Niacin is also known as vitamin B-3 and helps your body convert food into energy, plays a role in sex and stress hormone production, reduces cholesterol and improves circulation. A niacin deficiency is rare, but a vegetarian diet poses a higher risk since many meats are good sources of this vitamin.
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Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Some people experience hypothyroidism as a result of an autoimmune disorder in which the body attacks its own cells, resulting in diminished thyroid hormone excretion.
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Cottage cheese provides high-quality protein, calcium and vitamin B-12, and you can consume it on its own or in a variety of recipes. However, you might need substitutions for cottage cheese if you get tired of eating it, do not like its taste or are unable to consume dairy products.
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Digestion is the process in which your body decreases the size of the food particles you eat until they are small enough to be absorbed. Absorption occurs when these small molecules of food particles pass from your digestive system, or gut, into your bloodstream so your body can benefit from the nutrients they contain.
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The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland that sits at the front of your throat. Your thyroid uses the mineral iodine and the amino acid tyrosine to produce two primary thyroid hormones known as T3 and T4. These hormones influence the rate at which your body uses energy -- your metabolic rate.
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If you sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on your oatmeal every morning because you’ve heard it’s good for you, you’re not alone.
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Low levels of iron in the blood cause a condition known as iron-deficiency anemia, which results in fatigue, irritability and an increased heart rate. If you have anemia, you may need to introduce more iron into your diet.
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Meat of any kind is one of the richest protein sources you can find, and even thinly sliced cold cuts provide a healthy dose with every serving.
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Peanut oil, made by pressing peanuts, has a rich flavor, several health benefits, as well as some negative side effects. You can drizzle it on your salad at lunch or use it as a cooking oil to add flare to your chicken entree.
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Long considered a health food, especially if it is low-fat, cottage cheese is a rich source of essential nutrients, including calcium and protein. Because your body digests cottage cheese slowly, it is prized by athletes, fitness buffs or anyone who wants to stay well-nourished throughout a long day.
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Although the body's need for carbohydrates and protein is well-known, varying beliefs exist regarding whether you should eat them together. Carbs provide glucose -- your body's main dietary source of energy.
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Beet greens and radish greens are not only safe to eat, they are packed with nutritional value. Both are hardy plants that are easy to grow. You might even want to grow them primarily for their leaves, which can be harvested gradually as the plant matures.
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In its native tropical environment, the coconut, or Cocos nucifera, is a source of food and is used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections, upset stomach, wounds, bronchitis and coughs. Coconut oil may have anti-inflammatory and fever-reducing abilities.
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From crash dieting to eating fast food on the run, teens often lack crucial nutrients in their diets. Getting enough iron is especially important for teen girls, who need more many other populations.
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Milk and cheese are popular dairy products that offer nutritional value and many health benefits. The milk used in these products can be derived from cows, sheep or goats. The final product varies depending on the milk type and production process and can range from creamy fresh milk to hard, spicy cheese.
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Sprouting seeds and beans increases their vitamin levels, according to David B. Fankhauser, Ph.D. at the University of Cleveland Claremont College. Sprouted lentil beans contain vitamins A, B, C and E, all of which are important to your overall health.
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The root of the ginger plant or, Zingiber officinale, is a well-known Asian seasoning and an aromatic ingredient in ginger ale, ginger beer and over-the-counter herbal cough remedies. Ginger may be helpful for reducing some minor throat symptoms, but clinical tests confirming its effectiveness are lacking.
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Brazil nuts get their name from their host tree, the Brazil tree. A hard-shelled nut, they grow inside a round fruit that looks similar to a coconut. Also known as cream and Para nuts, Brazil nuts are a source of non-animal based protein and are rich in selenium.
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Adderall, or dextroamphetamine and amphetamine, can be a godsend for people who have attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, but it may complicate things for serious athletes. If you only work out casually to stay in shape, you really don't need supplements.
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Edema is the retention of fluids in the body. Common signs include swelling, mostly in the feet, ankles and legs, and sometimes, the face and fingers may appear puffy. Edema is most common in pregnant women and the elderly, but anyone can develop this symptom.
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