Foods

Cobalt, one of the “trace” minerals, is essential in the production of vitamin B12, which in turn helps in the production of red blood cells. It’s called a trace mineral because it is very rare in foods, and you also only need a small amount of it (about 2µg per day at most). Even so, … Read more

Chlorine is more popularly known as the chemical used to disinfect pools, but in reality it offers plenty of health benefits to humans, and is actually required to stay healthy. It helps in maintaining the correct pH balance in the body, as well as promotes protein digestion. It is also important in keeping bones, teeth, … Read more

Arsenic is a naturally-occurring element in rocks and soil. It has a variety of industrial uses, including pesticides, wood preservatives, and metal works. It’s especially effective in pesticides because it’s a highly poisonous substance, which is why it’s important to avoid human ingestion of arsenic beyond 10 parts per billion (ppb), as recommended by the … Read more

Fatty acids, also known as omega-3 fatty acids, are different from other types of fat in that they are actually good to have, and also perform many roles in the human body. Believe it or not, fatty acids help lower the risk of heart disease, and having too little omega-3 in the body can cause … Read more

Cholesterol is a food component that is often perceived to bring negative effects to the body. Actually, cholesterol is present in the membranes of our cells. It is needed in the production of steroid hormones like progesterone and testosterone. However, excessive consumption of foods high in cholesterol may lead to plaque buildup and cause atherosclerosis … Read more

Vitamin B5, which is alternatively called pantothenic acid, is one of the 8 B vitamins that function to convert carbohydrates into usable energy by the body. The recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin B5 for adults is 5 mg a day. Vitamin B5 plays a significant role in producing red blood cells, sex hormones, and … Read more

Sulfur is one of the most abundant chemicals in the body, next to sodium, chlorine, and potassium. Being present in all cells, it is essential in protein synthesis, which in turn is used by the body to produce tissues. Meanwhile, sulfates, sometimes spelled sulfates, are mineral salts that contain sulfur. The oxygen-and-sulfur compound keeps the … Read more

Also known as vitamin B1, thiamine is a water-soluble vitamin that is crucial in cellular function and energy usage from food. It helps convert carbohydrates into energy for metabolism and strength. Deficiency occurs when you consume more alcohol and fewer animal products. Chronic fatigue, gut issues, and muscle wasting are just a few signs that … Read more

Vitamin B9, commonly known as folate or folic acid is a water-soluble B-vitamin. Folic acid is the synthetic form added in supplements and fortified foods. The natural form, folate is better for absorption. This B-vitamin is vital for cell division and growth and also for DNA repair and synthesis. Deficiency may lead to slow development … Read more

The microbes in our gut play a major role in regulating our weight and our overall health, a study has shown. Our pattern of drug use and poor diet has armed the bad bacteria with weapons to win over good bacteria. This imbalance affects our metabolism, immune system and even our mind. By eating foods … Read more