Friday, June 12, 2009

day 2- 30 day shred

Yesterday I did day 2 of the 30 day shred. I felt like I was going to die. A lot of my msucle hurt from the previous day, but I am going to follow the plan to see how it goes. I really want to know if this is worth sticking with or not. I am hoping to get a chance to do day 3 today but am not sure how today or the rest of the weekend will go. But If I can lose 20 lbs in 30 days, I will accept it and try my hardest to finish the program. I am sore today, and not sure if my body will hold up for day 3. My arms and legs were shaking after the workout. I also had to stop during push ups because my arms couldn't take anymore!

Thursday, June 11, 2009

30 DAY SHRED REVIEW

So my review on the 30 days shred.
Yesterday I did the 30 day shred. I have tried it once before and it really kicks your butt. I really plan to stick with this for 30 days. Life happens, so we will see if that will come true.

The 30 day shred is 20 minutes of a combination of cardio, abs, and strength. It says that if you follow this program you can lose up to 20 lbs in 30 days. It is really tempting. I worked out yesterday and ate around 1200 calories, which I think is ok and I have lost a lbs. I think within the next few days I will see if this is water weight or in fact real weight loss.

My arms are a little sore, my hurts a little. When I first finished the workout my arms and legs were shaking. When you are doing the workout, if you aren't fit or just have no upper body strength like me, you feel like you can't take it anymore. I was so happy to be done yesterday and looking back, feel like a wimp that I gave in a few times and stopped working out.

It made me think as I was doing the workout, once I lose the weight I am going to do everything in my power to keep it off. I think Jillian is a good motivator, and is pretty accurate when she counts down. I hate working out when a person says 3 more, then 10 reps later, they are like ok 3 more. WTH?

I recommend trying this. I am going to keep updating you on results. Part one is to be done for 10 days. Every lb I lose, you will know, when I switch to 2nd or 3rd level, you will know. Please, if you try this, let me know your opinion or any success you have. I love hearing positive stories.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Lose Weight by Increasing Intake of Complete Proteins

Lose Weight by Increasing Intake of Complete Proteins
Thursday, April 02 2009 - by SoundHealth Read more articles at HealthyMuslim.Com

The following research paper outlines the benefits of a high-protein weight loss diet over a low-protein diet.

Abstract

Purpose of review: High-protein diets, often with carbohydrate restriction, are quite popular among overweight Americans pursuing strategies for weight control. Recently, well designed clinical trials have evaluated the anthropometric and metabolic effects of these diets. This review focuses on the impact of high-protein diets on energy expenditure and satiety; the diets' effects on weight loss, body composition, cardiovascular risk, and glycemic control; and potential detrimental consequences of high-protein intake.

Recent findings: Current evidence indicates that protein-induced energy expenditure and satiety contribute to weight control. Randomized, controlled trials continue to show comparable, if not superior, effects of high-protein diets compared with lower protein diets on weight loss, preservation of lean body mass, and improvement in several cardiovascular risk factors for up to 12 months. Evidence that chronic high-protein intake affects glucose metabolism is inconclusive at present. Further study of the long-term safety of diets with varying amounts of protein is warranted.

Summary: On the basis of patients' metabolic profiles and preferences, practitioners can recommend individualized, nutrient-rich diets within current nutritional guidelines for weight control. Diets moderately increased in protein and modestly restricted in carbohydrate and fat, particularly saturated fat, may have beneficial effects on body weight, body composition, and associated metabolic parameters. Key issues must be resolved regarding the long-term compliance and safety of chronic high-protein intake.

Brehm BJ, D'Alessio DA, Benefits of high-protein weight loss diets: enough evidence for practice? Current Opinion in Endocrinology, diabetes and Obesity: October 2008 - Volume 15 - Issue 5 - p 416-421

This research study concludes that diets slightly higher in protein, compared to carbohydrate and fat intake, are beneficial for body weight and for a leaner body composition. Researchers found that protein induced and promoted energy expenditure and promoted feelings of fullness and satisfaction that contributed to weight control. Another recent study also found that increasing protein intake resulted in sustained weight loss, and helped to maintain a healthy weight [1].

Protein is the single most important nutrient that influences metabolic rate and weight loss. Every cell in the human body contains protein. It is a major component of skin, muscles, organs, and glands, and helps to improve immunity, antioxidant function, the production of enzymes, and enhances insulin function. Complete proteins are especially important because they form the structure and integrity of every part of the body.

Meat is the not the only source of high quality, complete protein

Meat and dairy products including poultry,eggs and fish all contain complete sources of protein, i.e. all essential amino acids that the body needs. However complete proteins can also be obtained from a vegetarian diet.

The amino acids found in vegetables are just as high quality as the amino acids found in animals products and can be used just as effectively by the human body. Most protein from vegetables usually contain most of the nine essential amino acids, but one or two of them may be at low levels compared to the protein in animal foods. There are a handful of vegetarian sources that offer complete protein and can stand alone as the main protein source in any meal. These include:

* Quinoa
* Buckwheat
* Hemp seed

Foods that offer high levels of incomplete protein include beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and many grains. beans, lentils, and peas can be easily combined with brown rice or corn to create a delicious complete protein dish.

If you are trying to lose weight, go easy on high carbohydrate foods that are easily broken down in the body and can leave you feeling hungry again quickly, like pasta, potatoes, rice and bread. Eat foods that are good sources of protein and that provide a feeling a satiety, especially complete proteins, as often as possible.

References

[1] Weigle et al A high-protein diet induces sustained reductions in appetite, ad libitum caloric intake, and body weight despite compensatory changes in diurnal plasma leptin and ghrelin concentrations. Am J Clin Nutr 2005, pages 41-8.


Related Articles:

* Lose Weight by Increasing Intake of Complete Proteins
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?lqkhy
* Food Combining For Optimum Nutrition: Food Categories
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?ttlmv
* Nutrients and Superfoods for Healthy Skin
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?teyfk
* Food Combining for Optimum Nutrition: The Basics
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?jcchy
* Why We Need Protein in our Diets
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?cuyvb
* High Fibre Diet Supports Weight Loss
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?yhzpl

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

30 day shred

So after the past 2 writing in a journal everything I ate, I realized I eat too much calories. By too much, I mean like 2000ish calories a day. I need to bring my intake back down. I lose weigh when I am around 1000 calories plus exercise. I do believe I have a slow metabolism which doesn't work to my advantage. Today I decided I am going to try the 30 day shred by Jillian Michaels. I have tried it once before, and it is a 20 minute kick ass workout!

I couldn't bring myself to purchase it until I try it out for 30 days. I would like to make sure this is going to work, I hate buying dvd's then adding them to my collection of dvd's that just collect dust. I will report back how I feel starting tomorrow. I do know I was sore for 4 days last time I tried it.

Cranberries are Great Immunity Boosters

Cranberries are Great Immunity Boosters
Monday, June 08 2009 - by SoundHealth Read more articles at HealthyMuslim.Com

Cranberries are tiny, but tasty infection-fighting fruits packed with antioxidant Vitamin C and natural anti-bacterial properties and have been proven to prevent and treat common infections of the immune, digestive and urinary system.

The cranberry is a glossy, bright red, tart-tasting berry and is closely related to the blueberry. Like blueberries, cranberries can be found growing as wild shrubs, but are also grown to be cultivated.

Cranberries are rich in fiber and are an excellent source of Vitamin C and phytonutrients, such as flavonoids and proanthocyanidins (PAC).They contain more phenolic antioxidants than nineteen of the most popular consumed fruits according to a study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.

Health Benefits

Numerous studies have established the role of cranberries in fighting urinary tract infections (UTIs) such as cystitis. According to one scientific advisor, cranberries are not only nutritious but have unique antiadhesion and antibacterial properties not found in other fruit:

"There have been multiple clinical studies done using cranberry juice and it turns out that cranberry has unique antiadhesion properties that prevent certain harmful bacteria from sticking to cells in our body. This newer concept of antiadhesion is not just limited to UTIs (urinary tract infections) but potentially other harmful bacteria as well, including those responsible for stomach ulcers and gum disease."

cancer

Multiple studies have found that flavonoid compounds including anthocyanins, flavonols, and proanthocyanidins, found naturally in cranberries, are able to fight leukemia, breast, lung, colon and potentially many other types of cancer.

Digestive Health

Cranberry juice has been shown to inhibit bacteria associated with peptic ulcers, H. pylori. Though most ulcers are not life-threatening, H. pylori bacteria has been associated with stomach cancer, acid reflux disease and gastritis. Cranberries' properties have also been shown to help reduce diarrhea.

Periodontal Disease

In a study that appeared in the Journal of the American Dental Association, a component of cranberry juice was demonstrated to have the ability to stop bacteria from adhering to teeth and gums, thus reducing plaque and periodontal disease.

Tips on Using Cranberries

* Many commercially available cranberry juices contain low levels of cranberry juice and high amounts of much sugar or artificial sweeteners, therefore read the labels carefully, or opt for pure organic juices.

* Fresh, then dried cranberries retain the most antioxidants; bottled cranberry drinks and cranberry cocktails with added sugars or sweeteners contain the least.

References

* Turner A. Inhibition of uropathogenic Escherichia coli by cranberry juice: a new antiadherence assay. J Agric Food Chem. 2005 Nov 16;53(23):8940-7.

* Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of common fruits. J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Dec 4;50(25):7449-54.

* Yan X, Murphy BT,Hammond GB, Vinson JA,Neto CC. Antioxidant activities and antitumor screening of extracts from cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon). J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Oct 9;50(21):5844-9.

* Zhang L. Efficacy of cranberry juice on Helicobacter pylori infection: a double-blind, randomized placebocontrolled trial. Helicobacter. 2005 Apr;10(2):139-45.

* Weiss EI et al. Inhibiting interspecies coaggregation of plaque bacteria with a cranberry juice constituent [published erratam appear in J Am Dent Assoc 1999 Jan;130(1):36 and 1999 Mar;130(3):332] J Am Dent Assoc. 1998 Dec;129(12):1719-23.

* Labrecque J, Bodet C, Chandad F, Grenier D. Effects of a high-molecular-weight cranberry fraction on growth, biofilm formation and adherence of Porphyromonas gingivalis. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2006 Aug;58(2):439-43.


Related Articles:

* Cranberries are Great Immunity Boosters
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?erxsp
* Organic Dried Fruit: A Healthy Nutritious Snack
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?wdxbm

Friday, June 5, 2009

what I ate 06/04/09

breakfast:
nothing

Lunch:
smoked turkey sandwich on toasted wheat bread with mayo and tomato
No cheese

Dinner:
A fist full of pasta with a little homemade marinara sauce
a small bowl on lentil soup made w/ carrots and potatoes

snack:
small mint mocha chip cappuccino from Starbucks because of my crazy cravings and extreme pain. It did make me feel better.

Honey for Fighting Colds, Viruses and Skin Infections

Honey for Fighting Colds, Viruses and Skin Infections
Monday, May 18 2009 - by SoundHealth
Read more articles at HealthyMuslim.Com

Honey (natural and unprocessed) is an excellent natural remedy for a variety of ailments. This article outlines the findings of studies that have found honey to be a remedy for treating viruses like the common cold, and skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema and cold sores.

Honey Shortens the Duration of a Cold

A new study has found that eating honey reduces the duration of the common cold; more specifically, eating two ounces of honey a day reduces the length of the common cold by up two days.

The researchers, from Jahrom University of Medical Science in Iran recruited men and women within 24 hours of catching a cold.

All 60 patients were given traditional therapies - such as decongestants and anti-pyretics (drugs to lower a temperature) - but half of them were also given a dose of honey - two ounces (around four tablespoons) - every day.

Researchers monitored a range of symptoms including a runny nose, muscle pain, fever, coughing and sneezing. They did not know who had been given the honey.

At the end of the study, which was reported in the Archives of Medical Research, the researchers found a significant difference in duration of all symptoms, with the honey group faring much better. It's thought that this is due to compounds in honey such as phenolic acid and flavonoids.

Research paper details:

Pourahmad M, Sobhanian S. Effect of honey on the common cold. Archives of Medical Research Vol 40, Issue 3, April 2009, Pages 224-225

Honey Fights Viruses and skin Infections

This is not the first stdy to find honey to be effective against viruses. In recent trials at the Dubai Medical Centre, Dr Noori Al-Waili has researched and published many papers on using honey as a natural healer, to treat skin conditions including seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, fungal infections, and the herpes virus.

Honey Relieves dandruff and Its Causes

A paper published in 2001 looked at seborrheic dermatitis. This is a common inflammatory skin condition that causes flaky scales that form on oily areas such as the scalp, and is a common cause of dandruff.

Research paper details:

Al-Waili NS. Therapeutic and prophylactic effects of crude honey on chronic seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Eur J Med Res. 2001 Jul 30;6(7):306-8.

Abstract

Honey has antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidants activities and has high nutrient value. In this study we investigated the potential use of topical application of crude honey in the management of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff. Thirty patients with chronic seborrheic dermatitis of scalp, face and front of chest were entered for study. Twenty patients were males and 10 were females, their ages ranged between 15 and 60 years. The patients had scaling, itching and hair loss. The lesions were scaling macules, papules and dry white plaques with crust and fissures. The patients were asked to apply diluted crude honey (90% honey diluted in warm water) every other day on the lesions with gentle rubbing for 2-3 mins. Honey was left for 3 hr before gentle rinsing with warm water. The patients were followed daily for itching, scaling, hair loss and the lesions were examined. Treatment was continued for 4 weeks. The improved patients were included in a prophylactic phase, lasting six months. Half patients were treated with the topical honey once weekly and the other half served as control. All the patients responded markedly with application of honey. Itching was relieved and scaling was disappeared within one week. Skin lesions were healed and disappeared completely within 2 weeks. In addition, patients showed subjective improvement in hair loss. None of the patients ( 15 patients) treated with honey application once weekly for six months showed relapse while the 12/15 patients who had no prophylactic treatment with honey experienced a relapse of the lesions 2-4 months after stopping treatment. It might be concluded that crude honey could markedly improve seborrheic dermatitis and associated hair loss and prevent relapse when applied weekly.

Honey Is An Effective Treatment for eczema and Psoriasis

A second paper from 2003 looked at atopic dermatitis, which is a form of eczema, and psoriasis. A honey salve was added to varying strengths of steroid mixtures and also compared against a placebo Vaseline mixture. The honey salve was found useful on its own by showing significant improvement in psoriasis patients, and no worsening of symptoms.

Research paper details:

Al-Waili NS. Topical application of natural honey, beeswax and olive oil mixture for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis: partially controlled, single-blinded study. Complement Ther Med. 2003 Dec;11(4):226-34.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of honey, olive oil and beeswax mixture on patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) or psoriasis vulgaris (PV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one patients with dermatitis and 18 patients with psoriasis were entered for patient-blinded, partially controlled study; 11 patients with dermatitis used topical betamethasone esters and 10 patients with psoriasis used clobetasol propionate. Honey mixture contained honey, beeswax and olive oil (1:1:1). Mixtures A, B, and C contained honey mixture with the corticosteroids ointment in a ratio of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1 respectively. Patients with dermatitis were subjected to controlled bilateral half-body comparison to evaluate the efficacy of honey mixture against Vaseline, or mixture A against Vaseline-betamethasone esters mixture (1:1) in patients using topical corticosteroid treatment. In patients with psoriasis, the effect of honey mixture was compared with paraffin in an individual right/left-sites comparison, or mixture A against paraffin-clobetasol propionate mixture (1:1) in patients using corticosteroid topical therapy. In dermatitis, body lesions on right or left half-body were assessed for erythema, scaling, lichenification, excoriation, indurations, oozing and itching on a 0-4 points scale. In psoriasis, lesions of selected site were assessed for redness, scaling, thickening and itching, on a 0-4 points scale.

RESULTS: In honey mixture group, 8/10 patients with dermatitis showed significant improvement after 2 weeks, and 5/11 patients pretreated with betamethasone esters showed no deterioration upon 75% reduction of corticosteroid doses with use of mixture C. In psoriasis, 5/8 patients showed a significant response to honey mixture. In patients using clobetasol propionate, 5/10 patients showed no deterioration upon 75% reduction of corticosteroid doses with use of mixture C.

CONCLUSION: honey mixture appears useful in the management of dermatitis and psoriasis vulgaris.

Honey and Fungal Infections

Another paper published in 2004, looked at the topical use of honey for treating fungal infections of the skin. The majority of patients tested found prompt relief from their conditions, and some were cured within 3 weeks.

Research paper details:

Al-Waili NS. An alternative treatment for pityriasis versicolor, tinea cruris, tinea corporis and tinea faciei with topical application of honey, olive oil and beeswax mixture: an open pilot study. Complement Ther Med. 2004 Mar;12(1):45-7.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the possible role of honey, olive oil and beeswax in the treatment of skin fungal infections.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Thirty-seven patients with pityriasis versicolor, tinea cruris, tinea corporis and tinea faciei were studied. After clinical evaluation of redness, scaling, pruritis and burning/pain sensation and mycological assessment, honey mixture containing honey, olive oil and beeswax (1:1:1) was applied to the lesions three times daily for a maximum of 4 weeks.

RESULTS: Clinical response was obtained in 86% of patients with pityriasis versicolor, 78% of patients with tinea cruris and in 75% of patients with tinea corporis. Mycological cure was obtained in 75, 71 and 62% of patients with PV, tinea cruris and tinea corporis, respectively. The patient with tinea faciei showed clinical and mycological cure 3 weeks after commencement of therapy.

CONCLUSION: honey mixture may have place in the management of these skin conditions and rigorous, controlled trials are justified.

Honey Treats cold Sores Better than Drugs

Another research paper from 2004 compared the use of honey versus acyclovir (a drug used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses), in treating recurrent cold sores or genital herpes. The study found that honey worked much better than acyclovir in terms of reduced attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and healing time. The people who used honey instead of acyclovir cream shortened their healing time by 43% for cold sores and 59% for genital herpes sores, with no side effects.

Research paper details:

Al-Waili NS. Topical honey application vs. acyclovir for the treatment of recurrent herpes simplex lesions. Med Sci Monit. 2004 Aug;10(8):MT94-8. Epub 2004 Jul 23.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this research was to investigate the effect of the topical application of honey on recurrent attacks of herpes lesions, labial and genital, as compared to acyclovir cream.

MATERIAL/METHODS: Sixteen adult patients with a history of recurrent attacks of herpetic lesions, 8 labial and 8 genital, were treated by topical application of honey for one attack and acyclovir cream for another attack.

RESULTS: For labial herpes, the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and mean healing time with honey treatment were 35%, 39%, 28% and 43% better, respectively, than with acyclovir treatment. For genital herpes, the mean duration of attacks and pain, occurrence of crusting, and mean healing time with honey treatment were 53%, 50%, 49% and 59% better, respectively, than with acyclovir. Two cases of labial herpes and one case of genital herpes remitted completely with the use of honey. The lesions crusted in 3 patients with labial herpes and in 4 patients with genital herpes. With acyclovir treatment, none of the attacks remitted, and all the lesions, labial and genital, developed crust. No side effects were observed with repeated applications of honey, whereas 3 patients developed local itching with acyclovir.

CONCLUSIONS: Topical honey application is safe and effective in the management of the signs and symptoms of recurrent lesions from labial and genital herpes.


Related Articles:

Thursday, June 4, 2009

What I ate 06/03/09

breakfast:
a handful of almonds

Lunch:
smoked turkey sandwich on toasted wheat bread with mayo and tomato
No cheese

Dinner:
2 slices of cheese pizza

snack:
a spoonful of rice pudding at 11ish, really wanted some.

Boost Eye Health Through Omega-3 Rich Foods

Boost Eye Health Through Omega-3 Rich Foods
Thursday, May 14 2009 - by SoundHealth
Read more articles at HealthyMuslim.Com

Two new studies have found as association between eating foods high in omega-three fatty acids, and reducing the risk eye diseases like age-related macular degeneration.

In the first study, researchers found that eating foods containing omega-three fatty acids, such as nuts, appeared to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration - the leading cause of blindness in the elderly.

The participants completed a questionnaire about the foods they ate regularly. Digital photographs of the retina were taken at the start of the study and again five and 10 years later to track the development of age-related macular degeneration.

The results showed that after adjusting for other risk factors, people who ate one serving of fish per week had a 31% lower risk of early signs of AMD. Those who ate one to two servings of nuts rich in omega-3 fatty acids had a 35% lower risk.

Age-related macular degeneration is a condition where the central vision is lost as cells at the back of the eye degenerate over time or new blood vessels grow and bleed.

Writing in the Archives of Ophthalmology, one of the authors said: "In conclusion, our findings support the hypothesis that increased intake of omega-three polyunsaturated fatty acids and regular consumption of fish and/or nuts in the diet may protect against the development of early AMD."

It is thought fatty acids may protect the eyes by preventing the build-up of plaque in the arteries or reducing inflammation, blood vessel formation and oxygen-related cell damage in the retina.

The second study, published in the same journal, found that eating a Mediterranean-style diet rich in fish, nuts, and olive oil is also linked to saving your eyesight and helping to prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Researchers found people who ate higher levels of trans fats more often found in baked goods and processed foods were more likely to develop late-stage age-related macular degeneration. In addition, those who ate the most omega-3 fatty acids through olive oil were less likely to have AMD. They concluded that "A diet low in trans-unsaturated fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil may reduce the risk of AMD."

Trans fats have been shown to increase the risk of inflammatory diseases like heart disease, and researchers think that these fats may also have a similar effect on the blood vessels in eyes.

In contrast, olive oil contains heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids along with other beneficial compounds such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components that are associated with helping protect the blood vessels in the eyes and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Research paper details:

  • Tan JSL,Wang JJ, Flood V, Mitchell P. Dietary fatty acids and the 10-Year Incidence of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: The Blue Mountains Eye Study Arch Ophthalmol. 2009;127(5):656-665.

  • Chong EW, Robman LD, Simpson JA, et al. Fat Consumption and Its Association With Age-Related Macular Degeneration Arch Ophthalmol. 2009;127(5):674-680.


Related Articles:

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Tomatoes: The Cancer-Protective Superfood

Tomatoes: The Cancer-Protective Superfood
Tuesday, May 12 2009 - by SoundHealth Read more articles at HealthyMuslim.Com

The tomato is an immensely popular and versatile food that is rich in the vital antioxidant lycopene, which helps fight against cancerous cell formation as well as other kinds of health problems. It also contains many other beneficial nutrients, making it one of the healthiest fruits or vegetables available.

Tomatoes are a fruit from the Solanaceae family, which also includes peppers, potatoes and eggplant.

Tomatoes are rich in Vitamin C and potassium. They are a good source of plant chemicals such as phytosterols, Beta-carotene and lycopene, a potent antioxidant that becomes more abundant when tomatoes are cooked. Tomatoes also contain polyphenols which have been shown effective in halting growth against liver and prostate cancer. They are a good source of Beta-carotene, which is necessary for the production of Vitamin A, a vitamin that plays a vital role in a healthy immune system, and Vitamin E, which helps to protect the body from toxins.

lycopene

Lycopene is the most common carotenoid in the human body and is one of the most potent carotenoid antioxidants. It is also found in other red fruits like watermelon, papaya, pink grapefruit and pink guava.

Studies have demonstrated that lycopene reduces the risk of prostate cancer and also has cardioprotective, antimutagenic, anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Lycopene is so insoluble in water and is so tightly bound to the fiber in fruits and vegetables, that the bioavailability of lycopene is increased by processing. Therefore products such as tomato juice, soup, sauce, and ketchup (preferable home-made), produces the highest concentrations of bioavailable lycopene.

Lycopene has been shown to be more health-protective when consumed with fat-rich foods, such as avocado, olive oil or nuts. This is because carotenoids are fat-soluble, meaning they are absorbed into the body along with fats.

Studies on the health benefits of tomatoes

Cardiovascular disease

To date, the majority of research suggests that tomato products may be more cardioprotective than lycopene alone. In a study in which animals were given either tomato juice or a lycopene supplement, and then had heart damage introduced, only tomato juice was found to reduce heart cell death, damage to the heart and improved heart function. An in vitro study using tomato extract found that tomatoes contain compounds that reduced platelet aggregation (blood stickiness).

Another study found that women with the highest intake of lycopene-rich tomato-based foods had a significantly reduced risk of heart disease.

cancer

Research has found that tomato products have a synergistic effect between lycopene and other naturally occurring nutrients in tomatoes that produced better results than lycopene supplementation alone in reducing risk factors for cancer.

Studies found that tomato intake had a significant protective effect against colorectal and ovarian cancer.

prostate cancer

Subjects who consumed tomato sauce daily for three weeks before the removal of their prostate gland (prostatectomy), had a significant decrease in DNA damage in prostate tissues and an increase in prostate cancer cell death. Further research found an inverse association between higher plasma lycopene derived from plant sources such as tomatoes and lower risk of prostate cancer.

Natural anti-inflammatory

Researchers have reported that a daily glass of tomato juice significantly lowers one of the primary markers of inflammation. The build up of these inflammatory compounds and oxidative stress (the production of excessive amounts of free radicals within cells) have been linked to virtually all chronic degenerative diseases.

Tips for Using Tomatoes

* Opt for organic where possible, as organic tomatoes and tomato products have found to deliver as much as three times the amount of lycopene as non-organic alternatives.

* Aluminium cookware should generally be avoided, and this is especially important when cooking tomatoes, since their high acid content will interact with the metal, resulting in the leeching of toxic aluminium into the food, potentially causing harmful effects on your health.

References

* Guns, E.S. & Cowell, S.P. (2005, January). Drug insight: lycopene in the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer. Nat Clin Pract Urol, 2(1), 38-43.

* Bhuvaneswari, V. & Nagini, S. (2005, November). Lycopene: a review of its potential as an anticancer agent. Current Medicinal Chemistry - Anti-Cancer Agents, 5(6), 627-635.

* Das, S., Otani, H., Maulik, N., & Das, D.K. (2005, April). lycopene, tomatoes, and coronary heart disease. Free Radic Res, 39(4), 449-455.

* Dutta-Roy, A.K., Crosbie, L., & Gordon, M.J. (2001, June). Effects of tomato extract on human platelet aggregation in vitro. Platelets, 12(4), 218-227.

* Basu A.,Imrhan V. Tomatoes versus lycopene in oxidative stress and carcinogenesis: conclusions from clinical trials. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2006 Aug 16;

* Kiani, F., Knutsen, S., Singh, P., Ursin, G., & Fraser, G. (2006, March). Dietary risk factors for ovarian cancer: the Adventist Health Study (United States). Cancer Causes Control, 17(2), 137-146.

* Wu, K., Erdman, J.W. Jr., Schwartz, et al. (2004, February). Plasma and dietary carotenoids, and the risk of prostate cancer: a nested case-control study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev, 13(2), 260-269.


Related Articles:

* Tomatoes: The Cancer-Protective Superfood
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?jvpfc
* Grow Your Way to Health
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?qbnvr
* Nutrients and Superfoods for Healthy Skin
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?teyfk
* Cancer-fighting Benefits of Combining Broccoli and Tomato
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?zjxyq
* Alfalfa Sprouts Salad
http://www.healthymuslim.com/?sbyke