Superfoods Flashcards
(182 cards)
1
Q
What are superfoods?
A
Foods containing all vitamins, minerals and trace minerals (e.g. algae, sprouts, bee pollen)
2
Q
How can you refer to the antioxidant capacity of a food?
A
Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) score
3
Q
What is the ORAC score?
A
A laboratory test aiming to quantify the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of a food
4
Q
Are superfoods always the best choice?
A
No : local, seasonal produce (ideally organic) is preferable to exotic imports of superfoods
5
Q
Describe chlorophyll
A
A thing many super foods have in common : plants use it to trap light and produce ATP in the photosynthesis process
6
Q
What are the energetics of chlorophyll
A
Cooling, calming for Yang excess
7
Q
What are sources of chlorophyll?
A
Dark leafy green veggies (spinach, parsley, rocket) -> gives plants and algae their green colour
8
Q
What is the composition of chlorophyll?
A
The basic structure of chlorophyll is similar to haemoglobin : with a PORPHYRIN ring, but the central atom is magnesium instead of iron
9
Q
What is a porphyrin ring?
A
A type of organic compound that binds to metal ions
10
Q
What is chlorophyll a good source of?
A
Vit. A, C, E, K, magnesium, calcium, potassium
11
Q
Benefits and clinical application of chlorophyll
A
- Detoxification
- Antioxidant
- Reduces inflammation
- Supports energy production
- Promotes wound healing
- Deodorant properties
- Alkalising thanks to high alkaline mineral content
12
Q
How does chlorophyll contribute to detoxification?
A
- It can bind to certain carcinogenic chemicals (e.g. heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)
- Positively influences liver detox of carcinogens by down-regulating phase 1 enzymes and inducing phase 2
13
Q
How is chlorophyll antioxidant
A
Decreases oxidative damage by high antioxidant content and promotes endogenous antioxidant activity
14
Q
How does chlorophyll reduce inflammation
A
Inhibits the pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha gene -> this gene is activated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) released from bacteria (from intestinal bacterial infections or intestinal permeability)
15
Q
How does chlorophyll support energy production
A
Rich in magnesium, required for ATP production
16
Q
How does chlorophyll promote wound healing
A
Applied topically as a cream or ointment
17
Q
What is the practical use of chlorophyll
A
Eat chlorophyll rich foods raw or lightly steamed -> overcooking destroys chlorophyll
18
Q
What are chlorophyll supplements made of?
A
Usually chlorophyllin = a semi-synthetic mixture of sodium copper salts derived from chlorophyll -> magnesium is replaced with copper during synthesis
19
Q
Describe seaweed
A
Macroalgae can be classified into 3 major groups :
1. Red algae = dulse, nori, laver
2. Brown algae = kelp, bladderwrack, Wakame
3. Green algae = sea lettuce, sponge weed
20
Q
What is the energetics of seaweed?
A
Cooling, moistens dryness
21
Q
What is the composition of seaweed
A
Wide range of vitamins and minerals, particularly iodine, iron and calcium
22
Q
Nori is a great source of what?
A
B12, omega-3, amino acids
23
Q
Benefits and clinical application of seaweed
A
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Low thyroid function
- Healthy weight management
- Blood sugar control
- Elevated blood lipids
- Digestion and GIT health
24
Q
Why is seaweed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
A
FUCOXANTHIN = a carotenoid found in edible brow seaweed (e.g. wakame) -> powerful antioxidant effects
Seaweed reduces the production of inflammatory proteins (e.g. COX-2, NF-kB)
25
How does seaweed support thyroid function
High iodine content is useful for the production of T3 and T4 -> bladderwreck is the most therapeutically effective for low thyroid function -> rich in bioavailable iodine + other minerals and amino acids including tyrosine
26
How does seaweed support healthy weight management
Boost vitamins and minerals whilst low on calories
Fibre increase satiety + fucoxanthin up-regulates the expression of a key molecule in metabolic thermogenesis (mitochondrial uncoupling protein 1 - UCP1) —> decreases fat accumulation
27
How do seaweed support blood sugar control
Improves insulin sensitivity through its effect on tyrosine phosphatase enzyme, which enhances the effect of insulin
28
How does seaweed support the body get rid of elevated blood lipids
It reduces serum triglycerides and improves LDL : HDL ratio due to its GEL FORMING FIBRE, which binds to cholesterol in the intestinal lumen leading to increased cholesterol clearance
29
How does seaweed support digestion and GIT health
High in fibre :
- Enhances growth of beneficial bacteria (= support GI tight junctions)
- Supports bowel elimination
- Nourishes inflamed digestive tract
30
Uses of seaweed
Soups, curries, rice, salad, wrapped sushi -> aim for 1 tbsp x day as therapeutic dose
31
How can seaweed support beauty
Baths, body wraps, masks -> hydrating, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, can be effective x eczema, acne, psoriasis
32
Why is it important to choose organic seaweed
Can accumulate toxic metals (mercury, lead,…)
33
Describe (and name 3) microalgae (phytoplankton)
Freshwater, single-celled photosynthesising algae/bacteria
1. Blue-green algae
2. Spirulina
3. Chlorella
34
What is the energetic of microalgae
Cooling, moistens dryness
35
Microalgae composition
Particularly high in chlorophyll, iron and 50-70% complete protein
36
Composition of chlorella
- Source of bioavailable B12 and D2
- Lacks iodine
37
Describe spirulina
Spiral-shaped blue-green algae growing in both fresh and salt water -> lacks cellulose walls = easily digested
2 key species : arthrospiral platensis and arthrospira maxima
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Energetics of spirulina
For Yin deficiency or excess heat
39
Spirulina composition
60-70% bioavailable protein -> contains all essential amino acids + B1, B2, B3, A, K, beta-carotene, copper, zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium phycocyanin and chlorophyll
(Not a reliable source of B12 for vegans)
40
Benefits of spirulina and clinical application
1. Detoxification
2. Immune-enhancing
3. Anti-inflammatory
4. Anti-cancer
5. Exercise performance
6. Anti-allergenic effect
7. Anti-hypertensive
8. Positive effect on blood lipids
41
How does spirulina support detoxification
Act as biosorbent of heavy metals due to “ion-exchange binding”
42
How does spirulina enhance immunity
- Increases natural killer cell activity
- Anti-viral properties
43
Anti-inflammatory function of spirulina
- Reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines by inhibiting NF-kB pathway
- Phycocyanin in spirulina inhibits COX-2
44
Why is spirulina anti-cancer
Phycocyanin has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, immune-boosting and anti-proliferative effects
45
How does spirulina support exercise performance
- Increase endurance
- High amino acids content support muscle hypertrophy
46
What is the anti-allergenic effect of spirulina
In rhinitis, it inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells
47
Why is spirulina anti-hypertensive
Elevates nitric oxide production = vasodilation = reduces elevate blood pressure
48
Positive effect of spirulina on blood lipids
Lowers LDL and VLDL and triglycerides whilst increasing HDL
49
Suggested dosage for spirulina
1-8 g x day (1 tbsp = 7g)
50
Spirulina adverse effects
May induce diarrhoea, bloating, flautlence and oedema (at generally higher doses)
51
Describe chlorella
Single-celled green algae, similar to spirulina BUT has tough cellulose walls -> need to be pulverised to be made bioavailable
52
Energetic purpose of chlorella
For Yin deficiency or excess heat
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Composition of chlorella
- Highest amount of chlorophyll of any known plant
- 60% bioavailable protein
- Contains EFAs
- High D2
- Betacarotene
- B1, B2, B3, B6 and bioavailable B12 (220 mcg x 100g) -> safe x ppl on thyroxine (unlike seaweed)
- Magnesium, iron, phosphorus, zinc
54
Chlorella benefits and clinical applications
1. Heavy metal chelator
2. Detoxification
3. Anti-diabetic
4. Iron deficiency (and B12)
5. Cancer treatment
6. Oestrogen metabolism
7. Immune support
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Why is chlorella a metal chelator
It is able to bioaccumulate heavy metals (e.g. mercury, arsenic) + possibly able to remove mercury from sites (e.g. brain, kidneys)
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Chlorella in detoxification
Removes radioactive particles after radiation treatment
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Chlorella as an anti-diabetic / for insulin resistance
Improves glycemic control by influencing genes involved in insulin signalling and glucose uptake (GLUT4)
58
Chlorella in cancer treatment
- Reduces radiotherapy side effects
- Improves immune function
- Decreases infection risk after chemo
59
Chlorella in oestrogen metabolism
- Metabolises oestradiol (more potent than oestrogen) to less potent forms
- Degrades BPAs
60
Chlorella for immune support
Increases mucosal resistance to infection -> decreased risk of respiratory, gastrointestinal and genitourinary tract infections
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Dosage of chlorella
2-3 g daily (safe up to 10g)
GI symptoms at higher intake - generally brief
62
Heavy metal detox
Coriander’s phytochemicals can bind to and mobilise toxic heavy metals from CNS, and spirulina/chlorella can bind to it and excrete it from the body
63
Heavy metal 60 days protocol
1. Remove all sources of heavy metals
2. Throughout : drink plenty of water, have 3 EPSOM salt baths x week, dry brush 5 min every morning before shower, exercise regularly, intermitted fasting, optimise fibre
3. Day 1-14 : ensure healthy elimination pathways -> complete liver flush protocol + increase bitters
4. Chlorella tablets (500mg) :
- day 15-25 = 2 x 3 a day
- day 26-50 = 6 x 3 a day
- day 51-60 = 2 x 2 a day
5. Detox smoothie every 2 days = banana, blueberries, 1 cup coriander, 1 tsp spirulina, 1 handful dulse, water
64
Describe wheatgrass
Young grass of wheat plant -> can be eaten whole and raw / juiced / milled
65
Wheatgrass energetics
Cooling, cleanses toxins from body
66
Wheatgrass composition
Grass, roots and rhizome are used -> good sources are gluten free as are extracted before grain develops
67
Wheatgrass is a great source of
A, C, E, K, B, iron, calcium, magnesium, selenium, amino acids, chlorophyll, antioxidants (incl. phenolic compounds and flavonoids)
68
Wheatgrass benefits and applications
1. Antioxidant
2. Immune support
3. Alkalising
4. Regulate blood lipids
5. Weight loss
6. Detoxification
7. Digestion
69
Why is wheatgrass antioxidant
Phenolic and flavonoids compounds reduce oxidative stress = protect against chronic diseases
70
How does wheatgrass support immunity
- Anti-cancer properties
- Reduce chemotherapy side effects
- Beneficial for chronic disorders, including RA, ulcerative colitis, diabetes,…
71
Why is wheatgrass alkalising
High chlorophyll content
72
How does wheatgrass regulate blood lipids
Reduces serum triglycerides and LDL whilst increasing HDL
73
How can wheatgrass support weight loss
Reducing appetite and increasing hormonally-driven signals of satiety (e.g. CCK) + reduce cravings supporting blood sugar balance
74
How does wheatgrass support detoxification
Supporting liver detox pathways with abundance of nutrient and antioxidants
75
How does wheatgrass support digestion
Used in TCM to nourish spleen Qi => supports digestion and drains dampness
76
Describe barely grass
Similar nutrient and benefits as wheat grass and same energetic qualities
77
Barely grass composition
Rich in A, B1, C, E, calcium, potassium, selenium, enzymes (incl. superoxide dismutase = powerful antioxidant), antioxidants (phytochemicals incl. flavonoids and polyphenols), chlorophyll, amino acids (incl. GABA)
Particularly high in fibre
78
Barely grass benefits and clinical applications
1. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
2. Cardiovascular support
3. Diabetes
4. Gout
5. Support healthy GIT function
6. Promotes sleep and relaxation
7. Supports energy production
79
Why is barley grass antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
- Provides protection against chronic diseases
- Down-regulates pro-inflammatory TNF-alpha
80
Barley grass cardiovascular support
- Decreasing LDL and total cholesterol whilst increasing HDL
- Helps regulate blood pressure
- Associated with phytochemical SAPONARIN
- Rich mineral content (magnesium and potassium)
81
Barley grass and diabetes
High fibre content = reduce fasted blood sugar and glycated haemoglobin
82
Barley wheat and gout support
Increases urinary excretion of uric acid = reduces serum levels
83
Barley grass and healthy GIT function support
- Fibre to support bowel elimination
- Fibre nourish microflora
- Flavonoids reduce inflammation + allow mucous membrane healing (i.e. ulcerative colitis)
84
Barley grass promotes sleep and relaxation
- GABA content (also beneficial x anxiety)
- Tryptophan (serotonin and melatonin precursor)
85
Barley grass supports energy production
It contains
- ENZYMES involved in mitochondrial function (incl. cytochrome oxidase)
- FLAVONOIDS such as lutonarin and saponarin improve oxygenation of tissues and reduce fatigue
86
Describe sprouts
Seeds that have germinated and put out shoots : plants have their highest levels of vitamins, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants in this stage of their lifecycle
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Energetics of sprouts
Cooling
89
Composition of sprouts
Different sprouts have different natural profiles, but generally a rich source of protein, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, vit. C, K, folate, chlorophyll, EFAs, antioxidants and fibre
*sprouting increases protein concentration
*anti-nutrients (e.g. phytates) are reduced with sprouting = nutrients more bioavailable
90
Sprouts’ benefits and clinical application
1. Support digestion
2. Blood glucose control
91
Sprouts and digestion support
Sprouting releases enzymes that predigest nutrients in seed = easier to assimilate and metabolise
Insoluble fibre supports intestinal elimination
92
Sprouts and blood glucose control
- Improve blood glucose balance in insulin resistance and T2DM due to high fibre content
- Regulates amylase activity = decreased glucose absorption
- Antioxidants (e.g. sulforaphane) protective against diabetic complications
93
Why should you be careful with sprouts
They grow in warm humid conditions = prone to bacterial contamination -> need to be stored refrigerated + extra care if pregnant/immune compromised
Alfalfa contain L-canavanine -> linked to lupus exacerbation
94
What is contained in broccoli sprouts
Sulphur compounds called GLUCOSINOLATES
95
What therapeutic compounds do glucosinolates in brassica produce
1. Sulforaphane
2. I3C
(20-50 x more abundant in sprouts)
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What does I3C do
Promotes phase 2 liver detox + support livers’ deactivation of oestrogen -> aim to 50g x day in cases of oestrogen dominance (e.g. endometriosis, fibroids,…)
97
Benefits of sulforaphane
1. Down-regulates phase 1 liver enzymes, induces phase 2 detox enzymes
2. Anti-inflammatory by NF-he and TNF-alpha inhibition
3. Anti-carcinogenic :
- Expression of p21 tumour suppressing gene
- Phase 2 enhancement = detox + elimination of activated carcinogens
- Increase antioxidant defence
- Inhibit angiogenesis
98
Benefits and clinical applications of broccoli sprouts
1. CDV disease
2. Respiratory health
3. Helicobacter pylori infection
99
Broccoli sprouts and CDV disease
Decreases risk by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage leading to endothelial dysfunction
Lowers LDL increases HDL
100
Broccoli sprouts and respiratory health
Promotes detox of environmental toxins from lungs (via phase 2 enzymes expressed in lung cells) = reduction of associated upper airway inflammation
101
Broccoli sprouts and helicobacter pylori
Helps eradicating it + protect gastric mucosa
102
Describe bee pollen
Made by honeybees that collect flower pollen, mix it with nectar from honey sacs and deliver it to the hive, where enzymes are added -> becomes key food source for the colony
103
Energetics of bee pollen
Yang, sweet, warming
104
Bee pollen composition
- Protein (30% essential fatty acids)
- Carbohydrates (30% polysaccharides)
- Fatty acids
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Enzymes
- Phytonutrients incl. flavonoids and phenolic acids (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory)
105
Bee pollen benefits and clinical application
1. Antioxidant
2. Anti-inflammatory
3. CDV health
4. Aids recovery
5. Anti-allergic activity
106
Anti-inflammatory properties of bee pollen
Inhibits inflammatory enzymes COX and LOX
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Bee pollen and CDV health
Decreases LDL and lipid oxidation
108
Bee pollen and recovery support
Adaptogenic properties = increases resistance to stress
109
Bee pollen’s anti-allergic activity
Inhibits histamine release from mast cells
“Like for like” -> used to treat hay fever -> 1-2 tsp x day at least 4 weeks before season starts
Caution : discontinue use if itchy, swelling, shortness of breath + avoid in pregnancy x uterine-stimulant effects
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What are whole grains made of
Barn = contains antioxidants, Bs and fibre
Germ = contains Bs, E, some protein, antioxidants, minerals and healthy fats
Endosperm = contains carbs and proteins
112
What are refined grains made of
Only endosperm (barn and germ removed)
113
Energetics of whole grains
Neutral
114
Whole grains’ benefits and clinical applications
1. Decrease metabolic risk factor -> fibre and magnesium = improved insulin sensitivity
2. High fibre = support bowel elimination + increase satiety
3. Protective against heart disease and cancer
115
Where is gluten found
Wheat, rye and barley
116
What proteins is gluten made of
Gliadin and glutenin
Gliadin is the one most react to
117
What is coeliac disease
An immune condition where gluten ingestion = abnormal immune response in small intestine mucosa
118
What is gluten sensitivity
Intolerance to gluten : may be due to digestive issues or grains’ processing
119
What is the problem with gluten?
GRAIN PROCESSING
- Grains’ manipulation x high yields and disease resistance at the expense of nutrient value and safety
- Grains are fumigated, bleached, treated with anti-cracking agents and sprayed with fungicides to extend shelf life
120
Practical use of grains
Gluten alternatives : amaranth, corn, teff, millet, rice, quinoa, buckwheat, oats
Quinoa : high in protein (complete), manganese, magnesium, iron, zinc, phytonutrients
Sprouting grains increase nutrient bioavailability
121
Energetics of garlic
Hot, dry, pungent, spicy
122
What is allicin?
An organosulphur compound = oily, yellow liquid giving garlic taste and odour
123
What is allin?
A compound found in garlic : when crushed releases enzyme alliinase, converting ALLIN -> ALLICIN (active compound)
124
Garlic composition
Allin (alliinase -> allicin) + fructans (prebiotic oligosaccharides), manganese, calcium, selenium, vit. C
125
Benefits and clinical applications of garlic
1. Immunity
2. Digestive health
3. Anti-inflammatory
4. CDV health
5. Detoxification and anti-cancer
126
Garlic and immunity
Anti-microbial, garlic increases interferons and macrophages
- Dental infection/thrush -> chew peeled clove
- Athletes foot -> rub crushed garlic on area
- Ear infection -> 2-3 drops of warm garlic oil into affected area and lay on side 10-15 min
127
Garlic and digestive health
Warming properties = stimulate digestive fire
Support GIT microbial balance
128
Garlic anti-inflammatory properties
Inhibits COX, LOX and NF-kB
129
Garlic and CDV health
- Increase nitric oxide = anti-hypertensive
- Decrease arterial calcification
- Reduce LDL and its oxidation
- Anti-coagulant properties = improve blood circulation
130
Garlic in detoxification and as anti cancer
- Inhibits phase 1 and promotes phase 2
- Stimulates synthesis of superoxidase dismutase and glutathione peroxidase
131
Practical advice for garlic
Crush/slice -> leave x 10 min before cooking -> add in final minute of cooking not to inactivate alliinase
132
When can garlic supplementation be useful
Anti-microbial properties, especially in cases of dysbiosis (e.g. candida, SIBO)
(Careful with platelet medication/before surgery)
133
Energetics of ginger
Dry = hot
Fresh = warm, dry
134
Ginger composition
Volatile oils and compounds called GINGEROLS
135
Ginger dose and delivery
Cooking/tea
Capsules : split the dose if used for anti-microbial/anti-inflammatory purposes (e.g. 400 mg 3 x day)
136
Ginger’s benefits and clinical applications
1. Anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory : inhibits COX, LOX and TNF-alpha (effective for inflammatory joint pain)
2. Anti-nausea agent : associated with carminative effects (use fresh)
3. CDV health : circulatory stimulant + lowers LDL
137
Energetics of beets
Gently warming, sweet
138
Beetroot’s composition
Iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, vit. C, B3, folate, phytochemicals incl. BETALAIN pigments
+ organic nitrates -> nitric oxide
139
Beetroot’s benefits and clinical applications
1. Improve exercise performance
2. Antioxidant
3. Anti-inflammatory
4. Detoxification
5. CDV health
6. Methylation
140
How does beetroot improve exercise performance
Inorganic nitrates improve oxygen use + stamina during exercise
141
Why is beetroot antioxidant
Due to betalains, carotenoids and vit. C
142
Why is beetroot anti-inflammatory
Betalains inhibits cyclooxygenases
143
How does beetroot contribute to detoxification
Betalains support phase 2 liver detox
144
Beetroots and CDV health
Inorganic nitrates are converted into nitric oxide in the body = vasodilation = lowered blood pressure
Betalains inhibit LDL oxidation associated with atherosclerosis
145
How does beetroot support methylation
Betalains = methyl donor
146
Practical use of beetroot
Juicing x a concentration of nutrients
- Hypertension/liver support = 1 glass x day
- Cancer = 2-4 glasses
- Improve performance = 30 min before exercise
General wellbeing/energy : best eaten raw / lightly steamed if digestive issues
147
Blueberries composition
Vit. C, K, fibre, phytonutrients incl. ellagitannis, flavonoids, resveratrol, anthocyanins
148
Energetics of blueberries
Cooling
149
Blueberries benefits and clinical applications
1. Anti-inflammatory
2. Antioxidant
3. Anti-cancer
150
Anti-inflammatory function of blueberries
Polyphenol suppress mediators of acute inflammation, e.g. COX-2
151
Antioxidant function of blueberries
Protective against oxidative stress and collagen support (e.g. vessels)
152
Anti-cancer function of blueberries
Antioxidant + immune boosting = tumour suppressing and anti-proliferative properties
153
Elderberry composition
Vit. C, anthocyanin and quercetin
154
Elderberry energetics
Cooling and bitter
155
Elderberry benefits and properties
1. Immune boosting -> anti-viral properties
2. Diaphoretic = promotes sweating -> support fever
156
Should elderberries be eaten raw?
NO! High alkaloid content
157
Cranberry composition
Proanthocyanins, vit. C, flavonoids incl. quercetin, manganese, copper, vit. E, K, B5 and B6
158
Cranberry energetics
Cooling, sweet, nutritive
159
Cranberry benefits and properties
1. Urinary antiseptic
2. Treatment of helicobacter pylori
3. CDV health
160
Cranberry as an urinary antiseptic
Useful in both prevention and treatment
Escherichia coil (bacteria associated with UTIs) contain fimbrae to enable epithelial attachment -> cranberry prevents this attachment
161
Cranberry in the treatment of helicobacter pylori
Its anti-adhesive properties are beneficial in the stomach with H. Pylori
162
Cranberry and CDV health
Can reduce blood pressure and oxidative stress due to antioxidants e.g. anthocyanins
163
Practical use of cranberry
- Fresh berries for general health (juice, smoothies,…)
- Capsules dried powder
- Avoid commercial juices (sugar aggravates UTIs)
Avoid in case of kidney stones!
164
Energetics of chia seeds
Cooling, moistening
165
Chia seeds composition
- Highest plant sources of omega3 (alpha linoleic acid)
- Fibre
- Calcium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, magnesium, iron, manganese
- High quality protein
- Antioxidants
- Mucilage
166
Chia benefits and clinical applications
1. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
2. Blood sugar regulation
3. Digestive support
4. CDV health
167
Chia as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
Antioxidant profile includes TOCOPHENOLS and PHENOLIC compounds -> reduce oxidative stress
Omega 3 content reduces inflammation
168
Chia and blood sugar regulation
Fibre content =
Decrease postprandial glycaemia
Prolongs satiety
169
Chia for digestive support
High in soluble + insoluble fibre = increase stool bulk
Mucilage = soothes GI mucosa
170
Chia and CDV health
- Reduces LDL
- Reduces lipid peroxidation
171
Is there any interaction between chia and medications?
Mucilage may decrease medications absorption -> take 2 h apart
172
Pomegranate energetics
Neutral, tonifies Yin
173
Pomegranate composition
Vit. A, C, K, folate, iron, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc
Phytonutrients :
- Ellagitannis
- Punicic acid
- Anthocyanins
174
Pomegranate benefits and clinical application
1. CDV health
2. Antioxidant
3. Anti-carcinogenic
175
Pomegranate and CDV health
Reduce systolic and diastolic BP in hypertensive patients
-> due to its phytochemicals + nitric oxide forming properties
+ antioxidant content protects endothelium and decreases LDL oxidation associated
176
Pomegranate as anticarcinogenic
Ellagitannis, anthocyanins and phenols decrease expression of COX-2 -> reduce proliferation of cancer cells, induce apoptosis and reduce inflammation
177
Is there any interaction with pomegranate?
Caution with large, regular intake for those on warfarin/hypertensive medication as it may decrease the medication requirements
178
Maca energetics
Warm, sweet, moist, Yin
179
Maca composition
Iron, copper, manganese, potassium, calcium, vit. B2, B3, B6
Source of protein (all essential amino acids)
High in fibre
Phytochemicals
Linoleic and oleic fatty acids
180
Maca benefits and application
1. Fertility and sexual function
2. Energy and cognition
181
Maca for fertility and secual function
Increases libido, protects against BPH, improves erectile dysfunction, increases sperm count, motility and semen volume
Does NOT affect serum testosterone/oestradiol levels BUT can interfere with androgens receptors
Aphrodisiac properties related to lipids called MACAMIDES
182
Maca and energy
Associated with warming and energetics properties (useful for performance and fatigue)
