The Best Form of Vitamin E?

Annatto is a type of food coloring made from the seeds of the achiote tree (Bixa orellana). Did you know that about 70% of natural food colors are derived from it? Annatto is also used as a flavoring agent that is best described as nutty and peppery. Annatto has been used in arts and medicine for a long time. Other names include achiote, achiotillo, bija, urucum, and atsuete. Its color comes from the pigment called carotenoids, which are in the outer layer of the seeds and many other fruits and vegetables, such as carrots and tomatoes.

Annatto contains many plant-based compounds with antioxidant properties, including carotenoids, terpenoids, flavonoids, and tocotrienols. According to studies, annatto extracts inhibit the growth of various bacteria and fungi. One study showed that pork patties that were treated with annatto powder had less microbial growth than untreated patties after 14 days in storage. Annatto also demonstrates potential anti-cancer properties due to its compounds, such as carotenoids bixin, norbixin, and tocotrienols, which is a type of vitamin E. Annatto is high in carotenoids, which benefit eye health. The seeds contain many beneficial active ingredients that help reduce free radicals, fight pathogens, lower cholesterol, improve bone health, etc. Tocotrienols represent half of the family of vitamin E compounds; they are less commonly found in foods and supplements. Studies have shown that tocotrienols are more potent than tocopherols in neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells and organelles from oxidative damage. Tocotrienols reduce cholesterol synthesis by inhibiting the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme and improving lipid profiles. Annatto tocotrienols also improve skin elasticity and hair strength; they boost the immune system by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Tocotrienols have also been shown to prevent the rapid growth of cancer cells. Annatto tocotrienol provides many health benefits, including supporting bone health and preventing osteoporosis, reducing hyperpigmentation, repairing skin damage, healing wounds, and preventing skin cancer. Tocotrienol has inflammation-modulating properties in the liver and adipose tissue, which help improve lipid profile, reduce inflammation, and support glucose homeostasis.
Amazing Health Benefits of Annatto seeds include the following:

• Benefits eye health due to its high beta-carotene content.
• Provides antimicrobial properties for food safety.
• Reduces inflammation due to its rich antioxidant profile.
• Prevents skin damage against inflammation and UV radiation.
• Improves cardiovascular health.
• Boosts immunity and prevents cancers.

Annatto seeds can be ground up into a paste or powder and combined with other spices or seeds in various dishes, which makes it popular in many countries. Plus, its seeds can be used to make essential oils that are used in aromatherapy and have antimicrobial effects.

I hope you enjoy the information and have a wonderful weekend. 

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