Women need more nutritional supplements than men

Source: The Hindu, 03-05-2006

Women need more nutritional supplements than men

Special Correspondent

`It is because their physiology is different from that of men'

· Garlic can cure most infections, including cold

· For a healthy heart, red wine or grape juice in moderation helps

Bangalore: "Many ask me why women need a different set of nutritional supplements than men. The answer is simple — different physiology,'' says nutritionist Uma Vasudeva. For example, compared to men, elderly women than men tend to suffer from brittle bones and the consequent weakening of joins. Hence they need calcium supplements, she says.

Instead of taking tablets, they can get most of the calcium they need from milk and milk products.

There are many common spices and condiments that can cure ailments and act as nutritional supplement. Garlic can cure most infections, including cold. Around 250 to 300 grams a day would do. Turmeric, a staple ingredient in Indian cooking, has the ability to speed the processing of cholesterol, and if applied on the skin, can act as a disinfectant and reduce the effects of insect bites. Red and green chillies in moderation help to reduce bad cholesterol too, Ms. Vasudeva.

"While garlic alone may not cure a cold, use it along with the juice of citrus fruits that contains plenty of Vitamin C, and with masala tea, which should include ginger powder,'' says Ms. Vasudeva. Ginger is of course known to cure many digestive problems too. The bacteria found in curd and buttermilk help cure indigestion, she says.

Omega 3 oils found in seafood are known to reduce heart problems. Some kinds of fish oil may also help in reducing the pain and stiffness of arthritis. Hypertension is a problem that affects women as much as men, and the natural remedies for this include food rich in potassium such as banana, beans, orange juice and raisins.

For a healthy heart, red wine or grape juice in moderation helps. "One reason why women need more nutrients is because in many homes, they tend to finish what is left after others eat. and this just may leave their bodies short of certain nutrients they need during their reproductive years and after menopause," says Ms. Vasudeva.