Sesame seeds are among the most ancient foods in the world. In fact, sesame plants are the earliest known plant species to be produced mostly for their seeds (pods) and oils instead of for their leaves, fruit or vegetables. Highly appreciated in Asian, African and Mediterranean cultures, sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum) have been used for centuries to flavor foods as well as to provide essential fats and improve skin health.
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What is the significance of sesame seeds towards health?
Sesame has among the highest oil contents of any seed along with a rich, nutty flavor. These flexible seeds have long been used by different civilizations around the world, but many people are unaware of their healthy qualities. Evidence demonstrates the benefits of these very small seeds in helping manage common health issues, such as cardiovascular disease, which gives us a lot of reasons to incorporate them into our everyday diet.
Sesame Seed Nutrition Facts
Sesame seeds come out of a flowering plant from the genus Sesamum. Sesame seed pods burst open when they reach full maturity. The actual seeds of the sesame plant are utilized to extract the valuable oils. Sesame seeds contain up to 55 percent oil and 20 percent protein, making them a rich supply of both essential fatty acids and certain amino acids. The seeds contain approximately 50 percent to 60 percent of a fatty oil that’s characterized by two positive members of the lignan family: sesamin and sesamolin. Sesame oil also contains two additional phenolic compounds, sesamol and sesaminol, that are formed through the refining procedure. Oil derived from polyunsaturated is high in linoleic and oleic acids, the vast majority of that are gamma-tocopherol, in addition to other isomers of vitamin. Sesame proteins (amino acids) include lysine, tryptophan and methionine.
One tablespoon of sesame seeds contains approximately:
52 calories
4 grams fat
1 gram carbs
2 grams of protein
4 milligrams copper (18 percent DV)
2 milligrams manganese (11 percent DV)
87 milligrams calcium (9 percent DV)
31 milligrams magnesium (8 percent DV)
3 milligrams iron (7 percent DV)
57 milligrams phosphorus (6 percent DV)
7 milligrams zinc (5 percent DV)
1 milligrams thiamine (5 percent DV)
High Supply of Cholesterol-Lowering Phytosterols
Sesame seeds rank highest in cholesterol-lowering phytosterols from almost all seeds, nuts, legumes and grains. Phytosterols are plant sterols structurally similar to cholesterol that act in the intestine to reduce cholesterol absorption. Phytosterols displace cholesterol inside the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the heart of accessible absorbable cholesterol. Some research has revealed that among 27 distinct nuts and seeds tested, sesame seeds have come out on top (along with wheat germ) as having the highest phytosterol content of them all. They feature approximately 400 grams of phytosterols with each 200 g of seeds. The phytosterol they supply is called beta-sitosterol, which can be tied to improved prostate health and arterial function.
Protect Heart Health
Research shows that lignans help improve lipid profiles and may normalize cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Lignans help naturally lower cholesterol in a couple of ways, they can lower both serum liver and blood cholesterol. Researchers occasionally refer to sesame seed phytochemicals as “hypocholesterolemic agents” for this particular reason. Fifty grams of sesame seed powder taken daily for more than five weeks by healthy adults has revealed favorable effects on total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, LDL-to-HDL cholesterol ratios and antioxidant status.
In an early study, hypercholesterolemic subjects treated with 32 mg/day of sesamin diminished their levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) following eight weeks, compared to control subjects from whom these levels remained unchanged. In another study, 21 subjects with hypercholesterolemia showed reductions in total cholesterol and LDL by 6.4 percent and 9.5 percent respectively, following the consumption of 40 gram of sesame seeds for four weeks. The decrease in cholesterol vanished, however, once the individuals resumed their normal diet for over four weeks. Sesame ingestion also exerts an antioxidant impact by multiplying the lag phase of LDL oxidation (the stage where oxidation proceeds very slowly).
Recent studies have confirmed these findings. Similar persistent reductions in total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, as well as the LDL:HDL ratio are detected when sesame extracts were given to people with elevated blood pressure and also to postmenopausal women. What’s more, in the analysis of hypertensive patients, which contrasted the cholesterol-lowering capability of sesame oil with sunflower and groundnut oils, sesame oil revealed superior antioxidant activity and better protection against lipid peroxidation compared to comparators.
Lipid peroxidation is a harmful free radical-generating procedure which frequently precedes the build up of plaque from the arteries (atherosclerosis). Sesame oil has just been shown to directly inhibit atherosclerosis lesion production, while beneficially altering the lipid profile. It’s believed that one potential mechanism whereby sesame lignans exert their beneficial effects may be by working synergistically with vitamin E in the body to improve blood and tissue levels of this biologically significant antioxidant.
Boost Blood Pressure
Sesame oil is thought to be a powerful antihypertensive as it helps stabilize blood pressure levels. One 2006 study published in The Yale Journal of Biological Medicine investigated the effects of hypertensive adults supplementing with sesame oil daily for 45 days and found that sesame could possibly be a great way to reduce blood pressure. After tracking various health markers of 32 hypertensive patients aged 35 to 60 years that was supplied sesame oil (Idhayam gingelly oil) to utilize it as the only edible oil for 45 days, the investigators discovered that sesame oil helped considerably lower high blood pressure, reduce lipid peroxidation and boost antioxidant status in the majority of individuals.
A recent human study to the effects of various edible oils in hypertensive patients being treated with nifedipine, an anti inflammatory therapy, revealed that sesame oil offered better protection, more than blood pressure, lipid profiles, and lipid peroxidation than either sunflower or groundnut oils. Sesame oil also positively improved both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants as well as all the other oils.
Other research has shown that the sesame lignans also have a beneficial impact on nitric oxide, a potent vasodilator with anti-atherosclerotic and antithrombotic properties. Dilation of blood vessels makes it a lot easier for blood to flow through, thus lowering the pressure inside the vessels. In one study, sesamol increased the release of nitric oxide in umbilical vein endothelial cells, while another study found that sesamin metabolites enhanced vasorelaxation too. The authors concluded that sesamin’s antihypertensive effects were directly associated with this vessel relaxation.
Further Clinical Research
Sesame was shown to reduce blood pressure at several small randomized, placebo controlled human research within 30 to 60 days. Sesame lowers BP independently or together with nifedipine diuretics and beta blockers. In several 13 mild hypertensive subjects, 60 mg of sesamin for 4 weeks lowered SBP 3.5 mmHg (de < 0.044) and DBP 1.9 mmHg (p < 0.045). Black sesame meal at 2.52 g/d more than 4 weeks in 15 subjects decreased SBP from 8.3 mmHg (p < 0.05) but there was a non-significant decrease in DBP of 4.2 mmHg[259]. Sesame oil in 35 g/d significantly lowered central blood pressure within 1 hour and also claimed blood pressure reduction chronically in 30 hypertensive areas, reduced heart rate, reduced arterial stiffness, decreased augmentation index and pulse wave velocity, decreased HSCRP, improved NO, diminished endothelin-Iand improved antioxidant ability.
In addition sesame lowers serum sugar, HgbAIC and LDL-C, raises HDL, reduces oxidative stress markers and in-creases glutathione, SOD, GPx, CAT, vitamins C, E and A. The active ingredients are organic ACEI’s such as sesamin, sesamolin, sesaminol glucosides, furou-furan lignans which also suppressors of NF-?B. Each of these effects lower inflammation and oxidative stress, improve oxidative defense and reduce blood pressure.
Many clinical research and evidence-based findings have demonstrated the benefits of sesame oil for cardiovascular disease, where the consumption of sesame can protect overall heart health as well as lower cholesterol and boost blood pressure levels. Although these results have been displayed in several research studies, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional to discuss your options. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CVD results in 611,105 deaths every year. The most common types of cardiovascular diseases include angina, high blood pressure, or hypertension, heart attack, and atherosclerosis. Cardiovascular disease can develop because of a variety of factors, but it’s widely considered that your risk of heart health issues could be significantly affected by lifestyle choices, such as that of an improper diet and nutrition.
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How can seaweed contribute to heart health?
Over the past few decades, researchers have indicated that seaweed may have significant effects on cardiovascular disease. Because of its heart health benefits, we ought to be doing more to include these sea vegetables into our diets. Seaweed covers a vast selection of marine macroalgae, which can be categorized into three groups: brown algae (Phaeophyceae), green algae (Chlorophyta) and red algae (Rhodophyta). Many seaweed species possess an assortment of health benefits. They comprise, among other things, beneficial proteins, antioxidants, minerals, trace elements, dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Seaweed is a rich source of proteins known as bioactive peptides. These chemicals have a similar impact to ACE inhibitor drugs and medications, which are prescribed to help lower blood pressure and prevent heart attacks and strokes.
Seaweed and Cardiovascular Disease
Even though there is not any consensual definition for the word “functional food” globally, this is vastly accepted for foods and food components that have been demonstrated to offer certain health benefits beyond the basic nutrition. The design of functional foods is hence undoubtedly associated to the notion of preventing diseases and/or improving optimal health of consumers, besides the simple nourishment requirements.
Seaweed has been a staple ingredient in Asian cultures for centuries. Given the evidence of the beneficial health effects of seaweeds and/or isolates of macroalgae source, there’s a strong case for their inclusion in regular meals (food and beverages), so as to take advantage of their nutrient benefits. It is expected that the joint efforts of business and research in this field will result throughout the forthcoming decades, in a high number of new functional food products reaching to the current market, including those meant to promote heart health.
As per a study review (over 100 research studies), published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, scientists called for “more attempt to exploit the bioactive compounds as well as their potential for utilization and delivery to consumers in food goods. In a study published in the journal Phycologia, researchers suggest that adding seaweed to processed foods may decrease cardiovascular disease. The authors referred their attention to the manufacturers of such foods to fulfill a responsibility for the well-being of their customers.
Clinical Research
Ole G. Mouritsen, a professor of biophysics at the University of Southern Denmark, and colleagues, examined existing knowledge on the health effects of 35 different seaweed species. In the guide, they provide hints to how both individual consumers and the food industry can use seaweed to create everyday healthier meals. By way of instance, dried and granulated seaweed can substitute some of the flour when producing dry pasta, bread, pizza and snack bars, together with as small as a 5 percent replacement needed. Seaweed salt, according to researchers, can also be a healthier salt. Seaweed’s content of potassium salts does not lead to high blood pressure, unlike the sodium salts, typically used in the processed food.
“We all know that many individuals have difficulty distinguishing between healthy and unhealthy food. With the addition of seaweed to processed foods we could produce healthier food. In many cases we also get tastier food, and it may also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases,” the researchers stated. “It is difficult to determine how much seaweed an individual should have to benefit from its great qualities. Five to 10 g of dried seaweed daily is my quote,” states Mouritsen, who has authored several books on seaweed as a healthy food source.
The development of functional foods using seaweeds for boosting heart health have been particularly examined in meat-based products. In these products, it is very important to improve the fatty acid composition and the material of functional ingredients, while decreasing the contents of cholesterol, fat and salt. Different authors have reported that nutritional worth of meat products can be significantly enhanced by the incorporation of whole seaweeds, without hampering quality and sensory properties. Besides, a remarkable work was done by Schultz-Moreira et al., because combined with describing the enhanced nutritional value of restructured meat once augmented with seaweeds, they also assessed different parameters (e.g., lipid profile, antioxidant enzymes and arylesterase) with effect on cardiovascular disease, as demonstrated in hypertensive rats. Additionally, Lim et al. also revealed that chicken and pork patties fortified with Laminaria japonica could improve postprandial plasma glucose and lipids profiles in borderline-hyperlipidemic adults.
For the last decades, development of drinks with seaweeds or extracts has also become the focus of distinct investigations and of many patent registrations. Among those, researchers have patented a beverage containing water-insoluble algal nutritional fibers (0.01% to 20 percent) and citric acid, sugar, fruit juice, plant thickeners and water, which may prevent from distinct diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases. Besides patents, research studies reported the effects of functional drinks. In general, these studies highlighted that beverages made by incorporating macroalgae, particularly using Ecklonia cava, could be of advantage not only because of their minerals and phenolics richness, but also due to their ability to target ACE-I.
Further Clinical Research
Wakame seaweed (Undaria pinnatifida) is the most popular, edible seaweed in Japan. In humans, 3.3 g of dried Wakame for four months significantly reduced both the SBP 14 � 3 mmHg and the DBP 5 � 2 mmHg (p < 0.01). In a study of 62 middle-aged, male subjects with mild hypertension given a potassium-loaded, ion-exchanging, sodium-adsorbing, potassium-releasing seaweed prepara-tion, significant blood pressure reductions occurred at four months on 12 and 24 g/d of the seaweed preparation (p < 0.01). The MAP fell 11.2 mmHg (p < 0.001) in the sodium-sensitive themes and 5.7 mmHg (p < 0.05) in the sodium-insensitive subjects, which connected with PRA.
Seaweed and sea vegetables contain most all of the seawater’s 77I minerals and rare earth elements, fiber and alginate in a colloidal form. The primary effect of Wakame seems to be via its ACEI activity from at least four parent tetrapeptides and possibly their dipeptide and tripeptide metabolites, especially those containing the amino acid sequence Val-Tyr, Ile-Tyr, Phe-Tyr and Ile-Try in certain combination. Its long-term use in Japan has shown its effectiveness. Other varieties of seaweed may reduce BP by decreasing intestinal sodium absorption and raising intestinal potassium absorption.
Conclusion
Seaweeds are a great source of compounds with varied applications, including for heart health and cardiovascular disease, or CVD. This simple fact leaves macroalgae and crude/purified extracts, a possibility of program as ingredients in the formulation of new functional foods in that health field. There’s evidence that diet supplementation with whole macroalgae or products of macroalgae origin can ameliorate several mechanisms underlying the onset and propagation of CVDs. However, we must emphasize that the challenge of working with these components in novel foods should not be restricted to the improvement of the nutritional formulations, but instead, efforts should be done in order to test the promised health benefits of the new products.�The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a serious, painful nerve injury that affects many people in the United States. CTS occurs when the median nerve, which runs down a person’s forearm to his or her hand, gets compressed in the eight bones in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This injury is frequently caused over time by repetitive motion such as assembly line work, and is the most expensive work-related injury. Symptoms of CTS include pain and numbness of the hand and wrist. While there are a variety of treatment options available to those who are afflicted with carpal tunnel syndrome up to and including surgery, chiropractic care has become a popular and effective option.
Here are four ways patients with carpal tunnel syndrome benefit from chiropractic care.
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Chiropractic Care Is Documented To Work On Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
While there are no guarantees that any one mode of treatment will work on every person, two studies have shown strong results that back the effectiveness of chiropractic treatment on CTS.
In both cases, the majority of participants showed significant improvement in several measures such as range of motion, finger sensation, and pain reduction. These studies provide evidence to people suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients can feel confident in improving their symptoms when choosing to pursue a chiropractor’s care.
Chiropractors Provide A Less Invasive Treatment Option.
Carpal tunnel syndrome, particularly cases that have gone undiagnosed or treated for an extended period of time, that ends up being too painful and advanced to be handled with medicine may face surgery. However, chiropractic care often helps minimize that option as a last resort. Regular visits to a chiropractor can show positive results in the controlling and healing of many of the CTS symptoms.
Chiropractic Care Offers An Alternative To Drugs To Manage Pain
As with surgery, daily doses of medicine may be a less than ideal plan when managing carpal tunnel syndrome. Certain patients may suffer from issues with the medicine, CTS medicines may conflict with other medication, or they may simply not want to take daily medications.
If medicinal treatment is not an attractive option, a chiropractor appointment is the next logical step. Chiropractic care often helps CTS by adjusting the patient’s elbow and spine.
Another common treatment is bracing. This technique limits the hand’s movements with the goal of allowing the wrist and tendons to heal and recover.
A chiropractor who is experienced with carpal tunnel syndrome is able to review each case individually and make solid treatment recommendations that can alleviate the patient’s dependence on managing the pain with drugs.
Allows Patients To Learn How To Manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Unfortunately, health problems that produce chronic pain can take a toll on the patient not only physically, but psychologically. Dealing with CTS can make a person feel powerless over their own body. Working with a chiropractor to relieve, control, and heal the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome empowers the patient to be able to feel ownership of managing and improving his or her health.
Workers who perform repetitive tasks daily as part of their job need to be especially aware of the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Feeling pain, numbness, tingling, or burning in their palms or fingers may be the first symptoms of CTS. The earlier it’s diagnosed, the more effective less-invasive treatment will be.
Of all the carpal tunnel syndrome treatment choices, chiropractic care offers the dual benefits of being a highly effective treatment while still employing tactics that are not as invasive as other options. If you or a loved one are suffering from this condition, give us a call. We�re here to help!
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
While back pain is a known and widely-studied issue in adults, its prevalence in school-aged children has received comparatively little scientific attention. Elementary, middle, and high school students must often carry backpacks that weigh enough to cause chronic back pain, poor posture, and even decreased lung volume. Recently, several studies reveal the truths behind childhood back pain and ways to mitigate it.
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Are Backpacks Too Heavy for Kids?
Recent research supports that children carrying backpack loads of more than ten percent of their bodyweight have a greater risk of developing back pain and related issues. An international study found that an alarmingly large proportion of school-aged children in Australia, France, Italy, and the United States regularly carried backpacks weighing more than the ten percent threshold.
In another study involving a sample of 1540 metropolitan school-aged children, over a third of the children surveyed reported back pain. In addition to carrying heavy backpacks, female students and those diagnosed with scoliosis had a greater association with back pain. Children with access to lockers reported less pain.
The number of straps on the backpack had little impact on the respondents’ answers. Children also reported limited physical activity due to back pain, and some took medication to relieve the pain.
Girls who carried purses in addition to wearing a backpack reported significantly greater back pain. Adolescents with back pain spent more time watching television than their peers. Over 80 percent of those surveyed believed that carrying a heavy backpack caused their back pain.
Proper Backpack Carrying Techniques
The studies revealed several factors that may help reduce back pain in school-aged children. The best way to prevent back pain is to avoid carrying heavy loads.
Children should take advantage of locker breaks and only carry items necessary for a couple of classes at a time. When lifting a backpack, children should crouch down and bend their knees rather than curve the spine.
Children should avoid carrying over 10 percent of their bodyweight in their backpack. For example, an 8th-grader weighing 120 pounds should carry no more than 12 pounds.
Place the heaviest objects at the back of the pack.
Make sure the items fit as snugly as possible to minimize back pain due to shifting weight.
Adjust the shoulder straps so they fit snugly over your child’s shoulders and the backpack doesn’t drag your child backward. The bottom of the pack should be less than four inches below your child’s waist.
Children should avoid carrying backpacks slung over one shoulder, as it can cause spinal pain and general discomfort.
Encourage your child to carry only necessary items in their backpack. Additional items can be carried in hand.
Look for backpacks with helpful features such as multiple compartments for even weight distribution, padded straps to protect the shoulders and neck, and waist belt.
If your child’s school allows, consider a rollerpack, which rolls across the floor like a suitcase.
If problems continue, talk to your child’s teacher or principal about implementing paperback textbooks, lighter materials, or digital versions.
Chiropractic Care Can Help
If your child continues to experience back pain, contact your local chiropractor. Chiropractic care benefits many adults with spinal discomfort, and licensed practitioners can provide tailored treatments for children.
Chiropractors can also recommend safe exercises to improve back strength, and additional advice on proper nutrition to build strong bones and joints, healthy posture, and more. If your child is experiencing back pain from carrying a backpack, gives us a call. We�re here to help!
Backpack Safety
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
Perfect Pillow:Neck pain is nobody’s friend, and it is definitely not an ideal sleeping companion. Pain-filled nights can leave a person dull,�groggy, and not ready to face the day in the morning. Unfortunately, certain sleeping positions can further aggravate neck pain to the point it robs a person of a good night’s sleep.
If you suffer from neck pain, the toll it takes on deep sleep�isn’t news to you. What may surprise you, however, is choosing the right or perfect pillow can make a huge difference in whether you lie awake grumpily watching the clock or snuggle cozily�into dream land.
A million pillow choices await you.�The first order of business is determining the primary position you sleep in. Certain shapes of pillows cradle the head and neck more comfortably, depending on the sleeping position.
Now that you have determined your favorite sleeping position, you are ready to shop for a new perfect pillow. Be certain to keep these five�tips in mind before you settle on your new bed mate.
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When Choosing The Perfect Pillow:
#1: Ask For A Recommendation From Your Chiropractor.
Before selecting your new pillow, talk to the person who understands the cause of your neck pain, your chiropractor. He or she will�give you some valuable pointers on choosing the pillow that will be most beneficial.
#2: Do Your Research.
Fire up the Internet and search for pillows by your sleeping position. Read the reviews from people who also have neck pain, and see which pillows helped them. Note the pillow name, price, and store that sells it.
#3: Think About The Filling.
Pillows are filled with a variety of materials, and you will need to consider which one is right for you. Feather pillows may offer neck comfort, but if you are allergic this is the wrong choice.
Memory foam is a popular choice because of it’s ability to contour to your body’s shape. Give some thought to the type of filling that best suits your sleeping style.
#4: Consider The Size.
Pillows should generally be between 4-6 inches in height, and should alleviate the pressure points around your neck and shoulders. Extra thick pillows or especially flat ones are most likely the wrong choices (again, this depends on your�sleeping position).
Your size should also be considered when choosing a pillow. A large person needs a bigger pillow, while a more petite person should go with a smaller pillow. The bottom line is the pillow should provide support and comfort, and hold your neck in a neutral position.
#5: Don’t Try To ‘Make Do’ With A Budget Pillow.
Pillows designed to reduce neck pain are not going to be cheap. With all the less expensive pillows available, its tempting to settle for a more modestly priced option.
Before you end up spending a smaller amount of cash on a pillow that won’t alleviate your current problem, remember the many painful nights and groggy mornings that you would have paid a ton of money just to feel good. Then open your wallet and buy the�pillow that will minimize that from ever�happening again. Parting with the cash won’t kill you. We promise.
Neck pain and the lack of sleep that�results is a serious issue. Addressing it with a good chiropractor is the first step toward improving the situation.
Shopping for the perfect pillow is a close second in importance. By following these tips and taking the time to choose the right pillow, you will be snoozing away pain-free in no time at all!
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
Cardiovascular disease, abbreviated as CVD, is an intricate group of heart-related conditions which are considered to be the top cause of death among Americans and Europeans. Unfortunately, the prevalence of cardiovascular disease is increasing rapidly in developing nations as well. Therefore, finding safe and effective strategies to treat and prevent cardiovascular disease, or CVD, has become a significant priority around the globe.
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What are some safe and effective treatment strategies for cardiovascular disease?
Many factors contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, which involve high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and congenital cardiovascular defects. Epidemiological studies investigating CVD risk factors have pointed to the role of elevated serum lipids (including cholesterol and triglycerides), elevated blood pressure, or BP, increased platelet aggregation, increased plasma fibrinogen and coagulation factors, alterations in glucose metabolism, as well as smoking. Reduced risk of CVD is associated with increased serum levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), normalization of abnormal lipid levels, inhibition of platelet aggregation, and increased antioxidant status, according to some research studies.
While these various factors have been determined to lead to cardiovascular disease, dietary factors have been known to play a major role in CVD, where Mediterranean diets, fish, fruit, and whole grains have also been proven to reduce CVD risk. One research study where patients admitted with severe cardiovascular disease were interviewed, found that 78 percent were using natural health products; such utilization was recorded by pharmacists in 41 percent of patients, by doctors in 22 percent and by nurses in 19 percent. Among all the natural health products used to treat cardiovascular disease, garlic (Allium sativa, Family Liliaceae) has been in the top five best selling herbs, and is the most popular herb used by patients with CVD.
History
Garlic has been a significant element in many cultures for centuries. Ancient Ayurvedic texts consult health benefits of garlic concerning improving blood circulation and strengthening the heart. The Egyptian Codex Ebers (1500 BC) recommended garlic for heart disease, and also for tumors, worms and a number of other conditions. The Greek physician, Hippocrates (400 BC), along with the Roman authority, Pliny the Elder (77 AD), recommended garlic for the cardiovascular system. Clinical work as early as 1926 found garlic to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular disease. These effects were again mentioned in the 1960’s and 1970’s when numerous studies noted a decrease in serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, these early studies were conducted using raw garlic administered at very high doses (between seven and 28 cloves per day).
Pharmacology
Garlic’s odor problem has led to much work being done to find more palatable and less odorous formulations. The odor, as well as garlic’s cardiovascular effects, is caused by sulfur-containing compounds. Garlic cloves contain nearly all their sulfur at a storage compound called alliin (a name coming from garlic’s botanical name, Allium sativum). Raw garlic also contains an enzyme known as alliinase. When raw garlic is crushed or cut, the alliinase interacts with alliin to make allicin. The distinctive aroma and flavor of garlic is a result of allicin, which is very volatile and unstable, breaking down either in a couple of hours at room temperature or after a few minutes of cooking. An in vitro study found that garlic’s ability to inhibit platelet aggregation wasn’t changed after 3 minutes or less of immersion. After 6 minutes, cloves had no action, whereas some activity was retained by crushed garlic. After 10 minutes, all activity was gone. By microwaving for approximately 2 minutes, all activity was removed from many samples.
As allicin breaks down or is metabolized, dozens of other more stable sulfur compounds are formed. A number of them are active. Allicin is converted into polysulfides and ajoene which could be stable for over a year, when garlic is macerated with oil. However, each compound’s precise action remains uncertain. Most regard the sulfur-containing compounds as crucial to the health benefits of garlic, although those compounds are also responsible for garlic’s odor-problems. The ways garlic has been processed direct to preparations with various compounds, which might be inconsistent.
Mechanism of Action
In spite of considerable numbers of in vitro research, the component(s) in garlic accountable for its cardiovascular effects remain unclear. Garlic impacts the cardiovascular system via several mechanisms, but a lot of its constituents are biologically active and uncertainty remains about the way they all interact. Ajoene and other compounds inhibit platelet aggregation, which can help prevent cardiovascular disease, or CVD. Allicin has antiplatelet aggregating activity, even though its instability makes it difficult to fully study its clinical effects. Several garlic components inhibit liver enzymes involved in making cholesterol, such as HMG-CoA reductase (the enzyme inhibited by statins), and many others reduced plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels through unclear mechanisms of activity. Garlic also contains antioxidants that could counteract the development of atherosclerosis. Components cause muscle relaxation, which could contribute to decreased hypertension, a common issue along with cardiovascular disease.
Various sulfur compounds derived from garlic trigger the release of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from human red blood cells. H2S,�naturally occurring cell signaling molecule, provides protection against oxidative damage, including smooth muscle relaxation, and decreased blood pressure. This new research might lead to a means of standardizing preparations, and sheds light on the potential mechanisms of action of garlic.
Clinical Research
Many laboratory and animal tests have demonstrated that garlic and its components have biological activities related to cardiovascular disease; nonetheless, controversy continues over the clinical significance of these findings. Results of trials have been conflicting, with early studies frequently finding beneficial effects that were not replicated in more recent trials which were usually of higher methodological quality. The impact of garlic intake or supplementation on serum cholesterol and lipid levels has received the most research.
Two meta-analyses published in 1993 and 1996 generated curiosity about garlic because they reported 9 percent and 12 percent reductions in total cholesterol levels. More recent meta-analyses have come to various conclusions; one printed in 2009 concluded that there was no evidence from randomized controlled trial (RCTs) of garlic with any favorable effects on serum cholesterol. However, the research in that meta-analysis was criticized for not being comprehensive. The latest evaluation analyzed literature published up to October 2011 – 12 and contained 26 RCTs reporting the effects of garlic on various serum lipids. In general, garlic considerably reduced serum total cholesterol from 0.28 mmol/L (P = 0.001) and triglycerides by 0.13 mmol/L (P < 0.001). At the exact same time, no significant differences were found for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), HDL-C, apolipoprotein B, and overall cholesterol/HDL-C ratio.�The reviewers calculated that the substantial differences were equal to a 5.4 percent decrease in total cholesterol levels to someone with a baseline amount of 5 mmol/L and a 6.5 percent reduction in triglyceride levels for somebody starting with a 2 mmol/L level. The daily doses most widely utilized in the studies reviewed were 10 to 15 mg garlic oil, 900 mg garlic powder, and 1 to 7 g aged garlic extract. Study duration ranged from two weeks to 12 months, with the majority of trials lasting 3 or 6 months.
Many studies have analyzed the role of garlic aids in lowering blood pressure. A 1994 meta-analysis of 10 randomized, controlled trials reported an overall significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure of 5 and 8 mmHg. Another meta-analysis published in 2008 comprised 11 RCTs and reported a general decrease of 4.56 mmHg in systolic blood pressure for people taking garlic (P < 0.001). Diastolic blood pressure did not change significantly compared to placebo. There was a planned sub-group analysis conducted comparing those who were normotensive or hypertensive . The hypertensive subgroup had considerable reductions of 8.4 and 7.3 mmHg for systolic and diastolic blood pressures, respectively. Substantial reductions were not shown by the subgroup that is normotensive. The reviewers noted that discounts of 4 to 5 mmHg systolic and 2 to 3 mmHg diastolic are held to be important. At precisely the exact same time, some RCTs have found no significant differences between classes carrying placebo and garlic.
Although a lot of garlic elements have demonstrated antioxidant properties, comparatively few studies are done on the clinical importance of the effects. Another product called aged garlic extract (AGE; brand name Kyolic) is made by soaking garlic slivers in alcohol for 20 months, removing most allicin, and leaving an infusion high in antioxidant capacity. An RCT with 65 patients examined the impact of AGE (250 mg/d) and multivitamins on subclinical atherosclerosis. After 1 year, those in the AGE group had significantly better results than the control group for cognitive markers, vascular function, and progression of atherosclerosis. Another RCT found that people taking 960 milligrams AGE had considerably more reduction in systolic blood pressure (by 10.2 mmHg; P = 0.03).21 However, the total number of clinical studies assessing AGE remains small.
Garlic and its elements have been found to affect platelet aggregation and other aspects of blood clotting. Fibrinolysis leads to the breakdown of blood clots, and this process is promoted by various types of garlic preparations. Platelet aggregation has been beneficially affected by garlic in a small number of clinical trials. However, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality evaluation concluded that these results must be taken as preliminary. While most of the studies identified for this evaluation had beneficial outcomes, the studies were all very modest, of limited duration, and some had flaws.
Adverse Effects
Garlic is well-known for its problematic breath and body odor after oral ingestion. These are the most commonly reported complaints from trial participants. Eating raw garlic and high doses of some supplements can cause mouth and gastrointestinal irritation, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Some individuals are also vulnerable to allergic reactions, one study estimated that 1 percent of people are prone to allergic reactions from garlic.
The effects of garlic on platelet aggregation and fibrinolysis may raise the risk of bleeding, but that is mostly theoretical. While few studies or case reports have found such adverse consequences, individuals taking anticoagulants, those scheduled for an invasive process, or those with bleeding problems must be aware of this possible adverse effect. Some case reports of postoperative bleeding have been reported. But a randomized, controlled trial detected no change in bleeding events among individuals taking warfarin when given both garlic (AGE formula) or placebo. In vitro investigations have identified enzymes whose activities are impacted by aged garlic extracts. These results raise concerns that garlic might interfere with the metabolism of various drugs and medications. Though patients didn’t possess decreased serum levels actual interactions have been reported.
Conclusion
Overall, garlic preparations have some significance as a complementary agent in reducing some risk factors related to cardiovascular disease, or CVD. The evidence in studies indicated a range of benefits, but a number of these studies had small numbers of participants, have been of short duration, or had other methodological weaknesses. Higher-quality studies have found more limited benefits. Reductions in blood pressure, triglycerides, and total cholesterol are identified in meta-analyses. Several other effects have been discovered with research. Given its good safety profile, garlic may offer some protection from cardiovascular diseases, according to the research studies and conclusive data. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, monounsaturated fat and fish, moderate alcohol consumption but poor in salt, saturated fat and simple sugars, can play a fundamental role in protect against cardiovascular disease, or CVD. Cocoa, coffee and tea, unfairly not included in the �traditional healthy food basket�, have received much attention over the past few years.
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Can drinks like chocolate, coffee and tea help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?
If for no other reason, tea, coffee and cocoa, have been recognized within the medical field because, not only are they consumed worldwide, they are also important dietary sources of polyphenols (flavonols and cathechins). Several in vitro and in vivo studies have tried to elucidate the role of these foods, as well as various other compounds like pomegranate juice, and a large amount of experimental studies clearly indicated a beneficial effect of polyphenols in influencing cardiovascular disease. However, some data from epidemiological studies has not been entirely conclusive.
The Drinks: Tea, Coffee, and Cocoa
Green tea, black tea and extracts of active elements in both have shown reduction in blood pressure, or BP, in humans. In a double blind placebo-controlled trial of 379 hypertensive individuals whom were given green tea infusion 370 mg/d for approximately 3 months, their blood pressure was reduced significantly at 4/4 mmHg with simultaneous decrease in HS CRP, TNF-?, glucose and insulin levels.
Dark chocolate (100 g) and cocoa with a high content of polyphenols (30 milligrams or more) are demonstrated to significantly reduce BP in people. A meta-analysis of 173 hypertensive subjects given cocoa for a mean duration of 2 weeks had a substantial decrease in BP 4.7/2.8 mmHg (p = 0.002 for SBP and 0.006 for DBP). Fifteen subjects given 100 grams of dark chocolate with 500 mg of poly-phenols for 15 days had a 6.4 mmHg decrease in SBP (p < 0.05) with a non-significant shift in DBP. Cocoa in 30 mg of poly-phenols reduced BP at pre-hypertensive and stage I hypertensive patients by 2.9/1.9 mmHg at 18 weeks (p < 0.001). Two more recent meta-analysis of 13 trials and 10 trials with 297 patients found a substantial decrease in BP of 3.2/2.0 mmHg and 4.5/3.2 mmHg respectively. BP decreases with cocoa doses of 6 to 100. Cocoa also improves insulin resistance and endothelial function.
Polyphenols, chlorogenic acids (CGAs), the ferulic acid metabolite of CGAs and di-hydro-caffeic acids decrease BP at a dose dependent fashion, enhance eNOS and enhance endothelial function in humans. CGAs in green coffee been extract at doses of 140 reduced SBP and DBP in 28 subjects in a placebo-controlled randomized trial. A dose response was demonstrated by A study of 122 male subjects with doses of CGA in DBP and SBP from 46. The group that received the 185 mg dose had a substantial decrease in BP of 5.6/3.9 mmHg (p < 0.01) over 28 days. Hydroxyhydroquinone is just another element of coffee beans that reduces the effectiveness of CGAs in a dose-dependent way which partly explains the conflicting outcomes of coffee intake on BP. What’s more, there is genetic variation in the enzyme responsible for the modified metabolism of caffeine between coffee intake, amount of coffee consumed and the risk of hypertension, heart rate, MI, arterial stiffness, arterial wave reflections and urinary catecholamine levels. Percent of the population has theIF/IA allele of their CYP1A2 genotype which confers metabolism of caffeine. Heavy coffee drinkers who are slow metabolizers had a 3.00 HR for developing hypertension. By comparison, rapid metabolizers with theIA/IA allele have a 0.36 HR for incident hypertension.
Additional compounds
Melatonin effects were demonstrated in a randomized placebo controlled clinical trials among several chosen individuals. The typical reduction in blood pressure is 6/3 mmHg. Melatonin stimulates GABA receptors in the CNS and vascular nitric oxide, inhibits plasma A II levels, improves function, raises NO, vasodilates, enhances lowers cortisol and is additive with ARBs. Beta blockers reduce melatonin secretion.
Hesperidin significantly reduced DBP 3-4 mmHg (p< 0.02) and improved microvascular endothelial reactivity in 24 obese hypertensive male subjects in a randomized, controlled crossover study over 4 weeks for all three treatment groups consuming 500 mL of orange juice, hesperidin or placebo. Pomegranate juice is rich in tannins and has numerous other properties which improve cardiovascular disease and overall heart health, as well as reducing the SBP by 5 percent to 12 percent. An analysis of 51 healthy subjects given 330 mg/d of pomegranate juice had a decrease in blood pressure of 3.14/2.33 mmHg (p < 0.001). Pomegranate juice also suppresses the increase in SBP after a high-fat meal.
Pomegranate juice reduces serum ACE activity by 36 percent, and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-atherogenic consequences. Pomegranate juice at 50 mL/d reduced carotid IMT by 30 percent over one year, increased PON 83 percent, diminished oxLDL by 59 percent to 90 percent, decreased antibodies to oxLDL by 19 percent, increased overall antioxidant status by 130 percent, decreased TGF-?, improved catalase, SOD and GPx, increased eNOS and NO, and improved endothelial function. Pomegranate juice works just like an ACEI.
Grape seed extract (GSE) was administered to subjects in nine randomized trials, meta-analysis of 390 subjects and demonstrated a significant reduction in SBP of 1.54 mmHg (p < 0.02). Substantial decrease in BP of 11/8 mmHg (p < 0.05) were seen in a different dose response study with 150 to 300 mg/d of GSE over 4 wk. GSE has high content which activates the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway that phosphorylates increases and eNOS NO.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, drinks, such as tea, coffee and cocoa, and additional compounds, such as melatonin, hesperidin, pomegranate juice and grape seek extract, have been widely researched in many studies, primarily due to their worldwide popularity, several of which demonstrated positive outcomes towards naturally preventing and treating cardiovascular disease, among other health issues, by improving blood pressure levels. Pycnogenol, These drinks and additional compounds, have been noted to help improve CVD by reducing the risk hypertension, as well as improving endothelial function, an important factor in the regulation of blood circulation, among many other health benefits.
Although the above drinks and compounds have shown to have many health benefits, it’s important to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation for an existing condition or disease.The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
A balanced diet provides us with a variety of compounds necessary to sustain the complex systems and functions of the human body, however, some foods and/or supplements can provide more health benefits than the basic nutrition. Tomatoes, for example, are rich in lycopene, a compound that can reduce the risk of stroke and prostate cancer. While the list of beneficial substances is growing, one substance has gained more recognition from healthcare professionals when it comes to preventing and treating cardiovascular disease: pycnogenol.
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How can Pycnogenol prevent and treat cardiovascular disease?
Pycnogenol, a pine bark extract that you may have never heard of, may be a fundamental ingredient which can give your general well-being a boost. In fact, Dr. Russell Blaylock, author of The Blaylock Wellness Report, believes it ought to be a part of everybody’s health regimen, especially when it comes to it’s benefits towards cardiovascular disease.
Pycnogenol is a patented form of pine bark extract made using the bark of the maritime pine that grows in France. Pine bark extract contains procyanidins, a form of catechins, similiar to those found in green tea, cocoa, and grape seed extract. Pycnogenol also has a unique combination of powerful antioxidant components in addition to procyanidins, including bioflavonoids and phenolic acids, that neutralize disease-causing free radicals in the body. Furthermore, this form of pine bark extract is believed to increase skin elasticity as well as reduce both oxidative stress and collagen degradation, reducing the effects of aging.
Benefits of Pycnogenol & Cardiovascular Disease
An Italian study published in Phytotherapy Research found that supplementing a diet with Pycnogenol reduced the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome may raise the risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and stroke.
When the study began, study participants had all five risk factors for metabolic syndrome as defined by the American Heart Association. Patients were divided into 2 groups and were given either 50 milligram tablets of Pycnogenol, three times every day or placebo tablets. Almost 90 percent of the patients at the Pycnogenol group showed improvement in all five groups.
“Pycnogenol was also discovered to aid individuals struggling with metabolic syndrome by controlling blood lipids, blood glucose and blood pressure”, said lead researcher Dr. Gianni Belcaro. Results demonstrate that those who commissioned exercise and a healthy diet were able to boost heart health and lose weight, attaining an body mass index. “This research offers evidence that daily supplementation with Pycnogenol can offer a natural approach to help achieve wholesome blood pressure, improved cholesterol and blood sugar levels and finally, greater cardiovascular wellness”, Gianni said.
In a small study of healthy people, concerning the use of Pycnogenol to control bad cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, or blood lipids, Pycnogenol lowered levels while good cholesterol, or HDL cholesterol, were raised. In a second randomized placebo-controlled study of men with cholesterol levels, Pycnogenol was found to lower total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol but elevate HDL cholesterol. Triglycerides, another kind of fat found in the blood, weren’t affected. In a study of 48 patients with type 2 diabetes, Pycnogenol seemed to reduce LDL cholesterol compared with placebo.
In another research study, Pycnogenol at doses of 200 mg/d led to a substantial reduction in SBP from 139.9 mmHg into 132.7 mmHg (p < 0.05) in eleven patients with mild hypertension for more than eight weeks at a double-blind placebo placebo crossover trial. Diastolic BP fell from 93.8 mmHg to 92.0 mmHg. Pycnogenol functions as a ACEI, in which it improves renal cortical blood circulation, reduces serum thromboxane concentrations, decreases myelo-peroxidase activity, protects cell membranes from oxidative stress, reduces urinary albumin excretion, decreases HS-CRP and increases NO and improves endothelial function. Other studies have shown reductions in BP reductions in endothelin-1, and a need for CCB and ACEI, HgA1C, fasting glucose, LDL-C and myeloperoxidase.
The endothelium is the layer of the blood vessels. This thin layer that is cellular plays an significant function in the regulation of blood circulation. Endothelial function is found among individuals with diabetes, cardiovascular disease and hypertension. One double-blind placebo-controlled analysis of 58 patients with blood pressure found that endothelial function daily enhanced. Another double-blind, randomized crossover study on 28 patients with coronary artery disease found that 200 mg of daily for eight weeks improved endothelial function
Dr. Blaylock adds even more benefits of Pycnogenol. “It is exceptional in reducing the signs and symptoms of varicose veins, inhibits oral and all other cancers, also protects against kidney and auditory nerve damage by antibiotics”, ” he states. “In addition, it suppresses atherosclerosis and soothes atherosclerotic plaque, the main cause of a heart attack”.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pycnogenol has been widely researched in many studies, several of which demonstrated positive outcomes towards naturally preventing and treating cardiovascular disease, among other health issues. Pycnogenol, the form of pine bark extract we covered above, has been noted to help improve CVD by reducing the risk factors of metabolic syndrome, controlling “bad cholesterol” and balancing “good cholesterol”, as well as improving endothelial function, an important factor in the regulation of blood circulation, among many other health benefits.
Although Pycnogenol has shown to have many health benefits, it’s important to seek medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplementation for an existing condition or disease. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Fruits and vegetables are essential sources of vitamins and minerals. Many groups of these plant-based foods provide the body with fundamental nutrients, where some are richer in several varieties of vitamins and minerals, than others. Many fruits and vegetables also provide the body with important antioxidants. Among these antioxidants, lycopene is abundant in red fruits and vegetables, some of which are crowd favorites.
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What are the benefits of lycopene consumption?
Substantial evidence indicates that lycopene, a carotenoid without provitamin A activity found in high concentrations in a small group of plant foods, has significant antioxidant potential in vitro and may play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease as well as prostrate cancer in individuals. Lycopene is believed to possess a cholesterol synthesis-inhibiting effect and might enhance LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol”, degradation. Research studies evaluating its effectiveness in this area can simply answer the question of whether lycopene can help to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Lycopene Intake & Absorption
Lycopene is a� fat-soluble phytonutrient in the carotenoid family which has received attention because of its potential role in preventing cardiovascular diseases. Although similar in construction to the more studied ?-carotene, lycopene doesn’t have provitamin A activity. Carotenoids and their many conjugated double bonds turns them into potentially strong antioxidants, and lycopene is no exception.
Sources include tomatoes, guava, pink grapefruit, watermelon, apricots and papaya in high concentrations. Tomato products, including ketchup, tomato juice, and pizza sauce, are the richest sources of lycopene in the United States diet, accounting for 80 percent of the lycopene consumption of Americans. Tomatoes also contain a significant amount of ?-carotene. In fact, they are the fourth-leading contributor to provitamin A and vitamin A intake in the American diet. Tomatoes are rich in potassium and folate, and there is nearly 3 times as much vitamin C as lycopene in a tomato. In studies of health benefits of tomatoes, an individual has to consider that they are also rich in nutrients aside from lycopene.
Absorption of lycopene’s mechanism isn’t fully understood. Studies have demonstrated that lycopene from tomato products appears in the blood flow when a source of fat is included with the meal and if the tomato is warmed. Plasma lycopene concentrations increased only marginally in a group receiving 180 g tomato juice (containing 12 mg lycopene) per day for 6 weeks. This finding has been supported by research studies demonstrating negligible or only slight increases in plasma lycopene concentrations after consumption of various levels of unheated tomato juice. In one study, nevertheless, when tomato juice was absorbed, serum levels of lycopene increased, with an increase within 24 to 48 hours following ingestion. Gartner et al discovered that concentrations of lycopene from the chylomicrons of 5 human subjects increased 3 times as much when they consumed tomato paste as when they consumed raw tomatoes. Thus, the availability and absorption of lycopene depend on the processing and treatment of the food that contains the carotenoid and on the fat content of the meal in which lycopene is consumed.
Lycopene and Cardiovascular Disease
Several studies examined the connection between dietary intake of antioxidants and lipid peroxidation to attempt to determine which antioxidants may play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease. The hydrocarbon carotenoids, including ?-carotene and lycopene, are transported primarily in LDL cholesterol, which positions them in the prime place to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation.
Romanchik et al isolated LDL cholesterol samples from 5 individuals and enriched them with ?-carotene, lycopene, and lutein to determine whether this would have an impact on LDL oxidation. On copper-mediated oxidation of the LDL, the carotenoids were destroyed until substantial amounts of lipid peroxidation products were transformed, providing evidence that these pigments might be functioning as antioxidants. Although lycopene was the most quickly destroyed of the carotenoids studied, only the LDL cholesterol samples enriched with ?-carotene exhibited increased CD lag time. In another study of LDL from 11 different people, the same researchers actually found increased oxidation of LDL (as quantified by the ferrous oxidation, xylenol orange assay) on enrichment with lycopene and lutein, signaling that the connection between lycopene and LDL cholesterol oxidation is complicated.
Lycopene creates a significant reduction in serum lipids, blood pressure and oxidative stress markers. Paran et al evaluated 30 subjects with Grade I hypertension, age 40 to 65, taking no anti-hypertensive or anti-lipid drugs, treated with a tomato lycopene extract (10 mg lycopene) for 2 weeks. The SBP was reduced from 144 to 135 mmHg (9 mmHg decrease, p < 0.01) and DBP fell from 91 to 84 mmHg (7 mmHg decrease, p < 0.01). Similar results were shown by another analysis of 35 subjects with Grade I hypertension on SBP, but not DBP. Englehard gave a tomato extract to 31 subjects over 12 weeks demonstrating that a significant BP reduction of 10/4 mmHg. Patients on various anti-hypertensive agents including ACEI, CCB and diuretics experienced a significant blood pressure decrease of 5.4/3 mmHg more than 6 weeks when administered a standardized tomato extract. Other research studies haven’t shown changes in blood pressure. Lycopene and tomato infusion improve ED and reduced plasma oxidative stress.
An intriguing nonantioxidant purpose of lycopene was revealed in humans. Fuhrman et al revealed that cholesterol synthesis was decreased by the addition of lycopene to macrophage cell lines and increased LDL cholesterol receptors. Incubation with lycopene in vitro led to a 73 percent reduction in cholesterol synthesis, which has been higher than that achieved with ?-carotene. Additionally, lycopene led to a 34 percent growth in LDL degradation in the cells themselves and approximately a 110 percent increase in the removal of LDL cholesterol in the blood flow. To test their findings in humans, the investigators fed 6 men with 60 milligrams of lycopene per day for 3 weeks (approximately equivalent to the total amount of lycopene in 1 kg tomatoes). They discovered that a decrease in plasma LDL cholesterol with no significant change in HDL cholesterol. Based on the calculations of Peto et al that there is a 3:1 ratio involving the decreased risk of myocardial infarction, where a 30 percent to 40 percent risk reduction in individuals consuming this amount of lycopene. The recommended daily intake of lycopene is approximately 10 to 20 mg in supplement or food form.
Lycopene, along with other antioxidants, are fundamental towards the prevention of cardiovascular disease. When levels of LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol” are out of balance, red fruits and vegetables, rich in lycopene, can help improve overall heart health, according to research studies. The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic and spinal injuries and conditions. To discuss the subject matter, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900 .
By Dr. Alex Jimenez
Additional Topics: Wellness
Overall health and wellness are essential towards maintaining the proper mental and physical balance in the body. From eating a balanced nutrition as well as exercising and participating in physical activities, to sleeping a healthy amount of time on a regular basis, following the best health and wellness tips can ultimately help maintain overall well-being. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can go a long way towards helping people become healthy.
Even though chiropractic excels in wellness care, it is becoming more common for people to visit chiropractors to treat a variety of different kinds of pain. Because of this, chiropractic adjustments provide many benefits to people and patients who suffer from a wide variety of conditions like arthritis. In today�s article, we�ll explore how chiropractic can help patients who suffer from arthritis and give you additional suggestions on how to alleviate the pain that�s associated with it.
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Arthritis: What a Chiropractor Does
A Doctor of Chiropractic, also known as a chiropractor, is a health professional that focuses primarily on wellness care instead of sickness care. Their specialty focuses on adjusting the spine to correct misalignments that may be impinging on nerves.
Regular visits to a chiropractor can not only restore health throughout the body but also help alleviate back pain and other symptoms associated with an improperly aligned spinal column. They can also work with their patients to plan exercise routines and alterations in diet to assist management of inflammation and pain. Most insurance carriers cover visits to a chiropractor on at least some level.
What Is Arthritis?
Put simply, arthritis is inflammation in the joints which result in joint pain, stiffness and limited range of movement. There are over 200 different varieties of the ailment. While it is generally associated with age, it can also affect young people. It can strike almost any area of the body, with each region having a different cause and name. In some cases, can cause damage to soft tissues and muscles, like the heart and lungs.
Osteoarthritis, also called degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis. It results from repeated trauma to the joint and becomes more common in the elderly.
Other common forms of include:
Rheumatoid arthritis, the second most common form in which the body�s immune system attacks the joint.
Psoriatic arthritis, another autoimmune form.
Ankylosing spondylitis, also a type where the body attacks itself.
Septic arthritis, which is caused by a viral or bacterial infection of the joint.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing arthritis involves a complete and thorough examination. If a chiropractor feels the need to co-manage the case, a medical work-up by a rheumatologist may be recommended. This can include radiology (x-ray) or an MRI, urine and blood analysis and physical examinations.
It is important to have your condition properly diagnosed so you can more effectively treat the symptoms of the disease.
Chiropractors and Arthritis
The most common treatment for arthritis is medication, which can take down the inflammation and swelling and reduce pain. However, chiropractors can be of great help in managing arthritis. While medications work, it has long-term health risks such as impairing healing, damage to the stomach lining and internal bleeding.
By visiting a chiropractor you may be able to reduce your reliance upon these medications while managing your pain and symptoms naturally. A chiropractor can:
Improve your range of motion by keeping your spine in line
Improve endurance and flexibility
Increase your strength and muscle tone
Help you develop a dietary and nutritional plan to reduce inflammation naturally
In addition, chiropractors can recommend an exercise regimen that�s conducive to arthritis. According to the American Chiropractic Association, this is a vital component in managing your arthritis symptoms.
Treating the Symptoms
Please understand that chiropractors cannot cure arthritis. At this time, there is no cure for this ailment. They can, however, help to alleviate the symptoms and slow the progression of the illness. They may use spinal adjustments in conjunction with other treatments to address the disease. These options can include:
Hot and cold therapy
Ultrasound treatments
Massage
Electronic muscle stimulation
Physical rehabilitation
Magnet therapy
The Best Results
With an inflammatory disease like arthritis, the best results are achieved from attacking it at all angles. This means working with your chiropractor and rheumatologist to combine treatments, if necessary. In addition to their care, a healthy diet and active exercise regime will help move you in the right direction toward a healthier outcome.
If you or a loved one are suffering with, don�t hesitate to give us a call today.�We�re here to help in any way we can!
This article is copyrighted by Blogging Chiros LLC for its Doctor of Chiropractic members and may not be copied or duplicated in any manner including printed or electronic media, regardless of whether for a fee or gratis without the prior written permission of Blogging Chiros, LLC.
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