Zinc is necessary for many of the body's processes and most people are deficient in this vital mineral. It is an active agent in our body's ability to metabolize food and nutrients. It assists with triggering over 100 differing internal enzymes required for many metabolic actions. Zinc is also crucial for the immune system. It supports growth through its role in protein building and synthesis and is therefore particularly needed by pregnant and lactating women. (more…)
Distinguished by their orange, yellow, and red pigments, carotenoids are found in many plants, algae, and bacteria. Carotenoids act as antioxidants within the body, protecting against cellular damage, the effects of aging, and even some chronic diseases. These beneficial compounds cannot be synthesized by humans or animals, diet is the only way to get them. There are well over 600 known carotenoids, with beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, lycopene, and astaxanthin being the most common. Why Are Carotenoids Important? As antioxidants, carotenoids are helpful for protecting vision and combating cellular damage. […]
Beloved by the Incas, lucuma is a super nutritious Peruvian fruit that contains beta carotene, iron, zinc, vitamin B3, calcium, and protein. Its maple-like taste makes it a sweet addition to smoothies, baked goods, and even ice cream. Viewed as a symbol of fertility and creation, lucuma was called the “Gold of the Incas” and was used for a variety of applications. Recent research shows that lucuma may be helpful for supporting skin health, blood sugar, and even cardiovascular health. (more…)
Are probiotics really that good for you? Is yogurt the best source of probiotics? I regularly hear these and many other questions about probiotics. Probiotics is a straightforward subject, but confusion persists regarding these beneficial microbes. The fact that there are so many different probiotic species, and their many strains, doesn’t help. Let’s start by discussing Lactobacillus gasseri, one of the beneficial microorganisms that assist with digestive health and against harmful organisms. (more…)
When it comes to encouraging good health, it's hard to beat exercise. Hundreds of health benefits are associated with physical activity, ranging from weight loss to mood support. Even if you are eating a 100% organic, raw vegan diet, without exercise you're missing an integral piece of the puzzle. A recent study presented at the American Physiological Society Conference is suggesting that vitamin C could promote similar heart effects as seen with exercise. [1] (more…)
