Chia for the New Millennium
A new, patent-pending, neutral-tasting, water-soluble omega-3 microencapsulated powder is available for food applications. Benexia™ ALA Powder, from Proprietary Nutritionals Inc., is derived from oil from the chia plant (Salvia Hispanica L.) and has an ALA:LA ratio of 3-to-1. The health benefits, according to the company, include cardiovascular, brain and immune system, as well as support of a healthy inflammatory response. In comparison to conventional omega-3 sources, the company states, the benefits of Benexia ALA Powder include superior content of omega-3 EFA; oxidative stability; highly soluble; suitable for vegetarians and vegans; no cholesterol or trans fats; no fishy taste, smell or reflux; and does not pose any allergy or safety risks. Proprietary Nutritionals Inc., a subsidiary of Pharmachem Laboratories Inc., 519-647-2071
Got Milk?
A 65-year follow-up study concludes consuming plenty of dairy products at a young age may lower stroke risk and lead to a longer life. Some studies have suggested dairy-rich diets contribute to heart disease, because of high levels of saturated fatty acids and cholesterol. However, research published in the journal Heart and funded by health charities, tracked the lives and dairy intake of 4,374 children between 1948-2005, and found not only that dairy-rich diets in childhood do not contribute to heart problems later, but that higher childhood calcium intake was associated with lower stroke mortality. In addition, children in the group with the highest calcium intake and dairy product consumption were found to have lower mortality rates than those in the lower intake groups (van der Pols, JC, et al. 2009. Childhood dairy and calcium intake and cardiovascular mortality in adulthood: 65-year follow-up of the Boyd Orr cohort. Heart. Published online July 29).