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Forest Bathing to Boost Anticancer Immunity

The AHA! Team — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 06:38:14 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – Spending time in a forest, or even anticipating it, significantly lowers levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), more so than being in an urban area. Natural killer cells are one of the ways our body fights off cancer, and visiting a forest can induce a significant increase in both their numbers and their activity. I’ve previously shown how exposure to nature can have self-reported psychological benefits, but there was a dearth of data on changes in objective measurements, so I was excited to see this paper on the effects of forest bathing, “a traditional practice characterized by visiting a forest and breathing its air,” on levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the participants’ saliva. The level of cortisol in our saliva is considered an indicator of our stress level, and study participants’ salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower after walking in a forest or even just hanging out in one (“forest watching”), compared to walking or just being in a city, as you can see at 0:49 in my video Boosting Anticancer Immunity with Forest Bathing. However, the same effect was found before they went to the forest, too. Indeed, “forest bathing, in particular forest watching, was associated with significantly lower cortisol levels both before and after this practice if compared with visiting an urban area.” Therefore, it appears that just the thought of spending time in a forest relieves stress. So, “when comparing the effects of forest bathing versus urban visiting, the anticipated placebo effect…may play a more important role in influencing cortisol [stress] levels than the actual experience” of being in the forest. I was ready to dismiss this as just another nebulous psychological effect until I read this: “Studies on the effects of ‘Shinrin-yoku’ [forest bathing] on the immune function showed that visiting a forest can induce a significant increase in the number and activity of natural killer (NK) cells,” one of the ways our body fights off cancer. That got my attention. It all started with this study: Twelve men were taken on a long weekend trip to walk in the forest, and nearly all of them (11 out of 12) showed higher natural killer cell activity afterward. It wasn’t just a little increase either; they had about a 50 percent increase in NK cell activity after the trip compared to before they went to the forest, as you can see at 2:00 in my video. Now, exercise alone can affect immune function, but “there were no significant differences in walking steps before and during the trip.” The study participants were just walking in a forest instead. However, they were taken on a trip somewhere, which introduced other variables, so what about randomizing them to go on a city trip versus a forest trip? If there were some special forest effect, how long would it last? Do you have to walk in the forest every day? Before jumping into all that, let’s first see if it works in women, too. This study had the same kind of set-up, and the same kind of results: a significant boost in natural killer cell activity from walking in the woods. What’s more, this time, the participants were retested a week later, and their natural killer cell activity was still up. When they were retested a month after the trip their levels were back to baseline, as you can see at 2:45 in my video. So, walking in the woods once a week should do it, but the study involved a multi-day trip. Who can go to the forest all weekend, every weekend? How about just a day trip? The title gives it all away: “A Day Trip to a Forest Park Increases Human Natural Killer Activity and the Expression of Anti-Cancer Proteins in Male Subjects.” The same results and the same big jump measured the day after the trip compared to before and with the same staying power, as you can see at 3:08 in my video. And, natural killer cell activity was still boosted a week later. “This suggests that if people visit a suburban forest park once a week on a day trip, they may be able to maintain increased NK activity” and a boost in anticancer immune function. I’m still not convinced, though. How can you attribute the benefit to the forest itself, when all you have are before and after data? To make the case that nature had anything to do with it, you’d need a control group of study participants who took the same kind of trip but went somewhere else instead. And here we go. Again, the study title says it all: “Visiting a Forest, but Not a City, Increases Human Natural Killer Activity and Expression of Anti-Cancer Proteins.” By the end of the forest trip, the participants experienced a boost of 80 percent in NK activity after forest bathing, compared to only a 10 percent bump for the city walkers, as shown below and at 3:58 in my video. Both trips were matched for physical activity, alcohol, and sleep, too— other factors and behaviors that can affect immune function. So, we’ve got confirmation of boosted immunity, but only on the forest trip, “indicating that forest bathing does indeed enhance human NK activity.” Moreover, the researchers found that “the increased NK activity and numbers of NK cells induced by a forest bathing trip lasted more than 7 days, even 30 days, after the trip.” As you can see below and at 4:26 in my video, NK activity was still up a week later and even a bit up a month later. “This suggests that if people visit a forest once a month, they may be able to maintain increased NK activity. This may be important in health promotion and preventive medicine.” Now that we know that forest bathing induces a real effect, the next question is, Why? What is it about forests that give us the boost? (You can imagine Big Pharma wondering if it can be made into a pill.) We’ll find out next. The video I mentioned at the start is Are There Health Benefits of Spending Time in Nature?. Stay tuned for the follow-up post: Why Does Forest Bathing Boost Natural Killer Cell Function?. For other ways to improve immune function, check out related posts below. Key Takeaways Spending time in a forest, or even anticipating it, significantly lowers levels of cortisol (a stress hormone), more so than being in an urban area. Forest exposure is associated with a notable increase (around 50 percent) in NK cell activity, which plays a role in fighting off cancer. After a single forest trip, NK cell activity remains elevated for up to a week, and, in some cases, positive effects last up to a month. A day trip to the forest can be enough to maintain elevated NK cell activity if done weekly or monthly. Studies comparing forest versus city exposure confirm that forest environments uniquely boost immune function, independent of other factors like exercise and sleep. To read the original article click here.

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Breakfast: Smoked Salmon Benedict with Olive Oil & Avocados Recipe

The AHA! Team — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 08:41:28 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Delicious Beyond Keto Recipe for a Strong Immune System This time of year, we all start thinking about our immune systems. How can we stay healthy for the next 6-7 months? How can we avoid sickness and boost immunity? There are a lot of ways to support your immune system, and some of them are as easy as the foods we choose each day. Our recipe today, delivers delectable flavors for a strong immune system. Eat it for breakfast, or any time of day. It’s low carb, high nutrient, and delicious. Here’s how to make this Beyond Keto recipe and why it’s time to be picky about what foods we put in our bodies. Choose healthy foods for a strong immune system! Delicious Strong Immune System Breakfast: Smoked Salmon Benedict with Olive Oil & Avocados Ingredients 2 large eggs (local, free-range, organic if possible) 1 slice Keto bread or English muffin, cut in half (optional) 1 tablespoon cream cheese (optional) 2 ounces smoked salmon (salmon lox) 2 teaspoons capers Thinly sliced red onion Fresh ground black pepper Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1/4 med avocado, sliced thin (optional) Lemon Hollandaise Sauce 2 large egg yolks (local, free-range, organic if possible) 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons butter 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice A pinch of salt Instructions Start with the Hollandaise sauce: Place egg yolks and water in a small skillet. Increase heat to medium-high Hold the pan 2 inches above the heat surface and whisk the eggs until they are foamy and warm. Add the butter while still holding pan, and whisk until the mixture becomes thick. Add lemon juice and salt. Whisk to mix well. Set aside on the counter. Toast bread. Spread cream cheese on bread. Place a medium pot, filled with water on the stove over high heat. Bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer. Crack one egg and add at a time. Allow eggs to cook for 4 minutes. Remove eggs with a slotted spoon and place on bread. Pour hollandaise sauce over eggs, top with onions, capers, black pepper, and avocado. Drizzle olive oil over the entire dish. Nutrition Info (serves 1): 530 calories, 50 grams fat, 4 grams net carbs (7 grams total, 3 grams fiber), 28 grams protein Immune Boosting Breakfast Superfoods 1. Eggs Eggs provide one of the best, most bioavailable, proteins known to man. When you’re interested in boosting your immune system, it’s important to eat adequate protein. This only requires a small amount at each meal. Egg proteins also support fat metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, the immune system, hormones, cellular growth and repair, and more (1). 2. Salmon In addition to providing great protein, salmon offers one of the most potent compounds to fight inflammation and support the immune system. The omega-3 fats in salmon are true superfood compounds. They increase the production of anti-inflammatory hormones. This in turn, relieves the immune system by reducing its reaction to inflammation. Omega-3 fats are known to support eye, brain, cardiovascular, and cellular health (2). 3. Olive Oil Extra virgin olive oil boasts a great immune-boosting compound: oleocanthal. Studies show that oleocanthal specifically contains disease-fighting antioxidants, anti-cancer compounds, anti-inflammatories, and compounds that support heart health. It is potent and reduces inflammation in similar strength to some medications, like ibuprofen (3). Additionally, it provides both antibacterial and anti-viral action (4). 4. Avocados Avocados are another anti-inflammatory food that supports your immune system. It has fats called phytosterols. Phytosterols fight inflammation associated with arthritis while avocados’ polyhydroxylated fatty alcohols (PFAs) reduce inflammation in other ways. Additionally, oleic acid supports digestive tract and brain health to directly boost the immune system (5). 5. Red Onions Red onions are a wonderful food to support your immune system. They contain antioxidants that fight cell-damaging free radicals, are antibacterial and contain anti-cancer compounds. 6. Lemon Juice Lemon juice is a good source of vitamin C, and vitamin C is a strong immune-supporting antioxidant. In addition, lemon juice contains antibacterial compounds that fight bacteria in the entire digestive tract, from mouth to intestines (6). 7. Black Pepper Black peppercorns are a humble, inexpensive, amazing superfood. They support your immune system with potent antioxidants like piperine and anti-inflammatory compounds. Black peppercorns have healthy effects and fight cellular overgrowth (7). Want More Beyond Keto Strong Immune System Tips? This is just one part of a strong immune system plan. Here are some more tips to check out: The Best Supplements to Support a Strong Immune System 15 Strong Immune System Foods How a Healthy Weight Supports a Strong Immune System 12 Easy Daily Habits for a Strong Immune System Bottom Line It’s a great time to do everything you can to have a strong immune system. Throughout your day, eat foods that support your immune system with great superfood ingredients. Try our delicious Beyond Keto breakfast (any time of day)! It will satisfy your taste buds and body with nourishing ingredients. To read the original article click here.

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Plant-Based Vaccine Against SARS-CoV-2 Shows Promise

AHA Publisher — Mon, 24 May 2021 07:00:23 +0000

Michael Burgess via News-Medical – Researchers at Canadian biotechnology company Medicago report that Phase 1 trials of a plant-based vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 are underway and showing promise. The team, led by Dr. Brian Ward, professor of Medicine and Microbiology at McGill University, Canada, has published data from an initial clinical trial study in which 180 adults aged between 18 and 55 were injected with a plant-produced virus-like particle (VLP). The trial indicates that this novel VLP developed to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of COVID-19 disease, shows strong immunogenic properties and no serious adverse effects. The research paper is available to read at Nature Medicine. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is now responsible for over 165 million cases globally. Since the World Health Organization classified the disease as a pandemic almost 18 months ago, 180 vaccine candidates have been developed, 12 of which have been given authorization for vaccine use. In this new study, Ward and colleagues describe their new plant-based vaccine candidate that has successfully navigated phase 1 human trials. The vaccine is produced by inserting the SARS-CoV-2 protein into the nuclei of benthi plants (Nicotiana benthamiana, commonly found in Australia). This is then transfected into a bacterial cell (Agrobacterium tumefaciens) to use as a vector. These cells are then injected into the bloodstream, where they express the S protein to stimulate the immune system. The research tested this compound in three different magnitudes (3.75 μg, 7.5 μg, and 15 μg), each either adjuvanted with CpG1018, AS03, or without an adjuvant. CpG 1018 and AS03 are compounds commonly added to vaccines to induce a more robust immune response by the body. All participants received their second dosage 21 days after their first and were sampled again on day 42 (after initial injection). As expected, the addition of either CpG 1018 or AS03 adjuvants did aid and increase the immunogenic response exhibited by the body, particularly so with AS03. Only mild adverse effects were observed in portions of the sample in all test groups, with roughly two-thirds of each group experiencing mild pain at the injection site after receiving the first dosage, and a fifth reported experiencing headaches or fatigue. In the subsequent second dose, this remained about the same, although reports of fatigue and headache increased to a third. However, all adverse effects were noted to be mild to moderate, with no serious effects taking place. The aim of this study was to determine the best dosage and adjuvant combination to boost immunity. Based on their results, a two-dose schedule with a concentration of 3.75 μg in addition to ASO3 showed the best results, and these results have since advanced to phase 2/3 trials in Canada and the United States. These results are promising, highlighting yet another diverse tool in our arsenal against the spread of the global COVID-19 pandemic. To read the original article click here.

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Avocado Deviled Eggs Recipe — The Ideal Keto Snack

AHA Publisher — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 08:00:20 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – You’ve probably eaten deviled eggs, but have you ever had avocado deviled eggs? If not, this deviled eggs recipe is for you. Benefit-rich eggs are a serious powerhouse food. They’re a relatively inexpensive source of meat-free protein that can help prevent disease, improve eye health and help you drop pounds. While they’re most often enjoyed as a breakfast food or a baking ingredient, they make a pretty tasty — and popular — appetizer in the form of deviled eggs. Add in another superfood, and this avocado deviled eggs recipe is something to enjoy anytime. Are Deviled Eggs Bad for You? Deviled eggs are hard-boiled eggs that have had the yolks removed and mixed with other ingredients, which are then stuffed back into the egg. Why are they called “deviled eggs”? Back in the 1800s, “deviled” foods referred to foods that were super seasoned. That’s where the name for deviled eggs, devil’s food cake and other naughty foods came from. While they might taste good, traditional deviled eggs are a fairly unhealthy food. Most of that is thanks to the mayonnaise they’re usually drowned in — just one tablespoon of mayo has about 90 calories. When you consider that most store-bought mayo brands are also made with GMO-laden canola or vegetable oils, it’s clear that deviled eggs with mayonnaise aren’t the healthiest option. What if you could replace the creamy texture that mayonnaise provides with another ingredient, something that adds flavor, texture and health benefits? It’s time to replace your old recipe with these avocado deviled eggs. Key Ingredients Avocado deviled eggs are a deliciously healthy option. One egg is about 78 calories and has a whopping 6.3 grams of protein, while one serving of avocado is packed with 113 calories, vitamin K, folate, vitamin C, healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber and protein. That’s a lot for the little green fruit. When you combine the amazing benefits of eggs and avocado with spices that help boost immunity, protect the heart and so much more, you can’t go wrong. That’s exactly what this deviled eggs recipe does thanks to the additional seasoning provided by the garlic, chili powder, cumin, cilantro, sea salt, black pepper and paprika. These healthy deviled eggs are vegetarian-friendly, dairy-free and fit into Paleo and ketogenic diets. How to Make Avocado Deviled Eggs Best of all, these avocado deviled eggs are ready in under an hour, making them perfect for impromptu guests or to take as a party appetizer. Let’s get cooking. First, we need to hard-boil the eggs. In a medium pot, add the eggs and cover with water until they’re fully submerged. Bring them to a boil, then remove from heat and cover the pot for 12–13 minutes. Next, fill a large bowl with ice water. Use a slotted spoon to gently place the eggs into the bowl. Let the eggs chill here for five minutes. Next, remove the shell from the eggs and slice in half lengthwise, removing the yolk. Add the yolk, along with the avocado and spices, to a bowl. Mix all of the ingredients until they’re well-combined. Now, spoon the avocado/yolk mixture into the egg halves. Top each egg half with fresh cilantro and a drizzle of fresh lime juice if you’d like. Serve at your next event and watch your guests devour! Avocado Deviled Eggs Recipe — the Ideal Keto Snack DESCRIPTION These avocado deviled eggs are vegetarian-friendly, dairy-free and fit in to Paleo and ketogenic diets. Try them today! INGREDIENTS 4–6 eggs 1 avocado ¼ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ teaspoon garlic ¼ teaspoon chili powder ¼ teaspoon cumin ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika, optional* 2 tablespoons cilantro drizzle of lime juice, optional* INSTRUCTIONS In a medium pot add eggs and cover with water until fully submerged. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and cover for 12–13 minutes. Fill a large bowl with ice water and, using a slotted spoon, gently place eggs in the bowl, allowing eggs to chill for 5 minutes. Remove outer casing from eggs and slice in half lengthwise, removing the yolk. Add the yolk, along with the avocado and spices to a bowl, mixing together until well combined. Add the mixture to the egg halves. Top with cilantro. NOTES Feel free to skip the paprika if you prefer. Adjust the other spices as you see fit for desired taste. Drizzle some lime juice if you want some extra zest or just eat as is. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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10 Ashwagandha Benefits for the Brain, Thyroid and Muscles

AHA Publisher — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 07:00:04 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Ashwagandha (aka Somnifera dunal) is an adaptogenic herb that’s popular in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been used for more than 2,500 years. It’s actually the most commonly used and extensively researched adaptogen herb. Ashwagandha is valued for its thyroid-modulating, neuroprotective, anti-anxiety, antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are just some of its many benefits. In India, it is known as the “strength of the stallion” because it traditionally has been used to strengthen the immune system after illness. It’s also been referred to as “Indian ginseng” because of its ability to enhance your stamina and work as a natural stress reliever, and those aren’t the only benefits of ashwagandha. In fact, the herb’s ability to work as a stress-protective agent is what makes it so popular. Like all adaptogenic herbs, it helps the body maintain homeostasis, even in moments of emotional or physical stress. But the many ashwagandha benefits don’t stop there. This powerful herb has shown incredible results for lowering cortisol levels and balancing thyroid hormones. Plus, it’s been used for mood disorders and in the prevention of degenerative diseases, as it appears to help with these conditions as well. What Is Ashwagandha? The ashwagandha plant is botanically known as Withania somnifera root. It is a member of the Solanaceae (nightshade) family. Ashwagandha root is also commonly called Indian ginseng, winter cherry and somnifera root. The root and leaves of the ashwagandha plant are most commonly used for their medicinal properties, and the presence of withanolides, a group of steroidal lactones, contribute to the herb’s health benefits. These withanolides include withaferin A, withanolide D and withanone. The literal meaning of the word ashwagandha is “smell of horse” because the fresh roots of the herb are said to smell like a horse. As the story goes, it’s believed that when you consume it, you may develop the strength and vitality of a horse as well. In Latin, the species name somnifera can be translated as “sleep-inducing.” There have been over 200 studies on ashwagandha benefits, including the herb’s ability to: Improve thyroid function Treat adrenal fatigue Reduce anxiety and depression Reduce stress Increase stamina and endurance Prevent and treat cancer Reduce brain cell degeneration Stabilize blood sugar Lower cholesterol Boost immunity Ashwagandha is an important herb in Ayurvedic medicine because it serves many purposes and benefits many body systems, including the immune, neurological, endocrine and reproductive systems. It’s often used as ashwagandha oil (sometimes called ashwagandha essential oil). The primary goal of Ayurvedic medicine is to help people stay healthy without the need for suffering, prescription drug options or complicated surgeries. As part of this 5,000-year-old system, ashwagandha herb is used as a home remedy to relieve a number of health conditions and help the body remain in balance. Research published in Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy indicates that “Ayurvedic medicinal plants have been the single most productive source of leads for the development of drugs.” Many of the Ayurvedic herbs, like ashwagandha root, have proved to be useful in relieving a number of health concerns. In Ayurvedic medicine, this herb is characterized as a “rasayana.” This means it’s used to promote physical and mental health, defend the body against disease and damaging environmental factors, and slow the aging process. In India, it has been used as a broad-spectrum remedy for centuries, but more recently scientists have found that it possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that play a major role in the many ashwagandha benefits. Benefits and Uses What are some ashwagandha benefits for men and women? There are thyroid, anxiety and weight loss benefits, among others. Here are some of the top uses once you diagnose an issue, with the supporting research indicating the herb’s benefits: 1. Improves Underactive Thyroid Function One of the most incredible aspects of adaptogen herbs is that they help people with thyroid problems. Ashwagandha has been shown to support a sluggish thyroid for people diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease, or underactive thyroid. For the millions of people who struggle with thyroid problems, many of whom don’t even know it, it may serve as the solution they’ve been waiting for. These ashwagandha health benefits for the thyroid also account for the herb’s benefits for weight loss since thyroid issues can lead to weight fluctuations. In a 2017 pilot study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, ashwagandha benefits for helping patients with subclinical hypothyroidism were evaluated. The 50 participants were diagnosed with thyroid disorder, but didn’t display obvious symptoms of thyroid deficiency. During an eight-week period, the treatment group received 600 milligrams of ashwagandha root extract daily, and the control group received starch as the placebo. Researchers found that the extract improved serum thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) levels significantly compared to placebo. It was concluded that the herb may be beneficial for normalizing thyroid levels in patients with hypothyroidism. Another study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicinealso found that ashwagandha has thyroid-enhancing properties. In the study, patients with bipolar disorder used the herb to improve cognitive function for an eight-week period. Lab testing found that some of these patients experienced T4 increases during the treatment period, although that was not the original purpose of the study. Research suggests that, since ashwagandha increases thyroid function, it may not be suitable for people with hyperactive thyroid, such as those with Graves’ disease. 2. Relieves Adrenal Fatigue Research shows that ashwagandha may be useful in supporting adrenal function and helping overcome adrenal fatigue. Your adrenals are endocrine glands that are responsible for releasing hormones, specifically cortisol and adrenaline, in response to stress. If your adrenals are overtaxed due to an overabundance of emotional, physical or mental stress, this can lead to a condition referred to as adrenal fatigue. When your adrenals become exhausted, this can also disrupt other hormones in your body, including progesterone, which can cause infertility and lower levels of DHEA, a hormone that’s tied to longevity and maintaining a strong body. 3. Combats Stress and Anxiety One of the most well-known ashwagandha benefits is its ability to work as a natural remedy for anxiety. In a 2009 study published in PLOS One, ashwagandha proved to be comparable to common pharmaceutical drugs lorazepam and imipramine, without the adverse effects. In the 12-week controlled study, 75 participants with anxiety were divided into two groups, one that received naturopathic care and another that received standardized psychotherapy intervention. The naturopathic care group received dietary counseling, deep breathing relaxation techniques, a standard multivitamin and 300 milligrams of ashwagandha twice daily. The psychotherapy intervention group received psychotherapy, deep breathing relaxation techniques and placebo pills twice daily. When anxiety levels were measured after the 12-week period, the group that received ashwagandha had anxiety scores that decreased by 55 percent, and the psychotherapy group’s scores decreased by 30.5 percent. Significant differences between the two groups were also found in mental health, concentration, social functioning, vitality, fatigue and overall quality of life, with the ashwagandha group displaying greater clinical benefits. In addition to these positive findings, researchers indicated that no serious adverse effects occurred in either group. A major ashwagandha benefit is that there are no or minimal adverse reactions when taking it. Conversely, antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications may cause drowsiness, insomnia, loss of sexual desire and increased appetite, among other negative effects. 4. Improves Depression Not only does ashwagandha benefit people who deal with anxiety and chronic stress, but it can also be helpful for people who experience signs of depression. The herb improves resistance toward stress, and studies show that it thereby improves people’s self-assessed quality of life. In a 2000 experimental study involving rats, ashwagandha efficacy was compared to the antidepressant medication imipramine. Researchers found that it exhibited antidepressant effects that were comparable to imipramine when rats were exposed to “behavioral despair” and “learned helplessness” tests. It was concluded that ashwagandha can be used as a mood stabilizer in clinical conditions of depression. 5. Balances Blood Sugar Levels Ashwagandha has been evaluated for its anti-diabetic effects, which are possible because of the presence of phenolic compounds, including flavonoids. Research shows that flavonoids possess hypoglycemic activities, and a study involving rodents concluded that both ashwagandha root and leaf extracts helped achieve normal blood sugar levels in diabetic rats. An animal study published in Reports of Biochemistry and Molecular Biologyfound that when ashwagandha was given to fructose-fed rats, it inhibited the fructose-induced increases in glucose, insulin resistance and inflammation. This data suggests that ashwagandha extract may be helpful in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammatory markers in humans. 6. Helps Fight Cancer Research suggests that ashwagandha has promising anti-tumor effects, can help reduce tumor cell growth and may work to prevent cancer cells from growing. The extract has been shown to help inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells — specifically breast, lung, stomach and colon cancer cells, which are among the leading types of cancers in the world. It’s believed that ashwagandha helps prevent the growth of cancer cells mostly due to its immune-boosting and antioxidant abilities. In addition to the anti-cancer ashwagandha benefits that have been displayed in multiple studies, researchers also suggest that the herb can help reduce the side effects of anti-cancer agents that can reduce immunity and quality of life. According to an overview published in the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines, ashwagandha acts as an immunomodulator that can enhance the life span of cancer patients, who are especially at risk of lowered immunity. An animal study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that supplementing with ashwagandha was correlated with an increase in white blood cells within the body. This indicates that the immune system is better able to protect the body from disease and harmful invaders when using this herb. The decreased count of white blood cells in the body after chemotherapy is a major concern because it puts cancer patients at a much higher risk of health issues, like contracting an infection. This is why this herb may serve as a complementary addition to conventional cancer treatments. 7. Reduces Brain Cell Degeneration and Improves Memory Emotional, physical and chemical stress can have damaging effects to the brain and nervous system. Recent research shows that ashwagandha is more than a stress reliever — it also protects the brain from cell degeneration, which can lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. One of the main reasons it is so effective at healing the brain is because it contains powerful antioxidants that destroy the free radicals that cause aging. Withaferin A and withanolide D are the two main withanolides in ashwagandha that are used to improve cognitive function. Withanolides are naturally occurring steroids that are commonly present in plants of the nightshade family. When these steroids were injected into rodents to test their cognitive-improving abilities, researchers showed that they helped promote cell outgrowth, reverse behavioral deficits and plaque buildup, and reduce amyloid beta burden, which is crucially involved in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. A 2017 pilot study published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements suggeststhat ashwagandha effectively enhanced both immediate and general memory in people with mild cognitive impairment. The herb was also able to improve attention, information processing speed and mental skills. The study involved 50 adults who received 300 milligrams of ashwagandha root extract or placebo for an eight-week period. Researchers concluded that ashwagandha treatment was able to boost memory and other cognitive skills. 8. Boosts Immune Function Because ashwagandha works as an adaptogen that can reduce the body’s stress hormones, it can help boost your immune system and reduce inflammation within the body. Animal and laboratory research shows that it can enhance immune function by increasing immunoglobulin production. It is also able to promote an anti-inflammatory environment by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines. By downregulating the immune system when it’s compromised, this adaptogenic herb might be a useful tool in the treatment of various inflammatory disorders. 9. Increases Stamina and Endurance Studies show that ashwagandha can boost endurance during physical activity by sharpening...

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Medicinal Mushrooms Can Eliminate the Threat of Viruses and Cancer Cell Growth

AHA Publisher — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 07:00:41 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Sometimes what you can’t see, can hurt you. Beyond the vision of the naked eye, there’s a battle going on all around you, every day. Viruses, environmental toxins, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, harmful fungi, allergens and other fierce combatants are waging war with your body. Hence, the need for medicinal mushrooms to protect your health, as you’ll soon see. As you know, a healthy immune system is one of your best lines of defense against the health challenges all around you. But, most people hear little about how medicinal mushrooms can greatly improve immune function. Today, you’ll discover how this powerful “super food” offers antiviral and anticancer benefits. Proven Results With Centuries of Evidence Today’s unhealthy environment, with pollutants found outside, in our workplace and even in our homes – has caused many to look for natural solutions to the hazards of modern living. While medicinal mushrooms may seem like a new approach, they have actually been used for thousands of years throughout the world. In fact, according to many natural health experts, the ability of certain mushrooms to promote wellness and restore health has been consistently proven and is remarkably safe. Those same health benefits of medicinal mushrooms are now being experienced in today’s world, resulting in a resurgence of their use. How Do Medicinal Mushrooms Boost Immunity? There are a number of reasons the ‘little old’ mushroom is actually a health-boosting superstar. For one, they contain a family of carbohydrates known as beta-glucans that stimulate the body’s many types of immune cells, particularly so-called “first responders.” At the same time, medicinal mushrooms can act to calm your body’s over-reactive autoimmune response, essentially performing double duty to ward off illness by giving your immunity a ‘jump start’ while also alleviating symptoms of such conditions as psoriasis, lupus and arthritis. And it doesn’t stop there. Along with their helping hand to the immune system, mushrooms are believed to support heart health, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, boost cognitive health, increase metabolic efficiency, improve digestive health, and aid other systems and functions of the body. Can Medicinal Mushrooms Help to Prevent Cancer Cell Growth? Because these healthy fungi are so adept at supporting the immune system, they can play a role in helping your body to fight off potential and developing tumors. As a secondary defense in combating cancer, medicinal mushrooms are powerful antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals in the body that can otherwise invade cells and damage DNA. The third punch they deliver to cancer is by acting as natural detoxifiers, ridding the body of accumulated dead cells and tissues, wastes and other substances that can act as potential carcinogens. Think of these helpful fungi as sponges, soaking up toxins, much as other types of fungi thrive on decaying material. A Basic Guide to Picking the Right Medicinal Mushrooms With nearly 300 types of medicinal mushrooms, it can seem a daunting tasks to determine which could be useful for any given health need. Among the more commonly used and their areas of function are: Agaricus blazei: supports the immune system, believed to fight tumors, and helps to control cholesterol and blood sugar. Cordyceps sinensis: improves immunity, and promotes a healthy cholesterol profile. Coriolus versicolor: used for its antitumor properties and may be useful in enhancing certain cancer treatments. Ganoderma lucidum: reduces cholesterol and promotes healthy circulation; may be useful in fighting cancer and HIV. Grifola frondosa (maitake): used to combat cancer, moderate blood sugar and support liver health; may also be useful against HIV. Polyporus umbellatus: believed to enhance the immune system, while also supporting liver health; particularly helpful against bacteria-borne disease. When selecting a daily supplement, it’s best to choose one that includes a balance of species to cover a number of health areas, including immunity, cardiovascular and circulatory, and cancer-fighting properties. If you have specific health concerns, such as digestive issues or arthritis, be sure the formula includes medicinal fungi known to benefit these conditions. And, obviously, talk to your own integrative healthcare provider about what’s best for you, especially if you’re dealing with a serious health issue. Sources for this article include: Lifeworkswellnesscenter.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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