nutrition: the fundamentals

Nutrition is the fundamental cornerstone to human health. Every single reaction, biochemical pathway, and physiological event that takes place in our bodies, requires nutrients at some stage. An elaborate and perfectly organised sequence of vitamins, minerals, fats, and amino acids, allow our bodies to function on a day to day basis. However, when our needs in this area are not met, things can quickly begin to go awry. Therefore, it is essential that we pay serious attention to our daily diet. A diet based around whole foods, fruits vegetables, and the right types of fats can be the greatest health insurance we can have. Nutritional supplementation is a practical tool. It is a sad fact that in today’s modern world, we cannot rely 100% upon the quality and nutrient density of even the best fresh produce, due to intensive farming, depleted soils and environmental factors. Coupled with this, we have far greater physical demands placed upon us, meaning that very often our requirements for specific nutrients are higher than they ever to cope physiologically. Nutritional supplements, when used correctly can be a valuable tool in addressing such issues.

Government surveys have identified the following groups at high risk from low vitamin and mineral intakes: highly active people, menstruating women, vegetarians and vegans, the elderly, slimmers, smokers, drinkers and 'faddy' eaters.

Black seed is rich in nutritional value:

• Monosaccharides (single molecule sugars) in the form of glucose, rhamnose, xylose, and arabinose are found in black seed.

• The black seed contains a non-starch polysaccharide component, a useful source of dietary fiber.

• It is rich in fatty acids, particularly the unsaturated and essential fatty acids (Linoleic and Linoleic acid). Essential fatty acids cannot be manufactured by the body alone, they need to be acquired from food or supplements in order to maintain optimum balance and peak well being.

• Fifteen amino acids make up the protein content of the black seed, including eight of the nine essential amino acids. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized within our body.

• Black seed contains Arginine which is essential for infant growth.

• Chemical analysis further reveals that the black seed contains carotene, which is converted by the liver into vitamin A, the vitamin known for its potent anti-cancer properties.

• The black seed is a great source of calcium, iron, sodium, and potassium. Required only in small amounts by the body, these elements' main function is to act as essential cofactors in various enzyme functions.