On the paths to health and longevity, we often find that nature’s own wisdom offers some of the most effective remedies. Among the treasure trove of natural solutions, it’s the anti-inflammatory herbal extracts that really shine. They pack a powerful punch against inflammation, the quiet culprit behind many chronic diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory Herbal Extracts

This guide will take you through the wonders of these herbals. We will discuss how they work, the benefits they bring, and how you can seamlessly weave them into your daily wellness routine.

The Silent Threat of Inflammation

To appreciate the significance of anti-inflammatory herbal extracts, it’s crucial to understand inflammation’s dual nature. On one hand, acute inflammation is a vital immune response that helps the body heal from injury and fight off infections. On the other, chronic inflammation is a stealthy, prolonged response that can insidiously undermine health. It can contribute to diseases like arthritis, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and even cancer.

Nature’s Answer to Inflammation

Anti-inflammatory herbal extracts offer a holistic approach to mitigating the adverse effects of chronic inflammation. These extracts are rich in a variety of compounds that team up to tackle inflammation in several ways.

They can block enzymes that cause inflammation, neutralize harmful free radicals, and dial down the production of substances in the body that ramp up inflammation. Its multi-pronged strategies calm inflammation and protect your body from the damage it can cause.

Herbal extracts stand apart from synthetic drugs by offering a gentler, more natural approach to healing. They focus on restoring balance and promoting wellness without the harsh side effects often associated with pharmaceuticals. It’s like giving your body the tools it needs to heal itself. It taps into the inherent wisdom of nature for a holistic path to health.

Related reading: Herbal Extracts: Nature’s Defense against Free Radicals

Key Herbal Extract Players

Several herbs have been recognized for their anti-inflammatory properties. Each of them brings its unique benefits to the table:

– Turmeric (Curcuma longa):

The golden spice turmeric is notable for its active ingredient, curcumin, which boasts potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin works by blocking NF-kB. This molecule travels into the nuclei of cells and triggers inflammation. Curcumin’s efficacy in reducing symptoms of arthritis and other inflammatory conditions is well-documented.

Curcumin Powder

– Ginger (Zingiber officinale):

Ginger is not just a flavorful kitchen staple but also a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. Its active components, such as gingerols, have been shown to suppress prostaglandin synthesis, a process closely linked to inflammation. Ginger is especially beneficial in alleviating gastrointestinal inflammation and reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Ginger Extract Powder

– Boswellia (Boswellia serrata):

Often referred to as Indian frankincense, Boswellia contains boswellic acids. Such acids have been shown to prevent the formation of leukotrienes, compounds that cause inflammation. It is particularly effective in treating inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

– Green Tea (Camellia sinensis):

Rich in polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), green tea stands out for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. EGCG has been found to inhibit the expression of inflammatory cytokines and is linked to a lower risk of several chronic diseases.

– Willow Bark (Salix alba):

Known as nature’s aspirin, willow bark contains salicin. The human body converts it into salicylic acid which offers pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits. It is particularly effective in treating headaches, back pain, and symptoms of osteoarthritis.

The Science Behind the Remedies

The efficacy of anti-inflammatory herbal extracts is not just anecdotal. Numerous studies and clinical trials support their health benefits.

• For example, research has shown that turmeric and its compounds significantly reduce markers of inflammation in the body. They have become comparable to pharmaceutical drugs in some cases but without the side effects.
• Similarly, clinical trials on ginger have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing pain and stiffness in osteoarthritis patients.

Integrating Herbal Extracts into Your Life

Incorporating anti-inflammatory herbal extracts into your daily routine can be simple and enjoyable. These extracts are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, teas, and tinctures. These supplements allow for flexibility in how you consume them.

However, it’s crucial to source high-quality, pure extracts to ensure their efficacy and safety. Additionally, consider the following tips:

• Start with a single herb: If you’re new to herbal supplements, begin with one herb to monitor how your body responds.
• Consult a healthcare professional: Especially important if you’re taking medication or have existing health conditions, as some herbs can interact with medications.
• Listen to your body: Pay attention to how your body reacts and adjust your intake accordingly. What works for one person may not work for another.

Safety and Considerations

While herbal extracts offer a natural way to combat inflammation, they are not without considerations. The potency of herbs means they can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone, particularly pregnant or breastfeeding women. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating new herbal supplements into your regimen.

The Path Forward

The power of anti-inflammatory herbal extracts lies in their ability to offer a natural, holistic approach to managing inflammation and promoting overall health. As interest in natural health solutions continues to grow, so does the body of research supporting these ancient remedies. By integrating these herbs into our lives, we harness nature’s power to heal and protect our bodies and open the door to a healthier, more vibrant life.

Conclusion

Anti-inflammatory herbal extracts are a cornerstone in the pursuit of natural health and wellness. They provide a holistic approach to combating inflammation and promoting overall well-being. By embracing these gifts from nature, we can take proactive steps towards reducing inflammation and enhancing our quality of life. The best medicine comes from the earth itself.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) serves as a worldwide supplier of a range of specialty chemicals. With 18 years of experience specializing in herbal extracts, SCC is your go-to source for quality materials. Feel free to reach out with any inquiries.

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In the quest for health and longevity, the role of herbal extracts in combating free radicals has garnered significant attention. These naturally occurring molecules, while essential to metabolic processes, can cause oxidative stress when imbalanced. They can lead to cellular damage and a host of chronic diseases. Herbal extracts, rich in antioxidants, offer a potent shield against these harmful agents.

Herbal Extracts

This comprehensive exploration delves into the science behind herbal extracts’ protective mechanisms, their most effective forms, and the profound impact they can have on our well-being.

Understanding Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress

Free radicals are unstable atoms or molecules that contain unpaired electrons. So, they are highly reactive with other cellular structures such as DNA, proteins, and cell membranes. While the body’s metabolic processes naturally produce them, environmental factors like pollution, radiation, and tobacco smoke can significantly increase their levels.

Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Such stress leads to cell and tissue damage, which is a precursor to aging and diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.

The Protectors: Herbal Extracts and Their Antioxidant Power

Plants produce an array of phytochemicals to protect themselves against environmental stressors. When extracted and consumed, these phytochemicals—particularly antioxidants—can confer similar protective benefits to humans.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating one of their electrons, thus stabilizing the molecule without becoming destabilized themselves. This section highlights several key herbal extracts known for their potent antioxidant capabilities.

–Green Tea Extract

It comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. Green tea extract is abundant in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant. Studies have shown that EGCG can reduce oxidative stress, lower the risk of chronic diseases, and even aid in weight management.

–Turmeric Extract (Curcumin)

Curcumin is the vibrant yellow compound found in turmeric. It has been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It not only scavenges different forms of free radicals but also boosts the body’s own antioxidant enzymes. This extract offers protection against a multitude of diseases.

–Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract is rich in oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs). Such compounds are known for their strong antioxidant activity. OPCs have been shown to improve cardiovascular health, support brain function, and enhance skin health by protecting against oxidative damage.

Grape Seed Extract

–Ginkgo Biloba Extract

This ancient herb contains potent flavonoids and terpenoids. These antioxidants can help improve blood circulation and cognitive function by minimizing oxidative stress, particularly within the nervous system.

–Milk Thistle Extract (Silymarin)

Silymarin is extracted from milk thistle seeds. It is particularly effective in protecting the liver from toxins and oxidative damage, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Milk Thistle Extract

Mechanisms of Herbal Extracts against Free Radicals

Herbal extracts have been widely recognized for their antioxidant properties. These features play a crucial role in protecting the body against the damaging effects of free radicals.

 1. Direct Scavenging of Free Radicals

Herbal extracts contain a variety of compounds, such as phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids. They can directly interact with free radicals.

These interactions neutralize free radicals by donating electrons or hydrogen atoms, effectively stabilizing the reactive molecules and preventing them from causing cellular damage. This direct scavenging activity is the most straightforward mechanism by which herbal extracts counteract oxidative stress.

 2. Chelation of Metal Ions

Certain herbal extracts have the ability to bind to metal ions, such as iron and copper, which can catalyze the production of highly reactive hydroxyl radicals through the Fenton reaction. By chelating these metal ions, herbal extracts prevent the catalysis of free radical formation, thereby reducing oxidative stress.

 3. Activation of Antioxidant Enzymes

Herbal extracts can also enhance the body’s endogenous antioxidant defenses by upregulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes.

These enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), play critical roles in detoxifying reactive oxygen species (ROS) and maintaining cellular redox balance. Certain herbal compounds have been shown to activate the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway, which leads to the increased expression of these protective enzymes.

 4. Inhibition of Oxidative Enzymes

Some herbal extracts inhibit the activity of enzymes that contribute to the production of free radicals. For example, they can inhibit xanthine oxidase, an enzyme involved in the generation of superoxide radicals, or cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, which are involved in the inflammatory process and can indirectly increase oxidative stress.

 5. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation is closely linked to oxidative stress. Herbal extracts can modulate the body’s inflammatory response by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines or blocking the activity of enzymes that contribute to inflammation. Therefore, they indirectly reduce the production of free radicals associated with inflammatory processes.

Clinical Applications and the Future of Herbal Antioxidants

The therapeutic potential of herbal extracts in managing and preventing diseases related to oxidative stress is vast. Ongoing research aims to further elucidate their mechanisms, optimize extraction methods, and integrate them into clinical practices. The future of herbal antioxidants looks promising. Potential applications range from dietary supplements to functional foods and even pharmacological agents.

Incorporating Herbal Extracts into Daily Life

Incorporating herbal extracts into one’s diet can be an effective strategy for enhancing antioxidant intake. Whether through supplements, teas, or fortified foods, the key is consistency and variety to harness the broad spectrum of benefits these extracts offer.

Conclusion

Herbal extracts represent a powerful tool in fighting against free radicals. As research continues to unlock their full potential, it becomes increasingly clear that these extracts play a crucial role in promoting health, longevity, and disease prevention. Embracing herbal extracts as part of a holistic approach to wellness can help mitigate the impact of oxidative stress and pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant life.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) is a global provider of phytochemicals, pharmaceutical intermediates, catalysts, lab equipment, and various specialty chemicals. SCC possesses 18 years of expertise in herbal extracts. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.

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When it comes to achieving radiant, youthful skin, the beauty industry is awash with a myriad of products and ingredients. Amidst the sea of options, two key players have emerged as powerhouses in the skincare world: Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid. These two ingredients, when combined, create a dynamic duo that can transform your complexion, leaving you with a radiant and hydrated glow. This article is going to explore their benefits and applications. Hope that you can have a better understanding.

The Role of Vitamin C: Shielding Your Skin

Let’s start by learning about vitamin C. It is also known as ascorbic acid and is a potent antioxidant found naturally in various fruits and vegetables. While it’s an essential nutrient for overall health, its benefits for the skin are equally impressive. Here’s how Vitamin C works its magic:

Vitamin C Abundant Food

1. Neutralizing Free Radicals: The primary role of vitamin C is to neutralize free radicals, unstable molecules that can damage skin cells through a process called oxidative stress. By reducing free radical damage, vitamin C helps prevent premature aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots.
2. Boosting Collagen Production: Vitamin C plays a pivotal role in collagen synthesis as well. Collagen, a vital protein, plays a key role in maintaining skin’s firmness and youthful appearance. However, as we grow older, the natural production of collagen diminishes, resulting in skin sagging. Vitamin C stimulates collagen production, aiding in skin firmness and elasticity.
3. Brightening the Skin: It has the ability to inhibit melanin production, making it an effective skin brightener. It can help fade dark spots, pigmentation, and even out skin tone, leaving your complexion looking more radiant.

The Magic of Hyaluronic Acid: Skin’s Hydration Hero

On the other side of the spectrum, we have hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the skin. Its primary role is to maintain moisture levels. Here’s why hyaluronic acid is crucial for skin health:

Hyaluronic Acid for Hydration

1. Intense Hydration: Hyaluronic acid has an incredible ability to retain water. It possesses the remarkable ability to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it an outstanding hydrating agent. When applied topically, it attracts and binds moisture to the skin, keeping it plump and well-hydrated.
2. Smoothing Fine Lines: Dehydrated skin often accentuates fine lines and wrinkles. By keeping the skin adequately moisturized, HA helps diminish the appearance of these age-related concerns.
3. Enhancing Skin Barrier: A well-hydrated skin barrier is essential for preventing moisture loss and protecting against external aggressors. HA fortifies the skin’s barrier, making it more resilient.

The Power of Combining Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

Now, imagine the benefits of Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid working together in your skincare routine. It’s a perfect pairing in the world of skincare. Their synergy can transform your skin.

1. Enhanced Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid together create a shield against environmental stressors. While the former fights free radicals, the latter locks in moisture, preventing skin from drying out due to external aggressors.
2. Intense Hydration with Brightening Effect: HA ensures that your skin stays optimally hydrated, enhancing the effectiveness of VC in brightening the complexion. Together, they reduce the appearance of dullness and uneven skin tone.
3. Youthful, Plump Skin: Vitamin C’s collagen-boosting properties complement hyaluronic acid’s ability to keep the skin plump and dewy. This combination results in a more youthful-looking complexion with improved firmness.

Studies and Researches Supporting Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid

All these advantages have been supported, including antioxidant protection, collagen production, wrinkle reduction, and skin hydration. Here are some studies and research findings that support the use of vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in skincare:

1. Antioxidant Benefits of Vitamin C:

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2017) found that topical application of vitamin C can help protect the skin against UV-induced damage and photodamage. It acts as an antioxidant and reduces the formation of free radicals. [1]

2. Collagen Production and Wrinkle Reduction:

Research published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2001) demonstrated that vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen synthesis. Collagen is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. [2]

3. Skin Hydration with Hyaluronic Acid:

A study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2014) highlighted the ability of hyaluronic acid to retain water and provide substantial skin hydration, leading to improved skin texture and reduced dryness. [3]

4. Combined Benefits:

A study in the Dermatologic Surgery journal (2005) showed that combining vitamin C and hyaluronic acid in a skincare regimen can enhance overall skin quality, including improvements in skin hydration, firmness, and the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. [4]

However, it’s important to note that individual results may vary, and consistent use of these ingredients in a skincare routine is typically required to see significant improvements in the skin. Please seek guidance from a dermatologist or skincare professional for personalized recommendations.

Conclusion

In the realm of skincare, the partnership between Vitamin C and Hyaluronic Acid is a true game-changer. Their individual prowess in protecting, hydrating, and rejuvenating the skin is impressive, but when combined, they create a harmonious symphony of benefits. With Vitamin C’s potent antioxidant protection and collagen-boosting abilities, coupled with Hyaluronic Acid’s exceptional hydration prowess, your skin is in for a treat. Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) is a reliable hyaluronic acid supplier of medical grade, cosmetic grade, and food grade hyaluronic acid. Send us an inquiry if you are interested.

Reference:

[1] Al-Niaimi F, Chiang NYZ. Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017 Jul;10(7):14-17. Epub 2017 Jul 1. PMID: 29104718; PMCID: PMC5605218.

[2] Betty V. Nusgens, Alain C. Colige, Charles A. Lambert, Charles M. Lapière, Philippe Humbert, André Rougier, Marek Haftek, Alain Richard, Pierre Creidi, Topically Applied Vitamin C Enhances the mRNA Level of Collagens I and III, Their Processing Enzymes and Tissue Inhibitor of Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 in the Human Dermis11Part of this work was presented in poster form at the American Academy of Dermatology, San Francisco, CA, March 10–15, 2000., Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Volume 116, Issue 6, 2001, https://doi.org/10.1046/j.0022-202x.2001.01362.x.

[3] Jegasothy SM, Zabolotniaia V, Bielfeldt S. Efficacy of a New Topical Nano-hyaluronic Acid in Humans. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2014 Mar;7(3):27-9. PMID: 24688623; PMCID: PMC3970829.

[4] Farris PK. 2005, ‘Topical vitamin C: a useful agent for treating photoaging and other dermatologic conditions.’ Dermatologic Surgery, vol 31 no. 7 pt2 pp. 814–818

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Hyaluronic acid (HA) has gained significant attention in the beauty industry for its remarkable hydrating and anti-aging properties. It has become a staple ingredient in skincare products, known for its ability to plump and moisturize the skin. However, the benefits of HA extend far beyond the realm of beauty. This versatile substance also plays a vital role in joint health and overall well-being. Let’s dive into the versatility of hyaluronic acid and discover its diverse applications.

Understanding Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a type of carbohydrate molecule that is naturally produced by the body. It is found in various tissues and fluids, such as the skin, joints, and eyes. HA is known for its ability to retain moisture, which helps to keep tissues well-lubricated and moisturized. It has various applications in the medical, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries.

Chemical Structure of HA

Applications of Hyaluronic Acid

1.    The Beauty of Hyaluronic Acid

In the realm of beauty, hyaluronic acid has gained a reputation as a holy grail ingredient. Its unique ability to retain moisture makes it a powerful hydrator for the skin. HA molecules can hold up to 1,000 times their weight in water, helping to replenish and maintain optimal hydration levels. By attracting and locking in moisture, it plumps the skin, smooths out fine lines and wrinkles, and enhances overall radiance. Therefore, HA becomes a key ingredient in serums, moisturizers, and facial masks, providing a boost of hydration and promoting a youthful complexion.

2.    Dermal Fillers and Facial Contouring

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are another HA product in the field of cosmetics. They are used to restore lost volume, enhance facial contours, and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and folds. By injecting them beneath the skin’s surface, a skilled professional can sculpt and rejuvenate the face, providing natural-looking results. Dermal fillers offer a non-surgical solution for those seeking facial rejuvenation and enhancement. So, most individuals can resume their regular activities immediately after the treatment.

3.    Joint Health and Hyaluronic Acid

Beyond its beauty benefits, hyaluronic acid plays a critical role in maintaining healthy joints. It is naturally present in the synovial fluid that lubricates and cushions the joints. HA acts as a shock absorber, reducing friction and ensuring smooth movement. With age or certain medical conditions, its production in the joints may decrease, leading to joint stiffness, discomfort, and limited mobility. In these cases, HA injections can be administered directly into the affected joint to restore lubrication, reduce pain, and improve joint function. These injections have become a popular treatment option for individuals with conditions such as osteoarthritis.

4.    Eye Health and Lubrication

Medical-grade HA is also used in ophthalmology for its lubricating properties in the form of eye drops. These eye drops help alleviate symptoms of dry eyes by providing a protective and moisturizing layer on the surface of the eyes. The hyaluronic acid forms a barrier that prevents moisture loss, reduces friction, and soothes dryness, thereby improving overall eye comfort and health.

5.    Wound Healing and Tissue Repair

Hyaluronic acid’s versatile nature extends to the realm of wound healing and tissue repair. HA plays a crucial role in the body’s natural healing processes. It promotes cell migration, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), which are essential for efficient wound healing. By providing a favorable environment for tissue regeneration, this natural substance supports the body’s ability to heal wounds, reduce scarring, and promote overall tissue repair.

Conclusion

Hyaluronic acid is undoubtedly a versatile and multi-faceted compound. Its hydrating and anti-aging properties make it a go-to ingredient in the beauty industry, helping individuals achieve plump and youthful skin. Moreover, this acid plays a vital role in joint health, wound healing, eye lubrication, and facial contouring. Its ability to provide hydration, lubrication, and tissue repair makes it a valuable asset in various medical and cosmetic applications. Whether you’re seeking a beauty boost or joint relief, hyaluronic acid proves to be an exceptional ally in promoting overall well-being.

Stanford Chemicals Company (SCC) offers quality hyaluronic acid powder for skin care and joint health applications. Both cosmetic-grade HA and medical-grade HA are available. You can check our website for more information. Hope that you can find the perfect HA products for your business or research.

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Generally, people find it easy to have processed food, which usually comes in packages in cans, boxes, or bags. But the most miserable thing is that they are still unaware of the repercussion of having such chemical ingredients. These foods have gone through various unhealthy procedures and are processed extensively to be edible. Thus nothing on the plant is more hazardous than what it does.

The consequences are sometimes pretty much dangerous like some serious lifelong diseases like heart problems, diabetes, or sometimes other serious health issues. The attractive, nicely packaged food actually contains artificial flavorings, chemical components, and often synthetic additives.

Through seeing the ingredient list one can easily make out whether the food is processed. Mostly you can find processed food in the center aisles of the grocery store and it contains ingredients that you may not be able to recognize. People generally roam around the section, leaving behind the unprocessed natural food segment, which is mostly found on the periphery of the grocery store consisting of fruits, vegetables, meat, eggs, and some other single-ingredient foods.

If you pay a little more attention to the subject you can easily make out that processed foods are often prepared with several types of vegetable oils and fats, like corn oil, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, canola oil, or saturated fats. The oils and fats are the main reasons for all the health issues. Instead of that, you can go for any vegetable oil, olive oil, Wheat Germ Oil, nut oil, or avocado oil.

Another technique to make people fool is to offer them a variety of low-fat products like low-fat breakfast cereals, low-fat ice cream, low-fat cookies, and low-fat frozen entrees. While, in fact, the so-called low-fat products have to go through extensive processing methods, which remove natural fat and spoil all their dietary value as well. However, the rich flavor of real, unprocessed food is always a more satisfying and healthy option to be followed.

Sweetening agents like honey and maple syrup have been used for centuries in our diet. But the modern food industry makes use of brown sugar, table sugar as well as high-fructose corn syrup as processed ingredients.

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Industrial food companies derive high-profit products from these commodity crops, which are generally high in calories but low in dietary value. The ultra-processed food is good for health and mental development, for instance, micronutrients, lack fiber, and healthful plant substances called phytochemicals which protect you against diabetes and heart disease. For example, a 10-ounce, 90-calorie portion of strawberries consists of 5 grams of fiber, plentiful vitamins, and minerals, along with dozens of phytochemicals, at the same time a 1-ounce portion of Fruit Gushers also contains 90 calories, however virtually none of the fruit benefits.

Foods of the less-processed type generally have more filling than highly processed industrial food. No one can deny that fresh apples have an abundance of fiber and nutrients than apple sauce. So it has more dietary value than anything else. Apart from that the added sugar and other additive artificial sweeteners increase the number of calories and hazardous effects without inevitably making the applesauce any more filling. If you consume apple juice, it even has almost all of the fiber and nutrients stripped out and has very less nutritional value.

The most supposedly healthy replacement foods are hardly really healthier than the foods they replace. So it is better to go with natural food instead of processed food. Efforts are made in 2006, to remove sugary sodas from school vending machines by major beverage makers.

So make sure that a health claim on the label doesn’t essentially make food healthy. Health claims which say zero trans fats or contain whole wheat actually may form the false impression that a product is healthy when in reality it’s not. So this type of food will not go to benefit your kid’s health. May the food consists of all the salt and sugar or saturated fat, but still lacks fiber and other nutrients.

Therefore, if you’re eating packaged food, such as bread, cereal, or pasta, confirm the ingredient list to make sure that the first ingredient is, in fact, a whole grain. Because the first ingredient listed on a package is the chief ingredient, the below-listed ingredients are included in smaller amounts.

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The presence of vitamin A in the brain is called retinoic acid, which is however critical to brain development. Vitamin A plays an important role in cognitive function. Vitamin A is lacking in most mothers in our fat-phobic society, which gives birth to children with abnormal behavior patterns later in life.

Some recent research studies from the U.K. show that the deficiency of vitamin D3 comes with an increased risk of depression and panic. However, symptoms like apathy and lack of insight, hallucinations, delusions, and severe, chronic, and serious brain disorders are found in persons lacking vitamin D3.

Vitamin D contributes to the production of serotonin, widely known as the molecule of willpower, as well as delayed gratification. A lessened serotonin state can lead to an inability to create and execute well-formed plans.

Vitamin K2 contributes to biological activities involving mostly cellular functions such as cell growth, and apoptosis survival. It is a significant lipid present in high concentrations in brain cell membranes for better function of the nervous system. The healthy food value of high-vitamin butter oil, which is rich in vitamin K2 can cure many brain diseases.

However, all these vitamins components you can find, are well consumed at very high levels in primitive diets. In modern industrial food, you won’t get any healthy food value. According to the disastrous dietary advice of today’s age, major people avoid the dietary sources of these crucial nutrients like butter, egg yolks, organ meats, goose, meat fats, chicken liver, fish-eggs, cod liver oil, oily fish, as well as some fermented foods like sauerkraut.

It is perfectly said that industrially processed foods are not optimal for good health. They often contain genetically modified (GM) ingredients and artificial synthetic additives and toxins. The food certainly has very little nutritional value.

Therefore the key to staying healthy is to plan your meals. So, if you fail to plan you are planning to fail.

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Some dieticians and policymakers are skeptical that further reduction may cause more harm than good with Dr. Carrie Ruxton insisting that salt has a vital role to play in many processed foods like preserving meat which can be harmful to public health if the amount is reduced further.

Ruxton further says that the industry has done its best to reduce the salt intake as targeted with their hands being tied as there is no other option remaining for them to reduce the amount of salt in processed foods without compromising on the quality.

The State of Affairs

The UK has the highest obesity rates in Europe although their sugar at 11% and total fat intake at 35% are in accordance with the guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and European Food Standards Association (EFSA). For salt and saturated fats, the story is however different as the average UK consumer eats 50% more salt than the 5g a day ideally recommended by WHO. Saturated fats are consumed in excess of 4% more than the 11% that is recommended daily.

The WHO has lowered the bar further and set a 5% sugar reduction in processed food with EFSA disagreeing as it states there is no proof to suggest the reduction is warranted. Dr. Ruxton lends her opinion by saying that it is impossible to reach the set target and adds that drinking a glass of fruit juice is enough to put one above the set limit.

The Focus Should Shift

Carbohydrates are absorbed quickly which increases sugar levels and can be counteracted by integrating more fiber in the diet which slows down the absorption level reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Healthier fats associated with the plant, nuts, hyaluronic acid, and seed oil are more beneficial to overall health as they counteract the effect of some processed foods raising your nutritional profile. Consumers should switch to such fats as eliminating fat intake entirely isn’t the solution.

People should take health matters into their hands as they are fully equipped with educational programs to make informed decisions.

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Man-made food has flooded supermarket tills and every other place it can fit. Processed flour, bread, cereals, meat, and even imitation products like fake meats and eggs are now easily available in supermarket aisles.

What exactly does one gain from processed foods though? The texture of processed foods is usually just right and appealing to most. They are easier to prepare since most processed foods require minimal work from the consumer. Cereal requires that you add milk, baby foods ask that you open the tub and feed the baby and soups require that you add hot water.

With regard to food’s nutritional content, however, the jury is still out. There are those that say processed foods have nutrients added to them so they are healthy while others say those added nutrients could even have been destroyed during the processing.

There is however no argument about God-made food. It is healthy and will sustain every person if a good balance is maintained. There are communities that have survived on fruits only because of where they lived while others have survived on meat, blood, and milk. Biblical generations ate fruits, vegetables, bread, and meat and they lived well over 100 years.

The information about meat and cholesterol and such may not be an entire lie but chances are combining the real meat with the right foods and accompaniments will go a long way in ensuring a healthier outlook.

All the vitamins remain intact with natural food unless you cook them in an unsuitable manner. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide nutrients, water, sugar, and fiber while whole cereals and pulses provide both roughage and nutrients. A mixture of both plant and animal protein could work well for those that say plant protein is not good enough.

Time and resources may indeed be saved by using processed food but the overall benefit to your body is very minimal. Others could even term processed foods as non-foods. God-made foods definitely have it all in terms of nutritional content and they meet the biggest aim for eating which is nourishment. Pleasure is also sorted since most natural foods are sweet and succulent.

The choice for the consumer is now not between foods but between priorities: time and money or a good long healthy life?

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