14 4 / 2013
Treat your skin to a peel…
Vitamin C is a known antioxidant and photoprotectant, with roles in collagen synthesis, regeneration and wound repair. But do these properties have any impact on our appearance? Well, a study has examined the effect of Vitamin C on skin aging with impressive results. In a group of over 4000 women, it was found that a higher intake of dietary Vitamin C was associated with better skin aging. Those with vitamin-rich diets were found to have fewer signs of visible aging, i.e. wrinkles, dryness and skin thinning. And, this was found to be independent of other factors including: age, race, sun exposure, smoking, weight, or supplement use. I’m off to the grocers now!
Dietary nutrient intakes and skin-aging appearance among middle-aged American women. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2007:86(4);1225-1231
20 6 / 2012
Anyone for a beet burger?
The Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health in Scotland is investigating the health benefits of adding beetroot to burgers. It is known that when we eat meat, it undergoes a process called “oxidation” in our stomach. This oxidation process transforms the fat into potentially toxic substances before our bodies absorb it. These “bad fats” have been linked with a number of conditions including heart disease and cancer. It is thought an antioxidant-rich vegetable (they chose beetroot for its appearance and taste) may be able to inhibit the oxidation process and reduce our absorption of “bad fats”. If so, this simple measure could have BIG public health implications. The study is currently underway – I’ll keep you posted…
