Where does curcumin come from? Curcumin, along with the rest of the family of curcuminoids, are important components in turmeric root that have been found to have a range biological activity. Turmeric is not only popular in Asian countries in cooking, but is used in different forms for herbal medicines [1]. Recent reviews [2-5] describe how curcuminoids may help in ...

Why are omega-3’s important? Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular DHA and EPA, are widely known as important, naturally occurring compounds that offer significant protection to the cardiovascular system. They work together to provide the building blocks needed to support healthy blood vessel and heart muscle function, and to balance fatty acids and cholesterol around the body. EPA has been shown ...

The ageing brain The brain is a complicated network of connected cells and tissues that works a lot like a computer. It enables us to store memory, process complicated information, communicate and perform complex tasks. Many of these happen automatically, without us even thinking about it. Our brain is like a car that we never sell. We get it when ...

For centuries, it has been believed that the benefits of the drinking moderate amounts of wine is therapeutic and is regarded as a factor in the diet that contributes to healthy ageing in European countries. This protective effect is also known as the “French paradox”. We now know that grapes contain some important plant substances that may be involved in ...

Introduction We normally think of slowing down in old age, taking it easy and enjoying a life of leisure. For some, this may include more rounds of golf, walking the dog, swimming, gardening, bush walking or many other activities. What you may not realise is that these physical activities are not only a healthy way to spend leisure time but ...

Introduction Fucoidans are believed to be connected to healthy aging through their multitude of biological effects, including their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, blood pressure lowering and cardioprotective properties [1]. These may contribute to the more favourable rates of disease and life expectancy observed in countries such as Japan, where kelp is routinely consumed [2]. In assisting the immune system, the additional antimicrobial ...

What is it? Discovered in 1957, coenzyme (CoQ10) is a fat-soluble antioxidant made by the body’s cells, and it is concentrated in the energy producing parts called mitochondria. CoQ10 is part of a complex series of processes that convert the oxygen we breathe in into the water we pass out. In between, the cells extract energy, particular in tissues that ...

Black pepper is more than just a spice that enhances flavour to food. It also offers several health benefits, owing to its active compounds, such as piperine, that may help to help with digestion, immunity, metabolism, and skin problems [1]. Black pepper is a great source for minerals such as potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, and vitamins such as B-complex ...

Bees have an amazing ability to convert plant and flower products into energy and nutrients that are used to feed their hive-mates. These roles of the honeybee species (Apis mellifera) are probably the most well-characterized and have formed the basis of a global industry in foods and medicines. Bees create multiple types of products that have potentially beneficial effects in ...

What is smoking and why do people do it? Smoking of dried tobacco leaves has been, and continues to be, an addictive pastime practiced all over the world. More recently, this has been superseded by e-device inhalation (vaping) of pure nicotine extracts and other substances. For centuries, tobacco leaves have been dried, cut up and burned within loaded devices designed ...