Anti-Aging Archives - Amazing Health Advances

5 Steps to Keeping the Aging Voice Healthy

The AHA! Team — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:34:46 +0000

Morgan deBlecourt via Duke Health – As we get older, gradual voice changes, such as hoarseness or vocal weakness, can take a toll on our ability to communicate. But this doesn’t have to be an inevitable part of aging. Here are a few simple suggestions to help keep your voice healthy and strong for years to come. Your Voice Matters Difficulty communicating can lead to social withdrawal and even depression. While most people understand that hearing loss is an important consideration as we age, it’s just as critical to evaluate and treat voice problems related to getting older. Vocal fold atrophy (or “thinning”), diminished lung power, and overall health decline can contribute to aging voice problems, also known as presbyphonia or presbylaryngis. Duke Health speech pathologist Cristen Paige explains how you can keep your voice in tiptop shape. 1. Be Aware Knowledge is power. Even if you haven’t begun experiencing voice changes, knowing the signs can help you nip them in the bud if they begin. These include being asked to repeat yourself more often, having to strain your voice to be heard, or feeling like you are running out of air as you talk. Being proactive can help you keep your voice stronger in the long run. 2. Maintain Your Overall Health You may be surprised to learn that conditions that affect breathing, like asthma, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) can affect your voice. Breath is what powers your voice, so maintaining good lung function is vital to keeping your voice strong. Keeping the rest of your body in shape and moving is also important for the voice. Regular exercise helps increase overall stamina, build muscle tone, and improve posture — all of which contribute to a healthier voice. 3. Practice Good Vocal Hygiene As you can imagine, how you treat your throat and larynx (voice box) affects your voice. The larynx should stay moist and flexible, so drink six to eight glasses of water a day. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which dry out your throat. Incorporate “wet snacks — things like grapes, melons, cucumbers — that have a lot of water content,” said Paige. Use a humidifier at home to keep the air moist. And, of course, don’t smoke! 4. Use It or “Lose It” If you are retired or living alone, you may be talking less. But just like the rest of the body, the voice needs exercise to keep it in good shape. Read aloud, talk to pets, join a choir, or sing in the shower. Look for social opportunities and participate in conversation. 5. Voice Therapy Many older adults with voice problems can benefit from professional help. A comprehensive voice evaluation can rule out any other causes for voice issues (like tumors or lesions). Your ENT voice specialist may suggest voice therapy, which is like physical therapy for the voice to improve its function, quality, and stamina. Voice therapy is typically covered by insurance, but check with your provider to confirm. To read the original article click here.

The post 5 Steps to Keeping the Aging Voice Healthy appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

The Most Important Medical Test You Can Have

The AHA! Team — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 05:18:40 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – I get a lot of mail from readers like you who tell me they’re scheduled to see their doctor for an annual checkup. And they want to know… What is the number-one anti-aging test they should ask their physician to order? It’s an important question. But sadly, most conventionally trained doctors will NEVER order the test I recommend… You see, with my patients, I want to know what’s going on at the cellular level. And that’s why I think it’s essential to have a test that measures your telomeres. Lengthening your telomeres is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from the diseases we commonly associate with aging. Diseases like Alzheimer’s… heart disease… diabetes… obesity… and cancer. The minute I learned about telomeres — and activating the telomerase enzyme that maintains telomere length — I knew it would change lives. And it has. By helping my patients keep their telomeres long, they’ve seen incredible results. They’ve experienced benefits like having sharper memory, more energy, perfect blood sugar, and healthy hearts. In other words, they’ve extended their health span, so they’re living younger – longer. Yet, the medical establishment continues to look the other way. Instead of acknowledging this discovery, they’re stuck on turning telomere technology into another synthetic drug for Big Pharma. Why? Because that’s where the big money is. And that’s their primary goal…to profit from your health challenges. The First REAL Anti-Aging Solution Telomeres are the little caps on the end of each strand of your DNA that control how your cells age. When you are young, your telomeres are long. But every time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. Over time, your telomeres get so short they can’t protect your DNA as effectively. When a cell divides, new cells are defective. You begin to develop the signs and diseases of old age. And you dramatically increase your risk of serious diseases. But regrowing telomeres has the opposite effect. Supporting your telomeres is the first REAL solution to aging itself. In fact: People with the longest telomeres have a 54% lower risk of heart disease1 Longer telomeres protect the brain from aging and dementia2 People with longer telomeres are happier and have a better outlook on life3 Those with longer telomeres have an immune age that’s 20 years younger4 Increasing telomere length helps fight against almost all diseases of aging5 Lengthening telomeres increases lifespan by an average of five years6 I believe telomeres are the biggest medical breakthrough in my lifetime. As a pioneer in telomere science, I’ve been helping my patients protect and lengthen their telomeres for decades. I do this by helping them activate telomerase naturally. When you turn telomerase on, your telomeres gradually get longer. Your body starts creating younger cells. And by activating telomerase, you can improve and support almost every organ in your body. You can recharge your sexual desire, breathe easier, look younger and feel younger. In other words, you can reverse the aging process – and eliminate your risk for the so-called diseases of aging. I think this topic is so important I used it to wrap up my Palm Beach Anti-Aging Summit at the beautiful and historic Mar-a-Lago estate. Today, I want to share that talk with you. To watch, click this link. If you’re interested in having your telomeres tested – so you can start on the path to REAL anti-aging – call my clinic at 561-784-7852. My friendly staff will be happy to answer your questions and set you up with the most important medical test you can have. 3 Simple Steps To Make Your Telomeres Biologically Younger In the meantime, there are steps you can take right now to make your telomeres biologically younger. Here’s what I tell my patients… Stop eating processed foods. A new study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that three or more servings of “ultra-processed foods” doubled your risk of shortened telomeres.Typical processed foods include a vast array of convenience items, such as deli meats; instant soups and noodles; packaged bread; snack items; soda and energy drinks; sweetened yogurt; and breakfast cereals — even those marked “healthy.” Boost vitamin C intake. Studies confirm that raising the level of vitamin C in the cells slows down the shortening of telomeres by up to 62%.7,8 In another study, vitamin C slowed telomere shortening while increasing cellular lifespan.9But be forewarned. You’d be lucky to absorb more than 500 mg of standard vitamin C supplements in a single day. That’s why I recommend a liposomal-encapsulated ascorbic acid. Wrapping vitamin C in a tiny, fatty bubble more than doubles its absorption.10 This delivery method enables you to take 5,000 to 8,000 mg of vitamin C every day. Lower your homocysteine. This amino acid triples the speed at which your telomeres shorten. Here’s what I use with my patients (amounts are daily) to lower homocysteine: Vitamin B12 – 500 mcg Folic acid – 800 mcg Vitamin B6 – 25 mg Riboflavin (B2) – 25 mg TMG (Trimethylglycine) – 500 mg To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: Haycock P, et al. “Leucocyte telomere length and risk of cardiovascular disease: systematic review and meta-analysis.” BMJ. 2014;349:g4227. Yaffe K, et al. “Telomere length and cognitive function in community-dwelling elders: findings from the Health ABC Study.” Neurobiol Aging. 2011;32(11):2055-60. Uchino B, et. al. “Social relationships and health: is feeling positive, negative, or both (ambivalent) about your social ties related to telomeres?” Health Psychol. 2012;31(6):789-96. Harley C, et al. “A natural product telomerase activator as part of a health maintenance program.” Rej Res. 2011. Gomez D, et al. “Telomere structure and telomerase in health and disease (review).” Int J Oncol. 2012;41(5):1561-9. Cawthon RM, et al. “Association between telomere length in blood and mortality in people aged 60 years or older.” Lancet. 2003; 361: 393-395. Furumoto K. et al. “Age-dependent telomere shortening is slowed down by enrichment of intracellular vitamin C via suppression of oxidative stress.” Life Science. 1998;6(11): 935-48. Shen J, et al. “Telomere length, oxidative damage, antioxidants and breast cancer risk.” Int J Cancer. 2009 Apr 1; 124(7):1637-43. Xu Q, et al. “Multivitamin use and telomere length in women.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2009 Jun;89(6):1721-2. Prantl L, et al. Enhanced resorption of liposomal packed vitamin c monitored by ultrasound.” J Clin Med. 2020 Jun; 9(6): 1616. Richards J, et al. “Homocysteine levels and leukocyte telomere length.” Atherosclerosis. 2008 Feb 14. To read the original article click here.

The post The Most Important Medical Test You Can Have appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Study Suggests Ergothioneine in Mushrooms Can Help Extend Your Lifespan

The AHA! Team — Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:26:55 +0000

Zoey Sky via Natural News – Mushrooms are a great addition to many savory dishes. Research suggests the benefits offered by mushrooms go beyond the kitchen. Several studies have found that a compound in mushrooms can help extend the human lifespan. One recent study looked into the potential benefits of fungi-derived bioactive compounds on lifespan and health span. The study also highlighted the importance of finding interventions to minimize age-related diseases. Another study published in the Nutrition Journal investigated the health benefits of mushrooms. Researchers found that mushroom consumption is linked to a longer lifespan. They credited this benefit to mushrooms’ high content of ergothioneine, an antioxidant amino acid found in fungi and bacteria. While conducting the study, researchers reviewed data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The 20-year prospective cohort study involved 15,000 participants. Results revealed that the people who included mushrooms in their diet had a 16 percent lower chance of early death. The researchers also discovered that consuming one serving of mushrooms per day instead of processed meat reduced the chances of dying prematurely from any cause by at least 35 percent. The research team explained that this benefit may be due to ergothioneine’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. They also suggested that ergothioneine’s anti-aging properties could stem from its ability to protect against telomere shortening. Research shows ergothioneine has protective effects on telomeres Telomeres are usually described as protective “caps” for chromosomes. These long strings of delicate, elaborately folded DNA act like the protective plastic tips on shoelaces that help prevent fraying and damage. Longer telomeres are associated with better cellular health and are also usually linked with longevity. But telomeres naturally shorten over time, which makes them less able to preserve the structure of chromosomes. Shorter telomeres are linked with aging and chronic degenerative disease. In a study with participants over 60, those with shorter telomeres were three times more likely to die of heart disease than those with longer telomeres. They were also at least eight times more likely to die from infections. In another preliminary study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements in 2022, a research team discovered that treating cells with ergothioneine for eight weeks alleviated telomere shortening from oxidative stress. They suggested that this can help potentially avoid mutations in DNA that could cause cancer. The researchers concluded that the results support “a potential role for ergothioneine in oxidative stress-related conditions and healthy aging.” Ergothioneine also supports longevity by helping to replenish and recycle glutathione, the body’s master antioxidant. Data also suggests that ergothioneine offers a valuable “trifecta” of anti-aging gifts: supporting longer telomeres, protecting DNA and recycling glutathione. Mushrooms can support optimal brain health In a separate study, scientists found that people over 60 were found to display lower levels of ergothioneine. They added that those over 60 with mild age-related cognitive impairment showed even sharper declines in this important amino acid. This is bad because ergothioneine, which helps protect brain cells from oxidative stress, is believed to help aging adults maintain healthy cognition and memory. Test tube and animal studies have indicated that ergothioneine may also help support memory by creating new neurons or brain cells. In a trial published in the Japanese Journal of Pharmacology, the research team gave both healthy adults and those with mild cognitive impairment a mushroom extract containing 5 mg of ergothioneine a day for 12 weeks. They found that the supplementation resulted in significant improvements in verbal memory, working memory and sustained attention for both the healthy and the mildly impaired volunteers. (Related: 6 Mushrooms you can eat to prevent cognitive impairment and reduce your dementia risk.) Aside from its anti-aging properties, ergothioneine also helps support a healthy immune system, promotes optimal cardiovascular function and supports healthy skin. Ergothioneine is even used in skincare serums and creams to reduce the appearance of fine lines and soothe redness and irritation. It is also used in products that help fight against damage and photoaging caused by ultraviolet radiation. Visit NaturalMedicine.news for more research about mushrooms and other superfoods. Watch the video below to learn about the health benefits of Organic Chaga Mushrooms. This video is from the Health Ranger Store channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: NaturalHealth365.com PubMed.NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here: https://www.naturalnews.com/2024-08-14-study-ergothioneine-mushrooms-help-extend-lifespan.html

The post Study Suggests Ergothioneine in Mushrooms Can Help Extend Your Lifespan appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Witch Hazel Uses for Skin, Hair & More

The AHA! Team — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:41:04 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Today, we have hundreds of different beauty products available to us — acne washes, toners, scrubs, etc. — but what did people use thousands of years ago before commercial chemicals existed to help heal their skin? When it comes to natural skin care, one time-honored medicinal plant is witch hazel, which Native Americans relied on for fighting swelling, sores and infections. There may be no plant more beneficial to your skin, as research showcases the many advantages witch hazel provides. What is witch hazel good for? Thanks to its astringent properties, it’s one of the most effective natural acne treatments known to man — and it’s even been shown to help protect against skin cancer. Other benefits include naturally reducing blisters, insect bites, poison ivy, inflammation, hemorrhoids, toothaches and much more. So if you’re looking for cleaner, healthier skin with the help from a natural product, look no further than witch hazel. What Is Witch Hazel? The witch hazel plant (which has the species name Hamamelis virginiana) is a type of plant native to North America and a member of the Hamamelidaceae plant family. Sometimes also called winterbloom, the bark and leaves of the witch hazel plant are used to make a skin-healing astringent. Does witch hazel kill germs? Yes, this multi-purpose product has many uses, including killing bacteria that can live within skin’s pores. The most popular use is for skin care, since its strong antioxidant and astringent properties can keep acne, wrinkles and more at bay. It can also help stop cellular damage that can lead to skin cancer, while preventing signs of aging and speeding up healing. When it comes to the products that you apply directly to your skin, you always want to treat the surface of your body how you would the inside: Avoid as many chemicals and toxins as possible. Witch hazel offers benefits over other beauty products because it’s completely natural and free of environmental pollutants, irritating ingredients, fake fragrances and other contaminants. How Witch Hazel Works How can witch hazel do so much? High levels of healing active ingredients reduce inflammation, cellular damage and swelling, while also soothing wounds. The bark, twigs and leaves of the plant are used to extract active constituents called polyphenols and tannins. They’re then added to either alcohol or water to make a concentrated product called witch hazel water, Hamamelis water or distilled witch hazel extract. Tannins are responsible for making witch hazel extract a natural astringent, since they remove excess oil from skin. This is the reason why witch hazel is one of the most popular natural acne treatments worldwide and is used in dozens of over-the-counter treatment gels, washes and lotions. Studies also show that tannins from witch hazel can be used to make plant-based antivirals, such as to fight the flu and other illnesses. In addition to tannins, witch hazel is high in compounds called “gallate esters,” which include proanthocyanidins that have antiviral effects, hydrolyzable tannins (galloylated sugars) and methyl gallate. Witch hazel extract is considered to be polyphenolic and has been shown to help inhibit cell proliferation in cancerous human cells. Studies show that it is capable of stopping mutated cell cycles and inducing apoptosis (death of dangerous cells). Because witch hazel is a natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, it’s effective as a “free radical scavenger.” This means it helps protect against DNA damage and tumor growth. Oxidative stress and free radical damage build up over time from exposure to things like UV light, pollution, a poor diet, stress and so on. Plants like witch hazel that are high in polyphenols are the same kind used to create anti-aging nutritional supplements that slow down disease development by protecting cells. Uses Witch hazel has been used for centuries to naturally help treat and prevent: acne skin sores bruises redness and swelling ingrown hairs psoriasis or eczema oily skin excess sweating varicose veins cracked or blistered skin insect bites poison ivy irritated scalp sunburn and melanoma razor burn (such as in a DIY aftershave) mucous membrane inflammation hemorrhoids allergic reactions Recent studies even show that the tannins found in witch hazel may exert a protective action against colon cancer cells. The skin is our largest and most vulnerable organ, so it could use all the support it can get. Skin is our natural barrier to the outside world and provides us with protection against UV radiation, chemicals in our food supply, bacteria and other germs, and environmental pollutants. All of the “stress” that our bodies deal with every day, both internally and externally, show up on our skin in the form of aging, puffiness, infections, inflammation and sensitivities. That’s why we rely on eating and using natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatories to help curb inflamed and diseased cells. Herbal plant therapies for skin disorders have been used for thousands of years, and today many traditional herbs are being reintroduced, studied extensively and experiencing a resurgence in popularity since many chemical treatments don’t always work or have harsh side effects. Benefits 1. Reduces Acne What does witch hazel do for acne? As a natural home remedy for acne, applying witch hazel to acne-prone skin can help slow down bacteria growth and decrease inflammation, redness, oiliness and bleeding. Can you clean your face with witch hazel? Yes, since it’s a natural cleanser, it’s capable of reducing bacteria growth on the skin and speeds up the time needed to heal infections or scabs. Another benefit for sensitive skin is that it reduces the look of pores (although no product can actually shrink pores) and helps stop excess oil production, sweating, and development of blackheads or whiteheads, which can contribute to breakouts and tempt you to pick at your skin. You can skip irritating acne products and turn to witch hazel to lower the severity of blemishes forming under the skin and prevent blackheads caused by dried sebum buildup in pores. How long does witch hazel take to clear acne? It depends on how severe someone’s acne is. It may take effect in just several days or take several weeks. Does witch hazel get rid of acne scars? It can help, due to its anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Applying some can help stop swelling and redness if you already picked at your acne. It can also curb signs of past irritations and deal with skin infections that may result from picking. 2. Fights Signs of Aging and Damage from Sun Exposure What does witch hazel do to your face? Does witch hazel fade dark spots? Can it tighten skin? If you’re looking for a natural way to firm up your skin and slow down signs of aging like scars, redness, discoloration, dryness and puffiness around the eyes, then look no further than witch hazel. It tightens skin and is protective against skin cancer, melanoma and other damage caused by UV light because of its protective polyphenols and tannin antioxidants. These inhibit the proliferation of melanoma cells and help protect healthy skin cells into older age. Use it to keep your skin free from irritating chemical products that can alter oil production and increase dryness. Witch hazel has been shown to help protect collagen and skin elasticity just as well as many commercial beauty products. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a great way to preserve skin’s elasticity, saving your complexion and helping you deal with the effects of environmental stress on your skin. And because using witch hazel for your pores helps them look smaller, this can make your skin appear more even. 3. Treats Insect Bites Many bug repellents, DIY bug sprays and commercial products used for treating insect bites contain witch hazel. Wondering how to get rid of mosquito bites? People turn to witch hazel to reduce the effects of bug bites, such as pain and swelling from stings, allergies and irritations. Certain studies have found that applying witch hazel cream to skin irritations can curb symptoms just as well as synthetic chemical creams, including dexpanthenol, which is often used to fight skin irritations in children. It can also be used to help speed up healing scabs or minor cuts because witch hazel extract contains isopropyl alcohol, which is another natural disinfecting ingredient that kills bacteria and helps prevent infections. 4. Cleanses Hair and Protect the Scalp To get rid of greasy hair, use witch hazel on your hair to help reduce oil buildup. This leaves your hair shinier, healthier and more volumized. It’s also great for removing hair odors, helping with an irritated scalp, or speeding up healing from any bites or acne at the base of the neck when you’re prone to sweating. One study conducted by the Center for Dermatology and Disease in Zurich, Switzerland, found that shampoo containing witch hazel extract helped soothe patients’ irritated scalps, redness, itching and inflammation. After testing the effects of witch hazel on 1,373 patients, a percentage of patients reported improvement in symptoms and better tolerance of other hair products. 5. Prevents Ingrown Hairs and Rashes After shaving, you can apply witch hazel to any part of the body to slow bleeding from nicks or cuts, prevent bacteria growth and infections within hair follicles, soothe razor burn, and prevent ingrown hairs from forming. Some people also like to use the toner along with other healing essential oils on skin after waxing to reduce pain, swelling and bleeding. 6. Stops Ear Infections from Developing Since witch hazel is an effective antibacterial, and “swimmer’s ear” or other ear infections are usually caused by bacterial infections, it’s a natural way to treat irritations within the ear canal. Witch hazel helps clear up bacteria overgrowth and infections within the ear; dry up oil, pus and excess sweat; break up wax; and even remove odor. To clean the outside of the ears, apply several drops to a swab and rub around the inside of the ears. 7. Soothes a Sore Throat Some people like sipping on witch hazel tea (not witch hazel water or a drink made with extract, which contains isopropyl alcohol) to soothe an irritated, infected or sore throat. The natural astringent properties make it beneficial for fighting illnesses that affect the throat, while its soothing properties lower pain and discomfort caused by coughs, strep throat, sore throat, sinus infections, tonsillitis or other throat problems. 8. Stops Pet Odor and Bug Bites Witch hazel can stop excess bacteria from forming on the surface of your pet’s skin, including in wounds or bites, which can lead to odor. It is non-irritating to pets, helps prevent them from getting bug bites by repelling mosquitoes and other insects, can slow down itching or bleeding, and helps cleanse their skin. 9. Treats Hemorrhoids Witch hazel also performs as a hemorrhoids home remedy. You can apply witch hazel water to the skin to help lower pain and inflammation caused by uncomfortable hemorrhoids. It’s useful for relieving itching, irritation, bleeding and burning from hemorrhoids as well. 10. Protects Your Mouth, Lips and Gums If you have blisters on your lips, inner cheeks or gums, turn to witch hazel to speed healing and get rid of pain and swelling. It’s safe to apply the extract to the inside of your mouth to slow down bleeding, blisters, sores, bad breath odors and infections of the gums, especially when combined with other healing oils like coconut oil or peppermint oil. Witch hazel also helps relieve pain from toothaches or teething in infants, prevent infection after oral surgery, and fight bleeding and inflammation from mouth sores. How to Use Look for witch hazel in pharmacies, health food stores, stores that sell beauty products or online. Extract derived from the witch hazel plant can be used topically (on the surface of the skin) or taken internally just like medicine. Depending on how you use witch hazel, it can help stop manage skin conditions like acne and skin redness or other types of issues like diarrhea, colds, mucus colitis, vomiting, coughing, the flu and more. The most...

The post Witch Hazel Uses for Skin, Hair & More appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Novel Lipids in Traditional Herbal Teas Unlock Potential Health Gains

The AHA! Team — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:12:59 +0000

Hokkaido University via News-Medical – The lipids in some herbal teas have been identified in detail for the first time, preparing the ground for investigating their contribution to the health benefits of the teas. Herbal teas are enjoyed worldwide, not only for their taste and refreshment but also for a wide range of reputed health benefits. But the potential significance of a category of compounds called lipids in the teas has been relatively unexplored. Researchers at Hokkaido University, led by Associate Professor Siddabasave Gowda and Professor Shu-Ping Hui of the Faculty of Health Sciences, have now identified 341 different molecular species from five categories of lipids in samples of four types of herbal tea. They published their results in the journal Food Chemistry. Lipids are a diverse collection of natural substances that share the property of being insoluble in water. They include all of the fats and oils that are common constituents of many foods, but they have generally not been examined as significant components of teas. The Hokkaido team selected four teas for their initial analysis: dokudami (Houttuynia cordata, fish mint), kumazasa (Sasa veitchii), sugina (Equisetum arvense, common horsetail) and yomogi (Artemisia princeps, Japanese mugwort). “These herbs are native to Japan and have been widely consumed as tea from ancient times due to their medicinal properties,” says Gowda. The medicinal benefits attributed to these and other herbal teas include antioxidant, antiglycation, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-allergic, anticarcinogenic, antithrombotic, vasodilatory, antimutagenic, and anti-aging effects. These herbs are native to Japan and have been widely consumed as tea from ancient times due to their medicinal properties The lipids in the teas were separated and identified by combining two modern analytical techniques called high-performance liquid chromatography and linear ion trap-Orbitrap mass spectrometry. The analysis revealed significant variations in the lipids in the four types of tea, with each type containing some known bioactive lipids. These included a distinct category of lipids called short-chain fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (SFAHFAs), some of which had never previously been found in plants. SFAHFAs detected in tea could be a novel source of short-chain fatty acids, which are essential metabolites for maintaining gut health. “The discovery of these novel SFAHFAs opens new avenues for research,” says Hui, adding that the lipid concentrations found in the teas are at levels that could be expected to have significant nutritional and medical effects in consumers. The lipids discovered also included α-linolenic acid, already known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and arachidonic acid which has been associated with a variety of health benefits. These two compounds are examples of a range of poly-unsaturated fatty acids found in the teas, a category of lipids that are well-known for their nutritional benefits. Our initial study paves the way for further exploration of the role of lipids in herbal teas and their broad implications for human health and nutrition. We now want to expand our research to characterize the lipids in more than 40 types of herbal tea in the near future.” – Associate Professor Siddabasave Gowda, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University Source: Hokkaido University Journal reference: Nath, L. R. (2024). Dissecting new lipids and their composition in herbal tea using untargeted LC/MS. Food Chemistry. doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.138941. To read the original article click here.

The post Novel Lipids in Traditional Herbal Teas Unlock Potential Health Gains appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

7 Pine Bark Extract Benefits, Including for Skin, Hearing & Diabetes

The AHA! Team — Mon, 06 May 2024 18:04:27 +0000

Kyra Oliver via Dr. Axe – We all know the power of antioxidants to improve health and the high-antioxidant foods we should eat regularly. But did you know that pine bark extract, like pine oil, is one of nature’s super antioxidants? It’s true. What gives pine bark extract its notoriety as a powerful ingredient and super antioxidant is that it’s loaded with oligomeric proanthocyanidin compounds — OPCs for short. The same ingredient can be found in grapeseed oil, the skin of peanuts and witch hazel bark. While OPCs found in this extract are mostly known for their antioxidant-producing benefits, these amazing compounds exude antibacterial, antiviral, anticarcinogenic, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. As such, pine bark extract can help reduce muscle soreness and may help improve conditions relating to: poor circulation high blood pressure osteoarthritis diabetes ADHD female reproductive issues skin erectile dysfunction eye disease sports stamina It addition, the OPCs in this extract may “inhibit lipid peroxidation, platelet aggregation, capillary permeability and fragility, and to affect enzyme systems,” which basically means it may be a natural treatment for many serious health conditions, such as stroke and heart disease. What Is Pine Bark Extract? Pine bark extract comes from the inner bark of the Pinus pinaster tree, most commonly found in Europe. A popular variety is the pinus maritime or the maritime pine that grows exclusively along the coast of southwest France. In 1534, a French ship led by the famous explorer Jacques Cartier became stranded in ice near Quebec, Canada. The crew fell extremely ill from scurvy, an extreme lack of vitamin C. Cartier’s crew crossed paths with a Quebec Indian who encouraged them to drink a tea made from pine bark and needles. Four hundred years later, a French researcher named Jacques Masquelier did some studies to understand why this natural remedy was so effective. He learned about the seemingly omnipotent antioxidant within it and how those antioxidants increase the absorption of vitamin C. Continued research showed that the pine bark contained flavonols and bioflavonoids, which hold tissue-repairing properties. Masquelier was easily able to create a pine bark extract from materials that were otherwise known as waste. Health Benefits 1. Lowers Glucose Levels, Improving Diabetic Symptoms Pine bark extract has been studied in regard to its ability to help diabetic patients. A study was conducted by the Guang An Men Hospital of Chinese Medical Science Research Institute with 77 diabetes type II patients to determine if the extract of the French Maritime pine bark provided anti-diabetic effects. Patients were given 100 milligrams of Pycnogenol®, a branded version of pine bark extract, for 12 weeks, with continued anti-diabetic treatment. The effects of the pine bark extract showed significantly lower levels of blood glucose and improved endothelial function when compared to placebo, concluding that supplementation of Pycnogenol for treating conventional diabetes may be beneficial. 2. Helps Prevent Hearing Loss and Balance Ototoxicity is ear poisoning and can occur when exposed to certain drugs or chemicals, such as cisplatin, that damage the inner ear or the vestibulocochlear nerve. This nerve affects our balance and hearing by sending signals to the brain. This condition can be temporary or permanent — however, some studies have indicated that pine bark extract may help alleviate these symptoms due to its high presence of antioxidants. Thus, this powerful extract may work as a natural ear infection remedy while improving balance and preventing hearing loss. 3. Staves Off Infections Studies have been conducted to review the effects of pine bark extract on pseudomonas infectious wounds. These wounds occur most frequently in hospitals or in those with weakened immune systems, such as after surgery. However, healthy people are not immune and can also develop mild infections, in particular after being in improperly chlorinated hot tubs or swimming pools. In one particular study published in Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers investigated the antibacterial activity of pine bark extract essential oil on staph infections, E. coli and pseudomonas infections. The antibacterial activity was assessed indicating that the essential oil of pine bark, specifically the proanthocyanidins, were effective against P. aeruginosa, significantly inhibiting its growth. Additionally, the results showed that the extract has significant “anti-pseudomonas activity,” making it a potential natural remedy and possible preventive measure for infections. 4. Protects the Skin from Ultraviolet Exposure Who doesn’t want amazing skin? Pine bark extract may be the perfect treatment since it’s an antioxidant dynamo. There is a seemingly growing problem with skin exposure to ultraviolet radiation and the confusion of how to get vitamin D from the sun while avoiding these skin-damaging rays. A review was conducted of French maritime pine bark extract, specifically using the nutritional supplement Pycnogenol. The study provided clear evidence that Pycnogenol does, indeed, offer photoprotection — however, it came out even better than expected, showing that it may be used to reduce hyperpigmentation of human skin while improving the “skin barrier function and extracellular matrix homeostasis.” 5. Decreases Erectile Dysfunction If you knew you could resolve your erectile dysfunction and, therefore, naturally remedy impotence issues, wouldn’t you? Erectile dysfunction has increased over the past decade or two, creating a pathway for various medications to land on the shelves of numerous medicine cabinets, but as you know, going for the natural approach can make a huge difference in overall health. According to a Japanese study, the combination of Pycnogenolt and L-arginine may produce the results you’re looking for, making the bedroom a much happier place. Forty-seven Japanese men with mild erectile dysfunction were given supplements with L-arginine and French maritime pine bark extract over four months. The research revealed that the sperm concentration greatly increased after about eight to 16 weeks of treatment, to include improved orgasmic function. No side effects were noted, unlike its synthetic counterpart. 6. Reduces Inflammation Pine bark extract’s antioxidants scavenge damaging free radicals in an effort to eliminate them, ultimately preventing disease. Studies were conducted in Turkey on subjects who underwent abdominal surgery to determine if the pine bark extract could help reduce the inflammation. They were given Pycnogenol for a period of 10 days. The outcome showed significant healing compared to those subjects who were not given any drug or remedy, concluding that Pycnogenol may be an effective remedy for healing of surgery-related lesions. 7. Helps Increase Athletic Performance Pine bark extract has been studied regarding its relationship to exercise performance, oxidative stress and inflammation to body that has been imposed by exercise. Research indicates that Pycnogenol provides an increase in endurance performance of trained athletes. It does this by improving the time it takes the body to reach a fatigued state through increased serum NAD+ levels. Additionally, athletes have endured less cramping and muscle pain when using the extract. It’s likely that muscle recovery time improved as well due to the high antioxidants pine bark extract contains. Risks and Side Effects While most studies do not indicate major side effects, pine bark extract may cause irritability and fatigue, and could interact with other drugs. Make sure to seek out the advice of your physician prior to using pine bark extract or the branded name, Pycnogenol. If you are taking blood thinners, do not take pine bark extract or Pycnogenol unless approved by your doctor. It’s been noted that taking OPCs and vitamin C supplements at the same time could increase blood pressure if you have hypertension. How to Use Pine bark extract can be found in liquid, tablet or capsule form containing 85 percent to 90 percent OPCs. It can also be found as creams, lotions or ointments, typically containing 0.5 percent to 2 percent pine bark extract. If you choose to use Pycnogenol, follow the dosage instructions on the label. It’s best to check with your doctor about the dosage, based on the symptoms you have and other possible conditions, prior to taking either pine bark extract or Pycnogenol. Final Thoughts Pine bark extract offers some amazing benefits since it’s so high in powerful antioxidants. From diabetes and sexual function to sports performance and beautiful skin, pine bark extract may be worth exploring to provide results you’re looking to achieve. Consider pine bark extract by having a conversation with your physician or a functional medicine doctor. You may want to start slow, taking smaller amounts, to ensure that your body works well with the OPCs found in pine bark extract. Once you’re sure that you don’t have any negative reactions, you may be able to increase your dosage according to the label. To read the original article click here.

The post 7 Pine Bark Extract Benefits, Including for Skin, Hearing & Diabetes appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Succinic Acid Benefits for Skin + How to Use It

AHA Publisher — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:07:18 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – If you consider yourself to be “in the know” on the latest skin care ingredients, one multifunctional facial acid you’re bound to come across is succinic acid. What does succinic acid do for skin? It’s best known for its acne-fighting abilities, but other reasons to add this powerhouse acid to your routine include because it defends against signs of aging as well as dullness and irritation. Where will you find succinic acid? Look for it in facial serums intended to prevent wrinkles, acne treatments and some masks or lotions. What Is Succinic Acid? Succinic acid (SA) is a type of antimicrobial facial acid that’s used in skin care products to clear and brighten the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects — plus it can help soothe irritated skin. SA is considered similar to another very popular facial acid: hyaluronic acid. While hyaluronic acid is used most often for its hydrating and plumping effects, SA is used to remove bacteria from the pores and manage breakouts. What is the other name for succinic acid? It’s sometimes also called butanedioic acid. Where does SA come from? It’s naturally found in some plants and even in animals tissues, much like acids such as butyric acid (found in some foods containing fat, such as butter and ghee). When used in skin care products, SA is typically derived from amber or sugar cane. It can be created via the hydrogenation of maleic acid. Not only is it used in skin care, but it’s also found in some supplements and drugs and used in agricultural and food production. Benefits Succinic acid benefits are vast considering it possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. Whether you’re acne-prone or hoping to fight wrinkles and other signs of aging, here are some of the main reasons to use succinic acid on your skin: 1. Can Help Clear Acne Unlike some other acne treatments and acids, SA helps fight acne and blackheads without causing irritation. It can prevent breakouts due to its ability to kill bacteria and yeast that can be hiding inside pores. Is succinic acid good for cystic acne? Because it also works as an anti-inflammatory agent, it may be able to help reduce the severity of cystic acne breakouts. What’s more, it can help balance skin and treat multiple problems — such as redness, tenderness and oiliness — among those with conditions such as acne, eczema or psoriasis. 2. Soothes Skin and Reduces Inflammation One cool attribute that SA has is that it’s similar to your skin’s own natural oils. This means it can help hydrate and treat irritated, dry or inflamed skin without contributing to excess sebum (oil) production. It’s known to support wound healing and even has some pain-dulling effects, meaning it may make skin rashes or pimples less painful. 3. Has Antioxidant and Anti-aging Effects Due to its antioxidant properties, SA can help slow down signs of aging — such as dark spots, dullness and fine lines— by protecting skin against free radical damage. It also assists in cellular turnover and renewal, which can leave skin looking for refreshed, firm, even and bright. How to Use Most people can use SA daily without experiencing irritation. While each type of product containing SA works a bit differently, it should generally be applied to clean and dried skin under thicker moisturizers. Most often you’ll find this acid in lightweight products, such as serums, which are intended to be applied to the skin first before heavier creams or lotions. Succinic acid acne treatment tips: If you’re acne-prone, be sure to wash your skin twice daily with a gentler cleanser before using SA or other products. You can pair succinic acid with stronger ingredients that fight pimples and clogged pores, such as salicylic acid, retinoids or sulfur. However, these other acne-fighters may need to be used less often than SA, as they’re a bit stronger. If you have oily skin, consider also using SA with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are acids that have exfoliating effects. AHAs — such as malic acid, lactic acid or glycolic acid — can help brighten dull skin, treat dryness and acne, and allow other ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily. Use AHAs several times per week while applying SA one to two times daily. Using succinic acid for antioxidant and anti-aging benefits: For help hydrating dry or combination skin that is also prone to breakouts, consider pairing SA with hyaluronic acid, another great acid for locking in moisture. Both of these are usually safe and effective when used daily. It will also work well with products containing vitamin C, niacinamide and retinol, which improve skin’s tone and texture. Risks and Side Effects Is succinic acid harmful for sensitive skin? Not usually. One of the best things about this ingredient is that it doesn’t interact negatively with most other skin care ingredients and poses little risk for side effects. Overall, it’s considered a calming, hydrating, well-tolerated facial acid, even among those with acne, rosacea, dryness and sensitivities to other skin care products. That being said, it’s always wise to start with a tiny amount of any new skin care product and then increase gradually once you test your reaction. You can also ask your dermatologist for advice if you’re concerned about using specific facial acids. Conclusion Succinic acid benefits include treating acne, reducing skin dryness, fighting free radical damage and signs of aging, and decreasing irritation and inflammation. This specific acid is generally gentle and well-tolerated, so it can be used by people with almost all skin types. Apply it to clean skin once or twice daily under thicker moisturizers. Pair it with other acids for even more antimicrobial, hydrating and exfoliating effects. To read the original article click here.

The post Succinic Acid Benefits for Skin + How to Use It appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Natural Plant Compound in Grapes Protects Brain Health, Research Reveals

AHA Publisher — Wed, 24 Aug 2022 07:00:14 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Over the past few decades, resveratrol, a polyphenol found in grapes and berries, has generated a lot of “buzz,” with numerous – and well-publicized – studies attesting to the cardiovascular benefits of resveratrol-rich red wine. (Non-drinkers can get resveratrol through foods and supplements). But what else can this natural plant compound do? Claims for the health-promoting benefits of resveratrol have been coming thick and fast, with researchers crediting it with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anticancer effects. In fact, in a study published in the Journal of Neuroinflammation, scientists noted that resveratrol could protect brain cells in an unexpected way – by stimulating the destruction of specific proteins. Let’s explore the scientific research on this intriguing polyphenol. Benefits of Resveratrol May Include Hope for Treating Alzheimer’s Disease Resveratrol is classified as a phytoalexin, a sort of natural antibiotic that protects plants from fungal infection, blight, and ultraviolet radiation. Not unreasonably, scientists hope that resveratrol can extend its same protective benefits to human health. What is known is that resveratrol has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity that can cause it to reduce oxidative stress. But, this is not the only gift to health in resveratrol’s “bag of tricks.” According to David Sinclair, AO, PhD, a professor of genetics at Harvard Medical School, resveratrol induces autophagy – a type of cellular defense that targets old, damaged proteins for destruction and recycling. The study referenced by Dr. Sinclair, revealingly titled “Resveratrol regulates neuro-inflammation and induces adaptive immunity in Alzheimer’s disease,” also shows that resveratrol supplementation reduced cognitive and functional decline in Alzheimer’s patients. Earlier research supports these encouraging findings. In a 2018 study published in Biomedicine, researchers credited resveratrol with neuroprotective effects that could cause it to potentially act against Alzheimer’s, Huntingdon’s, and Parkinson’s diseases. The team reported that resveratrol promotes the clearance of beta-amyloid peptides – meaning that it may help reduce the deposit of harmful beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. It also reduces neuronal apoptosis – in other words, it prevents the death of brain cells. Resveratrol also offers neuroprotection to healthy individuals, so “topping up” on this beneficial compound may help protect cognitive function into old age. Resveratrol Supports Joint Health and Reduces Arthritic Inflammation Scientists have long been intrigued by the potential of resveratrol to ease inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). While preliminary animal studies showed that resveratrol could suppress arthritic inflammation, human trials were clearly needed. In 2018, one took place. In a controlled study published in Clinical Rheumatology, researchers set out to study the therapeutic benefits of resveratrol for patients suffering from varying degrees of RA. One group received one gram of supplemental resveratrol – along with conventional treatment – a day for three months, while another group received only conventional treatment. The investigators found that the resveratrol group experienced less swelling and tenderness in joints and also had lowered levels of pro-inflammatory substances, including the “usual suspects” such as C-reactive protein, matrix metalloproteinase-3, necrosis factor-alpha, and interleukin-6. Boost Dietary Resveratrol With Tasty, Succulent Grapes and Berries You can ramp up your levels of dietary resveratrol by eating healthy amounts of grapes, blueberries, and pomegranates. Of course, opt for organic produce whenever possible. While red grapes are commonly believed to contain more resveratrol than green grapes, the American Institute for Cancer Research reports that the amount of resveratrol in grapes (which, by the way, is found mainly in the skins) is more dependent on growing conditions than on the color or type of grape. (When it comes to wine made from grapes, however, red wine contains more than white wine – as grape skins are used in making it). While red wine is an excellent source of resveratrol, health experts point out that alcohol can increase the risk of several common cancers – so its consumption should be sharply limited. Grapes and berries, on the other hand, are a safe non-alcoholic source of resveratrol. Rich in beneficial dietary fiber, these fruits also contain anthocyanins, natural plant pigments with the ability to promote overall health. By the way, other benefits of resveratrol include protecting the heart and supporting pulmonary function. It has also been shown in cell studies to target cancer cells and act against tumors – without harming healthy cells. How Much Resveratrol Is Right for Me? Multiple clinical trials have used resveratrol up to 5 grams a day with no toxic side effects. However, in some studies, amounts of over 2.5 grams a day caused side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. There has also been a paradoxical finding concerning resveratrol, with some studies suggesting that resveratrol can sometimes behave more like a pro-oxidant than an antioxidant – even causing DNA damage and oxidative stress. Researchers speculated that this phenomenon seems related to the amount consumed – and perhaps to the individual’s age – with more research clearly needed. Before supplementing with resveratrol, consult your integrative doctor to find the safest and most beneficial amount for you. Resveratrol has the potential to reduce inflammation and act against neurodegenerative conditions. The exciting possibilities of this natural plant compound have just begun to be explored. Sources for this article include: link.springer.com FoundMyFitness.com NIH.gov MedicalNewsToday.com NIH.gov AICR.org To read the original article click here.

The post Natural Plant Compound in Grapes Protects Brain Health, Research Reveals appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

New, Highly Precise ‘Clock’ Can Measure Biological Age

AHA Publisher — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 08:00:05 +0000

University of Cologne via EurekAlert – Using the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, researchers at the University of Cologne have developed an ‘aging clock’ that reads the biological age of an organism directly from its gene expression, the transcriptome. Bioinformatician David Meyer and geneticist Professor Dr Björn Schumacher, director of the Institute for Genome Stability in Aging and Disease at the CECAD Cluster of Excellence in Aging Research and the Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), describe their so-called BiT age (binarized transcriptomic aging clock) in the article ‘BiT age: A transcriptome based aging clock near the theoretical limit of accuracy’ in Aging Cell. We are all familiar with chronological age – our age since birth. But biological age can differ from it, at times significantly. Everyone ages differently. Scientists can use aging clocks to determine an organism’s biological age. Until now, aging clocks such as Horvath’s epigenetic clock have been based on the pattern of methylations, small chemical groups that attach to DNA and change with age. Using the transcriptome, the new clock takes into consideration the set of genes that are read from DNA (messenger RNA) to make proteins for the cell. Until now, the transcriptome was considered too complex to indicate age. Sometimes genes transcribe a particularly large amount of mRNA, sometimes less. Hence, so far it has not been possible to develop precise aging clocks based on gene activity. Meyer and Schumacher’s new approach uses a mathematical trick to eliminate the differences in gene activity. The binarized transcriptome aging clock divides genes into two groups – ‘on’ or ‘off’ – thus minimizing high variation. This makes aging predictable from the transcriptome. ‘Surprisingly, this simple procedure allows very accurate prediction of biological age, close to the theoretical limit of accuracy. Most importantly, this aging clock also works at high ages, which were previously difficult to measure because the variation in gene activity is particularly high then,’ said Meyer. BiT age is based exclusively on approximately 1,000 different transcriptomes of C. elegans, for which the lifespan is precisely known. Model organisms such as the nematode provide a controllable view of the aging process, allowing biomarkers to be discovered and the effects of external influences such as UV radiation or nutrition on longevity to be studied. The new aging clock allows researchers to accurately predict the pro- and anti-aging effects of gene variants and various external factors in the nematode at a young age. The aging clock also showed that genes of the immune response as well as signalling in neurons are significant for the aging process. ‘BiT age can also be applied to predict human age quickly and with very high accuracy. Measuring biological age is important to determine the influence of environment, diet or therapies on the aging process and the development of age-related diseases. This clock could therefore find wide application in aging research. Since BiT age is based purely on gene activity, it can basically be applied to any organism,’ Schumacher explained. To read the original article click here.

The post New, Highly Precise ‘Clock’ Can Measure Biological Age appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.