Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Fruits - Cantaloupe (Cucumis melo reticulatus) Health Benefits and Side Effects

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Cantaloupe Cantaloupe is a species in the family Cucurbitaceae, ranging from the size of 500g to 5.00kg and were original cultivated (The European cantaloupe) by the Egytian and in India and Africa (The North American cantaloupe).

Nutritonal Supplements
1. Carbohydrates
2. Sugars
3. Fiber
4. Fat
5. Protein
6. Water
7. Vitamin A (beta-carotene)
8. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
9. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
10. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
11. Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
12. Vitamin B6
13. Folate (Vitamin B9)
14. Vitamin B12
15. Vitamin C
16. Vitamin E
17. Vitamin K
18. Calcium
19. Iron
20. Magnesium
21.Phosphorus
22. Zinc
23. Etc.

Health Benefits
A. Health benefits according to studies
1.
Lipid peroxidation (LPO)
In the evaluation of the pharmacological importance of fruit peel extracts of Mangifera indica (MI), Citrullus vulgaris (CV) and Cucumis melo (CM) with respect to the possible regulation of tissue lipid peroxidation (LPO), thyroid dysfunctions, lipid and glucose metabolism found that
three test peel extracts significantly increased both the thyroid hormones (T(3) and T(4)) with a concomitant decrease in tissue LPO, suggesting their thyroid stimulatory and antiperoxidative role. This thyroid stimulatory nature was also exhibited in propylthiouracil (PTU) induced hypothyroid animals. However, only minor influence was observed in serum lipid profile in which CM reduced the concentrations of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), while CV decreased triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (VLDL-C).(VLDL-C), according to "Protective role of Mangifera indica, Cucumis melo and Citrullus vulgaris peel extracts in chemically induced hypothyroidism" by Parmar HS, Kar A.(a)

2. Antioxidants
In the investigation of the neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and chemopreventive actions of dietary flavonoids found in Cantaloupe indicated that a clear understanding of the mechanisms of action of flavonoids, either as antioxidants or modulators of cell signalling, and the influence of their metabolism on these properties are key to the evaluation of these potent biomolecules as anticancer agents, cardioprotectants, and inhibitors of neurodegeneration, according to "
Flavonoids: antioxidants or signalling molecules?" by Robert J Williams, Jeremy P.E Spencer, Catherine Rice-Evans(b)

3.
Antimutagenic effects
In the investigation of Six fragrant ingredients were identified in fully-ripened Katsura-uri( (Japanese pickling melon; Cucumis melo var. conomon), including four of them were sulfur-containing compounds [methylthioacetic acid ethyl ester (MTAE), acetic acid 2-methylthio ethyl ester (AMTE), 3-methylthiopropionic acid ethyl ester (MTPE), and acetic acid 3-methylthio propyl ester (AMTP)] and theirs antimutagenic effects found that AMTE, MTPE, AMTP, and eugenol had higher oxygen radical absorbing capacity than the antioxidative vitamin, ascorbic acid. The quantity of MTPE, AMTP and eugenol increased 49-fold, >1175-fold and 11-fold, respectively, in the fully-ripened fruit as compared to the mid-ripened fruit, according to "Antimutagenic; differentiation-inducing; and antioxidative effects of fragrant ingredients in Katsura-uri (Japanese pickling melon; Cucumis melo var. conomon)" by Nakamura Y, Watanabe S, Kageyama M, Shirota K, Shirota K, Amano H, Kashimoto T, Matsuo T, Okamoto S, Park EY, Sato K.(c)

4. Anti cancers
In the determination of the effects of vitamin A found abundantly inCantaloupe and its anti-cancer-preventive activity found that carotenoids and vitamin A shared other protective mechanisms, such as scavenging of genotoxic oxygen species, modulation of signal transduction pathways, inhibition of cell transformation induced by physical and chemical agents, and facilitation of intercellular communication inhibited by genotoxic compounds. Therefore, carotenoids and vitamin A appear to work via multiple mechanisms, which would support a potential protective role in cancer initiation and in the pathogenesis of other mutation-related diseases, according to "Modulation of genotoxic and related effects by carotenoids and vitamin A in experimental models: mechanistic issues" by De Flora S, Bagnasco M, Vainio H.(d)

5. Etc.

B. Health benefits according to concentration
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is not only important in preventing types I diabetes, according to "A close relationship between type 1 diabetes and vitamin A-deficiency and matrix metalloproteinase and hyaluronidase activities in skin tissues" by Takahashi N, Takasu S.(1) but also may be associated with compromised bone health, according to "Vitamins and bone health: beyond calcium and vitamin D" by Ahmadieh H, Arabi A.(I)

2. Vitamin C
In the evaluation of pulmonary dysfunction. and it effects on pulmonary dysfunction found that At present, evidence from randomised-controlled trials is insufficient to recommend a specific role for vitamin C in the treatment of asthma. Further methodologically strong and large-scale randomised controlled trials are needed in order to address the question of the effectiveness of vitamin C in children with asthma but some outcome data showed effectiveness on lung function, symptom scores, IgE levels and inhaled steroid use. One small study showed a significant difference in % drop in FEV1 post-exercise, according to the study of "Vitamin C supplementation for asthma" by Kaur B, Rowe BH, Arnold E.(II)

3. Potassium
Potassium beside is important in maintaining the regular contraction and relaxation of the muscle, that helps to reducing the risk of hypokalemia, it also helps the lymphatic system in regulating the levels of fluid in the body, thus lessening the risk of lymphedema, swelling caused by the accumulation of lymph fluid. In a study of "Narrative review: evolving concepts in potassium homeostasis and hypokalemia" by Greenlee M, Wingo CS, McDonough AA, Youn JH, Kone BC., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19414841), researchers found that recent experimental insights into the participation of feedback and feedforward control mechanisms in potassium homeostasis. New data make clear that feedforward homeostatic responses activate when decreased potassium intake is sensed, even when plasma potassium concentration is still within the normal range and before frank hypokalemia ensues, in addition to the classic feedback activation of renal potassium conservation when plasma potassium concentration decreases.

4. Folate
In the investigation of the prevalence and multifactorial etiology of anemia among Indian human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected children and its effect on anemia, found that Anemia, particularly iron deficiency anemia and anemia of inflammation, is highly prevalent among children with HIV infection. Micronutrient supplements (iron and, folate) combined with ART(antiretroviral therapy) improved anemia in HIV-infected children, according to "The prevalence and etiology of anemia among HIV-infected children in India" by Shet A, Arumugam K, Rajagopalan N, Dinakar C, Krishnamurthy S, Mehta S, Shet AS.(III)

5. Vitamin B6
a. Memory Improvements
In the investigation of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and Memory Improvements found that The multivitamin improved speed of response on a measure of spatial working memory, according to ""Memory improvements in elderly women following 16 weeks treatment with a combined multivitamin, mineral and herbal supplement : A randomized controlled trial" by Macpherson H, Ellis KA, Sali A, Pipingas A.(IV)

b. Anti cancer effects
In the observation of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and its anti cancer effects found that vitamin B6 is involved in the methyl donor cycle ant thus, some of the antitumor properties of vitamin B6 may involve an indirect effect on the level of DNA or histone methylation. according to ""Vitamin B6 and cancer: from clinical data to molecularly mechanisms" by Sujol G, Docquier A, Boulahtouf A, Castet-Nicolas A, Cavaillès V.(V)

6. Vitamin B3
In the evaluation of vitamin B3 and its effect on hyperpigmentation found that Niacinamide induces a decrease in pigmentation, inflammatory infiltrate, and solar elastosis. Niacinamide is a safe and effective therapeutic agent for this condition, according to "Natural options for the management of hyperpigmentation" by Leyden JJ, Shergill B, Micali G, Downie J, Wallo W.(VI)

7. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Polyphenol antioxidants
Since it contains high amount of polyphenol antioxidants, it helps to
a) Reduce the risk of heart attack and improve over all cardiovascular system, according to "Polyphenols and Cardiovascular Disease: A Critical Summary of the Evidence" by Visioli F, Davalos A.(1)
b) Reduce the risk of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, according to "The effects of polyphenol-containing antioxidants on oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications" by Fenercioglu AK, Saler T, Genc E, Sabuncu H, Altuntas Y.(2)

2. Constipation
Since it contains high amount of fiber and water, it improves the digestive track in secreting waste easier, thus reducing the the risk of constipation, according to "A dietary fiber mixture versus lactulose in the treatment of childhood constipation: a double-blind randomized controlled trial" by Kokke FT, Scholtens PA, Alles MS, Decates TS, Fiselier TJ, Tolboom JJ, Kimpen JL, Benninga MA.(3)

3. Skin healing
The high amount of vitamin K protects skin by speeding up skin healing and reducing bruising and swelling, according to "Dietary intake in clients with chronic wounds" by Wojcik A, Atkins M, Mager DR.(4)

4. Blood circulation
Iron beside is important in enhance the oxygen absorption ti nourish the cells and organs in the body but also form a vital role in the effect of Erythropoietic Stimulating Agents (ESA) hyporesponsiveness, according to "Effects of Iron Supplementation on Erythropoietic Response in Patients with Cancer-Associated Anemia Treated by Means of Erythropoietic Stimulating Agents" by Karlsson T.(5)

5. Etc.

Side Effects
1. It may cause allergic reaction for some people
2. Since it contain high amount of sugar, people with high blood sugar should consult with their doctor beforing eating it.
3. No other known side effect.


Sources
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19059228
(b) http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0891584904000334
(c) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20801232
(d) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10229917

(I) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21967159
(II) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185

(III) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22009132
(IV) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22006207
(V)) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22001823
(VI) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21623927

(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22070684
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19834314
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18979582
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21645427
(5) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22111015


Super foods Library, Eat Yourself Healthy With The Best of the Best Nature Has to Offer

For the world most healthy foods lists, visit http://healthy-foods-index.blogspot.com/2011/03/healthy-foods-list.html,
For other health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Vegetables - Broccoli (Calabrese cultivar) Health benefits and Side Effects

[Medical Advisor journals] [The world healthy foods List] [The world healthy food recipes]

Broccoli
Broccoli is a mustard/cabbage plant, belong to the family Brassicaceae. It has large flower heads, usually green in color and the mass of flower heads is surrounded by leaves and evolved from a wild cabbage plant on the continent of Europe.

Nutritional Supplements

1. Carbohydrates
2. Sugars
3. Dietary fiber
4. Omega 3 fatty acid
5. Protein
6. Beta-carotene
7. Lutein and
8. Zeaxanthin
9. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
10. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
11. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
12. Pantothenic acid (B5)
13. Vitamin B6
14. Folate (Vit. B9)
15. Vitamin C
16. Calcium
17. Tryptophan
18. Iron
19. Magnesium
20. Phosphorus
21.Potassium
22. Zinc
23. Etc.

Health Benefits

A. Health benefits according to studies
1. Potential health benefits
In the investigation of cruciferous vegetables which include broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower and theirs bioactive components in functional foods effect for the improvement of health found that the molecular basis of the biological activities of the chemicals present in broccoli potentially responsible for health promotion, from chemoprevention to cardio protection, are outlined based on in vitro and in vivo studies with a note on the structure activity relationship of sulforaphane and a few other isothiocyanates, according to "Potential health benefits of broccoli- a chemico-biological overview" by Vasanthi HR, Mukherjee S, Das DK.(a)

2. Chemical carcinogens
In the classification of edible plants belonging to the family Cruciferae and genus Brassica (e.g., broccoli and cauliflower) and its isothiocyanates (mostly in the form of their glucosinolate precursors) effect found that sprouts of many broccoli cultivars contain negligible quantities of indole glucosinolates, which predominate in the mature vegetable and may give rise to degradation products (e.g., indole-3-carbinol) that can enhance tumorigenesis. Hence, small quantities of crucifer sprouts may protect against the risk of cancer as effectively as much larger quantities of mature vegetables of the same variety, according to "Broccoli sprouts: an exceptionally rich source of inducers of enzymes that protect against chemical carcinogens" by Fahey JW, Zhang Y, Talalay P.(b)

3. Anti cancers
In the evaluation of consumption of cruciferous vegetables (compared with total fruit and vegetable consumption) and its effect in reducing cancer risk at several organ sites found that these experiments provide very strong evidence for a major role of phase 2 enzymes in controlling the risk of exposure to carcinogens. An increasing number of phase 2 proteins that exert a variety of protective mechanisms are being identified. Thus, in addition to detoxifying electrophiles, these proteins exercise versatile, long-lasting and catalytic antioxidant protection, according to "Phytochemicals from cruciferous plants protect against cancer by modulating carcinogen metabolism" by Talalay P, Fahey JW.(c)

4. Prostate cancer cells
In the research of Broccoli and its effect against prostate cancer found that Selenium-enriched broccoli sprouts were superior to normal broccoli sprouts in inhibiting cell proliferation, decreasing prostate-specific antigen secretion, and inducing apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. Furthermore, selenium-enriched broccoli sprouts but, not normal broccoli sprouts, induced a downregulation of the survival Akt/mTOR pathway, according to "Selenium enrichment of broccoli sprout extract increases chemosensitivity and apoptosis of LNCaP prostate cancer cells" by Abdulah R, Faried A, Kobayashi K, Yamazaki C, Suradji EW, Ito K, Suzuki K, Murakami M, Kuwano H, Koyama H.(d)

5. Etc.

B. Health benefits according to concentration
1. Vitamin C
In the evaluation of pulmonary dysfunction. and it effects on pulmonary dysfunction found that At present, evidence from randomised-controlled trials is insufficient to recommend a specific role for vitamin C in the treatment of asthma. Further methodologically strong and large-scale randomised controlled trials are needed in order to address the question of the effectiveness of vitamin C in children with asthma but some outcome data showed effectiveness on lung function, symptom scores, IgE levels and inhaled steroid use. One small study showed a significant difference in % drop in FEV1 post-exercise, according to the study of "Vitamin C supplementation for asthma" by Kaur B, Rowe BH, Arnold E.(I)

2. Vitamin K
a. Degenerative diseases of ageing
Long-term vitamin K inadequacy may reduce the function of supporting the carboxylation of at least some of these Gla-protein that can lead the development of degenerative diseases of ageing including osteoporosis and atherosclerosis, according to the study of "Vitamin K, osteoporosis and degenerative diseases of ageing" by Cees Vermeer and Elke Theuwissen(II)

b. Intracranial bleeding
In a study in the 4-year study period, 16/64 (25%) of the infants admitted with intracranial bleeding had late intracranial VKDB, resulting in an overall incidence of 2.1/100,000 live births (95% confidence interval 1.2-3.5) conducted by University Medical Center Utrecht(III) indicated that Intracranial bleeding may be associated with vitamin K deficiency.

3. Folate
Folate beside is important for the production of red blood cells, and for the proper development of the brain, it also helps to enhance the replication and maintain DNA and RNA, thus reducing the risk of birth defects, in a study of "Go folic!" by Bland J., posted in PubMed, researchers state that in order to prevent neural tube defects (NTDs), and proactively prevent new cases of spina bifida and hydrocephalus, it is essential that women take folic acid well before becoming pregnant. Through the use of social networks, and the voice of healthcare professionals, it is hoped that more women than ever before will receive the Go Folic! message and start taking the 400mcg/day required to ensure the development of a healthy brain and spine.

4. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is not only important in preventing types I diabetes, according to "A close relationship between type 1 diabetes and vitamin A-deficiency and matrix metalloproteinase and hyaluronidase activities in skin tissues" by Takahashi N, Takasu S.(1) but also may be associated with compromised bone health, according to "Vitamins and bone health: beyond calcium and vitamin D" by Ahmadieh H, Arabi A.(IV)

5. Manganese
Manganese beside plays an vital role for the proper and normal growth of human bone structure (accodring to the study of "Bone formation within alumina tubes: effect of calcium, manganese, and chromium dopants" by Pabbruwe MB, Standard OC, Sorrell CC, Howlett CR., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15109850)), it also helps to reduce the risk of cancer, (according to the study of "The effects of 3, 4 or 5 amino salicylic acids on manganese-induced neuronal death: ER stress and mitochondrial complexes" by Yoon H, Lee GH, Kim DS, Kim KW, Kim HR, Chae HJ., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21477646 researchers indicated that the salicylate analogues and the antioxidants did not mediate ER stress in this model. The salicylate analogues reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reversed the deficient mitochondrial membrane potential that was induced by Mn. Taken together, the 3, 4, 5 ASA worked in a similar way, regulating the Mn-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and protecting cells.

6. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Breast Cancer
Broccoli contains high amount of Sulforaphane which protects against all types of cancer due to its similar structure (phytonutrients) like other cruciferous vegetables, including breast cancer, according to "Sulforaphane, a dietary component of broccoli/broccoli sprouts, inhibits breast cancer stem cells" by Li Y, Zhang T, Korkaya H, Liu S, Lee HF, Newman B, Yu Y, Clouthier SG, Schwartz SJ, Wicha MS, Sun D.(1)

2. Free radicals
Broccoli helps to fight against the forming of free radical by detoxificating and cleansing the toxins accumulated in the body, according to "Effect of broccoli (Brassica oleracea) and its phytochemical sulforaphane in balanced diets on the detoxification enzymes levels of tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) exposed to a carcinogenic and mutagenic pollutant" by Villa-Cruz V, Davila J, Viana MT, Vazquez-Duhalt R.(2)

3. Diabetes
Since it contains high amount of fiber, it helps to improve the digestive system in carbohydrate metabolism by releasing the sugar slowly into blood stream that reduces the pancrease stress cause of insulin sensitive, according to 'Broccoli sprouts reduce oxidative stress in type 2 diabetes: a randomized double-blind clinical trial" by Bahadoran Z, Mirmiran P, Hosseinpanah F, Hedayati M, Hosseinpour-Niazi S, Azizi F.(3)

4. Coagulation
Since it contains high amount of vitamin K, it helps to protect the underlayer of skin and prevent the skin damage caused by ultra violet sun light. Vitamin K also has a coagulative effect, according to "Vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors deficiency" by Brenner B, Kuperman AA, Watzka M, Oldenburg J.(4)

5. Etc.

Side effects
1. People who has over production of IgM immunoglobulins which makes blood thicken should talk to their doctor before taking high amount of broccoli.
2. Allergic reaction??
3. Etc.

Super foods Library, Eat Yourself Healthy With The Best of the Best Nature Has to Offer

For the world most healthy foods lists, visit http://healthy-foods-index.blogspot.com/2011/03/healthy-foods-list.html,
For other health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

Sources
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19519500
(b) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9294217
(c) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11694642

(I) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185
(II) http://mi.rsmjournals.com/content/17/1/19.abstract
(III) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21967159
(IV) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185

(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20388854
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19144376
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21559038
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19598072

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Nuts & Seeds - Olive (Olea europaea) Oil Health Benefits and Side Effects

[Medical Advisor journals] [The world healthy foods List] [The world healthy food recipes]


Olive Oil
Olive is belongs to the the family Oleaceae, native to the coastal areas of the eastern Mediterranean Basin and south end of the Caspian Sea. Its fruit, is also called the olive and the source of olive oil.

Olive Oil: Fat Contains
1. Saturated fats
a. Palmitic acid
b. Stearic acid
c. Arachidic acid
d. ehenic acid
e. Myristic acid
f. Lignoceric acid
2. Unsaturated fat
3. Monounsaturated fats
a. Oleic acid
b. Palmitoleic acid
4. Polyunsaturated fats
a. Linoleic acid
b. Linolenic acid

Health Benefits
A. Health Benefits according to studies
1.
Cardiovascular health
In the investigation of
the olive oil of the primary source of fat used in Mediterranean diet, found that olive oil consumption could contribute to explaining the low rate of cardiovascular mortality found in southern European-Mediterranean countries, according to "Olive oil and cardiovascular health" by Covas MI, Konstantinidou V, Fitó M.(a)

2.
Olive oil phenolics
In the evaluation of the olive oil phenolics of the Mediterranean diet and its lower incidence of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer, found that olive oil phenolics have positive effects on certain physiological parameters, such as plasma lipoproteins, oxidative damage, inflammatory markers, platelet and cellular function, and antimicrobial activity, according to "Chemistry and health of olive oil phenolics" by Cicerale S, Conlan XA, Sinclair AJ, Keast RS.(b)

3. Antioxidants and weight loss
In the
analyzing the influence of a Mediterranean dietary pattern on plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) found that Mediterranean diet, especially rich in virgin olive oil, is associated with higher levels of plasma antioxidant capacity. Plasma TAC is related to a reduction in body weight after 3 years of intervention in a high cardiovascular risk population with a Mediterranean-style diet rich in virgin olive oil, according to "A 3 years follow-up of a Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil is associated with high plasma antioxidant capacity and reduced body weight gain" by Razquin C, Martinez JA, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Mitjavila MT, Estruch R, Marti A.(c)

4. Anti cancers
In assessment of the intake of olive oil in daily diet and its anti-cancers effect found that
compared with the lowest, the highest category of olive oil consumption was associated with lower odds of having any type of cancer (log odds ratio = -0.41, 95%CI -0.53, -0.29, Cohran's Q = 47.52, p = 0.0002, I-sq = 62%); the latter was irrespective of the country of origin (Mediterranean or non-Mediterranean). Moreover, olive oil consumption was associated with lower odds of developing breast cancer (logOR = -0,45 95%CI -0.78 to -0.12), and a cancer of the digestive system (logOR = -0,36 95%CI -0.50 to -0.21), compared with the lowest intake, maccording to "Olive oil intake is inversely related to cancer prevalence: a systematic review and a meta-analysis of 13,800 patients and 23,340 controls in 19 observational studies" by Psaltopoulou T, Kosti RI, Haidopoulos D, Dimopoulos M, Panagiotakos DB.(d)

5.
Healthy effect of virgin olive oil
According to "
International conference on the healthy effect of virgin olive oil" by
Perez-Jimenez F, Alvarez de Cienfuegos G, Badimon L, Barja G, Battino M, Blanco A, Bonanome A, Colomer R, Corella-Piquer D, Covas I, Chamorro-Quiros J, Escrich E, Gaforio JJ, Garcia Luna PP, Hidalgo L, Kafatos A, Kris-Etherton PM, Lairon D, Lamuela-Raventos R, Lopez-Miranda J, Lopez-Segura F, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Mata P, Mataix J, Ordovas J, Osada J, Pacheco-Reyes R, Perucho M, Pineda-Priego M, Quiles JL, Ramirez-Tortosa MC, Ruiz-Gutierrez V, Sanchez-Rovira P, Solfrizzi V, Soriguer-Escofet F, de la Torre-Fornell R, Trichopoulos A, Villalba-Montoro JM, Villar-Ortiz JR, Visioli F. indicated that
5.1. Ageing represents a great concern in developed countries because the number of people involved and the pathologies related with it, like atherosclerosis, morbus Parkinson, Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, cognitive decline, diabetes and cancer.
5.2. Epidemiological studies suggest that a Mediterranean diet (which is rich in virgin olive oil) decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5.3. The Mediterranean diet, rich in virgin olive oil, improves the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as the lipoprotein profile, blood pressure, glucose metabolism and antithrombotic profile. Endothelial function, inflammation and oxidative stress are also positively modulated. Some of these effects are attributed to minor components of virgin olive oil. Therefore, the definition of the Mediterranean diet should include virgin olive oil.
5.4. Different observational studies conducted in humans have shown that the intake of monounsaturated fat may be protective against age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease.
5.5. Microconstituents from virgin olive oil are bioavailable in humans and have shown antioxidant properties and capacity to improve endothelial function. Furthermore they are also able to modify the haemostasis, showing antithrombotic properties.
5.6. In countries where the populations fulfilled a typical Mediterranean diet, such as Spain, Greece and Italy, where virgin olive oil is the principal source of fat, cancer incidence rates are lower than in northern European countries.
5.7. The protective effect of virgin olive oil can be most important in the first decades of life, which suggests that the dietetic benefit of virgin olive oil intake should be initiated before puberty, and maintained through life.
5.8. The more recent studies consistently support that the Mediterranean diet, based in virgin olive oil, is compatible with a healthier ageing and increased longevity. However, despite the significant advances of the recent years, the final proof about the specific mechanisms and contributing role of the different components of virgin olive oil to its beneficial effects requires further investigations.(e)

6. Etc.

B. Health Benefits according to concentration

1.
Oleic acid
a. Postnatal development of the brain
In the investigation of albumin, a serum protein present in the developing brain, stimulates the synthesis of oleic acid by cultured astrocytes by inducing stearoyl-CoA 9-desaturase, the rate-limiting enzyme in oleic acid synthesis, found that oleic acid induces neuronal differentiation, as indicated by the expression of growth associated protein-43. Here, we report that the expression of growth associated protein-43 mRNA peaks at about day 7 after birth, following the maximal expression of stearoyl-CoA 9-desaturase-1 mRNA that occurs between days 3 and 5 postnatally, according to "Role of oleic acid as a neurotrophic factor is supported in vivo by the expression of GAP-43 subsequent to the activation of SREBP-1 and the up-regulation of stearoyl-CoA desaturase during postnatal development of the brain" by Velasco A, Tabernero A, Medina JM.(I)

b. Parkinson's disease
In the evaluation of heterozygous mutations in the glucocerebrosidase gene leading to an increased risk for and to more severe alpha-synuclein-associated pathology in Parkinson's disease found that Parkinson's disease patients with a heterozygous glucocerebrosidase mutation had lower levels of palmitoleic (P ≤ .007), oleic (P ≤ .016), linoleic (P ≤ .005), arachidonic (P ≤ .003), eicosapentaenoic (P ≤ .003) and decosahexaenoic (P ≤ .03) acids and lower levels of total fatty acids (P < .005) compared with both idiopathic Parkinson's disease patients and control subjects, according to "Cerebrospinal fluid fatty acids in glucocerebrosidase-associated Parkinson's disease" by Schmid SP, Schleicher ED, Cegan A, Deuschle C, Baur S, Hauser AK, Synofzik M, Srulijes K, Brockmann K, Berg D, Maetzler W.(II)

c. Lipid and calcium content
In the classification of the influence of olive oil (00) enriched diet on the lipid content of mice brain during the early phase of liver regeneration and to test a relationship of these changes with calcium content over 21 days with diet enriched with olive oil, containing predominantly oleic acid (18:1n-9) found that monounsaturated oleic acid might interact with some metal-dependent activities that control changes in the brain during liver regeneration, according to "Effect of olive oil on brain's lipid and calcium content after partial hepatectomy in mice" by Pantović R, Tota M, Stefan L, Milin C.(III)

d. Etc.

2. Linoleic acid
a. Weight loss
In the investigation of a diet containing conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) reduced body weight and body fat mass in the animal model as well as in human trials found that CLA is functional as an antiobesity supplement in the mouse model for postmenopausal women and that the antiobesity effect of CLA is not estrogen related, according to "Conjugated linoleic acid reduces body weight gain in ovariectomized female C57BL/6J mice" by Kanaya N, Chen S.(IV)

b. Insulin sensitive
In the determonation of Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA)and its effect on insulin sensitivity, found that the use of a mixture of both isomers, as well as moderate doses of CLA, is able to induce a reduction of fat gain without an impairment of adipose tissue function while preserving insulin sensitivity, according to "Moderate doses of conjugated linoleic acid isomers mix contribute to lowering body fat content maintaining insulin sensitivity and a noninflammatory pattern in adipose tissue in mice" by Parra P, Serra F, Palou A.(V)

c. Skin diseases
In the evaluation of (+/-)-13-Hydroxy-10-oxo-trans-11-octadecenoic acid (13-HOA) of the lipoxygenase metabolites of linoleic acid (LA) from corn germ and its inhibited effect oninflammation in ears and skin, as well as tumor promotion in female ICR mice, found that 13-HOA may be a novel anti-inflammatory and antitumor chemopreventive agent with a unique mode of action, according to "Linoleic acid metabolite suppresses skin inflammation and tumor promotion in mice: possible roles of programmed cell death 4 induction" by Yasuda M, Nishizawa T, Ohigashi H, Tanaka T, Hou DX, Colburn NH, Murakami A.(VI)

3. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Decreases the risk of atherosclerosis
Oleic acid is one of the unsaturated fatty acid that has larger molecules and do not bond with other molecules that decreases the risk of cholesterol oxidation forming plaques, blocking the arteries, thus reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, according to "Oleic acid induces smooth muscle foam cell formation and enhances atherosclerotic lesion development via CD36" by Ma S, Yang D, Li D, Tang B, Yang Y.(1)

2. Free radical
Oleic acid contains high amount of andioxidant that helps to improve the immune system in fighting against the forming of free radicals cause of lipid peroxidation , according to "Effect of dietary high-oleic-acid oils that are rich in antioxidants on microsomal lipid peroxidation in rats" by Perona JS, Arcemis C, Ruiz-Gutierrez V, Catalá A.(2)

3. Cholesterol
Palmitoleic acid is one of the monounsaturated fat that lowers your overall cholesterol by raising the levels of good cholesterol (HDL), according to "Effects of dietary palmitoleic acid on plasma lipoprotein profile and aortic cholesterol accumulation are similar to those of other unsaturated fatty acids in the F1B golden Syrian hamster" by Matthan NR, Dillard A, Lecker JL, Ip B, Lichtenstein AH.(3)

4. Menstrual cramps and pain
Linoleic acid is an omega 6 essential polyunsaturated fatty acid that forms the lipid component of all cell membranes in our body. Since it is balanced by linolenic acid in the olive oil, it reduces the risk of over active abdominal muscle that cause menstrual pain, according to "Metabolism of omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids in women with dysmenorrhea" by
Wu CC, Huang MY, Kapoor R, Chen CH, Huang YS.(4)

5. Etc.

Side Effects
There are no known side effect, unless you are allergic to it.

Super foods Library, Eat Yourself Healthy With The Best of the Best Nature Has to Offer

For the world most healthy foods lists, visit http://healthy-foods-index.blogspot.com/2011/03/healthy-foods-list.html,
For other health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

Sources
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19858733
(b) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19093267
(c) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19707219
(d) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21801436
(e) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16008542

(I) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12788519
(II) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22021190
(III) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21648316
(IV) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21056287
(V) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19195867
(VI) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19414503

(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21486455
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15686427
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19106316
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18296341

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Fruits - Blueberries (Ericaceae) Health Benefits and Side Effects

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Fat Fighting Foods.

Foods That Burn Fat. and For Diet,
Weight Loss And Fitness Niches

Blueberries

Blueberry is a flowe plant, belong to the family Eriaceae and native to Northern America. It can grows from 10 cm to 4 metres tall.

Nutritional Supplements

1. Carbohydrates
2. Dietary fiber
3. Fat
4. Protein
5. Vitamin A
6. Lutein and zeaxanthin
7. Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
8. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
9. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
10. Pantothenic acid (Viamin B5)
11. Vitamin B6
12. Folate (Vitamin B9)
13. Vitamin C
14. Vitamin E
15. Calcium
16. Iron
17. Magnesium
18. Phosphorus
19. Potassium
20. Zinc
21. Manganese
22. Vitamin K
23. Etc.

Health Benefits
A. Health benefits according to studies
1.
Antioxidant Capacity
In the investigation of
Blueberry and blackberry wines commercially available in Illinois and theirs potential health benefits, found that fruit wines made from blueberries and blackberries may have potential health applications and therefore could contribute to the economy of the wine industry. Practical Application: The majority of wines are produced from grapes, but wine can also be produced from other fruits including blueberries and blackberries, which contain phenolic compounds that may contribute to human health, according to "Comparison of Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Commercially Available Blueberry and Blackberry Wines in Illinois" by Johnson MH, Gonzalez de Mejia E.(a)

2.
Inflammatory bowel diseases
In the study of
blueberries and broccoli in mdr1a(-/-) mice (IBD mouse model) for theirs effect gastrointestinal tract, found that blueberry- and broccoli-supplemented diets increased colon crypt size and the number of goblet cells per crypt. Only the broccoli-supplemented diet significantly lowered colonic inflammation compared to mice fed the control diet, according to "Influence of dietary blueberry and broccoli on cecal microbiota activity and colon morphology in mdr1a(-/-) mice, a model of inflammatory bowel diseases" by Paturi G, Mandimika T, Butts CA, Zhu S, Roy NC, McNabb WC, Ansell J.(b)

3. Anti cancers
In the assessment of
Pterostilbene (trans-3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxystilbene) primarily found in blueberries and its anti cancer effects found that pterostilbene inhibits cancer growth through alteration of the cell cycle, induction of apoptosis, and inhibition of metastasis. In vivo, pterostilbene inhibits tumorigenesis and metastasis with negligible toxicity. Pterostilbene has also been shown to be effective as an inducer of antioxidant capacity in multiple cancer cell lines that may facilitate its function as an anticarcinogenic compound, according to "Pterostilbene and Cancer: Current Review" by McCormack D, McFadden D.(c)

4.
Metabolic Syndrome
In the classification of
therapeutic roles of strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries in metabolic syndrome found that strawberries lowering total and LDL-cholesterol, but not triglycerides, and decreasing surrogate biomarkers of atherosclerosis (malondialdehyde and adhesion molecules); blueberries lowering systolic and diastolic blood pressure and lipid oxidation and improving insulin resistance; and low-calorie cranberry juice selectively decreasing biomarkers of lipid oxidation (oxidized LDL) and inflammation (adhesion molecules) in metabolic syndrome, according to "Strawberries, Blueberries, and Cranberries in the Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Perspectives" by Basu A, Lyons TJ.(d)

5. Cardiovascular diseases
In the
determination of polyphenols, especially anthocyanins, micronutrients, and fiber in berries, including to chokeberries, cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries found that purified anthocyanin extracts have demonstrated significant improvements in LDL oxidation, lipid peroxidation, total plasma antioxidant capacity, dyslipidemia, and glucose metabolism. Benefits were seen in healthy subjects and in those with existing metabolic risk factors. Underlying mechanisms for these beneficial effects are believed to include upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, decreased activities of carbohydrate digestive enzymes, decreased oxidative stress, and inhibition of inflammatory gene expression and foam cell formation. Though limited, these data support the recommendation of berries as an essential fruit group in a heart-healthy diet, according to " Berries: emerging impact on cardiovascular health" by Basu A, Rhone M, Lyons TJ.(e)

6. Etc.

B. Health benefits according to concentration
1. Vitamin K
Vitamin K not only plays an important role in protecting our skin from aging, it is also needed for the proper clotting of blood, thus decreasing the risk of excessive bleeding, in a study of "Delayed vitamin K deficiency as a cause of bleeding: still a concern in the 21st century!" by Kasatkar P, Shetty S, Ghosh K., posted in PubMed, researchers found that Laboratory tests confirmed acquired bleeding diathesis due to vitamin K deficiency, which was corrected after adequate vitamin K supplementation. VKDB is not an uncommon phenomenon and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child with bleeding diathesis.

2. Manganese
Manganese beside plays an vital role for the proper and normal growth of human bone structure (accodring to the study of "Bone formation within alumina tubes: effect of calcium, manganese, and chromium dopants" by Pabbruwe MB, Standard OC, Sorrell CC, Howlett CR., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15109850)), it also helps to reduce the risk of cancer, (according to the study of "The effects of 3, 4 or 5 amino salicylic acids on manganese-induced neuronal death: ER stress and mitochondrial complexes" by Yoon H, Lee GH, Kim DS, Kim KW, Kim HR, Chae HJ., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21477646 researchers indicated that the salicylate analogues and the antioxidants did not mediate ER stress in this model. The salicylate analogues reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reversed the deficient mitochondrial membrane potential that was induced by Mn. Taken together, the 3, 4, 5 ASA worked in a similar way, regulating the Mn-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and protecting cells.

3. Vitamin C
a. Asthma
Vitamin C is one of the key antioxidant vitamins which is abundant in the extracellular fluid lining the lung and low vitamin C intake has been associated with pulmonary dysfunction, such as asthma, according to the study of "Vitamin C supplementation for asthma" by Kaur B, Rowe BH, Arnold E.(1)

b. DNA Damage
Ascorbic acid (AA), known as vitamin C, has important antioxidant vitamin has exerted the activity in preventing (imazalil)IMA-induced cause of DNA damage, according to the stuyd of "The protective role of ascorbic acid on imazalil-induced genetic damage assessed by the cytogenetic tests' by Türkez H, Aydin E.(2)

4. Dietary fiber
Daily intake of right amount of fibers can prvent and treata. Diabetes, as Increased consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and soluble and insoluble fiber is associated with improved glucose metabolism in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals. Improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis were more evident in participants following a plant-based diet compared with other commonly used diets, according to the study of "Efficacy of high-fiber diets in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus" by Wolfram T, Ismail-Beigi F.(3)

5. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Cardiovascular diseases
Since blue berry contains high amount of antioxidant, it reduces ROS production and the effects of oxidative stress due to ROS, apoptosis and improve cardiac function, according to "Mitochondrially targeted antioxidants for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases" by Subramanian S, Kalyanaraman B, Migrino RQ.(I)

2. Alzheimer's disease
Anthocyanin has been shown to boost the communication between failing brain neuronssame brain plaque which afflicts Alzheimer's disease victims, by enhanced memory-associated neuronal signaling and alterations involved in certain neuronal activities that can help to overcome genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s Disease, according to "Protective effects of anthocyanins against amyloid β-peptide-induced damage in neuro-2A cells" by Shih PH, Wu CH, Yeh CT, Yen GC.(II)

Link3. Urinary tract infections
Urinary tract infections is an irritating and painful recurring probe. Blue berry contains proanthocyanidins, the anitoxidant stops bacteria from attaching to the lining of the bladder and enhances the bladder to flush them out through urinary expelling, acoridng to "Propolis can potentialise the anti-adhesion activity of proanthocyanidins on uropathogenic Escherichia coli in the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections" by Lavigne JP, Vitrac X, Bernard L, Bruyere F, Sotto A.(III)

4. Anti tumors and cancers
Antioxidant in blueberry promotes the proper DNA replication and cells division, thus reducing the risk of free radicals causes of tumors and cancers, according to "Free radicals, metals and antioxidants in oxidative stress-induced cancer" by Valko M, Rhodes CJ, Moncol J, Izakovic M, Mazur M.(IV)

5. Etc.

Side effects

1. Oxalates
Oxalates can cause health problem for people with untreated kidney and gallbadder diseases.
2. It may interfere with the absorption of calcium.
3. Cause kidney stone
4. Etc.

Super foods Library, Eat Yourself Healthy With The Best of the Best Nature Has to Offer

For the world most healthy foods lists, visit http://healthy-foods-index.blogspot.com/2011/03/healthy-foods-list.html,
For other health articles, please visit http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

Sources
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22182198
(b) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22113065
(c) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22099605
(d) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22082311
(e) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20384847

(1) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21986888
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20713332

(I) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19807685
(II) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21302893
(III) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22126300
(IV) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16430879

Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Vegetables - Sweet Peppers (Capsicum Annuum) Health Benefits and Side Effects

[Medical Advisor journals] [The world healthy foods List] [The world healthy food recipes]
Sweet pepper is a species of Capsicum Annuum and contains different color, including red, yellow and orange, native to Mexico, Central America and northern South America.

Nutritional Supplements
1. Carbohydrates
2. Sugars
3. Dietary fiber
4. Fat
5. Protein
6. Thiamine (VitaminB1)
7. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
8. Niacin (Vitamin B3)
9. Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
10. Vitamin B6
11. Folate (Vitamin B9)
12,. Vitamin C
13,. Calcium
14. Iron
15. Magnesium
16. Phosphorus
17. Potassium
18. Zinc
19. Molybdenum
20. Vitamin E
21. Copper
22. Typtophan
23. Etc.

Health Benefits

A. Health benefits according to studies
1. Anti-inflammation
In the investigation of Capsiate and its dihydroderivatives in sweet pepper found that intraperitoneal pretreatment with nordihydrocapsiate (CPT) prevented mice from lethal septic shock induced by lipopolysaccharide. In a second model of inflammation CPT pretreatment greatly reduced the extensive damage in the glandular epithelium observed in the bowel of DSS-treated mice, according to "Immunosuppressive activity of capsaicinoids: capsiate derived from sweet peppers inhibits NF-kappaB activation and is a potent antiinflammatory compound in vivo" by Sancho R, Lucena C, Macho A, Calzado MA, Blanco-Molina M, Minassi A, Appendino G, Muñoz E.(a)

2. Antioxidant activities
In the assessment of the antioxidant activity in 4 different colored (green, yellow, orange, and red) sweet bell peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) found that all 4 colored peppers exhibited significant abilities in preventing the oxidation of cholesterol or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (C22:6) during heating. However, these 4 peppers did not show significant differences in their abilities in preventing cholesterol oxidation. The green pepper showed slightly higher capability in preventing the oxidation of DHA compared to the other 3 peppers, according to "Antioxidant activities of different colored sweet bell peppers (Capsicum annuum L.)" by Sun T, Xu Z, Wu CT, Janes M, Prinyawiwatkul W, No HK.(b)

3. Blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR)
In the analyzing the changes in autonomic nervous activity, body temperature, blood pressure (BP), and heart rate (HR) after intake of the non-pungent pepper CH-19 Sweet and of hot red pepper in humans found that that intake of CH-19 Sweet does not affect systolic BP or HR, while hot red pepper transiently elevates them. These results indicate that DIT due to CH-19 Sweet can be induced via the activation of SNS as well as hot red pepper, but that the changes in BP, HR, and heat loss effect are different between these peppers, according to "Effects of CH-19 Sweet, a non-pungent cultivar of red pepper, on sympathetic nervous activity, body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure in humans" by Hachiya S, Kawabata F, Ohnuki K, Inoue N, Yoneda H, Yazawa S, Fushiki T.(c)

4. Etc.

B. Health benefits according to concentration
1. Vitamin C
a. Asthma
Vitamin C is one of the key antioxidant vitamins which is abundant in the extracellular fluid lining the lung and low vitamin C intake has been associated with pulmonary dysfunction, such as asthma, according to the study of "Vitamin C supplementation for asthma" by Kaur B, Rowe BH, Arnold E.(I)
b. DNA Damage
Ascorbic acid (AA), known as vitamin C, has important antioxidant vitamin has exerted the activity in preventing (imazalil)IMA-induced cause of DNA damage, according to the stuyd of "The protective role of ascorbic acid on imazalil-induced genetic damage assessed by the cytogenetic tests' by Türkez H, Aydin E.(II)

2. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is not only important in preventing types I diabetes, according to "A close relationship between type 1 diabetes and vitamin A-deficiency and matrix metalloproteinase and hyaluronidase activities in skin tissues" by Takahashi N, Takasu S.(III) but also may be associated with compromised bone health, according to "Vitamins and bone health: beyond calcium and vitamin D" by Ahmadieh H, Arabi A.(IV)

3. Vitamin B6
c. 1. Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine beside is important in enhancing the developing red blood cells by stimulating the production of hemoglobin, it also helps to keep blood sugar levels steady during the process of breaking down stored energy in gestation pregnancy, according to the study of "Improvement of oral glucose tolerance in gestational diabetes by pyridoxine" by Bennink HJ, Schreurs WH., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1131652)

c.2. It also plays a pivotal role as a methyl donor in the basic cellular process of methylation, through which methyl groups are transferred from one molecule to another, resulting in the formation of a wide variety of precess, including regulation of gene expression, protein function, and RNA metabolism. When levels of B6 are inadequate, it may cause faulty Methylation with high levels of homocysteine that can cause variety of disease, including cervical dysplasia, faulty detoxification and impaired DNA repair, etc., according to the study of "Back To Life Natural Health Center - Healthcare Through Natural Methods"(http://www.backtolifehealth.com/Methylation.htm)

4. Folate
Beside it is essential vitamin in synthesis of DNA (According to the study of "Folate stimulation of wound DNA synthesis" by Zhang XJ, Chinkes DL, Herndon DN., Posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18028951)), amino acid metabolism (accprding to the study of "Assessment of vitamin B-12, folate, and vitamin B-6 status and relation to sulfur amino acid metabolism in neonates" Minet JC, Bissé E, Aebischer CP, Beil A, Wieland H, Lütschg J.Posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10966894), etc. it also plays an important in regulating cells division and replication, thus reducing the risk of improper growth of cells, leading to tumors and cancers, according to the study of "Folate and cancer: how DNA damage, repair and methylation impact on colon carcinogenesis" by Duthie SJ., posted in PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20544289), reseachers concluded that Folate maintains genomic stability by regulating DNA biosynthesis, repair and methylation. Folate deficiency induces and accelerates carcinogenesis by perturbing each of these processes.

5. Dietary fiber
Daily intake of right amount of fibers can prvent and treata. Diabetes, as Increased consumption of vegetables, whole grains, and soluble and insoluble fiber is associated with improved glucose metabolism in both diabetic and nondiabetic individuals. Improvements in insulin sensitivity and glucose homeostasis were more evident in participants following a plant-based diet compared with other commonly used diets, according to the study of "Efficacy of high-fiber diets in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus" by Wolfram T, Ismail-Beigi F.(V)

6. Etc.

C. Other health benefits
1. Antioxidant
The antioxidants in sweet pepper also helps the body in fighting against the forming of free radicals by enhancing the immune system in regulating the proper cell division ans DNA replication, according to "Antioxidants - Cancers and Diseases" by Kyle J. Norton(1)

2. Diabetes
Sweet pepper' fiber reduces the risk of of type II diabetes, as a result of the presence of sufficiently quantities of beta-glucan, psyllium, or guar gum have decreased insulin and glucose responses "[Dietary fibers: current trends and health benefits in the metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes].[Article in Portuguese]" by Mello VD, Laaksonen DE.(2)

3. Nervous system
Sweet pepper contain high amount of typtophan which helps to synthesize the proteins for the brain cells need, thus reducing the risk of nervous tension causes of loss of appetite, insomnia, mood change, etc., according to "Effects of tryptophan depletion on cognitive functioning, obsessive-compulsive symptoms and mood in obsessive-compulsive disorder: preliminary results" by Külz AK, Meinzer S, Kopasz M, Voderholzer U.(3)

4. Cholesterol
Sweet peppers beside elevates antioxidant activity, free-radical scavenging capability and it also reduces the oxidation of cholesterol and omega 3 fatty acid DHA during heating and cooking, thus preventing the plaque building up on the arterial walls, according to "Hypoxanthine levels in human urine serve as a screening indicator for the plasma total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein modulation activities of fermented red pepper paste" by Kim Y, Park YJ, Yang SO, Kim SH, Hyun SH, Cho S, Kim YS, Kwon DY, Cha YS, Chae S, Choi HK.(4)

5. Etc.

Side Effects

1. Burning sensation on the skin,
2. Coughing, sneezing, teary eyes and a scratchy throat.
3. Vomiting and/or stomach pain
4. Etc.

Sources
(a) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12115659
(b) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17995862
(c) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17341828

(I) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185
(II) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21986888
(III) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19160185
(IV) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21967159
(V) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20713332

(1) http://the-anti-aging-guide.blogspot.com/2011/03/anti-aging-guide.html
(2) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19768242
(3) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18259085
(4) http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20797477