2012-08-31
Snappers Sea Grill (St. Pete Beach)
I went to the Snappers Sea Grill on St Pete Beach for dinner. It wasn’t a real dinner for me, because I ate too many ginger snap cookies before leaving the house. There weren’t too many vegetable choices on the menu. I only ordered one appetizer…Zucchini Sticks, which are breaded and fried. It came with Tiger dipping sauce, which tasted like Thousand Island dressing to me. Snappers’ seafood dishes are always pretty good, but I have to say these zucchini sticks weren’t my favorite, way too much breading and quite oily :(
2012-08-27
Tsunami Japanese Steakhouse (St. Pete, FL)
This is my second time visiting Tsunami Japanese Steakhouse in St. Pete. The first visit was about a year ago; we ordered some entrees on the menu, which weren't impressive to me at all. A few days ago, we decided to give this place another try. This time, I ordered Udon Noodle from the Appetizers section, which turned out to be a huge bowl of noodles. There were a lot of mushrooms in the soup which I really enjoyed. The taste wasn’t too impressive, but it wasn’t bad either. Instead of ordering entrees this time, we ordered from the sushi menu. I'm not a big fan of raw fish, but it's fun to try something I don't eat often. Actually, the sushi was great and fresh. In general, I would recommend sushi over the entree items at this restaurant. I will definitely go back for dinner sometime J
A huge bowl of Udon noodles (in the Appetizers section of the menu), comes with 2 tempura shrimps.
Master Chirashi (Sashimi tuna, salmon, white fish, octopus, Japanese yellowtail & salmon roe served over sushi rice)
Spicy Tuna Roll & Dragon Roll (came on the same plate) and Rainbow Roll. I enjoyed the Rainbow roll a lot. I went to their website and copy & paste the roll ingredients below.
Dragon Roll: Grilled eel, salmon, crab stick delight, cucumber, asparagus & scallion rolled in seaweed & rice, topped with avocado & tuna, served with eel sauce and spicy mayo.
Rainbow Roll: Grilled eel, cream cheese & cucumber rolled in seaweed & rice, topped with tuna, salmon, whitefish & avocado, served with eel sauce.
2012-08-13
Paradise, Hawaiian Style (Week 2)
We slowed down a little bit during our second week of staying. We went to visit a few must-go places and started catching up with work and taking more time just to relax.
A little farmers' market we drove by near North Shore. We were super excited and stopped our car to check it out. We got a sweet coconut, a pineapple, and some apple bananas. We’ve stayed for about 15 minutes and left. The bad news was, after that, we got stuck in the traffic for about 1 hour :(
We drove by the Sunset Beach on the way back. We stopped there for about 10 minutes and found this fabulous view.
The coconut we got at the farmers' market fit perfectly in the bottle holder of our rental car. It's kinda funny.
Chinese Vegetable Noodle Soup. I was super hungry when I got this noodle soup. I actually burned my tongue trying to eat it. Unfortunately, it wasn’t very good.
We went to Pearl Harbor, which was an absolutely memorable trip. It was very touching to see the all film footages, memorials, and museums of the tragic attack. My eyes were watering when I saw the sunken Arizona, the “tears” of the Arizona, and the names of all the people who lost their lives. It is definitely a trip you have to make if you are visiting Ohua.
USS Missouri
2012-07-11
Keoni by Keo's in (Waikiki, Hawaii) Review
Keoni by Keo's is a Thai Restaurant located on 2375 Kuhio Ave near Waikiki Beach. It's close to several hotels and other stores, which is a very convenient and visible location. It's one the restaurants we visited during the first two weeks of our stay in Honolulu. Every time we walk by, it looks pretty busy and I do like the outdoor seating area. Finally, we decided to give it a try. It looks nice and elegant from outside, but the decor inside was average and casual in my opinion. Serving was a little slow but the food tasted really fresh.
We ordered two dishes, Pad Thai with mixed vegetables and "Evil Jungle Prince" Curry with vegetables and tofu. The portion was average, but we felt really stuffed after. I believe that means the dishes contain a lot of oil and coconut milk :(
Pad Thai with mixed vegetables (around $15).
Came with fresh mixed vegetables (broccoli, red pepper, green pepper and bean sprouts), a few fried tofu and a little bowl of peanuts on the side. The vegetables were really nice and fresh, and I really liked it when the peanuts came in a separate bowl, which kept them a little crunchy. The only problem was the Pad Thai had a very strange flavor, which I had never had before. I didn't really like it, but it wasn't too bad.
"Evil Jungle Prince" Curry with vegetables and tofu (around $15).
On the menu, it says it's their special curry, which you won't find it at other places. If I didn't remember it wrong, we had to order rice separately (maybe $3 a bowl, brown rice). The curry tastes delicious, but I don't like the fact that they charge for rice separately. Usually rice just comes with curry.
2012-06-26
Paradise, Hawaiian Style (Week 1)
I have been in Hawaii for about two weeks now. When I first landed in Honolulu International Airport on June 11, I was amazed by how beautiful it is. Now, about two week later, I still feel like I’m living in a paradise. I have explored several places in Oahu which were absolutely wonderful. I only have my cellphone with me on this trip, all the pictures were taken with it. I should have brought a better camera with me, but I really wanted to travel light.
Landed in Honolulu International Airport on June 11. A quick photo of a beautiful garden at the airport
After unpacking our stuff, we took a short walk on the beach. Peaceful Waikiki beach in the afternoon
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Next day, early in the morning, I was still in the process of adjusting time. Woke up early and took this picture from our hotel balcony. I was amazed by what I saw.
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We went to check out the hotel roof and found this amazing view. I felt truly blessed.
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Went to this coffee shop called "Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf". It's a chain, but I've never had a chance to visit any of them. I ordered this drink, couldn't remember the name. It's super sweet and delicious. How could I resist such sweet drink when I was in Hawaii :)
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2012-03-10
The DASH Diet and Hypertension
DASH stands for Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension. The DASH diet is a low-fat eating plan that is high in vegetables, fruits, and dairy foods with reduced amounts of red meat, sweets, and sugar-containing drinks. The DASH diet is proven to reduce blood pressure. Besides the role in lowering blood pressure, the DASH diet is generally a healthy eating plan which encourages nutrient-dense foods and cuts back on relatively unhealthy ones.
The DASH diet consists of:
Often times, the DASH diet is prescribed along with a low sodium diet. Combining the DASH diet with a low sodium diet works better in reducing blood pressure than adopting either diet alone. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) conducted a study on the DASH diet and released the results in 2001. The study concluded that either following the DASH diet or restricting sodium intake would generate significant health benefits. Moreover, the combination of the two would control blood pressure significantly more in general population. The effects on blood pressure from sodium reduction were particularly great for those with hypertension, African Americans, women, and those over age 45.
The DASH diet is an eating plan, which is rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, fiber, and protein. Numerous studies have revealed the positive effects of the DASH diet on reducing blood pressure. For better results, restrict your dietary sodium intake when you are on the DASH diet eating plan.
The DASH diet consists of:
- 6-8 servings of Grains per day -Whole grains are richer in fiber and nutrients than refined grains.
- 4-5 servings of Vegetables and Fruits per day, respectively - Most vegetables and fruits are high in potassium and magnesium. These two minerals aid in controlling and even lowering blood pressure.
- 2-3 servings of Dairy per day- Peptides derived from milk proteins, especially fermented milk products, have been shown to lower blood pressure.
- 6 or less servings of lean meat, poultry and fish per day – Eat fish which are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon. Cut back on meats which contain a lot of fat and cholesterol.
- 4-5 servings of nuts, seeds and legumes per week - Nuts and seeds are usually high in magnesium, potassium, and sometimes protein in certain types. Still, they are high in calories as well, so they need to be consumed in moderation. Legumes, such as soy products, are good alternatives to meat.
- Limit fats and oils to 2 to 3 servings per day – One serving of fat is about 1 teaspoon of butter or vegetable oil. Limit saturated fat and avoid trans- fat.
- No more than 5 sweets per week - One serving of sweet is about 1 tablespoon of sugar. Use sugar substitutes instead of sugar, but still in moderation.
Often times, the DASH diet is prescribed along with a low sodium diet. Combining the DASH diet with a low sodium diet works better in reducing blood pressure than adopting either diet alone. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) conducted a study on the DASH diet and released the results in 2001. The study concluded that either following the DASH diet or restricting sodium intake would generate significant health benefits. Moreover, the combination of the two would control blood pressure significantly more in general population. The effects on blood pressure from sodium reduction were particularly great for those with hypertension, African Americans, women, and those over age 45.
The DASH diet is an eating plan, which is rich in potassium, calcium, magnesium, fiber, and protein. Numerous studies have revealed the positive effects of the DASH diet on reducing blood pressure. For better results, restrict your dietary sodium intake when you are on the DASH diet eating plan.
References:
1. Mahan, L. Kathleen, and Escott-Stump, Sylvia. (2008). Krause’s Food & Nutrition Therapy. 12th ed. St. Lois, MO: Saunders-Elsevier.
2. Mayo Clinic. (2010). DASH diet: Healthy eating to lower your blood pressure. . Retrieved Jan. 25, 2012, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dash-diet/HI00047
3. National Institute of Health. (2001). NHLBI Study Finds DASH Diet And Reduced Sodium Lowers Blood Pressure For All. Retrieved Jan. 25, 2012, from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/new/press/01-12-17.htm
2. Mayo Clinic. (2010). DASH diet: Healthy eating to lower your blood pressure. . Retrieved Jan. 25, 2012, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dash-diet/HI00047
3. National Institute of Health. (2001). NHLBI Study Finds DASH Diet And Reduced Sodium Lowers Blood Pressure For All. Retrieved Jan. 25, 2012, from http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/new/press/01-12-17.htm
2012-03-05
Cuisinart Stir Fry, Chef's Classic Stainless 14" Covered - Review
I got this wok from Macy's about 1 month ago. It's a new addition to my cookware cabinet. So far, I like it a lot. I'm able to cook different sorts of stir fries, soups, fried rice, and some other random dishes. I have beening using it on medium/low heat according to the instruction. I have been trying to find a nice wok which is not too expensive since they can get pricey sometimes. I found this one when it was on sale for about 35 bucks (reguarly $80). I'm still excited I grabbed this at such a good price.
So here are some Pros and Cons....
Pros:
1. Heats up quickly (According to Macy's description, it has an "Aluminum-encapsulated base". It heats up fairly fast, the main problem for me is that only the bottom part seems to heat up well, the wall of the wok remains at a lower temperature for a long time)
2. Looks and feels very sturdy (well made)
3. Comes with a glass lid (It's great for cooking soups and some other food when you need to cover it)
4. Easy to clean after using (I just use a sponge and wipe off the wok, and it's easier to clean it if you soak the bottom the wok in water for a while, maybe 5-10 minutes)
5. It's safe in freezer and oven, but I haven't tried it yet.
Cons:
1. Stains easily (after a few uses, you can see stains everywhere inside the wok, it might be water stain or food remaining; but it's made for cooking, so the stains don't bother me too much)
2. Food sticks easily on the bottom while cooking, especially eggs and cooked rice (It causes some food waste because a portion of food sticks on the bottom and, often times, burned. Cooking spray doesn't solve the problem. However, it's pretty easy to clean up after using)
3. Both the wok and the glass lid are very heavy (it's actually can be bad or good, heaviness=sturdiness I guess)
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| Pitcure borrowed from cuisinartwebstore.com |
Pros:
1. Heats up quickly (According to Macy's description, it has an "Aluminum-encapsulated base". It heats up fairly fast, the main problem for me is that only the bottom part seems to heat up well, the wall of the wok remains at a lower temperature for a long time)
2. Looks and feels very sturdy (well made)
3. Comes with a glass lid (It's great for cooking soups and some other food when you need to cover it)
4. Easy to clean after using (I just use a sponge and wipe off the wok, and it's easier to clean it if you soak the bottom the wok in water for a while, maybe 5-10 minutes)
5. It's safe in freezer and oven, but I haven't tried it yet.
Cons:
1. Stains easily (after a few uses, you can see stains everywhere inside the wok, it might be water stain or food remaining; but it's made for cooking, so the stains don't bother me too much)
2. Food sticks easily on the bottom while cooking, especially eggs and cooked rice (It causes some food waste because a portion of food sticks on the bottom and, often times, burned. Cooking spray doesn't solve the problem. However, it's pretty easy to clean up after using)
3. Both the wok and the glass lid are very heavy (it's actually can be bad or good, heaviness=sturdiness I guess)
2012-02-02
Super Bowl Foods and Snacks – a Healthy Version
One of the biggest events happens the first weekend of February, it’s the Super Bowl!!! The big game is getting very close-we are days away. Are you ready for it? No matter if you are going to watch the game with family or having a Super Bowl party with friends; be sure to eat some healthy filling foods and snacks while watching the exciting game. Here are a few ideas:
1. Pizza with a twist - If you can’t resist having pizza when you watch the big game, then get a healthy version to splurge on. You can choose whole wheat crust over regular white flour, low-fat cheese over regular cheese. Also you can have less cheese, more sauce and add all sorts of vegetables. There are many good choices to give you a better pizza than pepperoni or sausages. Onions, mushrooms, green and red peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach and many other vegetables. Load up your pizza with these great toppings without feeling guilty.
2. Wraps, cold or warm - If you like cold wraps, try whole wheat tortilla shells filled with grilled chicken/fish and fresh vegetables. If you like warm wraps, substitute raw vegetables with grilled/oven roasted ones. These tasty wraps should fill you up very well when you are concentrating on the game. Avoid processed meats and go easy on the cheese and dressing.
3. Tortilla chips and Salsa - Toss away your potato chips and pair up tortilla chips with tangy spicy salsa. This will give you a fantastic taste and nutrients you need. Add tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, avocado, corn, beans, cilantro and even mango and pineapple. Don’t these ingredients make your mouth water? Not to mention the variety of vegetables and fruits you have at one time makes this a great combination.
4. Nachos and Vegetarian Chili - Tortilla chips can also be paired up with vegetarian chili to make a healthy nacho dish. Sprinkle some shredded low-fat cheese to make it taste even better.
5. Veggies and Greek Yogurt Dip – Celery sticks, carrots, cucumbers, broccoli and cherry tomatoes are good to make a snack for the game. Substitute sour cream with Greek Yogurt (low-fat or regular). Greek yogurt has a thick and creamy texture, which will be able to provide a similar mouth feel to sour cream. It also has less saturated fat and calories. Combine Greek yogurt with chopped onions, garlic powder, dill weed, parsley flakes and a pinch of salt and pepper. Now you have a yummy creamy dip without killing your heart and adding unwanted weight.
6. Pita chips and Hummus - Hummus is made with chickpeas, which is a protein-rich legume. Also, you can add black beans, onions, red peppers or other ingredients. Another bonus point, the combination of pita bread and hummus provide complementary proteins, which is a great choice for vegetarians and vegans.
While you are getting mentally prepared for the exciting Super Bowl game, don’t forget your belly as well. Get your foods and snacks ready before the game, and enjoy them with passion and excitement.
2012-01-18
NYC Trip - Before Christmas
I took a trip to NYC with my family before Christmas...We had a great time there, but I didn't take too many photos..I'm looking forward to having another trip sometime in the future.
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| Brooklyn Bridge |
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| Central Park |
2012-01-15
Vitamin C - Myths and Facts (Part 3)
HOW MUCH VITAMIN C DO YOU NEED?
The amount of vitamin C you need depends on your age, gender and other factors, such as smoking pregnancy. Below is the Dietary Reference Intakes for vitamin C:
Smokers or those who are around secondhand smoke at any age need an additional 35 mg per day. For most people, a healthy and balanced diet should provide an adequate amount of vitamin C you need, so there is no need to take excessive vitamin C supplements.
The amount of vitamin C you need depends on your age, gender and other factors, such as smoking pregnancy. Below is the Dietary Reference Intakes for vitamin C:
Infants
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•0 - 6 months: 40* mg/day
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•7 - 12 months: 50* mg/day
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*Adequate Intake (AI)
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Children
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•1 - 3 years: 15 mg/day
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•4 - 8 years: 25 mg/day
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•9 - 13 years: 45 mg/day
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Adolescents
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•Girls 14 - 18 years: 65 mg/day
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•Boys 14 - 18 years: 75 mg/day
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Adults
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•Women age 19 year and older: 75 mg/day
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•Men age 19 and older: 90 mg/day
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Pregnant Women
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•14 - 18 years: 80 mg
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• Over 18 years: 85 mg
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Breastfeeding Women
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•14 - 18 years: 115 mg
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•Over 18 years: 120 mg
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Smokers or those who are around secondhand smoke at any age need an additional 35 mg per day. For most people, a healthy and balanced diet should provide an adequate amount of vitamin C you need, so there is no need to take excessive vitamin C supplements.
References:
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-QuickFacts/
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1001.html
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002404.htm
- http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FY/FY21500.pdf
- http://www.aoa.org/x11814.xml
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminc
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002145.htm
- http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/vitamin-c-000339.htm
- http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminC/index.html
2012-01-12
Vitamin C - Myths and Facts (Part 2)
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN C ON HEALTH?
Vitamin C has been claimed to have a lot of functions, some of them have been proved by scientific studies, but some of them are still questionable. Here are some commonly claimed effects of vitamin c on human’s health.
The Common Cold
Although vitamin C has long been believed to cure the common cold, research shows that for most people, vitamin C supplements do not reduce the risk of getting the common cold or cure the cold after getting it. However, people who take vitamin C supplements regularly might have slightly shorter colds (about 1 day shorter in duration) or slightly milder symptoms. Using vitamin C supplements after cold symptoms start does not appear to be helpful.
Antioxidant
In the body, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. It helps to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals, which are formed when your body breaks down food for energy. People are also exposed to free radicals in the environment from cigarette / tobacco smoke, air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun and radiation. The buildup of free radicals can cause aging and may possibly cause cancer and heart disease.
Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Many population based studies suggest that people with regularly high intakes of vitamin C-rich foods might have a lower risk of getting cancer, such as skin cancer, cervical dysplasia, lung cancer, colon cancer or breast cancer. On the other hand, the foods rich in vitamin C also contain many other beneficial nutrients, so it is difficult to determine the role of vitamin C in preventing cancer. Moreover, vitamin C supplements do not seem to have any effect on preventing cancer.
In addition, it is not clear that taking large doses of vitamin C will cure cancer or help cancer treatment. Also, some doctors are concerned that large doses of dietary vitamin C supplements may interfere with the chemotherapy medications and radiation therapy for cancer.
Cardiovascular Disease
People who eat lots of fruits and vegetables seem to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it is still unknown that whether vitamin C is the one that helps prevent cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack or stroke. Vitamin C itself doesn’t lower cholesterol levels or reduce the overall risk of cardiovascular disease, but it may help protect arteries against oxidative damage. Some studies suggest that vitamin C may prevent the progression of hardening of the arteries and the build-up of plaque, which can cause heart attack. Even though the relationship between vitamin C and cardiovascular disease is not very clear, studies suggest that people with low levels of vitamin C may be more prone to have a heart attack, stroke or peripheral artery disease. Still, there is no evidence to prove that taking vitamin C supplements will help or cure these conditions.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Cataracts
AMD and cataracts are two of the leading causes of vision loss in older people. Some researchers do not believe that vitamin C affect the risk of getting AMD. However, research suggests that vitamin C combined with other nutrients might help keep early AMD from worsening into advanced AMD. Some other researchers believe that a combination of vitamin C, zinc, beta-carotene and vitamin E may benefit people who have advanced AMD.
Taking vitamin C higher than 300 mg/day for a number of years may have a protective effect on cataracts. However, a 7-year controlled intervention trial demonstrates that there is no relationship between vitamin C intake and cataracts prevention or progression. Like other claimed health benefits, more research is needed to clarify the relationship between vitamin C and AMD/cataracts.
Collagen Synthesis
Collagen is an important protein and structural component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Our body requires vitamin C to make collagen. It is also needed to help wounds heal and sometimes used in anti-aging products.
Other Benefits
Vitamin C helps our bodies absorb iron from plant-based foods and helps the immune system work properly to protect the body from disease. Some studies also suggest that taking vitamin C along with vitamin E may help prevent pre-eclampsia (a common cause of premature births) in women who are at high risk. Vitamin C may also reduce effects of sun exposure, such as sunburn or redness.
Vitamin C has been claimed to have a lot of functions, some of them have been proved by scientific studies, but some of them are still questionable. Here are some commonly claimed effects of vitamin c on human’s health.
The Common Cold
Although vitamin C has long been believed to cure the common cold, research shows that for most people, vitamin C supplements do not reduce the risk of getting the common cold or cure the cold after getting it. However, people who take vitamin C supplements regularly might have slightly shorter colds (about 1 day shorter in duration) or slightly milder symptoms. Using vitamin C supplements after cold symptoms start does not appear to be helpful.
Antioxidant
In the body, vitamin C acts as an antioxidant. It helps to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals, which are formed when your body breaks down food for energy. People are also exposed to free radicals in the environment from cigarette / tobacco smoke, air pollution, ultraviolet light from the sun and radiation. The buildup of free radicals can cause aging and may possibly cause cancer and heart disease.
Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Many population based studies suggest that people with regularly high intakes of vitamin C-rich foods might have a lower risk of getting cancer, such as skin cancer, cervical dysplasia, lung cancer, colon cancer or breast cancer. On the other hand, the foods rich in vitamin C also contain many other beneficial nutrients, so it is difficult to determine the role of vitamin C in preventing cancer. Moreover, vitamin C supplements do not seem to have any effect on preventing cancer.
In addition, it is not clear that taking large doses of vitamin C will cure cancer or help cancer treatment. Also, some doctors are concerned that large doses of dietary vitamin C supplements may interfere with the chemotherapy medications and radiation therapy for cancer.
Cardiovascular Disease
People who eat lots of fruits and vegetables seem to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it is still unknown that whether vitamin C is the one that helps prevent cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack or stroke. Vitamin C itself doesn’t lower cholesterol levels or reduce the overall risk of cardiovascular disease, but it may help protect arteries against oxidative damage. Some studies suggest that vitamin C may prevent the progression of hardening of the arteries and the build-up of plaque, which can cause heart attack. Even though the relationship between vitamin C and cardiovascular disease is not very clear, studies suggest that people with low levels of vitamin C may be more prone to have a heart attack, stroke or peripheral artery disease. Still, there is no evidence to prove that taking vitamin C supplements will help or cure these conditions.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and Cataracts
AMD and cataracts are two of the leading causes of vision loss in older people. Some researchers do not believe that vitamin C affect the risk of getting AMD. However, research suggests that vitamin C combined with other nutrients might help keep early AMD from worsening into advanced AMD. Some other researchers believe that a combination of vitamin C, zinc, beta-carotene and vitamin E may benefit people who have advanced AMD.
Taking vitamin C higher than 300 mg/day for a number of years may have a protective effect on cataracts. However, a 7-year controlled intervention trial demonstrates that there is no relationship between vitamin C intake and cataracts prevention or progression. Like other claimed health benefits, more research is needed to clarify the relationship between vitamin C and AMD/cataracts.
Collagen Synthesis
Collagen is an important protein and structural component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Our body requires vitamin C to make collagen. It is also needed to help wounds heal and sometimes used in anti-aging products.
Other Benefits
Vitamin C helps our bodies absorb iron from plant-based foods and helps the immune system work properly to protect the body from disease. Some studies also suggest that taking vitamin C along with vitamin E may help prevent pre-eclampsia (a common cause of premature births) in women who are at high risk. Vitamin C may also reduce effects of sun exposure, such as sunburn or redness.
References:
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-QuickFacts/
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1001.html
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002404.htm
- http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FY/FY21500.pdf
- http://www.aoa.org/x11814.xml
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminc
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002145.htm
- http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/vitamin-c-000339.htm
- http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminC/index.html
2012-01-11
Vitamin C - Myths and Facts (Part 1)
WHAT IS VITAMIN C?
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient. Some animals can make their own vitamin C in their bodies, but human beings have to get this nutrient from food and other sources. Vitamin C is a necessary nutrient for normal growth and development. Your body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamin C depending on your age, gender and other factors. The excessive portion which can’t be absorbed will leave the body with urine.
HOW CAN YOU GET VITAMIN C?
You can get vitamin C through various sources, such as natural foods and dietary supplements. However, you need to remember that getting vitamin C through natural foods is much better than taking supplements. Among all the foods, fruits and vegetables are the best choices.
The following is a list of foods which are rich in vitamin C:
Dietary supplements typically contain vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid, but there are other different forms of the vitamin C supplements available, such as sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and other mineral ascorbates.
The vitamin C content of food may be reduced by prolonged storage and cooking. Since vitamin C is water-soluble, cooking food in water, such as boiling, may lead to vitamin C losses as well. Steaming or microwaving may be better ways to retain vitamin C in food. Fortunately, many fruits and vegetables are usually eaten raw, which allows people to get a good amount of vitamin C out of them.
Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble nutrient. Some animals can make their own vitamin C in their bodies, but human beings have to get this nutrient from food and other sources. Vitamin C is a necessary nutrient for normal growth and development. Your body can only absorb a certain amount of vitamin C depending on your age, gender and other factors. The excessive portion which can’t be absorbed will leave the body with urine.
HOW CAN YOU GET VITAMIN C?
You can get vitamin C through various sources, such as natural foods and dietary supplements. However, you need to remember that getting vitamin C through natural foods is much better than taking supplements. Among all the foods, fruits and vegetables are the best choices.
The following is a list of foods which are rich in vitamin C:
- Citrus fruits and their juices, such as orange, lemon, grapefruit and lime.
- Other fruits, such as kiwifruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, strawberry, cantaloupe and watermelon.
- Vegetables, such as red pepper, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, baked potato, tomato and spinach.
- Other than naturally occurring vitamin C, some foods and beverages are fortified with vitamin C, such as certain cereals. You can find that information on the product labels.
Dietary supplements typically contain vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid, but there are other different forms of the vitamin C supplements available, such as sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate, and other mineral ascorbates.
The vitamin C content of food may be reduced by prolonged storage and cooking. Since vitamin C is water-soluble, cooking food in water, such as boiling, may lead to vitamin C losses as well. Steaming or microwaving may be better ways to retain vitamin C in food. Fortunately, many fruits and vegetables are usually eaten raw, which allows people to get a good amount of vitamin C out of them.
References:
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminC-QuickFacts/
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/1001.html
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002404.htm
- http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/FY/FY21500.pdf
- http://www.aoa.org/x11814.xml
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/vitaminc
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002145.htm
- http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/vitamin-c-000339.htm
- http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminC/index.html
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