The Power of Choline - Unveiling the Health Benefits & Impacts

Choline is like the hero of foetal development and brain function. Not only does this little gem keep your nervous system, mitochondria, and cardiovascular system in check, but it also has a hand in metabolism and DNA synthesis. Talk about a multitasker! And guess what? Eggs, those delectable orbs full of Choline goodness, have some superpowers of their own. Recent research has revealed that they possess anti-inflammatory properties, making them a knight in shining armour for those with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Take that, inflammation! Now, here's a fun fact: your liver is a bit of a magician and can produce a small amount of Choline on its own. But don't rest on the laurels of your liver. You need to get more Choline from your diet. The recommended daily intake is around 550 milligrams, but unfortunately, most people fall far short of this mark. We're talking about a whopping 90% of the U.S. population wandering around in a Choline-deficient haze.

But fear not, for studies have bestowed upon us a fountain of Choline-infused wonders. Higher Choline intake has been linked to a lowered risk of heart disease as well as a charming 24% decreased risk of breast cancer, and the prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Let's pause for a moment to appreciate the importance of preventing NAFLD, the poster child for liver diseases that's been spreading like wildfire among children these days. Choline deficiency might be one of the culprits behind this alarming trend. If you don't have enough Choline in your life, any sneaky little fat molecule that decides to visit your liver, be it from a greasy cheeseburger or a boozy night out, will happily settle down and create a fatty liver abode.

So, don't skimp on Choline. Embrace the power-packed eggs, revel in the joys of a well-nourished brain, and let your mitochondria party like there's no tomorrow. And maybe, just maybe, we can put an end to the Choline deficiency epidemic one witty article at a time. Choline, found in ample amounts in organic, pastured egg yolks, was first discovered in 1862. It was officially recognised as an essential nutrient for human health by the Institute of Medicine in 1998. Since then, we’ve learned that Choline has a long list of health benefits. For example, it’s required for:

• Healthy Foetal Development
• Mitochondrial Function
• DNA Synthesis
• Cardiovascular Health
• Nervous System Health - Choline plays a crucial role in the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that contributes to the maintenance of optimal muscle function, a healthy heart, and optimal memory performance
• Optimal Brain Function, Memory & Cognition
• Cell Structure - Lecithin, also known as phosphatidylcholine, is an essential component of cell membranes. Its synthesis in the body necessitates the presence of Choline
• Metabolism
• Liver Health - Adequate Choline is essential for transporting cholesterol from the liver. Insufficient Choline levels may lead to the accumulation of excessive fat and cholesterol
• Methylation Reaction

Egg-Cellent News - Eggs Combat Inflammation & Insulin Resistance

In the hip and happening year of 2020, some egg-citing research discovered that Choline is not just your run-of-the-mill nutrient. Oh no, it's got superpowers! This superhero of a compound has the ability to fight inflammation, making it a real game-changer for those dealing with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. But here's the plot twist: while a Choline supplement is pretty good at this anti-inflammatory stuff, eggs take the crown and sport the superhero cape. The egg-cellent researchers explain it like this: "Metabolic syndrome is all about inflammation and insulin resistance, the bad guys that increase the risk of heart disease. Eggs, not just chock-full of Choline, but also a bunch of other nutrients like carotenoids and fat-soluble vitamins, seem to be our heroes in this battle. The egg's phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the main source of Choline in the good old American diet. So, we wanted to see how two sources of Choline, eggs with their PC powers and a Choline supplement called Choline bitartrate (CB), would affect plasma lipids, glucose, insulin resistance, and inflammatory biomarkers."

To get to the bottom of this Choline mystery, the researchers recruited twenty-three subjects flipping their way through metabolic syndrome. After a brief two-week break from Choline goodness, they were divided into two groups: the egg-eaters and the Choline-chuggers. The eggcellent group got to devour three eggs per day, while the other group had the pleasure of consuming 400 mg of Choline bitartrate daily, for a whopping four weeks. Both the eggheads and the Choline lovers experienced a drop in their interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels - that means less inflammation. But only those feasting on eggs had an additional perk - lower C-reactive protein, insulin, and insulin resistance compared to when they started. The Choline supplement group missed out on these extra benefits.

After a brief pause to digest the results, the subjects switched sides. The eggheads now chugged down the Choline boosters, while the choline gang filled up on eggs. This back-and-forth allowed the researchers to unravel some egg-tra interesting findings. The eggheads boasted higher levels of vitamin E and selenium, adding more firepower to their arsenal. However, there were no significant changes in cholesterol levels, triglycerides, or glucose for either group when they hopped between the egg and Choline trains. Here's the egg-citing part: both forms of Choline managed to rain on inflammation's parade, lowering those IL-6 levels. But the eggs took it up a notch, also giving inflammation's buddy, C-reactive protein, a serious beat-down. Plus, they kicked insulin and insulin resistance to the curb. Talk about a knockout victory!

The researchers were left with no choice but to declare, "In the MetS corner, three eggs a day won't raise your plasma LDL cholesterol, and they bring some extra disease-fighting punch. The choline supplement, well, it just couldn't compete, maybe 'cause eggs have other mighty antioxidants in their corner." And so, the egg emerged as the true hero of this Choline tale, leaving the Choline supplement wandering about, wondering why it just couldn't crack it. Bravo, eggs, you've earned your rightful place on the breakfast throne!

Unlock the Mighty Power of Egg Yolks - Your Superfood Secret!

I am a firm believer in the unparalleled nutritional potency of egg yolks. They're like the Taylor Swift of the food world, strutting around with confidence and packing a serious punch. But wait till you meet their partner in crime, the organ meats. They're like the Mick Jagger of the culinary world, eccentric and full of surprises. Together, they make a dynamic duo that can do wonders for your body. Now, let me let you in on a little secret: I consume three eggs, not once, but twice a day, totalling a daring six eggs per day. And why, you ask? Well, one of the main reasons is to ensure I get enough Choline. You see, Choline is like the VIP backstage pass to optimum health, and these eggs are my golden ticket.

But hold on, I have some egg-splaining to do. I know that separating the yolks from the whites is the way to go. I only indulge in one egg white per day because, let's face it, it has a bit of a complicated relationship with a certain compound called avidin. This avidin has a knack for latching onto biotin, causing quite the commotion if left uncooked. So, I do everyone a favour and cook it up to keep things civil. Now, here's where things get intriguing. Egg whites, although seemingly innocent, pack a punch of their own. They're loaded with tryptophan, which acts as a precursor to serotonin. And while serotonin is often hailed as the mood-booster we all love, too much of it can wreak havoc on your precious body. So, we need to reign in its powers. But let's not forget the star of the show – the yolk. Oh, what a superstar it is! It's like the Rolling Stones of the egg world, timeless and full of flavour. This golden gem is where the real magic happens. It houses all those essential nutrients, including those delightful healthy fats that keep us going strong.

But hold your horses. Before you rush off to the nearest supermarket to grab a carton of eggs, let me drop some knowledge on you. The nutritional quality of these eggs relies heavily on the diet of the chickens. Yep, those clucking little creatures play a crucial role in this culinary tale. You'll want to be mindful of where your eggs come from. You wouldn't want them lacking in that goodness you crave. Now, you know I'm all about taking things to the next level, so hold on tight for this mind-blowing revelation. I feed my chickens a special diet, my secret recipe if you will. And guess what? It results in egg yolks that have a staggering 75% lower linoleic acid (LA) content than those conventional eggs you find on the shelves. Oh, the lengths I go to for the sake of health!

But be warned, you mustn't go overboard. Limit your daily intake of LA to a mere 5 grams (5,000 mg) – quite the stringent cap, isn't it? Sadly, in the land of the free and home of the brave, virtually all chicken eggs will push you past that limit if you're gobbling up six a day like yours truly. Even those supposedly superior pasture-raised organic chickens can't escape the clutches of grains high in LA. So, brace yourself before you embark on this yolky adventure. Choose your eggs wisely, for not all eggs are created equal. And remember, in the world of egg yolks and organ meats, the stakes are high, the nutrients are abundant, and the chicken's diet holds the key to a healthier you.

Optimise Your Chickens' Diet for Ultimate LA Reduction

Prepare yourselves, poultry enthusiasts, for I shall regale you with a tale of the most discerning chicken growers known to humankind. These fine feathered aficionados possess the secret to chicken nirvana, feeding their cluckers a diet so low in LA (Lamest Appellations) that it would make your average chicken farmer hang their head in shame. Yes, it was none other than the wise Ashley Armstrong, a farmer whose regenerative skills are renowned across the lands, who enlightened me on this esoteric poultry practice. This visionary pioneer is taking the chicken world by storm, optimising the feed for her fowl in such a way that even their ancient ancestors would give a clucky nod of approval. How does she do it, you ask? Let the anticipation build, for I shall soon interview this virtuosic farmer and reveal her secrets.

But wait, there's more! Not only is Ashley a master of chicken cuisine, but she also worships at the altar of biology and bio-energetic medicine, paying tribute to the sacred teachings of Ray Peat. Picture the symphony of intellect and innovation that will emanate from our impending interview. It shall be a grand feast for the mind! Now, bear in mind, Ashley's flock may be small, but it is mighty, consisting of only a few thousand cluckers. Yet fear not, for she harbours dreams of creating a nationwide network that will ensure this superior breed of eggs reaches every doorstep. Ah, but these eggs, are not for the faint of wallet. No, they come with a price tag that could make even the most extravagant of chickens blush. It's a princely sum indeed, with shipping costs amounting to a staggering $20 for a dozen of these esteemed ovoid marvels. But mark my words! They are worth every precious penny, for their quality is simply unparalleled.

But wait, we're not done yet! Not only is Ashley a master of chicken cuisine, but she also worships at the altar of biology and bio-energetic medicine, paying tribute to the sacred teachings of Ray Peat. Picture the symphony of intellect and innovation that will emanate from our impending interview. It shall be a grand feast for the mind! Now, bear in mind, Ashley's flock may be small, but it is mighty, consisting of only a few thousand cluckers. Yet fear not, for she harbours dreams of creating a nationwide network that will ensure this superior breed of eggs reaches every doorstep. Ah, but these eggs, are not for the faint of wallet. No, they come with a price tag that could make even the most extravagant of chickens blush. It's a princely sum indeed, with shipping costs amounting to a staggering $20 for a dozen of these esteemed ovoid marvels. But mark my words! They are worth every precious penny, for their quality is simply unparalleled.

Of course, if you truly wish to ascend to poultry paradise without denting your pocketbook, may I suggest the path of self-sufficiency? That's right, raise your own clan of chickens, much like I do, and revel in the sustenance of the gods without the hefty price tag. Feast upon the highest quality food this planet has to offer while smugly observing the financial distress of your less enlightened comrades. Ah, the joys of self-reliance! Now, I must indulge your curiosity and divulge the tantalising tidbits Ashley will surely bestow upon us during our upcoming interview. Brace yourselves, for I am about to unravel the magical recipe behind this culinary alchemy. Pay close attention, for there are but three ingredients to this enchanting feast. First and foremost, we have the humble white rice. Oh, let us not be tricked by the deceitful charms of brown rice, for it is a weaver of sinister spells, catalysing endotoxin production in our little cluckers' guts. White rice, however, shall guide our feathered friends to gastrointestinal bliss. But that's not all. Prepare yourselves for the splendour of sprouted split peas, bathed in a 12-day soaking ritual, as the chicken gods intended. The rhythm of rinsing them every 12 hours shall cleanse these delightful legumes until they reach their pressure-cooked destiny, transforming into tender morsels of sprouted perfection. Oh, but feast your imagination upon this feast!

Now, fellow connoisseurs of chicken excellence, gather 'round, for the final act in this culinary spectacle: barley. Yes, dear readers, the aromatic barley shall grace the birds' feed, bringing forth a symphony of flavours that Barnyard Mozart himself would raise a wing in approval of. To top it all off, a sprinkle of calcium powder, minerals, and my very own desiccated liver powder shall elevate this gastronomic experience to celestial heights. So, there you have it, a glimpse into the tantalising world of the chicken growers who dwell on the cutting edge of clucking cuisine. May the wisdom of Ashley Armstrong be forever immortalised as we venture forth into this poultry paradise.

Is Choline Deficiency Fuelling NAFLD?

Choline, you sly little nutrient! Turns out, this sneaky little compound is like the secret weapon against various health issues. Studies have shown that higher Choline intake can give you a reduced risk of heart disease and breast cancer, not to mention the prevention of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Basically, Choline is like the superhero you never knew you needed. Let's talk about fatty liver, shall we? Choline plays a major role in keeping this terrible condition at bay. It boosts the production of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) particles, which are like little fat taxis, taking that unwanted fat out of your liver. Choline also carries cholesterol away from your liver, preventing the buildup of both fat and cholesterol. It's basically the liver's personal driving instructor, making sure things run smoothly. But wait, there's more! Choline is not just a one-trick pony. It's also involved in some mind-blowing epigenetic mechanisms that help maintain a healthy liver. It's like Choline is doing a secret dance with your liver cells, making sure they stay in tip-top shape. No wonder NAFLD has become such a common liver disease in the U.S., especially among children. Choline deficiency is like the evil mastermind behind it all, driving the trend and making things worse.

You see, without enough Choline, your liver starts acting like a hoarder, accumulating all that fat. And if that's not bad enough, those seed oils with their polyunsaturated fats just add fuel to the inflammation fire. It's like pouring gasoline on a burning liver. Don't do it! So, here's the deal. Choline is essential for producing a phospholipid called phosphatidylcholine (PC). And this PC is a crucial component of those VLDL particles we talked about earlier. They're like the FedEx of fats, delivering them out of our livers and into the bloodstream. But if you're low on Choline and methionine, another amino acid, it's like the FedEx trucks broke down and the fats are stuck in your liver, causing all sorts of trouble. It's a real mess! So, let's give Choline the appreciation it deserves. It's like the unsung hero of liver health, fighting against the accumulation of fat, cholesterol, and inflammation. Remember, if you want your liver to stay fabulous, make sure to get enough Choline in your diet. Cheers to Choline, the liver's secret weapon!

Preventing Neurodegenerative Diseases with the Power of Choline

Choline also aids protect against neurodegenerative brain ailments such as Alzheimer's, by:

• Unlocking the secret to preserving your precious brain cells lies in the art of reducing that pesky homocysteine level. It's no secret this ornery amino acid is notorious for causing neurodegeneration and teaming up with those relentless amyloid plaques that scream Alzheimer's! But fear not, for Choline swoops in like a caped crusader, transforming homocysteine into the glorious methionine, bringing with it a plethora of delightful benefits for your grey matter.
• Brains are like fancy hotels, with microglia cells playing the role of the dedicated cleaning crew. These microscopic heroes swoop in to clear away any debris or unwanted junk, ensuring your brain stays spick and span. However, in the case of Alzheimer's, these over-enthusiastic microglia tend to hit the snooze button, causing mayhem by unleashing a wild inflammation party in the brain. This unruly bash leads to the untimely demise of innocent neurons. Cue the entrance of Choline, the cool and collected bouncer of the brain. This suave molecule knows how to keep things under control. By dialling down the activation of those hyperactive microglia, Choline becomes the ultimate bodyguard for Alzheimer's patients, shielding their precious brains from further damage. It's like having a brain VIP pass that guarantees protection from the chaos unfolding within. So, thanks to Choline, these Alzheimer's patients can finally breathe a sigh of relief, knowing their brains are in good hands and can continue to function with finesse.

Did you know that animal research has uncovered a fascinating tidbit? It turns out that loading up on Choline during pregnancy doesn't just benefit the immediate bundle of joy, but it also has some funky multigenerational effects! Yep, you heard that right. We're talking about a preventive measure against neurodegenerative diseases for your offspring. You can practically ensure a lineage of brainy, sharp-as-a-tack progeny. So, to all the moms-to-be out there, be sure to amp up your Choline intake. It's a no-brainer!

More Choline is Needed for Most People

You know, believe it or not, our liver may show off some fancy Choline production skills, but the truth is, most of this nutrient is like a VIP that can only enter through the exclusive dietary entrance. They say we should aim for a cool 550 milligrams of Choline a day, but let's face it, most of us are missing the VIP party. Not me though, oh no! My daily egg extravaganza gifts me with a whopping 800 milligrams of Choline. Talk about a Choline champ! But hey, hold your horses, because here's a shocking revelation: turns out, 90% of the good ol' U.S. of A. might just be Choline-challenged. Yeah, you heard me right. We're all cruising on the Choline deficiency express. And let me tell you, that's not a ride you want to be on. Low levels of this stuff can lead to all sorts of problems like memory meltdowns, energy slumps, and the dreaded brain fog that just won't quit.

Now, pay attention, 'cause I'm about to drop some knowledge on you. There are some unlucky individuals who are particularly at risk for this Choline drought. We're talking about those unlucky folks who are running on low reserves. The ones who need that Choline influx like a thirsty traveller needs a water fountain in the desert. Yeah, it's rough out there for them. So, who's on this exclusive list, you ask? Well, buckle up, 'cause here we go: pregnant women, breastfeeding moms, endurance athletes, strict vegetarians, and those who have trouble breaking down fats in their bodies. These are the brave souls who need to keep an extra eye on their Choline levels. So, let's all raise a toast to the Choline warriors out there and make sure we don't leave them stranded on the deficiency island. Cheers!

Pregnant Mothers – Choline is like the unassuming superstar that plays a crucial role in our neural tube closure, brain development, and even our vision! Bet you didn't see that one coming. Did you? Turns out, all you mamas out there who are getting your fair share of Choline are secretly blessing your little ones with a lifetime membership to the Memory Enhancement Club. How, you ask? Well, it's all thanks to the magic happening in the hippocampus, the memory centre of their tiny growing brains. Those mighty hippocampi will be forever grateful for the Choline boost! Now, hold on a second, because it's not just about memory-enhancing powers. Choline deficiency comes with a bunch of unwanted consequences for all you expectant moms out there. Picture this: premature birth, low birth weight, and even the dreaded preeclampsia. Yikes! Who would've thought that such a tiny nutrient could wreak such havoc? So, ladies, let's not mess around when it comes to Choline. Your little bundle of joy's future memory and health depend on it!

Athletes - Ready, set, sweat! When you hit the gym for that gruelling endurance exercise session, your body knows it's time to play hardball. But did you know that all those intense workouts can actually deplete your Choline levels? Well, fear not, because we've got a little secret up our sleeve – Choline supplementation! Before you go jumping to conclusions, let me enlighten you on the triumphs of Choline. Not only does it give you a leg up when it comes to severe physical stress, but it also adds a sprinkle of wonders to your workout routine. It's like having your very own cheerleader, shouting "You got this, champ!" from the side-lines. Now, picture this: choline supplementation swooshes in, like a superhero with a utility belt packed full of advantages. It boosts your endurance, keeps your energy levels soaring, and dramatically reduces the chances of you feeling like a deflated balloon after an intense workout. Suddenly, the finish line seems closer than ever before! But wait, there's more! Have you been longing for that marvellous summer body? Well, guess what? Choline supplementation might just be your secret weapon. We're talking about reducing body mass without any pesky side effects. It's like having your cake and eating it too – except in this case, the "cake" is a lean, fit physique that turns heads wherever you go. So, next time you're hitting those endurance exercises, don't forget to bring along your trusty sidekick – Choline supplementation. It's the key to conquering your physical limits while looking fierce and fabulous. Who said workouts couldn't be a little witty and whimsical? Now, go out there and show the world what you're made of!

Heavy Drinkers - Raise your glasses and listen up, mates! It's time for a witty cautionary tale about the consequences of excessive alcohol consumption. Brace yourselves because here's the scoop: drowning your sorrows in booze can lead to a serious craving for Choline and put you at risk of deficiency. Now, picture this: You and your merry band of misfits are out on the town, painting it red with every sip of that firewater. But little do you know, behind the scenes, your body is pulling off some wild acrobatics. The more you imbibe, the more your Choline levels plummet, and the higher your chances soar of experiencing a deficiency. It's like a topsy-turvy circus where the clowns are your choline-deprived brain cells. Yikes! So, what's the deal with this Choline stuff? Well, think of it as fuel for your brain, a VIP pass to cognitive function and memory retention. It's the unsung hero responsible for keeping your brain in tip-top shape, keeping those brainy synapses firing like there's no tomorrow. But alas, alcohol swoops in like a crafty magician, stealing your Choline reserves and leaving you yearning for more. Now, I won't go all Dr. Jekyll on you, lecturing about the dangers of overindulgence. We all know a good time is essential, and hey, a glass of liquid courage never hurt anyone. But when your alcohol intake reaches the "uh-oh" zone, and your Choline levels start screaming for mercy, it's time to reassess your choices. Here's a cheeky suggestion: why not indulge in some Choline-rich foods to keep your brain cells singing in sweet harmony? Eggs, broccoli, liver, and peanuts are like the Avengers of Choline, marching in to save the day. Just imagine your brain cells throwing a raging party with these nutrient powerhouses. Talk about a wild night!

Vegans - Oh, the irony! This particular demographic seems to have a knack for defying common sense and steering clear of the very Choline-rich foods that could save their nutritional day. Seriously, we're talking about eggs, organ meats, and beef here! If you're a member of this group, you might as well be dodging the vitamins and minerals like they're grenades!

Listen up! When it comes to your dietary needs, it’s important to remember that everyone’s requirements are as unique as a snowflake. Your overall diet, age, ethnicity, and even your genetic makeup can all play a role in what you need. It’s like a wild rollercoaster ride, except instead of being thrilled, you're just trying to figure out how much Choline you need. Now, there’s this fancy paper that tells us that if you happen to have one of those oh-so-common genetic polymorphisms in your Choline metabolism genes, well, buckle up because you could be cruising for some hepatic dysfunction when you’re deprived of Choline. Talk about being genetically predisposed to trouble! But that’s not all! Some brave men out there apparently decided to test the limits by chowing down a measly 550 mg of Choline per day. Guess what? It wasn’t enough! Nope, they still ended up with organ dysfunction. Who would have thought that some guys need more than a sprinkle of Choline to keep their organs in check?

And ladies, listen up too, because this one’s for you. Postmenopausal women, bless their souls, are more prone to showing signs of organ dysfunction if you strip them of adequate Choline for a tiny span of under six weeks. Meanwhile, the premenopausal ladies seem to handle it a little better. Hormones, am I right? Now, if you’re part of the unlucky crew with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), you better keep a sharp eye on your Choline intake. Some studious folks discovered that low Choline levels can amp up your suffering, causing all sorts of fun things like fibrosis. Who needs smooth tissues when you can have some lovely thickened and scarred connective tissue, right? But hey, let’s not go overboard with our Choline party, people. The upper limit is 3.5 grams (that’s a whopping 3,500 mg) per day. Yeah, once you cross that line, you might start experiencing side effects that are as delightful as a rollercoaster ride gone wrong. Picture low blood pressure, sweating, uncontrollable diarrhoea, and oh, the pièce de résistance: a fishy body odour. Talk about making a grand entrance! So, remember to keep your choline levels in check. And don't go overboard, unless you want to smell like a fish market and take a wild ride on the porcelain throne. Stay curious and keep those organs happy!

Healthy Choline Sources

When it comes to getting your daily dose of Choline, eggs are the real OG. These humble little orbs contain a whopping 125 mg of Choline, which is about 23% of what your body craves. Talk about an overachiever! They're practically the superhero of Choline sources in the American diet. But if eggs think they're unbeatable, they better think again because here comes grass-fed beef liver, strutting its stuff with a jaw-dropping 430 mg of Choline per 100-gram serving. Now that's some serious Choline power! It's like the beef liver is shouting, "Move over, eggs! I'm the real Choline champ in town!" Of course, let's not overlook the other worthy contenders in the Choline arena. We've got some impressive players like shrimp, fish, mushrooms, krill oil, raw milk and poultry, all packing a decent amount of Choline goodness. These guys may not steal the spotlight like eggs and beef liver, but they sure know how to hold their own in the choline game. So, whether you prefer your Choline in the form of a sunny-side-up egg or a sizzling beef liver, just remember that these goodies are the MVPs of Choline sources. Bon appétit, Choline lovers! Here you can order your own Choline Citrate.

References

• Brief History of Choline
• Choline: an essential nutrient for public health
• Choline Intake as Supplement or as a Component of Eggs Increases Plasma Choline and Reduces Interleukin-6 without Modifying Plasma Cholesterol in Participants with Metabolic Syndrome
• Meet Sarah and Ashley Armstrong
• Sex and menopausal status influence human dietary requirements for the nutrient choline
• Effect of Choline Supplementation on Rapid Weight Loss and Biochemical Variables Among Female Taekwondo and Judo Athletes