Vitamin A has always been known as the eye vitamin. Amongst the different forms it may take, retinal and retinol possess vitamin A activity. Retinol, the alcohol form of vitamin A, functions as a storage for the vitamin which then is converted to retinal: the active metabolite in aldehyde form responsible for light absorption. Closely related in structure is retinoic acid. It is irreversibly synthesized from vitamin A but does not perform any action in the retina for visual operation. It does have however, a great impact especially when in direct contact with the skin. Vitamin A in fact has been known to bring outstanding benefits for the skin the way it does for the eyes. And to achieve better outcomes, vitamin A has been developed in forms to optimize its absorption in the skin, the most famous are the vitamin A creams.

Common teenage problems are acne breakouts while wrinkles are the most bothersome for aging people. For these troubles, vitamin A application is proven to reduce wrinkling or delay their appearance as well as lighten the intensity of stretch marks and scars. This is due to the anti-proliferative activity of vitamin A, and it may even contribute to treating psoriasis, the excessive sloughing off of cells. For skin excessively exposed to the sun, the skin might lose elasticity and may stimulate overproduction of melanin, a substance responsible for pigmentation. Vitamin A is still beneficial as it can aid in the production of the structural components of the skin and tone down pigment production.

These are just not claims purportedly pronouncing what vitamin A can do for the skin. Studies have constantly been conducted to prove the efficacy of vitamin A especially in wrinkle reduction. Doctors from Stanford University for one explored and examined the effectiveness of vitamin A in the form of retinol in elderly patients wherein one arm served as the control and the other one being the experimental arm. Skin biopsies were drawn from each participant to serve as a reference. Throughout the study, vitamin A was rubbed on the experimental arm for 24 weeks and observations were made and rated on every scheduled week. At the terminal day, skin biopsies were again taken to compare it from the condition of their skin prior to treatment and true enough, there was a dramatic decrease in the severity of creases and folds in the skin. A conclusive decision was made that vitamin A is efficient in improving wrinkling and may even promote sustainability during skin injury.

As mentioned above, retinoic acid is one vitamin A configuration that has special performance in the refinement of the skin. What is inevitable though is its potential to act offensively in skin cell differentiation especially when administered in an unregulated manner subsequently causing inflammation and unwanted irritation. To remedy this dilemma, milder forms of vitamin A are employed to bring about the same benefits with lesser side effects. Retinyl acetate and retinyl palmitate provide similar effects. Once in the epidermal cells, they are converted to retinol which is then oxidized to retinoic acid. It binds with the retinoic acid receptors in the epidermal cells and executes its activity. This type of process regulates the amount of retinoic acid production thus causing lesser unwanted events.

The advantages listed may be enticing especially when every one of us wants to maintain a supple, clear and firm skin. One might just have to be reminded that any difference does not happen overnight and in order to notice development, one must devote time, effort and finances to continue the treatment. It is always best to consult experts as this may take its toll in the long term.

econd to water, Proteins are the most abundant in nearly all cells. A typical human cell is said to contain 900 different proteins and the human body as a whole has 100,000 proteins all over. They account for almost half of a cell’s dry mass. What sets proteins apart from other macronutrients is the presence of nitrogen, which isn’t commonly found in carbohydrates and lipids. They often contain phosphorus and iron too, especially in specialized proteins. Proteins are essential because they play an important role in the manufacture, maintenance and repair of tissues, synthesis of enzymes and of certain hormones. Athletes, power lifters and bodybuilders are the ones in need of more proteins for tissue repair and growth. Often, they consume protein powders to supplement their protein intake. It is consumed before or after a workout or it may be a replacement for meals. Whatever the case may be, the goal is to supply the body of more than usual amount of proteins because of their intensive muscle routines. Whey protein has become very popular, but for vegans, rice protein powder seems to suit their preference.

Whey protein which is derived from dairy products which have been the standard option when it comes to protein supplements. They contain high levels of amino acids. Next option would be casein which may be used alone or in combination with whey. The trouble with these products is their ability to incur gastric discomforts to those who are not able to tolerate lactose-containing substances, which in this case, a non-dairy-derived protein powder may be needed.

Rice protein is the protein separated from brown rice. Contrary to the common belief that only carbohydrates can be obtained from rice, proteins in fact are contained in them and through enzymatic reactions, proteins are isolated, made into powder and the result is what we call now as the rice protein powder. It is a convenient way of consuming protein supplements as it can be combined with juice, water or any other beverage, an advantage to those who personally dislike the taste of the powder which they assert as bitter and chalky.

Several rice protein powders actually are formulated with a special flavour in it. NutriBiotic Vegan Organic Rice Protein offers rice protein powder in vanilla, chocolate and mixed berry flavours. Some are even made with antioxidants and flax seeds. Ladybird rice protein is enhanced with Spirulina, an algae enriched with vitamins, minerals, proteins and antioxidants. M-L-O Rice protein powder is another brand that has made in the name in the world of rice protein powder. It is naturally sweet, low in fat and free of cholesterol and is packed with fiber. Jarrow Formulas Rice Protein also follows the list. These are just some of the most recognized brands of rice protein powders in the market. All of them bear both essential and non-essential amino acids that are the building blocks of protein.

If you’re curious about rice protein powders and are willing to try it, you will be surprised about the vast array of rice protein products available in local supermarkets. Rice protein powders can be a special choice for those who have special dietary concerns, the lactose-intolerants, allergic, and vegetarians. The wide variety of flavours is a plus and can be advantageous in masking the unpleasant taste rice protein powders may have. A concern one may have about rice protein powder is the gritty texture it possesses which can even coat the teeth. But these can be barely noticed if mixed with your most favourite drinks. Truly supplements have become innovative, continuously evolving to meet with the needs of the people, and rice protein powders have caught up with the pace.

Have you heard of a miracle in a tree? Probing researchers seem to have found a prodigy in the presence of Morinda citrifolia, a tree that originated from the Southeast Asia and Australia but is now widely interspersed in tropical areas. This tree with fruits which possesses resemblance with that of the mulberry and foliage with that of the citrus fruits, hence its name, is colloquially termed the noni in the Hawaiian Islands. In 1992 a company started manufacturing pulp powders of the fruit and four years after, noni juice, capsules, and other products have begun their wide distribution. Among these forms, the extracted, pasteurized juice of the whole fruit is better celebrated by the adherents of this wonder fruit, thus we will take a look at the amusing and delighting noni juice benefits.

The noni juice seems to have something to offer to the entire body, from head to toe. These benefits can be attributed to the varied substances contained in the different parts of the noni tree.

1. To begin with, a component identified as damnacanthal has shown sedative effects during clinical trials using mice in a study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. The same constituent serves the analgesic effect of noni juice which can alleviate menstrual cramps.

2. Another substance, the noni-ppt, has shown promising potential of inhibiting cancer cells. In another study, it reduces the formation of tumor cells which lead researchers to believe that it has the capacity to promote reduction or even be a cure for cancer.

3. Noni juice also provides bone rigidity and flexibility. It can prevent bone-related diseases and enhance movements. People with arthritis can rely on this juice to avoid pain in the joint areas that can interfere with daily activities. In addition, healthy bones may compliment an improvement in physical performance. Furthermore, it dismisses fatigue and introduces vitality and vigor by being an effective energizer.

4. Noni juice has high fiber content, aiding smooth digestion and treatment for constipation; it protects the liver damage, suppress the growth of infections and parasites, and the availability of sterols help reduce cholesterol levels.

5. If these weren’t enough, noni juice promotes healthy body circulation. It has high levels of free-radical destroying antioxidants that improve cellular health and fight immune system ailments. It has anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial action and is a total booster for the immune system especially with the presence of what has been known as the proxeronine that strengthens the body and keeps it from falling ill.

6. Others even use noni to glamorize their skin. It isn’t questionable because noni juice inherently contains high vitamin C. It also helps in the rejuvenation of hair follicles, stimulating hair growth.

Noni juices are fermented and cold-pressed. Fermentation allows growth of yeast, enzymes and bacteria that are significant and beneficial. Following this process is cold-pressing which does not employ heat that can degrade the nutritional contents of the juice. So far, no side effects have been recorded in the consummation of the noni juice, only adverse effects brought by too much of taking it. Intestinal distress such as diarrhea aches and the like immediately subside.

The noni juice may be considered a fallen fruit from heaven. The benefits listed are just a fraction of the many things the noni juice can bring the human body and still, further investigations are being done to uncover what other constituents can be utilized in the mitigation or cure for diseases. But for now, the noni juice remains to be a supplement. Any imminent plans of including this in your daily food intake should come after consulting with your physician. As fascinating as this wonder fruit may sound, it may cause interference in any medications you are currently taking. Caution is a must.

Everybody always wanted a sharp memory. There’s nothing like recalling facts in such a short time without racking your brain so hard. Unfortunately, the daily activities to which we engage contribute to the slow and easy decline of our cognitive functioning. Stress, alcohol, drugs and our choice of foods synergistically work together in the build-up of toxic materials that affect the proper nourishment of brain cells. This lack of nutrition of the basic functional unit of the nervous system ultimately deprives the brain of the essential nourishing it also needs for efficient functioning. In the aftermath, a deficiency degrades quick memory retrieval and invites a host of other ailments to attack the brain, a needless occurrence with an appropriate selection of highly nutritionally enriched foods and memory vitamin supplication.

Throughout the body are neurons or nerve cells that reach to one another. Action potential jumps from neuron to another in the transmission of information from the body to brain and vice versa. When we are learning, the brain creates connective pathways that make learning better and easier. As we age though, it becomes harder for the brain to create these pathways. Moreover, brain cells begin to degenerate that could lead to memory problems. Vitamins help in the production of essential elements like proteins that are needed for the smooth functioning of the brain. With sufficient consummation of vitamin-enriched foods, we may be spared of the need to supplement ourselves with these memory vitamins, but there had been studies going on regarding memory vitamin intake and though further researching must be conducted, preliminary results show significance that are worth noting, and also when we consider the usual food selection of most people we are faced with the fact that we are giving our bodies less than the proper nutrients it needs.

There is yet a vitamin considered to be a memory vitamin but closest to what can be called as that so far is cyanocobalamin better known as vitamin B12. It is the bulwark of the central nervous system (CNS). It protects the CNS and prevents memory loss by inhibiting further production of an amino acid called homocysteine that provokes memory shortage. This vitamin is said to be found only in dairy and meat products so those in a strict vegetarian diet and the elderly too must include this in their daily regimen.

After B12, B6 follows the list. It also helps in memory retention and over-all brain functioning. Together with B9, they help in the production of red blood cells which carries oxygen, an essential element that is utilized extensively by the brain. This vitamin can also be found in green leafy vegetables, mustard, legumes, potatoes, eggs, milk, and cereals but also in berries and other citrus fruits.

Vitamins C and E can’t be dropped from the list. Greatly recognized as powerful antioxidants they continue to fight the free radicals that exist in the system. Free radicals are highly reactive, uncharged molecules that bind to components in the brain tissues that subsequently destroy them. Vitamins C and E work by attracting free radicals unto themselves preventing destruction of other important molecules. Furthermore, vitamin E promotes improved blood flow to the brain. The most popular sources especially of vitamin C are oranges, lemons, and berries although they may also be found in vegetables like broccoli, spinach, bell peppers; and vitamin E in nuts, green tea, etc.

Nobody can deny how much important a good memory is. We stay connected to our society and continue to interact with it. The good thing is we can remain to stay that way. As long as we keep our brain working and well-fed at the same time, memory loss can be kept at bay.

Vitamins are organic chemicals that are necessary for normal metabolic functions and tissue growth. The body needs only a small amount of these but may be increased for those who are pregnant, ill, or those who are receiving inadequate nutrition. Deficiency in vitamins may reflect in our over-all appearance. For us who give much premium to our outward beauty, a lack in important vitamins may cause us the health of our skin and hair. Here, we will delve into what is needed most by our hair, thus we will talk more about hair vitamins.

The anatomy of the hair can be divided into three: cuticle, medulla, and cortex; the cortex and the cuticle being what you immediately see when hair splits. The cuticle holds the hair in the hair follicle, an extension of the epidermis below the surface. At the base of the hair follicle is the dermal papilla which is nourished by the blood vessels connected beneath it. Hair grows from the hair bulb, which encloses the dermal papilla. There are three cycles in hair growth. Within the hair bulb, cells divide giving rise to a new hair. It continues to add new cells at the base so hair continues to grow long. After which it rests and waits until the next time growth resumes. When it begins the hair falls out and the new hair is pushed out.

As we live in a hustled and hurried world, the food we prefer, activities we daily engage, and our lack of exercise all form part of the health of our hair. Along with too much sun exposure, alcohol, smoke, and chemicals, all the inevitable can happen. The usual hair problems could be thinning, breaking, shedding, and splitting. People believe that we shed about 50-100 strands per day and we have learned that this fallen hair is going to be replaced by a newly formed hair. However, in the process of making new hair, the metabolic requirements must be met in order to maximize hair growth. Certain vitamins serve as raw materials in the manufacture of new hair and must be present in adequate amounts. There are a couple of vitamins that play an essential role in the growth of a strong, brilliant and long hair.

The B-vitamins are first. Folate, Biotin, Inositol, Pyridoxine, Niacin and Pantothenic Acid are among the members of the B-vitamin family that are important for proper hair growth and development. They assist the body in the production of haemoglobin that transports oxygen to the hair. Without it, the hair will not get the oxygen it needs for proper hair growth. The hair follicles also need it for proper replication and division of cells.

Vitamin C plays a role in scalp circulation, defense against microbes, and production of collagen. It fights infections that may occur in the scalp, and collagen formation provides elasticity and strong foundation for the growing hair. It also increases absorption of Iron needed for hair growth. Aside from treating acne, vitamin A is involved in hair growth and maintenance. It is important in the regulation of important substances in the hair follicle. Vitamin E, another natural detoxifier stimulates blood circulation so nutrients can reach the hair follicles. It also builds the capillaries and other structural components in the hair thus promoting hair growth.

Hair fall is a problem and is a source of frustration for many people all over the globe. But, if we get to the root of the problem then we can still give it the chance to grow out healthily. As long as we feed ourselves with foods that are rich in these vitamins, we can expect a beautiful and long mane.

Hypothyroidism is a disease marked by weight loss, dry and pale complexion, hair thinning, weakness, fatigue and several other palpable symptoms. It is the result of a deficient production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland initiates the synthesis of thyroxine and triiodothyronine under the supervision of the anterior pituitary gland and requires the trace element iodine to commence their fabrication. In the case of hypothyroidism, iodine comes at levels less than what is needed to produce the thyroid hormones. In order to re-establish the normalcy of the thyroid gland, the patient must alter his/her daily food plan, get involve in a heart-pumping exercise, comply with the doctor’s prescribed drug regimen and may compliment it with thyroid supplements.

Kelp, seaweed, iodine, zinc, and selenium are the most typical types of thyroid supplements. Fishes are the homes of minerals such as zinc, iodine and selenium and so are sea vegetables! They are enriched with these minerals that aid in the improvement of thyroid health. Selenium is not only involved in the conversion of thyroxine to triiodothyronine and its release, it also supports their production in their most active form. Zinc is equally essential as it not only collaborates with selenium in the conversion and production; it also assists the thyrotropin-releasing (TRH) hormone in the hypothalamus to stimulate the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in the anterior pituitary gland to command the thyroid gland to make its thyroid hormones. Lastly, iodine itself is the ultimate necessity in the manufacture of the thyroid hormones. They are a collaborative team aiming to supplement the insufficiency and help the inability of the thyroid gland to create its own hormones.

Thyroid supplements may help in escalating the ability of the thyroid gland to function efficiently, however one should remember that this is not supposed to replace doctor’s prescription.

The hair is the crowning glory of a woman that now holds true for men. Both sexes seemed to have developed vanity in hair care regimens and have painstakingly incorporated various methods in maintaining hair brilliance and resilience. The continuous arrival and evolution of hair creams, mousses, and a plethora of other hair care formulas means that people patronize these products in hopes of beautiful locks. However, most of us are exposed to frequent sun exposure, blow drying, and extensive use of other chemical-based products; put them them together and it can only result to a brittle and lifeless hair. Shampooing on a daily basis for one thing, poses great danger because chemicals rested on the scalp can make its way inside the body. Thus, for people conscious of these, the use of organic shampoos is not a novelty.

Organic shampoos are gentle cleansers that help remove oil and dirt in the hair without stripping it of its natural moisture. They also contain ingredients that are nature-derived. Synthetic chemicals like parabens, propylene glycol, and paraffin contained in non-organic shampoos that could cause cancer, induce premature aging, and clog pores may perhaps be replaced by using rosemary oil, vegetable glycerine and coconut oil. Other plant materials employed in organic shampoos may be:
1. pure avocado oil which keeps hair soft from roots to tips,
2. seaweed extract which restores elasticity while soothing and toning dry scalp without the heavy feel, and
3. Aloe vera to further promote hair growth. Another good thing about organic shampoos is that you don’t have to worry about residues.

Non-organic shampoos tend to leave films on the hair follicle and hair shafts which clog the pores and consequently result to hair fall. Organic shampoos mildly eliminate filth in the hair and leaves only neatness and softness behind.

You can foresee a future of pure wellness if you choose to use organic products. You know what you’re using and can be sure that it is safe and healthy for you. Then, you can always keep that crown on your head.

Health Trend: Overdosing Vitamin b3

One of the greatest trends in the health and fitness world is niacin flushing, deliberately consuming an overdose of niacin in order to cause vasodilation in the body. This has several benefits for your health: Improving cholesterol, shredding a few pounds and growing back hair naturally. It is best to achieve a niacin flush by eating organic natural foods, instead of taking supplements. This article will explain how niacin flushing works, how you can achieve the benefits yourself too and how to prevent side effects.

How it exactly Works

When you take in the surplus of vitamin b3, basically your veins will become a little wider. This process greatly enhances blood flow, and gives your body a chance to get rid of poisonous waste cluttered in places where circulation is normally weak like the capillaries. This process lowers bad cholesterol and improves good cholesterol.

Moreover, when you take in the overdose of niacin, your body will use some fat and transform it into energy, allowing you to do more exercises at the gym or run a little longer on the treadmill. In this way, niacin flushing indirectly helps you to lose weight: it should not be regarded as some sort of magic pill for weight loss

Finally, blood flow to the scalp is also improved, stimulating natural hair growth. Another benefits for hair growth is that the production of DHT is reduced. DHT is a form of testosterone that often makes men bald at young age.

Niacin Consumption: Supplements or Organic Natural Foods?

You can consume niacin in two ways: Firstly you could just eat lots of niacin dense foods in order to cause a niacin flush. Another option is to take in niacin supplements. Personally, I heavily recommend just eating foods that are high in niacin. This is not only much healthier, but they also contain other highly important micronutrients such as folic acid. The following list shows my favorite niacin dense foods.

1. Sun dried tomatoes | 8.0 mg vitamin b3 per 100 grams serving.
2. Tamari | 2.6 mg vitamin b3 per tab.
3. Raw Crimini mushrooms | 4.3 mg vitamin b3 per 4 OZ.
4. Peanut butter | 2.8 mg niacin per 2 ounces serving.
5. Wild salmon | 7.5 mg vitamin b3 per 3 ounces serving.
6. Organic chicken| 9.7 mg niacin per 3 ounces serving.
7. Organic turkey | 5.1 mg vitamin b3 per 3 ounces serving.
8. Shiitake mushrooms | 4.5 mg vitamin b3 per cup.
9. Lentils | 1.0 mg vitamin b3 per cup.
10. Lima beans | 0.8 mg vitamin b3 per cup.

Avoiding Niacin Flushing Side Effects

Many people complain about side effects after their first niacin flush. The most common side effects are a red skin, headaches and diarrhea. In order to avoid these side effects it is best to monitor niacin consumption closely. People experiencing side effects almost always have taken in way too much niacin. This is another reason why I prefer niacin dense foods over supplements; supplements often are way too concentrated, increasing the chance of side effects.

Personally I recommend taking with you a notepad where you jot in how much niacin you have consumed during the day. Another tip that I can attest is spreading the consumption of niacin over the day, instead of taking it all in once.  Another remedy is to take in an aspirin 30 minutes prior to the niacin dense meal. Whatever, you do be sure to avoid alcoholic and hot beverages that only intensify the side effects. It is best to drink lots of water during the flushing period.

If you follow the advice given in this article, you can enjoy niacin benefits, without having to worry about nasty side effects like a red skin and a tingling feeling in the chest.

Today, many of us around the world lead busy lives that we sometimes tend to forget the basic needs of our body. The primary factor for our tendency to neglect our bodies unconsciously is we are much more focused on getting through the day finishing the tasks at hand as we perform our means for a living. However, people in the rural areas know certainly that nature can provide a lot of resources to supplement our bodies with components that energize us and keep us healthy. One of these natural resources is the bee pollen, often dubbed as a “super food” by many of its enthusiasts and food experts alike.

As a matter of fact, certain scientific studies around the world were published concluding that bee pollen cleanses the blood, which in turn could benefit people having problems with cholesterol, cancer, prostate, and many others.

However, as a responsible consumer, we must not believe right away what we read on the labels of bee pollen products. We are also ought to be objective. Take the case for example of pharmaceutical drugs. Scientists took years of research to conclude that a drug is indeed safe and effective to take for a particular illness, backed by numerous clinical studies and published by recognized medical journals. Only then can doctors be authorized to prescribe a drug to their patients.

In the same light although we are only talking about bee pollen as a herbal medicine and food supplement, we must not be swayed right away of all the glitter and glamour pollen claimants speak of. A responsible consumer should know the facts as well.

This is an article which highlights some of the published researches of bee pollen for your peace of mind.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine has publications of bee pollen for demonstrating strong antioxidant effects, a potential as a treatment for enlarged prostate, showing anti-allergic action at a cellular level, and a possible candidate for cancer treatment.

The research on bee pollen’s antioxidant effects was conducted in Gifu, Japan’s Gifu Pharmaceutical University. The University Hospital of Wales’ researchers in the Department of Urology have done a study on men suffering from BPH or Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia being treated with pollen extract. The result was astonishing because the treated men showed significant improvement. On the other hand, Juntendo University School of Medicine in Tokyo, Japan found out through giving daily doses of bee pollen to mice that indeed this super food has anti-allergic compounds. A group of athletes taking pollen extract for 6 weeks missed fewer training days due to upper respiratory tract infection. This was evidenced in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. It was also learned that indeed the bee pollen can have the potential to treat advanced prostate cancer through a research done in Zhejiang University in Hangzhou, China.

Take note though that more bee pollen research is needed to support therapeutic claims made by some brands, but there is no doubt that the bee pollen is among the most nutritious foods on earth.

Below are some more facts about bee pollen:

1. Contains 60% carbohydrates. Highest concentrations are of fructose, glucose, and sucrose.

2. Contains 20% protein. Bee-collected pollen has higher nutritive value of protein than hand-collected pollen.

3. Contains 7% fat. Bee-gathered pollen has high amounts of arachidonic, linoleic and linolenic fatty acids.

4. Contains 7% moisture or water.

5. Contains 6% minerals. Its mineral contents contain potassium, phosphorus, sulfur, and calcium; as well as selenium, sodium, magnesium, and iron.

6. Bee pollen also has considerable amounts of vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, folic acid, and vitamin B12.

Two of the most popular brands of bee pollen are Durham’s Queen’s Delight and Y.S. Organic Bee Farms Fresh Bee Pollen Whole Granules.