GREEN TEA

Green tea is made from unfermented leaves and reportedly contains the highest concentration of powerful antioxidants called polyphenols. Green tea is believed to have been discovered by the Chinese over four thousand years ago and used for its herbal and medicinal powers. It comes from a plant named Carmellia Sinensis. Green tea has been consumed throughout the ages in India, China, Japan, and Thailand. In traditional Chinese and Indian medicine, practitioners used green tea as a stimulant, diuretic (to promote the excretion of urine), astringent (to control bleeding and help heal wounds), and to improve heart health. Other traditional uses of green tea include treating flatulence (gas), regulating body temperature and blood sugar, promoting digestion, and improving mental processes.

Tea is composed of polyphenols, alkaloids (caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine), amino acids, carbohydrates, proteins, chlorophyll, volatile organic compounds (chemicals that readily produce vapors and contribute to the odor of tea), fluoride, aluminum, minerals, and trace elements. The polyphenols, a large group of plant chemicals that includes the catechins, are thought to be responsible for the health benefits that have traditionally been attributed to tea, especially green tea. The most active and abundant catechin in green tea is epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). 

There are number of benefits of green tea... one we all know is weight loss...

GREEN TEA AND WEIGHT LOSS

In 2009, a research paper was published on Effects of catechin enriched green tea on body composition in journal obesity states that regular consumption of green tea - which is rich in naturally-occurring tea actives called catechins - can significantly and positively effect body composition in moderately overweight individuals.The 90-day trial, conducted at Fudan University, in Shanghai, China, and funded by the Lipton Institute of Tea, supports existing evidence that green tea has a significant beneficial effect on body composition in Asian populations.

This new investigation monitored the effects of green tea consumption on body weight, body fat mass, as well as the distribution of fat. 182 moderately overweight Chinese subjects, aged between 18 and 55, were divided into four groups, with each group allocated a regular dose of green tea containing a different quantity of catechins. The results showed that, relative to the control group consuming no green tea catechins, body weight, waist circumference, intra-abdominal fat and the total lean mass all decreased after 90 days in the group that drank the tea with the highest concentration of catechins.

A mechanistic review in 2011 was done on Antiobesity effects of green tea catechins defines that Green tea catechins (GTC) are polyphenolic compounds present in the unfermented dried leaves of the plant, Camellia sinensis. Results from a number of randomized, controlled intervention trials have shown that consumption of GTC (270 mg to 1200 mg/day) may reduce body weight and fat. There are several proposed mechanisms whereby GTC may influence body weight and composition. The predominating hypothesis is that GTC influences sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activity, increasing energy expenditure and promoting the oxidation of fat. Caffeine, naturally present in green tea, also influences SNS activity, and may act synergistically with GTC to increase energy expenditure and fat oxidation. Other potential mechanisms include modifications in appetite, up-regulation of enzymes involved in hepatic fat oxidation, and decreased nutrient absorption.

NOT ONLY THIS BUT GREEN TEA HAD OTHER BENIFITS TOO....

1. CANCER PREVENTION - Among their many biological activities, the predominant polyphenols in green tea―EGCG, EGC, ECG, and EC― have antioxidant activity. These chemicals, especially EGCG and ECG, have substantial free radical scavenging activity and may protect cells from DNA damage caused by reactive oxygen species. A research done in 2003 states that tea polyphenols inhibit tumor cell proliferation and induce apoptosis . In other laboratory and animal studies done in 2006, tea catechins have been shown to inhibit angiogenesis and tumor cell invasiveness. In addition, tea polyphenols may protect against damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) B radiation, and they may modulate immune system function. Furthermore, green teas have been shown to activate detoxification enzymes, such as glutathione S-transferase and quinone reductase, that may help protect against tumor development. Although many of the potential beneficial effects of tea have been attributed to the strong antioxidant activity of tea polyphenols, the precise mechanism by which tea might help prevent cancer has not been established.

2. LOWERING CHOLESTEROL - Recent findings reveal these green tea can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), although only slightly. Re searchers from China, Xin-Xin Zheng and his team of the Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China conducted a study and poll of the 14 studies on green tea. In each study the researchers randomly divided participants into two groups, ie groups who drank green tea or extract for 3 weeks to 3 months, and the group that received inactive preparations. In general, those from the green tea group had total cholesterol 7.2 mg / dL lower than the comparison group. In addition levels of LDL or bad cholesterol 2.2 mg / dL lower or have decreased more than two percent. While there was no difference in the value of good cholesterol (HDL) in the two groups. The active ingredients are thought to play a role in lowering cholesterol is the catechins which will reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine. Despite having the benefits of cholesterol reduction but experts warn that the effect of the decline is very small. “Drinking green tea can not be recommended for patients who already have high-cholesterol,” says Nathan Wong, researchers say.

3. REDUCE THE RISK OF STROKE - A study published in the journal Stroke in 2009 concluded that an inverse association was found between tea consumption and the risk of ischemic stroke in a southern Chinese population with a significant dose-response relationship for drinking green tea. A meta-analysis published in 2009, analyzing the results from 9 different studies, found an astonishing 21% decrease in stroke risk. This is the result with drinking 3 cups of green tea a day. But adding another 3 cups to the daily intake further lowered down the risk of stroke by another 21%.

4. PREVENTION OF CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES - Green tea polyphenols have been extensively studied as cardiovascular disease and cancer chemopreventive agents in vitro and in animal studies. However, the effects of green tea consumption in humans remain unclear. However a study done in 2006 called as The Ohsaki Study having an objective to investigate the associations between green tea consumption and all-cause and cause-specific mortality. The Ohsaki National Health Insurance Cohort Study, a population-based, prospective cohort study initiated in 1994 among 40 530 Japanese adults aged 40 to 79 years without history of stroke, coronary heart disease, or cancer at baseline. Participants were followed up for up to 11 years (1995-2005) for all-cause mortality and for up to 7 years (1995-2001) for cause-specific mortality. Results showed that Green tea consumption is associated with reduced mortality due to all causes and due to cardiovascular disease but not with reduced mortality due to cancer.

5. PHYSICAL HEALTH - Antioxidants are what minimise the destruction caused by the normal process of oxidation. Oxidation is like the corrosion of metals due to exposure to the elements, only the damage is to our tissue cells. It's often referred to as oxidative stress. Over time, you can suffer from this damaging process with all sorts of diseases, including heart disease, cancers, and Alzheimer's. Activities such as smoking and alcohol consumption, poor diet, stress and pollutants in the environment all contribute to reducing the body's ability to ward off oxidative damage. It's actually the effort from an overworked immune system to curb or repair cellular and tissue damage from oxidation that creates this damaging stress. This is why anti-oxidants are important. The ingredients found in green tea include four primary polyphenols: epigallocatechin (EGC), epicatechin gallate (ECG), epicatechin (EC), and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These are terms for plant biochemical ingredients that are high in antioxidants.

6. REDUCE STRESS - A 2009 study done in Japan, on the effects of green tea on stress, studied the lifestyles of 42,093 individuals over the age of 40, and assessed their psychological distress based on their lifestyle factors. The research showed that study participants who had an average consumption of five or more cups of green tea per day, had lower psychological distress than participants who drank one or less cups of tea per day.

7. TOOTH LOSS - A study reviewed by Yasushi Koyama, from Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine (Japan), and colleagues assessed data compiled from 25,078 people, ages 40 to 64 years, who participated in the Ohsaki Cohort 2006 Study. The team determined that those study participants who drank one to two cups of green tea per day reduced their risk of tooth loss by 18%. Five or more cups of green tea daily was associated with a 23% reduction in tooth loss risk. Noting that previous studies have reported that green tea catechins may inhibit the action of oral bacteria linked to development of periodontal disease, the team concludes that: “The present findings indicate an association of green tea consumption with decreased odds for tooth loss.”

8. BRAIN POWER - There are many studies that reported deterioration of brain power is normal as a person ages. It is attributed to failure of brain cells to regenerate. However, a look at 1,003 Japanese who are more than 70 years old in a 2006 study found out that those who drink more green tea showed signs of lesser instances of decrease brain function. The study revealed that those who drink green tea at least six times weekly have a 38% lesser chance of cognitive impairment than those who have only drink green tea three times a week.

MODERATION IS A KEY

Again the most important word is moderation... 2 cups of green tea in a day is fine but not more than that as green tea also have side effects... Several studies have linked liver damage dangers. Green tea can also interact with drugs that reduce efektivtiasnya.

If you are being treated with any of the following medications, you should not drink green tea or take green tea extract without first talking to your health care provider:

Adenosine -- Green tea may inhibit the actions of adenosine, a medication given in the hospital for an irregular (and usually unstable) heart rhythm.

Antibiotics, Beta-lactam -- Green tea may increase the effectiveness of beta-lactam antibiotics by reducing bacterial resistance to treatment.

Benzodiazepines -- Caffeine (including caffeine from green tea) has been shown to reduce the sedative effects of benzodiazepines (medications commonly used to treat anxiety, such as diazepam and lorazepam).

Beta-blockers, Propranolol, and Metoprolol -- Caffeine (including caffeine from green tea) may increase blood pressure in people taking propranolol and metoprolol (medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease).

Blood Thinning Medications (Including Aspirin) -- People who take warfarin, a blood thinning medication, should not drink green tea. Since green tea contains vitamin K, it can make warfarin ineffective. Meanwhile, you should not mix green tea and aspirin because they both prevent platelets from clotting. Using the two together may increase your risk of bleeding.

Chemotherapy -- The combination of green tea and chemotherapy medications, specifically doxorubicin and tamoxifen, increased the effectiveness of these medications in laboratory tests. However, these results have not yet been demonstrated in studies on people. On the other hand, there have been reports of both green and black tea extracts stimulating a gene in prostate cancer cells that may cause them to be less sensitive to chemotherapy drugs. Given this potential interaction, people should not drink black and green tea (as well as extracts of these teas) while receiving chemotherapy for prostate cancer in particular.

Clozapine -- The antipsychotic effects of the medication clozapine may be reduced if taken fewer than 40 minutes after drinking green tea.

Ephedrine -- When taken together with ephedrine, green tea may cause agitation, tremors, insomnia, and weight loss.

Lithium -- Green tea has been shown to reduce blood levels of lithium (a medication used to treat manic/depression).

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) -- Green tea may cause a severe increase in blood pressure (called a "hypertensive crisis") when taken together with MAOIs, which are used to treat depression. Examples of MAOIs include phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

Oral Contraceptives -- Oral contraceptives can prolong the amount of time caffeine stays in the body and may increase its stimulating effects.

Phenylpropanolamine -- A combination of caffeine (including caffeine from green tea) and phenylpropanolamine (an ingredient used in many over-the-counter and prescription cough and cold medications and weight loss products) can cause mania and a severe increase in blood pressure. The FDA issued a public health advisory in November 2000 to warn people of the risk of bleeding in the brain from use of this medication and has strongly urged all manufacturers of this drug to remove it from the market.

Content Courtesy:  http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/green-tea-000255.htm

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21115335

http://hotmedicalnews.com/green-tea-promotes-weight-loss-new-research-finds/

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/prevention/tea

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/lifestyle/07/07/11/green-tea-lowers-cholesterol-risk-only-little

http://stroke.ahajournals.org/content/40/7/2480.full

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19228856

http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/296/10/1255.short

https://tribecahealth.evolveshop.com.au/epages/tribecahealth.sf/?ObjectPath=/Shops/5353109490334730/Categories/%22Case%20Studies%22/%22Tooth%20Decay%22

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15585768

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14519824

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16445946

Image Courtesy: octoviana.com, benefitsofgreen-tea.com, knowledgebase-script.com, healthhabits.ca, caring4youragingseniorcitizen.com, topnews.in, topnews.in, topcancernews.com, 1dental.wordpress.com, education2kid.blogspot.com

DETOX DIET: SAFE OR BREAKNECK????????

Hello everybody....
Yesterday it was a lovely weather,
I hope you were also out somewhere enjoying that enchanted weather as few of my friend made a plan to hang together.... I was realy excited to meet all of them... we as usual sat at Cafe Coffee Day and start discussing and sharing are achievement of our past few months. I have told them that now I m a blogger and writing about nutrition...


Suddenly one of my dear friend, ask me about DETOX DIET. She had lots of queries and questions in her mind regarding these diets because she wants to know the real picture behind the scene...


And this provides me a platform to write a new article on DETOX DIET.


Detox diets promise to flush toxins from our body and improve health, increase vitality, and help you lose weight by removing impurities from your lungs, skin and colon. But actually do, not more than lead you to unpleasant, unhealthy side effects. Still, these super-restrictive eating plans are hotter than ever, thanks to being linked to lanky celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow and Angelina Jolie. Beyonce Knowles attributed her 20-pound weight loss for the movie "Dreamgirls" to the Master Cleanse — a starvation diet whose adherents swallow nothing but a concoction of lemon juice mixed with maple syrup, water and cayenne pepper, as well as salt water and a laxative tea for 10 days. The latest to join the ranks is Salma Hayek.


DETOXIFICATION


Detoxification is the body's natural, ongoing process of neutralizing or eliminating toxins from the body. Toxins are anything that can potentially harm body tissue, including waste products that result from normal cell activity, such as ammonia, lactic acid and homocysteine, and human-made toxins that we are exposed to in our environment, food, and water. The liver, intestines, kidneys, lungs, skin, blood and lymphatic systems work together to ensure that toxins are transformed chemically to less harmful compounds and excreted from the body.


The newsletter Harvard Women’s Health Watch reviews some of the most widely promoted detox procedures, including the following:


Intestinal cleansing: Kits typically include a high-fiber supplement, a “support” supplement containing herbs or enzymes, a laxative to be used daily, and enemas. The aim is to eradicate parasites and expel fecal matter that allegedly adheres to the intestinal walls.


Foot detox: One method employs a special type of adhesive pad worn on the bottoms of the feet during sleep. Another approach is to immerse the feet for 30 minutes in an “ionic foot bath,” containing salt water and two electrodes that supply a low-voltage electric charge. Both methods claim to stimulate the outflow of toxins through the feet. However, there is no scientific evidence that ionic changes in the environment can stimulate a discharge of toxins through the feet—or any other part of the body.


Detox diets: A seemingly infinite array of diets is available for detoxifying the whole body. However, studies have shown that fasting and extremely low calorie intake—common elements of detox diets—cause a slowdown of metabolism and an increase in weight after the dieter returns to normal eating.


DETOX DIET


A detox diet is a dietary regimen involving a change in consumption habits in an attempt to detoxify the body by removal of toxins or other contaminants. It is claimed to improve health, energy, resistance to disease, mental state, digestion, as well as aiding in weight loss.
There are many different types of detox diets. Generally, a detox diet is a short-term diet that:


• Minimizes the amount of chemicals ingested (for example, by eating organic food).


• Emphasizes foods that provide the vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that the body needs for detoxification.


• Contains foods, such as high fiber foods and water that draw out and eliminate toxins by increasing the frequency of bowel movements and urination.


• Detox diets usually suggest that fruits and vegetables compose a majority of one's food intake.


• Limiting this to unprocessed (and sometimes also non-GM) foods is often advocated.


• Limiting or eliminating alcohol is also a major factor, and drinking more water (which helps curb appetite) is similarly recommended.


THERE IS NUMBER OF DETOX DIETS... FEW OF THEM ARE...


THE MASER CLEANSE DIET - The Master Cleanse diet is a combination of maple syrup, lemon juice, and cayenne pepper mixed in water. This is a gentler detox diet than a water-only fast. The energy in maple syrup is easily absorbed, which regulates the release of toxins as stored fat is converted to energy more slowly. This diet does not produce the healing crisis usually associated with water fasts, and you can continue doing your normal programme of activities.


JUICE FAST - It is another type of liquid detox diet. You are supposed to consume fruit or vegetable juices, or a combination of both. Apart from detoxification, you have the added benefits of enzymes, minerals and vitamins which help to rejuvenate the body. The best part of the diet is that it is easy on your digestive system, as the body can assimilate them directly without the need of any digestive enzymes.


MONO FRUIT DETOX DIET - The word mono would give you a clue that the diet will consist of only a single type of fruit. The diet can be done for a prolonged period, as the organic water of the fruit allows the body cells to clean themselves. When the water comes out, it takes out along with it harmful toxins. The use of only one fruit also makes your body’s pH more stable, and regulates your sugar level.


RAW FOOD DETOX DIET - Raw food diet means not only going back to a natural way of eating and avoiding processed foods, preservatives and additives, but also avoiding nutrient degradation by cooking. Eating foods in raw form preserves constituents, such as vitamins, fibre, chlorophyll, and organic forms of essential minerals, to benefit the human body.
They also come with digestive enzymes undamaged by heat, thus enzyme production in the body can be reserved for metabolic processes. They contain antioxidants and substances that strengthen your immune system. Raw foods support favourable potassium-to-sodium ratios that optimise cell functioning and pH balance, which are desired states when you go on a detox diet.


HALLELUJAH DIET - Many people are not comfortable with the idea of having all meals consisting of only raw food. As an alternative, this diet allows you to eat 85% raw food and 15% cooked food. The only restriction is that the cooked meal can be eaten only at the end of the evening meal. Also, breakfast has to be skipped and only barley grass drinks and fresh vegetable juices can be had instead then. It’ll take some time to get habituated to the regimen of skipping breakfast though if you are used to it. This switch is easier if you replace bacon and eggs with almond milk, fresh fruit salad, and sprouted grain toast with almond butter and whole grain raw granola.


DIURETIC DIET - This not only reduces body fat, but also helps the body to release fluids. Certain herbs like asparagus, artichoke, celery seed, dandelion, juniper berries, melon, parsley and watercress assist in this. Some food supplements and beverages like coffee, coke and tea are also diuretics.


NEED OF DETOX DIET


A growing body of research suggests that many of the chemicals we ingest daily through food, water, and air can become deposited in fat cells in our bodies. Toxins include pesticides, antibiotics and hormones in food, chemicals from food packaging, household cleaners, detergents, food additives, heavy metals, pollution, drugs, and cigarette smoke. A diet that lacks certain nutrients may also impair our natural ability to detoxify chemicals, which further leads to their build-up in the body.


BENEFITS OF A DETOX DIET
People often report improved energy, clearer skin, regular bowel movements, improved digestion, and increased concentration and clarity after a detox diet.


SIDE EFFECTS


As we have came across to there benefits, it also have another side, these are few side effects of detox diet.....
• One of the most common side effects is headache within the first few days of starting the detox diet, often due to caffeine withdrawal.


• Other side effects include excessive diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and electrolyte loss.


• Constipation may occur if people consume excess fiber without also increasing their fluid intake.


• Other side effects can include tiredness, irritability, acne, weight loss, and hunger.


• Any worsening of symptoms or new symptoms that occur during a detox diet should prompt a visit to a 
qualified health professional.


• If a detox diet is continued for a longer time, it may result in nutrient deficiencies, particularly protein (some detox diets omit animal products) and calcium.


• Fatigue, indigestion, cough, muscle pain, and poor sleep can be signs of serious illness.


• Vitamin deficiencies, muscle breakdown and blood-sugar problems — not to mention frequent liquid bowel movements — are some of the seriously unpleasant drawbacks to these plans, which are skimpy on solid foods and often call for laxatives.


• Because the crash diets can upset blood sugar, potassium and sodium levels in the body, people with diabetes, heart or kidney disease or women who are pregnant or nursing shouldn't try them, experts say. Children, teens, older adults or people with certain digestive conditions should also steer clear.


• News from THE TIMES, states that detoxing is potentially dangerous will have caused ripples of panic among those who rely on it for inner cleansing and occasional inch loss. A 52-year-old mother of two from Oxfordshire, made headlines when she received more than £800,000 after suffering permanent brain damage while on a detox diet that instructed her to reduce her salt intake and consume large amounts of water.


• Another story of 23-year-old patient who had slipped into a four-day coma as a result of hyponatraemia (water intoxication, which causes blood sodium levels to plummet and the brain to swell) induced by a three-week detox diet. Too much fluid and too little dietary sodium mean body salts, or electrolytes, in the blood become dangerously diluted. “Sticking to a detox regimen for a day or two won't be harmful for most people - neither will it have any effect on their long-term health - as there is no scientific basis for it,” Collins says. “But when detox plans promote longer periods of severe dietary restriction, which many do, they can cause problems.”


MY VERDICT ON DETOX DIET
• As we have alredy discussed about its side effects, as a nutritionist i don’t believe in detox diet.


• Cutting out whole food groups, such as meat, milk and milk products and whole grains can prone you to some serious nutritional deficiencies.


• For being healthy u need a - healthful diet, adequate fluids, exercise, sleep, and all recommended medical check-ups, instead of relying on so-called detox procedures.


• A healthy diet means include all food groups in your diet and have small and frequent meals.


• Anyone considering a detox diet should consult a qualified health professional and/or their medical doctor first.
• Pregnant or nursing women or children shouldn't go on a detox diet.


• People with anemia, eating disorder, diabetes, kidney disease, autoimmune disease, cancer, terminal illness, certain genetic diseases, and other chronic conditions shouldn't try this diet

Content courtesy: http://www.sciencedaily.com/articles/d/detox_diet.htm

http://weightloss.about.com/od/backtobasics/f/Can-A-Detox-Diet-Help-Me-Lose-Weight.htm

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18595886/ns/health-diet_and_nutrition/t/experts-warn-detox-diet-dangers/

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/features/article4457822.ece

http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/detox-diets-procedures-generally-dont-promote-health

Image courtesy:  greenlifeweightloss.com, flixya.com, easyrawfooddetoxdiet.com, book123.net, beautiful-body-ideal-weight.com, isovidysep.tk, whole-body-detox-diet.com,  medimanage.com, chronicfatiguesyndromesymptoms.info, ifood.tv

FOODS THAT IMPROVE MEMORY AND CONCENTRATION

Memory change is often seen to be the concern of a large number of people as they start getting older. The present lifestyle of people also hampers the memory and causes mild age memory loss to get worse in the future.

Many researches proved that the brain is capable of producing new brain cells at any age, so significant memory loss is not an inevitable result of aging.

Your lifestyle, health habits, and daily activities have a huge impact on the health of your brain. Your short-term and remote memories aren't usually affected by aging. But your recent memory may be affected. For example, you may forget names of people you've met today or where you set your keys, forgotten a phone number.

It happens with me also..... ALL THE TIME...

BUT whatever your age, there are many ways you can improve your cognitive skills, prevent memory loss and improve concentration.

So here are some foods that will help you to improve your memory and concentration:-

BLUEBERRIES - Blueberries are not only delicious, but is rich in antioxidants which are a source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Blueberries increases learning ability and memory recalling ability because of its high content of antioxidants. Researchers from the University of Houston and Tufts University U.S. Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging indicate that one month's supplementation of elderly rats with blueberries was associated with an improvement in the memory scores, as measured in a maze. In addition, data showed that two months of consuming the bluer-enriched diet was associated with a prolongation of the benefits after the diet was stopped, and the performance of the aging rats was similar to that of younger rats.

ALMONDS, SPINACH AND BROCCOLI – They are rich with magnesium, mineral which is useful to improve short and long term memories. A handful of Almonds can provide 25% daily magnesium need. According to an international study published in the journal Neuron, it was found that an increase in Magnesium (derived from natural resources) in the brain helped improve learning and memory in both young and old rats over a 5 year period. The research also suggests that eating foods rich in magnesium such as broccoli, almonds and spinach has potential to reduce the risk of losing your memory. Not only has this but according to the researchers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Tsinghua University, magnesium seemed able to support the stranded new tissue between brain cells. Half the population of industrialized countries have a magnesium deficit, but with the help of a healthy increase in one’s diet, the effects of mental ageing could be significantly delayed.

WALNUTS - A recent research found that walnuts had more antioxidants and better quality antioxidants than peanuts, almonds, pecans, pistachios and other nuts. “A handful of walnuts contains almost twice as much antioxidants as an equivalent amount of any other commonly consumed nut,” says Joe Vinson, Ph.D., of the University of Scranton, who presented the research at the annual meeting of the American Chemical Society. All nuts have been shown to improve lipids and can reduce the risk of heart disease. Walnuts have also been found to improve cognitive and motor function in animals with Alzheimer’s and in aged rats. So walnuts will also help you to improve your memory and concentration.

APPLE - “An apple a day” now has new meaning. New research from the University of Massachusetts Lowell suggests that eating and drinking apples and apple juice, in conjunction with a balanced diet, can protect the brain from the effects of oxidative stress that contributes to age-related memory loss. The study was published in the latest issue of the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. Research has shown that apples are a rich source of antioxidants. Cornell University researchers reported in the journal Nature in 2000 that one apple packs more cancer-fighting antioxidant capability than a 1,500-milligram dose of vitamin C. Apart from being brain healthy, apples are a delicious source of dietary fiber, which helps aid digestion and promotes weight loss. Apples have high nutrient content compared to the calorie per serving, promote health, protect against diseases and improve daily functioning.

FISH OIL, OLIVE OIL, FLEX OIL OR WALNUT OIL(Omega-3 Fatty Acids) - A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids not only protects against inflammation and high cholesterol, it can also improve cognitive function. "Population studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids, found in oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, could play a role in memory and concentration," says Toni Steer, MD, from Cambridge's MRC Human Nutrition Research. Classified as "healthy" fats, omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts, walnut oil and cold-water fish such as herring, tuna and halibut.

STRAWBERRY - Delicious and nutritious strawberries are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids. Low in calories and high in vitamins B12, B6 and folic acid, strawberries may also help prevent cancer and heart disease. A recent study performed by Tufts University and the USDA showed that the consumption of certain foods, including strawberries, can help improve short term memory. Strawberries also contain anthocyanins which help the body battle pain and inflammation.

SWEET POTATOES - Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamin B6, carbohydrates, as well as vitamin c and beta-carotene. Carbohydrates are used by your brain for energy. This energy flow can help you stay focused for long hours and also will keep your energy at highest levels. Vitamin C and beta-carotene are excellent antioxidants that help protect your brain cells from free radicals that can damage them over time and can improve cognitive function.

DARK CHOCOLATE - Chocolate is not only delicious, it’s also beneficial to your brain and can help enhance your mood. Natural stimulants boost the production of endorphins that improve focus and concentration. It is rich in flavanols that boost blood supply to the brain and help improve cognitive skills. Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants but also contains natural brain stimulants that can help increase your focus as well as your concentration.

One more thing will help you to improve your memory and concentration is:

EXERCISE - Scientists continue to find new evidence which points to a link between physical and mental health. A Cambridge University study suggested that jogging just few of times a week stimulates the brain. Hundreds of thousands of new brain cells were shown to have grown in an area that is linked to the formation and recollection of memories after a few days of running. An improved ability to recall memories without confusing them has a direct impact on other crucial cognitive tasks, and could lead to potential new ways of slowing down the deterioration of mental ability in old age.

Meanwhile, scientists have also recently found that particularly vigorous exercise helps release a protein that goes by the name of “noggin”. The protein acts as a counter-agent to another protein, bone morphogenetic protein, thereby stimulating the increased division of brain stem cells, keeping the brain nimble and active as we get older. Research suggests that amplified production of noggin could therefore prevent the on-set of age-related brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

So these are some of the foods if incoperated with balanced diet, will definitely help you to improve your memory and concentration but again the key is moderation......

Content courtesy:  http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/Research/Blueberries-may-reverse-age-related-mental-decline-Rat-study , http://www.thehealthpilgrim.com/2010/11/brain-power-improve-memory-concentration/ , http://www.rachelia.com/how-to-improve-memory-strengthen-memory-and-concentration.html , http://doctorsdunia.in/eat-apples-to-prevent-memory-loss/ , http://www.appleproducts.org/pr21.html , http://www.livestrong.com/article/248404-diets-to-improve-memory-concentration/#ixzz1OCn9kUfO , http://www.onlineuniversitylowdown.com/2007/08/20-foods-that-w.html , http://www.coringe.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-brain-power , http://www.antioxidants-health-benefits.com/benefits-of-the-strawberry.html

Images courtesy : soakednuts.wordpress.com , homemade-recipes.blogspot.com , thefatlossauthority.com , blackcarrefour.com , medimanage.com , elements4health.com , buzzle.com , robbwolf.com , scientificamerican.com

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COFFEE: FRIEND OR FOE???

Coffee: Delicious, smoothy, enticing, tempting, tasteful and obviously brain stimulator... Coffee has played a crucial role in many societies. Many of us just love that rich aroma and taste of coffee, that ‘buzz’ it gives.

 

 Wow...

What else anybody want in this stressful environment.... hmmmm.......

But is it good? What you think?????????????

Let’s explore the negative and the positive effects of coffee....

Coffee contains a complex mixture of chemical compounds. Some components, particularly those related to the aroma, are produced during roasting of the green beans. The substances which during "brewing" dissolve in water to form the beverage are classified as non volatile taste components (including caffeine, trigonelline, chlorogenic acid, phenolic acids, amino acids, carbohydrates, and minerals) and volatile aroma components including organic acids, aldehydes, ketones, esters, amines, and mercaptans.

Most coffee in India is grown in the southern states of Karanataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala.

Some of the beneficial effects of coffee are...

• As coffee contains caffeine, increases dopamine levels in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical nerve transmitter that activates the pleasure centre in the brain. That’s why you feel good after taking coffee.

• Coffee enhances your work performance. Caffeine is actually a stimulant, it improves your focus, increase attention span, improve mental performance and also energize your mood.

• Coffee enhances your physical performance also.

• A study published in the journal Molecular Nutrition & Food Research showed that people who drank four daily cups of coffee lost 1.5 pounds of body fat in four weeks.

• According to a European study, your daily cup of coffee reduces oxidative damage to your DNA by an impressive 40 percent. Coffee contains polyphenols which help protect cells from oxidation, regulate insulin and reduce inflammation.

NOT ONLY THIS ....

• A study conducted by Karolinska Institute in Stockholm found coffee drinkers had a lower incidence of breast cancer. They analysed data from almost 6,000 women who were past the menopause.

• Harvard School of Public Health, Boston states that there are a lot of compounds in coffee that have various biological effects. It's a major source of antioxidants and that might have anti-cancer effects.

• Also, coffee seems to have effects on insulin and has been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

• According to a new study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, consumption of filtered caffeinated coffee was not associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD) or all-cause mortality in women with CVD (May 2011).

• According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, several large studies have shown that caffeine intake is associated with a reduced risk of developing Parkinson's disease ... in men

• It also found that coffee drinkers may have a lower risk for developing type 2 diabetes, gallstones, colon cancer, and have a lower risk of liver damage

BUT ON THE OTHER HAND THERE ARE NUMBER OF RESEARCHES WHICH HAVE ALSO CONCLUDED THE NEGATIVE EFFECT OF COFFEE. THEY ARE.....

Insomnia and disruption of sleep patterns; tremors, nervousness, restlessness, and irritability; headaches; elevation of blood fatty acid levels; elevation of blood pressure, serum cholesterol levelsincreased gastric acid production and aggravation of peptic ulcers;higher risk of the birth of a low-birth-weight child and increased urinary calcium losses.

In addition, the use of coffee reduces the non-heme iron absorption of a meal by 40 to 60%, thereby increasing the risk of anemia.

THE KEY IS MODERATION

The quantity of coffee consumption matters a lot. If consumed is moderate amounts will act as a key to lock all the health related problems and disorders.

The September 2004 issue of Harvard Women's Health Watch found that, for most people, moderate coffee consumption is safe.

The research has not only confirmed that moderate coffee consumption doesn't cause harm, it's also uncovered possible benefits.

Studies show that the risk for type 2 diabetes is lower among regular coffee drinkers than among those who don't drink it. Also, coffee may reduce the risk of developing gallstones, discourage the development of colon cancer, improve cognitive function, reduce the risk of liver damage in people at high risk for liver disease, and reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease.

Coffee has also been shown to improve endurance performance in long-duration physical activities.

MY VERDICT ON COFFEE

• Moderate consumption of coffee. Not more that 2 cups in a day.

• Try to avoid coffee after 5pm because sleep is important for proper physical functioning and caffeine can stay in your system for 8 hours or longer.

 

• Coffee enhances the physical performance as caffeine can speed up metabolism and can help fat break down about 30 per cent more efficiently if consumed prior to exercise. So those who need to reduce weight they can drink coffee before exercise.

• Coffee can lead to dehydration during exercise due to the diuretic effect of caffeine, so to rehydrate your body drink water in between the exercise and an isotonic drink that contains sodium, potassium and some sugar would be ideal to aid in restoring blood sugar and the lost electrolytes.

• Avoid drinking coffee or even tea with your breakfast, lunch and dinner because it hinders in the absorption of nutrients specially iron and calcium

• So if you want to consume tea and coffee try to consume before or after half an hour of your meal.

So finally we can conclude that coffee is a friend if consumed in a moderate amount but keep an eye on yourself buddy as excess can lead to disasters.....

Content courtesy: http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/coffee_health_risk, http://health.usnews.com/health-news/family-health/cancer/articles/2011/05/17/could-coffee-lower-mens-risk-for-prostate-cancer, http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20110517/health-fitness/Coffee-could-protect-women-from-cancer.365831, http://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/news/2011/05/coffee-consumption-cvd-in-women-not-linked.aspx, http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/questions/coffee/, http://stress.about.com/od/stresshealth/a/caffeine.htm.

Images courtesy: getahead.rediff.com, home-living-news.co.uk, blog.thecoffeebump.com