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Archive for the ‘Diet & Nutrition’ Category

Menopausal women tend to have similar body shapes of apples, a large abdominal, which is identical with high levels of cholesterol and fat. The ill effects of the “apple body” can be combated with an apple. A study in the United States said apple is a “miracle fruit”.

This study, involving 160 postmenopausal women ages 45-65, who were randomly divided into two groups, one group received 75g / day of dried apples for one year, and another group received prunes. Blood samples were taken at month 3, 6, and 12. The results are startling: women who ate the apple, the cholesterol levels of “bad” LDL dropped 23% in 6 months. Lipid hydroperoxide levels and C-reactive protein (CRP) was also down.

Lipid hydroperoxide is a lipid (fat) is oxidized and damaged, which damage cells. CRP is a protein in an area that increases the inflammatory response (inflammation). The higher the CRP, the higher the inflammation. Previous research in animals shows, pectin and polyphenols in apple improve fat metabolism and lowers the production of pro-inflammatory molecules.

In contrast, levels of “good” cholesterol HDL  increased by about 4%. Another advantage, an additional 240 calories of dried apple consumption does not cause weight gain. In fact, weight loss of about 3,30 pound. One reason may have come from pectin, which creates a feeling of fullness and suppress appetite.

A plate of vegetables and tomatoes sprinkled with olives, then doused with olive oil. Or a bowl of cereal with fruit pieces and nuts. Side dishes, more fish than red meat and poultry, as well as the more unsaturated fats than saturated fats. This is the Mediterranean diet. Not only tasty, Mediterranean diet was to prevent brain damage that interferes with memory and thinking ability. Studies conducted in New York, United States, against 712 people proves this.

After 6 years, all participants undergo an MRI examination, and 238 of them had at least one part of the brain damage. After investigation, those whose diets most closely to the Mediterranean diet, may suffer brain damage 36% smaller than those whose diets away from the Mediterranean diet. Meanwhile, those whose diets are close enough to the Mediterranean diet, 21% smaller.

Concluded, diet is far from the Mediterranean diet, comparable to the increase in blood pressure and brain damage. Previous research shows that Mediterranean diet or a diet similar to it can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and prolong life of Alzheimer’s sufferers. Based on the research note that this is also affected by brain damage, which occurred less with the Mediterranean diet.

Known as the source of good bacteria, probiotics also favored by adherents of a healthy lifestyle. Later, the popularity of probiotics continues to increase. Dozens of products, not just yogurt, but also cereals and beverages, advertise the presence of probiotics in it. In the United States, sales of probiotic supplements increased more than threefold during the year 1997-2007. Meanwhile, sales of probiotic worldwide is estimated at a value of 15 million U.S. dollars. However, as the health claims that keep popping up, many doubts arise. Is it true that the benefits of yogurt that much? Then how portions of probiotics safe to consume?

What are probiotics?
Probiotics are generally defined as the good bacteria. Grow naturally in fermented foods, like yogurt, kefir and miso. Probiotics can also be added to other foods, or as functional food components. Claims of functions, which can be submitted for probiotic products is that it can help maintain gastrointestinal function. World Health Organization defines probiotics as “live microorganisms which when consumed in sufficient quantities as a component of food (and drink), has benefits for health.”

What are the benefits?
In a report published in 2006, disclosed the existence of strong evidence showing that probiotics can be used to prevent diarrhea, especially in cases caused by rotavirus. In another report, explained the benefits of probiotics for gastrointestinal health in detail. Some of them are overcome lactose intolerance, and prevent and deal with some cases of diarrhea.

Certain probiotics may also be effective in dealing with common digestive problems. For example, in the case of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or a digestive tract disorder characterized by abdominal discomfort. The cause of IBS is not yet certain. However, a study in 2005 found that sufferers who received probiotic intake has decreased pain in the abdomen. Similarly, symptoms of bloating and irregular bowel movements, decreases in levels.

There are also many studies that focus on the role of probiotics in preventing and overcoming the infection in the urogenital area (urinary tract and genitals). A study in 1995, for example, found that weekly doses of Lactobacillus was found to reduce recurrence of urinary tract infections.

Are probiotics available in various types?
At least 20 strains of probiotics are sold in the market by several manufacturers. Among the bacteria well known, two species of bacteria: Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, the most frequently used. Experts stressed that different bacterial strains can have vastly different effects for the condition of the body. Probiotics are strain specific. Required testing to see the health benefits and safety of each strain. Read the rest of this entry »