Showing posts with label super. Show all posts
Showing posts with label super. Show all posts
Top Super Brain Foods For Kids
Friday, May 9, 2014
We all know that we need to eat the right diet for the good of our physical health. As a student of self development and a pursuer of knowledge, the study of the human brain is a fascinating area for you to focus on. Studies prove time and time again that there is a great positive correlation with the types of foods children eat and their mood, attention spans, behavior, and test scores.
Children in their growing years need proper food for their overall growth as well as for their brain development. The foods consumed by children affect their learning skills and improves their ability to concentrate. Studies have found that food containing essential nutrients and vitamins has the ability to boost the brain power. Below are top super "brain foods" that may help boost a childs brain development and growth.
1. Eggs
Eggs offer protein, and theyre one of the few foods that naturally contain vitamin D, which helps the body absorb calcium. Eating protein at breakfast helps kids feel satisfied longer (no mid-morning hunger). Eggs contain protein and nutrients like omega -3 fatty acid, choline, Zinc and lutein. These nutrients are necessary for brain development and function. Choline present in egg is vital for the formation of memory stem cells. The more the stem cells, the better will be the memory power. Choline rich foods promote memory cell production throughout the childhood.
How To Serve?
How To Serve?
• It can be served as boiled eggs or omelets or as scrambled eggs.
• If your child hates eggs disguise them in toast with whole grain breads.
• You can use scrambled eggs to fill in tortillas as a snack.
How To Serve?
How To Serve?
Fish provide a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. According to an article in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," omega-3s account for 40 percent of the fatty acids in brain membranes and have a significant effect on cognitive function and growth. The most abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel. In addition to following a balanced diet, consuming these foods at least twice a week will provide adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
How To Serve?
Water is a highly overlooked food for children. School going children drink very little water and this can affect the proper brain function. When the children get dehydrated after playing they will be irritable and lethargic and will not be in a frame of mind to listen or memorize.
How To Serve?
15) Cereals
Even if your child had a bowl for breakfast, fortified whole grain cereals are a snack thats rich in folate, complex carbs, and easy-to-access protein. Fortified cereals are also a great source of vitamin B12, linked to how well we remember things, reports the National Institutes of Health.
How To Serve?
• If your child hates eggs disguise them in toast with whole grain breads.
• You can use scrambled eggs to fill in tortillas as a snack.
2. Berries
Berries like blueberries and strawberries are high in antioxidants. These antioxidants are expected to improve the cognitive skills in humans. This food will improve the memory power and the vitamin C present in the berries will improve the immune system as well. The antioxidants prevent the oxidative stress on brain function.
How To Serve?
- Apply penut butter on bread slices and keep sliced berries in between to make a brain power house.
- Add different types of berries to the cereals or oatmeal
- You can add them in fruit salads or other desserts
3. Oatmeal
Research shows that kids who eat oatmeal are better able to concentrate and pay attention in school. Fiber-rich whole grains, like oatmeal, digest slowly, providing kids with a steady stream of energy. Oatmeal is rich in fiber and protein and helps to keep the arteries of the brain and heart clear.
It has been found that children who eat oatmeal were better at memory tasks and map skills. Oatmeal digests slowly and provides the kids with a steady supply of energy for a long time.
How To Serve?
- Add raisins, dried apricot or walnuts to the cooked oatmeal to make it more appealing.
- Serve your kids oatmeal topped with sliced fruit for a well-rounded and healthy breakfast.
- Do not add sugar; instead use honey or maple syrup to sweeten the oatmeal.
4. Nuts
Nuts and nut butter have long been known for their protein, but they also provide essential nutrients for the brain. Researchers have linked tree nuts to a decreased risk of many diseases. Now there’s evidence that they also improve cognition.
Most of the nuts have high concentrations of vitamin E, B vitamins, antioxidants, magnesium, minerals and Omega-3s. All support the nervous system. The walnut’s shape resembles a brain, so why shouldnt it be a brain food? Almonds may help save your memory. As these are filled with vitamin E. Vitamin E has been linked to improved brain performance.
Nuts and nut butter have long been known for their protein, but they also provide essential nutrients for the brain. Researchers have linked tree nuts to a decreased risk of many diseases. Now there’s evidence that they also improve cognition.
Most of the nuts have high concentrations of vitamin E, B vitamins, antioxidants, magnesium, minerals and Omega-3s. All support the nervous system. The walnut’s shape resembles a brain, so why shouldnt it be a brain food? Almonds may help save your memory. As these are filled with vitamin E. Vitamin E has been linked to improved brain performance.
How To Serve?
How To Serve?
6. Fish- Explore different types of nut butters and pair them with sliced fruit or whole grain bread, or blend them into a smoothie.
- Make a paste and apply on toast.
- put a teaspoon of powdered nuts in a glass of milk.
- Make a sandwich by applying almond butter on wholegrain breads and keep some sliced apple in between.
They are a rich source of complex carbohydrates and hence helps to maintain an even glucose level in the blood throughout the day. The brain needs a constant source of fuel, in the form of glucose, to properly function. Grains are a source of glucose and whole grains provide fiber, which helps to slow down the release of glucose into the body. As a result, the brain receives a steady supply of fuel for a longer period of time. Whole grain breads, pastas and cereals are good sources.
How To Serve?
- You can use whole grain breads for breakfast or for making sandwiches
- Whole grain cookies can be used as snacks.
- Research has shown that kids who eat a proper whole grain breakfast do better in their academics and has less behavioral problems.
Fish provide a healthy dose of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. According to an article in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition," omega-3s account for 40 percent of the fatty acids in brain membranes and have a significant effect on cognitive function and growth. The most abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel. In addition to following a balanced diet, consuming these foods at least twice a week will provide adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids.
How To Serve?
- Make the fish child-friendly by creating tuna or salmon salad sandwiches using fat-free mayonnaise, cranberries and diced walnuts. Serve it on whole wheat bread or crackers.
- It is better to avoid deep fried fish as this will remove the nutrients, serve them grilled or roasted
- If your child is reluctant to eat fish, try fish oil supplements
Greens, such as spinach and kale, pack an immune boosting punch with their vitamin A and C. The vitamin B-12 and folate in spinach improves brain health and the maintenance of cognitive functioning, including memory. Kale is rich in manganese, a trace mineral that helps synthesize fatty acids critical to healthy brain function.
How to serve?
- Try Kale chips, and spinach brownies to give kids a nutrient boost in foods they like!
- Use them in salads or sprinkle finely cut on an omelet or use them smoothies.
8) Beans
Beans are an affordable and delicious source of protein and complex carbohydrates. This combination helps provide the brain with a steady source of fuel and vital nutrients. Beans contain vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and tryptophan, which can influence and preserve brain function.
How to serve
How to serve
- Try adding beans to a wrap, soup, pasta sauce or chili. Bean dips are a great way to spice up raw veggies for an after school snack.
- Puree chickpeas, lentils or white kidney beans with some garlic, lemon and extra virgin olive oil for a brain healthy dip for snacks.
9) Milk
Protein and calcium in dairy products provide fuel for the brain and body. Protein helps build brain tissue, while milks calcium keeps kids bones and teeth strong. Milk is a well known source of protein, vitamin D, and phosphorus. But calcium also affects how our bodies regulate energy, Calcium plays an important role in the bodys production of insulin, Unless there is true lactose intolerance, it should be a nonnegotiable part of your childs diet. Bonus: A diet rich in low-fat dairy seems to protect children from obesity.
How to serve?
How to serve?
- Turn up the appeal To make milk tempting, just add chocolate or strawberry syrup.
10) Tomatoes
Theyre loaded with lycopene -- a substance that protects against many cancers. Cooking tomatoes makes them even healthier because the heat releases the lycopene. Pairing tomato containing foods with a good fat, like olive oil, helps the body absorb more.
Theyre loaded with lycopene -- a substance that protects against many cancers. Cooking tomatoes makes them even healthier because the heat releases the lycopene. Pairing tomato containing foods with a good fat, like olive oil, helps the body absorb more.
How to serve?
- Use in pizza and pasta sauces are obvious choices.
- Add tomato sauce to turkey meatballs or meatloaf if you need to disguise it. A bowl of chili and salsa for dipping are good options if youve got a spice lover.
11. Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a good source of protein, healthy fat and vitamin B. It contains healthy bacteria known to boost immunity and aid digestion. The fat present in yoghurt is very necessary for brain health. This fat keeps the brain cell membranes flexible and helps in sending and receiving information by the brain cells.
How To Serve?
Yoghurt is a good source of protein, healthy fat and vitamin B. It contains healthy bacteria known to boost immunity and aid digestion. The fat present in yoghurt is very necessary for brain health. This fat keeps the brain cell membranes flexible and helps in sending and receiving information by the brain cells.
How To Serve?
- You can use flavored yoghurts as desserts
- Add a drizzle of honey (after age 1) for sweetness, a bit of maple syrup, or try a squeeze of agave syrup .
- You can serve yoghurt with berries on top for breakfast.
12) Dark chocolate
If given in moderation, dark chocolate can promote brain health. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants than blueberries and natural cocoa rates higher than raspberries and blackberries for these key nutrients. The antioxidants in chocolate protect brain cells from damaging free radicals and improve cognitive function. Choose dark chocolate with a higher percentage of cocoa, which typically means a lower amount of sugar. How to serve?
- Pair a small serving of dark chocolate with fruit for a healthy afternoon snack.
- pair with milk or yoghurt
Avocado is loaded with healthy fats and a good dose of vitamin E. The consistency of this fruit is also great for babies beginning to eat solids and can be mixed with milk too.
How to serve?
- Serve as mashed food that will enhance your baby’s health,
- Mix wit milk or smoothie
Water is a highly overlooked food for children. School going children drink very little water and this can affect the proper brain function. When the children get dehydrated after playing they will be irritable and lethargic and will not be in a frame of mind to listen or memorize.
How To Serve?
- Offer water along with every meal
- Make sure that they have access to good drinking water when they are in school.
15) Cereals
Even if your child had a bowl for breakfast, fortified whole grain cereals are a snack thats rich in folate, complex carbs, and easy-to-access protein. Fortified cereals are also a great source of vitamin B12, linked to how well we remember things, reports the National Institutes of Health.
How To Serve?
- Instead of serving it plain, try mixing some whole grain cereal with raisins and peanuts to improve the nutrient value.
- Avoid cereals with added sugar
Super Nutrients Extend Telomere Length to Extend Cellular Age
Friday, May 2, 2014
Many factors are known to contribute to human lifespan. Many natural health followers caully control their diet to include organic choices of fruits and vegetables in their natural, uncooked state, while remaining physically active and maintaining body weight within a healthy range. The science of how lifestyle habits and nutrition promote health and longevity, known as Epigenetics, has dramatically advanced our knowledge base by providing a solid understanding of telomeres, the tiny strands of DNA akin to a zipper that shorten with poor dietary choices, inflammation and everyday stress.
Researchers reporting in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistryshow that reducing oxidative stress, cellular inflammation and improving DNA methylation pathways can extend telomere length and slow the biologic aging clock. Specific nutrients provide the necessary building blocks to support DNA health and extend your natural lifespan.
Targeted Nutrients and Foods Increase DNA Methylation to Maintain Telomere Length
Genetic expression is not set in stone, and our genes are continually under the influence of our environment, lifestyle and dietary choices. Gene settings are made initially from our time in the womb, based largely on the nutritional status and lifestyle of the mother. As we age, our genes instantly read micronutrient and environmental cues in an effort to ensure short term survival. Every morsel of food energy we consume results in an alteration in gene expression, either promoting optimal health or eventual illness.
The methylation pathway is critical to maintain DNA integrity and prevent telomere shortening. Foods and nutrients that donate methyl groups are essential to prevent genetic mutations that result in cancer. Researchers reporting in The Journal of Nutrition found that men with the highest levels of folate in their blood have the longest telomeres when compared to those with the lowest levels. In addition to folate (800 mcg each day), vitamin B12 (500 to 1000 mcg daily) and the entire B-vitamin family are associated with longer telomeres. Sulfur-enriched proteins from nuts and seeds are also important methyl group donors.
Zinc and Magnesium Essential to DNA Health and Anti-Aging Effects
Independent researchprojects have concluded that the minerals zinc (25 to 50 mg per day) and magnesium (400 to 800 mg each day) are necessary to accurately complete DNA sequencing during cell replication. A lack of these cofactors leads to DNA strand breakage, premature cell destruction and acceleration of the aging process. Vitamin C (1 to 3 grams per day) has been shown to slow the loss of telomeres in human vascular endothelial cells, an important element in preventing cardiovascular disease. Vitamin E tocotrienols (400 mg per day of a full-spectrum supplement) have been shown to restore the length of telomeres while reducing DNA damage, making it possible for a nutrient to reverse the shortening of telomeres and reverse an underlying cause of aging.
Stress and inflammation are two controllable factors that independently shorten telomere length and increase cell aging. Stress management is essential to lower the release of chemical messengers that fuel the flames of inflammation. Additionally, researchers have identified a host of polyphenol compounds (resveratrol, grape seed extract and curcumin) that lower systemic inflammation, help to maintain telomere length and extend healthy lifespan.
Pomegranate and Super Nutrients Assist Weight Loss
Monday, April 21, 2014
(Article first published as Pomegranate and Natural Nutrients Can Help Prevent Weight Gain on Technorati.)
As the rate of overweight and obese individuals continues to rise with no end in sight, there’s good news emerging about the power of natural nutrients such as pomegranate that act on a genetic level to halt the accumulation of abdominal fat. Many people are aware that they need to lose weight but can’t seem to make the necessary lifestyle and dietary adjustments that will help them achieve their goal. Pomegranate and other natural nutrients may provide the key as they can be used to compliment healthy diet and physical activity toward your weight loss goal.
Pomegranate is truly a super nutrient as it has been shown to clear dangerous blood fats known as triglycerides before they are converted to a form of fat which can be stored in our fat cells. This is important because lowered triglycerides have been shown to reduce the risk for heart disease and death from a heart attack.
Resveratrol has gained acclaim as a super nutrient that has been shown to function at the genetic level by influencing genes known as SIRT’s which we have evolved through a sophisticated mechanism designed to keep us alive during times of famine. Our survival genes have the opposite effect when we overeat, as they fuel the aging process and no longer effectively protect us from disease.
Pomegranate Shown to Reduce Belly Fat
Excess triglycerides form in the blood in response to a diet high in ined, processed carbohydrates and hydrogenated fats. The results of a study performed at the University of Edinburgh and reported by the Daily Mail confirms that pomegranate consumption for a period of 30 days was sufficient to lower the risk of developing fatty cells around the abdomen. Researchers note that this type of fat accumulation is the most dangerous type as it causes the release of stress hormones which fuel inflammation and promote heart disease.
Resveratrol Mimics Calorie Restriction
Resveratrol is one of the few nutrients which can directly regulate the SIRT genes and mimic calorie restriction without having to eat less. This powerful compound found in the skin of red grapes switches the genes that control the release of dangerous chemical messengers from our fat cells in response to excess weight, and naturally promotes weight loss when combined with a reduced calorie diet.
Quercetin Lowers Systemic Inflammation
The fat cells of overweight and obese individuals is metabolically active and releases a steady stream of chemical messengers known as cytokines which circulate throughout the body and lead to chronically elevated levels of inflammation. This dangerous condition makes weight loss much more difficult and also is a known risk factor for heart disease and cancer.
Quercetin is a natural agent found in many fruits and vegetables that has a demonstrated ability to lower inflammatory cytokines by acting directly on the genes that produce these damaging compounds. By damping the flames of inflammation, quercetin is able to reduce the risk of many deadly diseases and assists natural weight loss by creating an environment which encourages fat metabolism.
Nature has provided a host of natural nutrients which we can combine with healthy diet and physical activity to improve health and achieve our weight loss goals. Pomegranate is the latest addition to the list of powerful nutrients that have been shown to regulate our genes and influence our ability to burn stored fat.
Super Food for Your Bones
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Strong Bones: Yours to Keep
Our bones remain strong throughout young adulthood. As we hit middle age, they slowly begin to thin out. In women, this process accelerates after menopause, but there are ways to put on the brakes. One of the best lines of defense is your diet -- eating the right foods can give you the maximum peak bone mass and boost your bone density at any age.
Got Milk?
Calcium is the cornerstone of strong bones. Adults younger than 50 need 1,000 milligrams per day, and people over 50 need 1,200 milligrams a day. The pop star of calcium sources is undoubtedly milk. A single 8-ounce cup of milk, whether skim, low-fat, or whole, has 300 milligrams of calcium.
Yogurt and Cheese
Not a milk drinker? A cup of yogurt has at least as much calcium as an 8-ounce cup of milk. And one ounce of Swiss cheese has nearly as much. Even if youre lactose intolerant, there are now plenty of dairy products that are lactose-reduced or lactose-free. Removing lactose from milk and dairy foods does not affect the calcium content.
Sardines
Milk and dairy products are not the only ways to get calcium. Another excellent source is sardines. All those little fish bones have just what you need to build bone mass in your own body. Eating 3 ounces of canned sardines delivers a little more calcium than a cup of milk.
Greens
You might be surprised to learn that calcium is plentiful in many vegetables. Go for greens such as bok choy (seen above), Chinese cabbage, and kale. The traditional soul food favorites, collard and turnip greens, offer a lot of calcium, too. One cup of chopped, cooked turnip greens has about 200 milligrams of calcium.
Fortified Foods
If dairy products, sardines, and leafy greens leave you cold, consider eating fortified foods. These are products that do not naturally contain calcium but have been enhanced with varying amounts of the essential mineral. Breakfast foods are a great start -- fortified orange juice has up to 240 milligrams of calcium, and fortified cereals deliver up to 1,000 milligrams per cup. Check the nutritional label for the exact amount.
Calcium Supplements
Soy Foods
Salmon
Salmon and other types of fatty fish offer an array of bone-boosting nutrients. They contain calcium as well as vitamin D, which assists in calcium absorption. They’re also high in omega-3 fatty acids. Fish oil supplements have been shown to reduce bone loss in elderly women and may prevent osteoporosis.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds can bolster bone health in several ways. Almonds, pistachios, and sunflower seeds are all high in calcium. Walnuts and flaxseeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Peanuts and almonds contain potassium, which protects against the loss of calcium in urine. Nuts also contain protein and other nutrients that play a supportive role in building strong bones.
Hold the Salt
Salt is a major culprit in depriving the body of calcium. The more salt you eat, the more calcium gets carried away by urine. Sticking to a low-salt diet can help you keep more calcium to strengthen your bones.
Sunshine
OK, sunshine is technically not a food. But it is the best source of a nutrient that is found in surprisingly few foods. The body produces vitamin D in response to sunlight. Without vitamin D, our bodies cannot properly absorb calcium. Although milk is often fortified with vitamin D, one 8-ounce cup is usually not enough to maximize calcium absorption. Doctors recommend taking a vitamin D supplement if you live in an area where sun exposure is limited.
Weight-Bearing Exercise
To get the most out of your bone-boosting diet, you’ll want to do regular weight-bearing exercise. This includes any activity that uses the weight of your body or outside weights to stress the bones and muscles. The result is that your body lays down more bone material, and your bones become denser. Brisk walking, dancing, tennis, and yoga have all been shown to benefit your bones.
8 The power possessed super human
Friday, February 21, 2014
8 The power possessed super human - If Superman can fly and SpiderMan issued cobwebs out of his hand, ordinary people turned out to also have super powers like them! What is it? Check out more as reported by the Huffington Post following.
Imagination
The power of imagination allows people to create ideas, images, and amazing concept. When imagination, the same man to create something that did not exist previously. Yet despite the imagination only exists in the mind, does not mean people can not make it happen!
Cure
Affection is not only soothing, but also heals. Research proves that even the presence of loved ones able to accelerate the recovery of patients who are recovering from illness. Meanwhile, if lonely, someone at risk even sickly.
Creativity
In connection with imagination, hard effort to realize the imagination is also one super power that ordinary human beings. In addition, the business is a form of creativity that is characteristic of each person.
Memory
Actual memory is defined as the power to recall something. This power is certainly very valuable, because if a man can not remember his past, they would like creature that lost its way. With memory, humans will also learn to not make the same mistake in the past.
Durability
Although the human body is not as strong as Superman, but they have endurance incredible. Just imagine, a lot of people who every day perform heavy duty and still live although not like. In addition to strong physical, mental endurance is shared by ordinary people.
Intuition
Intuition is the ability to grasp things quickly. For example, assessing a case at first glance. Although intuition is not always right, but this one super power can at least be used as a basic guide for humans to do next.
Courage
Courage also include super strength of human beings. For example, they want to take a risky decision. Courage is also delivering personal human being who was not afraid to face any obstacles.
Empathy
Empathy or the ability to understand and share emotions with others is the last super power of human beings. Because to understand each other, people can learn to become a better person and wise.
That variety of super powers that ordinary human beings. Everything else can be used to help others!
Imagination
The power of imagination allows people to create ideas, images, and amazing concept. When imagination, the same man to create something that did not exist previously. Yet despite the imagination only exists in the mind, does not mean people can not make it happen!
Cure
Affection is not only soothing, but also heals. Research proves that even the presence of loved ones able to accelerate the recovery of patients who are recovering from illness. Meanwhile, if lonely, someone at risk even sickly.
Creativity
In connection with imagination, hard effort to realize the imagination is also one super power that ordinary human beings. In addition, the business is a form of creativity that is characteristic of each person.
Memory
Actual memory is defined as the power to recall something. This power is certainly very valuable, because if a man can not remember his past, they would like creature that lost its way. With memory, humans will also learn to not make the same mistake in the past.
Durability
Although the human body is not as strong as Superman, but they have endurance incredible. Just imagine, a lot of people who every day perform heavy duty and still live although not like. In addition to strong physical, mental endurance is shared by ordinary people.
Intuition
Intuition is the ability to grasp things quickly. For example, assessing a case at first glance. Although intuition is not always right, but this one super power can at least be used as a basic guide for humans to do next.
Courage
Courage also include super strength of human beings. For example, they want to take a risky decision. Courage is also delivering personal human being who was not afraid to face any obstacles.
Empathy
Empathy or the ability to understand and share emotions with others is the last super power of human beings. Because to understand each other, people can learn to become a better person and wise.
That variety of super powers that ordinary human beings. Everything else can be used to help others!
Super Lunch Tuna
Thursday, January 30, 2014
ingredients:
1 can white tuna in brine (180 g) drained
100 g chopped parsley
100 g of minced red onion
100 g red pepper chopped
50 g fat mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon of mustard
1 tablespoon raisins
preparation:
Using a fork, crumble the tuna in a bowl. Add remaining ingredients and stir well. Its ready!
suggestion:
Serve on a toasted bun (white bread, oat bread with poppy seeds or even garlic) or salad greens. By adding 200 g of cooked pasta, you compose a salad hearty and delicious.
Super Committee To Physicians Go Texan or Go Dishwasher
Tuesday, January 28, 2014
 |
| Room for one more! |
But if budget cutting is a good thing, why are the equity markets down? In addition to the lingering threat of an eventual Moodys downgrade, the DMCB suspects stock holders a) have calculated a $1.2 trillion budget cut was never really up to the task*, and b) fear that the 2012 Congress wont stick to its guns.
So, asks the DMCB, whats next?
Automatic cuts will be applied to discretionary federal spending as well as the defense budget. While Medicaid is spared (much to the relief of our nations governors), Medicare is facing a 2% sequestration which, because premiums and cost sharing will go untouched, translates into payment cuts for hospitals, doctors and other providers. An additionally toxic wild card is a looming additional "SGR" 27.4% Medicare physician fee schedule cut.
How will the DMCBs physician colleagues react to this dysfunction?
Not well:
1) for those in physician owned practices, it may come down to deciding whether or not to go
2) for those in salaried positions, they can look forward to their Administrators turning to the "dishwasher" approach of maximizing patient throughput-dependent revenue: theres always room for a few more. And if docs expect Uncle Sam to have any sympathy, they need to think again.
Let the games continue.
(HT to George Will)
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