As allergy season approaches in Kigali, the incidence of
people suffering from itchy eyes, sneezes and runny noses is on the rise. So
what can we eat to help ease the symptoms. The answer may be in a little known
compound called Vitamin U. Vitamin U, also known as S-methylmethionine, is
a water-soluble compound that was first discovered in the 1950s by Dr. Garnett
Cheney. It is not technically classified as a vitamin, but rather as a
phytonutrient. Despite not being classified as a vitamin, it still provides
many important health benefits.
Sources of Vitamin U:
Vitamin U can be found in a variety of foods, including:
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Cabbage: Cabbage is one of the best sources of vitamin U. Both red and green cabbage contain high amounts of vitamin U.
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Broccoli: Broccoli is another great source of vitamin U. It is also a great source of other important nutrients, such as vitamin C and fiber.
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Brussel Sprouts: Brussel sprouts are a great source of vitamin U, as well as many other important nutrients.
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Spinach: Spinach is another good source of vitamin U, as well as other important nutrients such as iron and vitamin K.
Benefits of Vitamin U:
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Promotes Digestive Health: Vitamin U has been shown to promote digestive health by protecting the lining of the stomach and intestines. This can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
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Helps Treat Peptic Ulcers: Peptic ulcers are painful sores that develop in the lining of the stomach and intestines. Vitamin U has been shown to be effective in treating and preventing peptic ulcers.
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Reduces Inflammation: Vitamin U has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be particularly beneficial for those with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
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Boosts Immune System: Vitamin U has been shown to boost the immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells. This can help the body fight off infections and other illnesses.
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Helps with Allergies: Vitamin U has been shown to reduce the symptoms of allergies by reducing inflammation in the body.