Pine bark extract improves kidney function

A new study has revealed that Pycnogenol, an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, improves kidney function in patients with metabolic syndrome.In patients with metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure and blood glucose gradually impair kidney function, which in turn affects the organ`s ability to filter waste from the body."The results of this study demonstrate Pycnogenol`s ability not only to control hypertension, but also to restore kidney function in those impacted by metabolic syndrome. Surprisingly, people taking Pycnogenol not only demonstrated lower blood glucose levels, but also significant weight loss during the six months, yielding optimistic results for managing this condition," said Dr. Peter Rohdewald, a lead researcher of the study.The controlled study carried out at the Nephrology Unit at the L`Aquila Hospital in Italy investigated 58 hypertensive patients who presented all of the criteria for diagnosis of metabolic syndrome, as defined by the World Health Organization: hypertension, high blood lipids, high fasting blood glucose and obesity. Furthermore, all patients showed early signs of kidney problems as judged by elevated amounts of proteins (albumin) present in their urine.Patients were divided into two groups and instructed to follow a healthier lifestyle with dietary improvements, moderate exercise and effective management of health risk factors. Argyle Knit UGG Boots Both groups were treated with anti-hypertensive medication Ramipril, taking a standard dosage of 5 mg twice a day, with one group of 31 patients taking Pycnogenol in addition to the medication.In the group taking Pycnogenol, 50 mg Pycnogenol tablets were taken three times a day, a total dosage of 150 mg of Pycnogenol per day. Urine was collected during a 24-hour period for quantification of the protein albumin in the urine at baseline and again after six months of treatment. Fasting blood was drawn for standard blood analysis. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate were monitored in the morning."The number of people affected by metabolic syndrome is ever increasing and kidney disease is a growing concern. Pycnogenol cannot compensate for an unhealthy lifestyle, but certainly offers some urgently needed help. Our study suggests that essentially all major characteristics of metabolic syndrome are improved with Pycnogenol as part of a healthier lifestyle," said Rohdewald.A study has been published in the issue of Panminerva Medica .

Foods of Winter Season

High protein, adequate fat, less carbohydrate.
More solids- delayed digestible for sustained release of calories.
Less fluids other than water, least semi-solids.
Food capable of producing warm effect. UGG Classic Mini 5854More non-vegetarian food. During summer, as the day time is longer, stomach should not be empty, therefore, three or four helping of semi-solids/fluids/fruits is very helpful. During winter, as the night time is longer, stomach should be kept full in night with such solids which are easily digestible and of high caloric value. As per Ayurveda, during night and early morning(pre-dawn) vat is high, and during day pit is increased and from evening to early night cough rises. Therefore, in the morning vatic food, in the day pittaj food and in the evening kaphaj food should be avoided. Water should be consumed at room temperature during summer and rainy seasons. During winter, water should preferably be kept at luke warm temperature all the time. Whatever the season, hot beverages having caffein should be avoided in the evening.