Vegetarian diets, if well-planned, are healthful and nutritious for all age groups and can help prevent and treat chronic diseases, according to an updated position paper released by the American Dietetic Association. The revised recommendations are published in the July issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association. The position was adopted by the House of Delegates Leadership Team in 1987 and was reaffirmed in 1992, 1996, 2000, and 2006; the updated position paper is to remain in effect until December 31, 2013.
"Common reasons for choosing a vegetarian diet include health considerations, concern for the environment, and animal welfare factors," write Winston J. Craig, PhD, MPH, RD, from Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and Ann Reed Mangels, PhD, RD, LDN, FADA, from the Vegetarian Resource Group in Baltimore, Maryland. "Vegetarians also cite economic reasons, ethical considerations, world hunger issues, and religious beliefs as their reasons for following their chosen eating pattern.... Individual assessment is required to accurately evaluate the nutritional quality of the diet of a vegetarian or a self-described vegetarian."
Defining and Planning a Vegetarian Diet
The American Dietetic Association defines a vegetarian diet, or lacto-ovo vegetarian diet, as one that does not include meat, fowl, seafood, or products containing those foods. The lacto-vegetarian diet also excludes eggs and primarily consists of grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, seeds, nuts, and dairy products. The vegan, or total vegetarian, eating pattern excludes eggs, dairy, and other animal products. Within these broad definitions, there is still variation in the degree to which animal products are excluded.
A well-planned vegetarian diet can meet current recommendations for all vital nutrients, including protein, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, zinc, iodine, calcium, and vitamins D and B-12. However, use of supplements or fortified foods may be helpful to boost intake of important nutrients in certain cases.
The American Dietetic Association contends that carefully planned vegetarian diets, including vegan diets, are healthful and nutritionally sufficient for individuals of all ages, including pregnant or lactating women, infants, children, adolescents, and athletes. During pregnancy, adherence to a nutritionally adequate vegetarian diet can lead to positive health outcomes for both the mother and infant.
Furthermore, well-constructed vegetarian diets may offer health benefits in terms of preventing and treating certain chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, obesity, and diabetes. Vegetarian diets are linked to lower risk for death from ischemic heart disease, according to findings of an evidence-based review. In addition, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and body mass index appear to be lower in vegetarians than in nonvegetarians, as do rates of hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.
The position paper also reviews available evidence concerning the effects of vegetarian diets on cardiovascular disease, obesity, osteoporosis, renal disease, dementia, diverticulitis, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Vitamin K
Vitamin K, or phytonadione, is a cofactor in the carboxylation of glutamate residues for coagulation factors II (prothrombin), VII, IX, and X and proteins C and S.
Consumption of green leafy vegetables, meats, and dairy products provides 50 percent of the body's vitamin K requirement. Stomach and intestinal flora synthesize the other 50 percent. Vitamin K deficiency impairs coagulation and leads to bleeding.
Bleeding may occur anywhere in the body and in some cases can be massive. In babies vitamin K deficiency is called hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. Areas of predilection include the umbilicus, skin, nose, mouth, intestines, and in the brain.vitamin K deficiencyin babies is caused by poor placental transfer of the vitamin from mother, inadequate dietary intake, and absent vitamin K synthesis by the gut. Premature infants are especially at risk for vitamin K deficiency. As prophylaxis, newborns are routinely given 1 mg of vitamin K intramuscularly at birth.
Several other factors may precipitate vitamin K deficiency. These include states of fat malabsorption
anorexia nervosa, and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Some drugs interfere with the physiologic role of vitamin K.
Newborns of mothers who take phenytoin are at increased risk for the development of bleeding disease.
The diagnosis can be confirmed by a prothrombin time measurement. phytonadione (vitamin K 1)injection is the treatment. Dosage is 5 to 10 mg in adults, 2 mg in young children, and 1 mg in newborns, who usually receive it routinely. Because coagulation factor synthesis requires several days, acute bleeding should be managed with fresh-frozen plasma.
Skin reactions occurring after vitamin K 1 injection occur rarely. These include an acute eczematous reaction and, more rarely, a late-onset localized sclerosis and atrophy resembling morphea.
Consumption of green leafy vegetables, meats, and dairy products provides 50 percent of the body's vitamin K requirement. Stomach and intestinal flora synthesize the other 50 percent. Vitamin K deficiency impairs coagulation and leads to bleeding.
Bleeding may occur anywhere in the body and in some cases can be massive. In babies vitamin K deficiency is called hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. Areas of predilection include the umbilicus, skin, nose, mouth, intestines, and in the brain.vitamin K deficiencyin babies is caused by poor placental transfer of the vitamin from mother, inadequate dietary intake, and absent vitamin K synthesis by the gut. Premature infants are especially at risk for vitamin K deficiency. As prophylaxis, newborns are routinely given 1 mg of vitamin K intramuscularly at birth.
Several other factors may precipitate vitamin K deficiency. These include states of fat malabsorption
anorexia nervosa, and prolonged antibiotic therapy. Some drugs interfere with the physiologic role of vitamin K.
Newborns of mothers who take phenytoin are at increased risk for the development of bleeding disease.
The diagnosis can be confirmed by a prothrombin time measurement. phytonadione (vitamin K 1)injection is the treatment. Dosage is 5 to 10 mg in adults, 2 mg in young children, and 1 mg in newborns, who usually receive it routinely. Because coagulation factor synthesis requires several days, acute bleeding should be managed with fresh-frozen plasma.
Skin reactions occurring after vitamin K 1 injection occur rarely. These include an acute eczematous reaction and, more rarely, a late-onset localized sclerosis and atrophy resembling morphea.
VITAMIN D
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin whose synthesis begins in the skin.
In vitamin D deficiency, calcium and phosphorus metabolism is deranged, and patients develop osteomalacia and muscle weakness
The main causes for acquired vitamin D deficiency include inadequate diet, malabsorption, and decreased exposure to solar ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation.
Elderly and debilitated patients are particularly predisposed
Although rigorous use of sunscreens can lead to vitamin D deficiency,
The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency also may develop due to inborn errors of metabolism.
In vitamin D–dependent rickets type I, renal vitamin D-1a -hydroxylase is decreased.
In vitamin D–dependent rickets type II, mutations in the nuclear vitamin D receptor cause resistance to physiologic levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
This causes not only musculoskeletal and endocrinologic disturbances but also loss of hair.
Massive doses of vitamin D and calcium treat all the findings except the hair loss
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin whose synthesis begins in the skin.
In vitamin D deficiency, calcium and phosphorus metabolism is deranged, and patients develop osteomalacia and muscle weakness
The main causes for acquired vitamin D deficiency include inadequate diet, malabsorption, and decreased exposure to solar ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation.
Elderly and debilitated patients are particularly predisposed
Although rigorous use of sunscreens can lead to vitamin D deficiency,
The symptoms of vitamin D deficiency also may develop due to inborn errors of metabolism.
In vitamin D–dependent rickets type I, renal vitamin D-1a -hydroxylase is decreased.
In vitamin D–dependent rickets type II, mutations in the nuclear vitamin D receptor cause resistance to physiologic levels of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D.
This causes not only musculoskeletal and endocrinologic disturbances but also loss of hair.
Massive doses of vitamin D and calcium treat all the findings except the hair loss
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin C plays an important role in the formation of collagen.
Vitamin C also aids iron absorption, increases bioavailability of selenium, and may increase the conversion of cholesterol to bile acid.
Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) usually is seen in individuals with inadequate intake of fresh fruits or vegetables, such as the elderly or those who abuse alcohol. In addition, the human vitamin C requirement is increased by smoking
Clinical manifestations often remain latent for several months following onset of severe vitamin C deficiency. Symptoms begin with body ache tiredeness and weakness.
skin problems start with follicular hyperkeratosis; the associated hair is often coiled or looped (corkscrew hairs). Hairs may be bent at multiple sites, leading to a swan-neck deformity. The main sites affected are the upper arms, back, buttocks, thighs, calves, and shins. Perifollicular purpura follows, particularly on the legs .
Old scars break down, and new wounds heal poorly. swelling of the legs also has been noted, and in the mouth, the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed; gumnecrosis may occur ultimately.
Patients respond quickly to the administration of oral vitamin C (100 mg three times daily). A daily intake of vitamin C in the form of fresh fruits or supplements should be ensured.
Vitamin C plays an important role in the formation of collagen.
Vitamin C also aids iron absorption, increases bioavailability of selenium, and may increase the conversion of cholesterol to bile acid.
Vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) usually is seen in individuals with inadequate intake of fresh fruits or vegetables, such as the elderly or those who abuse alcohol. In addition, the human vitamin C requirement is increased by smoking
Clinical manifestations often remain latent for several months following onset of severe vitamin C deficiency. Symptoms begin with body ache tiredeness and weakness.
skin problems start with follicular hyperkeratosis; the associated hair is often coiled or looped (corkscrew hairs). Hairs may be bent at multiple sites, leading to a swan-neck deformity. The main sites affected are the upper arms, back, buttocks, thighs, calves, and shins. Perifollicular purpura follows, particularly on the legs .
Old scars break down, and new wounds heal poorly. swelling of the legs also has been noted, and in the mouth, the gums become red, swollen, and may bleed; gumnecrosis may occur ultimately.
Patients respond quickly to the administration of oral vitamin C (100 mg three times daily). A daily intake of vitamin C in the form of fresh fruits or supplements should be ensured.
FOLIC ACID
FOLIC ACID
FOLIC ACID Folic acid acts as a coenzyme in purine and pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis.
Folic acid deficiency produces a megaloblastic anemia.
Defeciency: causes scaly papules and plaques on the face, trunk, and extremities, particularly on extensor surfaces. Stomatitis and glossitis may also develop.
Serum levels of folic acid are low. Prior to treatment with folate, it is important to rule out a coexisting vitamin B 12 deficiency. Otherwise, the folate supplementation will alleviate the megaloblastic anemia, but the neurologic damage (from vitamin B 12 deficiency) will continue to progress
FOLIC ACID Folic acid acts as a coenzyme in purine and pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis.
Folic acid deficiency produces a megaloblastic anemia.
Defeciency: causes scaly papules and plaques on the face, trunk, and extremities, particularly on extensor surfaces. Stomatitis and glossitis may also develop.
Serum levels of folic acid are low. Prior to treatment with folate, it is important to rule out a coexisting vitamin B 12 deficiency. Otherwise, the folate supplementation will alleviate the megaloblastic anemia, but the neurologic damage (from vitamin B 12 deficiency) will continue to progress
BIOTIN
BIOTIN
Biotin is a coenzyme in carboxylation reactions involved in fatty acid synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and amino acid catabolism.
It is found throughout the diet, particularly in egg yolks, legumes, and nuts. It is also synthesized by bacteria in the human gut.
Biotin deficiency may be acquired or may be due to inborn deficiency of either holocarboxylase synthetase or biotinidase.
Acquired biotin deficiency usually results from excess intake of egg whites. Egg whites contain avidin, which blocks absorption of biotin. Deficiency also has occurred in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition without added biotin.
The clinical features are fine desquamation on the extremities, periorificial eczema, alopecia, pallor, and atrophy of the tongue. Treatment with biotin 150 µg/day corrects symptoms within 1 week.
Biotin is a coenzyme in carboxylation reactions involved in fatty acid synthesis, gluconeogenesis, and amino acid catabolism.
It is found throughout the diet, particularly in egg yolks, legumes, and nuts. It is also synthesized by bacteria in the human gut.
Biotin deficiency may be acquired or may be due to inborn deficiency of either holocarboxylase synthetase or biotinidase.
Acquired biotin deficiency usually results from excess intake of egg whites. Egg whites contain avidin, which blocks absorption of biotin. Deficiency also has occurred in patients receiving total parenteral nutrition without added biotin.
The clinical features are fine desquamation on the extremities, periorificial eczema, alopecia, pallor, and atrophy of the tongue. Treatment with biotin 150 µg/day corrects symptoms within 1 week.
Vitamin B5 ( Pantothenic Acid)
PANTOTHENIC ACID (VITAMIN B 5) This is a component of coenzyme A and is involved in the process of acetylation. Its defeciency is found to cause burning sensation under the feet which improves on substituting the vitamin therapeutically
Vitamin B1 ( Thiamine)
Vitamin B1
VITAMIN B 1 (THIAMINE) Thiamine pyrophosphate is an enzyme involved in carbohydrate metabolism
Thiamine is obtained in the diet through consumption of poultry, milk, eggs, dry beans, peas, and enriched bread products.
Although it occurs naturally in brown rice and cereal grains, the “polishing” of rice and milling of grain cause it to be lost.
Thiamine deficiency causes two diseases.
In Asia, persons subsisting on polished-rice diets develop beri-beri, a disorder characterized by fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, polyneuritis, heart failure, edema, angular stomatitis, and glossitis.
In the United States, thiamine deficiency mainly results from poor dietary intake in association with alcoholism. This presents as the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, characterized by apathy, loss of memory, and confabulations.
Thiamine replacement is critical. Thiamine deficiency is often seen associated with other B-complex vitamin deficiencies as well as folate deficiency, and broad nutritional support is usually required.
VITAMIN B 1 (THIAMINE) Thiamine pyrophosphate is an enzyme involved in carbohydrate metabolism
Thiamine is obtained in the diet through consumption of poultry, milk, eggs, dry beans, peas, and enriched bread products.
Although it occurs naturally in brown rice and cereal grains, the “polishing” of rice and milling of grain cause it to be lost.
Thiamine deficiency causes two diseases.
In Asia, persons subsisting on polished-rice diets develop beri-beri, a disorder characterized by fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, polyneuritis, heart failure, edema, angular stomatitis, and glossitis.
In the United States, thiamine deficiency mainly results from poor dietary intake in association with alcoholism. This presents as the Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, characterized by apathy, loss of memory, and confabulations.
Thiamine replacement is critical. Thiamine deficiency is often seen associated with other B-complex vitamin deficiencies as well as folate deficiency, and broad nutritional support is usually required.
VITAMIN B 12 (CYANOCOBALAMIN)
Vitamin B12
Helps in DNA synthesis.
Vitamin B 12 is produced by the natural bacterial flora of animals and is believed to be obtained in the diet only from consumption of animal products.
Deficiency of vitamin B 12 occurs in several settings. Insufficient dietary intake occurs among alcoholics.
Malabsorption occurs when gastric synthesis of intrinsic factor is impaired, such as in a disease called autoimmune pernicious anemia or following stomach surgery.
intestinal absorption of vitamin B 12 may be decreased by tropical sprue, Crohn's disease, Zollinger-Ellison's syndrome, and Whipple's disease.
Alterations of gut flora, especially those caused by infection with Diphyllobothrium latum, reduce vitamin B 12 absorption.
Congenital lack of transcobalmin II, a B 12 transport protein, has been reported.
Because body stores of vitamin B 12 are large (4 mg) relative to the minimum daily requirement (2.5 µg), a deficiency state must persist for 3 to 6 years before symptoms develop.
The predominant cutaneous manifestation of vitamin B 12 deficiency is the development of generalized hyperpigmented macules and patches. These favor the skin of flexural areas, palmar creases, soles, knuckles, and oral mucosa. Nail plates develop longitudinal, hyperpigmented streaks. The hair may turn gray.
Vitamin B 12 deficiency caused by pernicious anemia is associated with vitiligo and alopecia areata.
The tongue may be beefy red and may burn
Systemic findings in vitamin B 12 deficiency include macrocytic anemia and occasional heart symptoms.
Synthesis of myelin is impaired, causing paresthesias, numbness of the extremities, ataxia, altered reflexes, and changes in mental status. If the deficiency is not corrected, serious degeneration may occur in the dorsal columns of the spinal cord.
Treatment with parenteral cyanocobalamin (1 mg per week for a month and then 1 mg per month thereafter) reduces fatigue in several days, corrects anemia in weeks, and reverses cutaneous changes in 1 year. Neurologic symptoms may resolve or persist.
Helps in DNA synthesis.
Vitamin B 12 is produced by the natural bacterial flora of animals and is believed to be obtained in the diet only from consumption of animal products.
Deficiency of vitamin B 12 occurs in several settings. Insufficient dietary intake occurs among alcoholics.
Malabsorption occurs when gastric synthesis of intrinsic factor is impaired, such as in a disease called autoimmune pernicious anemia or following stomach surgery.
intestinal absorption of vitamin B 12 may be decreased by tropical sprue, Crohn's disease, Zollinger-Ellison's syndrome, and Whipple's disease.
Alterations of gut flora, especially those caused by infection with Diphyllobothrium latum, reduce vitamin B 12 absorption.
Congenital lack of transcobalmin II, a B 12 transport protein, has been reported.
Because body stores of vitamin B 12 are large (4 mg) relative to the minimum daily requirement (2.5 µg), a deficiency state must persist for 3 to 6 years before symptoms develop.
The predominant cutaneous manifestation of vitamin B 12 deficiency is the development of generalized hyperpigmented macules and patches. These favor the skin of flexural areas, palmar creases, soles, knuckles, and oral mucosa. Nail plates develop longitudinal, hyperpigmented streaks. The hair may turn gray.
Vitamin B 12 deficiency caused by pernicious anemia is associated with vitiligo and alopecia areata.
The tongue may be beefy red and may burn
Systemic findings in vitamin B 12 deficiency include macrocytic anemia and occasional heart symptoms.
Synthesis of myelin is impaired, causing paresthesias, numbness of the extremities, ataxia, altered reflexes, and changes in mental status. If the deficiency is not corrected, serious degeneration may occur in the dorsal columns of the spinal cord.
Treatment with parenteral cyanocobalamin (1 mg per week for a month and then 1 mg per month thereafter) reduces fatigue in several days, corrects anemia in weeks, and reverses cutaneous changes in 1 year. Neurologic symptoms may resolve or persist.
VITAMIN B6 PYRIDOXINE
Vitamin B 6 occurs in three interchangeable forms: pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxal.
The active form in most enzyme systems is pyridoxal-5-phosphate.
Vitamin B 6 acts mainly as a coenzyme in the decarboxylation and transamination of a number of amino acids.
It also plays a role in the conversion of linoleic to arachidonic acid and in adrenocortical function.
The primary dietary sources of pyridoxine are meat, whole-grain cereals, green leafy vegetables, and potatoes.
The daily physiologic requirement of pyridoxine is 1 mg.
Clinical deficiency of pyridoxine may occur due to inadequate dietary intake, usually in conjunction with other vitamin deficiencies.
Alcoholism can lead to pyridoxine deficiency. Pyridoxine deficiency may be induced by drugs that increase excretion or decrease activity of the coenzyme, chiefly isoniazid, hydralazine, phenelzine, cycloserine, and penicillimine.
Oral contraceptives may alter pyridoxine metabolism but rarely cause clinical symptoms of deficiency.
Deficiency : causes seborrhea-like changes of the face, scalp, neck, shoulders, buttocks, and perineum. angular stomatitis(angle of mouth gets inflammed and fissured), cheilosis, glossitis, conjunctivitis, and intertrigo.
constitutional symptoms include anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. some individuals develop neurologic disturbances that include hyperesthesia, ascending paresthesia, altered vibration and position sense, and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes. Normochromic, normocytic anemia, lymphopenia, and eosinophilia may be seen
The active form in most enzyme systems is pyridoxal-5-phosphate.
Vitamin B 6 acts mainly as a coenzyme in the decarboxylation and transamination of a number of amino acids.
It also plays a role in the conversion of linoleic to arachidonic acid and in adrenocortical function.
The primary dietary sources of pyridoxine are meat, whole-grain cereals, green leafy vegetables, and potatoes.
The daily physiologic requirement of pyridoxine is 1 mg.
Clinical deficiency of pyridoxine may occur due to inadequate dietary intake, usually in conjunction with other vitamin deficiencies.
Alcoholism can lead to pyridoxine deficiency. Pyridoxine deficiency may be induced by drugs that increase excretion or decrease activity of the coenzyme, chiefly isoniazid, hydralazine, phenelzine, cycloserine, and penicillimine.
Oral contraceptives may alter pyridoxine metabolism but rarely cause clinical symptoms of deficiency.
Deficiency : causes seborrhea-like changes of the face, scalp, neck, shoulders, buttocks, and perineum. angular stomatitis(angle of mouth gets inflammed and fissured), cheilosis, glossitis, conjunctivitis, and intertrigo.
constitutional symptoms include anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. some individuals develop neurologic disturbances that include hyperesthesia, ascending paresthesia, altered vibration and position sense, and hypoactive deep tendon reflexes. Normochromic, normocytic anemia, lymphopenia, and eosinophilia may be seen
VITAMIN B2 OR RIBOFLAVIN
Riboflavin (vitamin B 2)
is found in milk, meat, fish, and eggs.
Deficiency of riboflavin occurs predominantly by diet of unenriched cereals.
Clinical deficiency usually occurs 3 to 5 months after an inadequate diet.
riboflavin deficiency develops in infants who are not fed milk after being weaned from breast-feeding.
riboflavin deficiency in humans mainly causes skin problems It may affect the mouth, eyes, and genital area and is known as the oro-oculogenital syndrome.
In the mouth, glossitis denudes the papillae and causes the tongue to appear magenta-colored.
Vertical fissures of the lip, termed cheilosis, develop.
A dermatitis similar to seborrheic dermatitis develops along the sides of the nose, cheeks, forehead, and behind the ears.
Eye problems associated with riboflavin deficiency are conjunctivitis and photophobia.
Dermatitis of the genital area may develop, followed by thickening of skin in chronic cases.
In men, dermatitis begins on the scrotum ,It may extend up the penis or onto the inner aspects of the thighs. In women, the vulva is affected..
anemia may occur. In children, retarded intellectual development . riboflavin deficiency usually responds promptly and dramatically to riboflavin supplementation. Therapy is with 1 to 3 mg/day in infants and 10 to 20 mg/day in adults.
is found in milk, meat, fish, and eggs.
Deficiency of riboflavin occurs predominantly by diet of unenriched cereals.
Clinical deficiency usually occurs 3 to 5 months after an inadequate diet.
riboflavin deficiency develops in infants who are not fed milk after being weaned from breast-feeding.
riboflavin deficiency in humans mainly causes skin problems It may affect the mouth, eyes, and genital area and is known as the oro-oculogenital syndrome.
In the mouth, glossitis denudes the papillae and causes the tongue to appear magenta-colored.
Vertical fissures of the lip, termed cheilosis, develop.
A dermatitis similar to seborrheic dermatitis develops along the sides of the nose, cheeks, forehead, and behind the ears.
Eye problems associated with riboflavin deficiency are conjunctivitis and photophobia.
Dermatitis of the genital area may develop, followed by thickening of skin in chronic cases.
In men, dermatitis begins on the scrotum ,It may extend up the penis or onto the inner aspects of the thighs. In women, the vulva is affected..
anemia may occur. In children, retarded intellectual development . riboflavin deficiency usually responds promptly and dramatically to riboflavin supplementation. Therapy is with 1 to 3 mg/day in infants and 10 to 20 mg/day in adults.
Vitamins of the B complex-Niacin
Vitamins of the B Complex
NIACIN (PELLAGRA) Niacin (vitamin B 3) is obtained in the diet or may be synthesized endogenously from an amino acid tryptophan,it plays important roles in carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism.
Deficiency can occur due to many reasons ,the most important cause has been inadequate dietary intake, chiefly in impoverished populations subsisting on corn-based diets.
Other populations at risk include alcoholics, elderly persons, homeless persons, and the mentally ill.
Classically, it occurs in impoverished populations subsisting on monotonous corn-based diets.
It is worth noting that corn does in fact contain sufficient quantities of niacin to meet human dietary needs; however, much of this exists in a bound form that is not absorbed easily. Bound niacin may be released by soaking corn in alkali prior to cooking, a traditional practice among native peoples of Mexico and Central America that was protective against pellagra.
In the early twentieth century, a pellagra epidemic that occurred in the southern United States was likely caused by the introduction of degermination, which reduced the niacin content of corn products by 25 to 40 percent.
Gastrointestinal malabsorption may cause pellagra.
The skin changes are characteristic,it causes a disease called Pellagra. The usual sites are the face and neck ,hands, arms, and feet. On the dorsa of the hands, the lesions may extend up the arms to form the “glove” or “gauntlet” of pellagra .
Specific therapy consists of the oral administration of 100 to 300 mg of niacinamide daily in divided doses. . Therapy may be given as injections by doctors when diarrhea or a noncooperative patient makes oral administration ineffective or difficult. Multivitamins (especially other vitamins of the B complex) and a high-quality protein diet should be given.
NIACIN (PELLAGRA) Niacin (vitamin B 3) is obtained in the diet or may be synthesized endogenously from an amino acid tryptophan,it plays important roles in carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism.
Deficiency can occur due to many reasons ,the most important cause has been inadequate dietary intake, chiefly in impoverished populations subsisting on corn-based diets.
Other populations at risk include alcoholics, elderly persons, homeless persons, and the mentally ill.
Classically, it occurs in impoverished populations subsisting on monotonous corn-based diets.
It is worth noting that corn does in fact contain sufficient quantities of niacin to meet human dietary needs; however, much of this exists in a bound form that is not absorbed easily. Bound niacin may be released by soaking corn in alkali prior to cooking, a traditional practice among native peoples of Mexico and Central America that was protective against pellagra.
In the early twentieth century, a pellagra epidemic that occurred in the southern United States was likely caused by the introduction of degermination, which reduced the niacin content of corn products by 25 to 40 percent.
Gastrointestinal malabsorption may cause pellagra.
The skin changes are characteristic,it causes a disease called Pellagra. The usual sites are the face and neck ,hands, arms, and feet. On the dorsa of the hands, the lesions may extend up the arms to form the “glove” or “gauntlet” of pellagra .
Specific therapy consists of the oral administration of 100 to 300 mg of niacinamide daily in divided doses. . Therapy may be given as injections by doctors when diarrhea or a noncooperative patient makes oral administration ineffective or difficult. Multivitamins (especially other vitamins of the B complex) and a high-quality protein diet should be given.
what is nutrition
Nutrition is the process by which living organisms assimilates food or other substances(i.e nutrients ) and uses them for life ,growth and maintenance of health. many diseases can be caused by defeciency of nutrients or by their excess.defeciency occurs due to inadequate intake of food, inadequate absorption from the gut,or due to chronic illness like cancer and AIDS where intake may be normal but the metabolic requirement of the body is increased.
VitaminA and its defeciency
VITAMINS
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an important role in development, epithelial proliferation, keratinization, and the transduction of visual images by the retina. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin found only in the animal kingdom. It is obtained in the diet through consumption of liver, fish, and other animal products. After absorption. Vitamin A also may be obtained in the diet through metabolism of carotenoids found in fruits and vegetables.
VITAMIN A DEFICIENCY
The principal causes of vitamin A deficiency are inadequate diet , fat malabsorption, and liver disease. Deficiency effects the visual system, the immune system, and the skin. Vitamin A deficiency has been associated with increased childhood mortality. It is known to cause night blindness and disease of the conjunctiva,sclera ( white patches representing shed corneal epithelium), and cornea .
Vitamin A deficiency is a leading cause of blindness, especially in children, throughout the developing world.
Vitamin A deficiency also has been shown to reduce immunity in a number of ways. Production of antibodies to bacteria becomes impaired. Natural killer cell number and function are decreased. Activity against viral infections (such as measles and HIV) and parasites is also diminished.
Severely malnourished persons with vitamin A deficiency exhibit skin changes termed dermomalacia. The skin over large areas of the body is dry, wrinkled, and covered with fine scales.
Vitamin A deficiency is assessed by measurement of the serum retinol level. Treatment of vitamin A deficiency with administration of 100,000 to 300,000 IU/day of retinol rapidly corrects some visual disturbances, although corneal ulcers are permanent. Skin changes respond over a period of weeks to months.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
what is Honey
Honey is a sweet aliment produced by honey bees ,and derived from the nectar of flowers. According to the United States National Honey Board and various international food regulations, "honey stipulates a pure product that does not allow for the addition of any other substance…this includes, but is not limited to, water or other sweeteners".Honey gets its sweetness from the monosaccharides fructose and glucose and has approximately the same relative sweetness as that of granulated sugar (97% of the sweetness of sucrose, a disaccharide).Most micro-organisms do not grow in honey because of its low water activity of 0.6.
The study of pollens and spores in raw honey (melissopalynology) can determine floral sources of honey. Because bees carry an electrostatic charge, and can attract other particles, the same techniques of melissopalynology can be used in area environmental studies of radioactive particles, dust, or particulate pollution
A main effect of bees collecting nectar to make honey is pollination, which is crucial for flowering plants
The study of pollens and spores in raw honey (melissopalynology) can determine floral sources of honey. Because bees carry an electrostatic charge, and can attract other particles, the same techniques of melissopalynology can be used in area environmental studies of radioactive particles, dust, or particulate pollution
A main effect of bees collecting nectar to make honey is pollination, which is crucial for flowering plants
weight reduction made easy
Follow the popular GM motors Diet
The following diet and health program was apparently developed for the employees and the dependants of General Motors Inc.The program was developed in conjunction with the grant from the US Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. It was first tried at the Johns Hopkins Research Centre and was approved for distribution by the Board of Directors of General Motors Corporation at a general meeting on August 15, 1995.
General Motors Corporation wholly endorsed this program and is making it available to all employees and families. This program will be available at all General Motors Food service facilities.It is the management’s intention to facilitate a welfare and fitness program for everyone.
This program is designed for a target weight loss of 5-6 Kgs. per week.
The following diet and health program was apparently developed for the employees and the dependants of General Motors Inc.The program was developed in conjunction with the grant from the US Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. It was first tried at the Johns Hopkins Research Centre and was approved for distribution by the Board of Directors of General Motors Corporation at a general meeting on August 15, 1995.
General Motors Corporation wholly endorsed this program and is making it available to all employees and families. This program will be available at all General Motors Food service facilities.It is the management’s intention to facilitate a welfare and fitness program for everyone.
This program is designed for a target weight loss of 5-6 Kgs. per week.
It will also improve your attitude and emotions because of its systematic cleansing effects. The effectiveness of this seven day plan is that the foods eaten burn more calories than they give to the body in caloric value. This plan can be used as often as you like to without any fear of complications. It is designed to flush your system of impurities and give you a feeling of well being. After seven days you will begin to feel lighter by atleast 10 pounds. You will have an abundance of energy and an improved disposition.
During the first seven days you must drink 10 glasses of water each day.
The Diet
Day One
All fruits except bananas. Your first day will consists of all fruits you want. It is suggested you consume lots of watermelon and cantaloupe.
Day Two
All vegetables. You are encouraged to eat until you are stuffed with all the new and cooked vegetables of your choice. There is no limit on the account or type. Avoid oil and coconut while cooking vegetables. Have large boiled potato for breakfast.
Day Three
Any mixture of fruits and vegetables of your choice. Any amount, any quantity. No bananas yet and no potatoes today.
Day Four
Bananas and milk. Today you will eat as many as eight bananas and drink three glasses of milk. You can also have one bowl of vegetables soup.
Day Five
Today is a feast day. You will eat 1 (one) cup of rice. You also have to eat 6 (six) whole tomatoes and drink 12 (twelve) glasses of water today to cleanse your system of the excess uric acid you will be producing.
Day Six
Today is another all vegetables day. You must eat 1 cup of rice today and eat all the vegetables you want cooked and uncooked to your heart's content.
Day Seven
Today your food intake will consist of 1 cup rice, fruit juice and all the vegetables you care to consume. Tomorrow morning you will be five to eight kilograms lighter than 1 week ago. If you desire further weight loss, repeat the program again. Repeat the program as often as you like, however, it is suggested that you rest for three days before every repetition.
You have your system under control now and it will thank you for all the purging and cleansing you just gave it. Even more than a diet program it is good to follow this diet once in a while to clean your digestive system and remove toxic substances that have a accumulated in the system.
General Motors Wonder Soup
The following soup is intended as a supplement to your diet. It can be eaten any time of the day in virtually unlimited quantities. You are encouraged to drink large quantities of this soup.
23 oz water
06 large onions
02 green peppers
03 whole tomatoes
1 cabbage
1 bunch celery - add herbs and seasoning as desired.
This program is highly recommended for women and men above 40 for whom excess weight is especially dangerous. Excess weight for women aggravates arthritis problems and leads to rapid joint decay. Pain and joint deterioration can be lessened by weight loss as weight loss removes the stress on the knee joint. Excess weight is the most critical factor in keeping good health and excess weight is responsible for the most problems including coronary diseases, heart problems, arthritis and cancer among other serious life threatening diseases. Most serious health problems can be avoided by the single function of maintaining an ideal weight. Daily mild exercise of 20 minutes is also essential. Do not tire yourself out, but being regular in your exercise and maintaining an ideal weight goes a long way in ensuring a happy, healthy and long life.
This article is published in good faith on this website assuming that all the material herein is in the public domain, as the intention of this article is a noble one. If you find that this article is copyrighted and is not supposed to be published without permission, please let me know by dropping me a note somewhere on this website.
During the first seven days you must drink 10 glasses of water each day.
The Diet
Day One
All fruits except bananas. Your first day will consists of all fruits you want. It is suggested you consume lots of watermelon and cantaloupe.
Day Two
All vegetables. You are encouraged to eat until you are stuffed with all the new and cooked vegetables of your choice. There is no limit on the account or type. Avoid oil and coconut while cooking vegetables. Have large boiled potato for breakfast.
Day Three
Any mixture of fruits and vegetables of your choice. Any amount, any quantity. No bananas yet and no potatoes today.
Day Four
Bananas and milk. Today you will eat as many as eight bananas and drink three glasses of milk. You can also have one bowl of vegetables soup.
Day Five
Today is a feast day. You will eat 1 (one) cup of rice. You also have to eat 6 (six) whole tomatoes and drink 12 (twelve) glasses of water today to cleanse your system of the excess uric acid you will be producing.
Day Six
Today is another all vegetables day. You must eat 1 cup of rice today and eat all the vegetables you want cooked and uncooked to your heart's content.
Day Seven
Today your food intake will consist of 1 cup rice, fruit juice and all the vegetables you care to consume. Tomorrow morning you will be five to eight kilograms lighter than 1 week ago. If you desire further weight loss, repeat the program again. Repeat the program as often as you like, however, it is suggested that you rest for three days before every repetition.
You have your system under control now and it will thank you for all the purging and cleansing you just gave it. Even more than a diet program it is good to follow this diet once in a while to clean your digestive system and remove toxic substances that have a accumulated in the system.
General Motors Wonder Soup
The following soup is intended as a supplement to your diet. It can be eaten any time of the day in virtually unlimited quantities. You are encouraged to drink large quantities of this soup.
23 oz water
06 large onions
02 green peppers
03 whole tomatoes
1 cabbage
1 bunch celery - add herbs and seasoning as desired.
This program is highly recommended for women and men above 40 for whom excess weight is especially dangerous. Excess weight for women aggravates arthritis problems and leads to rapid joint decay. Pain and joint deterioration can be lessened by weight loss as weight loss removes the stress on the knee joint. Excess weight is the most critical factor in keeping good health and excess weight is responsible for the most problems including coronary diseases, heart problems, arthritis and cancer among other serious life threatening diseases. Most serious health problems can be avoided by the single function of maintaining an ideal weight. Daily mild exercise of 20 minutes is also essential. Do not tire yourself out, but being regular in your exercise and maintaining an ideal weight goes a long way in ensuring a happy, healthy and long life.
This article is published in good faith on this website assuming that all the material herein is in the public domain, as the intention of this article is a noble one. If you find that this article is copyrighted and is not supposed to be published without permission, please let me know by dropping me a note somewhere on this website.
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