Chapters authored
Vitamin K2: Implications for Cardiovascular Health in the Context of Plant-Based Diets, with Applications for Prostate Health
Vitamin K was originally discovered as a blood coagulation factor. But observations regarding intakes in populations and health outcomes lead to a deeper understanding of the differences between vitamins K1 and K2. Studies of warfarin-treated rats and MGP -deficient mice led to understanding the central role of MGP in controlling calcification of arteries. A sensitive biomarker assay was then developed, based on a particular species of matrix γ–carboxylation protein OR matrix GLA protein (MGP). Warfarin therapy in people, especially those suffering from chronic kidney disease, was found to cause the highest level of this biomarker desphospho-uncarboxylated MGP (dp-ucMGP). Intervention studies with vitamin K2 brought down levels of dp-ucMGP and also led to relief of some disease endpoints. The process of varicose vein formation includes a role for vitamin K, implicating a lack of vitamin K in the development of varicoceles, which leads to benign prostate hyperplasia. It is likely that much good will be accomplished using vitamin K2 in interventions. Complex, multifaceted diseases will not be treated by single-nutrient solutions. The best interventions will be those which combine vitamin K2 treatment with a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, combined with a healthy lifestyle.
Part of the book: Vitamin K2
The Beneficial Role of Nuts and Seeds in a Plant-Based Diet
In the last several years research has been accumulating that demonstrates that nuts and seeds are beneficial for all people. While some plant-based diet programs have embraced the inclusion of nuts and seeds, other programs have eschewed nuts and seeds, remaining firmly committed to a starch-based dietary pattern. This chapter assembles the scientific evidence regarding the benefits of nuts and seeds into three issues: (1) The nutrient density of nuts and seeds compared to grains and legumes of the same caloric content, (2) The improvement of health outcomes and extra benefits when nuts and seeds are included in plant-based diets, (3) The safety of nuts and seeds when a person is dealing with cancer. As a result of examining these issues with the known scientific evidence it will become apparent that one to two ounces of nuts and seeds daily is a very beneficial part of a plant-based diet.
Part of the book: Plant-Based Diet