vitamin

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Chronic alcoholism and vitamin A levels

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Research assesses alcohol’s effect on vitamin A levels in the liver and vitamin A role in the alcoholic liver disease

 
New study report from Columbia University Medical Center in New York researchers explains that alcohol consumption and vitamin A levels in the body are linked. Long term alcohol consumption lowers vitamin A levels in the liver, while raising its levels in other tissues.

The team used 2 groups of mice for multiple experiments, one group receiving alcohol-containing food and the other one alcohol-free food. When researchers measured vitamin A levels, the alcohol-fed mice were found to have lower liver levels and higher other tissue levels of vitamin A.

The findings suggest that excessive alcohol consumption lowers vitamin A levels in the liver. The study found important information about the development of alcoholic liver disease that could lead researchers to new hints about how our body manages its vitamin deposits.

“We hope this study will lead to a broader understanding and appreciation of the fact that excessive consumption of alcohol has a negative effect on vitamin A function in the bod. Ultimately, we hope that vitamin A will be seen as a broad target for alcohol in multiple tissues of the body and that our understanding of alcohol-induced disease will be linked together by its effects on vitamin A”, said Dr. Robin D. Clugston, one of the researchers involved in the study.
By assessing alcohol’s effect on vitamin A levels in the liver and vitamin A role in the alcoholic liver disease, scientists could further investigate vitamin A role in the human body. Also, they would be able to discover how exactly alcohol related diseases are linked to vitamin levels in different organs and tissues, for a better understanding and management of various illnesses.

 
Source: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/09/150901140159.htm

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The avocado – definitely on the “world’s healthiest foods” list

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The versatile avocado fruit is highly appreciated in South American cuisines, and is the main ingredient of the famous “guacamole” dish

Originated from Mexico and Central America, this creamy, buttery fruit comes from the Lauraceae family and is related with bay laurel, camphor and cinnamon. The avocado (Persea americana, also known as the “butter fruit” or “alligator pear”) is rather unique for its good flavor and rich texture.

Vitamins A, K, C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, E, folate, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, zinc and phosphorus make this odd looking fruit very appreciated among people who want to adopt a healthy diet.

Often referred to as a “super-food”, the avocado is a low-carb, very high in mono-unsaturated healthy fats, loaded with fiber, naturally nutrient-dense food, including 20 different vitamins and minerals and providing numerous beneficial effects on health:

  • Avocados contain more potassium than bananas, a nutrient that helps maintain electrical gradients of cells, proven to reduce blood pressure, preventing stroke.

  • Avocado is loaded with high healthy fat. The oleic acid is a mono-unsaturated fatty acid that has beneficial effects in reducing inflammation.

  • Rich in fiber, avocados can be a consistent part of a weigh-losing diet. Fiber foods stave away hunger, prevent constipation, detox the body and regulate metabolism and blood sugar levels. Also, dietary fiber may also play an important role regarding the immune system and inflammation normal physiology.

  • Its powerful antioxidants also protect the eyes. Lutein and Zeaxanthin carotenoids are linked to a reduced risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Tasteful and delicious, avocados are very easy to incorporate in a diet, as they are weight loss friendly due to the low-carb, high fiber and fat content. If you want a boost of nutrient value of other foods that you eat, avocado can do that too.

What are the profits that the human body gets from the “alligator fruit”?

  • Considering unhealthy fats, avocado lowers cholesterol and triglyceride levels, therefore it decreases heart disease risk, by providing cardiovascular support.

  • High amounts of avocado’s vitamin K can prevent osteoporosis, as it can improve bone calcium absorption and reduce urinary calcium excretion.

  • High levels of folate that the fruit contains have been shown to protect the body against colon, stomach, pancreatic and cervical cancer. Another benefit of high levels of folate is a lowered risk of depression, while regulating mood, sleep and appetite.

Either you use it chopped, as a garnish of the main meal of the day, mixed with other vegetables in salads, in traditional “guacamole” or you prefer it spread on a big piece of bread, now you can enjoy one of the world’s healthiest foods knowing its indisputable benefits and long term positive effects on your daily diet.

Eye

Healthy eyes and nutrition – related

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 Daily eating of powerful antioxidants, vitamins and micro-nutrients can improve your vision and long term eye health

Your eyes can too benefit from a healthy diet plan. Vision can also be helped by adding a set of necessary nutrients to your daily eating habits. Antioxidants are proved to decrease the risk of cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, dry eye syndrome.

A diverse nutrition enhances the chances of longer keeping a healthy eye sight. Daily include in your diet colorful fruits and vegetables. From the large variety of nutrients that improve your vision, the following are essential for protecting your eyes from diseases:

Beta-carotene

  • Reduces the progression of macular degeneration. Beta-carotene is found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, kale.

Flavonoids

  • Protect against cataracts and macular degeneration. Rich sources: tea, red wine, citrus fruits, blueberries, cherries, soy.

Lutein and Zeaxanthin

  • Very important nutrients that also prevent chronic cataracts and macular degeneration. Lutein and zeaxanthin can be found in green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, turnip greens, collard greens, squash) as well as eggs.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

  • 1000 g daily helps preventing macular degeneration and dry eyes. In addition, they maintain the nervous system’s health and boost the immune system Fish is an extraordinary omega-3 source: salmon, mackerel, herring, cod. Krill is a superior source ot fatty acids. Flaxseeds and walnuts also provide important quantities.

Selenium

  • Eye benefits of selenium: When combined with carotenoids and C and E vitamins. Shrimp, crab, salmon, halibut), brazil nuts, noodles, brown rice contain selenium in proper amounts.

Vitamin A

  • Protect against night blindness and dry eyes. Can be found in beef, chicken liver, eggs, butter, milk.

Vitamin C

  • Also called ascorbic acid, it reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration and visual acuity loss. Rich sources of this powerful antioxidant are fruits and vegetables: sweet peppers, kale, strawberries, broccoli, oranges, cantaloupe.

Vitamin D

  • Reduces the risk of macular degeneration. Salmon, sardines, mackerel, milk and fortified orange juice provide this vitamin. orange juice fortified with vitamin D. Nevertheless, sunlight exposure provides the best vitamin D absorption.

Vitamin E

  • Powerful antioxidant that reduces AMD (macular degeneration) and protects from free radicals. Food sources: almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, fortified cereals, sweet potatoes.

Zinc

  • Main compound of the retina and choroid layer, zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a vital role in melanin production of the eye. Reduces risk of night blindness and advanced AMD. Primarly found in oysters, beef, crab, turkey.

Most nutrients that improve vision can be obtained through a healthy diet, including fish, fruits and vegetables. Of course, vision supplement also help, but before starting an eye regimen make sure to consult with your ophthalmologist to ensure you follow adequate approach, especially if you take prescription medications for other health problems.