Powerful Nutrient Pairings for Better Health
, by Hi-Health, 2 min reading time
, by Hi-Health, 2 min reading time
These powerful couples work together to deliver maximum nutrient absorption and health.
Vitamin B6 (abundant in pistachios, tuna, turkey, chickpeas, and avocado) has been shown to help body cells absorb magnesium (a nutrient found in kale and other dark leafy greens, pumpkin seeds, salmon, and soybeans) and other minerals. Multiple studies conducted on children with autism and ADHD showed that when children took magnesium and vitamin B6 supplements together, they displayed improved social interaction and communication and less hyperactivity. In addition, there is some evidence that the combination of magnesium and vitamin B6 can reduce PMS symptoms.
Both considered antioxidant nutrients, vitamin E and resveratrol may work better together than either nutrient does alone to protect against cardiovascular disease. Resveratrol, which is found most highly concentrated in the skin and seeds of red grapes, is a polyphenol that protects against injury, fungal infection, and overexposure to UV radiation in plants—and scientists believe resveratrol may offer similar protective benefits in humans. Vitamin E (a nutrient found abundantly in almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach, and avocado) is a powerful antioxidant that that protects cells from free radical damage and promotes natural aging and cardiovascular health.
Prebiotics are naturally found in many foods or can be isolated from plants. They stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial intestinal bacteria, known as probiotics, that are associated with health and well-being. Some probiotic containing foods are yogurt and kombucha with live bacteria strains and other cultured dairy, such as kefir. Also, fermented foods such as tempeh, kimchi, and sauerkraut can be good probiotics sources. Prebiotic foods are beans and lentils, flaxseed, whole grains, chicory root, bananas, artichokes, and dietary supplements.
BY: JESSIE SHAFER, RD
Article from November/December 2015 Living Healthy Everyday Magazine. Download your copy here.