Bee Pollen Diet Supplements

2011-05-27 / Supplements / 0 Comments

The Great Bee Pollen Diet Riot

Everybody knows that when it comes to talking about diets, we all want to hang our heads in shame. At one time or another we have all looked at ourselves and wanted to make a change.

Diet is a major issue in America and other countries that are now adopting fast food into their diets. The concept of the bee pollen diet is a little known concept, but one well worth talking about.

Bee Pollen Diet Supplements

Pollen supplementation is a great way to enhance your healthy diet, or to just feel better in general. There are many people who use pollen in their diet for different reasons, but most individuals share the same challenges.

Most people would like to lose weight, feel better, digest their food better, have energy, and enjoy a better sex life. Pollen has been proven to help in all of these areas.

Bee pollen can be taken as a dietary supplement in several ways including caplets, tablets, granules, and chewable tablets. Caplets or tablets are the most common form that people use, because it seems easier, and can be stored in a bottle in a medicine or kitchen cabinet.

Pollen granules are now becoming more popular because they can be purchased in bulk and can be stored in big bags in the pantry or in the kitchen cabinets. These granules last for quite some time, but you don’t have to use a lot of them to get good results.

If you are using pollen granules for the first time, you can simply put one or two and allow them to dissolve under your tongue. You can also add pollen granules to cereal, smoothies and more.

The pollen diet is not necessarily just eating bee pollen, but adding it in as a dietary supplement.

The Bee Pollen Diet Rage

There have been many different opinions regarding pollen and how it affects people, but for everyone the effects will be different. Using capsules once a day may be just what you need to help with arthritis, whereas using granules in your food may be the best for raw pollen consumption.

The idea is that in raw form, things work better like fruits and vegetables, and raw honey. Once our foods or vitamins are processed, it minimizes the level of the nutrients that were in it in the first place.

When it comes to using bee pollen, it’s really a matter of preference, just like anything else. There is no right or wrong way to take it, but everyone should try it as they wish and see how it works for them, and then they can make a decision about how to proceed.

In closing, there is nothing better than the feeling that you are making strides with your health and getting into shape.

So, buy yourself some pollen and buzz off to your local health club!

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The Rediscovery of an Ancient Super Herb

2011-05-26 / Herbs / 0 Comments

Black Seed (Nigella Sativa), from the buttercup family is beginning to get rave reviews from health professionals. The Ancient Egyptians were very aware of its healing and purificatory qualities. Even Tutankhamun had it buried in his tomb.

Avicenna (980-1037AD) the Persian-born, philosopher who wrote the medieval medical text known as the Canon of Medicine, also extolled black seed oil’s recuperative and regenerative powers.
This super herb, pressed from the seeds of the plant, is said to have an astonishing array of benefits,
some of which are:

  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Anti-oxidant
  • Anti-tumour
  • An immunomodulator-balances the immune system
  • Hypotensive
  • And the list goes on.

    The good news for those advancing in years and indeed anyone who is concerned about free radical damage, is that research indicates that black seed oil is a powerful free radical scavenger. Free radicals can quicken the ageing process and cause all kinds of diseases by destroying healthy cells.

    Free radical damage may lead to, heart problems, diabetes, or cancer, all major diseases in the West.

    It is a rich source of essential fatty acids which are the building blocks of cells and help the body produce Prostaglandin E1.

    When analysed it was found that Black seed oil,contains the following Essential fatty acids:

    Myristic Acid(0.5%), Palmitic Acid (13.7%), Palmitoleic Acid (0.1%), Stearic Acid (2.6%), Oleic Acid (23.7%), Linoleic Acid [Omega-6] (57.9%), Linolenic Acid [Omega-3] (0.2%), Arachidic Acid (1.3%) – and the following nutrient components Protein, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine, Niacin, Folacin, Calcium, Iron, Copper, Zinc, Phosphorus.

    It contains more than a hundred natural plant chemicals including powerful antioxidants, carotenes, carbohydrates, vitamins, 15 amino acids of which 8 are essential amino acids, and minerals such as calcium and magnesium.

    Nigellone is one of the volatile oils present in the black seed herb.

    As an anti-histamine, it helps fight allergies and hay fever. Its bronchi dilating effect is helpful in treating respiratory problems.

    A study done at the Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia to determine the effects of black seeds on pancreatic cancer cells showed that the seed extract was able to inhibit the activation and synthesis of NF-kappaB. NF-kappaB is a protein that is associated with pancreatic cancer and other inflammation associated cancer. These two results suggest that black seeds have the potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells.

    What scientific research has there been to date?

    Since 1959, there have been over 200 studies at international universities and articles published in various journals showing remarkable results supporting some of its traditional use. The studies continue and everyday new benefits are discovered.

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    Fish Oil And Cholesterol

    2011-05-25 / Oils / 0 Comments

    Cholesterol has become one of the most common words in the English language, and the fight is on for healthy levels. Most of us are now aware of the importance of these levels and are familiar with the terms LDL and HDL. But what do they mean and is there a connection between fish oil and cholesterol?

    LDL is commonly called our bad cholesterol, but in fact there is no such thing. It’s all good! Only the levels of LDL compared to HDL can be considered bad. Both of these abbreviations are for lipoproteins that are responsible for transporting this all important waxy fat to and from our cells, which depend on it to stay healthy.

    The LD stands for low density, which means that in comparison to the HDL it is carrying less cholesterol and is smaller. They are the outbound, or en-route to the cells, transportation system.

    They are referred to as bad because they are able to invade the thin layer of cells that make up the lining of blood vessels. When this happens they attract white blood cells to the scene and begin to form a bulge on the inside of the vessels or arteries. The bulge consist of cholesterol laden LDL, white blood cells, and the waste products from all of them.

    The HD means high density when compared to the LDL. This allows it to carry more of this waxy fat, and is responsible for bringing it back to the liver for disposal or elimination from the body. Since HDL is responsible for eliminating it from the body it is important to maintain high numbers of these in relationship with LDL.

    Even though fish oil does lower the numbers of LDL somewhat, it is known to significantly raise the HDL numbers. These lipoproteins are circulating throughout the blood stream looking for cholesterol, attaching to it, and transporting it back to the liver for elimination. Research shows that the higher these levels are the fewer cardiovascular diseases will be present.

    But medical science is becoming more and more aware of what could be the most important connection between fish oil and cholesterol. It’s natural ability to control chronic inflammation, therefore preventing the macrophages, or white blood cells, from accumulating with the LDL.

    The macrophages engulf the LDL particles and begins to form plaque that causes the artery wall to thicken. This is atherosclerosis and is the result of chronic inflammation inside the walls of arteries caused by white blood cells accumulating where they are not needed. Researchers are now seeing that LDL and HDL numbers are only a part of the equation and that chronic inflammation plays a large part in the process.

    Fish oil supplies us with a rich source of omega-3 long chain fatty acids that keep our cells in good working order and it also provides us with resolvin that works to control what white blood cells are doing.

    Cholesterol is a fat produced in all mammals and required by all of our cells. It is essential and by itself causes no harm in our body. LDL and HDL are the transportation system perfectly designed to transport this fat to and from our cells from our liver.

    Chronic inflammation is becoming infamous for creating all sorts of diseases in our bodies. It is well established that chronic inflammation is a direct result of not eating enough omega-3 in relationship to the omega-6 that we are eating as a society.

    The medical profession is coming to terms with the fact that atherosclerosis cannot be blamed on high LDL or low HDL numbers alone, and have identified a partner in this as being chronic inflammation. Because omega-3 is known to be the best defense against this inflammation and for raising HDL numbers, there is definitely a connection between fish oil and cholesterol.

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    Noni Juice Benefits and Side Effects

    2011-05-17 / Other / 0 Comments

    Most of us would have undoubtedly heard of the hype that surrounds Noni juice, the supposed elixir of good heath. Nonetheless, most of us are really not aware of what exactly this juice is all about. So here is all you need to know about Noni juice, how it can help you and what are its possible side effects.

    Noni Juice:

    The Noni fruit is also called the Indian mulberry, beach mulberry, cheese fruit as well as the great Morinda. Noni is the fruit of the Morinda Citrifolia tree and is known for its medical properties among most natives in Tahiti, Hawaii, Southeast Asian countries such as India as well many other parts of the world.

    The western world was introduced to this natural source of well being only in 1992, however this fruit has been used by many natives for centuries. Today, Noni juice is seen as a source of minerals, vitamins as well as antioxidants that are very good for the body’s general well being.

    How can Noni juice help you?

    Noni helps in clearing acne and general heath of skin

    This plant is believed to cure a wide range of mild stomach problems such as constipation, indigestion and even reduce inflamed gums.

    They are believed to give you a boost, a bit more energy to tackle your day with.

    They also strengthen your body’s immunity and studies have shown that this product is capable of retarding cancer in mice.

    Studies have also shown that recommended dosage of this product reduces blood pressure as well as cholesterol levels.

    Noni is also said to have strong adaptogen properties, which helps you control your stress levels, the key to a person’s well being.

    Noni juice is such a rich source of nutrients and beneficial substances that it can help you with a number of functions.

    Side effects of Noni juice

    The juice of the Noni fruit has many benefits, however even a good thing taken in excess can be bad for you. Since there are no proven side effects, it is better to stick with the recommended dosage of two tablespoons per day.

    So what’s in it for me?

    The thing about Noni juice is that it is one of those natural fruits that has a lot of benefits. Like all things including green vegetables that are good for you, they don’t taste good. So, a supplement in the form of juice, tablets or powder can go a long way in giving you that extra boost to help you through your day.

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    Why Multivitamins Are Good for You

    2011-05-14 / Vitamins / 0 Comments

    Each and every one of us is taking vitamins whenever we are eating our meals. Our food contains so many vitamins and minerals that help us live healthier. Not only does it give us the strength we need to make it through the day, whether for work, school, exercise, etc., but food also helps build or immune system. People who eat right are often very healthy and live longer. But what about people who can’t eat right because of hectic schedules? Can they be healthy and stay healthy too? Sure they can, with the help of multivitamins!

    Multivitamins are good for those who can’t or don’t eat right. It serves as the food supplement that the body needs. Having a small pill called multivitamins everyday can reduce the risks of diseases such as colon cancer and cardiovascular diseases. But before you take on some multivitamins, you need to know the right multivitamins for you. In picking the right multivitamins that would suit you, you must consider your age, gender, allergies, and what vitamins do you need? There are so many multivitamins in the market today so pick the right one for you. After choosing the right pill for you, then take the prescribed dosage every day.

    What are the benefits of Multivitamins, anyway? Most multivitamins contains 10 vitamins and 10 minerals to supplement a proper and regular diet. Such vitamins are Iron which is good for the blood, there is also Calcium that strengthens the bones, Magnesium helps metabolize calcium, Zinc that fights infections and Vitamin D which is also good for the skin. These are just some of the beneficial vitamins that our body needs each and every day.

    Multivitamins do not only help an individual nourish his or her bodily needs, but it also gives improved mental conditions. It also is needed to treat some diseases. A person with an Alzheimer’s disease can take up multivitamins in order to get Vitamins C and E. This is the main benefits of multivitamins intake, it fights illnesses caused by some vitamins and minerals deficiencies. Stressed people can definitely benefit from multivitamins. When you always busy and you don’t have the time to think about your health, then multivitamins can offer you the supplementation’s you need for your mental ability and daily endurance’s.

    With the world changing so rapidly with all the technological developments, it would appear that time is being fast forwarded. People can’t seem to keep up with time and are bombarded with work and stress. Thanks to multivitamins, life is much easier. There are so many things that vitamins can do. Although multivitamins are recommended to anyone, it does not necessary mean that everyone should take them. There are people that don’t need multivitamins. Be sure to consul the doctor first before you engage yourself to taking a daily dose of these pills. It is very important that the human body should perform properly. Taking multivitamins every day can help the body in a lot of ways by providing needed vitamins to function properly.

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    What Are The Benefits Of Vitamin D3?

    2011-05-13 / Vitamins / 0 Comments

    When men and women get into later years it will become more challenging for us to get an adequate dose of Vitamin D to keep our bones in good shape and maintain normal blood pressure. Since we tend to spend most of our time in doors, many of us are deficient in optimum quantities of this vital particular nutrient. Since the only way to get an adequate supply of Vitamin D without supplements is by natural light, it is sometimes recognized as the sunshine vitamin.

    Vitamin D3 is fat soluble that gets stored in the body’s soft tissue. The two forms of vitamin D are ergocalciferol which is vitamin D2 and cholecalciferol that is vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is is the one that is produced in the skin after exposure to UVB rays from the sun or artificial light. It also occurs naturally in fish. In addition, some cereals and milk products are fortified with vitamin D. The elderly and adults that are lactose intolerant or whom otherwise want to reduce their eating of calcium-rich foods in their diet are most at risk for not having enough Vitamin D. For these individuals, vitamin D supplements may be worth considering.

    Vitamin D3 circulates as a hormone when it is synthesized in the kidneys. This process helps in the absorption of calcium. Calcium is necessary for maintaining strong teeth and bones. In addition, this vitamin helps to prevent rickets and post menopausal osteoporosis. This is important in helping to prevent your bones from breaking due to an injury. In addition, the vitamin also helps to maintain normal blood sugar levels and a well-balanced immune system. In fact, if you have type I diabetes, you may be at risk for low levels of Vitamin D.

    Furthermore, it can cut down the possibility of prostate cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer in men and women. If you need the D3 vitamin, the best time to start taking it is before middle age. Otherwise, when you get older a simple slip or a fall can cause you to break a leg or a hip resulting in surgery and a painful recovery. In fact, thousands of senior citizens suffer broken bones every year because they slipped and fell.

    You need to get an optimum dose of Vitamin D3 each day to promote healthy teeth and prevent brittle bones. There are risks involved for sitting outdoors everyday to take in the sun’s UVB rays to get your sufficient amount of Vitamin D. For this reason, millions of people take Vitamin D3 supplements in drops or capsules to live healthy, the natural way.

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    Vitamin D – Effective Dietary Supplements

    2011-05-07 / Vitamins / 0 Comments

    Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin which boosts calcium absorption and helps to maintain sufficient serum calcium and phosphate concentrations and thus prevents occurrence of hypocalcemic tetany. It is obtained from sunlight, certain foods and supplements. An adequate amount of Vitamin D in the body is required for maintenance of a healthy immune system.

    Vitamin D supplement benefits
    As vitamin D improves natural immunity, it is essential to take vitamin D supplements to prevent diseases and infections. A vitamin D rich diet reduces the risk of respiratory illness. It also lowers the chances of inflammation and other chronic diseases. Vitamin D is found to fight against prostate, colon and breast cancer effectively. Vitamin D is also beneficial to prevent diabetes type I and II, hypertension, autoimmune disease and schizophrenia. Vitamin D is known to cure Crohn’s disease, cystic fibrosis, osteoporosis and rickets.

    Dosage of vitamin D
    It is important to know how much vitamin D is required depending upon age. Vitamin D is present in dietary supplements in two forms, cholecalciferol (D3) and ergocalciferol (D2). Multivitamins also contain vitamins required for a healthy body. 5-10 micrograms or 200-400 IU per day is the recommended dosage. Adults and people with hepatic failure or a history of malabsorption should consume the supplement dose of 2000 IU. It increases further to 6000 IU for pregnant women. These are internationally recommended dosages. Consult your doctor before taking D supplements.

    Deficiency of vitamin D
    A deficiency of the vitamin can lead to serious health issues like osteomalacia which causes bone softening. It may also cause abnormal bone formation. Such conditions must be treated with the help of calcium and vitamin D supplements. Those who do not get sun exposure also suffer from these conditions.

    The deficiencies are common amongst people with kidney and lung disease, alcohol problems or, if they are strictly vegetarians. Also, people who suffer from intestinal malabsorption are diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency.

    Natural sources of Vitamin D
    Sunlight is the best source of Vitamin D. It is vital that you get 15-30 minutes of sunlight every day. Body produces vitamin D readily once it’s exposed to the sun. Those who suffer from vitamin D deficiency should not wear sunscreen while going out.

    Dairy products, milk, eggs, cereals and seafood are good sources of Vitamin D. Cod liver oil, salmon, liver and catfish provide sufficient amounts of Vitamin D. Tofu, mushrooms, soy milk, yoghurt and Swiss cheese are some vegetarian sources of this vitamin.

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