News
Fish-rich diet may decrease risk of heart disease in women
27 December 2011
According to a new Danish study, increased intakes of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help protect young women from heart disease.
13 October 2012
Men with increased intakes of the antioxidant lycopene found in tomatoes might have a lower risk of suffering a stroke, says a new study from Finland.
The observational study measured the blood concentrations of lycopene, beta-carotene and vitamins A and E in 1,031 men ages 46 to 65 and documented cases of stroke over a period 12 years (1). The study results showed that, after accounting for major stroke risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes, participants with the highest lycopene levels had a 55 percent lower risk of suffering a stroke compared to those with the lowest levels. The other nutrients were not linked to the participants’ stroke risk.
The researchers commented that it is plausible that lycopene could have a direct effect on stroke risk, as it is a potent antioxidant which helps the body to protect cells from oxidative damage that can ultimately lead to disease. Lab research also suggests that lycopene helps fight inflammation and blood clots.
Lycopene is a carotenoid that gives a reddish hue to foods like tomatoes, red peppers, watermelon and papaya. For most people, tomatoes and tomato products are by far the biggest source of lycopene in the diet. As the current study lacks some critical information, such as the men's overall diet habits, it does not prove that tomatoes and ketchup can cut anyone's stroke risk, the scientists noted.
27 December 2011
According to a new Danish study, increased intakes of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help protect young women from heart disease.
1 April 2016
Marine omega-3 fatty acids are important for the developing brain, adult brain health and protection against cognitive decline in the elderly. DHA is an important structural part of the nervous tissue whilst circulating EPA levels appear to be important in prevention of the onset of depression. This review will examine the current evidence with regard to efficacy.
1 October 2013
Inflammation is a normal reaction of the body intended to remove harmful internal or external irritants and create conditions conducive to repair processes. An inflammatory reaction is a complex process involving numerous elements of the immune system. An excessive immune response or an immune system that attacks the body’s own structures (e.g. certain cells or tissues) can lead to persistent (chronic) inflammation. In this case, the immune system not only attacks pathogenic factors but also damages healthy structures, thus forming the basis for many chronic diseases. In recent years the incidence of chronic inflammatory diseases has greatly increased, especially in industrialized countries. A major cause of this increase, apart from genetic factors, is an unhealthy lifestyle, in particular an unbalanced diet and lack of exercise. A diet with plenty of micronutrients, some of which possess anti-inflammatory properties, can help prevent the development of chronic inflammatory diseases.