Category Archives: Longevity Medicine

Increased intake of selenium through natural methods may reduce the risk of bladder cancer according to recent studies.

Selenium is one of the most commonly found nutrients in plants and animals. Despite its toxicity in high levels, selenium is an essential micronutrient for animals, plants and humans. It occurs as an inactive substance in plants and only serves as a defense from being eaten by animals. But some plants also require selenium to grow, and the growth of such plants like locoweed is an indication of selenium deposits in the soil where it grows. Selenium is a trace element in humans and functions primarily as a co-factor for the thyroid gland in the production of needed hormones.

According to the findings of the Genetic and Molecular Epidemiology Group at the Spanish National Cancer Research Center led by Dr. Nuria Malats, increased selenium intake shows significant effects in the reduction of bladder cancer risk. The study was a meta-analysis of seven published studies on selenium and bladder cancer and also suggested that the efficacy of selenium is affected by gender; women showed a variance of selenium excretion and accumulation to mm, and women being more susceptible to selenium’s protective value against bladder cancer.

Selenium is an essential micronutrient in humans and is generally treated and used as an antioxidant. Several studies have been dedicated to the discovery of selenium’s health benefits and preventive value against cancer in general.  Results have shown that aside from bladder cancer risk reduction, high levels of selenium intake reduce the risk of developing cancers of the prostate, skin and thyroid. Despite the results of their study, Dr Malats gave a disclaimer that the efficacy of selenium against bladder cancer will require further study at a larger scale to support the initial evidence that the group has acquired.

Furthermore, since selenium can be toxic in excessive dosage, future studies will include evaluating the appropriate dosage in getting the expected effect without subjecting the body to adverse effects brought about by selenium poisoning.

Natural Sources of Selenium

Selenium is not very hard to find. It is one of the primary nutrients contained in most food supplement brands. But selenium is also found in natural sources like nuts, poultry, meats and seafood. However, the most recommended and safest way of getting sufficient dosage of selenium for the body’s nutritional needs, in order to take advantage of its known preventive value against degenerative diseases like bladder cancer, is by eating foods known to contain selenium. This prevents selenium overdose which is also known to have toxic properties that may have dangerous effects to the body.

Selenium can also be found in crops that were grown in soil with high selenium content like brown rice and oats. Here is a list of popular foods and their selenium content in micrograms per 100 grams of food:

• Whole grain wheat flour- 71 mcg
• Brazil nuts- 1910 mcg
• Salted mixed nuts, nuts- 420 mcg
• Tuna – 76 mcg
• Chicken- 56 mcg
• Pork- 50 mcg
• Beef- 43 mcg
• Crustaceans- 43

The recommended daily selenium intake is 70 micrograms for men and 55 micrograms for women. Notice that men have higher needs for selenium compared to women since women have stronger abilities to accumulate and excrete selenium. For individuals with greater needs for selenium, a recommend minimum dosage of 600 micrograms is needed to get the required effects.

Excessive intake of selenium or a daily intake above 600 micrograms may lead to nausea, depression, loss of hair and falling of the fingernails, nervousness, and vomiting. It may even cause bad breath. On the other hand, deficiency in selenium happens in rare cases since selenium is usually present in most popular foods. But in case of selenium deficiency, the individual may easily experience fatigue and weakness of the muscles.

Health Benefits of Selenium

Against Cancer

Selenium has been taking the limelight in recent cancer research due to its preventive and possible curative properties against cancer. In a five-year study conducted by the University of Arizona and the Cornell University, results have shown that taking 200 micrograms of selenium a day reduces cancer-related deaths by 39 percent. It also reduced the risk of prostate cancer by 63 percent, colorectal cancer by 58 percent, and lung cancer by 46 percent. The same study also showed the potential preventative value of selenium against cancer of the pancreas, esophagus, ovaries, rectum, cervix, and liver. Selenium is also being studied for its benefits in curing leukemia.

For a Healthy Heart

The body’s level of good cholesterol also benefits from selenium. The micronutrient has been proven to increase the level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol over the low density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. Selenium reduces the blood’s stickiness; thus, reducing the risk of a heart attack and stroke for people with heart problems. It is recommended for people who have had a previous case of stroke or heart attack to take selenium to help prevent reoccurrence.

For Proper Cell Function and Eye Health

One of the most significant roles of selenium in the body is activating body cells and helping them to function properly by transforming body thyroid hormones. Selenium is also needed in the prevention of muscular degeneration and cataracts.

For Stronger Immunity

Studies showed that selenium enhances the capacity of white blood cells to protect the body from foreign toxins, bacteria and viruses. Selenium is also being studied for its possible efficacy against Human Immunodeficiency Virus or HIV.

Tips for Bladder Health

It’s always good to keep yourself well hydrated. Every time you excrete through your bladder, your body eliminates waste products your body no longer needs. To keep the process smoothly going and without any blockages, you need to drink at least 8 glasses of 8-ounce of water a day for adults.

Smoking comprises half of the causes of bladder cancer in men and a quarter in women. Needless to say, smoking has several adverse long term effects to the body including bladder cancer so this is one good reason for smokers to give up the habit.

It’s also important to watch what you eat. Putting more fruits and vegetables on your dinner plate will help keep your bladder in good condition and always check your selenium intake and keep it at a adequate level.

Lastly, avoid being exposed to chemicals with strong odors. Chemicals used in making rubber, paint and other materials have been linked to the development of bladder cancer.

Sources
nutraingredients.com
ehow.com
dietaryfiberfood.com
en.wikipedia.org

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Consumption of lycopene through tomato paste showed evidence of protecting the skin from excessive reddening caused by exposure to UV rays.

A collaborative study conducted by Newcastle University, the University of Manchester and Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust, revealed that consumption of foods containing Lycopene reduces the reddening of the skin after long hours of exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Tomatoes are the richest known sources of lycopene and heat-treated tomato paste has more lycopene content than fresh raw tomatoes. A small serving of tomato paste contains approximately 16 milligrams of lycopene. Skin reddening brought about by extended exposure to UV rays is caused by the damage to mitochondrial DNA. Sufficient servings of tomato paste on a daily basis protect mitochondrial DNA from damage, thereby reducing skin reddening and keeping the skin healthy. This study was published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

The study on the dermatological benefits of lycopene supports previous findings regarding its protective properties against UV rays and tissue damage. However, the research has only produced preliminary evidence and further research is still needed. Lycopene is also a known antioxidant and the substance has also shown medical evidence for lowering the risk of developing prostate, skin and heart diseases. It is also essential in keeping the bones healthy. While lycopene has been known to be derived naturally from tomatoes, it can also be produced synthetically. As an additional treat, lycopene is also being used in cosmetic and beauty products, and in food supplements.

The lycopene study consisted of twenty healthy female participants with an average age of 33. Their skin type was identified as phototype I/II. They were asked randomly to take 55 grams of olive oil or tomato paste in olive oil for a period of 12 weeks. Skin samples from the 17 women who completed the study showed that lycopene had improved the skin’s resistance to UV rays. The researchers said that the benefits of lycopene can also be acquired by eating foods containing processed tomatoes in equivalent dosage.

Understanding Lycopene

Lycopene is a bright red carotenoid and carotene pigment found in red fruits and vegetables especially tomatoes, except for cherries and strawberries. Other known sources are red carrots, papayas, watermelons. Lycopene in plants, and in other organisms that require the process of photosynthesis in making food, serve as an important substance in biosynthesizing carotenoids to give the plant its pigmentation. In humans, lycopene is not an essential nutrient but it is commonly found in the usual diet. The richest source of lycopene is processed and heat-treated tomato products like tomato paste and tomato ketchup. Preliminary evidence from several studies regarding lycopene’s antioxidant properties has made it one of the candidates as a potential agent in the prevention of cancer.

Sources of Lycopene

Lycopene in food supplements and beauty products is usually extracted from tomatoes but the substance can also be synthesized. Amongst the richest natural source of lycopene are pink guava, wolfberry, seabuckthorn, red bell pepper, gac, papaya and of course, tomatoes. Raw tomatoes contain 9 micrograms of lycopene per 42 grams or weight. Some species of tomatoes can have higher lycopene content than others and it rises as the fruit begins to ripen. Gac is known to have the highest content of lycopene with up to 70 times more than tomatoes, but gac is rarely found outside the regions of Southeast Asia.

Antioxidant Properties of Lycopene

Singlet oxygen is produced during a person’s exposure to UV rays and it is the primary cause of skin aging. Carotenoid quenchers are needed to counteract the adverse effects of singlet oxygen to the body. In studies, lycopene has 125 times more the quenching power than glutathione and 100 times more than vitamin. This makes it one of the most potent antioxidants and also one of the most effective substances against skin aging from a natural source.

Health Benefits of Lycopene

Lycopene is continuously being studied for its efficacy in the prevention of several types of cancer. Studies have shown significant evidence of lycopene’s protective properties against lung cancer, prostate cancer and cancer of the stomach. But results and findings remain preliminary and inconclusive, and further research is required to really determine the efficacy of lycopene as an anti-cancer agent.

Asthma

Though no concrete evidence has been established regarding this matter, lycopene had shown indication from scientific studies of being potent in preventing asthma caused by exercise and heightened physical exertion. This is rooted mainly on lycopene’s antioxidant properties.

Cancer Prevention

Studies done in animals to determine the relationship of developing cancer and regular consumption of lycopene from tomatoes showed indications of reduced risk. But like any other studies regarding lycopene, results are still inconclusive and preliminary. Nevertheless, population and epidemiologic studies on the dietary habits and lifestyle of large populations showed lower risk of developing cancer for people with sufficient fruits and vegetable consumption and adequate exercise than the portion of the population with a sedentary lifestyle. It’s not clear whether lycopene is contributory to the effect, but studies are continuously investigating the matter. Despite all the uncertainties, getting sufficient dosage of lycopene from tomatoes and processed tomato products will not harm you either.

Lycopene for Healthy Skin

Lycopene can be used as a sunscreen and antioxidant in one. Once in the body, lycopene deters skin aging by destroying free radicals and protects the skin from the inside against damage caused by the UV rays of the sun. Lycopene supplements and lycopene skin care products like lycopene lotion with relatively efficient SPF levels are crowding the market. The lycopene content of these products may come from natural sources or they may have been synthesized artificially. But if you want it the natural way and not from a tube, there will always be the ketchup in the cupboard.

Side-effects of Lycopene

Anything taken in excessive dosage can have harmful effects to the body. Though lycopene is a non-toxic substance commonly found in the usual diet, excess in carotenoid intake may produce colorful side-effects – in the literal sense. Reports of excessive lycopene intake include the case of a woman who experienced skin discoloration called lycopenodermia after excessive and prolonged consumption of tomato products and tomato juice. Her blood had high levels of lycopene and her liver and skin had a yellow to orange color. The woman was advised to have a lycopene-free diet and after three weeks her skin regained its normal color.

Sources
nutraingredients.com
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Studies regarding probiotics has revealed its significant potential in reducing the risk of acquiring common cold especially during the cold months of winter.

There are over 500 million cases of the common cold in the United States each year. Rhinoviruses are identified as the culprit causing this viral infection. For the common cold alone, the cost amounts to a whopping $40 billion each year. This is according to a study on common cold published in the Archives of Internal Medicine.

A group of researchers,led by Anna Berggren of Sweden, conducted a study regarding the undiscovered health benefits of probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that positively influence the health of its host. Bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria are the two most common microbes used as probiotics, and there are several strains of probiotics depending on the process by which it is cultured. Lactobacillus plantarum and lactobacillus paracasei were shown to have positive influence against common colds.

The results of the study revealed that individuals who were taking the strains of probiotics had a 55 percent reduction in incidents of catching the common cold. The researchers added that the duration of the symptoms was also reduced by probiotics and concluded that it is effective in reducing the risk of acquiring common cold. This study was published in the European Journal of Nutrition. It consisted of 272 healthy participants taking probiotic supplement for 12 weeks.

The consumption of probiotics alongside other effective immune boosters can reduce the risk of an upper respiratory tract infection like otitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and rhinitis. It has also been observed to have preventive benefits against cold to children in day care centers. This additional study on the health benefits of probiotics against common cold in Croatians was published in Clinical Nutrition on June of 2010.

Understanding Probiotics

Probiotics have been proven by medical studies to have numerous health benefits to the body when taken in adequate amount. They can come in the form of bifidobacteria, lactic acid bacteria, bacilli and even in yeast form. Probiotics are usually found in fermented foods such as yogurts and dietary supplements. Japan is one of the leaders in culturing probiotics and it is one of the countries with the most products containing probiotics in the market.

Unlike other bacteria that are known to have harmful effects to the body, probiotics help the body fight bad bacteria while providing support to the immune system at the same time.  This support readies the body from future attacks. Studies on the benefits of probiotics even suggest that it is not only beneficial in preventing some types of diseases but it may also have curative properties. Clinical studies since the middle of the 1990s have established significant evidence that probiotics can help in overcoming several gastrointestinal diseases. These bacteria settle in the gut and keep pathogens and other harmful microorganisms from harming the body and helps in the proper function of the immune system.

Health Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics are being continuously subjected to experiments and scientific studies to discover and obtain proof of its medicinal uses and health benefits. However, there are only preliminary results available and most of the potential benefits of probiotics need further research. Despite that, probiotics have been proven to be safe for human consumption and scientists are spending time and effort in obtaining proof of its value in influencing the immune system, in fighting cancer, and as a bio-therapeutic agent for severe diarrhea and irritable bowel movement.

The health benefits of probiotics are as follows;

Lactose Intolerance

Probiotics may help lactose-intolerant individuals adapt to more lactose. Therefore, the person can drink milk since probiotics helps the body convert lactose into lactic acid more easily and at a faster rate.

Lowering Cholesterol Levels

A popular strain of probiotics, lactobacillus bulgaricus (LAB), had demonstrated significance by helping break down bile produced by the gut. This helps break down cholesterol and has the resultant effect of lowering cholesterol levels. For human subjects who were fed with LAB, some showed reduced levels of cholesterol in their body.

Colon Cancer Prevention

In clinical investigations, Lactobacillus bulgaricus has demonstrated to have significant influence over the mutation of colon cancer cells. LAB has the ability to bind with carcinogenic substances called heterocyclic amines, which are found in cooked meat. This is one of the compounds thought to cause colon cancer. Laboratory experiments made on rodents with regards to the effects of LAB on colon cancer have shown promising results. However, the results in human trials are insufficient and conflicting. Although it has been recorded by a population study that people with high fermented dairy consumption has lower risk of developing colon cancer.

Immune System

Probiotics can protect the body against diseases by competing with pathogens in terms of growth and thus helping improve the immune function. Clinical studies have proven that probiotics help prevent and decrease the severity of respiratory tract infections, diarrhea, and rotavirus infection in children. Probiotics is also beneficial in counteracting the side effects of antibiotics by keeping the immune system alert and ready to take over once the body stops taking antibiotics.

Reduction of Inflammation

Clinical studies have revealed that probiotics can regulate the cytokine function of the body. In effect, it regulates the body’s hypersensitivity and inflammatory responses.

Other Health Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics have also been observed to improve the bioavailability of nutrients such as calcium, iron, copper, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium and B vitamins. It is also being studied to have beneficial effects in maintaining the acidity of the female genital environment thereby preventing the onset of bacterial vaginosis, urinary tract infection and yeast infection.

Healthy Tips to Prevent the Common Cold

The common cold can be prevented by taking sufficient dosage of probiotics and immune boosting foods and adequate exercise. There are over 200 different viruses that cause the common cold.  Remember that cold symptoms vary when it comes to its levels of severity.

Aside from maintaining a healthy lifestyle, it also important to be watchful of where you put your hands. Cold-causing viruses can spread through droplets and can live outside the body for an extended period of time. Touching surfaces may transmit the virus. So here are a few tips to live by:

• Avoid touching your face. You can also use a hand sanitizer or any form of disinfectant to keep your hands clean while you are on the go.
• Always keep it a habit to wash your hands frequently
• If you have colds, be proactive when it comes to keeping the infection from spreading by throwing your used tissues properly, covering your mouth when you sneeze and by staying at home to avoid contact with other people as much as possible.

Sources
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http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=53472
http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0905c.shtml

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A recent addition to the growing number of scientific evidence supporting green tea shows that, aside from its well-known benefits, it also reduces levels of DNA damage.

Widely-believed to have originated from China, green tea has remained as one of the undisputable tea favourites. In the past, a notable pervasive belief regarding the well-loved beverage was that its health benefits are practically felt by those who drink it.  However, these “benefits” were hardly substantiated by scientific evidence.

Over the years, green tea has enjoyed the popular reputation of being a folklore medicine — until it increasingly gained the attention and curiosity of scientists and researchers. Recent findings finally provide a scientific backbone behind its wide range of favourable effects on health maintenance and restoration. With its proven position as a credible and effective natural treatment method, the delicious treat, especially when taken along with other natural health-protective foods and supplementation, redefines “delicious beverage” in a healthy manner.

Recent Human and In Vitro Study: Green Tea Protects from DNA Damage

The new study conducted by a team of experts from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University shows that by drinking green tea daily within a month, human DNA has higher chances of getting damage protection. Results show that the beverage consumption entailed reduction of DNA damage levels by a significant 20%. According to the researchers, the protective capacity and activity points to the green tea’s high antioxidant components and compounds.

Published in the British Journal of Nutrition, the significant results of its genoprotective effects further support the notion that green tea is a “functional food”; rather than being a mere, commonplace, and delicious beverage. Both human supplementation trial and in vitro study confirmed the results.

The study is a significant addition to the body of supporting scientific evidence towards the potential and actual benefits provided by green tea contents, notably by its polyphenol components. The major health benefits proven and discovered through scientific research include Alzheimer’s disease prevention, reduction of cancer risks, and supplementary aid to weight management for more optimal results.

Essential Risk-reducing Contents of Green Tea

In order to have a better grasp of how strongly potent green tea is when it comes to risk-reduction, prevention, and health restoration; it is wise to have a more detailed look at its beneficial contents.

Flavonoids, Polyphenols, and Antioxidants

Possessing antioxidant roles, Flavonoids are highly concentrated in green tea. The high presence level renders the beverage capable of seizing and decapitating one of the leading potential causes of cell damage, and severe disease development:  free radicals or unstable molecules. Antioxidants found in green tea are higher than those in black tea due to the added processes that black tea requires. As such, it is unsurprising to know that instant and highly-processed iced teas already contain insignificant amounts of antioxidants.

Epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, accounts for more than half of the content of catechins – an antioxidant which is 20 times more powerful and potent than vitamin C. The EGCG is widely believed to be one of the tea’s vital contents that aid in anti-cancer and antioxidant activities. It inhibits the growth of cancer cells, while it simultaneously destroys currently existing cancer cells; and healthy cells are left undamaged. Reportedly, this antioxidant can also prevent abnormal blood clot-formation —  an activity linked to one of the potent causes of stroke and heart attacks, called thrombosis.

A More Detailed Look on the Health Benefits of Green Tea

1. In Relation to DNA Damage

The study has shown the capacity of green tea in the reduction of DNA damage. It is important, then, to at least briefly know why this activity benefits human health.

DNA damage is inclined to cause immunosuppression, a high risk factor for certain types of cancer such as skin cancer. Based on a certain study on green tea polyphenols and skin cancer, the polyphenols reportedly are capable of blocking immunosuppression caused by exposure to Ultraviolet Radiation. The said study was applied to mice, and findings further show that polyphenol consumption has a long term protective effect, even after the mice have stopped polyphenol intake.

Furthermore, DNA damage and modifications can cause cellular dysfunction, and thus contribute to the complications of diabetes, such as diabetic nephropathy.

2. In Relation to Cancer

Polyphenols found in green tea are highly capable of stimulating apoptosis, a process that renders cancerous cells to commit suicide. Furthermore, it prohibits the progression of cell cycling, or cell division and replication, in abnormal or cancerous cells while sparing normal, healthy cells from damage. As discussed earlier, the anti-cancer and anti-carcinogen activity is significantly linked to the EGCG. However, it must be clarified that the remarkable antioxidant capabilities of green tea contents should be partnered with other potent sources of antioxidants. Employing antioxidant-source varieties and supplementation will heighten and optimize effects.

A study conducted by I-Hsin Lin of Chung Shan Medical University shows that polyphenols are capable of inhibiting tumorigenesis, a term that refers to tumour production. With lung cancer as Taiwan’s leading cause of all types of cancer-related deaths, and with the difficult struggle of quitting the smoking habit, the study provides benefits to smokers, in the sense that smoking-induced carcinogenesis can be regulated by consuming healthy amounts of green tea.

3. In Relation to Alzheimer’s and Other Neurodegenerative Diseases

Brain cell damage appears to develop through several detrimental factors, such as excessive inflammation and increased iron accumulation levels. These cause and contribute to increasing production of free radicals, which in turn exhaust and deplete antioxidant supplies in the brain.

Fortunately, research shows that catechins found in green tea not only serve as powerful antioxidants since these also cause and trigger various cell mechanisms for neuroprotection including activation of survival genes, modulation of mitochondrial function, and iron chelation.

EGCG has been proven capable of acting as an iron chelator, which stops iron from aiding the production of free radicals. It also boosts and stimulates quality operations of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase — two antioxidant enzymes that further help in damage control caused by detrimental free radical activities effects.

4. In Relation to Weight Management

Green tea catechins also help weight loss success and efficiency. A conducted study published in the Journal of Nutrition reveals that green tea consumption enhances circulation of Free Fatty Acids (FFA), maintain triglyceride levels, and helps promote the loss of abdominal fat due to exercising.

The various and diverse health benefits of green tea show its multi-faceted role as a credible and effective natural treatment method. Indeed, green tea is no longer loved by health-conscious people for its light and luscious taste: It provides more depth to enjoyable beverage-drinking by adding “healthy” to it.

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Resveratrol is a polyphenolic phytoalexin with antioxidant effects, which have shown benefits on animals in past studies; now, human studies have started to emerge.

Whether as urban or rural dwellers, a noticeable fact is prevalent in our daily eating routines. Our food intake, habits, and preferences usually indicate a lack in necessary nutrients that our bodies need for better health. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon such as the proliferation of processed foods and fast-foods, the busy lifestyle that we engage in, and the changing technologies that contribute to the fast-paced world. As such, we often neglect having the necessary nutritional levels. This marks a pressing need to pay attention to what we eat, starting with learning about certain food contents and supplementation that boost our nutrient intake. Furthermore, particular food or supplementation contents do not merely provide general health benefits. These have specific remedy and preventive effects.

One of these is a polyphenolic phytoalexin called resveratrol. In a recent study, it was discovered that resveratrol supplementation has strong capacities of improving cardiovascular health. We may gain essential insights into this powerful antioxidant since the human heart, along with our body, warrants nurturing if we want to reduce our risk of acquiring severe conditions which may sometimes prove to be fatal; and if we want to thrive healthily within this rapidly-changing and busy world.

Study Findings Yield New Insights into Resveratrol Supplements: Cardiovascular and Heart Health

Published in Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular  Diseases, the research led by Dr. Narelle Berry from the University of South Africa is the first of its kind. There have been other resveratrol studies, but the recent one particularly focused on the effects and possible health benefits of resveratrol supplements on the functions of the human circulatory system.

Supplements were said to aid improvement in a special indicator of cardiovascular function, which is called flow-mediated dilatation (FMD). An FMD analysis that shows changes or damage is normally characterized or caused by endothelial dysfunction, and reveals an indication of various risk factors such as obesity. The endothelium is essential to maintaining the body’s vascular tone, through its regulatory efforts towards blood flow. The dysfunction is reportedly due to the lack of nitric oxide production, which may result in the constriction of blood vessels.

As one of the notions that pushed the research to take form, polyphenols are suggested as active, potent agents that improve FMD results. In particular, the polyphenol called resveratrol was suggested to aid in increasing the production, release, and availability of nitric oxide.

Fortunately, the results were positive. Increasing resveratrol was linked to increases in concentrations of plasma in the blood. Furthermore, FMD showed improvement through the employed supplementation. While some details remain unclear, the researchers noted that the evidence suggests that nitric oxide availability and an increase in its levels can be made possible through resveratrol.

A Broader Look at How Humans can Benefit from Resveratrol

Resveratrol was believed and suggested to be the content in red wine, which makes the well-loved drink a very healthy choice of beverage with alcoholic contents. Furthermore, former knowledge on the health benefits of resveratrol supplements did not have strong scientific evidence or support, particularly when applied to humans, because former studies usually employed mice.

However, with the recent study that was earlier discussed, these notions have gained solid footing.

Sources and health benefits

Grape-skin is a major source of the said polyphenol, which explains why red wine contains a good level of resveratrol concentrations, considering the fermentation process of red wine. We may go directly to grape or grape juice consumption if we want. In reportedly comparable or lesser concentrations, resveratrol may also be found in cranberries and blueberries, which also have powerful antioxidant components.

Given the increasing scientific evidences on its potential favourable roles on human health, resveratrol supplementation may possibly be one of the best, if not the best way of acquiring the benefits of resveratrol. According to a resveratrol supplement website, a single resveratrol supplement or pill already equates to the benefits of a huge number of red wine bottles.

Regardless if you’re in the process of recovering from a particular illness, or if your immune system needs an efficient boost, or even if you are currently enjoying a good health status, resveratrol has several benefits for you. It is not only an effective treatment remedy, it also aids in risk-reduction, healing, prevention, and health maintenance. Furthermore, it contributes to optimal weight loss and heightened physical performance among athletes.

Apart from the newly-discovered favourable roles on human health, through its effects on cardiovascular health and functionality, the following list provides a glimpse of some of the more particular ways in which humans can benefit from resveratrol and resveratrol supplementation.

1. Cancer Prevention

Based on research tests on animals, resveratrol was proven as an effective means of reducing tumour incidence. This is primarily done through its interference with certain stages of cancer development. As an antioxidant, resveratrol inhibits cancerous cells’ growth, proliferation, and invasion through their metastasis process.

Some studies show that resveratrol’s anti-cancerous effects are at their peak when the polyphenol comes in direct contact with tumours. Particular tumours to which resveratrol have heightened effects are reportedly gastrointestinal tract and skin tumours. Other types need further research and experimentation.

2. Risk-reduction for Alzheimer’s Disease and Neurodegenerative Diseases

According to researchers at the Cornell University’s Weill Medical College, resveratrol supplementation has shown potent effects on the reduction of plaque formation found in the brains of tested animals. It is important to note that Alzheimer’s disease and several other neurodegenerative diseases are developed through several factors that include plaque formation.

Other studies reportedly show that the said polyphenol decreased the intracellular amyloid-beta (Abeta) peptide levels, which is associated with the reduction and clearance of plaques located in the brain.

3. Inhibition and Risk-reduction for Influenza

The reproduction of viruses that affect the respiratory tract, particularly viruses that cause influenza, are inhibited by resveratrol. Instead of attacking the flu virus, the said polyphenol appears to have a more wide-scale approach: It blocks certain functions in the host cell that allows and aids the replication of influenza virus.

4. Slow Aging

Several companies sell resveratrol supplements, packaged prominently in a way that emphasizes its slow aging effects, and possible capacity for lifespan expansion. As an anti-aging tool, resveratrol is believed to have the capacity of stimulating the SIRT1 gene; which, besides aiding in fat reduction, also helps slow down the process of aging. Further research and studies need to confirm and discover stronger links.

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Simply by eating a wide variety of rich fruits and vegetables, Lung cancer risks can be easily reduced among smokers.

The world is dotted with over a billion cigarette smokers, all of which are at risk of developing certain types of cancer. In the United States, lung cancer is a dreaded fatal condition that accounts as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths, regardless of gender. Smokers are aware of the huge numbers associated with risks and fatalities. However, the addictive component of tobacco and cigarettes prevail in most instances.

Based on a recent study, cessation from smoking is still the most definite and proven way of reducing the risk of lung cancer, but another method may contribute to decreasing lung cancer risks effectively. It implies that if a smoker is yet to quit the habit, he can at least start with reducing lung cancer risks through eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Lung Cancer

All types of cancer are characterized by changes that occur in cells, which result in the cell’s physical and behavioral abnormality. This leads to lung cancer when the uncontrolled cell growth starts to take place in one or both longs.

The deviant cells continuously reproduce and divide, which thus lead to tumor formation, or lumps of tissue. Tumors intervene with the major lung activity of providing oxygen to the bloodstream, and may either be malignant or benign. If it is benign, the tumor remains in a single place and its growth is limited; while malignant tumors develop due to migrating cancer cells that spread to other body parts. Metastasis occurs when the malignant tumor grows and destroys other tissues.

Lung cancer is usually categorized into two main types: small-lung cancer and non-small lung cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is classified under non-small cell lung cancers. Tumours that develop from squamous cells — cells that take the place of damaged cells in the bronchi’s lining — are often located in the lung’s central area and may possibly form cavities.

Squamous cell carcinoma is most often caused by smoking, and it accounts for approximately 30% of all cases of lung cancer.

The Research Breakthrough: Variety over Quantity

A wealthy line of research and evidence has already proven the significance of eating fruits and vegetables to maintain and improve health. However, the recent research added a new twist to the common “fruits and vegetables are beneficial for your health” notion. Published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, the study yielded findings that indicate the potential role of eating fruits and vegetables in reducing lung cancer risks among smokers.

It involved 450,000 Europeans and with 1,600 participants that were already diagnosed with lung cancer disease; along with 14 fruits and 26 vegetables that came as canned, fresh, and dried. Two particularly notable details were discovered: squamous cell carcinoma risk decreased through eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, regardless of quantity.

From the old “eat lots of fruits and vegetables”, a new perspective arose: Eat diverse kinds of fruits and vegetables.

The Wallin Land Grant Professor of Cancer Prevention at the University of Minnesota’s Masonic Cancer Center and a current member of Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention’s editorial board, Stephen Hecht, said that the study was one of the first to assess the importance of diversity over quantity for the prevention of cancer development.

Hecht further stated that the need for fruit variety stems from the fact that tobacco smoke has various cancer-inducing agents or carcinogens, all of which are intricately and complexly mixed. As such, reducing the risk of lung cancer warrants also a rich mixture of protective factors and agents, such as the diverse and healthy fruits and vegetables used in the study.

Smokers, the number of which consistently reaches an alarming scale worldwide, find it difficult to quit the smoking habit, despite exerting a large amount of effort into successfully leaving the cigarette behind. Hecht acknowledged the smoking statistics and smokers’ struggle, and commented that the new discovery showed how struggling smokers can, at least, potentially employ the protective factor found in a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Exploring Other Natural Protective Factors

The study that was earlier discussed further added to the attention and credibility that natural treatment remedies deserve. Fortunately, there are other natural protective factors and risk-reducing methods that are mostly beneficial and efficient. Furthermore, these are worthy of people’s choice, especially those who do not wish to incur more complications and side effects due to taking prescribed and chemical-filled drugs.

The following are some other natural preventive measures:

1. Avoid all forms of tobacco.

Of course, readers must be cautious of thinking that the recent study encourages smoking. The researchers added a disclaimer: Despite interesting study results, the only proven way of lung cancer risk reduction is through avoiding all forms of tobacco. As such, non-smokers must not smoke in the first place; occasional smokers should quit while they are yet to become addicted; and chronic smokers should at least strive to stop the habit now.

Tobacco smoke reportedly contains more than 60 known carcinogens. Because carcinogens interrupt the normal development and growth of cells, it enables cancer to initially take form. Quitting, then, is the best tactic in reducing lung cancer risks. Second-hand smoke — which is generally the exhaled smoke pipes, cigarettes, and cigars that people inhale — should also be avoided.

2. Stop Inhaling High Levels of Radon

If smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, a second leading cause follows it: Radon. Approximately 22,000 fatalities due to lung cancer are significantly related to radon.

Radon is a radioactive gas that arises from normal uranium decay in the soil, which eventually spreads in the air. It is difficult to sense the presence of this gas through the 5 basic senses. Along with uranium’s quick decay, tiny radioactive particles are produced and diffused in the air. Inhalation of the said radioactive particles potentially damage lung cells. As such, frequent exposure to and inhalation of radon at high levels enable lung cancer to develop.

While the links are yet to be firmly established, statistics show that a combination of smoking and radon gas exposure heightens lung cancer risks, than when these risk factors operate separately.

With the given information, it is wise for people to test their homes for radon levels. Soil composition and proximity heightens radon levels indoors. There are several short-term and long-term testing devices available, all of which are relatively affordable. For further aid, people should consult their state or local radon official.

3. Physical activity for lung cancer prevention and improved survival rate

Given the wide array of benefits that physical activity and exercise provide, and the conditions that can be prevented, it is not surprising to note that lung cancer belongs to these fatal diseases. Furthermore, according to a 2007 study that was included in the Sixth Annual International Conference on Cancer Prevention of the American Association for Cancer Research, besides lung cancer prevention, exercise can improve the survival chances of those who are already diagnosed.

Sources
newsmaxhealth.com
aacr.org
intro: umm.edu
cancer.gov
cancer.about.com
medicinenet.com
theajcf.org

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