Folic acid (also known as B9), is a water-soluble synthetic vitamin; a counterpart of the naturally occurring form (known as folate) found in leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, meat, and poultry (Lee & Chan, 2011; Tomita, 2016). Such a vitamin is key for the normal functioning of red blood cells (RBCs), the adequate synthesis of […]
Read MoreIn recent posts, I have covered omega-3 oils and their benefits. In recent years, a particular form of omega-3 (krill oil) has been researched and promoted for its particular health benefits. Such benefits include reduced hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and arthritis (Kwantes & Grundmann, 2015). As such, the following will consider krill oil, its safety, and comparative […]
Read MoreVitamin D is a micronutrient that has been associated with significantly reducing all-cause mortality, and has been implicated in many diseases of modern civilization (Cannell, 2008). Furthermore, and most relevantly, vitamin D interacts with more that 200 genes and multiple organs, indicating its broad reach and influence upon human physiology (Cannell & Hollis, 2008; Wang, […]
Read MoreMetabolic syndrome (MS) is a condition defined by a constellation of associated risk factors that increase a person’s chances of contracting stroke, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and diabetes (Chen, Yen, Huang, Lee, Hsia, & Lin, 2012). Said risk factors include: abdominal obesity (waist circumference 102 cm for males, 88cm for females), impaired fasting glucose (≥6.1 mmol/L), […]
Read MoreAtherosclerosis can be defined as the buildup of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls (plaque), which can restrict blood flow (Mayo Clinic, 2018). Said condition can manifest as early as childhood with the development and deposition of fatty cholesterol streaks along the endothelium (blood vessel wall) (Lee & Nieman, 2013). […]
Read MoreDiabetes mellitus (DM) is a general term used to describe a group of diseases characterized by an aberration in insulin secretion and/or cellular resistance to said hormone. Such discordance between insulin and the cell can drive elevated plasma glucose levels, inhibit proper metabolism of carbohydrates/fats, induce pathologic changes in nerves/small blood vessels, and aggravate atherosclerosis […]
Read MoreIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects between 11% and 14% of the population characterized by altered gut motility (constipation/diarrhea), visceral hypersensitivity, abnormal brain-gut interaction, autonomic dysfunction, and immune activation (Lin, 2004). Although a diverse range of symptoms exist, 92% of said population exhibit bloating (Lin, 2004). Researchers have postulated that in order for bloating to occur, […]
Read MoreIn my last post, I covered the utility of low carbohydrate/high fat diets. However, one must be cautious to assume such diet is beneficial for all individuals as bio-individuality and circumstance might demand a different intervention. Some individuals exhibit an intolerance to fats in the diet, manifested as loose stools, gut discomfort, and low energy […]
Read MoreAmericans consume approximately 55% of daily calories from carbohydrates that can include refined sources and simple sugars (Abbasi, 2018). Very low carbohydrate ketogenic diets (VLCKDs) can be defined as 20-50 grams of carbohydrates per day with, or without, the presence of ketosis (Feinman et al., 2015). Said dietary approaches have been explored, in addition to […]
Read MoreUrinalysis of glucose and ketones are non-invasive tests, which are used to reflect the levels of said molecules in the blood. Such tests are often used to monitor the effectiveness of interventions (i.e., nutrition, medication, lifestyle) for diabetics and individuals with insulin resistance (Pagna & Pagna, 2014). As a means of appreciating the need and […]
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