Category Archives: Detoxing

From Root to Tip: How Zinc Nourishes Hair Follicles for Optimal Growth

Zinc: Your Hair’s Best Friend for Growth and Vitality

While zinc might not always receive as much attention as some other supplements, it can indeed be considered a “super supplement” due to its essential role in maintaining overall health. Its involvement in numerous enzymatic reactions, immune system support, cell growth, and hormone regulation highlights its significance.

Zinc’s impact on various bodily functions makes it a valuable nutrient to ensure optimal well-being. However, it’s important to note that no single supplement can replace a balanced and nutritious diet. Zinc should ideally be obtained through a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, dairy, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

In recent years, certain supplements and nutrients have gained more prominence in the wellness and health industries, but this doesn’t diminish the importance of zinc. Like many essential nutrients, it’s an integral part of the puzzle when it comes to maintaining good health.

Always remember that when considering any supplement, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional to ensure that your individual needs are met safely and effectively. Zinc plays a crucial role in regulating more than 300 enzymes in the human body. Because Zinc cannot be stored in the body it needs to be ingested daily either through diet or taking supplements

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Understanding Zinc’s Role in Hair


Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in various biological processes within the human body. Its involvement in regulating over 300 enzymes is crucial for a wide range of functions, such as DNA synthesis, immune system function, protein synthesis, and cell division. These enzymes are involved in catalyzing chemical reactions that are necessary for the proper functioning of cells and tissues.

One reason zinc is essential to obtain through daily intake is that the body has no specialised mechanism for storing it. Unlike some other minerals, zinc isn’t stored in large quantities in the body for future use. This means that a consistent intake of zinc through diet or supplementation is necessary to maintain optimal bodily functions.

Regarding hair growth, zinc contributes to this process in several ways:

Cell Division and Protein Synthesis: Zinc is involved in the division and growth of cells, including hair follicle cells. It aids in the synthesis of proteins, which are the building blocks of hair.



Hormone Regulation: Zinc is necessary for the proper functioning of various hormones, including those related to hair growth. Hormones like testosterone and its derivatives can impact hair health. Zinc helps regulate these hormones, promoting healthy hair growth.

Antioxidant Defense: Zinc acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells, including hair follicles, from oxidative stress. This is important because oxidative stress can damage hair follicles and lead to hair thinning or loss.

Keratin Production: Keratin is the primary protein that makes up hair strands. Zinc plays a role in the production of keratin, contributing to strong and healthy hair.

Immune System Support: A well-functioning immune system is essential for maintaining healthy hair follicles. Zinc supports the immune system, which indirectly benefits hair growth by creating a conducive environment for hair follicles to thrive.



While zinc is important for hair growth, it’s important to note that excessive intake can also have adverse effects. Finding the right balance is crucial, as both a deficiency and an excess of zinc can lead to hair problems. It’s recommended to obtain zinc from a balanced diet that includes foods like meat, seafood, nuts, seeds, and whole grains or a carefully compiled supplement. If someone suspects a zinc deficiency, consulting a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation is advisable.


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Recommended Brain Check Tool to Help reduce your risk of dementia

Start checking and training your brain


I came across an article today suggesting a brain checker tool to help avoid dementia.

I covered this topic in another of my blogs back in 2019 when another report came out stating Scientists have long found a possible link between anticholinergic drugs and an increased risk of dementia.
A study published in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine on Monday suggests that the link is strongest for certain classes of anticholinergic drugs — particularly antidepressants such as paroxetine or amitriptyline, bladder antimuscarinics such as oxybutynin or tolterodine, antipsychotics such as chlorpromazine or olanzapine and antiepileptic drugs such as oxcarbazepine or carbamazepine.


Study is important because it strengthens a growing body of evidence showing that strong anticholinergic drugs have long term associations with dementia risk,” said Carol Coupland, professor of medical statistics in primary care at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom and first author of the study.


We wish it wasn’t the case but, unfortunately, memory loss is a hot topic. People have countless questions about brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
What really causes it? Read more

So the Alzheimer’s Research UK has launched a new app which gives people of all ages tips on how to keep their brains active and to reduce the risk of dementia.

The brain checker tool encourages people to do more to look after their brains, and offers suggestions to stay sharp.

Dementia is the term used to describe a set of symptoms that over time can affect memory, problem-solving, language and behaviour. 

The disease is progressive, which means symptoms may be mild or even unnoticeable at first, but they get worse over time. There are many types of dementia but Alzheimer’s disease is the most common. The next most common is vascular dementia

Well excuse me.. In March 2015, researchers published a prospective cohort study in JAMA Internal Medicine called “Cumulative Use of Strong Anticholinergics and Incident Dementia.”

The University of Washington and Seattle healthcare system, Group Health, conducted the long-term study which tracked 3,434 men and women who were aged 65 and up, and had no dementia when the study began.

The team accessed every participant’s history of drug use for the previous decade, including both over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Over a 7-year timeline, they followed up with all the participants every two years, during which 797 participants developed dementia (637 of whom developed Alzheimer’s disease).

As researchers looked back on what those 797 individuals took, anticholinergic drugs became the main suspect. The most common anticholinergics participants used were tricyclic antidepressants, first-generation antihistamines, and bladder antimuscarinics.

Compared to those who didn’t take anticholinergic drugs, people who did for as little as three years were 54% more likely to develop dementia.

What Are Anticholinergics?
Usually, these types of drugs are prescribed to treat problems including urinary incontinence, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD).

Anticholinergic drugs’ main purpose is to block the actions and effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter which causes muscles to contract, activates pain responses and regulates endocrine and REM sleep functions.

It’s just a natural fact of life – as we age, our bodies’ ability to produce acetylcholine decreases. Since the brain actually contains many acetylcholine-producing cells, as Harvard editor Beverly Merz highlights, “blocking its effects can deliver a double whammy to older people.”


Related: NHS outlines over 45 Common Medications Linked to Memory Loss!

It was suggested that if you want to keep your head clear and brain functioning as highly as possible, steering clear of anticholinergic drugs seems ideal.


However, it is important to recognize that the long-term study revealed only a small portion of drugs was interfering with cognitive function. So, please discuss with your doctor if you’re thinking of getting off any prescribed medications.

I know that we have to try all avenues to help combat what is now the fastest growing health problem around the world.

Most children are pretty advanced on their mobile phones

Almost everyone has a mobile phone, a good percentage of owners pay games on their phone. We have the highest users of technology and evening is becoming automated. So if we are already using technology how is just a checker going to help? Just asking

How by Taking Control of Your Headline you could double your business revenue every month by Diane Shawe

If you want more leads for your business do this

Recent survey showed that 90% of ecommerce websites generally looked the same. And played little to no role in a customer’s decision to chose who they will purchase from. This means that thousands of pounds spent per month on traditional advertising has little to no contribution on over all profits.

But despite these setbacks, some businesses are earning more profits than ever while spending less time and resources then their competitors. No matter where your business is located, and no matter what condition its in, you can attract high paying customers in droves using little to known but effective techniques I’ll introduce just a couple of them to you now.

Did you know that many of your customers are willing to pay you more and buy more of your products if you simply presented it in the right way to them. You can also acquire more customers by simply marketing smarter and more efficiently as well.

One way to immediately increase your front end sales is to improve your sales letter offering.

Stop using several phones to manage your online business

Take control of your headline

You donʼt need to test and tweak a million different things until you start to doubt your own offerings, in order to bump up your conversions the first thing you want to do is just test and tweak the headline. Leave everything the same …just start changing the headline and see what happens.

You test your headline first or in some cases your email subject heading and you do that simply by just making a more powerful, more compelling headline that in my opinion should solve a problem for the reader. Once you have control over your headline then you can start testing the body of your content.

Use A.I technology by introducing conversational marketing

Start engaging with your social media followers especially if you have thousand of followers across your social media platforms?

Did you you can have a conversation, pass on details, resolve problems, show videos, get visitors to schedule appointment themselves, buy from your store, register on your courses, competition or events and much much more without you lifting a finger. A.I online virtual assistant can help you to:-

➢ Qualify your website visitors and direct them to what they want
➢ Increase your website or social media conversions
➢ Build a bigger email subscriber list
➢ Collect valuable feedback data to improve visitor experience
➢ Give them quick answer to questions
➢ Present a more streamlined buying experience
➢ Resolve complaint or problem in real time
➢ To get a more detailed answer to a query
➢ Link to calenders, videos, courses seamlessley
➢ Reduce your online admin time by 50%

Test your offering

The Key To It All. By testing your offer I mean you might want to, say, instead of selling an eBook for £12.99 – you might want to offer a physical version of your package for £27.00 + shipping and handling. You could offer three easy payments of £9.00 by a paypal subscription to a persons credit card. See?

Thatʼs actually £14.00 in total …over double the price …using a risk reversal offer that seems cheaper at first glance.
In fact, that offer would probably convert better. So it’s important to tweak your offer a lot. In the words of Dan Kennedy, “ITʼS THE OFFER, STUPID.” Iʼll give you another one.

Trial offers are another fantastic way to persuade potential customers to register, use your services and you can then up sell them afterwards (no spamming)

Testing your offer structure.

Instead of offering a trial, you could ask for a fair sum upfront £99.99 …and then gave them the big box of stuff as a bonus. They get the same thing but you simply structured the offer differently. Just imagine if you got 100 people to take your service there and then online, fees right up front. No trial, no launch, no affiliates you could see just how profitable and structured your offering truly is.

Step by step how to get a chatbot to help your business

The number 1 complaint about launching and running a online #business or posting links is generating enough enquiries to make a #sale! and capturing contact details to respond

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Why the I-Grow Can Help With Your Hair Regrowth Journey by Diane Shawe

Every year more and more people are suffering from hair loss caused by illness, medication, stress, chemical treatments, damaged hair. We help treat and or disguise thin, short, bald patches, damaged or sensitive scalp on all hair types, gender or age.

We offer a non evasive hair regrowth treatment with a REVOLUNARY equipment known as iGrow.

If you need help to start the hair regrowth journey to restore your edges, bald patches, thin hair or slow growing hair, book a consultation with Need a Hair Makeover and let’s see what we can do.

About the Equipment

iGrow’s proprietary Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) technology utilises a highly effective combination of red laser and LED light diodes, to stimulate and energise cellular activity causing an uptake in the natural function of the hair follicle.

What makes the iGrow Laser Hair Rejuvenation System different to other laser treatments?

Unlike other hair laser treatments, iGrow uses a combination of LED and laser technology at a clinically proven wavelength of 655 nano-meters. The unique design of the iGrow helmet is specially contoured to cover your entire scalp for the most effective treatment possible in the shortest amount of time.

Also the distribution of the low-level laser and LED lights inside the iGrow helmet ensures that the treatment targets exactly the parts of your scalp that need it most every time.

Learn more watch our video https://youtu.be/DfB2WePQ29c

How long does it take for iGrow to work?

The iGrow system promotes hair growth and energises hair follicles, combating hair loss. With regular use, iGrow will produce thicker, fuller hair in just 6 months

Number of Treatments

There are several packages you can choose from to suit your budget.

What to do prior to treatment

Arrive with your hair clean and free from any hair care products

How long is each treatment

Each treatment under the IGrow system is for 20 minutes. There is no heat involved with this treatment.

Styling hair after treatment

We can style your hair after treatment for a surplus fee. Let us know upon your arrival and prior to your treatment.

Aftercare

We recommend you do not wash your hair for at least 48 hours after the treatment.

Recommended number of treatments

It is recommended that the first course of treatments should consist of up to <12 sessions to see hair growth results in 6 months.

How to contact us

Call 0121 318 2880 to book a consultation or visit https://g.page/needahairmakeover

Hair Loss and Thinning Hair Treatments and Solutions Workshop

Come and join us fo a conversation about hairloss and thinning hair and what solutions are available.

Venue: Need a Hair Makeover Hair Extensions & Hair-loss Specialist Salon

Book to register

Date; 16th November

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Fee: £3.00

A recent report on anyone having covid suggested that 70% was experiencing hairloss.

We recognise that hair loss can be very upsetting and cause a lack of confidence, affecting your overall self-esteem. We also know that finding the right solution can be confusing, sometimes disappointing and at a time when you are most vunerable.

We are able to offer expert advice and guidance to all of our Alopecia, Chemotherapy & Hair Loss condition and help you understand the various treatments and solutions available.

Register Here: http://bit.ly/2YvgfO1

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Can Technology Help With Stimulating New Hair Growth?

Every year more and more people are suffering from hair loss caused by illness, medication, stress, chemical treatments, damaged hair. We help treat and or disguise thin, short, bald patches, damaged or sensitive scalp on all hair types, gender or age.

We offer a non evasive hair regrowth treatment with a REVOLUNARY equipment known as iGrow.

If you need help to start the hair regrowth journey to restore your edges, bald patches, thin hair or slow growing hair, book a consultation with Need a Hair Makeover and let’s see what we can do.

Checkout the IGrow 12 weeks plan

iGrow’s proprietary Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) technology utilises a highly effective combination of red laser and LED light diodes, to stimulate and energise cellular activity causing an uptake in the natural function of the hair follicle.

This three- to six-month process treats hair thinning and loss, by effectively growing new healthy hair that is thicker, fuller and more vibrant.

Checkout our online appointment booking system. Easily book a consultation online. http://bit.ly/3CuPzuO

You may also want to read our article on How #hairloss may be linked to a disfunctional liver by Diane Shawe https://bit.ly/2ADbMN6

Why Is My Food Getting Mouldy So Quickly? I Could Not Believe What I found Out!

Food does not seem to last long now a days. Why?

Why is my Food Growing Mould?

Article by Diane Shawe

I have been noticing that most of my food is going mouldy quicker, even in the jars!  I was curious to find out why, espcially as this is happening more and more in the fridge as well. I thought the fridge was designed to keep things cool and slow down the detiriation of our food.

I also wanted to know what mould did to the body if injected, my mind started to generate all types of conspiracy theory so I decided to do a little research based on facts.

We all grow up learning mold is gross. But is it just unpleasant, or is it actually dangerous? Isn’t it mould that makes blue cheese blue? And wasn’t penicillin first discovered in moldy bread?

Are we wasting perfectly safe food when we throw it out? Or are we gambling our health when we shrug our shoulders and eat that piece of cheese that had a dusting of white fuzz?

How does mould grow on food?

I found this bit scary because is the air we are breathing so toxic? Is that why we are getting sicker even though we are more health concious? I mean think about it, our lungs are very moist!

So back to the question: Tiny mould spores are carried in the air. When these spores land on food, they take root and grow until they produce patches of mould visible to the naked eye. Once they mature, they produce new spores and release them into the environment and the cycle continues!

What is mold on food?

Mould is a microscopic fungus, and yes—spoilers!—consuming it can be bad for our health. Like its cousin the mushroom, there are thousands of different species.

Some are safe to consume, but many produce poisonous mycotoxins that cause illness and even death. Additionally, some people are allergic to mould and need to steer clear of it. So dealing with mold on food is serious business.

Why does mould grow on food?

Mould requires three things to grow: organic matter, water and oxygen. Food provides the the first two ingredients. Exposed to air, mold has everything it needs to grow.

How long does it take for mould to grow on food?

Many factors affect the rate of growth of mould: the specific type of mould, the food it’s growing on, and the ambient temperature and humidity. Many species of mould like warmer temperatures and mould growing on fruit on your counter may develop in very few days, especially in the warm humid summer months. Other mould growing on food with less water content in the cool of a refrigerator might take several weeks.

How to handle mould on food?

Mould can grow on most types of food, but not all food is the same.

Red Flag Food

Red flag food items should be automatically discarded when mouldy. These items include most food items, particularly soft and moist foods:

  • Luncheon meats, hot dogs, bacon, etc.
  • Cooked leftover meat, poultry and fish
  • Cooked pasta and cooked grains
  • Casseroles
  • Sour cream and yoghurt
  • Soft fruits such as tomatoes, berries, cucumbers, etc.

Some other drier, harder foods fall into this category as well:

  • Nuts and legumes
  • Bread, baked goods and other highly porous items

In general, softer food with more moisture content is more prone to moulding, and can’t be safely salvaged. In addition to the mould itself, soft moist food can provide an ideal environment for dangerous bacteria to grow. For these foods, it’s important not to assume the problem is limited to the mould you see.

Throw away the mouldy food, and carefully inspect other nearby food, especially food in the same package. Do not sniff mouldy food: spores might get into your respiratory system. Wrap the spoiled items in plastic to contain the spores, and discard.

To eat or not to eat?

Moulds can grow in the fridge and will even survive freezing. They can also survive in salty, sugary and acidic environments. This is scary!

As mould on our food is so hard to avoid, here are some general guidelines from the most Food Safety and Inspection Service on responding to the problem:

Discard all of these foods if mouldy:

  • Luncheon meat, bacon, and hot dogs.
  • Yoghurt, sour cream and soft cheese.
  • Soft fruits and vegetables
  • Bread and baked goods.
  • Peanut butter, nuts and legumes.
  • Jams and jellies – but note Dr Hocking has a slightly different view for Australian jams.

These foods can be saved from mould:

  • Hard salami (the dry, aged type) – scrub mould from the surface.
  • Hard cheese – cut off at least 2.5 centimetres around and below the mould. Don’t let the knife touch the mould and recover the cheese with fresh wrap.
  • Firm fruit and veg – small mould spots can be cut off.

Cheeses made with mould

  • Blue cheese
  • Roquefort
  • Gorgonzola
  • Stilton
  • Brie
  • Camembert

The mould used in making these cheeses is safe for consumption. However, if other mold that is not part of the manufacturing process is present, these items should be discarded just like any other red flag food item. Some blue cheeses may be hard enough to be treated as a Yellow Flag item (see below for care). However, if you are unsure where to draw the line, remember: when in doubt, throw it out.

Note that while the mould that forms the blue veins inside blue cheeses is harmless when deprived of oxygen inside the cheese, the same strain of mold can form harmful mycotoxins if allowed to grow on surfaces exposed to air. Be careful of cross-contamination with these cheeses and keep them wrapped in cellophane while storing them.

Yellow Flag Food

Other foods, particularly harder and drier foods, can sometimes be kept once the mold is carefully removed. These include:

  • Hard cheese
  • Firm fruits and vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell pepers, etc.)
  • Hard salami and dry-cured ham

If you’re going to cut away mould rather than discard the item, it’s important to remember that there is more mould present than what you can see. Below the surface, mould will have penetrated up to 2cm or more. For these food items, mould can be cut away but you should cut at least 2.5cm (1 inch) outside of and underneath any visible surface mould. Be careful to keep the knife clear of the mould to avoid contaminating the rest of the food as you cut.

Note that surface mould is a normal occurrence on certain hard salamis. In this case, scrubbing the mould off the surface is sufficient. Again, it never hurts to be cautious. When in doubt, throw it out.

Different types of food mould

Black mold on food

I did not like this bit, but if you are going to understand something, you can’t disguard the ugly sides. Well here goes.. Various strains of mould can have a black appearance. Homeowners know to watch out for black toxic moldStachybotrys chartarum, commonly found in attics.

However there are many non-toxic strains of black mould as well, including Rhizopus stolonifera, also known as black bread mould. You may encounter black mould on the rubber seals of your refrigerator or on food. While this doesn’t prove you have black toxic mould in your house, you are best to assume it may be harmful and discard the food item in question, meticulously scrub clean the refrigerator, and look for signs of black mould in your house.

Pink mould on food

Pink mouldy formations on food may not be mould at all, but rather bacteria growing. Aureobasidium and Fusarium are also two common fungi that grow with a pinkish colour.

Pink mould is most often seen on bread, dairy products and meat. Dangers of pink mold include infection of the respiratory, gastro-intestinal or urinary tracts.

White mould on food

White mould is seen on a variety of foods, from the white mould purposefully grown on the outside of certain cheeses, to fluffy white mold appearing on berries and other fruit.

Many strains of mould can appear white, and to complicate matters many coloured strains of mould may go through a phase where they appear white before developing the spores that give them their colour. Unless white mould is a purposeful part of a food’s production (e.g. brie and camembert cheese), assume it is toxic and handle affected food accordingly.

Green mould on food

Green mould is commonly found on citrus fruit and bread. Cladosporium is one particularly common species of green mould.

It can have a potent smell and be particularly irritating, particularly for people with mould allergies. This can lead to respiratory problems such as wheezing and coughing, as well as vomiting. Clodosporium mold can produce mycotoxins as well, so avoid exposure.

Orange mould on food

A variety of mould can take on an orange colour, including Fuligo septica and Aleuria aurantia. These orange moulds commonly have a slimy texture.

While they may be less dangerous than some other colours of mould, they can still cause respiratory problems, and where orange mould is present, bacteria are also likely to be found.

Furthermore, orange mould is particularly prone to growing on wood. So not only is orange mould a threat to your food, it is a threat to the wood in your house.

Red mould on food

While various strains of mould can be red, red mould on food is most commonly Neurospora. While this type of mould is typically less dangerous than other types of mould, some mycotoxin-producing moulds might appear red in certain conditions, or might be present alongside red mould. It’s therefore wisest to treat red mould on food with the same caution as other mould.

Blue mould on food

Blue mould on bread and the blue mould deliberately cultivated to make blue cheese are strains of the genus Penicillium. And yes, some species of Penicillium (but not all!) produce penicillin. Many species of Penicillium are innocuous, but some are not.

And while the blue mould in blue cheese, deprived of oxygen, is safe for consumption, that same strain of mould can produce mycotoxins when it grows on an outside surface exposed to air. So, eat that blue cheese but treat other blue mould as potentially toxic.

Consumers Select Food Based on Colour at the Supermarket

It is widely accepted that consumers select a food product with their eyes, so products need to look fresh and tasty.

Oxidation is the Enemy

Oxidation, a chain reaction that occurs in the presence of oxygen, is responsible for the deterioration of food products, including off-flavours and off-odours. This process is affected by processing, packaging and storing techniques, as well as product ingredients.

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What are Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are molecules that:

  • Significantly delay or prevent oxidation
  • Help maintain fresh appearance and colour
  • Extend shelf life

How Do They Work?

Antioxidants delay the onset of oxidation by donating hydrogen atoms to quench free radicals, forming a stable antioxidant radical that is unable to participate in propagation reactions, slowing down oxidation.

What happens if you eat mould?

what happens if you eat mold
You have to be really careful

Is it dangerous to inhale mould spores from food?

Inhaling mould visible on food is risky and should be avoided. It may cause allergic reactions or problems with the respiratory tract. When mould isn’t visible, sniffing may be a useful way to detect it—e.g. smelling dishcloths. However, once you’ve spotted mould, avoid inhaling.

Can mould on food make you sick?

Mould on food can be harmful in various ways. Some people are allergic to mould and could have a potentially serious reaction. However, even if you don’t have allergies, mould can cause irritation in the respiratory, gastro-intestinal or urinary tracts. And the mycotoxins created by some moulds are poisonous carcinogens that can prove fatal.

What are health symptoms you can get by eating mould on food?

Allergic reactions to mould can include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, postnasal drip, irritated eyes, nose and throat and dry, scaly skin. Those with asthma may experience coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.

Those without allergies may still experience respiratory problems such as wheezing, sneezing, tightness in the chest and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, this can lead to respiratory infection and even hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

A particular concern is ingesting mould that produces mycotoxins. Signs of mycotoxin poisoning include reduced appetite, a general feeling of malaise, acute illness or death in rare cases.

Food mould facts and questions

Which food will mould fastest?

Storage conditions will have a significant effect on how quickly a given food turns mouldy. However, all things being equal, food with a high moisture content will mould first. Thus, in the fridge, fruits such as strawberries or cucumber might get mouldy before other foods. Stored at room temperature, natural bread (with no preservatives) can get mouldy quite quickly.

Is it safe to eat fruits with mould on a peel you discard?

It may be tempting to think that for fruit with a peel, simply removing and discarding the peel may be enough to protect you. In the case of a firm fruit like a pineapple, it can indeed be treated as a “yellow flag” food, carefully cutting away the affected area.

Fruits with a softer peel like oranges or bananas should be treated as “red flag” foods and discarded—underneath the visible mould, it may have penetrated the peel to the flesh of the fruit inside. In the case of an avocado, while the skin is quite tough mold can still get underneath and infect the fruit inside. Play it safe and discard it.

What temperature kills mould spores in food?

Most moulds are killed off by temperatures of 60-70°C (140-160°F). Thus, boiling water is generally enough to kill off mould. Remember, though, that mould doesn’t just grow on the surface: heat will have to penetrate into whatever the mould is growing in to kill it. Also keep in mind that the mycotoxins produced by certain mould can survive intense heat: boiling may kill the mould but leave its poisons still intact.

How to prevent mould on food?

Mold on Food
Putting Items in the fridge is good

Of course, far better than throwing out mouldy food is avoiding having your food get moldy to begin with! Fortunately there are steps you can take to keep your food fresh and mold-free:

  • It takes one mouldy food item to get the whole basket covered in mold! This is very important rule to remember the moment you are at the market. If you are buying nonpacked items, ensure each of them is fresh. If you notice mold on any single piece, simply don’t buy it. Examine each item for bruising, softness, oxidation or signs of mould before you buy it and avoid any items that look overly ripe.
  • On the other hand, when buying pre-packed food you cannot examine every single piece, meaning that mouldy items can go unseen. In that case, ensure you checked the date and chose the one that was most recently packed. Instead of buying processed or pre-packed food, where you often don’t have control of the freshness (the story of wrong dates is not rarely heard), choose local markets and stores you can trust.
  • Once you buy your delicious food, especially fresh fruit and veggies, it is important to keep it covered until you’re ready to eat it to minimize the risk of cross-contamination with bacteria, mold, dust and debris from the environment. Use plastic wrap to cover foods you want to keep for longest, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, salads and cheese.
  • Rinse the contents of canned goods under water and store them in your fridge in tightly sealed plastic or glass containers. Refrigerate leftovers and use them within four days.
  • Consume early to avoid mold. The first step you can take to prevent food going bad is to eat it before mould has time to take hold. Especially for moisture-rich and porous food like fruits and breads, buy in smaller quantities so you can consume it within a just a few days.
  • Keep food cold: the cooler the better. Keep food, especially soft moist food like fruit, in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature. Only take it out while you’re using it—under two hours. To keep food mould-free for longer periods, store it in the freezer rather than the fridge.
  • Use heat to kill mold. High acid foods such as fruits, jams and jellies can be made safe to preserve through heat treatment. A boiling water bath is a common practice to prepare them for a long shelf-life. The amount of time required for a water bath will vary depending on what and how much you’re canning, so be sure to adapt your method to the specific food you’re treating.
  • Keep kitchen tools and surfaces clean. Mould may thrive on food, but it can be found anywhere. The less mould in your kitchen, the less your food will get exposed. Clean your refrigerator and other kitchen surfaces with a mixture of 5ml of baking powder to 1L of water. Watch out for black-coloured mold on your fridge’s rubber seals and scrub carefully to clean it out.
  • Keep your dishcloths, tea towels, sponges, mops and other kitchen tools clean. Give them the sniff test: if they smell musty, they may be harbouring mould. Any item that you can’t get clean and fresh-smelling, discard and replace.

Mould proofing kitchen and cleaning tips

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Since food is stored in the kitchen (most of the times), keeping your kitchen clean and well-aired will also have a big impact on your food’s life. For example, mould will develop anywhere where there is a leak, and if you are storing food close to that it can easily transfer from a corner and attack your favorite otherwise fresh food.

In order to prevent mould on food you will have to work on overall kitchen mould prevention. In most cases it includes either ensuring there is enough fresh air or regular cleaning. Here are a few tips that can help you prevent mold in the kitchen.

  • As said above – mould can grow in the fridge and, thus, it is important to keep the inside of the refrigerator clean. We suggest cleaning it every few months with one tablespoon of baking soda dissolved in a quart of water. Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly before storing food again.
  • Ensure your food is still fresh by checking it every day or two. Toss away anything that has a sign of mould or that started rotting away.
  • Replace sponges at least once a week and always use clean dish clothes and towels. If you notice a musty smell coming from a sponge or towel, replace it immediately.
  • Wash the dishes at least once a day. Don’t leave food leftovers in your sink behind you once you are done with the meal. Throw them away immediately. If you are in a rush, keep your dishes under water to prevent food stains from hardening until you can wash them properly.
  • Mould can be found in dishwasher and garbage disposals. It can be the reason behind the odors, thus keeping it clean should be your priority. At least once a week pour baking soda, salt and vinegar (or lemon) own the sink and leave it for 10 minutes. You can add lemon or orange peels and even essential oils to give it a nice smell. After that all you have to do is pour boiled water to wash it up and your disposal and sink will be clean, mould-free and refreshed.
  • Kitchen tools, especially wooden ones should be washed and well dried before set aside, because wood is one of the favourite food for mould. All you have to do is simply wash them after you used them and leave them to dry well somewhere where it is not wet and it has enough fresh air and light. (for example if you are done with cooking and your stove is still warm, you can put it next to it to dry.
  • Don’t forget about unused kitchen appliances. They are often sealed and if not well dried, mould can form due to water evaporation inside. The best way to prevent mold from developing inside is to ensure it is well dried before storing and, if there is a possibility, keep it open.
  • And last but not least, make sure that the relative humidity in your home is between 30% and 50%, especially in the warmer months, when mold is known to flourish. The easiest thing you can do to control the humidity level is to keep your windows open as often as possible. If that is not possible your next steps should bes either air vents or even a dehumidifier.

Conclusion

As with mould in general, there are many strains of mould that can be found on food. While some are innocuous, many are not. While mould that’s purposefully introduced into certain cheeses can be safe, always treat other mould on food as a dangerous substance. Treat “yellow flag” foods with caution and for “red flag” foods, play it safe and discard it.

And remember, the same concerns about mould allergies and mould toxicity that applies to food mould also applies to other mould in your house. Keep watch for mould in your kitchen and whole house, and if you detect signs of mould, get informed as to the steps needed to eradicate it safely.

Keep thing clean

source Bust Mould

New Face Covering Guideline Sept 24th 2020 and Enforcement measures in UK

A quick and clickable overview during Covid 19 Pandemic 2020

When and where to wear a face covering

There are some places where you must wear a face covering by law. Different rules exist in different parts of the UK about which you can find out more on the relevant regional websites:

  1. What a face covering is
  2. When to wear a face covering
  3. When you do not need to wear a face covering
  4. The reason for using face coverings
  5. How to wear a face covering
  6. Face coverings at work
  7. Buying and selling face coverings
  8. Making your own face covering
  9. Maintaining and disposing of face coverings

In England, you must wear a face covering in the following indoor settings (a list of examples for each is included in the brackets):

  • public transport (aeroplanes, trains, trams and buses)
  • taxis and private hire vehicles (PHVs)
  • transport hubs (airports, rail and tram stations and terminals, maritime ports and terminals, bus and coach stations and terminals)
  • shops and supermarkets (places which offer goods or services for retail sale or hire)
  • shopping centres (malls and indoor markets)
  • auction houses
  • premises providing hospitality (bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes), except when seated at a table to eat or drink (see exemptions) from 24 September
  • post offices, banks, building societies, high-street solicitors and accountants, credit unions, short-term loan providers, savings clubs and money service businesses
  • premises providing personal care and beauty treatments (hair salons, barbers, nail salons, massage centres, tattoo and piercing parlours)
  • premises providing veterinary services
  • visitor attractions and entertainment venues (museums, galleries, cinemas, theatres, concert halls, cultural and heritage sites, aquariums, indoor zoos and visitor farms, bingo halls, amusement arcades, adventure activity centres, indoor sports stadiums, funfairs, theme parks, casinos, skating rinks, bowling alleys, indoor play areas including soft-play areas)
  • libraries and public reading rooms
  • places of worship
  • funeral service providers (funeral homes, crematoria and burial ground chapels)
  • community centres, youth centres and social clubs
  • exhibition halls and conference centres
  • public areas in hotels and hostels
  • storage and distribution facilities

You are expected to wear a face covering before entering any of these settings and must keep it on until you leave unless there is a reasonable excuse for removing it. More detailed advice on the application of these requirements in different settings can be found in the government’s guidance for working safely.

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You should also wear a face covering in indoor places not listed here where social distancing may be difficult and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet.

Face coverings are needed in NHS settings, including hospitals and primary or community care settings, such as GP surgeries. They are also advised to be worn in care homes.

The Department for Education (DfE) has updated its guidance on the use of face coverings for schools and other education institutions that teach people in years 7 and above in England.

Enforcement measures for failing to comply with this law

Premises where face coverings are required should take reasonable steps to promote compliance with the law.

The police can take measures if members of the public do not comply with this law without a valid exemption and transport operators can deny access to their public transport services if a passenger is not wearing a face covering, or direct them to wear one or leave a service.

If necessary, the police and Transport for London (TfL) officers have enforcement powers including issuing fines. From 24 September this will be £200 (reduced to £100 if paid within 14 days) for the first offence.

Repeat offenders receiving fines on public transport or in an indoor setting will have their fines doubled at each offence.

After the first offence, there will be no discount. For example, receiving a second fine will amount to £400 and a third fine will be £800, up to a maximum value of £6,400.

Let’s help keep each other safe

Go Get some Cardamom herbs, its science backed – Here’s Why!


Since the spread of Covid 19 around the world I like many others have been looking for natural herbs to help stay healthy. Of course there are lots of herbal remedies being touted on YouTube and some herbal distributors injecting hashtags relating to a virus to help push there product up the search engine.

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I usually buy my spices from the local Delhi Shop mainly because of the wide range and competitive prices.
A few weeks ago I noticed that one of the boxes was empty, this is rare I thought, not just one box but five!
The label read CARDAMOM. Is there a secret  we don’t know about? Well I didn’t have time to do a search but I took a photo of the label to remind me to go investigate later.


To my amazement later on that day I found this some info on the 10 Health Benefits of Cardamom, Backed by Science!
So what is Cardamom? It is a spice with an intense, slightly sweet flavor that some people compare to mint.
It originated in India but is available worldwide today and used in both sweet and savory recipes.
The seeds, oils and extracts of cardamom are thought to have impressive medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries (1, 2).


Here are 10 health benefits of cardamom, backed by science.


1. Antioxidant and Diuretic Properties May Lower Blood Pressure
Cardamom may be helpful for people with high blood pressure.
In one study, researchers gave three grams of cardamom powder a day to 20 adults who were newly diagnosed with high blood pressure. After 12 weeks, blood pressure levels had significantly decreased to the normal range (3Trusted Source).


The promising results of this study may be related to the high levels of antioxidants in cardamom. In fact, the participants’ antioxidant status had increased by 90% by the end of the study. Antioxidants have been linked to lower blood pressure (3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source).
Researchers also suspect that the spice may lower blood pressure due to its diuretic effect, meaning it can promote urination to remove water that builds up in your body, for example around your heart.


Cardamom extract has been shown to increase urination and decrease blood pressure in rats (5Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

Cardamom may help lower blood pressure, most likely due to its antioxidant and diuretic properties.


2. May Contain Cancer-Fighting Compounds
The compounds in cardamom may help fight cancer cells.
Studies in mice have shown that cardamom powder can increase the activity of certain enzymes that help fight cancer (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).


The spice may also enhance the ability of natural killer cells to attack tumors (8Trusted Source).


In one study, researchers exposed two groups of mice to a compound that causes skin cancer and fed one group 500 mg of ground cardamom per kg (227 mg per pound) of weight per day (7 Trusted Source).


After 12 weeks, only 29% of the group who ate the cardamom developed cancer, compared to over 90% of the control group (7Trusted Source).


Research on human cancer cells and cardamom indicate similar results. One study showed that a certain compound in the spice stopped oral cancer cells in test tubes from multiplying (9Trusted Source).


Even though the results are promising, these studies have only been conducted on mice or in test tubes. Human research is needed before stronger claims can be made.

SUMMARY

Certain compounds in cardamom may fight cancer and stop the growth of tumors in mice and test tubes. Human research is needed to validate if these results apply to humans as well.

Click to see receipe


3. May Protect from Chronic Diseases Thanks to Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Cardamom is rich in compounds that may fight inflammation.
Inflammation occurs when your body is exposed to foreign substances. Acute inflammation is necessary and beneficial, but long-term inflammation can lead to chronic diseases (10Trusted Source, 11Trusted Source, 12).


Antioxidants, found in abundance in cardamom, protect cells from damage and stop inflammation from occurring (13Trusted Source).
One study found that cardamom extract in doses of 50–100 mg per kg (23–46 mg per pound) of body weight was effective in inhibiting at least four different inflammatory compounds in rats (14Trusted Source).
Another study in rats showed that eating cardamom powder decreased liver inflammation induced by eating a diet high in carbs and fat (15Trusted Source).


Though there are not as many studies on the anti-inflammatory effects of cardamom in humans, research shows that supplements may increase antioxidant status by up to 90% (3Trusted Source).

SUMMARY

The antioxidant compounds in cardamom may help protect cells from damage and slow down and prevent inflammation in your body.


4. May Help with Digestive Problems, Including Ulcers
Cardamom has been used for thousands of years to help with digestion.


It’s often mixed with other medicinal spices to relieve discomfort, nausea and vomiting (1).
The most researched property of cardamom, as it pertains to relieving stomach issues, is its possible ability to heal ulcers.


In one study, rats were fed extracts of cardamom, turmeric and sembung leaf in hot water before being exposed to high doses of aspirin to induce stomach ulcers. These rats developed fewer ulcers compared to rats that only received aspirin (16Trusted Source).
A similar study in rats found that cardamom extract alone could completely prevent or reduce the size of gastric ulcers by at least 50%.


In fact, at doses of 12.5 mg per kg (5.7 mg per pound) of body weight, cardamom extract was more effective than a common anti-ulcer medication (17Trusted Source).
Test-tube research also suggests that cardamom may protect against Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria linked to the development of most stomach ulcer issues (18Trusted Source).
More research is needed to know if the spice would have the same effect against ulcers in humans.

SUMMARY
Cardamom may protect against digestive issues and has been shown to reduce the number and size of stomach ulcers in rats.


5. May Treat Bad Breath and Prevent Cavities
The use of cardamom to treat bad breath and improve oral health is an ancient remedy.
In some cultures, it’s common to freshen your breath by eating entire cardamom pods after a meal (1).
Even the chewing gum manufacturer Wrigley uses the spice in one of its products.


The reason why cardamom can lead to minty fresh breath may have to do with its ability to fight common mouth bacteria (19Trusted Source).
One study found that cardamom extracts were effective in fighting five bacteria that can cause dental cavities. In some test-tube cases, the extracts prevented the growth of the bacteria by up to 0.82 inches (2.08 cm) (20).
Additional research shows that cardamom extract can reduce the number of bacteria in saliva samples by 54% (21).
However, all of these studies have been conducted in test tubes, making it unclear how the results may apply to humans.


SUMMARY
Cardamom is often used to treat bad breath and is a component of some chewing gums. This is because cardamom might be able to kill common mouth bacteria and prevent cavities.


6. May Have Antibacterial Effects and Treat Infections
Cardamom also has antibacterial effects outside of the mouth and may treat infections.
Research shows that cardamom extracts and essential oils have compounds that fight several common strains of bacteria (22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source, 24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source).


One test-tube study examined the impact of these extracts on drug-resistant strains of Candida, a yeastthat can cause fungal infections. The extracts were able to inhibit the growth of some strains by 0.39–0.59 inches (0.99–1.49 cm) (26Trusted Source).


Additional test-tube research found that essential oils and extracts of cardamom were just as, and sometimes more effective than standard drugs against E. coli and Staphylococcus, bacteria that can cause food poisoning (23Trusted Source).
Test-tube studies have also shown that cardamom essential oils fight the bacteria Salmonella that leads to food poisoning and Campylobacter that contributes to stomach inflammation (24Trusted Source, 25Trusted Source).


Existing studies on the antibacterial effects of cardamom have only looked at isolated strains of bacteria in labs. Therefore, the evidence is currently not strong enough to make claims that the spice would have the same effect in humans.


SUMMARY
The essential oils and extracts of cardamom may be effective against a variety of bacterial strains that contribute to fungal infections, food poisoning and stomach issues. However, research has only been conducted in test tubes and not in humans.


7. May Improve Breathing and Oxygen Use
Compounds in cardamom may help increase airflow to your lungs and improve breathing.
When used in aromatherapy, cardamom can provide an invigorating odor that enhances your body’s ability to use oxygen during exercise (27).


One study asked a group of participants to inhale cardamom essential oil for one minute before walking on a treadmill for 15-minute intervals. This group had a significantly higher oxygen uptake compared to the control group (27).
Another way that cardamom may improve breathing and oxygen use is by relaxing your airway. This may be particularly helpful for treating asthma.
A study in rats and rabbits found that injections of cardamom extract could relax the throat air passage. If the extract has a similar effect in people with asthma, it may prevent their inflamed airways from restricting and improve their breathing (28).


SUMMARY
Cardamom may improve breathing by stimulating better oxygen uptake and relaxing air passage to the lungs in humans and animals.
. May Lower Blood Sugar Levels
When taken in powder form, cardamom may lower blood sugar.


One study found that feeding rats a high-fat, high-carb (HFHC) diet caused their blood sugar levels to remain elevated longer than if they were fed a normal diet (15Trusted Source).


When rats on the HFHC diet were given cardamom powder, their blood sugar did not stay elevated for longer than the blood sugar of rats on a normal diet (15Trusted Source).


However, the powder may not have the same effect in humans with type 2 diabetes.
In a study in over 200 adults with this condition, participants were divided into groups that took only black tea or black tea with three grams of either cinnamon, cardamom or ginger every day for eight weeks (29Trusted Source).


The results showed that cinnamon, but not cardamom or ginger, improved blood sugar control (29Trusted Source).
In order to better understand the effect of cardamom on blood sugar in humans, more studies are needed.

SUMMARY
A study on rats suggests that cardamom may help decrease high blood sugar levels, but more high-quality human studies are needed.

Now is agreat time to take a look at the quality of your food


9. Other Potential Health Benefits of Cardamom
In addition to the aforementioned health benefits, cardamom may be good for your health in other ways as well.
Studies in rats have found that the high antioxidant levels in the spice may prevent both liver enlargement, anxiety and even aid weight loss:


Liver protection: Cardamom extract may decrease elevated liver enzymes, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. They may also prevent liver enlargement and liver weight, which reduces the risk of fatty liver disease (30, 31Trusted Source, 32Trusted Source, 33Trusted Source).


Anxiety: One rat study suggests that cardamom extract may prevent anxious behaviors. This may be because low blood levels of antioxidants have been linked to the development of anxiety and other mood disorders (34Trusted Source, 35Trusted Source, 36Trusted Source).

Weight loss: A study in 80 overweight and obese prediabetic women found a link between cardamom and slightly reduced waist circumference. However, rat studies on weight loss and the spice have not found significant results (15Trusted Source, 37Trusted Source)
The number of studies on the link between cardamom and these potential benefits is limited and mostly done on animals.


Furthermore, the reasons why the spice may help improve liver health, anxiety and weight are unclear.

SUMMARY:
A limited number of studies suggests that cardamom supplements may decrease waist circumference and prevent anxious behaviors and fatty liver. The reasons behind these effects are unclear but may have to do with the spice’s high antioxidant content.


10. Safe for Most People and Widely Available
Cardamom is generally safe for most people.
The most common way to use cardamom is in cooking or baking. It’s very versatile and often added to Indian curries and stews, as well as gingerbread cookies, bread and other baked goods.


The use of cardamom supplements, extracts and essential oils is likely to become more common in light of the promising results of research on its medicinal uses.
However, there is currently no recommended dose for the spice since most studies have been on animals. The use of supplements should be monitored by a health professional.
Furthermore, cardamom supplements may not be suitable for children and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.


Most supplements recommend 500 mg of cardamom powder or extract once or twice a day.
The FDA does not regulate supplements, so be sure to choose brands that have been tested by a third party if you’re encouraged to try cardamom supplements by a healthcare provider.
If you’re interested in trying cardamom, remember that adding the spice to your foods may be the safest way.

SUMMARY
Using cardamom in cooking is safe for most people. Cardamom supplements and extracts have not been thoroughly researched and should only be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line
Cardamom is an ancient remedy that may have many medicinal properties.
It may lower blood pressure, improve breathing and aid weight loss.


What’s more, animal and test-tube studies show that cardamom may help fight tumors, improve anxiety, fight bacteria and protect your liver, though the evidence in these cases is less strong.
However, little or no human research exists for a number of the health claims associated with the spice. More studies are needed to show if or how the results of preliminary research apply to humans.


Nevertheless, adding cardamom to your cooking may be a safe and effective way to improve your health.
Cardamom extracts and supplements may also provide benefits but should be taken with caution and under the supervision of a doctor.


Source https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cardamom-benefits

Eating healing Oily foods

MCT Oil – Why You Should Consider Adding It To Your Diet

7 Science-Based Benefits of MCT Oil

 

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MCT oil is a supplement often added to smoothies, bulletproof coffee and salad dressings.
As the name suggests, medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil contains medium-length chains of fats called triglycerides. Due to their shorter length, MCTs are easily digested and many health benefits are linked to the way your body processes these fats.

So Let’s Get To The Bottom Line First!

Taking MCT oil could have many benefits and very few risks.

  • For starters, it contains fatty acids that can promote weight loss by reducing body fat, increasing fullness and potentially improving your gut environment.
  • MCTs are also a great source of energy and may fight bacterial growth, help protect your heart and aid in managing diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy and autism.
  • Potential drawbacks may include increased hunger and possible fat accumulation in your liver. However, as long as you keep to 1–2 tablespoons per day and use it to replace — not add — to your normal fat intake, any negative side effects are unlikely.
  • At the end of the day, MCT oil is a convenient way to take advantage of all the health benefits MCTs have to offer.

So where does it originate from

MCT oil is most commonly extracted from coconut oil, as more than 50% of the fat in coconut oil comes from MCTs. These fats are also found in many other foods, such as palm oil and dairy products.

Four different types of MCTs exist, of which caprylic and capric acid are most commonly used for MCT oil. In some cases, these specific types have unique benefits.

Here are 7 science-backed benefits you can get from adding MCT oil to your diet.

1. Promotes Weight Loss in Several Important Ways

There are several reasons why MCT oil may be beneficial when you’re trying to lose weight.

MCT oil has been shown to increase the release of two hormones that promote the feeling of fullness in the body: peptide YY and leptin. It may even be better than coconut oil in keeping you full. One study found that people taking two tablespoons of MCT oil as part of their breakfast ended up eating less food for lunch compared to those taking coconut oil.

The same study also discovered a lower rise in triglycerides and glucose with MCT oil, which may also influence the feeling of fullness.

Additionally, taking MCT oil has been shown to significantly reduce body weight and waist circumference. Researchers even report that it could help prevent obesity.

MCT oil has about 10% fewer calories than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which are found in foods such as olive oil, nuts and avocados

Your body also processes MCTs differently, which may help you burn calories

Your body can use MCT oil as an instant source of energy, making it unnecessary to store fat for this purpose. Nevertheless, it’s important to note that your body may adapt to this dietary change, leading to only temporary results.

MCTs can be converted into ketones, which are produced from the breakdown of fat when carb intake is low. If you’re following a ketogenic diet, which is very low in carbs yet high in fat, then taking MCT oil can help you stay in the fat-burning state known as ketosis.

Lastly, your gut environment is very important when it comes to your weight. MCT oil can help optimize the growth of good bacteria and support the gut lining, which could also help you lose weight.

SUMMARY

MCT oil may support weight loss by increasing fullness, fat loss, energy burning, ketone production and by improving your gut environment.

2. Instant Source of Energy That Can Also Be Used to Fuel Your Brain

MCT oil has been dubbed a super fuel since your body absorbs MCTs more rapidly than long-chain triglycerides (LCTs), which contain more carbons in their fatty acid chains.

Due to their shorter chain length, MCTs travel straight from the gut to the liver and do not require bile to break down like longer-chain fats do.

In the liver, the fats are broken down to be either used as fuel or stored as body fat.

Since MCTs easily enter your cells without being broken down, they can be used as an immediate source of energy.

When you’re on a ketogenic diet, MCTs can also be converted into ketones in the liver.

These ketones can pass through your blood-brain barrier, making them a convenient source of energy for your brain cells.

SUMMARY

MCT oil is easily absorbed and transported throughout the body. It can be used as an instant source of energy or can be converted into ketones to fuel your brain.

3. May Reduce Lactate Buildup in Athletes and Help Use Fat for Energy

MCT oil has gained popularity amongst athletes. During exercise, rising lactate levels can negatively impact exercise performance.

Interestingly, MCTs may help with lactate buildup. One study found that athletes who took 6 grams or about 1.5 teaspoons of MCTs with food before cycling had lower lactate levels and found it easier to exercise, compared to those taking LCTs. Furthermore, the study found that taking the MCT oil before exercise may help you use more fat instead of carbs for energy.

Even though MCTs can increase fat burning during exercise, study results are mixed as to whether MCT oil can help you exercise better. One study showed it could improve swimming capacity in mice, but another human-based study found no improvement in endurance performance in runners.
At the very least, the results of one animal study suggest that MCT oil does not negatively affect exercise performance, which is encouraging.

SUMMARY

MCT oil can increase fat burning and reduce the need for carbs during exercise. However, it is unclear whether this translates to improved exercise performance.

4. Could Help Manage Epilepsy, Alzheimer’s Disease and Autism

Studies have shown that MCT oil and a ketogenic diet may help manage conditions such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, and autism.

Epilepsy

While the ketogenic diet has gained popularity amongst people wishing to lose weight, it was first introduced as a way of managing epilepsy.
Scientists found that fasting increases ketone production and that this may reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures.

Since MTCs can be converted into ketones, they may be beneficial in managing epilepsy. However, the type of MCT may be important. One test-tube study showed that the MCT capric acid improved seizure control better than a widespread anti-epileptic drug.

Another study in rats found that the same MCT blocked receptors in the brain that cause seizures, though more human studies are needed. In addition, it’s important to note that a ketogenic diet is not for everyone and can be challenging to follow long term.

If you are considering a ketogenic diet to help manage your epilepsy, talk to your doctor or nutrition professional first.

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease impairs your brain’s ability to use sugar. An MCT ketogenic diet offers an alternative energy source: ketones. This allows brain cells to survive better. It also blocks a receptor in the brain that causes memory loss.

One study found that a single dose of MCTs improved short-term cognition in 20 people with Alzheimer’s disease with a certain gene type, namely APOE ɛ4-negative.

While genetic factors play a role, evidence suggests that 20–70 grams of supplemental MCTs that include caprylic or capric acid can modestly improve the symptoms of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s.
Overall, the benefits of MCT oil in Alzheimer’s disease are promising, but longer and larger scale studies are needed .

Autism

MCT oil may also help children with autism.
One study found positive overall improvements when a ketogenic diet was followed for 6 months. Another study found that adding MCTs to a ketogenic and gluten-free diet substantially improved autism behaviors for 6 of the 15 children involved. Because autism is a spectrum condition, it can affect people in different ways.

This means that adding MCT oil to your child’s diet may help to varying degrees or may show no positive effects. More research is needed here, as well.
If you are considering a ketogenic diet to help manage your child’s autism, talk to your doctor or nutrition professional first.

SUMMARY

MCT oil may improve brain function, which could have benefits for people with epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and autism.

5. Contains Powerful Fatty Acids That Fight Yeast and Bacterial Growth

MCTs have been shown to have antimicrobial and anti fungal effects.
Coconut oil, which contains a large amount of MCTs, has been shown to reduce the growth of Candida albicans by 25%. This is a common yeast that can cause thrush and various skin infections.

A test-tube study also showed that coconut oil reduced the growth of a disease-causing bacteria called Clostridium difficile.
Coconut oil’s ability to reduce yeast and bacterial growth may be due to the caprylic, capric and lauric acid in MCTs.

MCTs themselves have also been shown to suppress the growth of a widespread infectious fungus in hospitals by up to 50%. However, note that most of the research on MCTs and immune support has been conducted via test-tube or animal studies. High-quality human studies are needed before stronger conclusions can be made.

SUMMARY

MCT oil contains fatty acids that have been shown to reduce the growth of yeast and bacteria. Overall, MCTs may have a variety of antimicrobial and anti-fungal effects.

6. May Reduce Risk Factors for Heart Disease, Such as Weight and Cholesterol

Heart disease is a growing problem. Some factors that increase your risk include high cholesterol, blood pressure, inflammation, being overweight and smoking.

MCT oil has been shown to support weight and fat loss. This may, in turn, help reduce your risk of heart disease.  A study of 24 overweight men found that taking MCT oil combined with phytosterols and flaxseed oil for 29 days reduced total cholesterol by 12.5%. However, when olive oil was used instead, the reduction was only 4.7%.

The same study also found better reductions in LDL or “bad” cholesterol when the MCT oil mixture was added to their diet. Moreover, MCT oil can also increase the production of heart-protective HDL or “good” cholesterol .
It can even significantly reduce C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammatory marker that increases the risk of heart disease. Additional studies found that MCT-oil-based mixtures can have a positive effect on other heart disease risk factors, as well.

SUMMARY
MCT oil may reduce heart disease risk factors such as weight, cholesterol and inflammation. Adding it to your diet could help lower your risk of heart disease.

7. May Help Control Blood Sugar Levels and Support Diabetes Management

MCT oil may also have benefits for those with diabetes. Most people with type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese, which makes diabetes harder to manage. However, MCTs have been shown to reduce fat storage and increase fat burning.
One small Chinese study of 40 people with diabetes found that those who consumed MCT oil daily had significant reductions in body weight, waist circumference and insulin resistance, compared to those taking corn oil containing LCTs.

Another study found that when 10 people with diabetes were injected with insulin, they needed 30% less sugar to maintain normal blood sugar levels when they consumed MCTs, compared to LCTs. However, the same study did not find any effect of MCTs on reducing fasting blood sugar levels. Therefore, other factors such as timing and the amount of food eaten may influence the effects of MCT oil.

SUMMARY

MCT oil may help manage diabetes by reducing fat storage and increasing fat burning. It may also help you control your blood sugar.

Potential Drawbacks of MCT Oil

Although MCTs are considered safe, they may have some disadvantages.

May Stimulate the Release of Hunger Hormones

While MCTs can increase the release of hormones that help you feel fuller longer, they may also stimulate the release of hunger hormones in some people
A study on people with anorexia found that MCTs increased the release of two hormones that stimulate appetite: ghrelin and neuropeptide Y.

People who took more than 6 grams of MCTs per day produced more of these hormones than those who had less than 1 gram per day.
However, it is unclear whether the increase in these hormones actually causes you to eat more.

High Doses Could Lead to Fat Buildup in the Liver

High doses of MCT oil may increase the amount of fat in your liver in the long term.
One 12-week study in mice found that a diet in which 50% of the fats were MCTs increased liver fat. Interestingly, the same study also found that MCTs reduced total body fat and improved insulin resistance.

However, keep in mind that high doses of MCT oil, such as those in the study above, are not recommended. Overall, more research is needed on the long-term effects of MCT oil.

MCTs are high in calories and usually only make up about 5–10% of your total calorie intake. If you are trying to maintain or lose weight, you should consume MCT oil as part of your total amount of fat intake and not as an additional amount of fat.

SUMMARY

MCT oil increases the release of hunger hormones, which could lead to increased food intake. In the long term, it may also increase the amount of fat in your liver.

Source Previously Written by Sharon O’Brien on May 14, 2018

Further reading:

MCT Oil 101 – A Review of Medium-Chain Triglycerides

Written by Mary Jane Brown, PhD, RD (UK)

Supplementing with MCT oil is a popular way to cause fat loss and increase energy levels. MCT stands for medium-chain triglyceride.

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