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Kola Nut: The Little-Known Ingredient that Supports Energy Levels

The AHA! Team — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 06:30:00 +0000

Rachael Link, MS, RD via Dr. Axe – Although few people have ever heard of the kola nut, it’s a common ingredient found in everything from soft drinks to herbal supplements. Although few people have ever heard of the kola nut, it’s a common ingredient found in everything from soft drinks to herbal supplements. Not only does this nutritious nut boast a unique flavor and aroma, but it’s also brimming with caffeine as well. In fact, each pod packs the equivalent caffeine content of about two cups of coffee nutrition, along with a host of antioxidants and other health-promoting compounds. Ready to learn more? Keep reading for everything you need to know about the kola nut, including its benefits, side effects and potential uses. What is the kola nut? The kola nut, sometimes also called the cola nut, is a type of edible nut that comes from the kola tree, which is native to West Africa. These trees can grow up to 60 feet tall and are notable for their vibrant yellow flowers and star-shaped fruits, each of which contains two to five kola nuts. These healthy nuts are high in caffeine and often used as an herbal supplement and natural food flavoring. The kola nut taste is initially very bitter, but it becomes sweeter when chewed. The nuts can be dried, giving them a much more mild flavor and nutmeg-like aroma. Keep in mind that the kola nut should not be confused with gotu kola or bitter kola, also known as Garcinia kola. Like the kola nut, these two plants are known for their medicinal properties and have been used to treat a variety of ailments. However, despite having similar names, they are unrelated and belong to completely different species of plants. Types/varieties Kola nuts are very common throughout West Africa and often consumed fresh or dried for a quick burst of caffeine. Red and white kola are the two main varieties, each of which is produced by the same plant species and sometimes even found within the same pod. These nuts also play a central role in many cultures and traditions. In a kola nut Igbo ceremony, for example, the nut is presented to welcome visitors and used to symbolize peace and goodwill. In other parts of the world, kola nut extract and kola nut powder are much more common than the fresh nut itself. These ingredients are found in many sodas, energy drinks, weight loss drugs and herbal supplements. In addition to bumping up the caffeine content of these products, the nuts also provide a unique taste and aroma. Health benefits Rich in caffeine, theobromine and disease-fighting antioxidants, the kola nut has been linked to a number of powerful benefits. Here are a few of the ways that this healthy nut could impact your health. 1. Enhances energy levels Kola nuts are high in caffeine, a compound found in coffee and tea that acts as a central nervous stimulant. Caffeine alters the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to increased energy levels, focus and alertness. What’s more, studies even have shown that moderate amounts of caffeine could also enhance endurance, brain function and mood while decreasing the perception of fatigue. 2. May promote weight loss Thanks primarily to its caffeine content, some research has suggested that the kola nut could potentially help ramp up weight loss. This is because caffeine has been shown to increase metabolism by bumping up the amount of calories burned throughout the day. It may also help decrease energy intake, which could also be beneficial for weight loss. A 2002 study published in the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders examined the effects of an herbal supplement with kola nut on weight loss. In this six-month randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 167 people were divided into taking a placebo or the herbal treatment for six months. After six months, the kola nut supplementation group had greater weight loss and lost more body fat, not to mention saw a decrease in LDL cholesterol and increase in HDL cholesterol compared to the placebo group. This led researchers to conclude that the kola nut supplement promoted weight and fat loss and improved lipid profiles. 3. Could help treat migraines Caffeine has long been used as a natural remedy to provide quick relief from headaches and migraines. It works by constricting blood vessels in the brain, which can decrease blood flow and reduce pain. According to a review in the Journal of Headache and Pain, combining caffeine with over-the-counter medications like aspirin or ibuprofen significantly improved symptoms of migraines and tension headaches compared to medications alone. Historically, kola nuts have been used to treat migraines and headaches, along with many other conditions ranging from morning sickness to indigestion. However, more scientific studies are needed to evaluate the effects of the kola nut and whether or not it can treat or prevent headaches. 4. Helps stabilize blood sugar Several recent studies have focused on the potential relationship between the kola nut and diabetes. According to a 2019 animal model published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, kola nut extract was found to have powerful anti-diabetic properties and was able to decrease blood sugar levels when administered to rats. Not only that, but treatment with kola nut extract was also able to improve the function of beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for the production of insulin. Kola nuts are also rich in caffeine, which may be beneficial for balancing blood sugar levels. One massive review in Archives of Internal Medicine even found that each cup of coffee consumed per day was associated with a 7 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. However, more research on humans is needed to confirm the anti-diabetic effects of kola nut. 5. May block growth of bacteria Some research has found that the kola nut could possess potent antibacterial properties, which could potentially help prevent the growth of harmful, disease-causing pathogens. For instance, one in vitro study conducted in Nigeria noted that red and white kola nut extracts were effective against several strains of bacteria, including Streptococcus anginosus and Proteus vulgans, both of which can cause dangerous infections in humans. Uses What foods contain kola nut, and how can you start incorporating it into your diet? Depending on where you live, you may have a hard time finding fresh kola nuts for sale at your local supermarket. Certain online retailers and specialty shops may carry them, but they are often more widely available in powder, capsule or tincture form instead. Try mixing powdered varieties into yogurt, smoothies or cereals for a kick of caffeine and antioxidants. Alternatively, you can use it to brew kola nut tea by combining one teaspoon with a cup of hot water and steeping for a few minutes to taste. Nutrition facts Kola nuts are high in caffeine, a compound that acts as a central nervous stimulant and has been linked to a long list of potential health benefits, ranging from increased energy levels to reductions in hunger and appetite. In addition to providing a hearty dose of caffeine in each serving, kola nuts are also high in theobromine, a chemical compound found in food sources like chocolate and tea leaves. Theobromine can dilate the blood vessels, stimulate the heart and act as a natural diuretic to promote urine production. Kola nuts also offer a range of antioxidants and polyphenols, including catechin, epicatechin, apigenin and naringenin. Risks and side effects According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the kola nut is generally recognized as safe for human consumption. However, although this nutritious nut can be safely consumed by most, there are a few kola nut side effects to consider as well. Because kola nuts are high in caffeine, it’s very important to keep your intake in moderation. Not only is caffeine very addictive, but consuming high amounts can cause side effects like hyperactivity, nervousness, fidgeting and sleep problems. It’s generally recommended to limit caffeine intake to fewer than 400 milligrams per day for most healthy adults. However, those who are pregnant should limit their caffeine consumption to fewer than 200 milligrams per day to avoid caffeine overdose. Caffeine is also not recommended for infants, children or adolescents, as there is limited research on its safety or potential side effects. If you have any underlying health conditions or take any medications, it’s best to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or starting any new supplements. Conclusion What is the kola nut? Native to West Africa, the kola nut is a popular ingredient derived from the fruit of the kola tree. Keep in mind that this specific type of nut should not be confused with the bitter kola nut, a plant that is also known for its medicinal properties but is unrelated to the kola nut. Although they are often enjoyed raw, dried or ground in many parts of the world, kola nuts are also a common ingredient in sodas, sports drinks, weight loss drugs and herbal supplements. Potential kola nut benefits include increased energy levels, enhanced weight loss, better blood sugar control, decreased bacterial growth, and relief from migraines and headaches. However, it is also high in caffeine and can cause adverse effects when consumed in high amounts, including hyperactivity, nervousness and fidgeting. To read the original article click here.

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Healthy Omega-3 Fats May Slow Deadly Pulmonary Fibrosis, Research Suggests

The AHA! Team — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:47:30 +0000

University of Virginia Health System via EurekAlert! – Cheap, available drug could help reduce impact of snakebites worldwide Could healthy fats found in nuts and fish slow the progression of potentially deadly lung scarring known as pulmonary fibrosis and delay the need for lung transplants? UVA pulmonary researchers looked at the association between blood-plasma levels of omega-3 fatty acids – the heart-healthy fats found in foods such as salmon and flaxseeds – and the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, as well as how long patients could go without needing a transplant. The researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 were associated with better lung function and longer transplant-free survival. While more research is needed, the researchers say their findings warrant clinical trials to determine if interventions that raise omega-3 levels could be a useful tool to improve outcomes for patients with pulmonary fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases. “We found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood, which reflects several weeks of dietary intake, were linked to better lung function and longer survival,” said researcher John Kim, MD, a pulmonary and critical care expert at UVA Health and the University of Virginia School of Medicine. “Our findings suggest omega-3 fatty acids might be a targetable risk factor in pulmonary fibrosis.” Omega-3 and Pulmonary Fibrosis Omega-3 fatty acids have already been linked to a host of health benefits. Studies have suggested, for example, that they may lower the risk of heart disease, stroke-causing blood clots, breast cancer and other cancers, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Kim and his colleagues wanted to determine if omega-3s could play a protective role in interstitial lung disease, a group of chronic lung diseases that can lead to pulmonary fibrosis. A growing problem around the world, pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible condition that leaves the lungs unable to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide properly. This can cause patients to become short of breath, weak, unable to exercise and a host of other symptoms. Smoking is a major risk factor. The researchers looked at anonymized data on patients with interstitial lung disease collected in the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Registry, as well as information volunteered by patients at UVA Health and the University of Chicago. In total, the scientists reviewed information on more than 300 people with interstitial lung disease. Most were men (pulmonary fibrosis is more common in men than women), and most suffered from “idiopathic” pulmonary fibrosis, one of the conditions that fall under the banner of interstitial lung disease. The researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood plasma were associated with better ability to exchange carbon dioxide and longer survival without the need for a lung transplant. This did not vary much regardless of smoking history or whether the patients had cardiovascular disease. “Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids were predictive of better clinical outcomes in pulmonary fibrosis,” Kim said. “These findings were consistent whether you had a history of cardiovascular disease, which suggests this may be specific to pulmonary fibrosis.” The doctors say additional research is needed to understand just how omega-3s could be having this protective benefit. They are calling for clinical trials and more mechanistic studies to obtain additional insights and determine if omega-3 fatty acid drugs or dietary changes could improve patient outcomes. “We need further research to determine if there are specific omega-3 fatty acids that may be beneficial and, if so, what are their underlying mechanisms,” Kim said. “Similar to other chronic diseases, we hope to determine whether nutrition related interventions can have a positive impact on pulmonary fibrosis.” Findings Published The researchers have published their findings in the scientific journal Chest. The research team consisted of Kim, Shwu-Fan Ma, Jennie Z. Ma, Yong Huang, Catherine A. Bonham, Justin M. Oldham, Ayodeji Adegunsoye, Mary E. Strek, Kevin R. Flaherty, Emma Strickland, Inemesit Udofia, Joshua J. Mooney, Shrestha Ghosh, Krishnarao Maddipati and Imre Noth. Noth has received personal fees from Boehringer Ingelheim, Genentech and Confo unrelated to the work. He is also seeking to patent transcriptomic prognostics in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A full list of the authors’ disclosures is included in the paper. Kim’s work was supported by a Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Scholars Award and grant K23-HL-150301 from the National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The research was also supported in part by the National Center for Research Resources, grant S10RR027926. To keep up with the latest medical research news from UVA, subscribe to the Making of Medicine blog at http://makingofmedicine.virginia.edu. Journal CHEST Journal DOI 10.1016/j.chest.2023.09.035 To read the original article click here.

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Lemon Cheesecake Recipe

The AHA! Team — Tue, 23 Jul 2024 08:42:22 +0000

Recipe by: Marina Yanay-Triner, Soul in the Raw – Lemon Cheesecake Recipe This Lemon Cheesecake is a decadent dessert that combines whole plant ingredients, including whole grains, fruits, and nuts, and is sweetened with dates, one of the healthiest whole-food sweeteners. The trick that helps make this recipe smooth and creamy is soaking the cashews for the delightful filling overnight. Interventional trials have shown that eating nuts improves artery function, and nut consumption may also improve blood sugar control, lower cholesterol, suppress inflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and feed our friendly gut flora. COURSE: Dessert, Snack DIFFICULTY: Moderate SERVINGS: 20 INGREDIENTS For the Crust: ▢1 ½ cups rolled oats ▢3 cups Medjool dates, pitted (about 36-40) ▢½ cup goji berries, dried ▢2 tablespoons lemon juice For the Filling: ▢3 cups raw cashews (soaked overnight in water) ▢2 young Thai coconuts, meat only ▢1 cup coconut water (from one of the coconuts) ▢1 ½ cups Medjool dates, pitted (about 20 dates) ▢lemon zest, to taste INSTRUCTIONS For the Crust: Place the oats in a food processor, and process until slightly broken down. Do not over-process. Add the pitted dates, goji berries, and lemon juice to the food processor, and process until all of the ingredients begin sticking together. If the mixture is not sticking together, add a few more dates and process until it is sticky. Press the mixture into a closed spring-form pan. Set the crust aside. For the Filling: Discard the soaking water and rinse the cashews. Set aside. Place the coconut meat and coconut water in a high-speed blender, and blend until well incorporated. Add the dates to the blender, and blend until smooth. Add the lemon zest and cashews, and blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy and no cashew pieces remain. Tip: Start on low, and slowly increase the mixing speed. If the blender’s motor turns off, wait a minute or two before resuming blending. Pour the filling on top of the crust, and place in the freezer for 3 to 5 hours, or until the cheesecake is hard. When ready to serve, remove the dessert from the spring-form pan, cut into slices, and enjoy. To read the original article click here.

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Summer’s Shocking Mediterranean Diet Study

AHA Publisher — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 07:00:41 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – When it comes to heart conditions, many people still believe a low-fat diet is best. They may be willing to reduce carbohydrates to achieve their weight goals, but proactively add high-fat foods? That’s a step too far. For them, the low-fat dogma taught decades ago is just too hard to shake. This summer’s shocking Mediterranean diet study may be just what they need to be convinced that fats are good for your heart. Here are the highlights of the study, what you need to know about the Mediterranean diet, and how you can best implement it for optimal health, weight, and youthfulness. Summer’s Shocking Mediterranean Diet Study This summer’s Mediterranean diet study was published in The Lancet in May 2022 (1). However, it actually started over a decade ago. In 2009, researchers took 1002 participants who had diagnosed coronary artery disease (plaque buildup in the heart’s arteries), including 827 men and 175 women, and divided them into two groups. Group 1, which consisted of 502 participants, ate a Mediterranean diet. If this is unfamiliar to you, a traditional Mediterranean diet emphasizes foods high in monounsaturated fats — particularly olive oil and nuts — along with legumes, whole grains, poultry, and fatty fish. It also encourages high amounts of fruits and vegetables. Group 2 ate a low-fat diet. This means they actively minimized high-fat foods including those considered unhealthy fats AND healthy fats. Their diets encouraged lean versions of fish and poultry, and more calories per day from carbohydrates, particularly whole grains, legumes, and potatoes. The results? For those who’ve held strongly to the low-fat recommendations of former decades, the results are shocking. Mediterranean Diet Study Results After 7 years of following their assigned diets, the participants were once again tested for coronary heart disease markers. The Mediterranean diet group had a 26% lower risk of having a heart attack or stroke, compared with people in the low-fat group. The researchers concluded that the Mediterranean diet was superior to the low-fat diet in preventing major cardiovascular events in secondary prevention. Of course, this is not the first study that clearly shows the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Study after study has shown that the Mediterranean diet is effective in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and overall mortality. Much of the research has found that it supports healthy reductions in inflammation, blood sugar, and body mass index (2, 3, 4). Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto — the Most Effective Mediterranean Diet Plan If you’re looking for a great way to take these shocking results and make a healthy Mediterranean diet your eating lifestyle, look no further than Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto! Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto is a revolutionary new approach that combines the best of the Keto Zone™ Diet with the Mediterranean Diet to support healthy weight, gut health, brain health, reduced inflammation, healthy aging, and more (5). Specifically, it encourages: A Healthy Weight: Almost all current negative health conditions are linked to, or exacerbated by, obesity (6). By utilizing healthy ketogenic diet principles, Beyond Keto promotes healthy changes and outcomes as soon as the first two weeks (7)! In addition, the Mediterranean diet component continues to support healthy weight and healthy body composition. Its focus on lean proteins, seafoods, healthy oils, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, and vegetables provide a wonderful well-balanced, satisfying dietary lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight (8). Energy, Vitality, and Mental Focus: One of the greatest benefits of the ketogenic diet is the production of ketones. Ketones are natural energizing compounds that support healthy mental focus and vitality. The Mediterranean diet also encourages great energy and vitality with the abundant variety of healthy foods. Rather than experiencing the ups and downs of a high-sugar diet, you will enjoy steady, youthful energy from delicious, colorful whole foods. Optimal Blood Sugars and Metabolism: An amazing aspect of both the ketogenic diet and the Mediterranean diet normalized blood sugars. By using both eating styles in Beyond Keto, you’ll remove harmful refined starches while focusing on healthy fats, high fiber beans, peas, lentils, vegetables, lean protein and low glycemic fruits such as berries. Part of the improvement comes from weight loss. The other part comes from a diet that supports healthy metabolism and hormones (9). Healthy Cholesterol, Triglyceride, and Blood Pressure Levels. Both the Keto Zone and Mediterranean diet aspects of Beyond Keto support heart health. First, Beyond Keto promotes a healthy weight, which can help optimize heart health. Next, by choosing the incredibly heart-healthy foods in the Mediterranean diet, you can continue to encourage great heart health In fact, the foods in the Mediterranean diet and Beyond Keto work to support heart health, healthy cholesterol, and achieve whole-body health (10). Natural Unprocessed Foods Full of Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds. One of the worst dietary habits plaguing humans worldwide is the consumption of ultra-processed foods. In fact, researchers have found that ultra-processed foods are linked to most modern health conditions and even overall risk of death (11)! Thankfully, you’ll eat healthy, high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods rather than ultra-processed ones (12). Healthy Gut Microbiota. Amazingly, Beyond Keto combines Keto Zone and Mediterranean foods to support gut health! This is great news for the millions of people who suffer from less-than-optimal gut function. In fact, studies have found the Mediterranean diet specifically improves gut microbiota and its associated metabolism functions. The diet’s prebiotics from healthy fibers along with healthy fats and polyphenols support gut health, hormone balance, and metabolism (13). All in all, Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto is a wonderful eating lifestyle full of delicious foods that will help you achieve great health and your weight goals. Bottom Line This summer, take this Mediterranean diet study, its results, and run with them. Choose a healthy lifestyle that’s full of healthy fats, vegetables, proteins and very few processed foods. It’s a great time to support your heart health, brain health, and whole-body health with Dr. Colbert’s Beyond Keto! To read the original article click here.

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Study: Eating 1 Hot Dog Can Take 36 Minutes Off Your Life

AHA Publisher — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 07:00:35 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Frequently found everywhere from hot dog stands on the street corners to summertime barbecues and picnics, hot dogs are a popular food eaten around the world, but a recent study found that eating just one beef hot dog can result in the loss of 36 minutes of healthy life. The standard hot dog is made from the trimmings of beef and pork, which are ground up and blended up into a batter along with additional ingredients, like seasonings, curing ingredients and sodium nitrite to help boost both shelf life and color. This mixture then goes into a machine that pumps them into cellulose casings that are then cooked, doused in cold water and packaged into the individual links that you find at the grocery store. While hot dogs may be a go-to favorite for many when it comes time to fire up the grill, they may not make the healthiest addition to your diet. In fact, these recent findings suggest that eating them will reduce your healthy life span. Not only are hot dogs highly processed meat and filled with potentially harmful chemicals like nitrates, nitrites and MSG, but there have also been a series of hot dog recall warnings that call into question the safety of your favorite frankfurter. Hot Dog Study Findings A new 2021 study published in the journal Nature Food analyzed over 5,800 foods in the American diet and measured their potential effects on life span. The team of researchers at the University of Michigan designed an index that calculates the net detrimental or beneficial burden in minutes of life that’s associated with a particular food. The index measured exactly how many minutes are deducted or added to life after the consumption of certain foods, like processed meats, nuts, fruits and vegetables. Using this index, researchers found that a standard beef hot dog on a bun results in healthy life loss of 27 minutes, but when ingredients such as trans fats and sodium are factored in to the equation, eating a hot dog can reduce healthy life by 36 minutes, according to study findings. Other Hidden Dangers The bone-chilling details of this recent hot dog study aren’t the only reason you should probably consider cutting back on your hot dog consumption. Besides the potential risk for contamination with bones, metal shards and foodborne illness, there are also some other negative health effects and hidden dangers of hot dogs that should be considered. 1. Made with Harmful Additives Hot dogs contain several food additives that could be detrimental to your health. Sodium nitrite, for example, is commonly added to processed meats, such as hot dogs, bacon and ham, to act as a preservative, block bacteria growth and enhance the color. Though nitrites themselves are generally not harmful, research suggests that when they are exposed to high heat or the acidity of the stomach, they can form nitrosamines, which are considered carcinogenic. Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is another additive frequently found in processed meats and used to enhance flavor. Some studies have found that MSG can be genotoxic, meaning it causes damage to our cells, while other studies have shown that chronic MSG consumption has caused kidney damage in animals. Additionally, although there is limited scientific evidence on MSG sensitivity, there are many anecdotal reports of experiencing symptoms like headaches, hives, congestion and chest pain following MSG consumption. 2. Increased Risk of Heart Disease Hot dogs tend to be high in sodium, fat and cholesterol. Excessive consumption can lead to problems like high blood pressure or elevated blood lipids, which can increase your risk of heart disease. Additionally, hot dogs are highly processed foods. Processed meats have repeatedly been linked to a higher heart disease risk. For example, a 2014 study found that eating more processed red meat led to a higher risk of heart failure. Another study in the journal Public Health Nutrition found that each serving of processed meat boosted the risk of heart disease mortality by 15 percent. 3. Increased Risk of Cancer The World Health Organization made a splash by publishing a report classifying processed meats, such as hot dogs, as “carcinogenic to humans,” right alongside harmful compounds like tobacco and asbestos. This conclusion was based on multiple studies that have established a clear linkbetween consumption of processed meats, like hot dogs, and an increased risk of certain types of cancer. For example, a 2014 study grouped participants into categories based on their processed meat consumption. Data indicates that those with the highest intake of processed meats had a 22 percent higher risk of colorectal cancer than those with the lowest intake, and each 100-gram increase in intake was linked to a 14 percent higher risk. Other studies have also found an association between high consumption of processed meat and a higher risk for breast, lung and stomach cancer. 4. Questionable Ingredients It’s not uncommon to see hot dog recalls making news headlines. In 2017, the company that makes hot dogs for popular brands like Nathan’s announceda hot dog recall due to the presence of tiny shards of metal found in the packaging. Only one year before that, another hot dog recall notice was issued because of listeria contamination. A more recent hot dog recall, however, may make you rethink your menu for your next summer barbecue. The maker of Sabrett hot dogs recalled more than 7 million pounds of hot dogs and sausages after finding that they contained bone fragments that caused minor injuries to at least one person. Once you understand the process of how hot dogs are made, it’s not hard to imagine how this type of contamination could easily occur. Throw a bunch of meat trimmings into a blender and you’re bound to get the occasional bone or shard of metal, along with who knows what else. There are other possible unsavory hidden ingredients that could be lurking in your hot dog as well. For example, if you’re browsing the hot dog aisle and see a package that reads “variety meats” or “meat by-products,” that means that it can contain other parts of the animal, including organs like the heart, liver or kidneys. To avoid these ingredients, stick to brands that contain “all meat,” such as “all turkey” or “all beef.” Additionally, hot dogs may also contain mechanically separated meat, or MSM. This is a type of meat that has been pushed through a sieve to separate the meat from the bone, creating a type of paste. While this process was made illegal in the United States in 2004 due to its association with mad cow disease, regulations now state that hot dogs can still contain up to 20 percent MSM. 5. May Cause Allergic Reaction Some people have reported allergic reactions or negative symptoms after eating hot dogs. Hot dogs typically contain a long list of ingredients, so it can be hard to pinpoint exactly which ingredients may be to blame for these symptoms. While it can sometimes be an allergy to the specific kind of meat used, it is more often an allergy resulting from one of the additives or dyes found in hot dogs. Nitrates, annatto seed, carmine and tartrazine are a few of the ingredients that are often responsible for adverse reactions after eating hot dogs. Like all foods, you should stop eating hot dogs immediately and consult your doctor if you experience any negative symptoms. What Are Hot Dogs Made Of? There are a few basic steps to making hot dogs, although some of the spices and order of steps vary according to where the dogs will be sold. That’s right, according to the people at hot dog manufacturing facilities, where the dogs are sold dictates how they taste as people in different regions have different preferences when it comes to their hot dogs. In general, the following steps explain how hot dogs are made and what they’re made of: Trimmings are raked into stainless steel cases. (Trimmings are what’s left over after cutting up steaks and pork chops.) The trimmings are next dumped into a chopper where they are chopped. Water, salt, corn syrup or sorbitol, food starch, and liquid smoke are added. All ingredients are blended in a large vat. Secret spices are now added. These vary based on where the hot dogs will be sold. Sodium nitrate is added for extending shelf life and color enhancement. The meat mixture is put through a funnel and comes out the other end looking a lot like what a meat smoothie would resemble. The dogs are stuffed into cellulose tubing and cut every 5 ¼ inches. The now closed hot dogs are baked. The cooked hot dogs are doused in cold, salty water and packaged. As the popularity of hot dogs has grown, more and more types of hot dogs have hit the shelves. In addition to the standard beef and pork franks, other types of hot dogs include turkey, chicken and cheese-filled hot dogs, as well as deep-fried corn dogs. Hot dogs are also available in reduced-fat, all meat, nitrite-free and even vegetarian varieties. Though some of these types may be preferential over the standard fat-filled, sodium-rich hot dogs, they should all still be consumed only in moderation. Vegetarian hot dogs (also cleverly dubbed “not dogs”), for example, may be lower in cholesterol and fat than regular hot dogs, but they are still highly processed and usually contain a long list of questionable ingredients, like soy and textured vegetable protein. Nutrition Facts The nutrients found in hot dogs can vary based on the brand, the type of meat used and the toppings that are added. However, most hot dogs tend to be high in sodium and cholesterol, as well as saturated fat. They also are usually low in carbohydrates and provide a moderate amount of protein, with anywhere from five to eight grams of protein per serving. For reference, one beef frankfurter (about 45 grams) contains approximately: 148 calories 2.1 grams carbohydrates 5.1 grams protein 13 grams fat 513 milligrams sodium (21 percent DV) 0.8 micrograms vitamin B12 (13 percent DV) 24 milligrams cholesterol (8 percent DV) 72 milligrams phosphorus (7 percent DV) 1.1 milligrams zinc (7 percent DV) 1.1 milligram niacin (5 percent DV) 3.7 micrograms selenium (5 percent DV) 16.2 international units vitamin D (4 percent DV) 0.1 milligram riboflavin (4 percent DV) 0.7 milligrams iron (4 percent DV) 0.1 milligram copper (4 percent DV) Note that this is the nutrient information for a beef hot dog with no toppings or bun. Adding a bun can increase the hot dog calories by about 120, while considerably increasing the carbohydrate and sodium content as well. Meanwhile, any additional toppings or condiments, like ketchup or mustard, will increase your hot dog calories even more depending on how much is used. Healthier Alternatives If you’re a big fan of hot dogs and can’t imagine hosting a barbecue without them on the menu, there are ways to make your hot dog a bit healthier. Check your local grocery stores for “all meat” and “nitrite-free” hot dog varieties. Additionally, practice label reading, and look for a brand that is lower in sodium, saturated fat and calories with minimal ingredients listed. Remember that those extra toppings can stack up fast and may even provide more calories and sodium than the actual hot dog itself. Keep toppings like cheese, pickles and sauerkraut in check, and consider swapping these for healthier choices like avocado, tomatoes, cabbage or raw onions. Then finish it off with a whole-wheat bun rather than a white bun to make sure you’re maximizing your nutrient intake. There are also hot dog alternatives available at the grocery store, like chicken sausage and turkey dogs. Of course, make sure to check the ingredients on these products also to rule out unhealthy additives. Finally, keep in mind that even the healthiest hot dog at the grocery store is still processed. Ideally, you should avoid hot dogs completely. If you do want to enjoy the occasional hot dog...

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Eating More Plant Foods May Lower Heart Disease Risk in Young Adults, Older Women

AHA Publisher — Thu, 05 Aug 2021 07:12:34 +0000

American Heart Association (AHA) via Newswise – Eating more nutritious, plant-based foods is heart-healthy at any age, according to two research studies published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association, an open access journal of the American Heart Association. In two separate studies analyzing different measures of healthy plant food consumption, researchers found that both young adults and postmenopausal women had fewer heart attacks and were less likely to develop cardiovascular disease when they ate more healthy plant foods. The American Heart Association Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations suggest an overall healthy dietary pattern that emphasizes a variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, skinless poultry and fish, nuts and legumes and non-tropical vegetable oils. It also advises limited consumption of saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, red meat, sweets and sugary drinks. One study, titled “A Plant-Centered Diet and Risk of Incident Cardiovascular Disease during Young to Middle Adulthood,” evaluated whether long-term consumption of a plant-centered diet and a shift toward a plant-centered diet starting in young adulthood are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in midlife. “Earlier research was focused on single nutrients or single foods, yet there is little data about a plant-centered diet and the long-term risk of cardiovascular disease,” said Yuni Choi, Ph.D., lead author of the young adult study and a postdoctoral researcher in the division of epidemiology and community health at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health in Minneapolis. Choi and colleagues examined diet and the occurrence of heart disease in 4,946 adults enrolled in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. Participants were 18- to 30-years-old at the time of enrollment (1985-1986) in this study and were free of cardiovascular disease at that time. Participants included 2,509 Black adults and 2,437 white adults (54.9% women overall) who were also analyzed by education level (equivalent to more than high school vs. high school or less). Participants had eight follow-up exams from 1987-88 to 2015-16 that included lab tests, physical measurements, medical histories and assessment of lifestyle factors. Unlike randomized controlled trials, participants were not instructed to eat certain things and were not told their scores on the diet measures, so the researchers could collect unbiased, long-term habitual diet data. After detailed diet history interviews, the quality of the participants diets was scored based on the A Priori Diet Quality Score (APDQS) composed of 46 food groups at years 0, 7 and 20 of the study. The food groups were classified into beneficial foods (such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts and whole grains); adverse foods (such as fried potatoes, high-fat red meat, salty snacks, pastries and soft drinks); and neutral foods (such as potatoes, refined grains, lean meats and shellfish) based on their known association with cardiovascular disease. Participants who received higher scores ate a variety of beneficial foods, while people who had lower scores ate more adverse foods. Overall, higher values correspond to a nutritionally rich, plant-centered diet. “As opposed to existing diet quality scores that are usually based on small numbers of food groups, APDQS is explicit in capturing the overall quality of diet using 46 individual food groups, describing the whole diet that the general population commonly consumes. Our scoring is very comprehensive, and it has many similarities with diets like the Dietary Guidelines for Americans Healthy Eating Index (from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service), the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet and the Mediterranean diet,“ said David E. Jacobs Jr., Ph.D., senior author of the study and Mayo Professor of Public Health in the division of epidemiology and community health at the University of Minnesota School of Public Health in Minneapolis. Researchers found: During 32 years of follow-up, 289 of the participants developed cardiovascular disease (including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, heart-related chest pain or clogged arteries anywhere in the body). People who scored in the top 20% on the long-term diet quality score (meaning they ate the most nutritionally rich plant foods and fewer adversely rated animal products) were 52% less likely to develop cardiovascular disease, after considering several factors (including age, sex, race, average caloric consumption, education, parental history of heart disease, smoking and average physical activity). In addition, between year 7 and 20 of the study when participants ages ranged from 25 to 50, those who improved their diet quality the most (eating more beneficial plant foods and fewer adversely rated animal products) were 61% less likely to develop subsequent cardiovascular disease, in comparison to the participants whose diet quality declined the most during that time. There were few vegetarians among the participants, so the study was not able to assess the possible benefits of a strict vegetarian diet, which excludes all animal products, including meat, dairy and eggs. “A nutritionally rich, plant-centered diet is beneficial for cardiovascular health. A plant-centered diet is not necessarily vegetarian,” Choi said. “People can choose among plant foods that are as close to natural as possible, not highly processed. We think that individuals can include animal products in moderation from time to time, such as non-fried poultry, non-fried fish, eggs and low-fat dairy.” Because this study is observational, it cannot prove a cause-and-effect relationship between diet and heart disease. Other co-authors are Nicole Larson, Ph.D.; Lyn M. Steffen, Ph.D.; Pamela J. Schreiner, Ph.D.; Daniel D. Gallaher, Ph.D.; Daniel A. Duprez, M.D., Ph.D.; James M. Shikany, Dr.P.H.; and Jamal S. Rana, M.D., Ph.D. The study was funded by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health; Healthy Food Healthy Lives Institute at the University of Minnesota; and the MnDrive Global Food Ventures Professional Development Program at the University of Minnesota. In another study, “Relationship Between a Plant-Based Dietary Portfolio and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: Findings from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) Prospective Cohort Study,” researchers, in collaboration with WHI investigators led by Simin Liu, M.D., Ph.D., at Brown University, evaluated whether or not diets that included a dietary portfolio of plant-based foods with U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved health claims for lowering “bad” cholesterol levels (known as the “Portfolio Diet”) were associated with fewer cardiovascular disease events in a large group of postmenopausal women. The “Portfolio Diet” includes nuts; plant protein from soy, beans or tofu; viscous soluble fiber from oats, barley, okra, eggplant, oranges, apples and berries; plant sterols from enriched foods and monounsaturated fats found in olive and canola oil and avocadoes; along with limited consumption of saturated fats and dietary cholesterol. Previously, two randomized trials demonstrated that reaching high target levels of foods included in the Portfolio Diet resulted in significant lowering of “bad” cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), more so than a traditional low-saturated-fat National Cholesterol and Education Program diet in one study and on par with taking a cholesterol-lowering statin medication in another. The study analyzed whether postmenopausal women who followed the Portfolio Diet experienced fewer heart disease events. The study included 123,330 women in the U.S. who participated in the Women’s Health Initiative, a long-term national study looking at risk factors, prevention and early detection of serious health conditions in postmenopausal women. When the women in this analysis enrolled in the study between 1993 and 1998, they were between 50-79 years old (average age of 62) and did not have cardiovascular disease. The study group was followed until 2017 (average follow-up time of 15.3 years). Researchers used self-reported food-frequency questionnaires data to score each woman on adherence to the Portfolio Diet. The researchers found: Compared to women who followed the Portfolio Diet less frequently, those with the closest alignment were 11% less likely to develop any type of cardiovascular disease, 14% less likely to develop coronary heart disease and 17% less likely to develop heart failure. There was no association between following the Portfolio Diet more closely and the occurrence of stroke or atrial fibrillation. “These results present an important opportunity, as there is still room for people to incorporate more cholesterol-lowering plant foods into their diets. With even greater adherence to the Portfolio dietary pattern, one would expect an association with even less cardiovascular events, perhaps as much as cholesterol-lowering medications. Still, an 11% reduction is clinically meaningful and would meet anyone’s minimum threshold for a benefit. The results indicate the Portfolio Diet yields heart-health benefits,” said John Sievenpiper, M.D., Ph.D., senior author of the study at St. Michael’s Hospital, a site of Unity Health Toronto in Ontario, Canada, and associate professor of nutritional sciences and medicine at the University of Toronto. The researchers believe the results highlight possible opportunities to lower heart disease by encouraging people to consume more foods in the Portfolio Diet. “We also found a dose response in our study, meaning that you can start small, adding one component of the Portfolio Diet at a time, and gain more heart-health benefits as you add more components,” said Andrea J. Glenn, M.Sc., R.D., lead author of the study and a doctoral student at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto and in nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto. Although the study was observational and cannot directly establish a cause-and-effect relation between diet and cardiovascular events, researchers feel it provides a most reliable estimate for the diet-heart relation to-date due to its study design (included well-validated food frequency questionnaires administered at baseline and year three in a large population of highly dedicated participants). Nevertheless, the investigators report that these findings need to be further investigated in additional populations of men or younger women. To read the original article click here.

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Extra Virgin Olive Oil Boosts Cognitive Function, New Trial

AHA Publisher — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 08:00:32 +0000

Joy Jensen via NaturalHealth365 – The Mediterranean diet has long been considered a heart-healthy diet, which consists of legumes, fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, and healthy fats, including olive oil. And it turns out that olive oil could be key in the health benefits it offers. A recent trial found that consuming extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) boosts cognitive function, making a case for using long-term intervention with the oil to boost brain health and performance. What was surprising was how supplementing with EVOO stacked up against following the Mediterranean diet alone. Surprising Brain Function Results Delivered by Using EVOO According to researchers, whose work was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease in October 2020, they wanted to learn more about the effects of Greek High Phenolic Early Harvest (HP-EH) extra virgin olive oil as compared to moderate phenolic EVOO and simply following the Mediterranean diet in individuals dealing with mild cognitive impairment. Scientists took three groups of people with mild cognitive impairment, gave one group the HP-EH extra virgin olive oil daily, another group the moderate phenolic EVOO daily, and the third group followed instructions for the Mediterranean diet. At the end of the trial, they found that the group with the best performance was the group that was giving the HP-EH extra virgin olive oil each day. They had improved cognitive performance in nearly every area that was tested, leading researchers to conclude that long-term intervention with EVOO offers significant improvements in overall cognitive function. Additional Health Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Beyond boosting brain health and improving cognitive function, EVOO offers many other health benefits that make it worth adding to your diet or even taking as a supplement. Studies show that regular consumption of EVOO helps reduce triglyceride levels, an important step for preventing heart disease. It’s also been found to help prevent blood clots and strokes, supporting healthy cholesterol levels that can keep platelets from sticking together and causing clots. The monounsaturated fats found in the oil are anti-inflammatory as well, reducing inflammation and boosting the health of cardiovascular tissues, which helps lower the risk of heart disease. Researchers have also discovered that EVOO has antimicrobial effects against the bacteria that cause peptic ulcers, while other studies show that regular olive oil consumption results in stronger bones and reduced risk of fractures. Previous studies also found that EVOO protects the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation, which may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. What’s the best way to get the benefits of extra virgin olive oil? Experts usually recommend getting between one to four tablespoons daily. You can use it on salads, drizzle it on veggies when you roast or sauté them, or use it when whipping up your favorite dips, spreads, pesto, or hummus. Just make sure you purchase extra virgin olive oil that’s been cold-pressed to ensure the valuable fatty acids, polyphenols, and nutrients aren’t destroyed during processing. Editor’s note: You may be interested in this article, “The Top 5 olive oils to protect your heart” – which includes my favorite brand. And, no, I do not have any financial incentive to give you this information. Sources for this article include: EuropePMC.org, LifeExtension.com, NaturalHealth365.com, NaturalHealth365.com, NaturalHealth365.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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New Health Study: Eat Nuts if You Want to Keep Off Those Extra Pounds

AHA Publisher — Sat, 12 Oct 2019 07:00:14 +0000

News Staff via CBN News – Replacing sugary snacks with a handful of nuts could lower the risk of obesity and excessive weight gain. NPR reports that more than 280,000 adults took part in three lengthy research studies where their diet and weight was monitored. Those participating in the study were followed for over 20 years and were asked every four years about weight and how often they were eating nuts. Researchers discovered that participants who consistently included nuts in their diet gained less weight. Epidemiologist and researcher Deirdre Tobias said, “We wanted to know whether nuts were associated with long-term weight gain.” More importantly, researchers say a small handful of nuts is all it takes. For example, 12 almonds or 10 walnuts. CBN News previously reported that walnuts have been linked to brain health as you get older because they may help prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease. Libby Mills, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics said, “Nuts have protein in them, which helps us feel full longer, and fiber, which helps fill us up.” “When you increase nuts at the expense of these other snack foods, there’s an even greater benefit,” Tobias added. A previous study by the Cleveland Clinic revealed that a diet loaded with excessive unhealthy foods was associated with one in five deaths worldwide. “We know that sugar is bad and people eat 10 times as much sugar as is recommended; we know that nuts are good, and prevent disease, and people eat only 12 percent of the recommended amount of nuts; so, we’re eating way too much of the bad stuff, and hardly enough of the good stuff,” said Dr. Mark Hyman, M.D., director of the Center for Functional Medicine of Cleveland Clinic, in a press release. Researchers recommend that whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds should make up 80 percent of your diet. To read the original article click here.

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