Essential Nutritional Categories: towards an understanding of which nutritional supplements should be taken, how many and for how long. Part Five.
Phytoestrogens, the most important Phytohormones:
Phytoestrogens are compounds that occur naturally in plants and, under certain circumstances, can have actions like human estrogen. Phytoestrogens are commonly found in foods such as beans, cabbage, soybeans and grain. These nutrients help support communication among the body’s organs. They have been shown to support the body’s wellbeing against heart problems and weak immune systems.
- Saponins; the most important being diosgenin which comes from the wild yam root of the Dioscrea plant.
- Isoflavones are found abundantly in legumes or beans
- Lignins are found in seeds, particularly in flax seed
The Best Known Antioxidants:
Antioxidants are involved in the prevention of cellular damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are atoms with an abnormal number of electrons and can be formed when oxygen interacts with certain molecules. They can do immense damage when they react with important cellular machinery such as DNA, or the cell coverings. The body’s defense system utilizes antioxidants. The best currently known antioxidants are:
- Quercetin which is both fat and water soluble. Helps reduce inflammation, lowers blood pressure and supports the heart and is found in apples, onions, parsley and red wine
- Grape skin extract is water soluble and is known to protect the body against weak immune systems and heart problems
- Green tea is water soluble and is known to help the liver and stop infections by supporting the immune system
- Bush plum is water soluble and has the highest known concentration of vitamin C and helps the body repair tissue and the healing of wounds found in the Australian Bush Plum
Colostrum and Lactoferrin:
Colostrum or the mother’s first milk and is an important immune system builder. Consider how important lack of colostrum can be:
“If a calf, foal, puppy, etc. experiences difficulties at birth and is unable to nurse for 12 to 18 it will probably die. This is due to the re-absorption of immuno-factors by the mother.” 6
Lactoferrin is known to be a biologically active glycoprotein and helps activate the immune system and benefits intestinal cell health.
To Your Health,
Jack Kettler
Certified Wellness Consultant (DSHEA Certified) (Diplomat in Nutritional Education and Health)
Extended Bio
Mr. Kettler is an ordained Presbyterian Elder and the owner of Undergroundnotes.com where his theological, philosophical and political articles can be read. He has worked in corporate America for over 30 years and is now realizing his dreams as a successful home business entrepreneur. Permission is hereby granted to reprint this article as long as my web site is retained in the biographical information. Mr. Kettler can be contacted by e-mail at: jack@kettlerwellness.com
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