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Acai Berry and Weight Loss – Truth or Myth ?

Sunday, March 14th, 2010

Anyone who has been on the lookout for health products would have heard about the various properties of acai berry juice. The juice is extracted from the acai berry, a berry that is found in the palm trees of the Amazon in Brazil. This wonder fruit has been consumed by the Brazilians for many years and it is only recently that it has been brought to the forefront so that everyone can benefit from the super food’s characteristics. The super food is known by many to help weight loss and has various other properties as well. It is available over the Internet and all that you need to do is to type in acai in a search engine to obtain various websites where you can buy acai berry juice.

The Importance of Buying Good Quality Acai Berry Juice
The acai berry needs to be extracted well so as to retain all the beneficial properties that it has. The berry itself is known to rot within a day and therefore it is important that the plant be grown near the manufacturing unit or the manufacturing unit be placed close to the place where the acai berry grows naturally. It is therefore pertinent that you choose the acai juice that you consume after adequate levels of research and reference.

Weight Loss Properties
This is one property of acai berry that needs no mention. Anyone who knows about the blue coloured berry seems to know about the fact that it is essentially very good for weight loss. The weight loss properties of the berry or the acai berry have been popularized in Oprah Winfrey’s show as well and it is said that she along with other Hollywood stars have benefitted from the acai berry juice diet and have achieved their weight loss targets. Acai works in a completely natural manner and increases the metabolism of the body. This means that the weight loss that results from consuming acai berry is completely natural.

Other Health Benefits of Acai Berry
Apart from the weight loss characteristics that acai berry has, there are also many other benefits of consuming this super food. The berry and the juice extracted from the same contain high levels of nutrients that are required by the body. It is high in antioxidants and therefore helps in preventing cancerous growths.

It also contains fibre, amino acids, magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin A, E and C. These contribute to increasing the immunity levels of the body and keep diseases at bay.  Unique nutrients like oleic acid or omega 9 helps in lowering cholesterol and since it is low on sugar, it is a great fruit for diabetics as well. The Cyanidin 3 Glucoside is known to reverse the process of aging and can help you look better with each passing day.

Acai berry, when consumed regularly can help in improving your complexion and skin tone, aiding digestion, managing insomnia and depression and removing toxins from your system as well. This ensures that your body remains healthy and fit at all times.

Can Mangosteen Help Arthritis Pain Relief?

Thursday, December 17th, 2009

As with other super fruits or superfoods, proponents of mangosteen juice and mangosteen capsules believe that it may cure everything from cancer to bacterial infections.  Users also say that it can decrease the pain and inflammation caused from arthritis.  There are over 100 different types of arthritic conditions but the majority of individuals refer to rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as the two major groups.

Mangosteen is rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin B-1, B-2, B6, calcium, potassium and iron.  It is also packed with antioxidants that assist in fighting free radicals in the body linked to heart disease and cancer, as well as being a good source of xanthones.  Researchers have found that xanthones have a potent anti-inflammatory effect in the body which may be linked to the positive effects found arthritis pain relief.

While there have been no major studies on humans to prove that drinking the mangosteen juice on a daily basis would offer significant improvement, researchers have found that it’s daily dosages of antioxidants and vitamins will improve the ability of the body’s immune system to fight the disease. Such properties also improve the body’s ability to absorb other vitamins and minerals essential to to overall health.

Mangosteen offers the user an incredibly powerful antioxidant fruit cocktail which helps the body to remain healthy.  And, while there have been no major studies on humans to prove the effects of mangosteen juice in the treatment of arthritis, there have been significant case studies that point researchers to the possibility of improved overall health and decreased pain and inflammation.

Six Tips to Help Detoxify Your Body in the NEw Year

Friday, December 11th, 2009

Poor eating habits, low-fiber diets, environmental pollution, and stress causes the production and absorption of several toxins into the body. These toxins affect adversely the functioning of all the major organs of our body and especially the fine balance of our immune system. Detoxing one’s body is now more of a necessity than a choice.

Fortunately there are many techniques and health supplements which can help you detox so that your body becomes significantly healthier and revitalized.

  1. Consumption of adequate amounts of water, herbal teas, fruits, vegetables and other fibre rich foods.
  2. Rreducing consumption of fats, red meats, and milk products are natural ways of detoxifying. Fibres in the diet ease absorption and promote utilization of the dietary nutrients.
  3. Sweating is a very effective way to detox. Sauna and simple aerobics increase our metabolisms, increase sweating and thereby help purify the body through enhanced skin elimination. Regular bathing is essential to cleanse the skin of the toxins it has released and to open the pores to eliminate more.
  4. Though tea contains potentially harmful elements such as tannin and caffeine, it is also a diuretic (a compound that increases urine production). This helps the body to washout several toxins. Tea is also a powerful antioxidant, which means that it protects the body from the harmful action of free radicals.
  5. Herbal medicines like a home brew made of cumin, coriander and fennel, strained and taken with or without honey, can be an excellent detoxification beverage.
  6. Commercially available detox teas include lemongrass, red clover, calendula, rosehips, juniper and chamomile. Taken in various combinations and blends, these can be helpful in preventing oxygen free radical build-ups in our body.

There are ways to evaluate the efficacy of your detox regimen. A successfully incorporated detox will pump in fresh energy levels; renew appetite, and provide relief from chronic lethargy, aches and pains. Enjoy the holiday season but think about how to cleanse your body afterwards,

6 Tips For Boosting Your Immune System

Thursday, December 10th, 2009
  1. Detox‘ is the short form of detoxification and involves the removing of toxic substances from your body. Learning how to detox your body can bring substantial benefits to your health and well being by boosting your immune system. There are natural ways we can strengthen our immune system. Some of these ways are listed here:
  2. Make sure you catch your daily dose of sleep, to rejuvenate and boost your immune system. Many convince themselves that sleeping 5 to 6 hrs a day is enough. But the truth is, we require at least 8 hours of un-fragmented sleep per night.
  3. Stress raises the levels of steroid hormones in your body. Steroids have a very strong suppressive action on the normal functioning of your immune cells. There are studies that prove that stress and depression affect the body physically and can even weaken the immune system. De-stressing sessions like meditation, aerobics and yoga help a lot. Listening to relaxing music and just doing what you love to do are also help some to unwind.
  4. Water helps to flush the body of toxins and keep you well hydrated. Drinking 6 to 8 glasses of water a day improves with healing & toxin removal processes.
  5. Nothing is as important as a well balanced diet to sustain a powerful immune system. Vitamins and trace nutrients play very intricate roles in the metabolism of rapidly diving cells like the cells of immunity. A diet full of fresh fruits and vegetables, are excellent sources of antioxidants. Vitamins like A, C, E, and beta carotene are the major antioxidants performing the important role of scavenging free radicals and limiting their damage. Antioxidants also improve immune system functioning.
  6. Finally, regular exercise makes our body stronger, improves circulation of blood and nutrients, and helps flush the body of toxins; thus indirectly contributing to a healthy immune system.

Health Supplements to Support Your Immune System

Tuesday, December 8th, 2009

Our immune system is a complicated, versatile but amazing defence mechanism which protects our body from different environmental invaders. However most of us do not understand its importance till we fall ill. So today we’re going to talk about health foods and supplements to support your immune system and stay from falling ill altogether.

Vitamin C supplements prevent and reduce the symptoms of common cold and flu. Excellent sources of vitamin C include all citrus fruits, sweet peppers, strawberries, kiwi fruit and broccoli. They contain hundreds of phytochemicals that provide many preventative health benefits, by boosting the activity of white blood cells called lymphocytes. Vitamin C is also a very powerful antioxidant and helps the immune system by scavenging free radicals in our body.

Vitamin A: Skin is the first line of defence for our immune systems and vitamin A plays a vital role to support it. All yellow colour fruits like carrots, squash, pumpkin are great sources of beta-carotene which the body quickly turns into vitamin A. Research has also shown that older adults with high intakes of Vitamin A had a slower rate of mental decline.

Zinc is a trace metal which is essential for the functioning of the free radical scavenger Glutathione, which can increase the efficiency of immune system to fight against common cold, sore throat.

Few herbs can also work wonders to provide a powerful defence against harmful bugs:

  1. Echinacea: The flowers of this herb are well known for their ability to prevent or decrease the duration of the common cold. It also helps prevent the breakdown of the connective tissue that invading organisms encourage, which lets them spread.
  2. Turmeric and Garlic have anti-microbial, anti inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and expectorant properties. It is best taken with hot water and honey fresh after peeling.
  3. Astragalus increases phagocyte activity, the function of the natural killer cells, as well as increasing the levels of antibodies thus boosting all aspects of the immune system.

Our best bet for staying healthy and reducing our risk of falling ill is to eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and get plenty of exercise and adequate sleep every night.

Recognising the Symptoms of Stress

Monday, December 7th, 2009

The long-term effects of suffering from stress are well documented. They include cardiac disease, peripheral vascular disease, stroke, diabetes, heart attack, immune mediated diseases and more. In order to be able to reduce stress it is important for individuals to recognize the symptoms of stress in their lives. Only by recognizing the symptoms of stress will people be able to identify causes because without a symptom you won’t look for a cause.

Researchers believe that 12 million people in Great Britain suffer from mental health problems which include anxiety and depression and those numbers are even greater in the United States. Many of these mental health problems are related to the long-term effects of experiencing stress in your life. Psychologists believe that it is important to recognize early symptoms of stress in order to decrease the likelihood that there will be physical or psychological damage.

Physical symptoms of stress will include headaches which are repetitive and nature and different from the variety which we all experience now and then. In other words, it is following to have the occasional headache but getting them most days is important to take note of.

Other physical symptoms of stress can include muscle and back problems as well as general aches and pains and even skin issues. Acne is often the result of a change in hormonal balance which will be affected by the amount of stress and individual suffers. Weight gain is another warning sign of stress because many people are "stress eaters". This means that is when under stress people turn to food in order to comfort themselves. Unfortunately, most of these foods include cakes, chocolate, sugar and high processed snacks. All of these things will pile on the pounds.

Other physical symptoms include grinding teeth, heartburn, irritable bowel syndrome, and nausea, increased pain, frequent illnesses and increased sweating. Stress will negatively impact an individuals immune system which will cause them to become ill more frequently. Individuals who are stressed may also breath more shallow which results in frequent yawning as they are starving their body of oxygen.

Stress will also become evident in the emotional irritability and heightened sensitivity. This means that a person may find themselves crying more easily and more often than usual or may suffer from a general lumpiness that is unusual for them. In other people stress may cause them to withdraw or make less of an effort to keep up with their friends. Stress can also cause an individual to take less effort with their personal appearance and feel less bothered by their home environment as well.

The final type of symptoms are behavioural and psychologists believe that these are more likely to be noticed because they are more obvious. Some of these behavioural symptoms include the inability to make decisions, even trivial every day tasks which would normally be executed without hesitation are suddenly mind-boggling. Stress will also decrease the persons natural confidence and may results in a person who wavers on unimportant and important choices.

Other behavioural symptoms include breathlessness, irritability, frequently bored, worrying, nightmares, apathy and sexual problems or loss of libido. Individuals who find themselves getting angry easily and experiencing mood swings or having more problems in their relationships should consider the likelihood that they are feeling the physical and emotional results of stress in their lives.

It is important for people to identify the symptoms of stress that they are experiencing in their lives in order to recognize the necessity of identifying a cause. By decreasing stress people can improve their productivity, their time management skills and decrease the risk of experiencing any long-term physical effects which may place their life in danger.

The Importance of A Strong Immune System This Winter

Friday, November 27th, 2009

Its when the autumn is gone and you can feel a nip in the morning air, you know winter is not far. This weather is also a very favourable time for microorganisms to grow and multiply. The cold air inhaled causes the blood flow to certain parts of the throat to decrease, as a part of our body’s adaptation to decrease heat loss. This in turn compromises on the immunity at these sites, since the immune cells are essentially blood borne. The throat and upper respiratory tract become easy targets for invading organisms. It is important that we strengthen ourselves from within, in terms of a strong immune defence to fight such invasions this winter. With the added threat of swine flu it has never been more important!

It is important that you start top boost your immune system well ahead in time for the autumn; later October or beginning of November. It can take weeks to develop a strong and healthy immune system. A few things can help develop a strong immune system before winter sets in. The idea is to “have” a strong immune system when the winter starts, not to build up during the cold weather months. If you haven’t started yet though don’t worry – there are plenty of long cold months still ahead to protect yourself for.

Regular exercise is essential for a healthy immune system, as this helps stimulate our lymphatic system to make its specialized cells called lymphocytes, which help fight infection. Walking is one of the most effective forms of exercise to help your whole body function at its optimum, however cardiovascular & resistance exercises are also essential.

Fresh fruits are a rich source of vitamins essential to support and maintain the functioning of the immune system running at its best. A multi-vitamin is always a good idea too. At TrooHealthCare.com we also have specialist immune system support supplements such as ImmunityPlus which can give your body all the nutrients it needs to protect itself. We also have specialist supplements for children so you can keep your family safe too. Don’t delay – take a look at your immune system requirements today!

 

 

Battle of the Superfoods – Acai Berry vs Maqui Berry

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009

The Acai Berry and more recently the Maqui Berry are the two top super berries, both hailing from the exotic South America. The Acai comes from the dense rainforests of the Amazon, while Maqui is found further south, in the Patgonian area of Argentina and Chile.

Between the two the Acai fares somewhat better in taste, but what keeps consumers interested in these berries are their scientifically proven antioxidant contents and overall health benefits. Antioxidants protect our body against free radicals which are unstable molecules produced during day to day functioning of the cell. The antioxidant activity of these two berries is attributed to their content of a phytochemical, Anthocyanin. These antioxidant packed berries empower us to fight the pull of age, wear a healthy skin, stay active and look young.

Consumers, in their quest for the one which will promise a longer and disease-free life are now between two horns while searching for the overall better among the two berries.

The acai berry is an excellent source of anthocyanin. No one can argue against the benefits this berry provides to the human body.

The little deep purple Maqui berry on the other hand has now set the bar higher and in doing so set the wellness industry on fire. With its ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) content 4-10 times higher than that of the Acai berry the Maqui is set to become the new king of health supplements. Maqui berries also contain minerals such as iron, calcium and potassium; along with Vitamins A and C.

But the Acai does still win against the Maqui Berry in its rich content of Omega 3 essential fatty acids.

Finally, the factors that will drive home the popularity of Acai and Maqui berries are scientific research and raising public awareness of their superfruit credibility. Both the Acai and the potentially improved Maqui are touted to benefit weight loss, boost immune support, possess anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-carcinogenic properties, and definitely provide long term benefits like help to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.

 

 

Mangosteen and Arthritis Pain Relief

Monday, September 21st, 2009

As with many modern day superfoods the health benefits associated with Mangosteen range from anything between cancer to simple infections. What is more certain however is it’s anti-inflammatory properties and ability to help arthritis sufferers. This is a significant reason for the rise in the popularity of health supplements such as pure mangosteen capsules.Mangosteen has many beneficial characteristics, being rich in vitamins and minerals – especially vitamins B-1, B-2, B6, calcium, potassium and iron. Like most super-foods it is also a potent anti-oxidant, helping to fight off free radicals which attack the body. What is important in the case of arthritis though is that Mangosteen is an excellent source of xanthones, the cause of the powerful anti-inflammatory effect which aids arthritis pain relief. Research also indicates that the aforementioned presence of anti-oxidants and vitamins will help the body to absorb other vital nutrients which assist in self-healing and health promotion.To summarise Mangosteen provides a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory cocktail to help you keep a healthy and pain free body. Research indicates that the properties of the Mangosteen fruit can improve overall health and decrease pain and inflammation. As mentioned in a previous post though it is probably easier if you consume Mangosteen as a juice or supplement – otherwise you will be in need of climbing apparatus, a sharp knife and likely a long haul flight.

Health Benefits of Acidophilus

Sunday, August 2nd, 2009

As mentioned in our recent post about Diverticulitis, Acidophilus bacteria found in probiotic foods can be very beneficial in treating and aiding digestive problems. You can also benefit from a convenient and potent source of Acidophilus by the daily use of Acidophilus capsules. Acidophilus can have a great effect on digestive health and carries several other health benefits.

Acidophilus is a healthy bacteria that is found in an individuals stomach and is made up of many beneficial properties. It has a central effect on digestion and it promotes digestive and immune system health. It works by combating harmful germs in the digestive tract & influencing enzymatic activity. Acidophilus is a natural antibiotic agent and speeds up the production of acids in the intestinal track thus encouraging a favourable environment for friendly bacteria.

Acidophilus is helpful in the formation of Lactic acid; however some of studies have also shown a clinical effect on allergies. The consumption of acidophilus can alleviate the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, meaning it can be used as a long term allergy treatment. It has an intense beneficial influence on GI tract, liver & pancreas functioning. 

 

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