Spirulina (algae)

Algae are plants that grow in water. Spirulina is a tiny water plant which grows in water, probably the most important in health terms, of all algae. High in proteins with a wide range of other nutrients including beta-carotene which offers protection by boosting the immune system and it is particularly valued by vegetarians.   Spirulina, a blue-green bacteria or algae is also rich in Linolenic acid (omega 3) which is necessary for the production of prostaglandins for an anti inflammatory effect. GLA (gamma linolenic acid) has been proven to improve symptoms of diabetes significantly.

 

Spirulina was used as a staple food by the Aztecs of Mexico and is now marketed as a high protein food supplement.

 

Seaweeds are another form of algae too, and it is thought to have many qualities, including an ability to protect against cancer. Seaweeds may help to reduce the effects of carcinogenics including radioactive material and are therefore useful for reducing the damage done by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

 

Seaweeds appear in many foods, medicines and cosmetics and have been used therapeutically for thousands of years Rich in iodine they are used worldwide in the treatment of goiter. They are believed to have antiviral activity.

 

Seaweeds are believed to be natural antacids and are useful in treating intestinal disorders.

 

 

What's good about algae?

• Rich in nutrients and high in protein (particularly useful for vegetarians)
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• May help to suppress the appetite
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• Used to maintain skin health and to treat skin disorders
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• May help to contribute to the health of intestines
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• General tonic properties
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• Many have anticancer properties

Essential Fatty Acids

Omega-3

Essential Fatty Acids, also called E.F.A.s, are fats required by the body, but not manufactured by it. They work to strengthen the membranes of the cells and to promote the growth of muscles and nerves. Fish oils and evening primrose oil are among the richest dietary source of essential fatty acids.

 
Tinned fish is often fresher than 'fresh' fish as it is frozen, cooked and canned within 2 days whereas 'fresh' fish can be up to 14 days old when sold. Tuna is the only tinned fish which loses it's omega-3 on the canning process.

Natural anti-inflammatories, E.F.A.s are useful in the treatment of arthritis, asthma and a number of skin conditions. They are also used therapeutically to thin the blood and to prevent blood clotting.

 

The two main essential fatty acids are linoleic acid and linolenic acid, also known as omega-6 and omega-3 oils respectively. Both are vital for the brain and nervous system, the immune system, the hormonal system, the cardiovascular system and the skin. The first sign of their deficiency is a dry skin, dry eyes and a greater than normal thirst.

 

Seeds in general but especially sesame and sunflower seeds are rich in linoleic acid (omega-6), while pumpkin and flax seeds (edible linseeds) are rich in linolenic acid (omega-3).

 

Linoleic acid (omega-6) converts in the body into two further substances: gamma linolenic acid (G.L.A.) and di-homo-linolenic acid (D.G.L.A.) which is further converted to arachidonic acid (A.A.).

 

Linolenic acid (omega-3) is converted into eicosapentoniic acid (E.P.A.) and docosahexenoic acid (D.H.A.)

 

E.P.A. and D.H.A. are also found in fatty fish such as mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines.

 

Further to this D.G.L.A., A.A. and E.P.A. go on to produce prostaglandins which have a regulatory effect on the body and an anti-inflammatory effect.

 

Research suggests that E.F.A.s are necessary to balance the calcium in the body, particularly the bones. Omega-3 oils may slow down the loss of calcium in the urine, which includes some lost from the bones. Omega-6 oils will help the body to absorb calcium.

 

 

What's good about fish oils:

• Can counteract the effects of some immunosuppressive drugs.
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• May help the treatment of kidney disease.
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• May help prevent cancer, in particular breast cancer.
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• Stops the progression of arthritis.
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• May help to protect against hypertension (high blood pressure).
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• May help to treat psoriasis.
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• Fish oils are now believed to improve overall health conditions, the best sources of which are herring, salmon, tuna, cod and prawns.

Tinned fish is often fresher than 'fresh' fish as it is frozen, cooked and canned within 2 days whereas 'fresh' fish can be up to 14 days old when sold. Tuna is the only tinned fish which loses it's omega-3 on the canning process.
 

For most people it is enough to increase intake of fish and seafood in order to achieve benefits of fish oils in natural form without taking supplements. People suffering from arthritis or psoriasis can take up to 4g daily fish oil supplements with physician supervision. Maximum suggested dosage without physician supervision is 900mg per day. Caution - fish oils may be harmful in diabetics since they can cause an increase in blood sugar level and a decline in insulin secretion.

Magnesium

The mineral magnesium is required for virtually every biochemical process in the body including metabolism and the synthesis of both nucleic acids and proteins and deficiencies are fairly common. Many symptoms can signal deficiency, including a poor circulation, palpitations, muscles spasms and cramps, nervousness and anxiety among others. Stress can deplete magnesium levels as can a high consumption of tea and coffee. Magnesium deficiency is common among those who exercise too hard.

What's good about magnesium:
repairs and maintains body cells
necessary for hormonal activity of the body
required for most body processes including energy production
balances and controls potassium, calcium and sodium
helps to bind calcium to tooth enamel
antidiabetic
required for contraction and relaxation of muscles including the heart
required for transmission of nerve impulses
required for growth and repair
necessary for bone development

Good sources:
Brown rice, soybeans, black eyed peas, nuts, brewer's yeast, wholegrains, bitter chocolate, legumes.
NB: Magnesium supplements can be toxic to people with renal problems or atrioventricular blocks. Otherwise magnesium should be very safe. Very rarely symptoms of excess can occur including flushing, of the skin, low blood pressure, thirst and shallow breathing. The contraceptive pill, chronic diarhea, IBS, high consumption of tea and coffee and use of laxatives will also compromise magnesium levels. Stress both emotional and physical can deplete magnesium levels and requirements will increase in stressful periods of life.

Essential Fatty Acids

Omega-3