The Japanese often add ginkgo seeds to their dishes or offer them as a side dish. The seeds are available canned and can be found in many Asian food stores in the West.
For the best deals on ginkgo biloba, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/health-benefits-ginkgo-biloba
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Health Benefits of Acai
What is Acai
It has been only recently that the acai berry had been marketed as a dietary supplement, most commonly as a weight loss product. However it has also been touted as having the ability to improve energy levels, sexual performance, digestion, skin appearance, heart health, good sleep, cholesterol levels, and detoxification capacity. Aside from being a good source of fiber and antioxidants the berries also have significant amounts of calcium, iron, vitamin A, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and some vitamin C. In a recent study acai juice had an antioxidant capacity equivalent to that of black cherry and cranberry juice and higher than that of orange juice, apple juice and tea.
Acai Origin
Acai or acai berries are from the acai palm tree. The berries have often been known for their healthful properties. The berries contain natural flavonoids and antioxidants that help enrich the vitality of the body and have recently become one of the most sought-after berries of all time. Global demand for the berries has expanded rapidly in recent years, and acai is now cultivated for that purpose primarily.
Acai Culinary Uses
The juice and pulp of acai berries are used in various juice blends, smoothies, sodas and other drinks. Acai is also traditionally served in South America with tapioca, granola, and ice cream and is also made into a liqueur.
Acai Berries
The acai berry is a small, round, black-purple drupe about 1 inch in diameter, and looks like a grape and has a single large seed about a quarter to a half inch wide. The berries are produced in branched panicles of about 700 to 900 berries. Two crops of berries are produced each year.
Acai Palm Tree
The acai palm is a species of palm tree that is native to Central and South America. These palms, usually found in exotic locales, grow mainly in swamps and floodplains. Acai palms are fast growing and reach the height of about 50 to 75 feet, the tallest sometimes reaching close to 100 feet with leaves measuring close to 10 feet long. They are cultivated for both their berries and for their superior hearts of palm. The Soft inner tip of the palm or "heart" is typically eaten in salads.
For the best deals on acai, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/health-benefits-acai
It has been only recently that the acai berry had been marketed as a dietary supplement, most commonly as a weight loss product. However it has also been touted as having the ability to improve energy levels, sexual performance, digestion, skin appearance, heart health, good sleep, cholesterol levels, and detoxification capacity. Aside from being a good source of fiber and antioxidants the berries also have significant amounts of calcium, iron, vitamin A, aspartic acid, glutamic acid, and some vitamin C. In a recent study acai juice had an antioxidant capacity equivalent to that of black cherry and cranberry juice and higher than that of orange juice, apple juice and tea.
Acai Origin
Acai or acai berries are from the acai palm tree. The berries have often been known for their healthful properties. The berries contain natural flavonoids and antioxidants that help enrich the vitality of the body and have recently become one of the most sought-after berries of all time. Global demand for the berries has expanded rapidly in recent years, and acai is now cultivated for that purpose primarily.
Acai Culinary Uses
The juice and pulp of acai berries are used in various juice blends, smoothies, sodas and other drinks. Acai is also traditionally served in South America with tapioca, granola, and ice cream and is also made into a liqueur.
Acai Berries
The acai berry is a small, round, black-purple drupe about 1 inch in diameter, and looks like a grape and has a single large seed about a quarter to a half inch wide. The berries are produced in branched panicles of about 700 to 900 berries. Two crops of berries are produced each year.
Acai Palm Tree
The acai palm is a species of palm tree that is native to Central and South America. These palms, usually found in exotic locales, grow mainly in swamps and floodplains. Acai palms are fast growing and reach the height of about 50 to 75 feet, the tallest sometimes reaching close to 100 feet with leaves measuring close to 10 feet long. They are cultivated for both their berries and for their superior hearts of palm. The Soft inner tip of the palm or "heart" is typically eaten in salads.
For the best deals on acai, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/health-benefits-acai
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Health Benefits of Green Tea Extract
What is Green Tea Extract
Green tea extract is made from green tea leaves. The leaves contain many antioxidant ingredients, mainly green tea catechins. Green tea extract has become very popular lately by those looking to prevent free radical damage to their bodies to help them look and feel young and healthy. Green tea extract is used for four primary reasons, as an antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, and anti-radiation.
Green Tea Extract Side Effects
Excessive intake of Green Tea Extract containing caffeine has side effects; a too high concentration may act as a pro-oxidant to damage DNA. Caffeine may be excluded in green tea extract supplements in order to avoid side-effects; "caffeine-free" green tea extract supplements are also available nowadays.
Green Tea Extract for Cancer
The anti-cancer properties of green tea extract have made it very popular among scientific researchers. Green tea extract showed inhibitory effects on cancer cells, as well as the ability to block the cell cycle of cancer cells and induce programmed cell death. Green tea extract has also seems to have anti-radiation properties. Although green tea extract shows great potential for anticancer capacity it is not used alone as a chemotherapy agent for cancer treatment.
Green Tea Extract as a Preservative
Because green tea extract is so high in antioxidants, scientists have been working on ways of using it as a food additive for preserving a wide variety of foods. Green tea extract is already being used as a preservative for what is called a Moon Cake. Green tea extract seems to not only increase the shelf life of the cake but also improve the flavor. In other experiments, green tea extract is being tested on its ability to prevent apple juice and other foods from microbial contamination.
Green Tea Extract for Other Uses
Green tea extract contains a wide-range of anti-inflammation characteristics, so it may be helpful in treating chronic inflammatory states. Green tea extract may also be effective in oral hygiene maintenance.
Green Tea Extract Dosage
Green tea extract supplements are produced by various manufacturers now days. Potency varies somewhat amongst green tea extract manufactures with some being a little more potent than others. It is a good idea to check for the percentage of polyphenols it contains. With most manufacturers 300mg is equivalent to about 5 cups of green tea. It is also said to be better to takegreen tea extract between meals rather than during the meal in order to avoid the decrease of iron absorption.
For the best deals on green tea extract, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-greet-tea-extract
Green tea extract is made from green tea leaves. The leaves contain many antioxidant ingredients, mainly green tea catechins. Green tea extract has become very popular lately by those looking to prevent free radical damage to their bodies to help them look and feel young and healthy. Green tea extract is used for four primary reasons, as an antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, and anti-radiation.
Green Tea Extract Side Effects
Excessive intake of Green Tea Extract containing caffeine has side effects; a too high concentration may act as a pro-oxidant to damage DNA. Caffeine may be excluded in green tea extract supplements in order to avoid side-effects; "caffeine-free" green tea extract supplements are also available nowadays.
Green Tea Extract for Cancer
The anti-cancer properties of green tea extract have made it very popular among scientific researchers. Green tea extract showed inhibitory effects on cancer cells, as well as the ability to block the cell cycle of cancer cells and induce programmed cell death. Green tea extract has also seems to have anti-radiation properties. Although green tea extract shows great potential for anticancer capacity it is not used alone as a chemotherapy agent for cancer treatment.
Green Tea Extract as a Preservative
Because green tea extract is so high in antioxidants, scientists have been working on ways of using it as a food additive for preserving a wide variety of foods. Green tea extract is already being used as a preservative for what is called a Moon Cake. Green tea extract seems to not only increase the shelf life of the cake but also improve the flavor. In other experiments, green tea extract is being tested on its ability to prevent apple juice and other foods from microbial contamination.
Green Tea Extract for Other Uses
Green tea extract contains a wide-range of anti-inflammation characteristics, so it may be helpful in treating chronic inflammatory states. Green tea extract may also be effective in oral hygiene maintenance.
Green Tea Extract Dosage
Green tea extract supplements are produced by various manufacturers now days. Potency varies somewhat amongst green tea extract manufactures with some being a little more potent than others. It is a good idea to check for the percentage of polyphenols it contains. With most manufacturers 300mg is equivalent to about 5 cups of green tea. It is also said to be better to takegreen tea extract between meals rather than during the meal in order to avoid the decrease of iron absorption.
For the best deals on green tea extract, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-greet-tea-extract
Health Benefits of Resveratrol
What is Resveratrol
Resveratrol is becoming a more popular supplement these days. It's a supplement that promotes antioxidant health by fighting against the effects of free radical damage. As a powerful antioxidant, a typical 50mg capsule or soft-gel supplies more resveratrol than you would receive from a typical bottle of red wine, and without the calories or side effects of alcohol. Some other sources of resveratrol include red and purple grape juice, cocoa and dark chocolate products.
Resveraltrol Side Effects
One study has theorized that it may stimulate the growth of human breast cancer; however, other studies have found that resveratrol actually fights breast cancer.Some studies suggest that resveratrol slows the development of blood vessels, which suppresses tumors, but also slows healing. Some retailers advise that it may interfere with oral contraceptives and that women who are pregnant or intending to become pregnant should not use the product or to be taken by children or young adults under eighteen.
Resveratrol Origin
Resveratrol the supplement is produced by chemical synthesis and is sold as a nutritional supplement derived primarily from Japanese knotweed.
Resveratrol for Life Extension
Research has shown anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, blood-sugar-lowering and other beneficial cardiovascular effects on mice. Resveratrol also extended the life of yeast, fruit flies, nematode worms and short living fish but it did not increase the life span of mice.
Using a short-lived fish with a median life span of nine weeks, they found that a maximal dose of resveratrol increased the median lifespan by about 50% and the fish also showed better swimming activity and better ability to avoid an unpleasant stimulus.
Resveratrol for Cancer
Scientists reported that topical resveratrol applications prevented the skin cancer development in mice treated with a carcinogen. There have since been dozens of studies of the anti-cancer activity of resveratrol in animal models. No results of human clinical trials for cancer have been reported. However, clinical trials to investigate the effects on colon cancer and melanoma (skin cancer) are currently recruiting patients.
Resveratrol for Alzheimer's
Recently researchers reported that dietary supplementation with resveratrol significantly reduced plaque formation in animal brains, a component of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. This is theorized that this is because resveratrol has the ability to chelate (remove) copper. It is also theorized that resveratrol may eventually be used to help reduce aging changes in the brain.
For the best deals on resveratol, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-resveratrol
Resveratrol is becoming a more popular supplement these days. It's a supplement that promotes antioxidant health by fighting against the effects of free radical damage. As a powerful antioxidant, a typical 50mg capsule or soft-gel supplies more resveratrol than you would receive from a typical bottle of red wine, and without the calories or side effects of alcohol. Some other sources of resveratrol include red and purple grape juice, cocoa and dark chocolate products.
Resveraltrol Side Effects
One study has theorized that it may stimulate the growth of human breast cancer; however, other studies have found that resveratrol actually fights breast cancer.Some studies suggest that resveratrol slows the development of blood vessels, which suppresses tumors, but also slows healing. Some retailers advise that it may interfere with oral contraceptives and that women who are pregnant or intending to become pregnant should not use the product or to be taken by children or young adults under eighteen.
Resveratrol Origin
Resveratrol the supplement is produced by chemical synthesis and is sold as a nutritional supplement derived primarily from Japanese knotweed.
Resveratrol for Life Extension
Research has shown anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, blood-sugar-lowering and other beneficial cardiovascular effects on mice. Resveratrol also extended the life of yeast, fruit flies, nematode worms and short living fish but it did not increase the life span of mice.
Using a short-lived fish with a median life span of nine weeks, they found that a maximal dose of resveratrol increased the median lifespan by about 50% and the fish also showed better swimming activity and better ability to avoid an unpleasant stimulus.
Resveratrol for Cancer
Scientists reported that topical resveratrol applications prevented the skin cancer development in mice treated with a carcinogen. There have since been dozens of studies of the anti-cancer activity of resveratrol in animal models. No results of human clinical trials for cancer have been reported. However, clinical trials to investigate the effects on colon cancer and melanoma (skin cancer) are currently recruiting patients.
Resveratrol for Alzheimer's
Recently researchers reported that dietary supplementation with resveratrol significantly reduced plaque formation in animal brains, a component of Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases. This is theorized that this is because resveratrol has the ability to chelate (remove) copper. It is also theorized that resveratrol may eventually be used to help reduce aging changes in the brain.
For the best deals on resveratol, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-resveratrol
Health Benefits of Vitamin D
What is Vitamin D
There are actually several forms of vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is produced by invertebrates, fungi, and plants in response to UV irradiation, but is not produced by vertebrates. Little is known about the biologic function of vitamin D2 in non-vertebrate species.
Vitamin D3 is made when the skin reacts with UVB ultraviolet light. Adequate amounts of vitamin D3 can be made in the skin after only ten to fifteen minutes of good sun exposure. With longer exposure to UVB rays, equilibrium is achieved, and the vitamin D3 degrades as fast as it is generated.
Vitamin D Sources
Fish, beef, and eggs are all good sources of vitamin D. Other foods that are "fortified" with vitamin D are; milk, yogurt, margarine, oil spreads, breakfast cereals, pastries, and bread.
Vitamin D for Bones
Vitamin D assists calcium for bone growth, maintenance and remodeling. Vitamin D also plays an important role in the maintenance of organ systems and in the immune system health.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency causes range from inadequate intake, inadequate sunlight, metabolic disorders, liver or kidney disorders, or rare hereditary disorders.
Vitamin D deficiency can result in impaired bone mineralization, which can lead to bone softening diseases, such as rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults and contributes to osteoporosis.
For the best deals on vitamin D, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-vitamin-d
There are actually several forms of vitamin D. Vitamin D2 is produced by invertebrates, fungi, and plants in response to UV irradiation, but is not produced by vertebrates. Little is known about the biologic function of vitamin D2 in non-vertebrate species.
Vitamin D3 is made when the skin reacts with UVB ultraviolet light. Adequate amounts of vitamin D3 can be made in the skin after only ten to fifteen minutes of good sun exposure. With longer exposure to UVB rays, equilibrium is achieved, and the vitamin D3 degrades as fast as it is generated.
Vitamin D Sources
Fish, beef, and eggs are all good sources of vitamin D. Other foods that are "fortified" with vitamin D are; milk, yogurt, margarine, oil spreads, breakfast cereals, pastries, and bread.
Vitamin D for Bones
Vitamin D assists calcium for bone growth, maintenance and remodeling. Vitamin D also plays an important role in the maintenance of organ systems and in the immune system health.
Vitamin D Deficiency
Vitamin D deficiency causes range from inadequate intake, inadequate sunlight, metabolic disorders, liver or kidney disorders, or rare hereditary disorders.
Vitamin D deficiency can result in impaired bone mineralization, which can lead to bone softening diseases, such as rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults and contributes to osteoporosis.
For the best deals on vitamin D, please click on the link in my related article on squidoo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-vitamin-d
Health Benefits of Turmeric
What is Turmeric
Turmeric is a supplement from the turmeric plant. The plant has what are called flavonoids or curcuminoids, which are plant-based antioxidants beneficial to the fight against free radical damage in the body. Research activity into turmeric is exploding, and in 2004 supplement sales increased 35%. Also, because of its many benefits, studies are now underway as for a possible treatment for pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, Alzheimer's, and colorectal cancer.
Turmeric Origin
Turmeric or the "turmeric plant" is a plant native to the tropical parts of South Asia. Most often found in China, Indonesia, Viet Nam and Cambodia. Turmeric thrives best in warm, moist climates with a constant temperature of between 20° C and 30° C, and considerable amounts of annual rainfall.
Turmeric Health Benefits
Turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties. In Asia it is used as an antiseptic, antibacterial and an anti-inflammatory. It is also used for stomach problems, gastrointestinal discomfort and other digestive disorders. Turmeric is also used in some sunscreens and superfluous hair creams. In the West it is generally accepted as a powerful antioxidant and used to help prevent against free radical damage in order try to stay looking and feeling young and healthy.
For the best deals on turmeric supplements, please click on the link in my related article on squiddo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-turmeric-curcumin
Turmeric is a supplement from the turmeric plant. The plant has what are called flavonoids or curcuminoids, which are plant-based antioxidants beneficial to the fight against free radical damage in the body. Research activity into turmeric is exploding, and in 2004 supplement sales increased 35%. Also, because of its many benefits, studies are now underway as for a possible treatment for pancreatic cancer, multiple myeloma, Alzheimer's, and colorectal cancer.
Turmeric Origin
Turmeric or the "turmeric plant" is a plant native to the tropical parts of South Asia. Most often found in China, Indonesia, Viet Nam and Cambodia. Turmeric thrives best in warm, moist climates with a constant temperature of between 20° C and 30° C, and considerable amounts of annual rainfall.
Turmeric Health Benefits
Turmeric is thought to have many medicinal properties. In Asia it is used as an antiseptic, antibacterial and an anti-inflammatory. It is also used for stomach problems, gastrointestinal discomfort and other digestive disorders. Turmeric is also used in some sunscreens and superfluous hair creams. In the West it is generally accepted as a powerful antioxidant and used to help prevent against free radical damage in order try to stay looking and feeling young and healthy.
For the best deals on turmeric supplements, please click on the link in my related article on squiddo: http://www.squidoo.com/danecramer-turmeric-curcumin
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
