A study published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science shows that chemical compounds in green tea and other plant-based foods can block the activity of a key enzyme in the replication of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Researchers at North Carolina State University (NC State) found that many polyphenols in these foods are able to inhibit the function of “main protease” (Mpro) … Continue reading Green tea compounds block key enzyme that allows coronavirus to replicate – study
Researchers identify the compounds responsible for Anacardium occidentale’s (cashew) anti-asthma effects
Researchers from Nigeria investigated the bioactive constituents of Anacardium occidentale, also known as cashew, and evaluated its effects on histamine-induced paw edema and bronchoconstriction. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Integrative Medicine. The leaves of A. occidentale have long been used for the treatment of inflammation and asthma, but the bioactive components responsible … Continue reading Researchers identify the compounds responsible for Anacardium occidentale’s (cashew) anti-asthma effects
Fatty fish free of environmental pollutants helps prevent Type 2 diabetes: Study
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition shows that fatty fish free of environmental pollutants may reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes. Researchers based in Sweden and Finland assessed the diet of study participants using a novel technique called mass spectrometry-based metabolomics. This allowed them to investigate the effects of fatty fish independent of compounding factors … Continue reading Fatty fish free of environmental pollutants helps prevent Type 2 diabetes: Study
3 Uncommon but nutrient-rich superfoods you need to eat more of
Superfoods like kale, blueberries and quinoa are as healthy as they are popular. But many kinds of superfoods are often overlooked in favor of trendy health foods. For a healthier diet, try any of these three obscure but nutrient-dense superfoods: Radicchio (Cichorium intybus var. foliosum) Radicchio is a leafy vegetable that belongs to the chicory family. It generally resembles a … Continue reading 3 Uncommon but nutrient-rich superfoods you need to eat more of
An essential dietary component for immune health: Natural sources of vitamin C
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble micronutrient found in a wide range of plant-based foods. Considered a vital nutrient for overall health, vitamin C plays a key role in various bodily functions. For instance, vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissues, as well as the absorption of iron. It also fortifies the immune … Continue reading An essential dietary component for immune health: Natural sources of vitamin C
Compounds in celery found to reduce cholesterol and prevent tumor growth in animal study
The Apiaceae (umbellifers) family consists of mostly edible, flowering and aromatic plants, such as carrots, parsley, anise, coriander, Queen Anne’s lace, parsnip and celery. They are some of the most extensively studied edible plants on the planet because of their abundance of medicinal components, which give them various beneficial properties. Celery, for instance, contains apigenin, a compound that can stimulate … Continue reading Compounds in celery found to reduce cholesterol and prevent tumor growth in animal study
Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
Researchers at the Federal University of Technology in Nigeria evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of garlic, white onion and purple onion on the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a-amylase and a-glucosidase in vitro. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements. Spices are used in cooking and serve as ingredients in several traditional … Continue reading Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
7 Vitamins and nutrients that promote eye health
Contrary to popular belief, poor vision and eye diseases are not inevitable consequences of aging. Maintaining healthy levels of nutrients essential for eye health can keep your eyes sharp even as you age and guard against vision loss. Recent studies have linked many nutrients to a reduced risk of eye conditions and poor vision. These nutrients … Continue reading 7 Vitamins and nutrients that promote eye health
Understanding how niacin treats high cholesterol levels
Niacin is a B vitamin commonly used by your body to turn food into energy. It is also known as vitamin B3 and helps keep your nervous system, digestive system and skin healthy. As a supplement, niacin may help ease arthritis, boost brain function and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, among many other benefits. Studies also show that niacin can improve … Continue reading Understanding how niacin treats high cholesterol levels
Study reveals vitamin C is key for stroke prevention and promoting heart health
Strokes are some of the most common medical conditions in the United States. So common, in fact, that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year. Of these cases, 610,000 are classified as first or new strokes, while 185,000 — or nearly 1 of 4—are … Continue reading Study reveals vitamin C is key for stroke prevention and promoting heart health
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 