Newsletter
Choosing Foods Wisely Is Essential to an Active Healthy Lifestyle
 | Turbo-Charge Your Health with SupernutrientsWhen it comes to eating right for increased health and energy, the best strategy is to choose nutrient-rich foods that follow the Atkins Advantage principles (high protein, high fiber, low sugar, no trans fats and plentiful vitamins and minerals). But how do you choose the best foods? Some recent research findings that may amaze you! From common household spices to powerful new compounds that outdo the old supplement standbys, you'll want to know about “the new kids on the block”: supernutrients. |
An Ordinary Spice That Can Help Control Blood Sugar
New research from the US Department of Agriculture has revealed that ordinary cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant that can also help regulate and control blood sugar. That's right, cinnamon. The plain old kind you buy at the supermarket.
Dr. C. Leigh Broadhurst and her USDA team have identified new phytochemicals in cinnamon called chalcone polymers that act as an “insulin mimic” by increasing glucose metabolism in the cells twenty-fold or more.
When Dr. Broadhurst and team tested the effects on of 49 different herbs, spices and medicinal plants on glucose metabolism, cinnamon was the star of the show. The active ingredient--methylhydroxychalcone polymer, or MHCP--seems to mimic insulin function, making the body more efficient at processing glucose. The study was published in the prestigious Journal of the American College of Nutrition in 2001. Not long after, another study was published in Diabetic Care showing that cinnamon reduced not only blood sugar, but triglycerides, total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol in people with Type 2 diabetes.
Cinnamon also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that appear to be helpful in affecting the pain and stiffness of muscles, joints and menstrual discomfort. Often recommended for digestive function, the spice can help relieve both nausea and abdominal discomfort caused by excess gas.
One of the best parts of the whole cinnamon story is that you can get the best results with the inexpensive cinnamon you’ll find in your supermarket. Now that you know its health benefits, think about adding it to some of your favorite foods (like oatmeal) and drinks (like tea).
Turbo-Charge Your Immune System (and Help Your Liver Out) with NAC
The next time someone tells you not to take vitamins because “you can get all you need from food,” tell them about N-Acetyl-Cysteine.
Our bodies can synthesize NAC from cysteine, an amino acid found in high protein foods, but there are therapeutic effects from occasionally supplementing with larger doses. And NAC itself is not found in food.
NAC helps the body synthesize what is arguably the most important antioxidant we have: glutathione. Glutathione has many protective roles in the body, and helps defend against immune disorders, malignancies and accelerated progression of HIV-related diseases. You might ask: If glutathione is so important, why not just eat more of it or get it as a supplement? The answer: It’s not well absorbed orally. Generally, most nutritionists believe that you’re better off taking supplements (or eating foods) that contain the building blocks of glutathione, and then letting the body make it on its own. Taking NAC is one of the best ways to do that. (Note: another way is through whey protein, which is found in Atkins Advantage bars)
NAC is also a liver-protective that most hospitals use for people with acetaminophen poisoning and other types of liver failure. But even if your liver is in great shape, you can benefit because numerous studies have show the positive antioxidant effects of NAC on immune function. And, it also helps break down mucus. In fact, many nutritionists recommend NAC along with other antioxidants for clients who have upper respiratory infections, colds and mucous. Double-blind research has found that NAC supplements improved symptoms and prevented recurrences in people with chronic bronchitis.
What's So Great About Green Tea?
Green tea has been used as a medicine in China for over four thousand years, and for good reason. The list of benefits is enormous. It’s been shown to be effective against cardiovascular disease, infection, rheumatoid arthritis, and even high cholesterol levels. In fact, green tea lowers your cholesterol ratio--that’s the important number that takes into account both good and bad cholesterol -- by lowering your LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). Nutritionists also believe that green tea is helpful for weight loss, and reducing depression and anxiety. In addition, green tea improves immune function. One study showed that compounds in green tea had an antiviral effect on the flu virus. What's more, there are many studies that show that green tea is a strong weapon against cancer. Evidence for green tea is so overwhelming that the Chemoprevention Branch of the National Cancer Institute has initiated a plan for developing tea compounds as cancer-chemopreventative agents in human trials.
The key to the health benefits of tea can be found in a large group of protective plant based chemicals generally known as phenolic compounds, or polyphenols. Green tea (as well as the even less processed white tea) contains a very powerful group of polyphenols called catechins. One of these catechins in particular--epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG)--is believed to be responsible for the anti-cancer effects of green tea.
Tip: Make a very strong cup of green tea using five tea bags, then squeeze in some lemon, dilute with a quart of water and refrigerate. You’ll have a delicious beverage that lasts all day. If you really can’t see your way to drinking three to five cups of green tea a day, remember that EGCG is available in supplement form. A good dose is 500mg to 1000mg a day.
We've covered three exciting new research areas in the field of supernutrients--how would you like to learn about 11 more? Be sure to sign up for the latest free course at the Atkins Learning Center: New Kids on the Block: 14 Health-Promoting Compounds You Should Know About." You'll explore the latest research on supplements, food ingredients and plant chemicals (known as phytochemicals) that can have a significant impact on your well-being. This free, instructor-led course has a lively Message Board where you can ask questions and discuss your health and nutritional goals with others. And while you're there, check out our other great course offerings at the Atkins Learning Center. See you in class!
Recipe of the Month
Cinnamon Custard
 | Cinnamon is one of our featured “supernutrients”. It is a great,
natural spice to help regulate and control blood sugar. This Cinnamon
Custard is similar to flan, but without the extra sugar, and it makes a
delectable finale to any meal. 2 cups heavy cream |
 | What’s New: Breaking news in nutritionThe Growing List of Benefits From InulinInulin,
the fiber found in many Atkins Advantage products, is being shown to
have multiple health benefits. Read about the latest research here. The Importance of FiberWell over 20 studies confirm that fiber is associated with better weight management. But that’s not the only reason to get more fiber. Read about the importance of fiber here. |
More courses from the Atkins Learning Center
 | The Atkins Learning Center
is a dedicated resource available 24/7. Courses are taught by
subject-matter experts on message boards where you can interact with
instructors and fellow students at any time. Exercise for the Rest of Us: How to Become More Fit and Active New Kids on the Block: 14 Health-Promoting Compounds You Should Know About The Atkins Nutritional Approach™: Getting Started and Staying Focused Discussion Group The Healthy Living
Discussion Group |
Nutrition on the Go!
When you don't have time to stop for a meal, choose a tasty, nutritious Granola Bar from Atkins Advantage(TM)!
- High Protein
- Good Source of Fiber
- 19 Vitamins & Minerals
- Excellent source of Calcium
- 0g of Sugar
