Science and Health

The Intermittent Fasting Debate: Is It Really the Holy Grail of Weight Loss? In the ever-evolving landscape of diet trends, one approach has risen to the forefront, capturing the attention of fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike: intermittent fasting. Touted as the secret weapon for weight loss and improved metabolic health, intermittent fasting has garnered a massive following. However, it's time to question whether this eating pattern is truly the panacea it's made out to be or if it's just another dietary fad with potential downsides. The Hype Surrounding Intermittent Fasting Proponents of intermittent fasting sing its praises for numerous reasons. The idea is simple: cycle between periods of eating and fasting, allowing the body to tap into fat stores for energy during fasting windows. This, they argue, can lead to significant weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and even increased longevity. The Reality Check: Does Intermittent Fasting Deliv...

 Unlocking the Power of Omega-3 Fatty Acids: A Comprehensive Guide In the realm of nutrition, certain compounds stand out for their extraordinary impact on our health. Omega-3 fatty acids, often referred to as essential fats, have garnered considerable attention for their diverse health benefits. From supporting heart health to boosting cognitive function, these fats play a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being. Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The Basics Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that our bodies need but cannot produce on their own. Hence, it's vital to obtain them through our diet. There are three main types of omega-3s: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Each type has its unique benefits, contributing to various aspects of health. Heart Health: The Omega-3 Connection One of the most well-established benefits of omega-3 fatty acids is their positive impact on heart health. Numerous studie...

A look at Sodium and Calcium ions. Does calcium provide the same risk as sodium to Hypertension? Critical elements or minerals in human nutrition are grouped into three main categories on the basis of two factors: amount of the mineral required by the body and its essentiality for human life. Therefore, we look in turn at 1. Major minerals/ions   2. Essential trace elements, and 3. Probably essential ultra-trace elements (they are being studied to determine their degree of importance for humans). Elements for which the requirement is greater than 100 mg /day are called major minerals, not because they are more important but just because there are more of them in the body. They make 60% to 80% of all the inorganic material in the human body. Examples are Calcium (Ca), Phosphorus(P), Magnesium (Mg), Sodium (Na), Potassium(K), Chloride (Cl or Cl 2 ), and Sulphur(S). Trace elements are needed or available in the body in smaller amount (less than 100 mg/day). Examples are Iron (F...

What are Macronutrients? Factors that affect the availability of Macronutrients. I. Introduction A. Brief Overview of Macronutrients: Macronutrients are the essential nutrients required in relatively large amounts for the proper functioning of the human body. The three main macronutrients are carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids (fats). They provide energy, support growth and maintenance, and play various critical roles in the body's metabolism. B. Importance of Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Lipids in the Diet: Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy. Proteins are essential for tissue repair, immune function, and enzyme production. Lipids are important for energy storage and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. II. Factors Affecting Carbohydrate Availability A. Dietary Sources of Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are found in foods like grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes. The availability of carbohydrates depends on the variety of carbohydrate-rich foods in one...

Gluten and Non-gluten Foods GLUTEN SENSITIVE AND INSENSITIVE PERSONS What is Gluten History of Gluten Symptoms Importance of Gluten Management Comparing gluten and non-gluten food African Gluten Food African Gluten Free Food Medical Conditions Requiring Gluten/ Non-gluten food What is Gluten Go to top Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. Consisting of gliadin which is made up of about 47%, the Amino acid, glutamine. Gluten provides elasticity to dough, allowing bread to rise and giving it a chewy texture. However, some people are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, making gluten consumption harmful to them. Historical background Go to top In the 1950s, a definitive diagnostic technique of peroral biopsy was developed. Using a flexible tube with a suction-guillotine tip, small tissue samples of the intestinal mucosa could be obtained for microscopic...