FoodSmarto

Do you know that the intestinal absorption of celiprolol (beta-blocker) is inhibited when it is taken with orange juice. Hesperidin, present in orange juice, is responsible for the decreased absorption of celiprolol. #fooddruginteraction #foodsmarto Reference : Bushra R, Aslam N, Khan AY. Food-drug interactions. Oman medical journal. 2011 Mar;26(2):77.

Phthalates, commonly found in plastics and personal care products, are known endocrine disruptors with significant implications for reproductive health. A latest research explored the association between phthalate exposure and infertility among 325 women in Jordan—marking the first study of its kind in the region( See Reference Below) 🔍 Key Findings: * They detected elevated levels of DEHP metabolites (MEOHP and MEHHP) in urine samples, with significant correlations to infertility. * Their results highlight common practices, such as heating plastic in microwaves and using specific personal care products, that increase phthalate exposure. 💡 Where Are Phthalates Found? Phthalates are pervasive and can be found in many products, including: * Food and Drink Packaging * Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Nail polish, hairspray, perfume, soap, shampoo, skin moisturizers, and deodorants. * Pharmaceuticals * Cleaning Products * Detergents * Adhesives * Lubricants 🚨 Why This Matters: This study underscores a critical public health issue: widespread DEHP exposure in a community largely unaware of its sources and effects. With no current regulation limits in place, our findings stress the urgent need for public health interventions to mitigate phthalate exposure risks. 📚 Reference: "Screening for phthalates biomarkers and its potential role in infertility outcomes in Jordan" by Nour Abdo, Hana Al-Khalaileh, Marwan Alajlouni, Jehan Hamadneh & Abdalmajeed M. Alajlouni, Journal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology, volume 33, pages 273–282 (2023). #PublicHealth #ReproductiveHealth #Phthalates #Infertility

In regions like Gujarat and the Malwa region of India, Dhana Dal has been a beloved mouth freshener for generations. Dhana dal are roasted coriander seeds. They offer a refreshing way to cleanse the palate after meals. Indian journals have reported that Dhana Dal aids digestion, reduces bad breath, and is rich in antioxidants. #DhanaDal #MouthFreshener

Have you heard of tagatose? This rare natural carbohydrate is gaining attention as a healthier alternative to traditional sugar. As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for natural and low-calorie sweeteners has skyrocketed. Tagatose, with its unique properties, is stepping into the spotlight. Its ability to mimic the taste and texture of sugar while offering health benefits makes it a promising ingredient for the future of food and beverages. What is Tagatose? Tagatose is a naturally occurring sugar with about 92% of the sweetness of sucrose (table sugar) but only 38% of the calories. Each gram of tagatose provides about 1.5 calories. It occurs naturally in many foods such as apple, oranges, pineapple etc. Interestingly, it is often formed when milk is heated, adding to its presence in various dairy-based foods. There is some evidence that mild gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, diarrhoea and flatulence may occur in some individuals at doses of 25 g/day and above. #sugarsubstitutes #tagatose References: Espinosa I, Fogelfeld L. Tagatose: from a sweetener to a new diabetic medication?. Expert opinion on investigational drugs. 2010 Feb 1;19(2):285-94. Guerrero-Wyss M, Durán Agüero S, Angarita Dávila L. D‐Tagatose is a promising sweetener to control glycaemia: A new functional food. BioMed Research International. 2018;2018(1):8718053.

Acidity regulators are used to a control the acidity or alkalinity on a specific level important for processing, taste and food safety. Inadequate control of the pH can result in the growth of microbes in the product. Thus they also play a role in preventing food spoilage. #foodadditives #foodsafety

Recent reports have raised concerns about the presence of heavy metals such as lead and cadmium in dark chocolate. These metals, known for their neurotoxic effects, are linked to serious health issues like cancer, chronic diseases, and developmental problems, especially in children. Why Are Heavy Metals in Dark Chocolate? * Natural Presence in Soil: Heavy metals are naturally found in the Earth’s crust. Cocoa plants can absorb these metals from the soil. * Environmental Pollution: Industrial pollution and the use of metal-containing fertilizers contribute to higher levels of heavy metals in some agricultural regions. * Organic Chocolate: Surprisingly, organic dark chocolates sometimes have higher levels of heavy metals despite being grown with fewer pesticides and contaminants. Health Implications * Lead and Cadmium: These metals can be harmful, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and pregnant women. Cadmium exposure over time can damage kidneys and is considered a probable carcinogen. * Regulatory Standards: While federal regulations set limits on these metals, California’s Proposition 65 has even stricter standards to protect consumers. Recommendations 1. Moderation: Healthy adults can continue to enjoy dark chocolate in moderation. A typical serving size is 1 ounce. 2. Vulnerable Populations: Pregnant women, young children, and individuals with existing health conditions should be cautious and consider limiting their intake. 3. Awareness: Stay informed about potential sources of lead exposure in your environment, such as old paint and contaminated water, to manage overall risk. For those who love dark chocolate, it’s reassuring to know that occasional consumption is considered low risk. However, staying informed and making conscious choices can help protect your health and well-being. #darkchocolate #foodsafety #researchinsights

It has been found that grapefruit and grapefruit juice may slightly delay the absorption of levothyroxine. Please note that it seems to have only a minor effect on its bioavailability though. Many experts recommend separating your levothyroxine dose and grapefruit intake by four hours. #fooddruginteractions #foodsmarto

The Story Behind the Discovery of Umami! Today, let's dive into the fascinating story behind the discovery of Umami taste, which was only recognized as the fifth basic taste. The tale begins in 1907 with a curious Japanese chemist, Dr. Kikunae Ikeda, who found himself captivated by the mouthwatering depth of flavor in a simple bowl of dashi—a traditional Japanese broth made from kombu seaweed. This wasn’t just salty, sweet, sour, or bitter; it was something entirely different, something... umami. Driven by a relentless desire to uncover this new taste sensation, Dr. Ikeda embarked on a scientific quest. His groundbreaking research revealed that the secret lay in glutamic acid, a naturally occurring amino acid. He named this new taste "umami," borrowing from the Japanese word "umai," meaning delicious or savory. By1908, he isolated crystals that conveyed the taste he had detected. These crystals were made of glutamate. Since its discovery, umami has become a global culinary treasure, adding layers of flavor to everything from the richest of cheeses to the most flavorful of broths. It's a taste that transcends borders, enhancing dishes and delighting palates worldwide. In 2000, students at university of Miami discovered umami receptors on human tongue, and in 2006 umami receptors were discovered in stomach. Dr. Ikeda’s discovery is a testament to the power of curiosity and the incredible things we can uncover when we dare to question the ordinary. #Foodstory #umami #japan

In an unusual and rather shocking incident from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, a woman filed from divorce from her husband over a forgotten packet of Kurkure! Yes, you read that right—this popular spicy snack became the final straw in a relationship already strained by her intense snacking habits. While the story might sound amusing, it highlights a serious issue: the growing addiction to packaged snacks. These crunchy treats, loaded with salt and other unhealthy ingredients, aren't just bad for our health—they can also lead to real-life consequences. This incident isn’t just about a missing snack; it's a reminder that our dietary choices can have unexpected impacts on our relationships and overall well-being. It's time to rethink our snack habits and consider healthier alternatives before it's too late! #foodaddiction #foodhabits Source: The Hindustan Times

On July 2, 2024, the U.S. FDA made a significant decision to revoke the use of brominated vegetable oil (BVO) in food products, effective August 2. But what exactly is BVO, and why is it a concern? 🤔 BVO is a chemical additive containing bromine, an element also found in fire retardants. It has been used in small quantities in some citrus-flavored drinks to keep flavors evenly distributed. However, studies conducted by the FDA in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health have highlighted serious health risks, leading to this ban. Why is BVO harmful? BVO has been linked to adverse health effects, including organ damage, neurological issues, and even increased risk of cancer. Its toxic properties led to its ban in several countries years ago – including the UK in 1970, India in 1990, the EU in 2008, and Japan in 2010. India took proactive steps by banning BVO back in 1990, recognizing the potential risks long before many other nations. This recent move by the FDA aligns the U.S. with other regions that have prioritized consumer safety. #foodsafety #foodadditives