Monday, November 9, 2009

Perfectly Poached Eggs

Perfectly Poached Eggs

Eggs are probably the most versatile ingredient around. They’re a complete protein source and can act as a stand-alone meal, whether for a quick breakfast, or a lazy dinner. During busy workdays, I can still feel good about my food choices by whipping up an easy egg omelet with vegetables and brown rice on the side, rather than resorting to some take-out for dinner. Eggs emulsify foods like salad dressings and mayonnaise, and bind mixtures such as those you would make for meatballs. They set custards and are indispensable in baking. They’re not only culinary, but nutritional superstars.

One egg has only 70 calories fit into its perfect little protein package. It contains 4.5 grams of fat, 6 grams of protein, and about 200 milligrams of cholesterol. Many have shunned eggs in the past due to its cholesterol content, which is located in the yolk, but intake of saturated and trans fats in the diet can actually raise your blood cholesterol more than the dietary cholesterol located in the egg yolk itself. A systematic review in the Archives of Internal Medicine found inconsistent evidence linking egg consumption to coronary heart disease. An egg a day should be fine, as the American Heart Association recommends eating less than 300milligrams of cholesterol daily.

And the egg has more benefits that can’t be ignored. It is a good source of lutein and zeaxanthin, two types of carotenoids that lend themselves to eye health, like protecting against age-related macular degeneration, night blindness, and cataracts. Eggs are also one of the few food sources of vitamins D and K.

Eggs contain all nine essential amino acids that make up a complete protein. Along with other essential nutrients found in the egg, choline is a vital component in the structure of your cell membranes. Choline is a heavy hitter that serves many functions, including brain development, muscle control, and other cognitive processes like learning and memory. Like folate (which is also present in the egg), choline is needed to prevent neural tube defects during pregnancy. So all you to-be mommies out there, get crackin!

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Test your nutrition IQ: Foods that cause macular degeneration

By Sam McManis
Macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss among older Americans, can be regulated by diet, according to Tufts University research published in the journal Ophthalmology.

Take our quiz about foods that can raise or lower the incidence of age-related macular degeneration, or AMD.

1. Foods high on the glycemic-index scale can contribute to AMD. Which food rates the highest in glycemic index?

a) Baguette

b) Ice cream

c) Parsnips

2. Which fruit rates the lowest on the glycemic index?

a) Cherries

b) Bananas

c) Pineapple

3. Among other items, Tufts researchers recommend eating which food often to change blood sugar more gradually?

a) Baked potato

b) Lentils

c) Puffed wheat cereal

4. True or false: The nutrient beta carotene significantly affected AMD risk in the study.

5. What is one of the main non-dietary risk factors for AMD, according to Tufts:

a) Smoking

b) Gender

c) Both

ANSWERS:
1: c (parsnips: 97; baguette: 95; ice cream: 61);
2: a (cherries: 22; banana: 54; pineapple: 66);
3: b;
4: false;
5: c

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Thursday, October 22, 2009

The Superfruit that Lowers Bad Cholesterol and Promotes Good Health

Considered to be the most popular berry fruit in the world, the over 600 varieties of strawberries have been enjoyed throughout the world for their delicious flavor and countless uses. As they pertain to health, strawberries are increasingly being recognized by modern medicine as a "superfruit". Loaded with anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer compounds, strawberries are among the most nutritionally-dense fruits available. Among their many attributes are their powerfully high antioxidant levels and their abundance of flavonoids, polyphenols, phytonutrients, and fiber.

Strawberry phenols have the ability to decrease the activity of the cyclo-oxygenase, or COX enzyme whose hyperactivity causes inflammation. Many people take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or ibuprofen for pain. These drugs are synthetically designed to be COX-inhibitors; however, strawberries contain natural phenols that serve this same purpose without causing intestinal bleeding like artificial drugs do.

Among these phenols are anthocyanins, which function as potent antioxidants that protect cell structures from free radical oxygen damage, and ellagitannins, which have been found in studies to decrease rates of cancer death. The unique blend of beneficial compounds contained within strawberries has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells with no specific correlation to antioxidant levels, indicating the idiosyncratic healing composition of strawberries in their whole, complete form.

Strawberries and other fruits rich in vitamin C have been shown in studies to help prevent age-related macular degeneration (ARMD). One such study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology revealed that consuming three or more servings of fruit a day reduces the risk of developing ARMD by more than 36%.

Strawberries have been recognized as a type of "superfruit" because of their high levels of B vitamins as well as vitamin C, manganese, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin K, magnesium, copper, folate, and riboflavin. The distinct synergy of these nutrients is what constitutes the strawberry as a powerful healing food that is both delicious and plentiful year round.

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Go Orange: Amazing Pumpkin Health Benefits, Allegedly

By Jacob Katel

Fall is here, supposedly. In Miami we've still got 90-degree days, and a monster electric bill.

But at least pumpkins are here again because despite what the weather would have you believe it is in fact "that time of year."

Here are some alleged pumpkin health benefits that'll have you going for the gourd:
"Pumpkins are high in lutein and zeaxanthin, which scavenge free radicals in the lens of the eye. Therefore, they may help prevent the formation of cataracts and reduce the risk of macular degeneration." [AssociatedContent]

The distinctive bright orange color of pumpkin clearly indicates that it's an excellent source of that all-important antioxidant beta-carotene. [HowStuffWorks]
Pumpkin seeds are high in protein, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, copper and essential fatty acids. [Dietobio]
Half cup of pumpkin seeds contains 92 percent of your daily value of magnesium, a mineral in which most Americans are deficient. [HealthDiaries]
Modern folk healers believe the pumpkin to be beneficial in ridding the body of intestinal worms and also believe the ground stem of the pumpkin brewed into a tea may help ease women during their menstrual cycle. [HubPages]
A full cup of pumpkin cut into cubes has only thirty delicious calories and almost no fat. [HealthMad]
Phytosterols are compounds found in plants that have a chemical structure very similar to cholesterol, and when present in the diet in sufficient amounts, are believed to reduce blood levels of cholesterol, enhance the immune response and decrease risk of certain cancers. [WHfoods]
The alpha-carotene and beta-carotene are potent antioxidants found in pumpkin and are pro-vitamin A carotenoids, meaning the body converts them to vitamin A.

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Monday, October 5, 2009

Eye Supplements - Beyond Vitamin A

By: Rebecca Prescott

The eyes are something that many people take for granted, until disease or injury start to affect them, at which point your whole life can be seriously affected. Of course, there are some things, such as accidents and injuries, that can impact your eyes and will require specialist treatment. And in some cases there is nothing that can be done about problems that affect the eyes, such as genetic problems. However, we can look after our optical health in a number of other ways, and one important factor that can help to maintain them is nutrition.

There are a number of things that can affect the health of our eyes, some of which are out of our control and others that we can try and avoid. Some things that potentially increase the risk of eye problems include age, obesity, smoking, excessive exposure to sunlight, and even gender.

Whilst some people will be more at risk than others when it comes to poor eye health, it has been proven that nutrition does play an important role in the health of our vision, and this is therefore something that should be taken into account if you’re interested in preventing age related deterioration.

Studies have shown that certain foods contain antioxidants that can are particularly beneficial for our eyes. However, not everyone manages to eat as much fresh produce as they should to get these benefits. Often a busy lifestyle or other factors can affect the ability to eat a balanced diet. However, the wide range of vitamin supplements that are on the market today have made it easier for consumers to get their recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals, although those taking supplements should still try and eat as well as they can in order to maximize the benefits.

Some important supplements that have been identified in relation to eye health are vitamins A, C, and E. These are the antioxidant vitamins.

Vitamin A is well known for its’ role in night vision, but it is also important for preventing night blindness is pregnant women, and the health of our skin, hair and mucous membranes. It is found in animal products like liver, whole eggs, and milk.

Vitamin C helps reduce the risk of developing glaucoma, macular degeneration or cataracts. Bioflavanoids are available in combination with vitamin C in some supplements, and this is because they help the body absorb it. Vitamin E also helps reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.

Other supplements that contribute to eye health include beta carotene, lutein, zinc oxide, selenium, and cupric oxide. Lutein is not as well known as some other supplements, but it is central to eye health. It is found in the retina, eye lens, and macula. People who smoke should be careful they get enough lutein, as smoking can affect its’ levels.

Smokers should also be aware that some studies have found that some of those participating who took beta carotene supplements and smoked were at risk of several diseases. These were only small studies however, but care should still be taken.

Eye supplements are a convenient way to get these nutrients, and often contain herbal preparations like bilberry. However, you should remember that exceeding the recommended doses can lead to side effects, so be aware of the total amount of each nutrient you are taking from multivitamins and any other supplements. This is of particular importance with fat soluble vitamins like vitamin A, though if you are not taking high doses of any vitamins you should be alright.

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Friday, September 25, 2009

Eggcellent!

Eggs are rich in choline – a nutrient receiving much attention for its proposed role in brain function and memory performance. Additionally, eggs contain lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that can preserve eye health and reduce macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness [1].

Recently, the Journal of Nutrition suggested eggs be looked at as a “package deal” – they are inexpensive, contain the highest-quality protein known to man, and are loaded with vital nutrients such as folate, riboflavin, selenium, B12, and choline. For a mere 75 calories, eggs are considered nutrient-dense, low-calorie food that can enhance any menu [1].

But of course, shopping for eggs can be as tricky as every other food product in the grocery store. Free range versus organic versus this versus that. Here’s a Chicago Tribune run-down on 12 “egg terms” to increase your knowledge of eggs and egg shopping [2].

Natural: The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service defines "natural" as not containing "any artificial or synthetic ingredients, and it must be minimally processed." By this definition, almost all eggs would be considered natural.

Free range: Indicates that hens have access to the outdoors, but there are no regulations on the duration or quality of their access.

Pasteurized: Eggs that have been treated with heat to eliminate salmonella bacteria and make them safe to eat raw or undercooked.

Pasture raised: This unregulated term implies that hens are raised outdoors and moved regularly in mobile hen houses to different grassy lots on the farm. This gives them access to a variety of foods found on the ground -- bugs, grubs and other small creatures -- as well as chicken feed.

Fertile: Hens are raised in barns that also house roosters. The term is unregulated but implies that the hens are uncaged.

Food Alliance certified: According to Food Alliance, their certification requires "Healthy and humane treatment of animals, safe and fair working conditions, soil and water conservation, pest and nutrient management, protection of wildlife habitat and other agricultural concerns."

Animal Welfare Approved: Hens must be kept cage-free and allowed to perform natural behaviors such as nesting, perching and dust bathing. Outdoor access is required at all times, and forced molting and beak cutting are prohibited. Certifies mostly family farms.

American Humane Certified: Hens must be kept uncaged, but access to the outdoors is not required. Space requirements allow for natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak trimming is permitted in some cases. AHC has certified about 85 percent of cage-free eggs in the United States.

United Egg Producers Certified: This certification allows hens to be caged, does not require access to the outdoors and does not prohibit beak cutting or forced molting. It does require that hens have "access to clean water and are fed several times a day." The UEP literature suggests caged hens are safer and healthier than uncaged birds.

Certified Humane Raised and Handled: Hens are uncaged inside barns or warehouses and may have access to the outdoors. Includes space requirements for hens to perform natural behaviors. Forced molting is prohibited, but beak cutting is permitted.

USDA organic: Hens are kept uncaged in barns or warehouses, are allowed access to the outdoors and are fed an organic, vegetarian diet free of antibiotics and pesticides. Forced molting and beak cutting are permitted.

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org

Thursday, September 17, 2009

The Distinct Reward Of A Nutritional Regime That Is Rich In Items Of Produce

By Cheryl K Murphy

For many years it has been advised that we consume 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Fruits and vegetables can be very positive for our superior wellbeing like controlling weight, suppressing age-related difficulties and even the prevention of disease. It is projected that the normal American eats 3 or less servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

There is no dispute about the nutritional value ofproduce. Contrary to some other foods, the portion suggestions for produce are not attached to an monetary profit for farmers or producers but rather the advice is completely for the wellbeing advantages of the consumer.

If you incorporate more fruits and vegetables to your pattern of eating you can expect to obtain many health advantages such as anti-aging and even fat loss. Produce is especially high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that are all imperative to your excellent wellbeing.

There are also precise wellbeing advantages to be gained from a diet elevated in produce. Your cardio system will run better. A recent study from Harvard found that for every further serving of fruits and vegetables eaten day by day the risk of heart disease is diminished by as much as 4%. If you consume the suggested 5 servings the threat of stroke is lowered by as much as 26% and just including an assortment of healthy and nutritious produce to your daily eating habits can show the way to significantly lower blood pressure.

Science is furthermore continuing to realize the relationship between extraordinary items of produce ingestion and the lessening of cancers and other ailments. Antioxidants that are plentiful in items of produce have been verified to be powerful for cancer and disease prevention. Many declines with illness are caused by from undue free radicals in our bodies. Antioxidants come in and deactivate free radicals thereby preventing the injury that they can begin.

Fruits and vegetables also offers an advantage for your eyesight and vision. Countless items of produce are high in vitamin A, which is valuable for your eyesight but study has also discovered that consuming as little as cup of leafy greens every day will bring down the hazard of macular degeneration by as much as 43%.
A pattern of eating rich in fruits and vegetables will too recover your digestive wellbeing. You will have more energy and you will be healthier and stronger all around. Seek to consume more nourishing and nutritious items of produce and steer clear of very processed foods, deep fried foods, sugars and all junk foods.

Adding in more items of produce to your each day pattern of eating can only benefit your health. Aim to get in at minimum 5 or even added servings. Items of produce are liable to be low in calories and high in fiber and satiety power so the more you can devour the better.

The most important advantages of a pattern of eating excessive in items of produce for a long and healthy life. You can get more information about acai at AcaiWow.com. Plus find out more about super foods.

For more information go to www.maculardegenerationassociation.org