Related Stories:
The year is off with a bang as we see new numerous studies expanding scientific knowledge of human health and uncovering the way nutrients work with the human gene. While we are only half way into 2010, here is a recap of the top 5 nutrients that have been making their way into the headlines and preferably our body as well so far this year.
Bioflavonoids such as grape seed extract
Bioflavonoids have been known to be beneficial to humans for a while now but in 2010 its star pupils, grape seed extract and quercetin, have emerged as powerful protectors of the heart and cardiovascular system. Additionally they have the ability to help the brain by combating Alzheimer's disease, restoration of insulin sensitivity for diabetic patients and also killing off leukemia cells by inducing cell death of cancer cells.
Whey Protein
The only super food to make it on our list, whey protein has numerous health benefits. While there is major marketing hype behind the product to make it almost seem like a gimmick, the science is sound. Just like marketing companies, health professionals also push this product for a variety of reasons including helping with weight loss (reduces appetite), improving bone health and enhancing fat metabolism.
Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 has long been known as an anti-aging nutrient. Today more is known about how it works with your metabolic process and that its presence decreases in your body as you get older. When the human body is unable to maintain a sufficient level of Q10 in the cells, it eventually results in cell death. This link that proves coenzyme Q10 as an energy source for your cells has shown the nutrient to have multiple benefits, including boosting energy, nerves, muscles and metabolism and also improving circulatory health which is important for heart health and diabetes.
DHA Omega-3 fatty acid
New research further enforces the benefits of the essential Omega-3 fatty acid called DHA in the prevention of heart disease, obesity, prostate cancer, rejuvenating brain cells, improving the intelligence of babies and reducing depression in middle-age women.
Unfortunately the best form of DHA is still only available through fish oil which can pose as a problem for vegetarians. While flaxseed oil is branded as a substitute, it isn't a complete one. Flaxseed oil only contains ALA, just one of eight essential Omega 3s.
Tocotrienols (Vitamin E)
Tocotrienols, a unique form of vitamin E), have been previously known for its ability to protect the cardiovascular system. New studies now show a host of other improvements such as protecting the kidneys, fighting off nerve damage normally induced by alcohol consumption, increasing bone strength, protection from numerous kinds of cancer at the molecular level and also stopping new fat cells from forming.
All five nutrients have shown their range of abilities to significantly support many aspects important to health. As scientists learn more about genes, we're sure to uncover more of their benefits and how they make us healthy.
