Nuts and its benefit

From the International Nuts and Health SymposiumThe second International Nuts and Health Symposium, held California in 2007 was attended by a range of industry professionals.

The following outcomes were presented at the conference and published in a supplement in The Journal of Nutrition (September 2008 issue).

- Individuals who enjoy nuts regularly, generally have higher intakes of many beneficial nutrients.
- Nuts in moderation may be included in a weight loss regimen.
- Higher nut consumption is associated with lower risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Dietary Supplement - Part 2 - Propolis

What is Propolis?

Propolis has been around for over 45 million years, and has been used by man for thousands of years. Bees create propolis, a natural resin, to build their hives. Numerous case reports have demonstrated propolis to be a potent allergen and sensitizing agent. Therefore, it should be used cautiously in allergic people. Toxicity with propolis is rare, although there are multiple case reports of skin irritation and itching, as well as blood vessel inflammation.

Medicinal use
It is still unclear on the medicinal use on Propolis, however, Propolis is claimed to have the following dietary effects:
- Prevention on cold and flu
- Reduce inflammation and infection
- treatment for rheumatic and other inflammatory diseases

Allergies

Patients should avoid propolis if they have had allergic/hypersensitivity reactions to propolis, Populus nigra L. (black poplar), poplar bud, bee stings/bee products (including honey), or Balsam of Peru.

Last Note
Some of these claims are being clinically investigated and further studies are needed to proves its efficacy.