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What is Science Based Fitness?

Your free- source of information, news, and deep dive into the latest science in the world or fitness and health. We dive deep into the literature and debunk a lot of fake claims. Also, providing helpful tips and workouts to improve your health and quality of life. 

Are Seed Oils Toxic?

Seed Oils

Toxic or healthy? 

Are seed oils toxic?

Facts Or Myth

Social media influencers are out to demonize something new in order to get views and attention. After all, their online platform survives on getting attention.  Are seed oils really toxic, or is social media influencers promoting fear mongering around something most people don’t understand?  Similar to people fearing carbohydrates because of the claim around carbohydrates makes people fat, the same is true for seed oils. Are seed oils really bad, or is the food they’re packaged with? 

Seed oils are used in fried and packaged foods, so are the seed oils really bad, or is the higher consumption of high-calorie processed foods? 

What are seed oils?

Seed oils are extracted from the seeds of different plants, and are known as vegetable oils. Many social media influencers refer to them as the “Hateful Eight.” These include the following:

The Truth

Dietary fat sources are saturated, monounsaturated (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Although, we’re not discussing trans fat in-depth as they should be extremely limited, and there’s no value.  Seed oils fall into the polyunsaturated fat category, (omega -3 and omega 6)  and a lot of data promotes higher consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids results in healthier outcomes. Replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat has been shown to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve health outcomes.  However, polyunsaturated fats can improve health outcomes and can reduce inflammation, but a major problem with seed oils is the over consumption. Most fried foods are fried using vegetable oils, so the association between weight gain, inflammation, and cardiovascular disease comes from the over consumption of fried foods. The oils used in fried foods are often heated to high temperatures too frequently, and this may contribute to a negative health outcome. Also, foods that are fried are typically fatty meats or refined carbohydrates. 

Positive health outcomes from polyunsaturated fat is when daily intake of 2-3 tablespoons, and cooking temperatures is lower. However, it’s easy to overconsume oils especially when fried. Fats are more calorie dense than carbohydrates and protein, and contains 9 calories per-gram whereas protein and carbohydrates contain 4 calories per-gram. It’s also important to note the difference between frying seed oils in higher temperatures instead of cooking with seed oils in your home. 

Some data suggests a possible risk of oil-oxidation from high-temperature cooking and the process of  reheat/ reuse of oils. Removing seed oils from your diet can be beneficial since the elimination of many fried and package foods results in greater health outcomes when replaced with whole foods such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. 

Saturated Fat

Founds in meat and dairy products.

Saturated fat raise levels of bad cholesterol in the blood known as Low-density Lipoprotein. (LDL) Higher elevation of LDL have been shown to increase risk of heart disease. 

Monounsaturated Fat

Found in meat, dairy and plants

Monounsaturated fats may lower LDL cholesterol and raise High-density Lipoprotein. (HDL) HDL is known to protect the heart and prevent cardiovascular disease. Replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats in the diet may lower the level of bad cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are fat cells that circulate in the bloodstream and are stored in the body’s fat cells. A high level of triglycerides in the blood increases the risk of diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Polyunsaturated Fat

Polyunsaturated fats are made up of omega-6 and emega-3 fatty acids.

For optimal health, a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is important. Seed oils fall into the omega-6 classification whereas foods like fish, chia seeds, avocados, soybeans, flaxseed, walnuts, and oils from those sources  are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids oxidize quickly and will discolor when exposed to oxygen. These fats can help lower LDL cholesterol, which can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke

Trans Fat

Trans fat raises bad cholesterol and lowers good cholesterol.

Also known as Partially Hydrogenated Oils, trans fats are plant fats that have been chemically changed to be solid fat. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration conclude trans fats are no longer safe for U.S. production. 

Why Hate Seed Oils

Many wellness or nutritional influencers claim seed oils are inflammatory, but mostly because it’s a trending topic of discussion. Trending topics are important for social media algorithms if you want your content viewed by the public. Seed oils are a perfect example of classifying them as harmful when the data suggest a positive outcome. Seed oils contain linoleic acid, which some data suggest an increase risk of heart disease. However, majority data shows a neutral or positive outcome when consumed in moderation. Additionally,  replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fats shows an improvement in lowering LDL (Bad cholesterol)  and raising HDL. (Good cholesterol) The “Seed oils cause inflammation” notion started around the possibility that linoleic acid contributes to inflammation is based off the concern that large amounts of linoleic acid will increase arachidonic acid (AA) and other subsequent pro-inflammatory eicosanoids.   In other words, the higher consumption of linoleic acid may disrupt absorption and compete with omega-3 fatty acids, and thus, reduce the formation of anti-inflammatory eicosanoids. 

This theory is often tested in randomize control trials, which shown consumption of polyunsaturated fats had either a positive or neutral effect on biomarkers for inflammation. Based on the current data, we can conclude there’s no evidence to show seed oils increase inflammation, and the consumption of both polyunsaturated and monounsaturated is strongly encouraged. Data suggests a reduction in inflammatory biomarkers when a balance of omega-3 and omega-6 is consumed through diet. However, due to the caloric density of fat intake, it’s strongly recommended to consume between 5-10% of daily calories from fat. 

Replacing seed oils with Beef Tallow

High-fat diet is associated with an increased risk of many metabolic syndromes such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.  Due to the risk of increasing LDL cholesterol in the blood from consuming too much saturated fat, people look for other forms of fat to consume.  There’s some benefits to consuming beef tallow such as some vitamins and minerals. However, Beef tallow is an omega-6 polyunsaturated fat, and contains conjugated linoleic acid that may help prevent against cardiovascular disease. Beef tallow and seed oils are both polyunsaturated fatty acids. The primary difference is linoleic acid found in seed oils and conjugated linolenic acid found in beef tallow. The current data shown greater fat accumulation in mice when fed beef tallow than safflower oil. More studies must be done to show any greater benefit. However, they’re both similar by structure.

Moderation and Balance: The potential harm of seed oils likely stems from overconsumption and imbalance with omega-3s, not the oils themselves. Aim for a varied fat intake, including omega-3-rich foods (e.g., salmon, walnuts, chia seeds).
 
 

Conclusion:

Seed oils are not inherently “toxic” when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and regulatory bodies deem them safe. However, concerns about their omega-6 content, processing methods, and use in ultra-processed foods warrant caution. Choosing high-quality oils, limiting processed food intake, and balancing omega-6s with omega-3s can mitigate potential risks.
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References

  • Su H, Liu R, Chang M, Huang J, Wang X. Dietary linoleic acid intake and blood inflammatory markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Food Funct. 2017 Sep 20;8(9):3091-3103. doi: 10.1039/c7fo00433h. PMID: 28752873.
  • Su H, Liu R, Chang M, Huang J, Jin Q, Wang X. Effect of dietary alpha-linolenic acid on blood inflammatory markers: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Eur J Nutr. 2018 Apr;57(3):877-891. doi: 10.1007/s00394-017-1386-2. Epub 2017 Mar 8. PMID: 28275869.
  • DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH. Omega-6 vegetable oils as a driver of coronary heart disease: the oxidized linoleic acid hypothesis. Open Heart. 2018 Sep 26;5(2):e000898. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2018-000898. PMID: 30364556; PMCID: PMC6196963.
  • DiNicolantonio JJ, O’Keefe JH. Omega-6 vegetable oils as a driver of coronary heart disease: the oxidized linoleic acid hypothesis. Open Heart. 2018 Sep 26;5(2):e000898. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2018-000898. PMID: 30364556; PMCID: PMC6196963.
  • JM Hodgson, ML Wahlqvist, JA Boxall, ND Balazs,
    Can linoleic acid contribute to coronary artery disease?,
    The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition,
    Volume 58, Issue 2, 1993, Pages 228-234, ISSN 0002-9165,
    https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/58.2.228.
  • Tian M, Bai Y, Tian H, Zhao X. The Chemical Composition and Health-Promoting Benefits of Vegetable Oils-A Review. Molecules. 2023 Sep 1;28(17):6393. doi: 10.3390/molecules28176393. PMID: 37687222; PMCID: PMC10489903.
  • Yamashima T, Ota T, Mizukoshi E, Nakamura H, Yamamoto Y, Kikuchi M, Yamashita T, Kaneko S. Intake of ω-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid-Rich Vegetable Oils and Risk of Lifestyle Diseases. Adv Nutr. 2020 Nov 16;11(6):1489-1509. doi: 10.1093/advances/nmaa072. PMID: 32623461; PMCID: PMC7666899.
  • Fritsche KL. Linoleic acid, vegetable oils & inflammation. Mo Med. 2014 Jan-Feb;111(1):41-3. PMID: 24645297; PMCID: PMC6179509.
  • Damude HG, Kinney AJ. Enhancing plant seed oils for human nutrition. Plant Physiol. 2008 Jul;147(3):962-8. doi: 10.1104/pp.108.121681. PMID: 18612073; PMCID: PMC2442541.
  • Sayon-Orea C, Carlos S, Martínez-Gonzalez MA. Does cooking with vegetable oils increase the risk of chronic diseases?: a systematic review. British Journal of Nutrition. 2015;113(S2):S36-S48. doi:10.1017/S0007114514002931
  • Gadiraju TV, Patel Y, Gaziano JM, Djoussé L. Fried Food Consumption and Cardiovascular Health: A Review of Current Evidence. Nutrients. 2015 Oct 6;7(10):8424-30. doi: 10.3390/nu7105404. PMID: 26457715; PMCID: PMC4632424.
  • Lee J, Lee JK, Lee JJ, Park S, Jung S, Lee HJ, Ha JH. Partial Replacement of High-Fat Diet with Beef Tallow Attenuates Dyslipidemia and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in db/db Mice. J Med Food. 2022 Jun;25(6):660-674. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2022.K.0019. Epub 2022 May 26. PMID: 35617705.
  • Matsuo T, Sumida H, Suzuki M. Beef tallow diet decreases beta-adrenergic receptor binding and lipolytic activities in different adipose tissues of rat. Metabolism. 1995 Oct;44(10):1271-7. doi: 10.1016/0026-0495(95)90028-4. PMID: 7476283.

Saffron

Saffron

What are the health benefits of Saffron? 

Saffron

Possible cure for depression?

Saffron is a very costly spice, and also known as Saffron Crocus. An increasing number of studies shows a lot of benefits for saffron. More randomize, double-blind, placebo control trials are showing promising results in overall health including inflammation, stress, anxiety, depression, cancer prevention, increase libido, and weight loss. 

Known as the sunshine spice due it’s distant color and mood enhancing affects. Saffron is also a very powerful anti-oxidant, which may help prevent many different types of cancers.  Supplementing with 60mg of Saffron for 12 weeks shown significant reduction in weight, fasting triglycerides and increase fasting HDL levels. Saffron constitutes a promising nutraceutical option for adolescents and children with obesity and prediabetes. 

Saffron could be an alternative to other SSRI medications in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms with little to no side effects. More large scale data is required to prove saffron is similar to an SSRI. 

Saffron may play a crucial role in male reproductive health and erectile dysfunction. Although prediabetes is a major risk factor erectile dysfunction, saffron may have aphrodisiac-like properties. 

Enhance mood

Studies show that saffron may improve mood and sleep. 

Decrease inflammation

Among active young adults, Saffron has been shown in improve recovery and make workouts more enjoyable in males. 

Help with weight loss

Saffron may help reduce appetite, body mass index, waist circumference and fat mass. 

Science Based Review

We highly recommend the benefits of saffron with turmeric. 

The combination of saffron with the benefits and anti-inflammation properties of turmeric delivers the best potential of decreased inflammation elevated mood.

Saffron + Turmeric

Turmeric

Major benefits for brain and body health

Turmeric contains compounds called curcuminoids that’s been shown to reduce inflammation and pain. The most popular curcuminoid is curcumin, and it’s the main active ingredient in turmeric. 

Cinnamon

Anti-inflammatory, aid in metabolic disease and help lose weight

Cinnamon is a spice that’s been shown to improve cardiovascular biomarkers. There’s evidence to show that cinnamon is rich in polyphenols, and may have a beneficial effect on cardio metabolic health, cholesterol, stress and inflammation. 

Cardamom

May help with high blood pressure, weight loss, and infection

Cardamom may help lower blood pressure, improve digestive issues, and help immune function. Research shows a protective compound found in cardamom may help prevent cancers cells from forming or developing. When cardamom is paired with turmeric, data found the combination to be even more effective at preventing tumor growth. 

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References

  • Kotanidou EP, Tsinopoulou VR, Giza S, Ntouma S, Angeli C, Chatziandreou M, Tsopelas K, Tseti I, Galli-Tsinopoulou A. The Effect of Saffron Kozanis (Crocus sativus L.) Supplementation on Weight Management, Glycemic Markers and Lipid Profile in Adolescents with Obesity: A Double-Blinded Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Children (Basel). 2023 Nov 15;10(11):1814. doi: 10.3390/children10111814. PMID: 38002905; PMCID: PMC10670718.
  • Tóth B, Hegyi P, Lantos T, Szakács Z, Kerémi B, Varga G, Tenk J, Pétervári E, Balaskó M, Rumbus Z, Rakonczay Z, Bálint ER, Kiss T, Csupor D. The Efficacy of Saffron in the Treatment of Mild to Moderate Depression: A Meta-analysis. Planta Med. 2019 Jan;85(1):24-31. doi: 10.1055/a-0660-9565. Epub 2018 Jul 23. PMID: 30036891.
  • El Midaoui A, Ghzaiel I, Vervandier-Fasseur D, Ksila M, Zarrouk A, Nury T, Khallouki F, El Hessni A, Ibrahimi SO, Latruffe N, Couture R, Kharoubi O, Brahmi F, Hammami S, Masmoudi-Kouki O, Hammami M, Ghrairi T, Vejux A, Lizard G. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases. Nutrients. 2022 Jan 29;14(3):597. doi: 10.3390/nu14030597. PMID: 35276955; PMCID: PMC8839854.
  • Lu C, Ke L, Li J, Zhao H, Lu T, Mentis AFA, Wang Y, Wang Z, Polissiou MG, Tang L, Tang H, Yang K. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and health outcomes: a meta-research review of meta-analyses and an evidence mapping study. Phytomedicine. 2021 Oct;91:153699. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153699. Epub 2021 Aug 8. PMID: 34419735.
  • Shafiee M, Arekhi S, Omranzadeh A, Sahebkar A. Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action. J Affect Disord. 2018 Feb;227:330-337. doi: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.11.020. Epub 2017 Nov 7. PMID: 29136602.
  • Seyedi-Sahebari S, Farhang S, Araj-Khodaei M, Akhondzadeh S, Naseri A, Sanaie S, Frounchi N. The Effects of Crocus sativus (Saffron) on ADHD: A Systematic Review. J Atten Disord. 2024 Jan;28(1):14-24. doi: 10.1177/10870547231203176. Epub 2023 Oct 21. PMID: 37864351.
  • Shafiee A, Jafarabady K, Seighali N, Mohammadi I, Rajai Firouz Abadi S, Abhari FS, Bakhtiyari M. Effect of Saffron Versus Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) in Treatment of Depression and Anxiety: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutr Rev. 2024 Jun 24:nuae076. doi: 10.1093/nutrit/nuae076. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38913392.
  • Cerdá-Bernad D, Costa L, Serra AT, Bronze MR, Valero-Cases E, Pérez-Llamas F, Candela ME, Arnao MB, Barberán FT, Villalba RG, García-Conesa MT, Frutos MJ. Saffron against Neuro-Cognitive Disorders: An Overview of Its Main Bioactive Compounds, Their Metabolic Fate and Potential Mechanisms of Neurological Protection. Nutrients. 2022 Dec 17;14(24):5368. doi: 10.3390/nu14245368. PMID: 36558528; PMCID: PMC9781906.
  • Goyal A, Raza FA, Sulaiman SA, Shahzad A, Aaqil SI, Iqbal M, Javed B, Pokhrel P. Saffron extract as an emerging novel therapeutic option in reproduction and sexual health: recent advances and future prospectives. Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2024 Apr 4;86(5):2856-2865. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000002013. PMID: 38694315; PMCID: PMC11060205.
  • Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. An examination into the mental and physical effects of a saffron extract (affron®) in recreationally-active adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2022 Jun 7;19(1):219-238. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2083455. PMID: 35813851; PMCID: PMC9261746.
  • Kutbi EH, Sohouli MH, Fatahi S, Lari A, Shidfar F, Aljhdali MM, Alhoshan FM, Elahi SS, Almusa HA, Abu-Zaid A. The beneficial effects of cinnamon among patients with metabolic diseases: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2022;62(22):6113-6131. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2021.1896473. Epub 2021 Mar 19. PMID: 33739219.
  • Sarmadi B, Musazadeh V, Dehghan P, Karimi E. The effect of cinnamon consumption on lipid profile, oxidative stress, and inflammation biomarkers in adults: An umbrella meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis. 2023 Oct;33(10):1821-1835. doi: 10.1016/j.numecd.2023.03.010. Epub 2023 Mar 18. PMID: 37500345.
  • Maierean SM, Serban MC, Sahebkar A, Ursoniu S, Serban A, Penson P, Banach M; Lipid and Blood Pressure Meta-analysis Collaboration (LBPMC) Group. The effects of cinnamon supplementation on blood lipid concentrations: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Lipidol. 2017 Nov-Dec;11(6):1393-1406. doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2017.08.004. Epub 2017 Aug 12. PMID: 28887086.
  • Verma SK, Jain V, Katewa SS. Blood pressure lowering, fibrinolysis enhancing and antioxidant activities of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). Indian J Biochem Biophys. 2009 Dec;46(6):503-6. PMID: 20361714.
  • Das I, Acharya A, Berry DL, Sen S, Williams E, Permaul E, Sengupta A, Bhattacharya S, Saha T. Antioxidative effects of the spice cardamom against non-melanoma skin cancer by modulating nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 and NF-κB signalling pathways. Br J Nutr. 2012 Sep 28;108(6):984-97. doi: 10.1017/S0007114511006283. Epub 2011 Dec 19. PMID: 22182368.
  • Majdalawieh AF, Carr RI. In vitro investigation of the potential immunomodulatory and anti-cancer activities of black pepper (Piper nigrum) and cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum). J Med Food. 2010 Apr;13(2):371-81. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2009.1131. PMID: 20210607

Beta-Alanine

Beta- Alanine

Hello I’m Your new trainer

Beta- Alanine

Muscle and endurance supplement with new cognitive benefits for mental health. 

Studies show that supplementation with Beta-alanine increase performance for higher intensity training. Also, beta-alanine supports muscle growth by aiding in muscle recovery and repair. 

Recent data suggests that B-alanine can result in carnosine elevations in the brain, which appears supplementation may increase resilience to post-traumatic stress disorder, mild traumatic brain injury and heat stress. 

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Not just for exercise

More research suggest beta-alanine may help reduce anxiety, reduce aging, and protect against cognitive decline. 

Why should you take Beta Alanine?

Nothing Feels As Good As Being Fit

Beta- alanine promotes faster recovery between exercise or sets, and helps increase output. Beta-alanine is a precursor to carnosine, and carnosine reduces lactic acid accumulation in your muscles during exercise. Beta-alanine increases your time to exhaustion by reducing fatigue. During exercise, glucose is broken down. Muscle breakdown glucose into lactic acid and converts into lactate. Carnosine works as a buffer against acid by reducing lactate in the muscle. Since beta-alanine elevates carnosine, muscle experience less fatigue during training. 

Increase Recovery

While Training

Muscle Repair

Post exercise and recovery

Fat burning

Greater lean body mass

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Start working on your body today, and with our individual fitness program, already in 90 days you will see a totally different girl in the mirror.

References

  • Artioli GG, Gualano B, Smith A, Stout J, Lancha AH Jr. Role of beta-alanine supplementation on muscle carnosine and exercise performance. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010 Jun;42(6):1162-73. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0b013e3181c74e38. PMID: 20479615.
  • Cimadevilla-Fernández-Pola E, Martínez-Roldán C, Maté-Muñoz JL, Guodemar-Pérez J, Sánchez-Calabuig MA, García-Fernández P, Hervás-Pérez JP, Hernández-Lougedo J. Effects of β-Alanine Supplementation on Subjects Performing High-Intensity Functional Training. Nutrients. 2024 Jul 19;16(14):2340. doi: 10.3390/nu16142340. PMID: 39064783; PMCID: PMC11280034.
  • Saunders B, Elliott-Sale K, Artioli GG, Swinton PA, Dolan E, Roschel H, Sale C, Gualano B. β-alanine supplementation to improve exercise capacity and performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Sports Med. 2017 Apr;51(8):658-669. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096396. Epub 2016 Oct 18. PMID: 27797728.
  • Ostfeld I, Hoffman JR. The Effect of β-Alanine Supplementation on Performance, Cognitive Function and Resiliency in Soldiers. Nutrients. 2023 Feb 19;15(4):1039. doi: 10.3390/nu15041039. PMID: 36839397; PMCID: PMC9961614.
  • Hobson RM, Saunders B, Ball G, Harris RC, Sale C. Effects of β-alanine supplementation on exercise performance: a meta-analysis. Amino Acids. 2012 Jul;43(1):25-37. doi: 10.1007/s00726-011-1200-z. Epub 2012 Jan 24. PMID: 22270875; PMCID: PMC3374095.
  • Trexler ET, Smith-Ryan AE, Stout JR, Hoffman JR, Wilborn CD, Sale C, Kreider RB, Jäger R, Earnest CP, Bannock L, Campbell B, Kalman D, Ziegenfuss TN, Antonio J. International society of sports nutrition position stand: Beta-Alanine. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Jul 15;12:30. doi: 10.1186/s12970-015-0090-y. PMID: 26175657; PMCID: PMC4501114.
  • Bellinger PM. β-Alanine supplementation for athletic performance: an update. J Strength Cond Res. 2014 Jun;28(6):1751-70. doi: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000000327. PMID: 24276304.
  • Georgiou GD, Antoniou K, Antoniou S, Michelekaki EA, Zare R, Ali Redha A, Prokopidis K, Christodoulides E, Clifford T. Effect of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Maximal Intensity Exercise in Trained Young Male Individuals: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2024 Jul 19;34(6):397-412. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2024-0027. PMID: 39032921.
  • Huerta Ojeda Á, Tapia Cerda C, Poblete Salvatierra MF, Barahona-Fuentes G, Jorquera Aguilera C. Effects of Beta-Alanine Supplementation on Physical Performance in Aerobic-Anaerobic Transition Zones: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2020 Aug 19;12(9):2490. doi: 10.3390/nu12092490. PMID: 32824885; PMCID: PMC7551186.
  • Maté-Muñoz JL, Lougedo JH, Garnacho-Castaño MV, Veiga-Herreros P, Lozano-Estevan MDC, García-Fernández P, de Jesús F, Guodemar-Pérez J, San Juan AF, Domínguez R. Effects of β-alanine supplementation during a 5-week strength training program: a randomized, controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2018 Apr 25;15:19. doi: 10.1186/s12970-018-0224-0. PMID: 29713250; PMCID: PMC5918575.
  • Ostfeld I, Ben-Zeev T, Zamir A, Levi C, Gepner Y, Springer S, Hoffman JR. Role of β-Alanine Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Mood, and Physical Function in Older Adults; Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Study. Nutrients. 2023 Feb 12;15(4):923. doi: 10.3390/nu15040923. PMID: 36839281; PMCID: PMC9960300.

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Cocoa Can Save Your Life

Cocoa Powder

Health Benefits

Cocoa_Powder

Cocoa Powder

Why should you add it to your diet

Cocoa Powder might be a great addition to your diet to improve your health. Cocoa contains polyphenols, which are naturally occurring antioxidants. Cocoa also contains flavanols, and data shows that flavanols can reduce inflammation. 

Theobromine

And other Anti-oxidants

Theobromine found in cocoa is a natural alkaloid. Similar to caffeine’s affect on adenosine to make us feel more awake and alert, theobromine works similarly without  the jitters or stimulating affects of caffeine. Theobromine provides neuroprotection against age-related cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. In regards to weight loss, theobromine enhances fat breakdown and contributes to weight reduction.   The benefits of theobromine include: 

Summary of benefits

Take the first step to your healthiest self.

Cocoa powder offers numerous health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, it helps combat oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer. It supports cardiovascular health by improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and enhancing cholesterol levels. Cocoa powder also contains minerals such as magnesium, iron, and potassium, which support muscle function, oxygen transport, and electrolyte balance. Additionally, it may boost mood and cognitive function due to compounds like theobromine and phenylethylamine, which can promote feelings of well-being and mental clarity. Its low calorie and fat content, especially in unsweetened varieties, makes it a versatile ingredient for healthy recipes.

Best way to eat cocoa Power?

eat delicious while burning extra fat

Cocoa powder should be at least 75% cocoa. However, data suggests a higher percentage promotes better health outcomes. You can add cocoa powder to smoothies, cereals, oatmeal, baked goods, pancakes, coffee, yogurt, mix with peanut butter or add to fruit.

References


  • Journal Article A Hahn, Joshua A Virk, Hafeez Ul Hassan A Wang, Zhen A Tang, Wai Hong WA Krittanawong, Chayakrit
     T Abstract 14006: Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Theobromine in Cacao and Chocolate D 2021 J Circulation P A14006-A14006 V 144 N Suppl_1 R doi:10.1161/circ.144.suppl_1.14006 U https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/circ.144.suppl_1.14006
  • Mengjuan Zhang, Haifeng Zhang, Lu Jia, Yi Zhang, Runwen Qin, Shihua Xu, Yingwu Mei,
    Health benefits and mechanisms of theobromine,
    Journal of Functional Foods,
    Volume 115, 2024, 106126,
    ISSN 1756-4646, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2024106126.
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Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)

They Key to Anti-aging

As we get older, we lose the ability to produce certain molecules that help the body stay youthful. As we age, we experience greater amounts of inflammation, DNA damage, and slower metabolism. Some longevity experts claim aging is disease we all experience. However, anti-aging supplements may not actually prevent aging as much help aid in graceful aging. Nicotinaminde Mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. (NAD) Our bodies utilize NAD for variety of functions like energy metabolism, DNA repair, gene expression and cellular stress responses.  Throughout our lives, we lose concentrations of NAD, and supplementing with NMN could significantly improve many biomarkers and aid in longevity.

Additional benefits include:

Put NMN To the test

Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is a precursor to NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide), a vital coenzyme in cellular energy production and metabolic processes, offering several potential health benefits. NMN supplementation may enhance cellular repair and energy metabolism by boosting NAD+ levels, which decline with age, potentially slowing aging-related processes. It supports cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing oxidative stress.
 
NMN may also enhance insulin sensitivity, aiding in better blood sugar regulation, which is beneficial for metabolic health. Additionally, it shows promise in supporting cognitive function and neuroprotection, potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. While research is ongoing, NMN’s role in promoting mitochondrial function and overall cellular health makes it a compelling compound for longevity and wellness. 
 

How does NMN work when supplementation is put to the test for athletic performance and aging? In animal studies, NMN supplementation increase nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) concentrations and improves health span and lifespan.  A randomized clinical trial included 80 middle-aged health adults for 60-days taking a once daily oral dosing of 300, 600, and 900mg.

What were the results of the study?

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NMN Results

Randomize control trial of 80 middle aged adults taking NMN for 60 days saw significant improvements in the slowing of aging as well as athletic performance. 

Optimal dosage appears to be around a 600mg daily intake. However, safe and effective dosage drawn from the literature appears to be safe up to 1,000mg. Although, long term studies are currently in review. 

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References

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  • Shintaro Yamaguchi, Junichiro Irie, Masanori Mitsuishi, Yuichi Uchino, Hideaki Nakaya, Ryo Takemura, Emi Inagaki, Shotaro Kosugi, Hideyuki Okano, Masato Yasui, Kazuo Tsubota, Kaori Hayashi, Jun Yoshino, Hiroshi Itoh, Safety and efficacy of long-term nicotinamide mononucleotide supplementation on metabolism, sleep, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide biosynthesis in healthy, middle-aged Japanese men, Endocrine Journal, 2024, Volume 71, Issue 2, Pages 153-169, Released on J-STAGE February 28, 2024, Advance online publication January 06, 2024, Online ISSN 1348-4540, Print ISSN 0918-8959, https://doi.org/10.1507/endocrj.EJ23-0431, https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/endocrj/71/2/71_EJ23-0431/_article/-char/en, Abstract: