Algae – the New Wonder Food
P
rotein is essential to remain healthy, or
recover from an illness, and this is even
more important as we get older. The older
we become, the more protein our bodies
require per kilogram of body weight. However, there
are potential health issues associated with some of
the more traditional sources of protein. But don’t
worry, good news is here. Or maybe not…
In order to feed the world’s ever increasing population, scientists and food technicians are looking far
and wide for new alternatives to the traditional
sources of protein, and their latest great white hope
(or great green hope) may surprise a few people.
Algae is exciting many people in the industry and it
is being held up as the next big alternative protein
source. It is long been the aim of the Institute of
Food Technologies to come up with ways to reduce
meat consumption and reduce food waste as well as
to provide nutritious food for the whole planet. And
they firmly believe algae is one of the best ways to
help achiev e this.
There are also literally thousands of different strains
so there is always one that is suitable for a particular
need or requirement.
What may be even more surprising is that the
chances are you have already eaten some. Algae
appears as an ingredient in many products on our
shelves today, such as protein shakes, cereals, sauces
and dressings, and even in bread.
One food expert claimed that the population is ready
Algae is easily digested, and is considered better for to not only embrace algae, but to get truly excited
the heart than more traditional sources of protein.
about it. Apparently all we need is a little education
Too much water dangerous to athletes
While the risks of dehydration are
well known, athletes may suffer
from the serious health risks
associated with drinking too many
fluids while exercising.
Overhydrating with water or sports
drinks can lead to a condition called
exercise-associated hyponatremia
(EAH), said Mitchell Rosner, MD, a
kidney specialist at the University
of Virginia School of Medicine The
key to preventing EAH, Rosner
said, is to let your body tell you
when you need a drink.
"We recommend using your thirst as
a guide," he said. "If you drink
when thirsty, you will not become
hyponatremic and you will not
suffer from significant dehydration."
The initial mild symptoms of EAH
can include cloudy thinking, nausea
and headaches, Rosner said. In
severe cases, symptoms include
seizures, severe confusion and
coma. If coaches or parents suspect
an athlete is suffering from EAH,
the most important steps are to stop
them from drinking and call for
medical assistance.
This publication is produced by:
Home Visit Physiotherapy Australia
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