Japanese Study Shows Link Between Green Tea Drinkers and Lower Death Risk
People who drink at least a pint of green tea each day have a lower risk of death, a Japanese study shows.
The lower overall death risk among green tea drinkers appears to be due to a lower risk of death from heart disease. And the benefit of green tea is especially pronounced in women, find Shinichi Kuriyama, MD, PhD, Tohoku University School of Public Policy in Sendai, Japan, and colleagues.
Green tea is a very popular drink in Japan. But some people drink more than others do. Women who drink five or more 3.4-ounce cups of green tea every day cut their risk of heart disease by 31% compared with women who drink one or fewer 3.4-ounce cups. Men who drink this much green tea cut their heart disease risk by 22%.
"Green tea may prolong your life through reducing heart disease and stroke," Kuriyama tells WebMD. "Our findings might explain the differences in mortality profile between Japan and the United States. The Japanese age-adjusted rate of mortality due to [heart disease and stroke] is about 30% lower than that of the United States."
The findings appear in the Sept. 13 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.
Green Tea: Might Americans Benefit?
Kuriyama's study is based on data collected since 1994 among more than 40,000 healthy Japanese people aged 40 to 79. More than 86% of the study participants remained in the study for 11 years. Participants filled out detailed questionnaires about their daily diets and health.
The study was conducted with meticulous care. But Kuriyama is quick to point out that this kind of study can't prove green tea has any beneficial effect. Proof comes only from a clinical trial in which some people get green tea and others do not. The Kuriyama study shows only that there is a link between green tea and lower death risk -- not that green tea causes lower death risk.
More Benefits for Women?
Why do women seem to get more of a benefit from green tea than men do? Kuriyama and colleagues note that the men in their study smoked more cigarettes than women did. And smokers, overall, got less of a benefit from green tea than nonsmokers.
But Cheng says it's related to estrogen. Green tea studies consistently show a greater effect for women than for men, he says. He suggests that green tea's active ingredients may interact with the female sex hormone estrogen to boost a heart-protective effect.
Green Tea: No Effect on Cancer
Kuriyama and colleagues found no evidence that green tea protects against cancer death.
Kuriyama says that was a surprise to him, as "abundant" evidence from animal and test-tube studies suggests that green tea ingredients fight cancer.
But he notes that the current findings are in line with other, smaller studies that find green tea has no effect on several specific kinds of cancer.
Green Tea Warnings
While it's yet to be proved that green tea really will protect you against early death, there's a lot of evidence that green tea is safe -- with two major exceptions.
Cheng warns that green tea contains vitamin K. Vitamin K affects blood clotting. People taking the blood-thinning drug Coumadin, he says, should not start drinking more green tea.
And Kuriyama warns against drinking your green tea piping hot.
"Drinking green tea at high temperature may be associated with increased risk of esophageal cancer," he says. "Therefore, I recommend that green tea should be consumed at moderate or low temperature."
What's the bottom line? For Lichtenstein, the message is to go ahead and drink green tea if you like it. But to prevent heart disease and stroke, what really works is a healthy diet and daily exercise.
Neither Kuriyama nor Cheng would disagree with that. But they both recommend green tea, too.
"I personally drink two to three cups of green tea per day," Kuriyama says. "On the basis of our study results, I would like to recommend the drinking of green tea to my friends and my family because our findings are the best evidence at present."
Cheng says green tea is much better for you than oolong tea or black tea, which lose some healthy properties during fermentation. But that's not why he drinks it.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Back Pain - self care
Become an active partner in your own back recovery. If you have back pain, begin with an appointment with your healthcare provider. When the problem is diagnosed, treatment will be suggested. Often back pain will go away by itself.
Back pain can be treated. However, you are the most important member of the healthcare team in treating your pain. Learn about your back, its anatomy and function. Learn how to return your back to a healthy state and how to keep it strong and healthy. Learn what good posture is. Practice safe body mechanics to prevent re- injury. Keeping your weight within the normal healthy range helps to prevent back pain.
Self-care of the back starts with relieving the immediate pain. Pain can be relieved with ice or heat. Either a cloth-covered ice pack or a heating pad on low can be put on the back for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. This will help to relieve the pain. Bed rest is not suggested for more than a couple of days, as it can weaken muscles. It may help to rest for 1 to 2 days.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may be recommended for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
Some people like to use a support belt for the back. A belt may help some people at first, but should only be used for a short time. If used for a long time, a back support belt can make the back weaker. A good night's rest is important for back recovery. If the pain is preventing a good night's rest, make sure that the mattress is supportive and comfortable. Sleep on your side with your knees bent. Sometimes it helps to put a pillow between the knees while sleeping. When sleeping on your back, be sure to put a pillow under your knees to take the strain off your back.
During the first 4 weeks of acute low back pain, at least one spinal manipulation by a chiropractor or osteopathic provider may help the pain. It is best not to have a manipulation of the neck because there could be serious complications.
A healthcare provider will suggest starting an exercise program, usually within 2 weeks, or sooner, of the onset of the pain. Exercising helps strengthen the back and minimize the pain. Even though an exercise program is important in making the back better, it is important not to over exert. Based upon your health status, the provider will determine what type of exerciseyou should do and how long and how often you should do it. Your exercise program will gradually increase over time. Exercise should never be done if it causes or increases the back pain.
Following a regular exercise program will strengthen your muscles and make them more flexible. This can help prevent back pain from returning. Most back exercise programs will include stretching and strengthening exercises and low impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming. Sometimes, it will be necessary to see a physical therapist to learn what exercises to do and how to do them.
Back pain can be treated. However, you are the most important member of the healthcare team in treating your pain. Learn about your back, its anatomy and function. Learn how to return your back to a healthy state and how to keep it strong and healthy. Learn what good posture is. Practice safe body mechanics to prevent re- injury. Keeping your weight within the normal healthy range helps to prevent back pain.
Self-care of the back starts with relieving the immediate pain. Pain can be relieved with ice or heat. Either a cloth-covered ice pack or a heating pad on low can be put on the back for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. This will help to relieve the pain. Bed rest is not suggested for more than a couple of days, as it can weaken muscles. It may help to rest for 1 to 2 days.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may be recommended for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
Some people like to use a support belt for the back. A belt may help some people at first, but should only be used for a short time. If used for a long time, a back support belt can make the back weaker. A good night's rest is important for back recovery. If the pain is preventing a good night's rest, make sure that the mattress is supportive and comfortable. Sleep on your side with your knees bent. Sometimes it helps to put a pillow between the knees while sleeping. When sleeping on your back, be sure to put a pillow under your knees to take the strain off your back.
During the first 4 weeks of acute low back pain, at least one spinal manipulation by a chiropractor or osteopathic provider may help the pain. It is best not to have a manipulation of the neck because there could be serious complications.
A healthcare provider will suggest starting an exercise program, usually within 2 weeks, or sooner, of the onset of the pain. Exercising helps strengthen the back and minimize the pain. Even though an exercise program is important in making the back better, it is important not to over exert. Based upon your health status, the provider will determine what type of exerciseyou should do and how long and how often you should do it. Your exercise program will gradually increase over time. Exercise should never be done if it causes or increases the back pain.
Following a regular exercise program will strengthen your muscles and make them more flexible. This can help prevent back pain from returning. Most back exercise programs will include stretching and strengthening exercises and low impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming. Sometimes, it will be necessary to see a physical therapist to learn what exercises to do and how to do them.
Back Pain -- Prevention
The spine works all day every day, taking on the stress of the work and play we do. The back gives support while standing, bending, sitting, and sleeping. Back pain and back injury may occur if a person is out of shape or under stress.
A healthy spine has three natural curves that form a gentle "S" shape. These curves are:
* cervical, the curve inward at your neck
* thoracic, the curve outward in the middle and
* lumbar, the curve inward in the low back
When these curves are in their proper position, the ears will be in a straight line with the shoulders and hips. Strong and flexible muscles are necessary to maintain this balance. A healthy back requires good posture, strong flexible muscles, correct lifting and moving techniques, a healthy body weight, and a positive attitude about home and work.
Tips for a healthy back:
* Place a pillow under the knees when sleeping on your back or between the knees when sleeping on your side.
* Avoid sitting for long periods. Get up and walk around often. A lumbar support for the lower curve of the back is essential. A small pillow can be used for this. * If standing for a long time, place one foot on a stool.
* Plan the day's tasks so that sitting and standing tasks can be alternated.
* Learn how to correctly lift, reach, push, and pull. Let the legs do most of the lifting by bending the knees and keeping the back straight. Hold items close to the body even when they are not heavy.
* Exercise regularly.
* Relaxation exercises can relieve physical and emotional stress.
* Since smoking contributes to back problems, do not smoke.
* Perform daily back exercises to strengthen and improve the flexibility of the spine. A physical therapist or certified exercise specialist can help design the right routine for your back.
A healthy spine has three natural curves that form a gentle "S" shape. These curves are:
* cervical, the curve inward at your neck
* thoracic, the curve outward in the middle and
* lumbar, the curve inward in the low back
When these curves are in their proper position, the ears will be in a straight line with the shoulders and hips. Strong and flexible muscles are necessary to maintain this balance. A healthy back requires good posture, strong flexible muscles, correct lifting and moving techniques, a healthy body weight, and a positive attitude about home and work.
Tips for a healthy back:
* Place a pillow under the knees when sleeping on your back or between the knees when sleeping on your side.
* Avoid sitting for long periods. Get up and walk around often. A lumbar support for the lower curve of the back is essential. A small pillow can be used for this. * If standing for a long time, place one foot on a stool.
* Plan the day's tasks so that sitting and standing tasks can be alternated.
* Learn how to correctly lift, reach, push, and pull. Let the legs do most of the lifting by bending the knees and keeping the back straight. Hold items close to the body even when they are not heavy.
* Exercise regularly.
* Relaxation exercises can relieve physical and emotional stress.
* Since smoking contributes to back problems, do not smoke.
* Perform daily back exercises to strengthen and improve the flexibility of the spine. A physical therapist or certified exercise specialist can help design the right routine for your back.
Back Pain -- causes
Many people suffer from back pain. Usually, the origin of back pain is the skeletal system and the muscles that support it. Back pain may also be caused by kidney, gastrointestinal or cardiac disorders. It may be caused by other organs or by a side effect of other diseases.
Once someone has had back pain, it is likely to be experienced again. The longer back pain goes on, the worse it gets. This cycle can be stopped when you know a little about your back and how it works.
The spine is made up of stacked bones called the vertebrae. They are arranged in three natural curves that keep your body supported. Strong, flexible muscles and ligaments help maintain these curves. Soft cushions called discs act as shock absorbers between the bones. The nerves run through the holes in the center of the vertebrae and branch out to your body.
The bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, or discs can cause back pain. Here's how:
* The bones of the spine can develop arthritis, get narrower (compress), or pinch nerves causing the nerve to become irritated. This normally produces a lot of pain.
* Discs can degenerate or lose their shape and support, or they can bulge or rupture.
* Muscles can fatigue and weaken, or become inflexible. A weak abdomen cannot help support your back. Obesity puts an additional stress on the back.
* Ligaments can be over-stretched and cause the bones to lose their support.
* Poor posture, incorrect body mechanics, stress, inactivity or overexertion can lead to back pain.
Good posture is necessary to keep the bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments and discs working well together. Good posture while you move at work or at play is called body mechanics. Learning good body mechanics will keep your back moving safely and efficiently. Keeping your muscles toned and exercised is the key to good body mechanics.
Doing too much activity, or doing too little, are both harmful to your back. If you exceed your limits, injury can result. On the other hand, a person who is out of shape will be unable to maintain good posture. This may result in undue stress to the spine. Emotional stress can make a back problem worse, contributing to muscle strains and muscle spasms.
Learn how to use your back smartly and it will last you a lifetime. If your back pain is not relieved, or continues after using exercises, or if it gets worse, see your healthcare provider.
Once someone has had back pain, it is likely to be experienced again. The longer back pain goes on, the worse it gets. This cycle can be stopped when you know a little about your back and how it works.
The spine is made up of stacked bones called the vertebrae. They are arranged in three natural curves that keep your body supported. Strong, flexible muscles and ligaments help maintain these curves. Soft cushions called discs act as shock absorbers between the bones. The nerves run through the holes in the center of the vertebrae and branch out to your body.
The bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, or discs can cause back pain. Here's how:
* The bones of the spine can develop arthritis, get narrower (compress), or pinch nerves causing the nerve to become irritated. This normally produces a lot of pain.
* Discs can degenerate or lose their shape and support, or they can bulge or rupture.
* Muscles can fatigue and weaken, or become inflexible. A weak abdomen cannot help support your back. Obesity puts an additional stress on the back.
* Ligaments can be over-stretched and cause the bones to lose their support.
* Poor posture, incorrect body mechanics, stress, inactivity or overexertion can lead to back pain.
Good posture is necessary to keep the bones, nerves, muscles, ligaments and discs working well together. Good posture while you move at work or at play is called body mechanics. Learning good body mechanics will keep your back moving safely and efficiently. Keeping your muscles toned and exercised is the key to good body mechanics.
Doing too much activity, or doing too little, are both harmful to your back. If you exceed your limits, injury can result. On the other hand, a person who is out of shape will be unable to maintain good posture. This may result in undue stress to the spine. Emotional stress can make a back problem worse, contributing to muscle strains and muscle spasms.
Learn how to use your back smartly and it will last you a lifetime. If your back pain is not relieved, or continues after using exercises, or if it gets worse, see your healthcare provider.
Back Pain
Most people have low back pain at some time in their lives. Back pain is responsible for many lost workdays each year. Most acute back pain will go away by itself in a few days or weeks.
Back pain or injury can occur to anyone. It can be caused by stress on the muscles and ligaments that support the back. Jobs that require a lot of sitting or a lot of standing may contribute to back pain. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the back. Strenuous sports like football can injure the back.
The pain can be a mild discomfort that is just a mild ache in the lower back to severe pain that keeps the person from doing anything. Severe pain does not indicate a more serious cause of the pain.
Often, very little needs to be done for back pain to make it better. Many times it will go away without any treatment. Bed rest is not suggested any more, as staying in bed can make the back muscles weaker. If the pain is severe, no more than 1 to 2 days of rest may help. Sometimes, a healthcare provider will suggest using a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
A cloth-covered ice pack or heating pad on low may be put on the pack to help with the short-term discomfort. The heat or ice should be on the back no longer than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Doing some mild exercising like walking or swimming may help to relieve the discomfort too.
If there is still pain after resting the back for several days, if it is severe, or comes back, the healthcare provider should be seen. The provider should also be seen for anyone with pain that goes into the legs or if there is numbness or tingling in the arms or legs. If there is loss of control of the bowel or bladder, this is more serious, and the provider should be seen as soon as possible.
Back pain can be avoided. Prevention starts with exercise on a regular basis and maintaining a healthy weight. Lose excess weight by following appropriate habits of diet and exercise. Have a certified fitness trainer customize a workout plan for you.
Learn safe lifting techniques. Bend with the knees and keep the back straight. Choose recreational and exercise activities that help keep the back flexible without putting too much pressure on it. Always warm up and stretch before participating in any vigorous activities.
Since smoking is known to be a factor in back pain, it is wise to quit, if you smoke.
A healthcare provider or a physical therapist can suggest exercises that will help strengthen the back and make it more flexible.
Back pain or injury can occur to anyone. It can be caused by stress on the muscles and ligaments that support the back. Jobs that require a lot of sitting or a lot of standing may contribute to back pain. Being overweight puts extra pressure on the back. Strenuous sports like football can injure the back.
The pain can be a mild discomfort that is just a mild ache in the lower back to severe pain that keeps the person from doing anything. Severe pain does not indicate a more serious cause of the pain.
Often, very little needs to be done for back pain to make it better. Many times it will go away without any treatment. Bed rest is not suggested any more, as staying in bed can make the back muscles weaker. If the pain is severe, no more than 1 to 2 days of rest may help. Sometimes, a healthcare provider will suggest using a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).
A cloth-covered ice pack or heating pad on low may be put on the pack to help with the short-term discomfort. The heat or ice should be on the back no longer than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Doing some mild exercising like walking or swimming may help to relieve the discomfort too.
If there is still pain after resting the back for several days, if it is severe, or comes back, the healthcare provider should be seen. The provider should also be seen for anyone with pain that goes into the legs or if there is numbness or tingling in the arms or legs. If there is loss of control of the bowel or bladder, this is more serious, and the provider should be seen as soon as possible.
Back pain can be avoided. Prevention starts with exercise on a regular basis and maintaining a healthy weight. Lose excess weight by following appropriate habits of diet and exercise. Have a certified fitness trainer customize a workout plan for you.
Learn safe lifting techniques. Bend with the knees and keep the back straight. Choose recreational and exercise activities that help keep the back flexible without putting too much pressure on it. Always warm up and stretch before participating in any vigorous activities.
Since smoking is known to be a factor in back pain, it is wise to quit, if you smoke.
A healthcare provider or a physical therapist can suggest exercises that will help strengthen the back and make it more flexible.
Back Exercises
Back exercises help strengthen and increase the flexibility of the muscles that support the back. It is important to exercise to keep in shape and have a strong, flexible back.
Back pain can affect people who are active as well as inactive. It is usually associated with weak muscles and poor flexibility of the back. Exercises can be done even when there is pain. Exercises are usually started a week after the pain begins. A healthcare provider can suggest a special exercise program for anyone with a back problem. Often 20 minutes of walking several times a day is the first exercise that is suggested. As the back pain gets better, more active exercise will be added, such as swimming, stationary bicycling or jogging.
Exercises such as double-leg raises, straight-leg sit-ups, sit-ups done with another person holding the feet, timed sit-ups, and standing toe touches should never be done. They put too much pressure and stress on the back.
The following exercises are exercises that are safe for people without back problems. They help make the back muscles stronger.
Exercise #1: Lie on the back with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tighten the stomach muscles and press the lower back against the floor. Hold this position for a count of ten, then relax. This can be repeated 10 to 12 times.
Exercise #2: Lie on the back with the knees bent, and feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise the head and shoulders off the floor, and reach the hands toward the knees. After a count of 10, slowly relax the head and shoulders and return to the floor. This exercise can be done 5 times.
Exercise #3: Lie on the back with the feet flat on the floor, raise the knees to the chest. Both hands should be put under the knees to gently pull the knees as close to the chest as possible. The head should not be raised. Lower the legs to the floor, without straightening them. This exercise can be repeated 5 times in a set. Several more sets of this exercise can be done throughout the day.
Exercise #4: Start this exercise by lying on the stomach. Tighten the muscles of one leg and raise the leg straight from the floor. Hold this position for a count of 10, before returning the leg to the floor. Repeat this with the other leg. Do this exercise 5 times for each leg.
These exercises can be done daily to maintain the strength and flexibility of the back. Do not do any exercise that causes pain. A healthcare provider should be seen if any back exercise causes pain.
Back pain can affect people who are active as well as inactive. It is usually associated with weak muscles and poor flexibility of the back. Exercises can be done even when there is pain. Exercises are usually started a week after the pain begins. A healthcare provider can suggest a special exercise program for anyone with a back problem. Often 20 minutes of walking several times a day is the first exercise that is suggested. As the back pain gets better, more active exercise will be added, such as swimming, stationary bicycling or jogging.
Exercises such as double-leg raises, straight-leg sit-ups, sit-ups done with another person holding the feet, timed sit-ups, and standing toe touches should never be done. They put too much pressure and stress on the back.
The following exercises are exercises that are safe for people without back problems. They help make the back muscles stronger.
Exercise #1: Lie on the back with the knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Tighten the stomach muscles and press the lower back against the floor. Hold this position for a count of ten, then relax. This can be repeated 10 to 12 times.
Exercise #2: Lie on the back with the knees bent, and feet flat on the floor. Slowly raise the head and shoulders off the floor, and reach the hands toward the knees. After a count of 10, slowly relax the head and shoulders and return to the floor. This exercise can be done 5 times.
Exercise #3: Lie on the back with the feet flat on the floor, raise the knees to the chest. Both hands should be put under the knees to gently pull the knees as close to the chest as possible. The head should not be raised. Lower the legs to the floor, without straightening them. This exercise can be repeated 5 times in a set. Several more sets of this exercise can be done throughout the day.
Exercise #4: Start this exercise by lying on the stomach. Tighten the muscles of one leg and raise the leg straight from the floor. Hold this position for a count of 10, before returning the leg to the floor. Repeat this with the other leg. Do this exercise 5 times for each leg.
These exercises can be done daily to maintain the strength and flexibility of the back. Do not do any exercise that causes pain. A healthcare provider should be seen if any back exercise causes pain.
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Live longer and stay healthier with Tomato
A fruit that is more commonly used as a vegetable, botanically classified in the poisonous fruit family (nightshade plants), packed with lots of nutrients, and that which brings the beautiful red colour to many of our recipes, please welcome the most popular fruit in the world- The Tomato!! First cultivated in 700 AD, explorers returning from Mexico introduced the tomato into Europe in 1556. The French called it "the apple of love," the Germans "the apple of paradise", due to the misconception that it acts as an aphrodisiac (you are free to try it out though and prove it wrong!:)) A single average tomato has only 35 calories, and it's better to eat it cooked than raw. Let's explore more health benefits that this red tiny-tot holds within itself.
Lycopene - A phytochemical (carotenoid) that is responsible for the red color of tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables is a powerful antioxidant and may help reduce the risk of some cancers and cardiovascular disease. Unlike other carotenoids, lycopene is not converted into vitamin A by the body.Lycopene is a fat soluble substance that is found in the blood and tissues of the testes, adrenal glands, liver, prostate, breast, colon and lungs. Combined with vitamins C and E, it protect us from the free radicals that degrade many parts of the body.
Vitamins(A,B,C,E and K) - One tomato contains around 60-65% of the daily recommended vitamin intake.Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Vitamin C helps form connective tissue, keeps capillaries healthy to help prevent easy bruising, and keeps the gums healthy. It also helps the body to access iron from plant sources. Vitamin A assists in maintaining normal cellular growth, aids in the development of healthy skin, hair and mucous membranes, proper vision, development of bones and teeth and reproduction. Vitamin K helps to maintain blood clotting, thus helping to prevent hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding). Vitamin K is used fr healthy bone growth through mineralization.
Potassium - Like banana, tomato contains significant amount of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and aids muscle contractions. It may also reduce the risk of kidney stones and bone loss.
Dietary fiber - The undigestible part of a plant, Fiber can aid digestion by preventing constipation and thereby prevent Piles or similar ailments.
Besides all the above, Tomato contains several other nutrients which combined with the above help in preventing prostrate, colon, lung, stomah and endometrial cancers. They help in increasing longevity of life, and also prevent cataracts. Though raw tomatoes are great for you, cooking them in oil releases Lycopene which is stored in its cell wall, and can be better absorbed by the body. They are best when consumed within a few days after ripening.
So the next time you go grocery shopping, remember this article and pick a couple extra tomatoes (for the health benefits, not for me!!)
Please visit the actual blogsite at http://funnfud.blogspot.com
Lycopene - A phytochemical (carotenoid) that is responsible for the red color of tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables is a powerful antioxidant and may help reduce the risk of some cancers and cardiovascular disease. Unlike other carotenoids, lycopene is not converted into vitamin A by the body.Lycopene is a fat soluble substance that is found in the blood and tissues of the testes, adrenal glands, liver, prostate, breast, colon and lungs. Combined with vitamins C and E, it protect us from the free radicals that degrade many parts of the body.
Vitamins(A,B,C,E and K) - One tomato contains around 60-65% of the daily recommended vitamin intake.Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Vitamin C helps form connective tissue, keeps capillaries healthy to help prevent easy bruising, and keeps the gums healthy. It also helps the body to access iron from plant sources. Vitamin A assists in maintaining normal cellular growth, aids in the development of healthy skin, hair and mucous membranes, proper vision, development of bones and teeth and reproduction. Vitamin K helps to maintain blood clotting, thus helping to prevent hemorrhaging (excessive bleeding). Vitamin K is used fr healthy bone growth through mineralization.
Potassium - Like banana, tomato contains significant amount of potassium which helps regulate blood pressure and aids muscle contractions. It may also reduce the risk of kidney stones and bone loss.
Dietary fiber - The undigestible part of a plant, Fiber can aid digestion by preventing constipation and thereby prevent Piles or similar ailments.
Besides all the above, Tomato contains several other nutrients which combined with the above help in preventing prostrate, colon, lung, stomah and endometrial cancers. They help in increasing longevity of life, and also prevent cataracts. Though raw tomatoes are great for you, cooking them in oil releases Lycopene which is stored in its cell wall, and can be better absorbed by the body. They are best when consumed within a few days after ripening.
So the next time you go grocery shopping, remember this article and pick a couple extra tomatoes (for the health benefits, not for me!!)
Please visit the actual blogsite at http://funnfud.blogspot.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
