Author Archives: Robert Barrington

About Robert Barrington

Robert Barrington is a writer, nutritionist, lecturer and philosopher.

Glycine: Effects During Sleep

Glycine is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the spinal cord and inhibits motor neurones. This effect is demonstrated by the blockage of glycine receptors in postsynaptic receptors by strychnine, which causes significant tetany and convulsions from extensive muscle contractions. The … Continue reading

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Plants with Insulin Mimetic Properties

A number of plants have insulin mimetic effects. For example, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum) contains a chemical called 4-hydroxyleucine that may lower blood glucose by stimulating the release of insulin from the β-cells of the pancreas. Aloe vera contains a bitter … Continue reading

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4-Hydroxyisoleucine In Fenugreek

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum) seeds contain the amino acid 4-Hydroxyisoleucine. This amino acid is present in high concentrations in the seeds and may be the reason that the seeds are able to provide benefits to physical performance. The reason for this … Continue reading

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Protective Effects of L-Carnitine on Fertility

L-carnitine is a molecule synthesised in humans and required for energy production. L-carnitine is used by the cells to transport fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane in order to allow oxidation and energy release. Around 25 % of the L-carnitine … Continue reading

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Phytochemicals in Cashew Nuts

Anacardium occidentale (cashew) in an evergreen tree that grows in parts of South America, India and Africa. The tree produces a nut that is dried and sold commercially as a snack and food ingredient. Cashew nuts are used in cuisine … Continue reading

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Nattokinase and Blood Pressure

Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from natto, a form of fermented soybeans. Evidence suggests that nattokinase has a number of health benefits. One of these health benefits might be to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Nattokianse may be able … Continue reading

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Nattokinase for Cardiovascular Disease

Natto is a fermented food product that is made from soybeans. Natto has been produced and consumed in Asian countries for thousands of years, and anecdotal evidence suggests that natto may be one reason for the low rates of cardiovascular … Continue reading

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Jasmine Tea Polysaccharides

Jasmine tea often refers to a scented form of tea (Camellia sinensis) with flowers from the jasmine plant (Jasminum sambac). However, jasmine can be consumed in isolation or taken with other foods, for example being added to salad greens. Jasmine … Continue reading

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The Physiological Effects of Boron

The physiological effects of boron can be evidenced in studies that have investigated the effects of boron deficiencies in humans and animals. For example, in rats, chickens and humans, boron deficiencies have been observed and the symptoms recorded. The main … Continue reading

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Eurycoma longifolia (tongkat ali) for Stress?

Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as tongkat ali, is a plant that grows natively in parts of Malaysia, Vietnam, Sumatra, Thailand and Java. Traditional medicine from these regions uses Eurycoma longifolia for a number of reasons, with one common use being … Continue reading

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