How Coca Cola Affects Your Body In 60 Minutes

We all know Coca Cola is laden with sugar and that, at a push, you could use it to clean your toilet. But it's a bit of a mystery as to what it does to your body.

Now, thanks to Niraj Naik, we have the answer to that question.

The brains behind website The Renegade Pharmacist has revealed exactly what a refreshing can of Coke does to your system within the first hour of drinking it. And it's not pretty.

First 10 minutes

10 teaspoons of sugar hit your system. (100% of your recommended daily intake.) You don't immediately vomit from the overwhelming sweetness because phosphoric acid cuts the flavour, allowing you to keep it down.

20 minutes in

Your blood sugar spikes, causing an insulin burst. Your liver responds to this by turning any sugar it can get its hands on into fat. (There’s plenty of that at this particular moment)

40 minutes in

Caffeine absorption is complete. Your pupils dilate, your blood pressure rises, as a response your livers dumps more sugar into your bloodstream. The adenosine receptors in your brain are now blocked preventing drowsiness.

45 minutes in

Your body ups your dopamine production stimulating the pleasure centres of your brain. This is physically the same way heroin works, by the way.

60 minutes in

The phosphoric acid binds calcium, magnesium and zinc in your lower intestine, providing a further boost in metabolism. This is compounded by high doses of sugar and artificial sweeteners also increasing the urinary excretion of calcium.

After 60 minutes

The caffeine’s diuretic properties come into play. (It makes you have to pee.) It is now assured that you’ll evacuate the bonded calcium, magnesium and zinc that was headed to your bones as well as sodium, electrolyte and water.

As the rave inside of you dies down you’ll start to have a sugar crash. You may become irritable and/or sluggish. You’ve also now, literally, pissed away all the water that was in the Coke. But not before infusing it with valuable nutrients your body could have used for things like having the ability to hydrate your system or build strong bones and teeth.

On his site, Naik writes: "I discovered that a trigger factor for many widespread diseases of the west such as obesity, heart disease and diabetes could be closely linked to the consumption of one particular substance found in many processed foods and drinks – fructose in the form of high fructose corn syrup.

"High fructose corn syrup is found in pretty much all processed foods such as ready meals, fast foods, sweets and fizzy drinks and most people are totally unaware of its danger."

The Renegade Pharmacist tells HuffPost UK Lifestyle that he was inspired to teach people about their dietary choices after managing to heal himself of a chronic auto-immune condition.

"I used a combination of different techniques that I discovered by researching others who had healed themselves," he explains.

"My method combines self hypnosis, meditation, special breathing exercises based on Himalayan monks, having a very low-carb diet that's free from factory based foods and taking a special supplement called Colostrum."

When Naik worked as a community pharmacist, he says he was able to successfully wean people off longterm medication - particularly for health issues such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

"Many of them would consume fizzy drinks on a daily basis," he says. "A few, on several medications, would consume between two and three cans a day. In one case a guy was on every heart drug under the sun and taking big doses."

Naik went through the patient's diet and found that he was drinking up to 15 cups of coffee a day with 2/3 spoonfuls of sugar in each cup.

"I was even more shocked to find out his doctor had not asked him about what he ate or drank and just stuck him on strong meds for life," he says.

So, the pharmacist created his own system to help patients overcome their conditions.

"My first piece of advice to them would be to do a simple swap," he explains, "replacing fizzy drinks with water and fresh lemon or lime juice.

"In many cases just doing this would have a dramatic effect on their health.

"This indicates to me that fizzy drinks and sugar are big issues relating to blood pressure and metabolic diseases like diabetes and heart disease."

Article Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2015/07/29/how-coca-cola-affects-body-infographic_n_7895304.html?utm_hp_ref=uk-health

Superfood energy - fuel for life!

According to the NHS, one in five of us feel unusually tired at any one moment in time. And many more of us suffer from periodic energy dips throughout the day. Unfortunately, our modern diet, which is high in processed convenience foods, lacks the vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients necessary to sustain energy and is one of the main causes of fatigue. Indeed, the only way to demonstrably boost energy levels and banish tiredness for good, is by enjoying a wholesome, balanced diet that incorporates a range of natural superfoodsknown to promote increased levels of energy – superfood energy that in turns provides welcome fuel for life!

What is energy?

Our body requires energy for several purposes – to grow, keep active, maintain sufficient body heat and most importantly, to stay alive. We obtain our energy, our fuel for life, from the nutrients found in the food and drink that we consume on a daily basis.

Which nutrients provide energy?

Energy is predominantly provided by carbohydrates, protein and fat, although there are some other, often-overlooked nutrients that are just as important in furnishing our body with the right levels of energy.

1. Carbohydrates

Carbs are our body’s primary source of fuel, supplying energy to the brain, heart and every other system in our body, as well as up to 50% of the energy required for light physical activity and exercise.

2. Fat

Those watching their weight often avoid foods that contain fat. However, fats are absolutely crucial for energy production. They also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E and K. Unlike harmful saturated fats, healthy fats (such as omega-3 fatty acids) are positively good for us and in addition to providing energy, can also help to protect us from heart disease and certain types of cancer.

3. Protein

Protein is necessary for the healthy growth and repair of our body tissue, internal organs and skin. Our body also converts excess protein into fat for use as energy in lieu of sufficient quantities of carbs or fats.

4. Vitamins

Although vitamins do not directly supply energy, they do assist in the conversion of other nutrients into energy – vitamins B1 and B2 help to convert carbs into energy for example – and they also enable our cells to transfer energy to the brain and the rest of our body.

5. Minerals

Again, minerals do not produce energy, however, they do facilitate the use of it. Iron, for example, aids in the manufacture of cellular energy and plays an important role in energy metabolism, whilst manganese is necessary for the healthy function of mitochondria (energy-producing cell structures) and aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids.

6. Water

Believe it or not, in order to benefit from adequate levels of energy, it’s also important to drink plenty of water. Water regulates body temperature, transports nutrients to cells, aids digestion and without it our body’s cells would not receive energy from other nutrients.

Superfood energy – 7 superfoods that boost energy!

Superfoods are referred to as superfoods for good reason. They’re pure, natural foods that by definition are low in calories and extraordinarily rich in beneficial nutrients, including carbs, protein, vitamins, minerals and healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids. All the nutrients in fact that we now know are essential in maintaining adequate levels of energy throughout the day!

Superfood energy is fuel for life. And you can start enjoying more superfood energy today, simply by adding some of the 7 energy-rich superfoods below to your weekly shop.

Top 7 superfoods for superfood energy

1) Organic cacao powder

According to leading natural health and nutrition expert, David Wolfe, raw cacao is the number one choice when it comes to superfood energy. Organic cacao powder contains a unique blend of nutrients that can help you dramatically boost your energy levels, including:

• Magnesium – raw cacao is the richest dietary source of magnesium on earth. Magnesium is a superb source of energy that optimises oxygen use to increase energy levels and burn calories. It’s estimated that around 7 out of 10 UK women suffer from a lack of magnesium, which results in fatigue, weakness, anxiety, irritability, and, you’ve guessed it, lack of energy!
• Iron – which aids in the manufacture of cellular energy and plays an important role in energy metabolism.
• Manganese – which is necessary for healthy energy-producing cell structures known as mitochondria and aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids.
• PEA (phenylethylamine) – PEA (also known as the ‘love drug’) heightens libido and boosts energy levels, alertness and concentration.
• Theobromine – a mild, natural stimulant that helps to burn fat for energy.

Organic cacao powder possesses a tempting chocolate flavour and a powerful aroma, and is an ideal ingredient in homemade raw chocolate, energy bars, smoothies and desserts.

2) Organic hemp protein powder

Consuming a daily amount of organic hemp protein powder is another great way to obtain pure, unadulterated superfood energy. Made from the hemp plant – one of the oldest plants on earth – hemp protein powder contains the following energy-rich nutrients:

• Protein – organic hemp protein powder consists of more than 60% Edestin (vegetable protein), the highest percentage of all plant species. Edestin is considered the most edible and readily digestible form of protein there is.
• Omega-3 fatty acids – healthy fats that your body converts directly into energy.
• Magnesium
• Iron

Deliciously creamy and faintly nutty in flavour, organic hemp protein powder can be stirred into your daily smoothie, shake or protein drink.

3) Organic raisins

Organic raisins are a superlative source of superfood energy. That’s because they’re bursting with energy-wielding nutrients, such as:

• Carbohydrates – your body’s primary source of fuel. On average organic raisins contain a whopping 75 grams of carbs per every 100 grams.
• Iron – a 100-gram serving of organic raisins contains approximately 10% of your RDA for iron.

Organic raisins make a tasty, yet wholesome snack between meals and are an irresistible addition to homemaderaw chocolate and energy bars.

4) Organic Coconut OIL

Enjoying organic coconut oil is a fast and sure way to increase your energy, as it contains such high levels of healthy saturated fats that are essential for energy production. In particular, more than half of the fats found in coconut oil are:

• Medium chain fatty acids – also known as medium chain triglycerides or MCTs for short. Your body is able to metabolise MCTs far more rapidly than long chain fats, enabling them to be quickly burned as energy, rather than stored as unwelcome layers of fat.

Coconut oil boasts a wonderfully fragrant aroma and is the perfect alternative to standard cooking oils that are typically high in unhealthy processed fats, such as trans fats.

5) Organic Goji berries

Goji berries are arguably one of the most nutritious fruits on the planet and one that delivers a superior dose of superfood energy. Organic goji berries are brimming with the following energy producing nutrients:

• Protein – goji berries are a complete source of protein and amino acids.
• Vitamin B1 & B2 – which play a crucial role in converting carbohydrates into energy.

Organic Goji berries are also considered a powerful adaptogen that can help to reduce stress and cortisol levels, thus allowing your body to burn more fat for energy.

Goji berries are a yummy addition to trail mix, breakfast granolas, raw chocolate and energy bars and may also be enjoyed by the handful, straight from the bag.

6) Brazilian ginseng powder

Brazilian ginseng powder is a superfood extract made from the root of the Pfaffia Paniculata – it is rich in several energy boosting nutrients, including:

• Vitamins B1 & B2
• Magnesium
• Beta-ecdysterone – a natural anabolic agent which enhances athletic performance, yet without the kind of side affects typically associated with steroids.
• Germanium – which is thought to increase the supply of oxygen to your body’s cells and thus have a positive influence on energy and stamina.

South American tribes have been using Brazilian ginseng to boost their energy levels for centuries. Today it’s a common ingredient in many popular energy drinks and is often recommended for those suffering from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Enjoy Brazilian ginseng powder in your choice of smoothies, shakes and protein drinks, or use as an additional ingredient in raw snacks and energy bars.

7) Organic spirulina powder

Organic spirulina powder is made from blue-green, freshwater algae and contains an impressive selection of valuable nutrients. Once supplied to Aztec athletes and warriors in order to boost energy, strength and endurance, spirulina supplies superfood energy in the form of:

• Protein – organic spirulina powder is a complete source of highly digestible protein. It comprises of a staggering 60 percent vegetable protein (more even than red meat), which can be absorbed up to four times faster than animal protein.
• Essential fatty acids – including a high concentration of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and omega 6 fatty acids. In fact the only food that contains more omega 6 fatty acids than spirulina is mother’s milk.
• Vitamins B1 & B2
• Magnesium
• Iron

Organic spirulina powder is an extremely versatile kitchen ingredient that can be readily stirred into water, green juices, liquid meals and a variety of raw food snacks.

Article Source: http://superfoodblog.co.uk/superfood-energy-fuel-for-life/
Photo Source: www.pinterest.com
 

Where does 'energy' come from?

Aminos Are Essential: Lift Longer And Grow Stronger With BCAAs

In addition to being one of the most effective supplements for muscle growth, BCAAs delay fatigue, support strength and mental focus, and even boost fat-loss. Get the details!

The branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs, are the three essential amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. From a chemical structure standpoint, each of these amino acids has a forked outcropping that looks a lot like a branch. That's where they get their name. If they were named for what they do in the body, they would have been called AAAs—for amazing amino acids!

You may have heard that BCAAs help support muscle growth. That's no BS. In fact, a study that I presented at the 2009 Annual Meeting of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that trained lifters taking a BCAA supplement around workouts for 8 weeks gained about twice as much muscle and strength as those taking a whey protein shake without additional BCAAs.

But the benefits of these three simple acids go far beyond mere muscle growth. Let's get deep into the science of an important performance supplement!

Branch Out to Work Out Longer ///

Part of what makes the BCAAs so special is how the body handles them. Typically, when you ingest amino acids—either individually or as a whole protein—they first travel to the liver. Here, the liver either breaks them down to use as fuel or directs them toward building and repairing muscle and other tissues. BCAAs, on the other hand, tend to be spared by the liver and get sent directly to the muscles, so that the muscle can use the BCAAs directly for fuel or to build and repair itself.

This gives BCAAs a two-pronged relevance to athletic training. During workouts, they can act as a fuel source, and when the workout is over, they can help build muscle. These effects explain why instructions on BCAA products usually advocate you take them before, during, and after a workout.

The more intense and the longer your workout, the more BCAAs will be used for fuel. So you can see how taking a dose of BCAAs before workouts can help you sustain your energy during a workout and train with more intensity from start to finish. You may not feel them in the same way as a pre-workout supplement, but first-time users often report that they BCAAs make their workout feel more pleasant and manageable.

Branch Out to Get Bigger and Stronger ///

The BCAAs built their popularity with bodybuilders on the reputation of being able to increase muscle size. But how does this work, exactly?

As you likely know, muscle tissue is made of protein. And protein is made up of amino acids, which are strung together like a pearl necklace. The way that muscle grows is by stringing together amino acids to make more protein. This is known as muscle protein synthesis. Although the three BCAAs are critical components in the "strings" of proteins that make muscle, their role in muscle-building is more than serving as building blocks.

Research has shown that the BCAAs, particularly leucine, increase muscle growth by directly stimulating muscle protein synthesis. Leucine acts like a key that turns on the process that strings the amino acids together to build muscle protein. Additionally, leucine boosts insulin levels. Insulin is an anabolic hormone that further stimulates protein synthesis.

Another way that BCAAs work to enhance muscle growth and strength is by boosting levels of growth hormone (GH). Italian researchers found that athletes taking BCAAs for one month had higher levels of growth hormone after workouts. The higher your GH levels after workouts, the greater the increases in muscle size and strength you can expect.

Yet another hormone that BCAAs influence to promote muscle growth and strength gains is cortisol. Research has shown that athletes taking BCAAs have lower levels of cortisol during exercise. This blunting of cortisol levels is thought to increase muscle growth because cortisol encourages muscle breakdown and interferes with the anabolic hormone testosterone. Numerous studies have confirmed that athletes taking BCAAs have significantly less muscle breakdown after exercise and recover more quickly.

Branch Out to Delay Fatigue ///

Acting as a direct energy source for muscles is not the only way that BCAAs boost your workout intensity. They also work via the brain to delay fatigue.

During exercise, the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) signals to the brain that the body is fatigued. This leads to a reduction in muscle strength and endurance. The amino acid tryptophan is responsible for producing 5-HT in the brain, whereas the BCAAs, namely valine, compete with tryptophan for entry into the brain. Research has shown that taking BCAAs before workouts lowers the amount of tryptophan that gets into the brain and therefore delays fatigue.

This ability of BCAAs to delay fatigue via this brain mechanism also means that BCAA supplements aren't just beneficial for the body, but the brain as well. By reducing levels of exercise-induced 5-HT in the brain, you reduce mental fatigue, which keeps you sharper mentally. This is one reason that endurance athletes and other high-intensity competitors supplement with BCAAs: to keep sharp when they're approaching physical exhaustion. Many people sip on BCAAs throughout the work day for the same reason.

BCAAs have also recently been found to aid in a different type of endurance: life span. Researchers from Milan, Italy discovered that mice supplemented with BCAAs in their drinking water had higher amounts of mitochondria in their muscles, higher activity of the longevity gene, SIRT1, and lived 12 percent longer than those not getting BCAA-enriched water. So supplementing with BCAAs daily can keep you in the race longer in addition to making you stronger.

Branch Out for Fat-Loss ///

The BCAAs are clearly great mass-building supplements, but they also can aid in fat-loss. Researchers have yet to determine precisely how this happens, but they've offered up several theories to explain the startling results they've seen.

One of the first studies to discover this benefit was a 1997 study of competitive wrestlers, which found that those who were supplementing with BCAAs while following a low-calorie diet experienced a greater drop in body fat, particularly in the waist, as compared to those taking a placebo. My study from 2009 also found that the lifters taking BCAAs lost about twice as much body fat as those taking whey protein without added BCAAs.

A study out of Brazil found that leucine supplementation for six weeks caused a large drop in body fat. The researchers proposed that the increase in protein synthesis stimulated by leucine increased energy expenditure so much that it helped to burn off body fat. Leucine has also been found to reduce hunger, causing you to eat less while you burn more, which ultimately leads to fat-loss.

In the most recent study on BCAAs fat-loss effects, Japanese researchers discovered that mice given isoleucine while eating a high-fat diet gained significantly less fat than mice not getting supplemental isoleucine. This was due to isoleucine's ability to activate special receptors, known as PPAR, that increase fat-burning and inhibit fat storage.

BCAA Dosing ///

Each time you take BCAAs you should go with about 5-10 grams. The most critical time to take them is around workouts, so add 5-10 grams to your pre- and post-workout shakes.

If your goal is to build mass, also consider taking a dose of BCAAs first thing upon waking to help stop the muscle breakdown that is turned on during your night of fasting while you sleep. You can also take a 5-10 gram dose of BCAAs at any other time of day to get a mental energy boost, reduce hunger, and aid muscle growth.

Article Source: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/aminos-are-essential-lift-longer-and-grow-

stronger-with-bcaas.html
Photo Source: www.imagarcade.com Are you getting in YOUR aminos?