Acesulfame potassium is a zero-calorie sweetener that is added to many sugar-free…
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Hibiscus
Hibiscus
Hibiscus
What is it:
Hibiscus, or Hibiscus sabdariffa, is a tropical plant known for its large, colorful flowers and tangy, slightly tart flavor. The dried petals of the hibiscus flower are commonly used in teas and culinary applications. To process hibiscus for use in teas, the petals are harvested, cleaned, and then dried, preserving their vibrant red color and distinct flavor. In addition to teas, hibiscus is also used to add flavor and color to various foods and beverages, including jams, sauces, and cocktails.
Rating:
Hibiscus is rich in bioactive compounds, and has been studied for its anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. It may improve metabolic and cardiovascular biomarkers, including lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels.
Resources:
- Hibiscus may improve cardiovascular risk factors (systematic review and meta-analysis)
- Hibiscus may improve biomarkers of metabolic syndrome (systematic review)
- Mechanism of action of hibiscus in the treatment of chronic diseases (review)
How we rate ingredients
Health is like a bank account, certain ingredients make a deposit into your health bank, meaning they add to
your health. Certain ingredients withdraw from your health bank. We want health promoting ingredients in our diet. To keep things simple, we rate ingredients on a green, yellow, red scale:
Clean
It is naturally occurring in food and has no harmful effects on the body. It is real food. It is health promoting.
Caution
It goes into one or more of the below categories
- It is not naturally occurring in food but doesn’t have data showing it has a harmful effect on the body (additives like Gellan Gum)
- It is naturally occurring but can have some harmful effects on the body (added sugars, oils, gums etc.)
We Avoid
It is known to have a harmful effect on the body (ex. All food colorings, Natural Flavors, MSG, Potassium bromate, aspartame, artificial flavors)
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