Archive for December 29th, 2009
Phytonutrients Defend Against Age-Related Diseases

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In the last ten years scientific research has validated the value of phytonutrients as a first line of defense against many age-related diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Phytonutrients are plant-based nutritional compounds. One of the outstanding phytonutrients is chia which is frequently called “the perfect food from Nature”. Chia seeds are loaded with many nutrients including protein, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fatty acids, and fiber. The chia seeds are edible and have a pleasant nutty flavor. Chia has been used as a food from Aztec times when it was a staple in their diet. In our time scientific research has documented chia’s ability to prevent a number of age-related diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. With over 55 million Americans currently estimated to be pre-diabetic any food that can support preemptive aging against diabetes needs to be taken seriously. The research indicates that chia can support a preemptive role in preventing diabetes and in reducing its effects in folks who are already suffering from it. In one study of diabetic patients who were at risk for heart disease those who took supplements of chia showed major improvment across a range of disease markers for diabetes including lipid profiles, inflammatory and clotting factors, and blood pressure. They also showed considerable improvement in the markers for cardiovascular disease including C-reactive protein and systolic blood pressure. Fortunately for seniors chia is available in the form of concentrated powders that will be effective in fostering senior health.

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