Certain foods can stave off chronic diseases

Certain foods could give you extra protection against chronic diseases.Researchers from the University of Guelph led by Brian McBride, have found a way to enrich milk with DHA (docosahexaeonic acid), an essential nutrient that many people are lacking.

Certain foods could give you extra protection against chronic diseases.Researchers from the University of Guelph led by Brian McBride, have found a way to enrich milk with DHA (docosahexaeonic acid), an essential nutrient that many people are lacking. A University of Manitoba team led by Rotimi Aluko discovered that certain protein fragments from yellow field pea seeds can lower blood pressure, according to a statement of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Men who are deficient in vitamin D were twice as likely to have a heart attack as men who had adequate levels of the vitamin, according to past studies. Scientists have found evidence that vitamin D plays a role in controlling blood pressure and preventing artery damage, vital for heart health. It is found in fish, milk, egg yolk, liver, cheese and is also synthesised by exposure to sunlight.

Vitamin B complex can also reduce the severity of the asthma attacks. Vitamin A and E when taken together can work to protect your lungs against air pollution.Gingko Biloba is effective as well, as it will enhance your breathing and help with your bronchial reactions. Garlic is another great choice, as it contains an anti-inflammatory agent that will reduce your chances of an asthma attack.

Rickey Yada, professor of food science at Guelph who studies the quality of potato chips and french fries, said: "Many researchers end up looking outside the country for partners to develop their ideas - which means R&D opportunities, economic growth and good jobs in food processing go to other places too." Yada says a number of challenges is slowing down innovation in the food industry. They include a shortage of proof-of-concept funding; and lack of market intelligence, industrial partners, and a taxing approval and regulatory environment. These findings were presented at the meeting of the AAAS in Vancouver, Canada.