Vitamin K refers to a group of fat-soluble vitamins that play a crucial role in blood clotting. They act as a co-factor for seven vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, because without vitamin K, your blood is unable to clot. You get vitamin K from a variety of foods in your diet.
Read more →
Kelp supplements are commonly marketed for their rich mineral content and are particularly rich in iodine -- a trace mineral that your body needs in small amounts to function properly. As with all such aids, consult your physician before taking kelp supplements; they have the potential to cause unwanted side effects.
Read more →
For years, dermatologists asserted that diet had no influence on acne vulgaris, known simply as acne. However, recent research suggests certain foods may trigger or worsen this skin condition. Talk to your dermatologist about dietary changes that may help if you have cystic acne -- a severe form.
Read more →
Weight Watchers encourages balanced eating through a point system that assigns lower points to nutritious foods and higher points to less healthy foods. Instead of denying yourself treats, you simply deduct the points from your daily allotment, and aim to remain within your target range.
Read more →
Your body, especially your brain, depends on a consistent level of blood sugar. Things can go awry when the amount of sugar in your blood is outside of the normal range. A sugar crash is when your blood glucose drops below normal. It occurs in people with diabetes, as well as those who don't have diabetes.
Read more →
Animal foods, including seafood, contain some cholesterol. Whether you need to limit or avoid certain foods due to their cholesterol content depends on the rest of your diet and whether you are at risk for heart disease.
Read more →
Writing down what you eat provides a complete picture of your dietary habits. This can help you lose weight, achieve specific eating goals or zero in on a potential food intolerance.
Read more →
Irritable bowel syndrome can cause abdominal discomfort, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and gas. Science has yet to find a cure; however, making some changes in your diet may bring relief from IBS symptoms.
Read more →
Fish are a good source of protein and other nutrients and an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. They are low in saturated fat, promote heart health and are part of a well-balanced diet. However, as a pregnant woman, you must reduce your exposure to chemicals that can harm your growing baby.
Read more →
Because nuts contain rich amounts of fat, you may assume you need to stay away from them while following a weight-loss diet. To the contrary, you can make nuts a part of your diet and still lose weight. In fact, data suggests that incorporating nuts into your diet may provide weight-loss benefits.
Read more →
Reducing blood pressure is a major health concern in the United States, where more than 30 percent of adults have high blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke, and dietary choices play a role.
Read more →
One of the most common reasons for a change in the color of your bowel movement is when you've introduced a new vitamin, nutritional supplement or medication into your daily regimen.
Read more →
The large intestine, commonly known as the colon, is a critical component of the digestive system. It's most responsible for absorbing water from indigestible food matter and passing waste material from the body.
Read more →
Monosodium glutamate is a food additive that enhances the flavor of savory foods. It's added to a wide variety of foods and found naturally in foods such as tomatoes and cheese. Eaten in typical amounts, MSG is considered safe, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Read more →
Health food bars are meant to supplement an otherwise healthy diet, whether it's as a snack, a meal replacement or to help you power through your workouts. Breakfast bars and cereal bars are commonly marketed as a fiber-rich snack. The problem is, not all fiber bars are created equal.
Read more →
Caffeine exists in the typical diet from various sources, particularly beverages such as tea, coffee and cola drinks. A naturally occurring substance found in certain plants, caffeine stimulates the central nervous system.
Read more →
If you have a history of bladder infections, it's a good idea to steer clear of soda until your condition improves. While soda does not cause bladder infections, it can aggravate your symptoms.
Read more →
All packaged foods come with a nutrition label meant to provide you with the information necessary to know exactly what you're eating. Understanding what's in the foods you eat helps you make healthier choices. Checking food labels also makes it easy for you to compare the nutrient content of different options.
Read more →
The misinformation circulating about kava, a South Pacific herb, may leave you questioning its legality in the United States. Kava is sold as a dietary supplement and marketed for promoting sleep and relaxation. In the United States, kava is legal for personal use as a dietary supplement. The U.
Read more →
Soybeans contain rich amounts of vegetable protein. Americans commonly eat soybeans and soy foods in place of animal protein in vegetarian diets, but science suggests soybeans are beneficial for more than just their protein content.
Read more →