Uses of functional foods , nutraceuticals and supplements

Functional Foods:   

Psyllium

-Bioactive component: Soluble fiber

-  Uses:

§  Helps in reducing total and LDL cholesterol

§  improves the functionality and efficiency of the digestive system, like by binding with water in the gut.

§  May help in reducing blood sugar levels

§  Regulates blood pressure

§  Detoxifies the body

Fatty fish:

-Bioactive component: (n-3) Fatty acids

-  Uses:

§  Reduce TG, reduce heart disease cardiac deaths and fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction .

§  High in nutrients: Fatty fish is high in important nutrients such as Vitamin D and protein

§  Reduces risk of autoimmune diseases: Autoimmune diseases are those where the body starts mistakenly attacking healthy cells

and tissues. Omega-3 oils derived from fatty fish are known to reduce the risk of such diseases as diabetes, arthritis and

multiple sclerosis .

§  Consumption of fatty fish may protect your brain from age- related diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It is known to slower rates of cognitive decline. Certain studies have shown that people who eat fish regularly have more grey matter in their brain centers that control emotions and memory.

§  boost your mood and keep the risk of depression at bay.

·      Garlic:
 

-Bioactive component: Organosulfur compounds

-  Reduce total and LDL cholesterol

- Garlic contains innumerable anti carcinogenic properties and antioxidants that prevent formation of cancerous substances, inhibiting the growth of tumours.

-stabilize blood pressure levels. Allicin, a substance in garlic impedes the movement of angiotensin II , a peptide (a tiny piece of protein) that is responsible for the contraction of the blood vessels. This contraction causes the blood flow forcefully through a constricted space, resulting in increased pressure.

-  Garlic helps reduce oxidative stress (free radicals) in the blood.

-Garlic acts as a blood thinner as they contain salicylate content, which has the ability to make blood thinner. This enables proper blood flow and enhances circulatory health.

-  Allicin, a substance present in garlic increases insulin secretion and slows down the glycation process, which occurs when blood sugar increase. Besides this, garlic prevents diabetic complications of the eye, kidneys, skin, heart and the blood vessels.

-Rich in antioxidants garlic has a very healthy effect on the immune system. Therefore, they act as a protective shield against all kinds of bacteria and viruses attacking the body.

Nutraceuticals:

·      Buckwheat:

-Buckwheat, or common buckwheat, is a plant cultivated for its grain-like seeds and as a cover crop.

 

-Uses:

§  -Buckwheat contains vitamin, which contains the flavonoid rutin. Rutin is known for its effectiveness in reducing the cholesterol count in the

blood. In addition, buckwheat is an effective preventative measure against high blood pressure. Rutin is known to keep capillaries and

arteries strong and flexible. The effectiveness of rutin in buckwheat is strengthened with the addition of vitamin C.

§  Japanese publications suggest that buckwheat "is a very nourishing food which works to relax the body, helps relieve and prevent inflammation, excessive perspiration, nosebleed, or high blood pressure; and help maintain a good functioning of the intestines

§  Buckwheat flour requires little cooking and has good shelf life.

§  The human body can utilize 74% of the available protein in buckwheat. Although other food products are also high in available protein, many contain high levels of fat. Buckwheat is virtually fat free. It is also gluten free.

§  Buckwheat has an excellent amino acid composition that is very complementary to cereal grains. It is very high in lysine, nearly twice the amount found in wheat and white rice.

§  Buckwheat contains considerable amounts of vitamins B1 and B2. Vitamin B1 is important in rekindling energy by facilitating the working of the nerves. Vitamin B2 assists the lipids in their work. Combining

these vitamins with vitamin E results in an effective precaution against hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis). Consuming 100 g of

buckwheat can supply 40% of the daily adult requirement of vitamin B1.

§  Buckwheat is very effective in helping the human body rid itself of

unwanted cholesterol. Sterols in buckwheat prevent cholesterol from increasing in the blood serum.

§  Potassium, magnesium, phosphate, and iron are abundant in

buckwheat flour. Buckwheat is higher in iron than cereal grains. These minerals play an essential role in the prevention of hypertension and anemia.

§  Buckwheat contains choline, which facilitates the working of the liver.

§  Combining small amounts of egg, chicken, or vegetable with buckwheat noodles provides a nutritional meal that approaches the ideal balance of nutrients.

Regular consumption of 30 g of buckwheat has been shown to lower

blood pressure regardless of other factors such as age and weight. In a study conducted in cooperation with the Johns Hopkins Medical

Institute, Jiang et al. (1995) reported that subjects who consumed the greatest amount of buckwheat had the lowest blood pressures.

The addition of buckwheat to human diets could also help cut calories and keep blood sugars at optimal levels. Buckwheat grain is digested more slowly than other carbohydrates (Buckwheat diet 1989).

Consequently, the inclusion of buckwheat in a meal leaves people feeling full longer, thus reducing the urge to snack. The slow uptake of

buckwheat also has potential to prevent adult-onset diabetes, as well as improve glucose tolerance in those who have developed the disease(Buckwheat diet 1989).

·      Mustard greens:

             -Mustard green is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat because it is low in calories but still high in fiber and micronutrients

-Uses:

§  Antioxidants

Free radicals cells cause severe damage to the DNA of the cells in the body. The oxidative stress that is caused by these free radicals harms the vital functions and tissues in the body. This damage is irreversible and can lead to illnesses such as cancer and diabetes. The Vitamin C and Vitamin A in mustard greens allows it to provide antioxidants to the body. Glutathione is an antioxidant that is induced by the glycosylates  in the green vegetables that acts as a strong antioxidant and prevents oxidative stress to the body.

§  Detox

    Our body accumulates toxins over time; this can be from the food we eat or the environmental effects on our body. Cleansing the body from within is necessary to keep a healthy liver and digestion. Mustard greens are naturally detoxifying agents as they contain antioxidants that target the toxins in our body, eliminating them and getting rid of them through defecation. The chlorophyll derivatives in mustard greens help neutralize heavy metals and chemicals in the body.

§  Cholesterol Management

     High levels of cholesterol are responsible for many heart diseases and may be the cause of diabetes and damage to vital organs of the body. Bad cholesterol accumulates in the veins and arteries that narrow the space for blood to and from the heart. Good cholesterol is necessary for the body to function, but LDL or bad cholesterol harms the body severely. Eating a diet rich in green leafy vegetables allows the body to stay clear of bad or LDL cholesterol. Mustard leaves help the body convert the good cholesterol into bile acid, which helps break down fats in the food. Mustard greens help the body complete the bile binding process efficiently, which helps lower the quantity of bad cholesterol in the body.

§  Fiber-Rich

Fiber keeps the body going and provides the momentum of converting food into energy. The dietary fiber found in mustard greens interferes with the absorption of bad cholesterol in the gut. Studies show that people who consume mustard greens and other types of leafy greens tend to be less susceptible to diseases such as colon cancer, hemorrhoids, and constipation. High fiber is said to lower the serum cholesterol levels in the body and ensures adequate bowel movements. It also lowers the risk of hypertension and heart disease as dietary fiber clears the arteries to enable proper blood pressure levels.

§  Phytochemicals

    Green leafy vegetables are a powerful source of phytonutrients that are beneficial for the human body. They perform the mechanism of protecting the plant and the human body from diseases and environmental distress. The glucosinolates and phenols are in abundance in mustard greens, which is what strengthens the body from within.

§  Immunity

    Vitamin C is the most powerful vitamin on the planet with immunity- boosting abilities like no other. Vitamin C acts as a vasodilator and an antioxidant to prevent the body from cell damage; it strengthens the body from within and prevents the onset of diseases such as cancer. It also protects the body from seasonal and viral infections. Mustard greens are an excellent source of vitamin C.

§  Treating Psoriasis 

     Psoriasis is a chronic –inflammatory-auto immune disease, the inflammation, and lesions that are caused by psoriasis are treatable through mustard. Mustard greens facilitate the stimulation of enzymes such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, which calms inflammation and provides pain relief to people suffering with psoriasis. Ongoing studies are trying to isolate the compounds that are responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties of the mustard seeds and greens.

§  Treating Menopause

     Menopause is often followed by bone density loss, which affects more than 45% of women. The combination of calcium, magnesium and vitamin K found in mustard greens keeps the bone density and skeletal structure in check. This also protects the body from diseases such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, which are diseases that are often associated with menopause.

§  Respiratory Disorders

    Mustard greens are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that target viral infections such as flu and colds. Vitamin C is extremely helpful in calming sinus inflammations and reducing the risk of asthma. Mustard greens are excellent expectorant and help decongest the nasal pathway by dislodging the mucus. Mustard greens were used in Ayurvedic medicines due to a warm sensation it offers. Chronic bronchitis can also be treated with the regular consumption of mustard greens.

§  Nutrition

     Mustard greens provide a hearty meal, they can be added to stir-fry’s or can be prepared on their own as curry with spices. They have a distinct peppery flavor and this is due to the presence of phenols and flavonoids that make mustard greens one of the most lightweight superfoods. Dietary facts – 100 grams of mustard greens (cooked) contains 

                               3 grams     of dietary fiber, 

                               3grams of protein, 

                               524% of vitamin K of the daily value,  

                               19% manganese, 

                               10% calcium,    

                               7% vitamin B6 

                               59% vitamin C.

§  Vitamin K

Vitamin K is far superior to calcium when it comes to preserving bone density. Mustard greens contain up to 524% of the daily value required

by an adult.. It helps reduce the inflammation in joints that is caused due to arthritis. This keeps the bone structure in good condition and helps

maintain high energy levels.   

Tomatoes:

-Uses:

            -  Tomatoes are good for your skin.

Tomatoes contain a high level of lycopene, which is a substance that is used in some of the pricier facial cleansers .It is good for skin.

-  Tomatoes help prevent several types of cancer.

A number of studies have been conducted that indicate that the high levels of lycopene in tomatoes works to reduce your chances of developing prostate, colorectal and stomach cancer.Lycopene is a natural antioxidant that works effectively to slow the growth of cancerous cells. Cooked tomatoes produce even more lycopene

             -Tomatoes help maintain strong bones.

Tomatoes contain a considerable amount of calcium and Vitamin K. Both of these nutrients are essential in strengthening and performing minor repairs on the bones as well as the bone tissue.

-Tomatoes help repair damage caused by smoking.

Tomatoes can reduce the amount of damaged done to your body by smoking cigarettes.

Tomatoes contain coumaric acid and chlorogenic acid that work to protect the body from carcinogens that are produced from cigarette smoke.

-Tomatoes provide essential antioxidants.

Tomatoes contain a great deal of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. This is primarily because these vitamins and beta-carotene work as

antioxidants to neutralize harmful free radicals in the blood.

Free radicals in the blood stream are dangerous because it may lead to cell damage

-Tomatoes are good for your heart.

Because of the Vitamin B and potassium in tomatoes, they are effective

in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. Therefore, by including tomatoes in your regular balanced diet you can effectively

prevent heart attacks, strokes as well as many other heart related problems that may threaten your life.

-Tomatoes are good for your hair.

The Vitamin A in tomatoes works perfectly to keep your hair shiny and strong. In addition, it also does wonders for your eyes, skin, bones and teeth.

-  Tomatoes are good for your kidneys.

Adding tomatoes without seeds to your diet has been proven in some studies to reduce the risk of kidney stones.

-Tomatoes are good for eyes.

The Vitamin A found in tomatoes is good for improving vision. In addition, eating tomatoes is one of the best foods to eat to prevent the development of night blindness.

-Tomatoes are packed full of the valuable mineral known as chromium. It works effectively to help diabetics keep their blood sugar levels under better control.

Supplements:

·      Fish oil:

-Fish oil is one of the most commonly consumed dietary supplements. It’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are very important for health.

Uses:

§  Cholesterol levels: It can increase levels of “good” HDL cholesterol.

However, it does not appear to reduce levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol

§  Triglycerides: It can lower triglycerides by about 15–30%

§  Blood pressure: Even in small doses, it helps reduce blood pressure in people with elevated levels

§  Plaque: It may prevent the plaques that cause your arteries to harden, as well as make arterial plaques more stable and safer in those who already have them

§  Fatal arrhythmias: In people who are at risk, it may reduce fatal

arrhythmia events. Arrhythmias are abnormal heart rhythms that can cause heart attacks in certain cases . Although fish oil supplements can improve many of the risk factors for heart disease, there is no clear evidence that it can prevent heart attacks or strokes

·      Shark cartilage:

-Shark cartilage comes from the tough elastic tissue derived from sharks caught in the Pacific Ocean. The cartilage is dried and ground into powder before extraction is carried out.The main compounds in shark cartilage include proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and carbohydrates.

-Uses:

§  Cancer prevention and treatment: It is believed that the natural, nontoxic substance is effective in fighting and preventing cancer. Currently, the Food and Drug Administration is undertaking clinical studies on shark cartilage.

§  Treats osteoarthritis: When combined with camphor, chondroitin sulfate, and glucosamine sulfate, shark cartilage eases arthritis symptoms. However, it is unclear if shark cartilage gets absorbed through the skin.

§  Treat age-related vision loss: Previous studies indicate that the use of shark cartilage for 24 weeks improves vision in patients with age-related vision loss.

§  Treats skin problems: Undergoing researches suggest that topical application or oral consumption of shark cartilage can ease skin symptoms including itching and psoriasis.

§  Other health benefits include wound healing, eye problems, kidney cancers and other conditions.

·      Wheatgrass

-Wheatgrass is a food made from the Triticum aestivum plant. It’s regarded as a super potent health food with amazing benefits. It is usually consumed as a fresh juice, but it also comes in powdered form. Wheatgrass supplement is a multivitamin used to detoxify our body. It is an Herbal formula for Blood Purification system.

-Uses:

§  It’s a superfood

Wheatgrass is packed with a powerful combination of nutrients that make it extremely useful to your health. It has many therapeutic

benefits and is known as complete nourishment. The extensive combination of vitamins and nutrients may make wheatgrass an exceptional choice to enhance your well-being. Wheatgrass has antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

It contains Iron ,calcium,Enzymes,magnesium,phytonutrients,17 amino acids,vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex,chlorophyll,proteins

§  It can eliminate toxins

The nutrients in wheatgrass aid the in getting rid of impurities and stored toxins. For example, the chlorophyll aids in detoxing the body and helps support healthy liver function. Once your body is cleansed, you

may see an increase in energy levels and better health overall.

§  It can help with digestion

Wheatgrass has high levels of enzymes that aid in digestion by helping your body to break down food and absorb nutrients. This can help with

digestion.The detox effects of wheatgrass clean intestines so one can experience less gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Wheatgrass may also help constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and other

digestive issues.

§  It can boost your metabolism

Drinking wheatgrass can boost your metabolism and aid inTrusted Source weight loss. It’s an excellent choice if you’re watching your weight, because it’s low in calories and has no fat.Wheatgrass is a

nutrient-dense food, leading many to feel fuller faster and longer. This can help to reduce cravings.

§  It can boost immune system

Wheatgrass enhances the function of your immune system. This can help ward off infection and disease. It feels much better when your immunity is performing at optimal levels.

§  It can give energy

Energy levels may be higher than from the nourishment received. Once body has cleared out harmful substances, energy can be directed to

performing daily tasks and exercising. It feels rejuvenated and refreshed.

§  It can lower blood pressure

One can lower your blood pressure by consuming wheatgrass. The chlorophyll molecule is similar to haemoglobin and increases blood cell count. This helps to normalize blood pressure. It’s also thought to purify blood and improve blood circulation.

§  It can improve cognitive function

Wheatgrass may improve overall mental function and relieve. Its

neuroprotective effects allow for better cognitive function and can ward off and treat Alzheimer’s disease. It helps to prevent memory loss and can be used to improve hand-eye coordination.

§  It can help with diabetes

Wheatgrass has been shown improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. This is, in part, because wheatgrass has compounds that have an effect similar to insulin. It lowers the glycemic index of foods, which has a positive effect on blood sugar levels.