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Spirulina

Spirulina Is Extremely High in Many Nutrients

Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and salt water. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes that are often referred to as blue-green algae. Just like plants, cyanobacteria can produce energy from sunlight via a process called photosynthesis. Spirulina was consumed by the ancient Aztecs but became popular again when NASA proposed that it could be grown in space for use by astronauts.

This tiny alga is packed with nutrients. A single tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains:

  • Protein: 4 grams
  • Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 11% of the RDA
  • Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 15% of the RDA
  • Vitamin B3 (niacin): 4% of the RDA
  • Copper: 21% of the RDA
  • Iron: 11% of the RDA

It also contains decent amounts of magnesium, potassium and manganese and small amounts of almost every other nutrient that you need. In addition, the same amount holds only 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbs. Gram for gram, spirulina may be the single most nutritious food on the planet. A tablespoon (7 grams) of spirulina provides a small amount of fat — around 1 gram — including both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in an approximately 1.5–1.0 ratio. The quality of the protein in spirulina is considered excellent — comparable to eggs. It gives all the essential amino acids that you need. It is often claimed that spirulina contains vitamin B12, but this is false. It has pseudo-vitamin B12, which has not been shown to be effective in humans.

Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and cells. This damage can drive chronic inflammation, which contributes to cancer and other diseases. Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative damage. Its main active component is called phycocyanin. This antioxidant substance also gives spirulina its unique blue-green colour. Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and inhibit production of inflammatory signaling molecules, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Can Lower “Bad” LDL and Triglyceride Levels

Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death. Many risk factors are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. As it turns out, spirulina positively impacts many of these factors. For example, it can lower total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising “good” HDL cholesterol. In a study in 25 people with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina per day significantly improved these markers. Another study in people with high cholesterol determined that 1 gram of spirulina per day lowered triglycerides by 16.3% and “bad” LDL by 10.1%. Several other studies have found favorable effects — though with higher doses of 4.5–8 grams per day.

Protects “Bad” LDL Cholesterol From Oxidation

Fatty structures in your body are susceptible to oxidative damage. This is known as lipid peroxidation, a key driver of many serious diseases. For example, one of the key steps in the development of heart disease is the oxidation of “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Interestingly, the antioxidants in spirulina appear to be particularly effective at reducing lipid peroxidation in both humans and animals.

In a study in 37 people with type 2 diabetes, 8 grams of spirulina per day significantly reduced markers of oxidative damage. It also increased levels of antioxidant enzymes in the blood.

May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

Some evidence suggests that spirulina has anti-cancer properties. Research in animals indicates that it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size. Spirulina’s effects on oral cancer — or cancer of the mouth — have been particularly well studied. One study examined 87 people from India with precancerous lesions — called oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) — in the mouth. Among those who took 1 gram of spirulina per day for one year, 45% saw their lesions disappear — compared to only 7% in the control group. When these people stopped taking spirulina, almost half of them redeveloped lesions in the following year. In another study of 40 individuals with OSMF lesions, 1 gram of spirulina per day led to greater improvement in OSMF symptoms than the drug Pentoxyfilline.

May Reduce Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a main driver of many serious diseases, including heart attacks, strokes and chronic kidney disease. While 1 gram of spirulina is ineffective, a dose of 4.5 grams per day has been shown to reduce blood pressure in individuals with normal levels. This reduction is thought to be driven by an increased production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps your blood vessels relax and dilate.

Improves Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is characterised by inflammation in your nasal passageways. It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair or even wheat dust. Spirulina is a popular alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and there is evidence that it can be effective. In one study in 127 people with allergic rhinitis, 2 grams per day dramatically reduced symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching.

May Be Effective Against Anaemia

There are many different forms of anaemia. The most common one is characterised by a reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood. Anemia is fairly common in older adults, leading to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue.

In a study in 40 older people with a history of anaemia, spirulina supplements increased the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improved immune function. Keep in mind that this is just one study. More research is needed before any recommendations can be made.

May Improve Muscle Strength and Endurance

Exercise-induced oxidative damage is a major contributor to muscle fatigue. Certain plant foods have antioxidant properties that can help athletes and physically active individuals minimise this damage. Spirulina appears beneficial, as some studies pointed to improved muscle strength and endurance. In two studies, spirulina enhanced endurance, significantly increasing the time it took for people to become fatigued.

May Aid Blood Sugar Control

Animal studies link spirulina to significantly lower blood sugar levels. In some cases, it has outperformed popular diabetes drugs, including Metformin. There is also some evidence that spirulina can be effective in humans. In a two-month study in 25 people with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina per day led to an impressive reduction in blood sugar levels.

HbA1c, a marker for long-term blood sugar levels, decreased from 9% to 8%, which is substantial. Studies estimate that a 1% reduction in this marker can lower the risk of diabetes-related death by 21%.

However, this study was small and short in duration. More studies are necessary.

 

The Bottom Line

Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green algae — that is incredibly healthy. It may improve your levels of blood lipids, suppress oxidation, reduce blood pressure and lower blood sugar.

While more research is needed before any strong claims can be made, spirulina may be one of the few superfoods worthy of the title.

If you want to give this supplement a try, it is available in our online store at http://backup.troopharm.com/product/holland-barrett-spirulina-500mg/

 

Written by: Omojo Emeje

Source: Healthline

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Let’s talk about spinach!

Did you know??

Spinach is notable amongst other green leafy vegetables. It is a low-calorie food full of nutrients that are good for your body in several ways. From strengthening the immune system, to building body defense, to supporting your cardiovascular health, to cutting off risk of iron deficiency, to fighting free radicals, to wound healing, and to so many more.

Spinach also helps increase water in the body. You might really think drinking water is the only way to keep the body hydrated. But food rich in water can help you reach that goal too. Spinach is a vegetable that’s nearly all water.

Add spinach to your diet and your body will tell you! ?

 

Written by: Chiamaka Nwoko.

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Cranberry and its healthy benefits!

Cranberry ? is a small, hard, round, red fruit with a flavor that may be described as both bitter and sour. It is a popular super food that can be consumed in form of sauce or a juice. Cranberry is considered a super food due to its high nutrients and antioxidant content.
They’re also high in anthocyanins. These are the compounds that gives cranberry their dark color and they have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. They also
– Protect against liver disease.
– Improve eyesight ? .
– Improve cardiovascular health.
– Lowers blood pressure.

Nutrients in cranberry help to lower risk of urinary tract infection (UTI). This includes children or women who get them often.
UTI is a bladder infection that may cause pelvic pain, increased urge to urinate, pain with urination, blood in urine, foul smelling urine, cloudy urine, sense of incomplete bladder emptying etc.

Cranberry can also help with gut health. It can help put good bacteria back into your digestive system. They also reduce bile acids in the gut that have a link to colon and gastrointestinal cancer.

Cranberry extract is a great option for people who want to experience some of the health benefits of cranberries without having to eat them everyday.

In conclusion, cranberry extract is worth trying for those who get frequent urinary tract infection (UTI)!

 

Written by: Chiamaka Nwoko.

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Biotin Benefits

Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is one of the B complex vitamins that helps the body convert food into energy.
The word “Biotin” comes from the ancient Greek words “Biotos” which means Life or sustenance. B vitamins and specifically biotin, help keep your skin, hair, eyes, liver and nervous system healthy.
Biotin is also a crucial nutrient during pregnancy, as it’s important for embryonic growth.

Biotin is also known as vitamin B-7. It forms fatty acids and glucose. It also helps metabolise carbohydrates and Amino acids and it aids in breaking down fats in the body.

They are several systems that biotin helps keep healthy.
1). The liver.
2). The eyes.
3). The nails.
4). Nervous system and more.

Biotin maybe effective in treating certain medical conditions such as
1). Hypoglycemia
2). Hyperpidemia
3). Glucose control.

Who needs biotin?
– Diabetics: it helps to metabolize carbohydrates.
– Obese are people with high cholesterol it helps to breakdown fat.
-.Beauty conscious people: it boosts skin, nails, hair and appearance.

Negative side effect.
Low level of biotin can cause thinning of the hair and rash around the eyes, nose and mouth. Other symptoms include depression, lack of interest, hallucinations and tingling in the arms and legs.

Normal dose of biotin1000ug.
1- 2 tablets daily.
14- 18years 25mcg
19years up 30mcg
Pregnant woman 30mcg /day
Breastfeeding woman 35mcg / day.

 

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Written by: Blessing Atabo.

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Cherry Chocolate Pancake

Ingredients

2 Cups all-purpose flour
2 Tablespoons sugar
1/2 Teaspoon salt
1/2 Teaspoon baking powder
1/2 Teaspoon baking soda
2 large eggs
1/2 Cup buttermilk
1 cup milk
3 Tablespoons melted butter
20 (apprx.) cherries, defrosted and halved (or you can use fresh)
4-6 ounces milk chocolate, crumbled or just buy chocolate chips. You could use dark chocolate.

Whipped Cream

1 Cup whipping cream
1 Tablespoon sugar
1/2 Teaspoon vanilla

Directions

1) Whip the whipping cream ingredients to make a fresh whip cream. Refrigerate upon completion.

2) Combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl and then whisk in the wet ingredients which you should mix together separately.

3) Let pancake batter rest for 10-15 minutes in the fridge. Prep the cherries and chocolate.

4) Heat up some butter or oil in the pan or on the griddle over medium-high heat. When it is hot, add a few tablespoons of batter and cook a small pancake. The batter should spread out evenly. If it stays in one spot, the batter is too thick and you need to add more milk. If it runs all over the pan, it is too thin and you need to whisk in some more flour.

5) Pour the pancake (1/2 cup), and then after it has been cooking for 1 minute (it will start to set up), sprinkle cherries and chocolate on top.

6) When you start to see good sized bubbles forming on the surface of the batter, the edges around the pancake start to firm up and you’ll be able to easily maneuver a spatula under it, flip the pancake.

7) The first side will need probably 3-4 minutes and the second side will only need one or two minutes.

8) Top with a little whipped cream and syrup and you are in heaven.

 

Written by Omojo Emeje

Source: Macheesmo

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Great Smoothies Recipes For a Lovely Weekend!

Pina Colada Protein Smoothie

INGREDIENTS
1 can coconut milk
1 banana
2/3 c. frozen pineapple
1/3 c. Frozen Mango
1 scoop Protein powder
Pineapple wedge, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
  1. Combine coconut milk, banana, pineapple, mango and protein powder in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
  2. Garnish with a wedge of pineapple and serve.

Super-fruit Smoothie

INGREDIENTS
1 c. frozen cherries
1 kiwi, peeled and chopped (reserve 2 slices for garnish)
1 c. almond milk
1 tbsp. chia seeds
DIRECTIONS
  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
  2. Pour into 2 glasses and garnish with kiwi.

Easy Banana Smoothie

INGREDIENTS
2 small bananas (or 1 large)
1 c. ice
3/4 c. unsweetened almond milk
1/4 c. plain yogurt
1 tbsp. flaxseed
2 tsp. honey
DIRECTIONS
  1. Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.

Sunshine Daydream Smoothie

INGREDIENTS
1 c. frozen strawberries
1/2 c. frozen peaches
1 c. plain yogurt
1/2 c. coconut water
1 fresh strawberry, for garnish
DIRECTIONS
  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.
  2. Pour into 2 glasses and garnish each with half a strawberry.

 

Written by: Omojo Emeje

Source: Delish

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Thai Fried Rice

Fried remains the best thing to do with leftover rice. The slightly dried out rice will absorbed more of the flavors and crisp up slightly as is cooks. Something fresh rice could never do. Rather than soy sauce like a traditional Chinese fried rice would use, Thai fried rice uses fish sauce. A sauce called, prik nam pla, which is fish sauce and Thai red chilis, is used in the dish and served along with it as an additional garnish. Mix the sauce together before prepping the rest of your ingredients to give it time to develop flavor.

INGREDIENTS
2-3 Thai red chilis, thinly sliced
3 tbsp. fish sauce
2 tbsp. vegetable oil, divided
2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 green onions, white and light green parts cut into 1″ pieces
1 tsp. freshly minced ginger
4 c. cooked white rice, preferably day old
3 tbsp. oyster sauce
2 large eggs, beaten
Freshly chopped cilantro, for serving
Lime wedges, for serving
DIRECTIONS
  1. In a small bowl, combine chilis and fish sauce. Set aside while you prep the rest of your ingredients.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon oil. Add chicken and cook, tossing occasionally, until cooked through, about 5 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate to keep warm. Drain skillet, if needed.
  3. Return skillet over medium-high heat and heat remaining tablespoon oil. Add carrots and cook until softened, 3 minutes. Add garlic, green onions, and ginger and cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Add rice, 3 tablespoons of the fish sauce mixture, and oyster sauce. Toss until rice is well coated, then push rice to one side of pan.
  4. On the empty side of the pan, add a little more oil if your pan is dry. Add beaten eggs and scramble with a rubber spatula until just barely set, then combine with rice. Return chicken to skillet and stir to combine.
  5. Serve with cilantro, lime wedges, and any remaining fish sauce.

 

Written by: Omojo Emeje

Source of recipe: Delish

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5-Ingredient Shrimp Stir Fry

This recipe is super versatile and can be suited to whatever your tastes are. Swap the sweet chili garlic sauce for your favorite brand of hoisin, oyster sauce, sweet and sour sauce or pad thai sauce. As long as you stick to the package directions, feel free to sub in any stir-fry friendly noodle your heart desires. The snow peas aren’t mandatory either! Other quick cooking veggies like sliced asparagus or chopped bok choy would shine here as well. Don’t be afraid to go fridge diving for fun things to add!

INGREDIENTS
8 oz. rice linguini noodles
8 oz. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/4 c. plus 1 tbsp. sweet chili sauce, divided
8 oz. snow peas, sliced on the diagonal
2 tbsp. Canola oil, divided
DIRECTIONS
  1. Bring 3-4 quarts of water to a boil and remove from heat. Place rice linguine noodles in a large metal or glass bowl and cover in hot water for 25 minutes, stirring with a fork frequently to break up any noodle clumps. After about 15 minutes water should be cool enough to pull out and separate any clumped noodles.
  2. Rinse shrimp and place on a paper towel lined plate. Pat dry and season with salt and pepper on both sides. Add shrimp and 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce to a container with a lid. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes and up to overnight.
  3. Drain and rinse noodles and return to the bowl. Gather your ingredients (noodles, shrimp, remaining 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce, and snow peas) in bowls and place on a sheet tray next to the stove.
  4. Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon oil and swirl in pan to coat. When you see the first wisp of smoke, add shrimp and cook until they begin to turn pink, 1 minute each side. The sugars in the sweet chili sauce should caramelize just a little bit and create tasty bits in the pan.
  5. Make space in the middle of the pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon oil and sliced snow peas and cook 2 minutes. Add prepared noodles and ¼ cup of sweet chili sauce. Continue to cook until noodles are coated and heated through, about 4 to 6 minutes. Serve immediately.

 

Written by: Omojo Emeje

Source of recipe: Delish

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Benefits of Aloe vera gel on the face

Aloe Vera is a common household plant known for its skin healing properties. It is a cactus-like plant. Its leave produces a gel that is rich in vitamins like A, C, E, and B12.

Due to its health, beauty, medicinal and skincare properties, Aloe Vera has been regarded as the universal panacea because it contains anti-fungal, anti-viral, and cell regenerative properties.
The clear gel-like substance inside the leaves of the plant, popularly known as ALOE VERA GEL, contains 75 potentially active constituents – vitamins, enzymes, minerals, sugars, lignin, saponius, salicylic acid and amino acids.

BENEFITS
– It moisturizes dry skin.
– It soothes sunburn ?
– Relieves eczema and psoriasis.
– It helps in relieving skin irritation.
– It helps to exfoliate the skin due to the presence of salicylic acid.
– It treats mouth sores.
– It slows down the signs of aging (Anti-aging properties).
– It helps to fight Acne and fades blemishes.

 

Written by Chiamaka Alexandra

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What you should know about CBD Oil!

Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is a product that’s derived from cannabis. It’s a type of cannabinoid, which are the chemicals naturally found in marijuana plants. Even though it comes from marijuana plants, CBD doesn’t create a “high” effect or any form of intoxication — that’s caused by another cannabinoid, known as THC.

There’s some controversy around cannabis products like CBD oil because of recreational marijuana use. But there’s growing awareness about the possible health benefits of CBD oil. Here’s what you need to know about six potential medical uses of CBD and where the research stands:

1. Anxiety relief

CBD may be able to help you manage anxiety. Researchers think it may change the way your brain’s receptors respond to serotonin, a chemical linked to mental health. Receptors are tiny proteins attached to your cells that receive chemical messages and help your cells respond to different stimuli.

One study found that a 600mg dose of CBD helped people with social anxiety give a speech. Other early studies done with animals have shown that CBD may help relieve anxiety by:

  • reducing stress
  • decreasing physiological effects of anxiety, such as an increased heart rate
  • improving symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • inducing sleep in cases of insomnia

2. Anti-seizure

CBD has been in the news before, as a possible treatment for epilepsy. Research is still in its early days. Researchers are testing how much CBD is able to reduce the number of seizures in people with epilepsy, as well as how safe it is. The American Epilepsy Society states that cannabidiol research offers hope for seizure disorders, and that research is currently being conducted to better understand safe use.

A study from 2016 worked with 214 people with epilepsy. The study participants added oral doses of 2 to 5mg of CBD per day to their existing anti-epilepsy medications. The study’s researchers monitored the participants for 12 weeks, recording any negative side effects and checking on the frequency of their seizures. Overall, participants had 36.5 percent fewer seizures per month. However, severe adverse effects were recorded in 12 percent of the participants.

3. Neuroprotective

Researchers are looking at a receptor located in the brain to learn about the ways that CBD could help people with neurodegenerative disorders, which are diseases that cause the brain and nerves to deteriorate over time. This receptor is known as CB1.

Researchers are studying the use of CBD oil for treating:

  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • stroke

CBD oil may also reduce the inflammation that can make neurodegenerative symptoms worse. More research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD oil for neurodegenerative diseases.

4. Pain relief

The effects of CBD oil on your brain’s receptors may also help you manage pain. Studies have shown that cannabis can offer some benefits when taken after chemotherapy treatments. Other pre-clinical studies sponsored by the National Institutes of Health are also looking at the role of cannabis in relieving symptoms caused by:

  • arthritis
  • chronic pain
  • MS pain
  • muscle pain
  • spinal cord injuries

5. Anti-acne

The effects of CBD on receptors in the immune system may help reduce overall inflammation in the body. In turn, CBD oil may offer benefits for acne management. A human study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that the oil prevented activity in sebaceous glands. These glands are responsible for producing sebum, a natural oily substance that hydrates the skin. Too much sebum, however, can lead to acne.

Before you consider CBD oil for acne treatment, it’s worth discussing with your dermatologist. More human studies are needed to evaluate the potential benefits of CBD for acne.

6. Cancer treatment

Some studies have investigated the role of CBD in preventing cancer cell growth, but research is still in its early stages. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says that CBD may help alleviate cancer symptoms and cancer treatment side effects. However, the NCI doesn’t fully endorse any form of cannabis as a cancer treatment. The action of CBD that’s promising for cancer treatment is its ability to moderate inflammation and change how cell reproduce. CBD has the effect of reducing the ability of some types of tumor cells to reproduce.

CBD oil side effects

CBD oil usually doesn’t have any major risks for users. However, side effects are possible. These include:

  • depression
  • dizziness
  • hallucinations
  • low blood pressure
  • withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability and insomnia

More human studies are needed to fully understand the range of risks and side effects that CBD oil may cause. Studies of CBD oil aren’t common. This is partially because Schedule 1 substances like cannabis are highly regulated, causing some obstacles for researchers. With the legalization of marijuana products, more research is possible, and more answers will come.

 

Written by: Blessing Atabo

Source: Healthline.

 

Feel free to purchase yours today at http://backup.troopharm.com/product/cbd-750-oil-cinnamon/

 

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