Most of us consume caffeine in large doses daily, but little of us know about its effects, other than it giving us a lift when we are not feeling quite so energetic, so what specifically is it and what does it do. Caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine) (methyltheobromine) is a stimulant belonging to a chemical group known as…
The effects of growing older are evident to everyone; reduced ability to recover, reduced mobility, diminished elasticity of the skin and so on. However aging or senescence also change the way in which protein intake from the diet stimulates muscle protein synthesis in response to exercise and relaxation states. If you are an individual aged…
Flaxseed oil comes from the seeds of the flax plant. It provides both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential to optimal health. Flaxseed oil contains the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is converted into eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by the body. However whilst flaxseed oil may possess many…
Fats are one of the body’s three essential macronutrients, required for energy and the formation and maintenance of bodily functions. They are comprised of chains of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen molecules, in different shapes, lengths and arrangements.Technically, nearly all fats contain both unsaturated and saturated fatty acids, but they are usually categorised according to the…
Nutrient Reference Value (NRV) (previously known as RDA) The purpose of developing NRV’s (nutrient reference values; previously recommended daily allowances) was to develop standards for acquiring and supplying specific vulnerable population demographics with enough food and nutrients in order that they could maintain functional health. Thus, NRV’s are representative of ensuring that the nutritional requirements…
Egg white protein is available in many powdered and liquid forms for use on its own or as part of a protein shake. In powdered form, egg is usually isolated from the white of the egg (albumen). Egg is a complete protein, with a biological value of 100, and egg whites (albumen) have a biological…
Technically, alcohol (ethyl alcohol) is a nutrient. However, it is one of those nutrients which crosses over into the domain of psychotropic drugs, causing both agonistic and antagonistic effects. Alcohol largely has received largely a wholly negative reputation with regards to health and well-being. The various negative outcomes of alcohol consumption do not require overt…
Casein is the most abundant type of protein in cow’s milk, representing approximately 80% of the protein content. Caseinates exist as small spheres of 100-300µm in size, known as micelles. All types of caseinates contain a rich combination of essential and non-essential amino acids. However, it is important to note that caseinates contain a lower…
Vegetarian and vegan diets come under much scrutiny and disparagement from omnivores, even though much evidence points towards vegans being healthier than omnivores, so are there really any nutritional deficits in those diets and of so what are they? Carbohydrates Vegetarian and vegan diets are proportionately rich in fruits and vegetables, which are nutrient…
Developing lean muscle mass is an undertaking which requires a dedicated focus on nutrition and training. Vegan protein powders represent sports supplements which enable vegans to maintain their dietary requirements, in a quick convenient manner, whilst supporting the achievement of fitness goals. Traditionally, vegans face greater difficulty than their omnivore counterparts in reaching their daily…