© Dr. Alessandro Loiola
http://br.groups.yahoo.com/group/saudeparatodos/
Nestes tempos de violência gratuita e justiça cega, o instinto natural de proteção da cria vem ganhando contornos dramáticos. Não é raro encontrar pais que tentam vigiar seus filhos armando os pimpolhos de telefones celulares, pagers e localizadores GPS.
Eu acredito até que se o pessoal do telescópio Hubble vendesse um serviço de localização permanente de crianças com imagens on-line em tempo real, ia ter uma fila de pais e mães angustiados querendo fazer uma assinatura. O que antes era um mero comportamento de elites, virou uma pandemia, e os Pais Superprotetores se espalharam pelo mundo feito um vídeo qualquer do YouTube.
É natural querer proteger seus filhos, mas interferir constantemente para amaciar o mundo para a criança é uma forma garantida de diminuir a sua autoconfiança. Um pai superprotetor está enviando a seguinte mensagem para seu filho: “Tenha medo, muito medo!, de qualquer coisa ou situações nova, porque você é incapaz de resolver as coisas por si só”.
Em crianças mais velhas, o fato de ter um pai ou uma mãe superprotetores não é compreendido como uma demonstração de amor e preocupação. Elas entendem isso como uma falta de confiança na sua própria capacidade – e este ‘rótulo’ pode ter sérias conseqüências na idade adulta.
Você pode ser considerado superprotetor(a) quando:
- Acredita que qualquer tipo de atividade física pode machucar seriamente seu filho (até mesmo atravessar uma rua tranqüila).
- Em situações do dia-a-dia (p.ex.: uma excursão supervisionada da escola) fica mais ansioso que seu filho, com medo de que algo dê errado ou de que a criança vá ser seqüestrada.
- Gruda no seu filho durante qualquer brincadeira, dando orientações para que ele não se machuque.
- Não permite que a criança se envolva em atividades que possuam até mesmo um risco mínimo de acidentes (p.ex.: brincar de pique esconde).
Se você acredita que está sendo um pai ou mãe superprotetor, não se aflija nem corra para o consultório psiquiátrico mais próximo. Antes, tente implementar algumas dicas simples para lidar com o problema:
- Primeiro passo: confirme sua suspeita. Pergunte a alguns amigos ou parentes se eles acham você superprotetor. Se a resposta for positiva, não vá discutir tentando convencer o contrário.
- Segundo passo: OUÇA seu filho. Converse com ele. Explique que toda sua preocupação vem do amor que você sente por ele, e que você confia na capacidade dele para vencer certos desafios. Mostre os perigos envolvidos em determinadas atividades e entre em um acordo sobre o que deve ser feito se algo der errado.
- Proibir seu filho de fazer uma certa atividade é um direito seu. Não menospreze o peso da sua experiência. É óbvio que a capacidade de julgamento dos pais é superior a dos filhos, e o que é seguro para uma criança, pode não ser para outra. Desde que você explique isso para seu filho – e sem exageros -, não haverá problema.
- Tudo bem, supervisionar seu filho é o melhor remédio para mantê-lo a salvo. Concordo com isso. Mas saiba que mantê-lo sob sua vigilância 100% do tempo também é a receita para produzir um adulto inseguro. Use sua inteligência para encontrar o equilíbrio.
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Dr. Alessandro Loiola é médico, palestrante e escritor, autor de PARA ALÉM DA JUVENTUDE – GUIA PARA UMA MATURIDADE SAUDÁVEL (Ed. Leitura, 496 pág.) e VIDA E SAÚDE DA CRIANÇA (Ed. Natureza, 430 pág.). Atualmente reside e clinica em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, onde apresenta o quadro BEM VIVER na TV Alterosa / SBT.
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4 comentários:
Olá dr. Alessandro, lendo sua pag, referente a pais super protetores, achei o máximo esta leitura/alerta, e creio que será de grande valia para nós pais, que erramos em educar nossos filhos os super-protengendo-os e alimentando-os uma insegurança atual e futura para os mesmos...
Randomized Controlled Study Confirms MonaVie Active(TM) Acai Juice has High Antioxidant Capacity
2007-10-09 - MonaVie
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Results To Be Presented At Fruits and Vegetables Health 2007 Conference
PUYALLUP, WA, October 9, 2007 - The results of recent research surrounding MonaVie Active(TM), a juice containing acai berries and pulp, as well as other nutrient-rich fruits, will be presented in a session entitled "Antioxidants in Fruits and Vegetables and Improving Human Health" at the 2nd International Symposium on Human Health Effects of Fruits and Vegetables on Wednesday, October 10, 2007, 10:15 a.m. - noon, in the Grand Salon East at the Omni Hotel in Houston, TX. Alexander Schauss, PhD, FACN, will highlight findings of in vitro studies evaluating the antioxidant capacity of MonaVie, as well as in vivo studies to determine antioxidant absorption and bioactivity.
This three-part study examined whether the fruit antioxidants in MonaVie are in a form able to enter into and protect living cells in vitro and also examined the bioavailability of MonaVie and its effect on serum biomarkers of oxidative damage after ingestion. An initial in vitro study was performed to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of MonaVie in a cell-based antioxidant capacity (CAP) assay, as well as using the TEAC assay that found it to be 28,421 umolTE/L. MonaVie showed a clear dose-dependent antioxidant effect in the CAP assay, indicating that compounds in MonaVie are able to cross the plasma membrane of living cells and subsequently provide significant protection from oxidative damage within the cells.
In the second stage of the study, four ounces of MonaVie was administered to six participants on a single day to identify the time course for antioxidant absorption and bioactivity. Blood samples were collected immediately prior to ingestion and at 30, 60 and 120 minutes post consumption. Evidence of absorption, based on increased antioxidant bioactivity and antioxidant compounds in serum was found in all six subjects. A third randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study of 12 healthy adults was then conducted. Participants fasted overnight and a baseline blood sample was drawn. Immediately afterward, four ounces of MonaVie or a placebo was consumed. Blood samples were drawn at one and two hours after ingestion, and CAP and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) assays were used to evaluate serum antioxidant capacity and serum lipid peroxidation, respectively. Consumption of MonaVie resulted in an increase in the serum antioxidant capacity in 11 of 12 participants within two hours of consumption. Results also found that ingestion of MonaVie resulted in a decrease in serum lipid peroxidation within two hours of consumption in 10 of the 12 study participants, most likely due to the increased serum antioxidant capacity.
Alexander G. Schauss, PhD, FACN, senior director of natural and medicinal products research for AIBMR Life Sciences, has held faculty appointments at four institutions of higher learning, including that of associate professor of behavioral sciences, associate professor of research, clinical professor of natural products research and adjunct research clinical professor of botanical medicine. He now concentrates on research. In 2005, he was the recipient of the Linus Pauling Lecture Award from the American College for the Advancement of Medicine for "contributions to the medical sciences." The author of 12 books on health and nutrition, and the senior co-author of four others, Dr. Schauss lives in Tacoma, Wash.
Founded in January 2005 and headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, MonaVie develops and markets scientifically formulated, premium quality nutritional juices. The company's flagship product, MonaVie Active(TM), is a proprietary blend of the acai berry, which independent studies have shown has the highest antioxidant activity of any fruit or vegetable in vitro, and other nutrient-dense fruits including pomegranate, goji berry, camu camu, passion fruit, aronia, acerola, bilberry, blueberry, apricot, purple grape, white grape, nashi pear, lychee, banana, kiwi, pear, cranberry and prune, each selected for its unique, beneficial properties. Acai contains concentrated levels of anthocyanins, a powerful family of antioxidants that assist in neutralizing harmful free radicals. The acai berries used to make MonaVie are processed in a cGMP, ISO certified and U.S. FDA-inspected food manufacturing facility in Brazil. For more information visit www.monavie.com.
The 2nd International Symposium on Human Health Effects of Fruit and Vegetables provides a forum for horticultural scientists, nutritionists, food scientists, biomedical scientists, chemists, biochemists, clinicians, medical professionals and social economists to exchange information and bridge the communication gap between the agricultural sciences, nutrition and health sciences. This symposium, sponsored by the 2nd International Society for Horticultural Sciences (ISHS) and Texas A&M's Vegetable and Fruit Improvement Center (VFIC) and Center for Obesity Research and Program Evaluation (CORPE), will focus on cultural and genotypic factors affecting the content of bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables, and will cover a wide range of topics related to the characterization, pharmacokinetics, nutrition and human health clinical aspects of fruits and vegetables. For more information visit http://favhealth2007.tamu.edu/index.htm.
# # #
Dr. Alex Schauss
AIBMR Life Sciences
P: 253-286-2888
alex@aibmr.com
Related Articles :
• Açaí - Potent Antioxidant Superfruit (2007-01-08)
The second in our mini-series of reviews covering the nutrient rich super-fruits currently receiving a lot of attention, provided us by Dr. Paul Gross (www.berrydoctor.com). Here we feature the Açaí Berry and will follow it up in upcoming months with additional berries and fruits.
• Anheuser-Busch Unlocks the Mystery of the Goji Berry (2007-02-26)
Company introduces 180 Red With Goji extending its '180' Energy Drink line, containing contains carbonated water; sucrose; Goji berry juice; acerola juice; guarana for natural caffeine; vitamins B-6, B-12 and C; and lychee natural flavor.
• Superfruits Take Center Stage (2007-02-26)
More than a dozen industry publications for functional foods and beverages have referred to various exotic or antioxidant species as "superfruits", yet this category presently does not have a working definition.
• Zola Acai Power Juice Line Now USDA Certified Organic (2007-03-27)
Product has been Certified Organic by QAI as of December 2006.
• BI Nutraceuticals Adds Super Fruit Extracts to Growing Beverage Ingredient Line (2007-05-09)
Company has introduced acai and goji berry powder extracts for beverage applications, derived from not only the fruit of the berries, but the peel, where a majority of the beneficial nutrients are contained.
• Jamba Juice Blends Up Functional Smoothies, Boosts & Shots (2007-08-02)
Company announces the launch of Functional smoothies, boosts and shots, formulated to meet specific health and lifestyle needs. Jamba Functional smoothies are available in 5 new flavors including Heart Defender(TM), Fit 'n Fruitful(TM) , Acai Super-Antioxidant(TM), Protein Berry Workout(TM) and Coldbuster(TM).
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Açaí - Potent Antioxidant Superfruit
2007-01-08 - Paul M. Gross, PhD
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Paul M. Gross, PhD
Just by its deep violet color, you know there is something special about açaí, the tropical palmberry (Euterpe oleraceae Mart.). With pigmentation so dense, its juice stains anything it touches – skin, cowhide, containers, even teeth when frequently taken undiluted.
Used for food, beverages, medicines and dyes by Amazon peasants over centuries, açaí has blazed its way into popularity on the US market over recent years as one of Nature's superfruits with a delicious taste and versatility of beverage and food applications.
Until recently, however, this reputation was based on assumptions that such a legendary and richly pigmented fruit would be nutritious and have exceptional antioxidant properties. Due to the remoteness and obscurity of açaí, and its highly perishable nature, no contract laboratory assays were available and there were few scientific studies in the medical or food science literature.
Even at the end of 2006, there were only 10 medical reports on açaí listed in PubMed, the online database of medical publications by the US National Library of Medicine (http://pubmed.gov).
However, two recent research publications and one contract assay have supplied new information about açaí that allows comparisons with other better-known nutritious, antioxidant fruits -- in this example, goji (“wolfberry”) and blueberry. Below is a summary of these new findings.
Nutrient Content
Upon review of the tables below are several new facts about the nutrient content of açaí. As the assessment of this berry's nutritional composition comes from two sources (4,7) whose açaí samples were not identical, average or approximated data are presented:
1. the caloric value of a single serving (approximately 600 calories per standard 100 g) is exceptional among comparative berry fruit such as goji (“wolfberry”, Lycium barbarum L.) and lowbush blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium L.), apparently due to its remarkably high fat content
2. the total fat content for açaí berry is highly unusual for fruit, some 40% of dry weight
3. it has a very high fiber content, approximately 35%
4. relative to the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and the micronutrient-dense goji berry, açaí has remarkable contents of several essential minerals – calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc
5. lipid-soluble antioxidant vitamins A and E are rich in concentration, 1000 IU and 45 mg per 100 g, respectively. 67% of the total tocopherols in açaí pulp are alpha-tocopherol (4).
Table 1. Macronutrients
(1) Laboratorio Catarinense SA, Joinville, Brazil, ref. 4
(2) Schauss et al., ref. 7
(3) Gross et al., ref. 3
(4) ref. 1
By comparison with the two other berry species shown - goji and blueberries - the new açaí analyses demonstrate a much higher energy, fat and fiber yield. By comparison to most plant foods, goji berry is also a high-calorie, nutrient-dense fruit, whereas blueberry is relatively lean in caloric value and nutrients.
Analysis of the fat composition by both sources (4,7) revealed the precise origins of açaí's exceptional lipid density. Nearly all of the saturated fatty acid content in açaí is from palmitic acid (IUPAC hexadecanoic acid, approx. 23%), monounsaturated fat is from oleic acid (approx. 58%, an omega-9 fat,18:1 ω-9), and polyunsaturated fats result from linoleic acid (12%, an omega-6 fat, 18:2 ω-6). These three fatty acids, therefore, make up 93% of the total lipids in açaí. The oleic acid content of açaí is the same as in olive oil.
A similar compartmental analysis of fiber sources was not completed in either study. Previously, analysis of high-fiber plant foods like Rubus and goji berries showed that pectins, lignans, cellulose and polysaccharides comprise the high fiber content of these fruits (3). It would be valuable to have such an assay done on açaí pulp as this fruit appears to be truly exceptional as a dietary fiber source.
Both assays included data for several phytosterols, plant-derived lipids with structure similar to mammalian cholesterol. Phytosterols have considerable promise as cholesterol-lowering and anticancer agents in human therapies (5). In each study, beta-sitosterol was the dominant element, comprising some 85% (average) of the total for all sterols (Table 2). These results reveal açaí as an enriched food source of this valuable phytosterol.
In summary, açaí fruit displays unusually high contents of calories, diverse fats, fiber and phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol.
The density of several minerals in açaí is a significant percentage of the DRI, especially for copper and zinc which equal or exceed the DRI (Table 2). In one assay (4), vitamin E content was 3-times the DRI (Table 2).
Table 2. Essential Micronutrients
(1) Laboratorio Catarinense SA, Joinville, Brazil, ref. 4
(2) Schauss et al., ref. 7
(3) Gross et al., ref. 3
(4) ref. 1
* not considered a micronutrient; x, no RDI established; ^ demonstrated in fruit, roots and leaves of Lycium barbarum L. or Lycium chinense (3); ? no reports
Phenolic Antioxidants
Attention of food chemists is drawn readily to açaí by its rich color, a subjective indication of high concentration of phenolic pigments with antioxidant properties that may convey health benefits for numerous human disease conditions (8,9).
Both studies (4,8) analyzed açaí pulp for phenolic compounds, finding levels of anthocyanins were1% of sample mass (4) and total phenolics unexpectedly moderate (1.4 g per 100 g, ref. 8). It is likely that phenolics not yet identified are present in açaí, indicating a need for further analysis of pigments in this intriguing berry.
In the study by Schauss and coworkers (8), measurements of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (“ORAC”, antioxidant strength) were performed on freeze-dried açaí pulp and skin powders in vitro for each of four reactive oxygen species (ROS) - superoxide, peroxynitrite, hydroxyl radical and peroxyl radical for both hydrophilic- and lipid-soluble species.
The assay for superoxide, considered perhaps the most representative determination of antioxidant capacity (as it is involved in formation of other ROS and circulates systemically in blood), revealed a value of 161,400 units per 100 g, the highest result yet found for superoxide radical among plant foods (8). Total ORAC (against peroxyl radical) determined from both hydrophilic and lipophilic sources was 102,700 units per 100 g, again the highest value found to date among edible fruits and vegetables for this radical (8). Additional evidence showed that açaí pulp significantly inhibited the formation of all ROS in vitro (8).
Research Directions, Commercial Development and Potential Health Effects.
To date, there has been limited research interest in açaí mainly due its novelty in food science, but this is certain to change in coming years. Appealing exotic foods with high antioxidant strength and rich nutrient content will undoubtedly attract scientific attention and find diverse applications in the functional food industry.
A potential problem in developing açaí for broader commercial purposes as a functional food is susceptibility to oxidation due to its exceptional fat content. This will be a significant challenge to prevent spoiling during post-harvest handling, processing and shipping. Freeze-drying of the fresh pulp is one solution that appears to effectively preserve nutrients (7,8).
Dozens of diseases have a component of oxidative stress at their origins, such as chronic inflammation, atherosclerosis, diabetes and cancer (8,9), and so may be prevented or inhibited by high-antioxidant fruit like açaí.
For example, a recent study showed that açaí antioxidants could induce more rapid death (apoptosis) of leukemia cells in vitro (2). This preliminary research indicates a possible anti-cancer effect of anthocyanins and other açaí pigments, similar to promising laboratory results examining phenolics in the black raspberry as a chemopreventive food source (6).
References
1. Blueberry Nutrients, World's Healthiest Foods,
http://whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrientprofile&dbid=84
2. Del Pozo-Insfran D, Percival SS, Talcott ST. Acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) polyphenolics in their glycoside and aglycone forms induce apoptosis of HL-60 leukemia cells. J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Feb 22;54(4):1222-9.
3. Gross PM, Zhang X, Zhang R, Wolfberry: Nature’s Bounty of Nutrition and Health, Booksurge Publishing (Amazon.com), 2006.
4. Laboratorio Catarinense SA, Joinville, Brazil and Markan Global Enterprises, http://thesuperberry.com/constituents.htm
5. Ling WH, Jones PJ. Dietary phytosterols: a review of metabolism, benefits and side effects. Life Sci. 1995;57(3):195-206.
6. Lu H, Li J, Zhang D, Stoner GD, Huang C. Molecular mechanisms involved in chemoprevention of black raspberry extracts: from transcription factors to their target genes. Nutr Cancer. 2006;54(1):69-78.
7. Schauss AG, Wu X, Prior RL, Ou B, Patel D, Huang D, Kababick JP. Phytochemical and nutrient composition of the freeze-dried amazonian palm berry, Euterpe oleraceae mart. (acai).
J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Nov 1;54(22):8598-603.
8. Schauss AG, Wu X, Prior RL, Ou B, Huang D, Owens J, Agarwal A, Jensen GS, Hart AN, Shanbrom E. Antioxidant capacity and other bioactivities of the freeze-dried amazonian palm berry, Euterpe oleraceae mart. (acai). J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Nov 1;54(22):8604-10.
9. Valko M, Leibfritz D, Moncol J, Cronin MT, Mazur M, Telser J. Free radicals and antioxidants in normal physiological functions and human disease. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2006 Jan;39(1):44-84.
About the Author. Paul M. Gross, Ph.D., received his doctorate in physiology from the University of Glasgow, Scotland and was a post-doctoral fellow in neuroscience at the Laboratory of Cerebral Metabolism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD. A former Research Scholar for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, he published 85 peer-reviewed journal reports and book chapters over a 25 year career in medical science, and was recipient of the Karger Memorial Award, Switzerland, for publications on brain capillaries. Dr. Gross is on the Steering Committee of the International Berry Health Association. He is senior author of a 2006 book on the goji berry entitled Wolfberry: Nature’s Bounty of Nutrition and Health (Booksurge Publishing, Amazon.com, http://wolfberry.org) and is publisher of The Berry Doctor's Journal, http://berrydoctor.com where the public can obtain free information on berry science and nutrition.
Anheuser-Busch Unlocks the Mystery of the Goji Berry
2007-02-26 - Anheuser-Busch
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ST. LOUIS, Feb 26, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX/ -- Deep in the unpopulated regions of Tibet grows one of the world's most nutritionally rich fruits thought to increase energy and stimulate rejuvenation. Known as the Goji (pronounced go-gee) berry, this small, red superfood has one of the highest antioxidant levels of any fruit and is capturing the attention of food and drink enthusiasts worldwide. Today, Anheuser-Busch is introducing 180 Red with Goji -- a new energy drink with a refreshing, slightly sweet cherry taste balanced with subtle tartness.
Legend has it that the health benefits of the Goji berry were an accidental discovery. Outside a famous Buddhist temple was a wall covered in Goji berries. Over the years, hundreds of berries fell in a well near the wall. Frequent visitors to the temple who drank water from this well had the ruddy complexion of good health. Gradually, the benefits were documented and spread among the nearby communities. As a result, Goji berries have enjoyed a privileged place in Asian culture for thousands of years.
"Anheuser-Busch is the first major beverage company to launch an energy drink made with the exotic Goji berry," said Andy Goeler; vice president; Imports, Crafts and Specialty; Anheuser-Busch, Inc. "Not only does this give 180 Red its unique attributes, it also gives adults a great-tasting energy drink they can enjoy during active events or socially with friends. This unique combination will appeal to people who live a healthy lifestyle but don't want to sacrifice taste."
Energy drinks are popular choices for active adults looking to supplement their busy schedules with a refreshing boost. For adults on-the-go, 180 Red with Goji contains carbonated water; sucrose; Goji berry juice; acerola juice; guarana for natural caffeine; vitamins B-6, B-12 and C; and lychee natural flavor.
This new beverage joins two new 180 flavors today as well. 180 Blue Low-Calorie and 180 Sugar-Free Orange Citrus Blast are extensions of popular existing 180 flavors and are ideal for adults who regularly use low-calorie and sugar-free products.
Following the fall 2006 introduction of 180 Blue, 180 Blue Low-Calorie has a subtly sweet berry and grape flavor obtained from the Acai (pronounced ah-sigh-ee) berry, red grape and blueberry juices, but with only 15 calories. Acai is a small, dark, purple fruit from the palmberry tree. It usually grows in the wild Amazonian jungles in Brazil, where it is harvested. The Acai berry is rich in antioxidants, B vitamins, minerals (particularly iron), fiber, proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. 180 Sugar-Free Orange Citrus Blast contains only five calories and a refreshing citrus-orange taste.
"As adults' preferences and tastes continue to evolve and become more distinct, we need to find new flavors and styles to excite them," said Goeler. "Our three newest 180 flavors fit seamlessly into our energy drink family, offering a range of choices for every adult."
Each new flavor is available nationally, beginning today, at grocery and convenience stores in 8.2- and 16-ounce cans.
Based in St. Louis, Anheuser-Busch (BUD) is the leading American brewer, holding a 48.8 percent share of U.S. beer sales. The company brews the world's largest-selling beers, Budweiser and Bud Light. Anheuser-Busch also owns a 50 percent share in Grupo Modelo, Mexico's leading brewer, and a 27 percent share in China brewer Tsingtao, whose namesake beer brand is the country's best-selling premium beer. Anheuser-Busch ranked No. 1 among beverage companies in FORTUNE Magazine's Most Admired U.S. and Global Companies lists in 2006. Anheuser-Busch is one of the largest theme park operators in the United States, is a major manufacturer of aluminum cans and one of the world's largest recyclers of aluminum cans. For more information, visit http://www.anheuser-busch.com .
Superfruits Take Center Stage
2007-02-26 - By Dr. Paul Gross - Berrydoctor.com
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Defining an Emergent Category
Paul M. Gross, Phd
In 2004, the term “superfoods” was popularized by a best-selling book (1) proposing 14 whole foods with extraordinary nutrition. One – blueberries – became known as a “superfruit” (2) when its exceptional antioxidant properties were revealed by publication of USDA data on food antioxidant strength, the oxygen radical absorbance capacity or ORAC (3), ranking blueberries near the top of common plant foods.
More than a dozen industry publications for functional foods and beverages have referred to various exotic or antioxidant species as “superfruits” (4-24), yet this category presently does not have a working definition.
The purpose of this article is to give the superfruit category commercial and scientific dimensions.
Identifying Superfruits
The following list is not intended to be comprehensive, but gives names and main geographic origins for fruits (growers, manufacturers) and their products typically included in this category over 2004-present
1. Açaí (Euterpe oleracea), Brazil
2. Blueberry (Vaccinium angustifolium), Canada/USA
3. Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon), USA
4. Grape (red, Vitis vinifera), USA
5. Guaraná (Paullinia cupana), Brazil, Venezuela
6. Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), South Pacific Islands, Malaysia
7. Noni (Morinda citrifolia), South Pacific Islands
8. Pomegranate (Punica granatum), Mediterranean Region, USA
9. Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides), China
10. Wolfberry (“goji”, Lycium barbarum), China
Common berries, such as strawberries, raspberries and blackberries used for a large number of consumer products, achieve many of the criteria below. They are, however, sufficiently known in the public, so do not attract interest as novelty fruits and are not usually included among superfruits.
Other superfruit candidates currently include cupuaçu, guava, lychee, pomelo, saskatoon berry, tamarind and yuzu for which there is currently insufficient commercial information to include in this presentation. Each of these and the tabulated fruits has a reference page on Wikipedia, http://wikipedia.org.
Commerce
With more than 5,000 new product launches on berries in 2005 (19), an annual growth rate in Europe of more than 25% for sales (22), and at least 500 new products in development (5), the superfruit category is poised to make significant commercial impact.
But what characteristics identify current superfruits with commercial potential?
Table 1. Seven factors potentially influencing commercial success of superfruits*
Novelty Appeal (a) Supply Product Promotion Sales Growth
Açaí 4 3 1 pulp powder 2 2 3
Blueberry 2 4 4 juice, fruit 4 4 4
Cranberry 2 4 4 juice 4 4 4
Red Grape 1 3 4 juice 3 4 3
Guaraná 3 2 2 seed powder (b) 2 2 3
Mangosteen 4 4 3 juice 3 4 4
Noni 2 2 3 juice 3 3 3
Pomegranate 4 4 4 juice 4 4 4
Seabuckthorn 3 1 2 juice 1 1 2
Wolfberry 4 3 3 juice, fruit 2 2 2
* Table values are the author's subjective rankings of 1-4 based on available industry data where 1 represents little commercial activity and 4 represents significant success
(a) taste, aroma, color, shape, perceived benefit
(b) Guaraná, unique among these fruits - as only its seed powder is included in this comparison - is an ingredient providing caffeine-like qualities whereas the other fruits are primary sources for finished products.
Science
Although a superfruit category has not been defined scientifically, its foundation presumably would involve characteristics of 1) high nutrient density, 2) superior antioxidant quality, and/or 3) potential health benefits. Evidence for this third criterion would include intensity of the current research effort and/or preliminary evidence for lowered disease risk in human subjects (“disease impact”).
Table 2. Four factors underlying a scientific basis for the superfruit category*
Nutrient density Antioxidant strength (a) Research intensity Potential for disease impact
Açaí 4 4 1 4
Blueberry 2 2 4 4
Cranberry 2 2 4 4
Red Grape 2 2 4 3
Guaraná 2 1 2 2
Mangosteen 1 1 b 2 2
Noni 2 2 3 4
Pomegranate 1 3 4 4
Seabuckthorn 4 4 2 4
Wolfberry 4 3 3 4
* Table values are the author's subjective rankings of 1-4 based on published research retrieved by PubMed, http://pubmed.gov where 1 indicates little scientific support and 4 represents strong scientific evidence.
a. rankings are among just these fruits. By comparison to other plant foods (3), these fruits are all high in antioxidant strength (where data are available)
b. the edible part of mangosteen fruit – its seed aril – has not been assessed individually for antioxidant strength (although is expected to be low because the edible fruit is devoid of pigments) whereas its inedible exocarp contains dense pigmentation and antioxidant phytochemicals, see Ref. (8).
Conclusion
Seven commercial and four scientific criteria are presented to construct a working definition of the superfruit category for the related industries of functional foods, beverages and nutraceuticals.
References
1. Pratt S, Matthews K. Superfoods Rx, New York: HarperCollins, 2004.
2. Wild Blueberry Association of North America, http://www.wildblueberries.com/health_benefits.php
3. Wu X, Beecher GR, Holden JM, Haytowitz DB, Gebhardt SE, Prior RL. Lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant capacities of common foods in the United States. J Agric Food Chem. 2004 Jun 16;52(12):4026-37.
4. Starling S. Acai positioned to tap fruitful market, 2007. http://www.ffnmag.com/ASP/articleDisplay.asp?strArticleId=1232&strSite=FFNSite&Screen=HOME
5. Lidsky D. The superfruits are coming, 2006, http://www.fastcompany.com/magazine/110/next-superfruits.html
6. Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals, Amazon superfruits set to boom, 2006 http://www.ffnmag.com/NH/ASP/strArticleID/1180/strSite/FFNSite/articleDisplay.asp
7. Gross PM. Exotic antioxidant superfruits. Pomegranate punicalagins: ancient aril antioxidants, 2007, NPICenter.com, in press.
8. Gross PM. Is mangosteen a superfruit? Nutrient and antioxidant properties, 2007 http://www.npicenter.com/anm/templates/newsATemp.aspx?articleid=17613&zoneid=43
9. Gross PM. Açaí – Potent antioxidant superfruit, 2007 http://www.npicenter.com/anm/templates/newsATemp.aspx?articleid=17363&zoneid=43
10. Gross PM. Goji's dozen friends of eye health, 2006 http://www.npicenter.com/anm/templates/newsATemp.aspx?articleid=17095&zoneid=43
11. Gross PM. Exploring exotic antioxidant superfruits, 2006 http://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/articles/472/6ah169431758327.html
12. Gross PM, Zhang X, Zhang R. Wolfberry: Nature's Bounty of Nutrition and Health, Booksurge Publishing, 2006, http://wolfberry.org
13. HortResearch. “Superfruits”, the future of health, 2006, http://www.hortresearch.co.nz/index/news/493
14. Halliday J. Superfruits could wrestle gut health beverages from dairy, 2006, http://www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=71650-hortresearch-prebiotic-beverages
15. Douaud C. Pressure group denounces superfruit juices, 2006, http://www.nutraingredients-usa.com/news/ng.asp?id=71664
16. FSA calls for noni juice approval, 2006, http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?n=69401-noni-juice-fruit
17. Changes to novel food laws aim to simplify application process, 2006, http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?n=68158-novel-foods-additives-phytosterols
18. Fletcher A. EU novel foods consultation nears deadline, 2006, http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?n=69034-novel-foods-gm-fruit
19. Fletcher A. Superfruits set to dominate flavor market, 2006, http://www.foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?n=66783-datamonitor-flavours-antioxidant
20. Heller L. Superfruits and grains to set next functional trend?, 2006, http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=66095-ccd-fruits-grains-functional-foods
21. Demand for exotic fruits set to increase in 2006, report, http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/news/ng.asp?n=65205-ccd-exotic-fruits-white-tea
22. Mellentin J. Marketing wellness: fruit in the food and beverage industry, 2006, http://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/articles/470/470_611marketresearch02.html
23. Mellentin J. Ten key trends in functional foods 2006, New Nutrition Business, The Centre for Food & Health Studies Ltd., London, UK, 2006.
24. Mazza G. Compositional and functional properties of saskatoon berry and blueberry. Int. J. Fruit Sci. 2005, 5(3):99-118.
About the Author
Paul M. Gross, Ph.D., received his doctorate in physiology from the University of Glasgow, Scotland and was a post-doctoral fellow in neuroscience at the Laboratory of Cerebral Metabolism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD. A former Research Scholar for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, he published 85 peer-reviewed journal reports and book chapters over a 25 year career in medical science, and was recipient of the Karger Memorial Award, Switzerland, for publications on brain capillaries. Dr. Gross is on the Steering Committee of the International Berry Health Association. He is senior author of a 2006 book on the goji berry entitled Wolfberry: Nature’s Bounty of Nutrition and Health (Booksurge Publishing, Amazon.com, http://wolfberry.org/) and is publisher of The Berry Doctor's Journal, http://berrydoctor.com where the public can obtain free information on berry science and nutrition.
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Zola Acai Power Juice Line Now USDA Certified Organic
2007-03-27 - Zola Acai
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SAN FRANCISCO, CA, Mar 27, 2007 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- Zola Acai, the world's first Acai Power Juice and the best selling single Acai drink in the natural foods channel according to the SPINS market research firm, has been Certified Organic by QAI as of December 2006. All three Zola flavors -- Acai Original, Acai + Pineapple, and Acai + Blueberry -- now carry the USDA Organic seal.
"Zola has always used 100% organic Acai and being officially certified as organic reaffirms our commitment to sustainable harvesting and to the preservation of the Amazon rainforest. It also lets our customers know that all three of our flavors are from 100% unfiltered, organic Acai," said Chris Cuvelier, Zola Acai's founder and president. "In addition, organic beverages experienced a 97 percent sales increase over the last five years, and sales are estimated to reach over $2 billion by 2011. Given this tremendous category growth, we see our own organic certification as a very positive development for Zola."
Zola Acai is made from 100% unfiltered pulp of organic, antioxidant-rich Acai berries and infused with energy-sustaining Guarana powder, giving consumers health and power in Amazon-sized quantities. Zola is available in three flavors: Acai + Pineapple, Acai + Blueberry, and the newly renamed Acai Original. They are available in 11-ounce singles, and in 12-pack cases for bulk purchases, both of which ship in newly updated packaging.
About Zola Acai
Zola Acai combines a proprietary processing technology with an authentic Brazilian recipe to produce an organic, all-natural product that tastes great. Our key ingredient is the organic Acai berry, which has more antioxidants than any other edible fruit on the planet, including 60% more than pomegranates and 500% more than blueberries. Zola is made from 100% unfiltered pulp of antioxidant-rich Acai berries and infused with energy-sustaining Guarana powder. Zola's powerful combination of carbs, protein, and Guarana is perfect for people on the go who need hours of sustained energy. Zola's packaging is 12-month shelf stable, giving retailers the flexibility to sell Zola in produce coolers and on grocery shelves. Zola is sold nationally at Whole Foods, Wild Oats, and Vitamin Shoppe, and regionally at King Sooper, Ralphs, Wegmans and Costco. Zola is available in three flavors: Acai Original, Acai + Pineapple, and Acai + Blueberry. Visit www.DrinkZola.com.
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Jamba Juice Blends Up Functional Smoothies, Boosts & Shots
2007-08-02 - Jamba Juice
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EMERYVILLE, CA, Aug 02, 2007 (MARKET WIRE via COMTEX) -- Jamba Juice, the category-defining leader in healthy-blended beverages, smoothies and good-for-you snacks, announces today the launch of Functional smoothies, boosts and shots, formulated to meet specific health and lifestyle needs.
As Americans are demanding more health and performance benefits from their beverages, Jamba Functionals offer a refreshing palette of products that deliver key nutrients and offer unique health properties associated with super foods such as acai berries, cholesterol-blocking plant sterols, soy and whey protein and matcha green tea.
Jamba Functional smoothies are available in 5 new flavors, each providing great-tasting ways to be healthier:
-- Heart Defender(TM) helps keep the heart healthy with plant sterols and pomegranates*
-- Fit 'n Fruitful(TM) helps naturally reduce body fat and energize metabolism**
-- Acai Super-Antioxidant(TM) provides a powerful package of antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals and maintain healthy cells
-- Protein Berry Workout(TM) assists pre or post-workouts to build muscles, promote cell growth, and offer active individuals with 19 grams of protein in an original size smoothie
-- Coldbuster(TM) helps bolster the immune system with a one-two punch of Immunity and Antioxidant Power Boosts to combat feeling under the weather
A 16oz. Functional smoothie averages 267 calories, 3.3 grams of fiber, and 2 servings of fruit. As with all Jamba smoothies, these products do not contain high-fructose corn syrup or trans fats.
"Jamba Functionals harness the power of fruit and other all-natural ingredients, and then put them to work," said Kristel Cerna, director, product marketing at Jamba Juice. "Men and women will benefit from Jamba's new line of smoothies, boosts, and shots, each packed with specific vitamins and minerals that serve a powerfully unique purpose -- whether it's heart health, recovery from a workout, or helping you get back on your feet after being under the weather."
In addition, Jamba Functionals include 10 new-and-improved boosts and shots that deliver better efficacy and minimal taste impact. Each reformulated boost contains unique blends of concentrated vitamins, minerals and other nutrients specialized for specific health and lifestyle needs:
-- Weight Burner New! Super Boost
-- Heart Happy* New! Super Boost
-- Whey Protein New! Super Boost
-- Antioxidant Power New! Super Boost
-- Green Caffeine New! Free Boost
-- Calcium New! Free Boost
-- Immunity Improved! Free Boost
-- Energy Improved! Free Boost
-- Daily Vitamin Improved! Free Boost
-- Soy Protein Improved! Free Boost
-- Matcha Green Tea Shot with Soymilk
-- Matcha Green Tea Shot with Orange Juice
-- Wheatgrass Juice
*Foods containing at least .4 grams per serving of plant sterol eaten twice a day with meals for a daily total intake of at least .8 grams, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. A serving of the Heart Happy boost supplies .4 grams of plant sterols.
**Note: Results will not be achieved with sporadic consumption. CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) intake of between 1.7 grams per day to 3.6 grams per day for 8 to 12 weeks when combined with healthy diet and exercise can lead to improved weight management. A serving of the Weight Burner boost supplies 2 grams of CLA.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult with your physician before using these products if you have health problems or are pregnant or nursing. These products are not recommended for children.
ABOUT JAMBA JUICE
Founded in 1990, JAMBA JUICE(R) is the category-defining leader in healthy blended beverages, juices, and good-for-you snacks. Jamba Juice Company, a subsidiary of Jamba, Inc. (JMBA) , owns and franchises JAMBA JUICE(R) stores. Today, Jamba Juice has more than 640 stores, of which more than 420 are company-owned and operated. For the nearest location or a complete menu, please call: 1-866-4R-FRUIT or visit the JAMBA JUICE(R) Web site at www.jambajuice.com.
BI Nutraceuticals Adds Super Fruit Extracts to Growing Beverage Ingredient Line
2007-05-09 - BI Nutraceuticals
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LONG BEACH, Calif., May 9, 2007 - BI Nutraceuticals, the leading supplier of quality raw materials and custom blends for 30 years, has introduced acai and goji berry powder extracts for beverage applications. These new ingredients are all-natural extracts derived from not only the fruit of the berries, but the peel, where a majority of the beneficial nutrients are contained.
"Demand for super fruit ingredients has grown rapidly, and these extracts offer beverage manufacturers a way to add antioxidant activity and other healthful properties to their finished products," stated George Pontiakos, President and CEO, BI Nutraceuticals. "Not only are our super fruit extracts incredibly potent, they are also subjected to the same rigorous quality control processes as all of our ingredient offerings."
These new ingredients join BI's expanding line of powder extracts for use in beverages, which includes: acerola; blueberry; eleuthero; gingko; ginseng; American ginseng; grape seed; guarana; and yerba mate.
BI Nutraceuticals, with facilities in Long Beach, Calif., Islandia, NY and Suzhou, China, is a global full-service supplier of dietary supplement and functional food ingredients including whole herb powders and teas, standardized and drug ratio extracts, custom blends, vitamins, minerals and other specialty supplements. BI also provides drum to hopper custom blends and granular, time released and encapsulated ingredients. All ingredients undergo heavy metal, pesticide and irradiation testing, and herbal powders are also analyzed using BI's Identilok(R) species identification process. The company has additionally developed UltraHD(R), a process which creates high-density herbal powders allowing for superior flow and less dusting during the manufacturing process. BI also offers steam sterilization via the company's Protexx HP(TM) process, which utilizes high pressure, super-heated dry steam to ensure ingredients maintain their color and active compounds without water saturation problems. For more information visit www.binutraceuticals.com.
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Dr.Alessandro-Achei MARAVILHOSO seu artigo sôbrepais superprotetores e me incluo em todos os itens só que, com uma pequena diferença; meus filhos já são adultos e sinto nêles agora o reflexo de toda insegurança que passei para êles, o que posso fazer agora? Só uma filha saiu totalmente diferente dos outros, enfrenta tudo que vem pela frente. Peço um conselho já meio tardio! Um abraço Francesca
Dr.Alessandro
Gostei muito do seu artigo sôbre pais superprotetores, senti que estava falando de mim, só que no meu caso meus filhos já são adultos e vejo o reflexo dos meus temores nêles, que faço? Só a filha do meio saiu totalmente diferente, não tem mêdo de enfrentar adversidades. Será que ainda posso fazer alguma coisa por êles, um abraço Francesca
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