What are enzymes?

Like any other machine, the body also needs energy to work. This energy is obtained from the food materials through metabolism. Some activating agents or catalysts called enzymes carry on the metabolic processes efficiently. Do you know what these enzymes are and what they do in our body?

 An enzyme is an organic catalyst produced by a living cell. The human body literally contains hundreds of different enzymes. Many are contained within the cells, but some others, such as those used for digestive purposes, act outside cells in the gut itself. Enzymes are involved in almost every chemical reaction-taking place in the body.

Many physiological activities such as digestion, building up and breakdown of tissues, cellular respiration and muscle contraction depend on their action. The activity of an enzyme, depends on the temperature, the degree of acidity or alkalinity (pH) and the substance upon which the enzyme acts. A single enzyme molecule is capable of bringing about the required changes on hundreds of molecules of the substrate in a few seconds. All the enzymes are themselves proteins and made up on long chains of amino acids. They combine with the substrate to form an intermediate compound. This intermediate compound is an unstable complex and breaks down to yield the reaction product plus the original enzyme.

Some poisonous substances such as mercury, lead or arsenic can block enzyme action. The presence of such substances hinders the enzymes from forming intermediate complex with the substrate. Normal metabolism is thus prevented. Enzymes are not only important for our body but are also very useful in industry, medicine and analytical chemistry. They are used to convert starch into glucose and glucose into fructose. They are also used in cheese-making industry and for the production of semi synthetic penicillins. Artificial sweeteners are also produced with their help.

Enzymes are classified into six major groups: Oxidases, which bring about oxidation, transferases, which bring about group transfer; hydrolases, which speed up the process of hydrolysis; lyases that bring about group removal. Isomerases enzymes are responsible for isomerization and ligases for joining of molecules.

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High-Fructose Corn Syrup Upsetting the Appetite Applecart

High-Fructose Corn Syrup Upsetting the Appetite Applecart The introduction of highly glycemic high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in the 1970s has, in my opinion, a direct corollary in the rise in obesity in both children and adults. Prior to the 1970s, popular soft drinks such as Coke and Pepsi were made with pure cane sugar. The average bottle of soda was 6 ounces (175 ml). In the ensuing decades as we and our meals have become supersized, an average can or bottle of soda holds 12 ounces (375 ml) and a large soda can contain 32 ounces (1 L) or more.

The April 2004 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported that the consumption of HFCS increased 1,000% between 1970 and 1990, far exceeding the changes in intake of any other food or food group. HFCS now represents 40% of caloric sweeteners added to foods and beverages and is the sole caloric sweetener in soft drinks in the United States. Sweetened beverages (and they are ubiquitous even in the health food store) set us up for calorie overconsumption.

According to the Alternative Medicine Review December 2005 issue, fructose promotes the formation of toxic advanced glycation end-products (this is the glycation I often write about that degrades the collagen in our skin, resulting in deep wrinkles, and that is implicated in the complications of diabetes and in the development of atherosclerosis). In addition, excessive fructose consumption may be responsible in part for the increasing prevalence of obesity, diabetes mellitus, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

When we consume simple sugars such as HFCS, we are causing an immediate pro-inflammatory spike in our blood sugar. Unlike glucose, however, fructose does not stimulate insulin secretion or enhance leptin production key hormones that regulate the appetite. Because insulin and leptin act as signals to the brain for the regulation of food intake and body weight, the ability of fructose to bypass these mechanisms may contribute to overeating. In short, the body’s natural checks and balances are thrown out of balance. Fructose bypasses the natural mechanisms that prevent overeating and actually makes the body think it is still hungry even after eating a large meal.

This is because the digestive and absorptive processes for glucose and fructose are different. Also, when we consume large amounts of fructose, which is basically an unregulated source of fuel for the liver, it is converted to both fat and cholesterol. Fructose also significantly raises triglyceride levels. As Perricone readers know, I am no advocate of sugar—in fact sugar is toxic. But the effects of fructose, particularly in the form of HFCS, are an even more significant cause for alarm. (I am not talking about the naturally occurring fructose found in fresh fruit.)

Thus, the increase in consumption of HFCS is directly related to the epidemic of obesity: As the consumption of HFCS has increased around the world, so has the incidence of obesity. However, that is not the only negative effect of HFCS and corn syrup. According to Michael Pollen, writing in the New York Times (June 4, 2006), 70 percent of America’s corn fields are treated with the powerful herbicide atrazine. He states that traces of the chemical routinely turn up in American streams and wells and even in the rain; the U.S. Food and Drug Administration also finds residues of atrazine in our food. This herbicide was recently banned by the European Union and is a suspected carcinogen and endocrine disruptor in humans. Use of these types of toxins pose a potentially devastating threat to the environment and everything in it—including humans.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Further analysis of the Caerphilly study (which included only men) examined the relationship between engaging in sexual intercourse and experiencing heart disease and stroke. Researchers found that even when adjusting for age and other risk factors, frequent sexual intercourse two or more times a week was correlated with lower incidence of fatal coronary events. At a 10-year follow-up examination, the men who reported an intermediate or low frequency of sexual intercourse less than once a month had rates of fatal coronary incidents twice that of those who had reported a high frequency of sexual intercourse. However, a Swedish study of both men and women found that mortality was higher among men who had ceased having sexual intercourse at earlier ages. No association was found between sexual intercourse and mortality for women.

Using similar methods, researchers found that frequent sexual intercourse did not result in an increased risk of stroke. This finding is particularly important, because there is a prevailing belief that frequent sexual intercourse may cause strokes even though this is untrue. More fascinating facts from the white paper on the benefits of sex include the fact that sexual expression may lead to a decreased risk of breast cancer; research has also shown that sexual activity and orgasm may bolster the immune system in women and men. The sexual and reproductive health of women and men is directly influenced by their sexual experiences. It has been found that sexual activity can have positive effects on

General Physical Well-Being, Because Sex . . .

• Improves sleep because orgasm causes a surge in oxytocin (a hormone best known for inducing labor, but also associated with human attachment and bonding) and endorphins that may act as sedatives.
• Increases fitness by burning calories and fat. It has also been suggested that people with active sex lives tend to exercise more frequently and have better dietary habits than those who are less sexually active.
• Cures wrinkles! A study conducted during a 10-year period and involving more than 3,500 European and American women and men examined various factors associated with youthful appearance. A panel of judges viewed the participants through a one way mirror and then guessed the age of each study subject. Those women and men whose age was regularly underestimated by 7 to 12 years were labeled “super young.”Among these super young people, one of the strongest correlates of youthful appearance was an active sex life. On average, super young participants reported engaging in sexual intercourse three times a week in comparison with the control group’s average of twice a week. The super young were also found to be comfortable and confident regarding their sexual identity.

Sexual and Reproductive Health, Because Sex . . .

• Protects against endometriosis
• Enhances fertility
• Regulates the menstrual cycle
• Relieves menstrual cramps
• Protects against early delivery in pregnancy
• Supports prostate health
• Relieves chronic pain
• Helps to relieve migraines

Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Spiritual Health, Because Sex . . .

• Improves overall quality of life
• Decreases risk of depression and suicide
• Reduces stress
• Increases self-esteem
• Enhances intimacy
• Improves social health
• Increases stability of relationships

Astaxanthin, the Multifunctional Antioxidant

Astaxanthin is a unique and multitalented antioxidant. It is also one of the reasons for wild salmon’s status as a leading superstar in the realm of antiaging foods. However, it is also important to take astaxanthin as a nutritional supplement to ensure optimum benefits.

Astaxanthin has the ability to protect the cell membrane from free radicals also known as reactive oxygen species, or ROS, including the most damaging of all, the singlet oxygen. Carotenoids in general, and astaxanthin in particular, effectively absorb energy from free radicals and the singlet oxygen.

Astaxanthin provides powerful protection to the lipid bi-layer that surrounds our cells as well as the mitochondria and the nucleus within the cells. This dual function of protection is unique to astaxanthin and one of the reasons it plays such an important role in the protection of cells. Because astaxanthin can penetrate different portions of the cell, it protects all
organs and systems throughout the body. This broad-based protection is the foundation for the multifunctional benefits that have become associated with astaxanthin and its anti-aging properties. The health areas that have been studied include

• Cardiovascular: Recent studies have indicated the tendency of astaxanthin to reduce blood pressure. The antihypertensive mechanism may in part be explained by the tendency of astaxanthin to increase blood flow. It is hypothesized by the researchers that this results from blood vessel relaxation and dilation. Also, in one of the studies, a 50% drop in the incidence of stroke was noted in the astaxanthin-treated group.
• Type 2 diabetes: A preliminary study indicates that astaxanthin supplementation may improve control of type 2 diabetes and inhibit progressive kidney damage. This study also supports the findings of an earlier study that indicates that astaxanthin may preserve pancreatic function as well as insulin sensitivity.

Other benefits include

• Improved skin elasticity and reduced appearance of fine lines
• Eye fatigue (asthenopia) reduction
• Improved muscle endurance and recovery following vigorous exercise
• Reduced gastric inflammation and dyspepsia

It is important to note that all of these studies were performed using the AstaREAL brand of natural astaxanthin, which is produced from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis, a natural carotenoid pigment and biological antioxidant believed to be the world’s richest source of astaxanthin, in fully enclosed and protected bios stems either in Sweden or on the island of Maui in Hawaii. As with so many nutritional supplements, it is critical to know that you are getting the highest quality most vigorously tested for both safety and efficacy formula possible. AstaREAL is a trademark of Fuji Chemical Industry.

Tips to get beautiful shining Body Parts

NECK and CHEST:

When the temperature rises, necklines fall. “Women obsess over every millimeter of their face, then completely ignore everything from their chin down. Remember the ultimate skin-care rule: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 15 or higher every day including your neck and chest. This will help prevent sun damage that can lead to age spots, sagging and wrinkling. If you already see these signs, consider a trip to your dermatologist. “A gentle, in-office chemical peel can improve skin tone and texture. If you’re the do-it-yourself type, rub an at-home exfoliation gel on your neck and decolletage in circular motions for a few minutes, two or three times a week. It will leave your skin refreshed and give you a complexion you can feel confident about.

Knees:

These leg joints are one of your body’s most overworked parts, helping you kneel, bend and climb all day long. It's no wonder they can show signs of wear and tear in the form of thick, dry, discolored, itchy skin. Like your elbows, it’s important to cleanse, exfoliate and hydrate your knees. “Because they work so hard, the skin on the knee often looks much older than the rest of the leg,” says New York City-based dermatologist David Colbert, M.D. Choose a gentle cleanser, then exfoliate in the bath or shower two or three times a week. Rub in a circular motion on and around your knee, rinse and pat don’t rub dry. This will help whisk away dry, flaky skin.

To get even more visible results, use a retinol. (That’s right retinols aren’t just for your face!) It will help keep cell turnover constant on your knees, evening out skin tone. Finally, hydrate with an antioxidant-rich body butter.

Feet:

Finally, it’s sandal weather! If you’re not thrilled about baring your soles, treat yourself to a professional pedicure early in the season. Even if you do it yourself afterward, you’ll give your toes a head start in looking their best. Then, keep it up on your own. If you live near a beach, take advantage of the sand as a natural exfoliant. “Take a long walk near the water where the sand is looser and water can wash over your feet,” says Stephanie Whittier, L.M.T., C.S.T., a New York City-based wellness expert and licensed massage therapist. “Then walk backward, digging your heels in with each step.” It’s a fun way to get rid of unsightly calluses!

At home, use a sea salt scrub and a pumice stone to peel away dead skin, and apply a soothing, hydrating oil on your toenails to keep them primed for polish.

If your tootsies need extra pampering, pile on an emollient cream, concentrating on your heels, then wear cotton socks over the treatment while you sleep.

Elbows:

You’ve got your front covered, but how about your back view? “It’s so easy to forget the areas you don’t see very often, like your elbows,” says Whittier. Take a peek at these neglected joints in a mirror. Notice dry, flaky skin? First, avoid rubbing or scratching the area, which will only aggravate your skin; next, exfoliate your elbows in the shower. When you get out, apply a generous amount of vitamin E oil (while skin is still damp), followed by a body lotion to seal in the moisture.

How can I avoid an asthma attack?

An allergy and asthma specialist says:

 

The main cause of asthma is inflammation of the airways, so anything that reduces inflammation may help. Vitamin D can increase anti-inflammatory molecules in the body; it may also reduce the risk of getting viral infections like colds, which are the most common triggers of asthma. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with hyper-reactive airways (when air passages narrow suddenly), lower lung function and poor asthma control. 

Treatment: Your doctor can measure your vitamin D levels with a blood test to find out if you’re deficient (most people are). Make sure to get the recommended daily minimum 600 Ills (15 micrograms) of vitamin D from foods like oily fish, fortified dairy products, cereals and supplements.

An acupuncturist and Ayurvedic practitioner says: 

Acupuncture can help open the lungs, ease breathing, decrease phlegm and mucus and calm the mind (many asthmatics experience anxiety). A newer approach I use in my practice is salt therapy, which originated in Russia and Eastern Europe. Salt is anti-bacterial and it dissolves or liquefies mucus. In a salt room, the walls and floors are covered with salt and a special device grinds it into very fine particles that you inhale. 

Treatment: Let your doctor know if you decide to see an acupuncturist, and don’t go off your medications without medical supervision. If salt therapy isn't an option, you can use a saline solution, either with a neti pot or saline washes, to decrease mucus and fight infections.

A naturopath says: 

Eating dairy products is often a trigger for respiratory ailments, as it produces a lot of mucus in the body, which causes congestion. Gluten is also suspected to be problematic for many, although experts don't fully understand why.

 Treatment: First cut dairy and then gluten out of your diet. After six weeks (the optimal amount of time to test for sensitivity), reintroduce the foods and keep detailed notes about how you feel. The herb hawthorn berry has anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties and blocks the formation of histamine, opening the airways immediately. Keep a l-ounce tincture on hand; if you feel symptoms, take a full dropper and wait a minute. Try this three to five times, and if it hasn’t helped, use your asthma medications.

Healthy Salad - Zorra the Great Greek Salad

Mediterranean fare gets a lot of praise for good reason: It's loaded with heart-healthy fats and fiber-rich vegetables. But the marinated meats and big chunks of feta cheese in Greek salads can sabotage an otherwise healthy diet. This mix doesn't overdo it on the olive oil, and the bed of hummus packs a big protein punch.

• 2 ounces baby arugula 2 ounces romaine lettuce, chopped
• 2 ounces English cucumber, diced
• 2 ounces kalamata olives, pitted
• ounce red onion, julienned 5 baby tomatoes, halved
• teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
• ounce baked pita chips
• 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• ounces fresh hummus

Combine all ingredients, toss with lemon juice and olive oil, and sen/e immediately on a bed of hummus.

Per serving: 563 calories, 39 g fat (3.5 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol,  11 g protein, 46.5 g carbohydrates,  8 g fiber, 951 mg sodium