Weekendin Singapore Dec '14 | Issue 09 | Page 108

inthePINK Red Delicious Apples Packed With Disease Fighting Antioxidants Apples, and especially apple peels, have been found to have a potent antioxidant activity (scavenges free radicals) that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, with the antioxidant activity of one apple equivalent to about 1500 mg of vitamin C. And recent animal cell culture studies suggest there is an association between polyphenolic compounds found in apples and a wide variety of effects that may help prevent chronic disease. This supports the hypothesis that it is the phytochemicals found in fruits, especially apples that impart healthy benefits. Polyphenols-phytochemicals that act like astringents are major sources of antioxidants in apples, but which polyphenols are most active in the fruit has phytochemicals scientists. Scientists found that polyphenols were five times more prevalent in the skin than the flesh of the apples and that two polypheols, epicatechin and procyanidin B2, were the greatest contributors to total antioxidant activity of the apples. STRONG FOUNDATIONS, SECURE FUTURES The Wonderfish The fact that fish is good for our hearts has long been known. Fatty fishes are rich in omega-3 oil, which studies have shown to be cholesterol lowering. Recent studies have shown that an active lifestyle and a healthy fish-rich diet are not only good for our heart, they may also help tackle memory loss associated with old age. This was what two leading neuroscientists have discovered. As people live longer, finding ways of halting the decline of mental agility is becoming increasingly important, said Professor Ian Robertson, director of the institute of Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin. The biggest threat to being able to function well and properly is our brains, he told journalists at the British association for the advancement of Science meeting in Dublin. Exercise and a healthy diet may slow memory loss. There is very strong evidence, particularly in the over-50s, that the degree to which you maintain your mental faculties depends on a handful of quite simple environmental factors, he said, having identified seven key areas. Those who remained physically fit, avoided high stress levels and enjoyed a rich and varied social life are better equipped to stay alert as they age. Mental stimulation, learning new things, and simply thinking young also help. If Weekendin 106 you start to think of yourself as old when you are 60, you will behave old, he said. This is similar to the concept of thinking positive to maintain good self-image and confidence. Research conducted by another Trinity College researcher, Marina Lynch, showed healthy eating was another key requirement. New research showed fish oils may reduce the cell inflammation that triggers a decline in memory. Studies have identified the antiinflammatory properties as well as the restorative properties of omega-3, she said of the essential fatty acid found in supplements like cod liver oil and fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, and tuna. Already believed to protect the brain against the damage caused by Alzheimer’s disease, omega-3 has also been linked with maintaining healthy hearts and joints. The biggest surprise of the latest discovery was that omega-3 appeared not only aid in replacing anti-inflammatories that dwindle with age but also help stem a corresponding rise in chemicals that cause the cell inflammation in the first place. WORDPLUS TRAINING SERVICES From nursery to secondary school aged children So, opt for a diet rich in fatty fish – it will help to slow the brain’s ageing process and help you maintain your memory, as you age. Give your child a headstart by enrolling him in a Wordplus programme. The Wordplus approach to learning is to begin stimulation and instruction early so as to maximise on your child’s formative years. The methods used have been proven successful with both local and Asian expatriate children. Let your child experience the fun of learning through our selection of courses designed to cater to every stage of your child’s development and growth. All courses include the following features: • • • • • Small classes for closer monitoring Lessons structured to cater to a child’s short attention span Creative approach to training of essential skills Exposure to a wide selection of bo