Health benefit of Pine Bark Extracts

[Extracted from the web pages of www.ihealthdirectory.com & www.suite101.com]

Health benefits of pine bark extracts include lower blood pressure, high levels of antioxidants, improvements in memory and reduced inflammation.

Health Benefits of Pine Bark Extracts – Pycnogenol Supplements

French maritime pine bark extracts are recognised to be rich in flavonoids, which are identified as being significantly more powerful than both vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as much more active than grapeseed extracts.

For many years, herbalists have been using bark extracts from the French maritime pine (Pinus maritima) as means to treat a number of health conditions. The extracts may be bought from health food stores and pharmacies, and are known as "Pycnogenol." The maritime pine tree lives in the western Mediterranean and can be found throughout parts of Spain, Italy, France, Morocco and Portugal. Discovered many years ago, in the 1500′s by a French explorer, the bark has helped many people over the last 450 years. Although the reasons for why the pine bark helped many people was not really known, in the 1950′s a man named Jacques Masquelier began to do a more thorough investigation on the beneficial properties of the ingredients found in the bark. This is when the antioxidant properties were discovered. The bark of the maritime pine tree contains chemicals called proanthocyanidins. This is turned into an extract that has antioxidant properties that people can use to benefit their health.

The pine bark extract is typically sold as the brand Pycnogenol. This is not the only form of the extract sold but is becoming one of the most popular. Proanthocyanidins are also found in other sources, including other plants as well as in grape seeds. There is much research being done to determine just how beneficial the antioxidants found in the pine bark extract are to human health. It is well known that antioxidants are wonderful for the human body, however determining how strong the antioxidant properties are in the pine bark extract and how well they work inside the human body is a continued study. Since antioxidants are used to rid the body of free radicals that attack the cell membranes and cause aging and damage to the cells, having as many sources of antioxidants as possible in the diet is important.

Many studies have been conducted on the use and benefits of pine bark extract and some of the studies have shown that it has proven beneficial in lowering blood sugar levels in patients suffering from diabetes. It may also help reduce swelling in those suffering from a condition called chronic venous insufficiency. Many people believe that the antioxidant components of the pine bark extract offer many other benefits as well. Protection against arthritis, protection against heart disease, cancers, and diabetes are all on the list of positives. Also preventing circulatory and swelling problems may be helped by taking pine bark extract. Some people have reported feeling less stressed, having a better memory, feeling less inflammation in their joints and having better flexibility due to taking the pine bark extract. The antioxidant qualities of the pine bark extract may also be the key to lowering cholesterol. Studies have shown that people who consume antioxidants on a regular basis have lower cholesterol levels than those who consume less antioxidants in their diet.

Therefore if we begin taking supplements that contain high antioxidant levels, we may be able to ward off high cholesterol and lessen the risk of blocked arteries and heart disease.

Other benefits include :

• anti-inflammatory benefits
• regulate nitric oxide, which is involved in blood vessel dilation
• strengthen fragile capillaries
• reduce abnormal blood clotting, ankle swelling
• help lower risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long-haul flights
• improves blood-thinning action of ASPIRIN®
• boost circulation; reduces cramps and muscular pain
• help improve leg ulcers
• lower blood pressure
• reduce "bad" cholesterol and raise "good" cholesterol
• improve memory and ability to "think straight"
• minimise hayfever and asthma symptoms
• reduce need for asthma inhalers
• improve blood glucose control in type 2 diabetes sufferers
• help prevent/treat diabetic foot ulcers
• reduce osteoarthritis pain and stiffness
• improve menopausal flushing and night sweats
• minimize menstrual pain
  
  

You can find pine bark extract in varying strengths and forms. Most vitamin shops will carry the pine bark extract in either a capsule or a tablet form. Make sure that you take the appropriate dosage listed on the label or discuss the appropriate amount you should take with a doctor or pharmacist. Depending on the person’s size, age and needs for the extract, dosages may vary from person to person.

Although pine bark extract may not have been heard of by many, it is growing in popularity and demand. The more scientific studies that are being done with pine bark extract are showing that there may be more and more benefits of this interesting ingredient. Over time we will continue to hear of more reasons why we should begin including this extract into our diets.

Benefit of being a Vegetarian

[Extracted from the webpage of Betterhealth.vic.gov.au for everypne's easy understanding]

Vegetarians are people who don’t eat meat, or seafood ... as well as eggs, or dairy foods. Vegans follow a form of vegetarianism, but consume only plant foods. Well-planned vegetarian diets have many health benefits and can provide all the essential vitamins and minerals necessary for a long and healthy life.

There are 3 main types of vegetarianism, namely;

• Lacto-ovo vegetarians –> those who avoid meat and seafood, but include dairy foods (such as milk and eggs) & plant foods;
• Lacto-vegetarians –> those who avoid meat, seafood & eggs, but include dairy foods & plant foods;
• Vegans –> those who consume only plant foods.

A well-balanced vegetarian, or vegan diet can provide many health benefits, such as a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including :

• Obesity;
• Coronary artery disease;
• Hypertension (high blood pressure);
• Diabetes;
• Some types of cancer.

Vegetarians and vegans also have lower rates of illness and death from a number of degenerative diseases.

A vegetarian, or vegan, need to plan their diet to make sure it includes all the essential nutrients. The wider the variety of foods they eat, the easier it will be to meet their nutritional requirements. Some essential dietary requirements, which could be missing from a vegetarian diet if it isn’t carefully planned, include :

• Protein;
• Minerals (including iron, calcium and zinc);
• Vitamin B12;
• Vitamin D.
  
  

Protein is essential for many bodily processes, including tissue building and repair. It is made up of smaller components called amino acids. A complete protein has all the amino acids necessary to make up protein. Most individual plant foods are not complete proteins –> they only have some of the amino acids. Soy is one of the only complete vegetable proteins. It was once thought that vegetarians and vegans needed to combine plant foods at each meal to ensure they consumed complete proteins.

Consuming various sources of amino acids throughout the day should provide the complete complement of protein. Generally, lacto-ovo vegetarians and lacto-vegetarian diets meet, or exceed their protein requirements, but some vegan diets may be low in protein.

Some good plant sources of protein include:

• Legumes such as beans, peas & lentils;
• Nuts & seeds;
• Soy products including soy beverages, tempeh & tofu;
• Whole (cereal) grains.

It is recommended that vegetarians & vegans eat legumes & nuts daily, along with wholegrain cereals, to ensure adequate nutrient intakes.

It is also important for a vegetarian, or a vegan to ensure that they get the right amount of essential dietary minerals. Some of these minerals and their suggested food sources include :

• Iron –> vegetarian & vegan diets are generally high in iron from plant foods. However, this iron is not absorbed, as well as the iron in meat. Good food sources of iron that are suitable for vegetarians & vegans include cereals fortified with iron, whole grains, legumes, tofu, green leafy vegetables & dried fruits. Combining these foods with foods high in vitamin C & food acids like fruit & vegetables will help your body absorb the iron;
  
• Zinc –> performs essential functions in the body, including the development of immune system cells. Good food sources of zinc include nuts, tofu, miso, legumes, wheatgerm and wholegrain foods;
  
• Calcium –> is needed for strong bones & teeth. Good food sources of calcium include dairy products, fortified cereals & fruit juices, fortified soymilk, tahini & some brands of tofu. Leafy dark green vegetables, almonds & Brazil nuts also contain calcium;
   
• Iodine –> our bodies need iodine for the thyroid gland & other associated hormones to function normally. Iodised salt is the most common source of iodine in the Western diet. Iodine is found in seafood, which is a rich source of this element. Sea vegetables (seaweed) also contain iodine, but are also high in salt.
  
  

Vitamin B12 is important for the production of red blood cells –> it helps to maintain healthy nerves & a healthy brain. Vegans are at risk of developing vitamin B12 deficiency because it is not found in plant products. Anaemia is a common result of B12 deficiency. If a breastfeeding mother is following a vegan diet, the lack of vitamin B12 in her milk can interfere with normal brain development of her baby.

Vitamin B12 can be found in dairy products & eggs. There are fortified vegan foods such as some soy beverages, & some vegetarian sausages & burgers. If vegans don’t get their B12 requirement from these foods, they are advised to take B12 supplements. Vitamin B12 absorption becomes less efficient as we age, so supplements may also be needed by older vegetarians. Mushrooms, tempeh, miso and sea vegetables are often claimed to be a source of B12. However, this is not accurate. They contain a compound with a similar structure to B12, but it doesn’t work like B12 in the body. They may contain some B12 on their surface, from soil (bacteria) or fertiliser contamination.

The main source of vitamin D for most Australians is sunlight. There are few foods that contain significant amounts of vitamin D. There is very little vitamin D in most people’s diets unless they eat fatty fish, eggs, liver, or foods fortified with vitamin D (such as margarine). Fortified low-fat & skim milk is another source of vitamin D, but the levels are low. Vegans can increase their chances of avoiding vitamin D deficiency by consuming fortified soy milk and cereals. As the sun is also a major source of vitamin D, dietary intake is only important when exposure to UV light from the sun is inadequate –> for e.g, in people who are housebound, or whose clothing covers almost all of their skin.

Well-planned vegan & vegetarian diets are appropriate for all stages of a person’s life. However, special care needs to be taken with young children.
Infants consuming breastmilk, or infant formula usually have their nutritional needs met. On weaning, it is important to include protein & energy-rich foods for growth, such as mashed tofu, or cottage cheese. Later, add cheese, cow’s milk, full-fat soy milk & legumes.

One way to ensure that vegetarian children meet their energy needs is to give them frequent meals & snacks. It is particularly important that vegan children have energy & nutrient-dense foods regularly (such as full-fat soy drink, tofu, mashed avocado, tahini spread & vegetables cooked with oil).

Some people choose to become vegetarian, or vegan as a healthy lifestyle choice, or for ethical reasons. There are also sound social reasons to be a vegetarian. Livestock production accounts for nearly 80 % of greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture worldwide. It also places a much heavier burden on water, land & fossil fuel resources than grains & other crops.

Things to remember

• Vegetarians don’t eat meat for a range of health, environmental, ethical, religious or economic reasons;
  
• A well-planned vegetarian diet can meet nutritional needs during all stages of life.

Manhattan Chiropractic Doctor Offers Exercise Advice Locals Benefit From

By Clyde Banosia

People are often prevented from doing many of the things they wish to do because of chronic pain. Issues such as stiffness, extreme discomfort, range of motion limitations, an inability to stand or sit comfortably, might prove even simply daily tasks difficult. Using problem specific adjustments, chiropractor offices Manhattan NY may be able to recommend helpful exercises to improve muscle and joint flexibility.

A lot of painful and motion restricting issues result from either improperly set joints, or displaced spinal vertebrae. In situations such as these, chiropractic care has proven to be a very effective means of addressing them. Their various methods and techniques are natural, as well as non invasive, safe, and generally provide quick results.

There are no drug therapies or surgical procedures used to address any of a patient's issues in this alternative branch of health care. The main focus of their attention are those problems that come about as a result of neuromuscular and skeletal alignment disorders. Manually adjusting the settings of joints and bones, especially spinal vertebrae, is the main approach practiced.

Therapeutic deep massage techniques might also be utilized if circumstances call for it. The different methods can have a keen effectiveness when it comes to alleviating the soreness that may remain in the muscles after a period of tension. The practice also helps to restore proper circulation in the damaged tissue and build suppleness.

Exercise is a very important part of keeping pain at bay. A doctor of chiropractic medicine will be able to design a customized workout routine that is catered to the individual patient's needs and situation. They can advise on the best way to perform the actions for maximum efficiency and minimal strain.

As the proper interaction of the bones, nerves and muscles is at the basis of chiropractic care, these doctors know how to optimize their relationship. Their keen perspective provide an insight on how to use exercise to increase a patient's flexibility without initiating pain. Each approach is customized to the individual's unique circumstances.

About the Author:

If you need help with your exercise program click here to visit your Manhattan NY chiropractor. Axon Health Associates is helping our patients live a pain-free lifestyle and you can find us online now at http://www.axonhealthassociates.com/ for more details.