Top Fruits – Juice Health Benefits & Recipes

07 Feb

Which Fruit Has The Highest Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) – The Most Antioxidants?

Antioxidants

Mentioning antioxidants goes hand in hand with another frequently used term – free radicals. We have an interesting and in depth article on both free radicals and antioxidants if you follow these links so I won’t go much into details here. But I do urge you to read both articles to better understand what are antioxidants, what are free radicals, how do they interact and what consequences do they have on our bodies and our health.

But to sum it up in short – an antioxidant is a molecule that counteracts the process of oxidation in animal tissue. Free radical is a highly unstable molecule that is formed as a by-product of our body’s natural metabolism or as a result of environmental influences. Free radicals are thought to be the cause of degradation within our bodies. Antioxidants neutralize the free radicals and stop cellular damage before it starts.

Which Fruit Has The Most Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)?

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)

Pyridoxine is the most common of the seven forms of vitamin B6. In supplement form, the vitamin is water-soluble and can be found in many foods we eat. It is a member of the key family of vitamins, B-complex. The many benefits of these key vitamins affect crucial body systems.

The Role Of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) In Our Body

Together with B12, B6 creates red blood cells and other cells necessary in the immune system.

While vitamin B6 deficiency is rare, when it does occur symptoms include muscle weakness, nervousness and irritability. Severe deficiencies can result in short term memory loss and inability to concentrate on simple tasks.

B complex vitamins all work to help our bodies metabolize fat and protein. B6 is also highly involved in aiding nervous system function and contribute greatly to healthy hair, skin and eyes.

Since water-soluble vitamins aren’t stored in the body, daily intake is important to keep enough B6 in the system for good health. Of particular interest is a recent study that suggests people with heart disease do not get enough B6 in their diet. While the direct correlation is still unknown, doctors suggest making sure to get enough B6 for heart health. A large study has shown that 500mg of B6 with 1000mg of B12 taken daily significantly reduces the risk of age related macular degeneration, a condition that leads to blindness.

B6 also helps the body produce serotonin, an important key in depression prevention. Another amazing function of B6 is the ability to reduce inflammation. This ability benefits many sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis and carpel tunnel syndrome.

There can be too much of a good thing. At very high dosages of B6, side effects can include skin rash, nausea, abdominal pain, imbalance and numbness of legs and toes. The good news is that by ceasing excessive use, typically all side effects will fade within 6 months time.

Top Fruits For Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) Content

The amounts of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Banana 0,37 mg
2 Jackfruit 0,33 mg
3 Durian 0,32 mg
4 Blackberry 0,30 mg
5 Carrot 0,14 mg
6 Mango 0,13 mg
7 Fig 0,11 mg
8 Pineapple 0,11 mg
9 Guava 0,11 mg
10 Kiwi 0,10 mg
11 Lychee 0,10 mg
12 Passion Fruit 0,10 mg
13 Cranberry 0,10 mg
14 Grape 0,09 mg
15 Lemon 0,08 mg
16 Tomato 0,08 mg
17 Tangerine 0,08 mg
18 Pomegranate 0,08 mg
19 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,07 mg
20 Redcurrant 0,07 mg
21 Blackcurrant 0,07 mg
22 Pumpkin 0,06 mg
23 Orange 0,06 mg
24 Raspberry 0,06 mg
25 Apricot 0,05 mg
26 Grapefruit 0,05 mg
27 Blueberry 0,05 mg
28 Mulberry 0,05 mg
29 Cherry (sweet) 0,05 mg
30 Watermelon 0,05 mg
31 Apple 0,04 mg
32 Mangosteen 0,04 mg
33 Cucumber 0,04 mg
34 Plum 0,03 mg
35 Pear 0,03 mg
36 Peach 0,03 mg
37 Papaya 0,02 mg

26 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Vitamin K?

Vitamin K

Vitamin K is a group of vitamins that are stored in the body’s fat and liver. Discovered in 1929 by a Danish scientist, two natural forms of vitamin K exist, vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. Our bodies use vitamin K in blood coagulation and bone metabolism. A vitamin K deficiency is rare, although some medications, such as antibiotics, can suppress vitamin K temporarily. Newborn babies receive vitamin K injections as a preventative action against bleeding. Besides getting vitamin K in food, the human gut also makes vitamin K, which is why vitamin K deficiencies are rare.

Vitamin K’s Role in Human Health

Vitamin K’s role in human health is to prevent excessive bleeding. Vitamin K also uses calcium to build strong bones, reducing the risk of bone fractures. People with high levels of vitamin K have thicker, stronger bones than those with lower levels of the vitamin. People with excessive bleeding, easy bruising or showing signs of bone weakening should eat fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin K, such as grapes, avocados, kiwis, blueberries and dark-green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.

Eating fruits and vegetables with lots of vitamin K will allow blood to clot, help prevent postmenopausal bone density loss and bone fractures and protect the body’s arteries from calcification. Some research has revealed that vitamin K may also protect against prostate and liver cancers. People taking certain medications, including antibiotics, cholesterol-lowering drugs, seizure drugs and weight loss drugs should consult with medical professionals before taking vitamin K supplements or eating vitamin K-rich foods. Possible interactions between vitamin K and the above medications can occur.

Taking too much vitamin K is usually not a problem as there is no known toxicity with vitamin K. Large doses of the vitamin, however, may cause tingling in the hands or feet as well as numbness.

Which Fruit Has The Most Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)?

The importance of having a balanced diet continues to make headlines in medical journals. A diet that provides all of the nutritional daily needs should include fruits, vegetables and low-fat proteins that supply a full spectrum of vitamins including the vital riboflavin vitamin B2. This important nutritional element helps prevent disorders related to the skin and eyes and reduces the risk of hair loss, lesions and inflammation. Riboflavin is a key factor in regulating metabolism and can affect a person’s energy level and their ability to concentrate. Including vitamin B2 in the diet by consuming natural foods is an important part of ensuring a healthy daily nutrition routine.

Benefits of Riboflavin Vitamin B2

One of the main benefits of riboflavin, or vitamin B2, includes the ability of this element to convert carbohydrates to sugars which provide energy for our daily activities. When the vitamin is absorbed, it helps form healthy red blood cells that continually nourish the body. The immune system is also enhanced by protecting against free-radical damage. Both children and adults need to maintain the minimum daily requirement of vitamin B2 to ensure overall good health.

Other benefits found from riboflavin include improved skin and hair texture. Eating foods rich in riboflavin helps prevent cataracts and acts as an anti-aging medium.

Health Risks from Deficiencies from Riboflavin Vitamin B2

Having an insufficient supply of riboflavin can lead to disorders that range from mild to severe. People under stress are often affected by the lack of vitamin B2 and may have difficulty sleeping or experience a lack of energy. During pregnancy, sufficient amounts of vitamin B2 helps prevent damage to the unborn fetus. Skin lesions are another symptom from riboflavin deficiencies as is hair loss. Migraine headache sufferers may have a riboflavin deficiency that is correctable by changing dietary habits.

Top Fruits For Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Content

The amounts of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Durian 0,20 mg
2 Cranberry 0,20 mg
3 Pumpkin 0,10 mg
4 Lychee 0,10 mg
5 Redcurrant 0,10 mg
6 Grape 0,10 mg
7 Mulberry 0,10 mg
8 Elderberry 0,10 mg
9 Passion Fruit 0,10 mg
10 Mango 0,10 mg
11 Blackcurrant 0,10 mg
12 Mangosteen 0,10 mg
13 Pomegranate 0,10 mg
14 Fig 0,10 mg
15 Banana 0,07 mg
16 Jackfruit 0,06 mg
17 Tangerine 0,04 mg
18 Grapefruit 0,03 mg
19 Cucumber 0,03 mg
20 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,03 mg
21 Kiwi 0,03 mg
22 Lemon 0,02 mg
23 Pineapple 0,02 mg
24 Blueberry 0,00
25 Plum 0,00
26 Watermelon 0,00
27 Cherry (sweet) 0,00
28 Papaya 0,00
29 Peach 0,00
30 Strawberry 0,00
31 Orange 0,00
32 Apple 0,00
33 Pear 0,00
34 Lime 0,00
35 Gooseberry 0,00
36 Raspberry 0,00
37 Guava 0,00
38 Blackberry 0,00
39 Carrot 0,00
40 Tomato 0,00
41 Apricot 0,00

22 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Phytonutrients?

Phytonutrients play a part in everything from good eyesight to preventing cancer. They are an important part of good health. You can protect and improve your well-being by understanding what phytonutrients are and what they do to help us.

What are Phytonutrients?

Phytonutrients are organic components found in plants. Some good sources are fruits, vegetables, nuts and teas. There are a lot of different classes of phytonutrients including lignans, saponins and phenols. The ones most people are familiar with are carotenoids and flavonoids. Each class of phytonutrients offers different health benefits and has different plant sources they can be found in, so it is possible to eat a wide variety of them.

The Effects of Phytonutrients in Our Bodies

There is evidence that phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables can protect us from some forms of cancer and macular degeneration. They may work as antioxidants and destroy free radicals. Phytonutrients enhance cell communication and immune responses. They may also destroy cancer cells and repair DNA damage caused by exposure to smoke and other toxins. It is possible they can activate some of our enzyme systems and detoxify carcinogens as well.

Studies have shown that consuming fruits, teas, grains and vegetables with high levels of phytonutrients decreases the risk of strokes and prostate cancer. With heart disease, not only is the risk significantly lower from eating phytotnutrient-rich foods, so is the mortality rate associated with it. Other benefits include lowering cholesterol levels, protecting lung tissue and blocking tumor growth. Research suggests that even making small but consistent increases in the amount of phytonutrients we eat can make a difference in health. Overuse may trigger an allergic reaction in some people or have a mild effect such as a change in skin tone from beta carotene, but overall they are considered safe.

Which Fruit Has The Most Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)?

What Is Pantothenic Acid?

Pantothenic Acid is a water-soluble vitamin that we do not synthesize in our own bodies. Panothenic acid, also called Vitamin B5, must be obtained from dietary sources. Pantothenic acid is chemically an amide, a specific type of nitrogen-containing chemical. It is important for the synthesis of biologically active compounds in the body.

The most important role of panthothenic acid is in the synthesis of a chemical called coenzyme A, or CoA. Coenzyme A is a chemical that is involved in multiple important metabolic pathways, including fatty acid oxidation and the citric acid cycle. The citric acid cycle, also called the Krebs cycle or the tricarboxylic acid cycle, is a metabolic pathway that is used to generate energy in all aerobic (oxygen-using) organisms.

Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) In Our Body

The name “pantothenic acid” refers to the chemical’s presence in a wide range of sources. A deficiency of Vitamin B5 is extremely rare due to the easy availability of the vitamin in almost all food sources. However, Vitamin B5 supplements are manufactured. The documented cases of pantothenic acid deficiency have mostly been in experimental settings and in victims of starvation. The main effects of such a deficiency include fatigue due to decreased energy, neuropathy, muscle cramps, abdominal pain and hypoglycemia. These symptoms are usually reversed when the person with the deficiency replaces the pantothenic acid in their diet.

A toxic dosage for pantothenic acid has not been determined. The vitamin is water-soluble, meaning that it is excreted in urine if there is an excess of the vitamin in the body.

Top Fruits For Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) Content

The amounts of Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) are given for 100g of each fruit.

1 Guava 0,50 mg
2 Blackcurrant 0,40 mg
3 Carrot 0,40 mg
4 Pomegranate 0,40 mg
5 Banana 0,33 mg
6 Pumpkin 0,30 mg
7 Orange 0,30 mg
8 Grapefruit 0,30 mg
9 Gooseberry 0,30 mg
10 Raspberry 0,30 mg
11 Blackberry 0,30 mg
12 Cranberry 0,30 mg
13 Fig 0,30 mg
14 Cucumber 0,27 mg
15 Watermelon 0,22 mg
16 Kiwi 0,20 mg
17 Cherry (sweet) 0,20 mg
18 Papaya 0,20 mg
19 Peach 0,20 mg
20 Lime 0,20 mg
21 Mango 0,20 mg
22 Tangerine 0,20 mg
23 Durian 0,20 mg
24 Tomato 0,20 mg
25 Apricot 0,20 mg
26 Lemon 0,19 mg
27 Strawberry 0,13 mg
28 Blueberry 0,10 mg
29 Plum 0,10 mg
30 Pineapple 0,10 mg
31 Redcurrant 0,10 mg
32 Apple 0,10 mg
33 Melon (Cantaloupe) 0,10 mg
34 Elderberry 0,10 mg
35 Pear 0,10 mg
36 Lychee 0,00
37 Jackfruit 0,00
38 Grape 0,00
39 Mulberry 0,00
40 Passion Fruit 0,00
41 Mangosteen 0,00

20 Jan

Which Fruit Has The Most Niacin (Vitamin B3)?

One of the most important nutrients for the body is Niacine. For proper nutrition, a daily intake of niacin is recommended. The recommended dosage will vary according to age. For pregnant women or those who are breast-feeding, recommended dosage is eighteen milligrams a day. Adult men should get sixteen milligrams per day, the daily requirement for adult women is fourteen milligrams, and the required dosage for children is between two, and twelve milligrams each day.

What Is Niacin (Vitamin B3)?

Niacin, which is a B Vitamin, is also known as nicotinic acid. This organic compound is a natural substance found in plants, and is widely used as a nutritional supplement. It is water soluble and easy for the body to digest. Generally recognized as Vitamin B3, niacin is found in a wide range of foods like sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, peanuts, tuna, liver, wheat bran, rice bran, and chicken. Niacin is also found in yeast extract and paprika. One teaspoon of paprika supplies five percent of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for niacin.

How Niacin Helps The Body

Niacin is needed to help the body process fat. It has been used to regulate levels of blood sugar, and lower cholesterol. A deficiency in niacin can lead to a number of health related problems such as depression, anxiety, and fatigue. In cases of severe niacin deficiencies, patients can suffer from a disease known as pellagra. This is a serious vitamin deficiency disease that is accompanied by dementia, dermatitis, diarrhea, and death if left untreated. Pellagra is often found in patients who suffer from long-term alcoholism.

While niacin tablets are a commonly used supplement, those who are interested should consult their doctor or health care provider. Follow the pharmacy or label directions, and only take the daily allowance that has been prescribed by your doctor.

Which Fruit Has The Most Vitamin E?

What Is Vitamin E?

Contrary to popular belief, Vitamin E is not a single substance. In fact, it is a group of compounds that are fat-soluble and contain active antioxidants that protect the human body from free radicals that increase the risk of deadly diseases such as cancer and heart disease. It is found naturally in certain foods and added to others. In addition, Vitamin E is offered as a dietary supplement for those looking to lose weight. There are eight different forms of Vitamin E, each of which has its own function. Broken down from eight, there are four tocopherols and four tocotrienols; there is an alpha, beta, gamma and delta of each.

Of the eight different variations of Vitamin E, the only one that is actively maintained in the body of a human is alpha-tocopherol. In addition, alpha-tocopherol is the form of Vitamin E with the greatest nutritional value for humans. It is found primarily in sunflower, wheat germ and safflower oils. Each person has a daily recommended intake of Vitamin E; for adults over the age of 14 the recommended daily intake is 15 mg.

Too Much of a Good Thing? Vitamin E has Positive and Negative Health Effects

A Vitamin E deficiency may result in illness and disease such as neuropathy, retinopathy and even skeletal myopathy. Vitamin E deficiency most commonly has negative effects on the eyes and the nervous system. In addition, a deficiency of Vitamin D is also associated with higher risk of heart disease and certain forms of cancer.

While there are risks associated with not having enough Vitamin E, there are also risks from having too much; anyone that has more than 1000 mg of Vitamin E per day is at risk for bleeding problems, some associated with the brain. In short, Vitamin E is necessary to protect the body from disease, but taken in excess its nutritional value is replaced with dangerous bleeding conditions.

Which Fruit Has The Most Vitamin B6?

What is Vitamin B6?

Vitamins are substances required by your body in tiny amounts. Your body cannot make its own vitamins. They must be acquired from the diet. Vitamin B6 is a part of a larger group of vitamins known as Vitamin B compound. These vitamins are water soluble, so they dissolve easily in water. Your body cannot store water-soluble vitamins. Vitamin B6 must be acquired daily. Its scientific name is pyridoxine.

Vitamin B6 In Our Body

Vitamin B6 is involved in many body functions. It helps you metabolize macronutrients such as proteins, fats and carbohydrates. It helps convert carbohydrates into glucose for energy. It is necessary to synthesize neurotransmitters that control mood and assists with many functions of the immune system. It participates in keeping electrolytes balanced, promotes the production of red blood cells and helps to keep homocysteine levels low. It contributes to healthy hair, skin, eyesight and good liver function.

Vitamin B6 deficiency includes general weakness, nervousness and irritability. It is responsible for pre-menstrual problems like fluid retention, emotional outbursts and depression. It is essential for the body to make melatonin. Insomnia often results from not enough melatonin. Low levels of Vitamin B6 can also manifest in skin conditions, ridged fingernails and serious bone problems such as arthritis and osteoporosis. One of the most noticeable deficiency symptoms is a swollen or painful tongue.

Many people resort to taking vitamin and mineral supplements when they believe they may not be getting enough in their diet, but sometimes that can be dangerous. Too much Vitamin B6 can cause neurological problems. Numbness, tingling hands or feet, and trouble walking are signs that you may be getting too much Vitamin B6 as well as too little. It is always best to get the vitamins and minerals you need from whole foods.

Which Fruit Has The Most Fat?

What is Fat?

With all the bad reputation that fats are getting in our times it might come to you as a surprise but fat is a nutrient that is important for our bodies to function normally. Fats are a substance that is found in animal tissue as well as in some plants and nuts. This nutrient is the key to a healthier body. We cannot live without fats in our diets. There are two types of fats, saturated and unsaturated fats. One is healthier than the other. The way each one interacts inside our body is what makes one good and one bad.

Fat In Our Body

Fat is important in our bodies to provide us with energy. Diets too low in fat can cause us not to have as much energy to get through the day. The fat we have in our diets helps our body absorb vitamins, and it helps prevent us from having a deficiency in these vitamins. The fat transports these nutrients to their proper place in our bodies. It helps insulate our bodies to the weather as well as protect our organs and bones from injury. With the proper amounts of fat in our diets, we will feel more satisfied between meals since the fat helps the food remain in our stomach longer. Our food will taste better with some fat added for flavor and texture.

When we partake of a diet that is too low in fat, we may see several things happen such as dry skin, hair loss and even a higher chance at infection. Fat is a valuable asset to our body’s hormones and to our immune functions. Too much fat is just as bad as too little. It can cause our blood vessels to clog, and then it affects our heart. Without the proper amounts of fat in our body, we may suffer from one or more of these conditions.