Annatto

Benefits of Taking Annatto Supplements

Annatto does provide nutritional benefits as a supplement. Annatto supplements are often taken to fight indigestion, heartburn, and digestive problems. This is due to the properties in annatto which reduce acid in the digestive tract.

• Annatto supplements are used as a dietary supplement because they contain a high concentration of vitamin E. Vitamin E works to kill bacteria and germs which enter the body.
• Bixin is a carotenid found in annatto which has antioxidant properties and improves the quality of liver functions.
• Individuals who take annatto supplements to lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol are quite pleased with the results. This is due to the cholesterol lowering fat that is found naturally in annatto. The vitamin E in Annatto also helps to improve cholesterol levels.
• Another benefit of high concentrations of vitamin E in annatto supplements is that vitamin E is believed to have anti-aging properties. By taking annatto supplements, you might be able to slow down your aging process.
• The chemical properties of the type of vitamin E found naturally in annatto supplements also affect your blood sugar levels. It has the capability of raising and lowering blood sugar levels depending on an individual’s metabolism of glucose.
• An additional benefit to taking annatto supplements is that it may lower your blood pressure due to the vitamin E. Lower blood pressure reduces the risks of heart attack and stroke.
• The vitamin E in annatto supplements also works to fight inflammation in the body. Annatto supplements can be quite beneficial when it comes to exercise as it naturally reduces inflammation after exertion.
• Not only do annatto supplements help with muscles and soft tissues, but also with eye diseases like macular degeneration which are caused by inflammation.

Lastly, vitamin E has shown to have cancer fighting properties. Since annatto supplements contain high concentrations of vitamin E, taking annatto supplements may help you fight off breast cancer and pancreatic cancer.

Side Effects Associated With Taking Annatto Supplements

Annatto has been studied for its side effects. In fact, annato has been linked to food allergies when used as a natural coloring.

The natural food coloring produced from annatto is usually yellow, orange, or red and can be found in cheese, meats, rice, butter, margarine, candy, popcorn, and ice cream. It will be listed under ingredients as either annatto or dye E160b.

According to About.com, an allergy to annatto may manifest as the skin becoming red, itchy, or flushed. Other signs of an allergic reaction to annatto include difficulty breathing, coughing, and runny nose.

An intolerance to annatto can be determined if there is stomach discomfort, nausea, or diarrhea. Sensitivities to food colorings like annatto can affect an individual’s behavior or mood.

Food sensitivities to annatto can also result in migraines, aches and pains in the body, or lethargy. Common side effects of taking annatto supplements include bloating, gas, and occasional diarrhea.

Recommended Dosage of Annatto

Be sure and consult with a medical professional before beginning any supplement use. Although each manufacturer varies in their recommendation of annatto supplements, 100 milligrams daily is the average recommended dose.

You should not take vitamin E within two hours of taking annatto supplements. Do not take annatto supplements with high blood pressure medicine as it can alter the effects of the prescription.

It is also recommended to discontinue use of annatto supplements two weeks prior to surgery.

Annatto and the Food and Drug Administration

Since 1963, the Food and Drug Administration has considered annatto to be a safe food colorant as long as it is used within the Food and Drug Administration’s guidelines.

The Food and Drug Administration does have annatto supplements listed on its approved supplement list dating as far back as 1994. The Food and Drug Administration only approves supplements when the manufacturer labels the supplement in accordance to FDA rules and regulations.

You can find and compare annatto supplements by using the free supplement finder now!