Nutrition – Page 2 – Juice Health Benefits & Recipes

15 Feb

15 Health Benefits of Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit is naturally high in vitamin C, vitamin A, lycopene, pectin, limonoids, and also contains many other health boosting nutrients in varying amounts and the consequence of all this nutrients are the numerous health benefits of grapefruit juice. You are what you eat. Like with any nutrient dense natural food, consuming grapefruit will be far more beneficial to your health than the high fat, high salt, and empty calories of so many staples of the American diet. The evidence that this fruit can also help prevent or even improve a number of serious health issues is well documented in numerous formal studies. Below is a list of many of the health issues it is known to have a positive impact on, accompanied by a brief description.

A List Of Health Benefits Of Grapefruit Juice

Appetite control

Pectin and other nutrients in grapefruit help you feel full and satisfied. This can help you resist the temptation to snack on unhealthy junk food and thus help you stick to a generally healthier diet.

Hydration

The high water content combined with pectin and other nutrients helps keep you adequately hydrated. This also aids in appetite control since many people mistake thirst for hunger and then eat when they really need to just drink something.

Helps reduce fatigue

Many people find it helps combat a feeling of fatigue. This is most likely due at least in part to keeping you hydrated and also in part due to the fact it is a generally nutrient dense food. The general recommendation is to drink a mix of grapefruit and lemon juice just before bedtime.

Weight loss

In part because it helps control appetite and helps keep you hydrated, grapefruit is well known to aid in weight loss. It is also low in calories.

Stabilizes blood sugar levels

Pectin helps stabilize blood sugar. This is beneficial for anyone with any blood sugar disorder, including diabetes, cystic fibrosis related diabetes (CFRD), and functional hypoglycemia.

Liver tonic

It is known to help cleanse the liver, which can help the body cope more effectively with recovery from medication withdrawal, metal poisoning, and any other issue that puts stress on the liver.

Protects against prostate cancer

Numerous sources cite the benefits of naringenin in helping reduce the risk of prostate cancer. This substance is known to help the body repair damaged DNA, which is an important factor in this particular form of cancer. The high lycopene content is another reason it helps protect the body against developing prostate cancer.

Protects against colon cancer

The high levels of vitamin C are particularly helpful in reducing the risk of getting colon cancer.

Protects against other cancers generally

Grapefruit is rich in antioxidants which combat free radicals in the body, thus reducing the risk of developing cancers of all kinds.

Grapefruit helps protect against the flu and other viral infections

Grapefruit helps correct the PH balance of the body. Viral infections do not thrive in a body that has the correct PH value. Thus it helps protect against and kill off viral infections, including the flu and the common cold.

Helps protect against high cholesterol levels

It helps reduce blood levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and thus slows the progression of atherosclerosis.

Helps prevent gallstones and kidney stones

A study in the “British Journal of Nutrition” found that grapefruit helps reduce the risk of forming calcium oxalate stones.

Helps alleviate the symptoms of various inflammatory disorders, some of which are quite debilitating conditions

This fruit has anti-inflammatory properties which helps relieve the symptoms of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. It’s positive impact on PH balance is one of the reasons it works as an anti-inflammatory.

Relieves arthritis

Helps the body remove inorganic calcium which can accumulate in the joints. This is a factor in arthritis. Arthritis is also an inflammatory condition, thus it also benefits from the various anti-inflammatory properties of this fruit.

Helps alleviate fever

It is helpful in bringing down fever and making you more comfortable during a fever, possibly due to improved hydration.

These were fifteen most common and well known health benefits of grapefruit juice. Since this juice is really easy to make and since grapefruits are easily obtainable there is no reason why you don’t make yourself a glass of fresh homemade grapefruit juice every once in a while.

29 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)?

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)

Pyridoxine is the most common of the seven forms of vitamin B6. In supplement form, the vitamin is water-soluble and can be found in many foods we eat. It is a member of the key family of vitamins, B-complex. The many benefits of these key vitamins affect crucial body systems.

The Role Of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) In Our Body

Together with B12, B6 creates red blood cells and other cells necessary in the immune system.

While vitamin B6 deficiency is rare, when it does occur symptoms include muscle weakness, nervousness and irritability. Severe deficiencies can result in short term memory loss and inability to concentrate on simple tasks.

B complex vitamins all work to help our bodies metabolize fat and protein. B6 is also highly involved in aiding nervous system function and contribute greatly to healthy hair, skin and eyes.

Since water-soluble vitamins aren’t stored in the body, daily intake is important to keep enough B6 in the system for good health. Of particular interest is a recent study that suggests people with heart disease do not get enough B6 in their diet. While the direct correlation is still unknown, doctors suggest making sure to get enough B6 for heart health. A large study has shown that 500mg of B6 with 1000mg of B12 taken daily significantly reduces the risk of age related macular degeneration, a condition that leads to blindness.

B6 also helps the body produce serotonin, an important key in depression prevention. Another amazing function of B6 is the ability to reduce inflammation. This ability benefits many sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis and carpel tunnel syndrome.

There can be too much of a good thing. At very high dosages of B6, side effects can include skin rash, nausea, abdominal pain, imbalance and numbness of legs and toes. The good news is that by ceasing excessive use, typically all side effects will fade within 6 months time.

Top Fruits For Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Content

The amounts of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Banana 0,37 mg
2 Jackfruit 0,33 mg
3 Durian 0,32 mg
4 Blackberry 0,30 mg
5 Carrot 0,14 mg
6 Mango 0,13 mg
7 Fig 0,11 mg
8 Pineapple 0,11 mg
9 Guava 0,11 mg
10 Kiwi 0,10 mg
11 Lychee 0,10 mg
12 Passion Fruit 0,10 mg
13 Cranberry 0,10 mg
14 Grape 0,09 mg
15 Lemon 0,08 mg
16 Tomato 0,08 mg
17 Tangerine 0,08 mg
18 Pomegranate 0,08 mg
19 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,07 mg
20 Redcurrant 0,07 mg
21 Blackcurrant 0,07 mg
22 Pumpkin 0,06 mg
23 Orange 0,06 mg
24 Raspberry 0,06 mg
25 Apricot 0,05 mg
26 Grapefruit 0,05 mg
27 Blueberry 0,05 mg
28 Mulberry 0,05 mg
29 Cherry (sweet) 0,05 mg
30 Watermelon 0,05 mg
31 Apple 0,04 mg
32 Mangosteen 0,04 mg
33 Cucumber 0,04 mg
34 Plum 0,03 mg
35 Pear 0,03 mg
36 Peach 0,03 mg
37 Papaya 0,02 mg

27 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Folate (Vitamin B)?

What Is Folate?

Folate is a B vitamin that easily dissolves in water. It occurs mostly in foods such as leafy greens and grains, and it can also be converted into a supplement known as folic acid. The name folate derives from the Latin word “folium”, which means leaf. Adults and children require folate in their bodies to improve cellular health. This specific B vitamin also reportedly benefits cardiovascular health and mental well-being, to name a few.

Folate In Our Body

Growth and cell division are among the most vital functions necessary for healthy children and adults, with special attention paid to pregnant and nursing women. Folate lays the foundation to produce the building blocks of cells known as DNA and RNA. The vitamin helps to generate new, healthy cells within the body and make healthy red blood cells that block the onset of anemia, which is a condition that causes blood loss and fatigue. In addition to building DNA and RNA, folate also helps defend against any abnormalities that may cause cancer. It also works with homocysteine levels in the body by metabolizing the amino acid and therefore preventing cardiovascular problems such as hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, heart attacks and blood clots.

Folate gets absorbed into the body through the consumption of foods like spinach, broccoli and romaine lettuce. Grains like rice and cereals also carry significant amounts of folate, as well as citrus fruits like oranges.

Folic acid supplements are often reserved for pregnant women or those with folate deficiencies. Experts recommend a daily intake of 400 micrograms for adults; 150 to 300 micrograms for children up to age 13; 600 micrograms for pregnant women and 500 micrograms for breastfeeding women.

Side effects have also been reported, particularly in patients who take other medications or supplements. For example, folate may cause a blood pressure or blood sugar drop. Therefore, adjustments may be made to the patient’s medication schedule. Symptoms such as bloating, cramps and nausea may also occur from taking too much folate.

Which Fruit Has The Most Vitamin K?

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a group of vitamins that are stored in the body’s fat and liver. Discovered in 1929 by a Danish scientist, two natural forms of vitamin K exist, vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. Our bodies use vitamin K in blood coagulation and bone metabolism. A vitamin K deficiency is rare, although some medications, such as antibiotics, can suppress vitamin K temporarily. Newborn babies receive vitamin K injections as a preventative action against bleeding. Besides getting vitamin K in food, the human gut also makes vitamin K, which is why vitamin K deficiencies are rare.

Vitamin K’s Role in Human Health

Vitamin K’s role in human health is to prevent excessive bleeding. Vitamin K also uses calcium to build strong bones, reducing the risk of bone fractures. People with high levels of vitamin K have thicker, stronger bones than those with lower levels of the vitamin. People with excessive bleeding, easy bruising or showing signs of bone weakening should eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin K, such as grapes, avocados, kiwis, blueberries and dark-green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.

Eating fruits and vegetables with lots of vitamin K will allow blood to clot, help prevent postmenopausal bone density loss and bone fractures and protect the body’s arteries from calcification. Some research has revealed that vitamin K may also protect against prostate and liver cancers. People taking certain medications, including antibiotics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, seizure drugs and weight loss drugs should consult with medical professionals before taking vitamin K supplements or eating vitamin K-rich foods. Possible interactions between vitamin K and the above medications can occur.

Taking too much vitamin K is usually not a problem as there is no known toxicity with vitamin K. Large doses of the vitamin, however, may cause tingling in the hands or feet as well as numbness.

Which Fruit Has The Most Thiamine (Vitamin B1)?

What is Thiamine (Vitamin B1)?

Also known as vitamin B1, Thiamine is a nutrient that helps the body process sugars and is key to a properly functioning nervous system.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) In Our Body

Thiamine is water soluble, so it must be replenished or the body will become deficient with in two weeks. Without sufficient levels of this vitamin, the brain doesn’t function well and serious problems with the nerves, muscles, heart and digestive system can result. Psychosis, weakness and fatigue are among the symptoms that often lead to a diagnosis.

The amount of thiamine a person needs depends on age and gender. Generally, adults need more thiamine than children, especially women who are either pregnant or breastfeeding a child. The USDA has recommendations for daily intake of Thiamine that – if followed – can prevent people from developing complications from its deficiency.

Some people with special conditions such as anorexia, Crohn’s disease, alcoholism or kidney problems requiring dialysis are among the ones most commonly found without enough thiamine in their body. Some people are allergic to thiamine and therefore require special treatment.

Thiamine is sometimes prescribed for people with a deficiency or who are affected by certain metabolic disorders and deficiency symptoms, but most people can get enough of this nutrient through a balanced diet. Milk, beef, brewer’s yeast, oats, seeds, wheat, fortified flour and fortified rice are among the many sources for thiamine. It is also available as a table either by itself or as part of a multivitamin supplement.

Overdose conditions of thiamine are rare because it is a water-soluble nutrient. However, it can cause a form of shock, especially when injected, and can result in breathing problems, nausea, restlessness and – in extreme cases – death.

Top Fruits For Thiamine (Vitamin B1) Content

The amounts of Thiamine (Vitamin B1) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Durian 0,40 mg
2 Jackfruit 0,11 mg
3 Pumpkin 0,10 mg
4 Orange 0,10 mg
5 Grape 0,10 mg
6 Elderberry 0,10 mg
7 Mango 0,10 mg
8 Guava 0,10 mg
9 Blackcurrant 0,10 mg
10 Mangosteen 0,10 mg
11 Pomegranate 0,10 mg
12 Fig 0,10 mg
13 Tangerine 0,06 mg
14 Lemon 0,04 mg
15 Tomato 0,04 mg
16 Watermelon 0,03 mg
17 Banana 0,03 mg
18 Kiwi 0,03 mg
19 Cucumber 0,03 mg
20 Cranberry 0,02 mg

22 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)?

The importance of having a balanced diet continues to make headlines in medical journals. A diet that provides all of the nutritional daily needs should include fruits, vegetables and low-fat proteins that supply a full spectrum of vitamins including the vital riboflavin vitamin B2. This important nutritional element helps prevent disorders related to the skin and eyes and reduces the risk of hair loss, lesions and inflammation. Riboflavin is a key factor in regulating metabolism and can affect a person’s energy level and their ability to concentrate. Including vitamin B2 in the diet by consuming natural foods is an important part of ensuring a healthy daily nutrition routine.

Benefits of Riboflavin Vitamin B2

One of the main benefits of riboflavin, or vitamin B2, includes the ability of this element to convert carbohydrates to sugars which provide energy for our daily activities. When the vitamin is absorbed, it helps form healthy red blood cells that continually nourish the body. The immune system is also enhanced by protecting against free-radical damage. Both children and adults need to maintain the minimum daily requirement of vitamin B2 to ensure overall good health.

Other benefits found from riboflavin include improved skin and hair texture. Eating foods rich in riboflavin helps prevent cataracts and acts as an anti-aging medium.

Health Risks from Deficiencies from Riboflavin Vitamin B2

Having an insufficient supply of riboflavin can lead to disorders that range from mild to severe. People under stress are often affected by the lack of vitamin B2 and may have difficulty sleeping or experience a lack of energy. During pregnancy, sufficient amounts of vitamin B2 helps prevent damage to the unborn fetus. Skin lesions are another symptom from riboflavin deficiencies as is hair loss. Migraine headache sufferers may have a riboflavin deficiency that is correctable by changing dietary habits.

Top Fruits For Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Content

The amounts of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Durian 0,20 mg
2 Cranberry 0,20 mg
3 Pumpkin 0,10 mg
4 Lychee 0,10 mg
5 Redcurrant 0,10 mg
6 Grape 0,10 mg
7 Mulberry 0,10 mg
8 Elderberry 0,10 mg
9 Passion Fruit 0,10 mg
10 Mango 0,10 mg
11 Blackcurrant 0,10 mg
12 Mangosteen 0,10 mg
13 Pomegranate 0,10 mg
14 Fig 0,10 mg
15 Banana 0,07 mg
16 Jackfruit 0,06 mg
17 Tangerine 0,04 mg
18 Grapefruit 0,03 mg
19 Cucumber 0,03 mg
20 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,03 mg
21 Kiwi 0,03 mg
22 Lemon 0,02 mg
23 Pineapple 0,02 mg
24 Blueberry 0,00
25 Plum 0,00
26 Watermelon 0,00
27 Cherry (sweet) 0,00
28 Papaya 0,00
29 Peach 0,00
30 Strawberry 0,00
31 Orange 0,00
32 Apple 0,00
33 Pear 0,00
34 Lime 0,00
35 Gooseberry 0,00
36 Raspberry 0,00
37 Guava 0,00
38 Blackberry 0,00
39 Carrot 0,00
40 Tomato 0,00
41 Apricot 0,00

21 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Phosphorus?

Phosphorus

Phosphorus is both a chemical element and a mineral nutrient that is vital to human, animal and plant life. Phosphates are salts that contain phosphorus and other minerals. Phosphorus derivatives and compounds are used commercially as components of fertilizer and also as food additives and leavening agents. Most of the foods we eat contain phosphorus.

Phosphorus In Our Body

Phosphorus is second only to calcium as the most plentiful mineral in the human body. Eighty-five percent of phosphorus is found in bones and teeth, but it is present in every cell of the body. It is even found in bodily fluids, cell membranes and DNA. The presence of phosphorus is necessary for the utilization of other nutrients such as: calcium, magnesium, iron, sodium and potassium.

Phosphorus is essential to many bodily functions. Its main purpose is to combine with calcium and assist the formation of healthy bones. Phosphorus also enables the body to convert carbohydrates into energy, helps synthesize proteins and aids in both the growth and repair of cells and tissues. It helps maintain a regular heartbeat and also assists in muscle contraction, kidney function and nerve conduction.

The recommended intake of phosphorus for a healthy adult is 700mg per day. Since most foods contain this mineral, deficiency is uncommon. However, certain medications, calcium carbonate supplements and antacids can cause low phosphorus levels. Deficiency may result in weight loss, poor bone growth, bone pain, poor nerve and brain function, skin sensitivity and brittle hair and nails.

The kidneys rid the body of excess phosphorus, so toxic levels are not common in those with healthy kidneys. An excess of carbonated drinks in the diet can lead to higher than normal levels; this may increase the risk of heart disease and cause brittle bones and diarrhea.

Which Fruit Has The Most Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)?

What Is Pantothenic Acid?

Pantothenic Acid is a water-soluble vitamin that we do not synthesize in our own bodies. Panothenic acid, also called Vitamin B5, must be obtained from dietary sources. Pantothenic acid is chemically an amide, a specific type of nitrogen-containing chemical. It is important for the synthesis of biologically active compounds in the body.

The most important role of panthothenic acid is in the synthesis of a chemical called coenzyme A, or CoA. Coenzyme A is a chemical that is involved in multiple important metabolic pathways, including fatty acid oxidation and the citric acid cycle. The citric acid cycle, also called the Krebs cycle or the tricarboxylic acid cycle, is a metabolic pathway that is used to generate energy in all aerobic (oxygen-using) organisms.

Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) In Our Body

The name “pantothenic acid” refers to the chemical’s presence in a wide range of sources. A deficiency of Vitamin B5 is extremely rare due to the easy availability of the vitamin in almost all food sources. However, Vitamin B5 supplements are manufactured. The documented cases of pantothenic acid deficiency have mostly been in experimental settings and in victims of starvation. The main effects of such a deficiency include fatigue due to decreased energy, neuropathy, muscle cramps, abdominal pain and hypoglycemia. These symptoms are usually reversed when the person with the deficiency replaces the pantothenic acid in their diet.

A toxic dosage for pantothenic acid has not been determined. The vitamin is water-soluble, meaning that it is excreted in urine if there is an excess of the vitamin in the body.

Top Fruits For Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) Content

The amounts of Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Guava 0,50 mg
2 Blackcurrant 0,40 mg
3 Carrot 0,40 mg
4 Pomegranate 0,40 mg
5 Banana 0,33 mg
6 Pumpkin 0,30 mg
7 Orange 0,30 mg
8 Grapefruit 0,30 mg
9 Gooseberry 0,30 mg
10 Raspberry 0,30 mg
11 Blackberry 0,30 mg
12 Cranberry 0,30 mg
13 Fig 0,30 mg
14 Cucumber 0,27 mg
15 Watermelon 0,22 mg
16 Kiwi 0,20 mg
17 Cherry (sweet) 0,20 mg
18 Papaya 0,20 mg
19 Peach 0,20 mg
20 Lime 0,20 mg
21 Mango 0,20 mg
22 Tangerine 0,20 mg
23 Durian 0,20 mg
24 Tomato 0,20 mg
25 Apricot 0,20 mg
26 Lemon 0,19 mg
27 Strawberry 0,13 mg
28 Blueberry 0,10 mg
29 Plum 0,10 mg
30 Pineapple 0,10 mg
31 Redcurrant 0,10 mg
32 Apple 0,10 mg
33 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,10 mg
34 Elderberry 0,10 mg
35 Pear 0,10 mg
36 Lychee 0,00
37 Jackfruit 0,00
38 Grape 0,00
39 Mulberry 0,00
40 Passion Fruit 0,00
41 Mangosteen 0,00

20 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Niacin (Vitamin B3)?

One of the most important nutrients for the body is Niacine. For proper nutrition, a daily intake of niacin is recommended. The recommended dosage will vary according to age. For pregnant women or those who are breast-feeding, recommended dosage is eighteen milligrams a day. Adult men should get sixteen milligrams per day, the daily requirement for adult women is fourteen milligrams, and the required dosage for children is between two, and twelve milligrams each day.

What Is Niacin (Vitamin B3)?

Niacin, which is a B Vitamin, is also known as nicotinic acid. This organic compound is a natural substance found in plants, and is widely used as a nutritional supplement. It is water soluble and easy for the body to digest. Generally recognized as Vitamin B3, niacin is found in a wide range of foods like sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, peanuts, tuna, liver, wheat bran, rice bran, and chicken. Niacin is also found in yeast extract and paprika. One teaspoon of paprika supplies five percent of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for niacin.

How Niacin Helps The Body

Niacin is needed to help the body process fat. It has been used to regulate levels of blood sugar, and lower cholesterol. A deficiency in niacin can lead to a number of health related problems such as depression, anxiety, and fatigue. In cases of severe niacin deficiencies, patients can suffer from a disease known as pellagra. This is a serious vitamin deficiency disease that is accompanied by dementia, dermatitis, diarrhea, and death if left untreated. Pellagra is often found in patients who suffer from long-term alcoholism.

While niacin tablets are a commonly used supplement, those who are interested should consult their doctor or health care provider. Follow the pharmacy or label directions, and only take the daily allowance that has been prescribed by your doctor.

Which Fruit Has The Most Choline?

What Is Choline?

Choline, which is found in every cell in the human body, is a newly recognized type of B vitamin. In 1998, the National Academy of Sciences established adequate intake (AI) levels for choline: between 425 and 550 mg daily for adults, and between 150 and 300 mg daily for children. The average dietary intake of choline is between 200 and 600 mg daily. Choline is available in supplement form or from foods, including egg yolks, soybeans, spinach, whole wheat, bananas and oranges.

Choline In Our Bodies

Cell membranes

Cells need choline for cell membrane health and for the transport of fat molecules through cell membranes. Choline can modify fat molecules so that they can combine with water and flow through the bloodstream. Cell membranes, which are made up of fats, need choline to maintain flexibility and strength.

Nervous system

The nervous system needs choline for the communication between nerve cells. A key chemical in this transfer of messages is acetylcholine, which contains choline. Research suggest that choline may be useful in treating and preventing brain and nerve disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease in adults and neural tube defects in babies.

Liver

Choline’s ability to modify fat molecules makes it an important factor in liver health. As choline promotes the transport of fat molecules, it helps to prevent fat accumulation in the liver. Therefore, choline may help to prevent cirrhosis and other liver disorders.

Deficiency

Choline deficiency is associated with increased levels of inflammatory markers, and with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, type-2 diabetes, osteoporosis and other inflammatory disorders. Choline deficiency may also lead to anemia, nerve disorders and folic acid deficiency.

Overdose

Excessive choline intake can cause toxicity symptoms and side effects, including low blood pressure, dizziness, body odor and sweating. Adults should not take more than 3.5 grams in one day.