Dietary iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in the body. It is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is also involved in energy production, immune function, and cognitive development. Sources of Iron: 1. Heme Iron: Heme iron is found in animal-based foods, such as red meat, poultry, and seafood. It is more easily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron. Heme iron sources include beef, pork, lamb, and organ meats like liver. Poultry, such as chicken…
Author: John GK
Dried taro lean pork soup, also known as 芋干瘦肉汤 (yù gān shòu ròu tāng) in Chinese, is a traditional Chinese soup made with dried taro, lean pork, and various herbs and spices. It is believed to have various health benefits. Benefits: Nutritious: Dried taro is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C. Lean pork is a good source of protein and essential amino acids. Digestive health: The fiber in dried taro can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. Blood circulation: Dried tangerine peel, which is often added to the soup, is believed to…
Calcium is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It is primarily known for its role in maintaining strong bones and teeth, but it is also involved in other important functions such as muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. Recommended Intake The recommended daily intake of calcium varies depending on age and gender. For adults aged 19-50, the recommended daily intake is 1000 milligrams (mg) for both men and women. Women over the age of 50 and men over the age of 70 have slightly higher recommendations, at 1200 mg per day. It’s important…
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the growth, development, and repair of body tissues. It is also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Here are some detailed points about Vitamin C, including recommended intakes, sources, dietary supplements, deficiency, health benefits, and health risks from excessive intake, explained in a conversational manner with examples: 1. Recommended Intakes: – The recommended daily intake of Vitamin C varies depending on age, sex, and life stage. – For adults, the recommended daily intake is 75-90 mg for women…
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. It is unique because it can be synthesized by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is also found in certain foods and can be obtained through supplements. Recommended Intakes: – The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age and life stage. For infants up to 12 months, the recommended intake is 400 international units (IU) per day. For children and adults up to 70 years old, the recommended intake is 600 IU per day. For adults over…
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Qi (pronounced “chee”) is a fundamental concept that refers to the vital energy or life force that flows through the body. It is considered the foundation of health and well-being. Qi is an invisible force that animates and sustains all living things. It is the energy that circulates through the body’s meridians or energy pathways, nourishing and supporting the organs, tissues, and cells. Here are some key points to understand Qi in TCM: Types of Qi: TCM recognizes different types of Qi, each with its own functions and locations in the body. Some examples include: …
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It exists in two forms: preformed vitamin A, which is found in animal sources such as liver, eggs, and dairy products, and provitamin A carotenoids, which are found in plant sources such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens. The Importance of Vitamin A Intake of vitamin A is important because it is an essential nutrient that the body needs for various functions. Here are some reasons why it is important to consume vitamin A: 1. Vision: Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining good…
Thiamin, also known as vitamin B1, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the body’s metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It plays a crucial role in converting food into energy and is important for the proper functioning of the nervous system, muscles, and heart. The recommended daily intake of thiamin varies depending on age, sex, and specific health conditions. For adults, the recommended daily intake is 1.1-1.2 mg for men and 0.8-1.1 mg for women. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. Thiamin is found naturally in a variety of foods. Good sources of thiamin include whole…
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for various bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, helping convert them into energy. Biotin also supports the health of the skin, hair, and nails. The recommended daily intake of biotin for adults is 30 micrograms (mcg). Pregnant and breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. Biotin can be obtained from a variety of food sources, including eggs, nuts, seeds, fish, meat, dairy products, and certain fruits and vegetables. Biotin deficiency is rare, as it is found…