chronic disease Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Black Cumin Seed Oil: Powerful Ally Against Breast Cancer & Chronic Inflammation

The AHA! Team — Wed, 07 May 2025 05:28:18 +0000

Lance D Johnson via Natural News – Long before Big Pharma dominated healthcare, ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Ayurvedic physicians prescribed black cumin seeds for ailments ranging from digestive disorders to infections. • Black cumin seed oil contains thymoquinone, a potent bioactive compound with anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. • Research shows thymoquinone induces apoptosis (programmed cell death) in breast cancer cells while protecting healthy cells. • Combining black cumin seed oil with conventional chemotherapy may enhance treatment efficacy and reduce drug resistance. • Historical use of Nigella sativa dates back thousands of years, but modern science is now validating its medicinal power. • Systemic inflammation drives chronic disease, and black cumin seed oil helps restore immune balance naturally. The science behind black cumin’s healing power For centuries, traditional healers have revered black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) as a cure-all, dubbing it “the remedy for everything but death.” Today, cutting-edge research confirms its extraordinary potential—particularly in combating breast cancer and taming the destructive inflammation underlying chronic disease. Unlike toxic chemotherapy drugs that ravage the body, black cumin seed oil offers a natural, scientifically backed alternative that targets cancer cells while fortifying overall health. Black cumin seeds are a treasure trove of bioactive compounds, with thymoquinone standing out as the most potent. Constituting 30–48% of the seed’s essential oil, thymoquinone has been shown in numerous studies to: • Trigger apoptosis in breast cancer cells (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, T-47D) by up-regulating tumor suppressor genes like p53 and Bax while suppressing survival signals like Bcl-2. • Inhibit metastasis by blocking CXCR4, a protein that aids cancer spread, and reducing the activity of TWIST1, a gene linked to tumor progression. • Enhance chemotherapy by reversing drug resistance in doxorubicin- and tamoxifen-resistant cancer cells. A historical remedy validated by modern medicine Long before Big Pharma dominated healthcare, ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Ayurvedic physicians prescribed black cumin seeds for ailments ranging from digestive disorders to infections. The Prophet Muhammad reportedly called it “a cure for every disease except death.” Today, science is catching up: • A 2020 study found that Nigella sativa reduced tumor volume in mice by 67% and blocked liver metastasis. • When combined with paclitaxel (a common chemo drug), thymoquinone boosted apoptosis rates in triple-negative breast cancer cells. • Human trials show black cumin gel reduces radiation dermatitis in breast cancer patients, proving its protective effects. Yet, despite these breakthroughs, mainstream medicine continues to ignore natural solutions in favor of expensive, patentable drugs. Why inflammation is the silent killer — and how black cumin stops it Chronic inflammation is the root of nearly all modern diseases—cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. As we age, the immune system loses its ability to regulate inflammation, leading to a dangerous imbalance. Black cumin seed oil restores equilibrium by: • Suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-?. • Boosting antioxidant defenses to neutralize free radicals. • Enhancing immune surveillance against cancerous cells. Chronic inflammation is the silent engine driving many degenerative diseases, from cancer to heart failure. While acute inflammation helps the body heal, unchecked systemic inflammation ravages tissues, accelerates aging, and primes the body for illness. Black cumin seed oil, rich in the bioactive compound thymoquinone, acts as a natural regulator, suppressing destructive inflammation while enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight infections and malignancies. Landmark study A landmark study published in Phytotherapy Research found that rheumatoid arthritis patients taking black cumin seed oil experienced dramatic relief—42.5% reported reduced joint swelling and stiffness. Another study in Experimental Biology and Medicine revealed thymoquinone’s ability to slow osteoarthritis progression by blocking enzymes that destroy joint tissue. Even more striking, research in the Egyptian Journal of Immunology showed the oil matched the anti-inflammatory effects of dexamethasone, a powerful steroid, without the harmful side effects. A natural cancer fighter hiding in plain sight Conventional oncology relies on toxic chemotherapy, but black cumin seed oil offers a gentler, yet equally aggressive, alternative. Studies demonstrate its ability to mobilize the immune system’s front line defenses: • Macrophages—cells that engulf and destroy cancerous invaders—become more active. • CD-8 T-cells, the body’s assassins of malignant cells, survive longer and attack more efficiently. • Natural killer cell function increases by 30%, while helper T-cells surge by 55%, orchestrating a stronger immune response. Beyond cancer, black cumin seed oil shows promise in cardiovascular care. By lowering LDL cholesterol and raising HDL, it may prevent artery-clogging plaque. It also appears to protect against ischemia-reperfusion injury—the tissue damage following heart attacks or strokes—offering hope for recovery where conventional medicine falls short. Allergy and asthma sufferers For allergy and asthma sufferers, the oil’s immune-modulating effects bring relief without the drowsiness or dependency of antihistamines. Patients report fewer nasal symptoms and easier breathing, thanks to its ability to calm hyperactive immune responses. With breast cancer rates climbing and conventional treatments often failing, the question isn’t whether natural therapies like black cumin seed oil work—it’s why they aren’t being embraced. If a drug demonstrated thymoquinone’s safety and efficacy, it would be fast-tracked by the FDA. Instead, patients are left to navigate the murky waters of Big Pharma’s profit-driven system. Sources include: NaturalHealth365.com MDPI.com Pubmed.gov Pubmed.gov To read the original article, click here

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Ignored Warnings: How Regulators Failed to Act on Wireless Radiation Linked Diseases

The AHA! Team — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 21:50:30 +0000

Willow Tohi via Natural News – For over 50 years, the U.S. government has known about the potential health risks of wireless radiation, yet regulatory agencies have consistently failed to act, leaving the public exposed to chronic conditions ranging from autism to diabetes. A new report, released on February 6 by researchers Richard Lear and Camilla Rees, reveals how a 1971 U.S. Naval Medical Research Institute study identified 132 biological effects and 23 chronic diseases linked to electromagnetic radiation (EMR)—findings that were ignored as wireless technology proliferated. The report, shared at the American Academy of Environmental Medicine’s annual conference in San Antonio, Texas, on February 14, highlights the staggering growth of these diseases and calls for urgent regulatory action. Key Points • A 1971 U.S. Navy study reviewed 2,311 scientific studies and identified 132 biological effects and 23 chronic diseases linked to wireless radiation. • Despite these findings, U.S. regulators, including the FCC, have failed to update exposure limits since 1996, leaving the public vulnerable. • Between 1990 and 2015, 23 chronic diseases predicted by the Navy study surged, with cases reaching 549 million and adding an estimated $2 trillion in annual healthcare costs. • The report calls for immediate action to minimize wireless exposure and restore local control over cell tower placements. The Navy’s 1971 warning: a missed opportunity In 1971, the U.S. Naval Medical Research Institute conducted a comprehensive review of 2,311 scientific studies on the biological effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The study focused on low-intensity EMR signals in the 1 to 4 gigahertz (GHz) range—frequencies strikingly similar to those emitted by modern devices like cell phones, WiFi, and Bluetooth. The Navy’s findings were unequivocal: wireless radiation exposure was linked to 132 biological effects and 23 chronic diseases, including ADHD, autism, diabetes, and leukemia. “These types of wireless exposures are virtually identical with those from modern devices and wireless sources such as cell phones, WiFi, Bluetooth, smart meters, GPS, wearables, and wireless infrastructure,” Lear and Rees wrote in their report. Despite this groundbreaking research, the U.S. government failed to act. Regulatory agencies, including the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ignored the warnings, allowing the wireless industry to expand unchecked. The explosion of chronic disease Between 1990 and 2015, the U.S. witnessed an alarming rise in chronic diseases, many of which were predicted by the Navy’s 1971 study. Autism cases skyrocketed by 2,094%, while chronic fatigue syndrome saw an 11,027% increase. Other conditions, such as ADHD (139%), anxiety (104%), and diabetes (305%), also surged. By 2015, these 23 diseases accounted for 549 million cases, placing an immense burden on the healthcare system and economy. “Of the 36 chronic diseases and conditions that more than doubled (1990-2015), the U.S. Navy study warned us of the connection between wireless radiation and twenty-three of those chronic diseases, predicting what has indeed happened to the health of Americans,” Lear and Rees wrote. The economic impact is staggering. By 2015, these 23 diseases may have added more than $2 trillion in annual healthcare costs to the U.S. economy. The authors acknowledged that other factors, such as sugar consumption and pesticide exposure, likely contributed to the crisis. However, they emphasized that wireless radiation’s role cannot be ignored. The smoking gun: peroxynitrite and chronic disease The report delves into the biological mechanisms behind wireless radiation’s harmful effects, pointing to peroxynitrite—a molecule common to all chronic diseases—as a potential “smoking gun.” Wireless radiation triggers oxidative and nitrative stress, leading to the production of peroxynitrite and other free radicals. These agents disrupt biological homeostasis and create a lethal system of seven synergistic biofactors, dubbed “P-Factor,” which includes systemic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and oxidative stress. P-Factor is shared by all 36 of the fastest-growing diseases in the U.S. “P-Factor is shared by all 36 of the fastest-growing diseases in the U.S.,” the authors wrote. “Is P-Factor the smoking gun for the current U.S. chronic disease health crisis?” Lear and Rees are calling for immediate action to address the public health crisis caused by wireless radiation. They plan to send hard copies of their report to all U.S. Congress members and 1,000 business leaders, urging them to take responsibility for minimizing wireless exposure. Sources include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org ManhattanNeighbors.org ManhattanNeighbors.org To read the original article, click here

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The Chronic Effects of Low-Dose Mercury Exposure

The AHA! Team — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 05:12:24 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Although mercury can enter the body through contaminated seafood, vaccines, and emissions from factories and coal power plants, the main source of exposure is dental amalgams. Natural health experts are sounding the alarm on chronic (low-level) mercury exposure, calling it a “biochemical train wreck” and an “under-recognized epidemic.” Mercury, a known neurotoxin, binds to molecules, tissues, and cells in the body and sets the stage for a host of serious chronic diseases – although both the American Dental Association and the FDA continue to minimize and deny its toxic effects. Yet, there are millions and millions of people suffering from mercury poisoning, and neurodevelopmental disorders have surged by over 30 percent in the last decade. What you need to know about mercury exposure Although mercury can enter the body through contaminated seafood, vaccines, and emissions from factories and coal power plants, the main source of exposure is dental amalgams. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that the typical absorbed dose from amalgams is 100 micrograms a day. One of the most disturbing facts about mercury exposure is its association with neurological disorders, behavioral problems, autism spectrum disorder, and mental illness. Many experts point to the soaring rates of neurodevelopmental disorders in this country as a testament to the toxic effects of mercury. Mercury, which can destroy the protective myelin sheath that covers the nerves, is highly damaging to the neurological system. In fact, researchers report that autism is often accompanied by oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and increased inflammation – all of which are consistent with mercury poisoning. In addition, mercury exposure can cause deficiencies and imbalances of essential minerals such as zinc and copper, a condition associated with ADHD. Mercury exposure also interferes with the production and function of various neurotransmitters, including the “calming” body chemical GABA – thereby promoting the development of depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Mercury interferes with antioxidant defenses Chronic mercury exposure also depletes nutrients in the body, promoting oxidative stress and interfering with antioxidant defenses. Mercury’s ability to bind to sulfur and selenium severely limits the beneficial oxidation-fighting and cancer-fighting effects of these antioxidant minerals. This interferes with the immune system’s ability to identify cancerous cells and causes it to attack normal, healthy cells, triggering the development of autoimmune disease and cancer. Mercury also binds to glutathione, the body’s premier antioxidant, which is designed to detoxify mercury and other heavy metals. In addition, mercury attacks the disulfide bonds in collagen, triggering arthritis and connective tissue disorders while also damaging the cell mitochondria that synthesize energy. Mercury exposure promotes cardiovascular and digestive diseases Mercury exposure contributes to heart disease by causing the oxidation of blood vessels and creating endothelial dysfunction. In one study of patients with heart failure, mercury levels in the myocardium, or middle layer of the heart wall, were found to be 22,000 times higher than normal. Mercury alters intestinal flora, increasing the presence of undesirable bacteria and pathogens such as candida. Digestion is impaired because of mitochondrial dysfunction. Mercury also increases the risk of food sensitivities, especially gluten and casein, and contributes to a “leaky gut.” As if this weren’t damaging enough, chronic exposure to mercury is linked with insulin resistance, hypoglycemic symptoms, and metabolic syndrome – a constellation of unhealthy conditions that include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess abdominal fat, and excess levels of LDL cholesterol. Susceptibility to mercury varies with the individual Vulnerability to mercury depends on a variety of factors, including exposure, nutrient status, lifestyle, and genetics. Over the last ten years, however, researchers have documented over a dozen common genetic variations that cause increased vulnerability to mercury toxicity – and many more are likely in existence. It can be difficult to diagnose mercury toxicity, as mercury can accumulate throughout the body without showing up in blood, urine, or hair. In addition, symptoms of mercury toxicity are common to many other illnesses and may appear long after exposure. Following a nutrient-dense diet and taking supplements advised by a knowledgeable holistic physician can help modulate the effects of mercury exposure. But, the bottom line is: if you have mercury-based, “silver” fillings in your mouth … get them removed (as soon as possible) by a qualified (holistic) dentist and begin the process of mercury detoxification – slowly and consistently. You can search for a holistic dentist at this web site: IAOMT.org. In addition, in terms of good food, high-quality fats, organ meats such as liver, organic olive oil, and bone broth can help replace depleted minerals and amino acids, while probiotic foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria in the intestine. Foods high in vitamin C can provide antioxidant benefits and rebuild damaged collagen, with Brazil nut, sesame, and pine nuts helping to replace magnesium, zinc, and selenium. Obviously, if you’ve been poisoned with mercury, the process of detoxification will take some time and effort. But, remember, your future health depends on you taking action today. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to remove toxic mercury from the mouth and correct other dental problems, own the Holistic Oral Health Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Townsendletter.com To read the original article click here.

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“Magic” Milk Protects You From Chronic Disease

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Nov 2022 08:00:10 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – A groundbreaking new study out of Stanford University may finally compel the so-called “experts” to admit they’ve been wrong about what’s causing the shocking rise in diabetes.1 The FDA and Big Pharma want to blame it on family history and high blood sugar. They still don’t understand what’s REALLY going on… The crisis, which I call Syndrome Zero, is a direct result of chronic inflammation caused by an industrial, grain-based diet. Our bodies simply weren’t designed for all the carbohydrates modern humans eat. This carb overload wipes out beneficial bacteria in your gut microbiome. Before long, disease-causing bacteria begin to bloom unchecked inside your body. Soon, fissures and gaps in your intestinal lining expose you to toxic-gut syndrome. And that sends your immune response into overdrive. What follows is a runaway train to diabetes, heart disease, autoimmune illnesses – and even more inflammation. And as you know, inflammation is the root cause of chronic disease. Fortunately, some treatments can stop – and even reverse – this progression. Stanford University researchers wondered if a specific type of food could reduce biomarkers of chronic disease by feeding the beneficial bacteria that serve as your frontline defense. I’m talking about fermented foods like kefir, kimchi, kombucha, and sauerkraut. Stanford researchers put patients on a 10-week meal plan featuring fermented foods. Throughout the study, they measured changes in 19 key proteins linked to inflammation. They described their results as “stunning.” Individuals who ate fermented foods developed far more diverse, resilient microbiomes. Even more important… All 19 inflammatory protein markers dropped significantly in those patients eating fermented foods. Plus, their immune cell responses became calmer, better modulated, and less hyperactive.2 Unfortunately, you can’t just go to the local supermarket and buy fermented foods. Not only are they stuffed with extra sugars you need to avoid, but the pasteurization process kills off the good bacteria. Take kefir, for example. For my money, this fermented, “magic” milk gives you the biggest health benefits. It’s packed with up to six times more varieties of good bacteria than your typical probiotic yogurt. The most beneficial kefir contains healthy yeast, but store-bought brands don’t. Manufacturers stop the yeast process before packaging. If they didn’t, the fermentation process would continue… and the sealed containers could burst. Nourish Your Gut And Lower Inflammation With Healthy Homemade Kefir I get my homemade kefir from a local farmer. But you can make your own – it’s surprisingly simple. Begin by obtaining “kefir grains” – the yeast and bacterial clumps that resemble cauliflower florets. You’ll find them online, and some kefir-lovers just give them away. Here’s my recipe: Ingredients: 1 quart of organic, grass-fed whole milk (If you want to use raw milk, make sure it comes from a safe and reputable dairy) Kefir grains Large glass bowl or pitcher One-quart mason jar with lid Colander Directions: Put 2-3 heaping tablespoons of kefir grains into the mason jar. Shake the milk, then pour it into the jar as well. Place the lid atop the jar, but do not twist and seal it. Place it in a cupboard, and keep the room temperature between 72 and 78 degrees. The warmer it is, the faster it ferments. Store it for about 24 hours. Upon opening the jar you’ll notice the curd-like grains have risen to the top, and the milk is a thicker consistency, like buttermilk. You should detect a slightly sour, fermented smell. To strain, place the colander over the glass bowl or pitcher. Pour the contents of the mason jar into the colander. Next, you’ll want to stir the colander for a few minutes to aid the separation of the kefir grains that remain behind in the colander. (Save the left-over kefir grains, you can use them again to repeat the process!) Pour the kefir into a mason jar and store it in the refrigerator. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Wastky H, et al. “Gut-microbiota-targeted diets modulate human immune status.” Cell. 2021 Aug 5;184(16):4137-4153. 2. Ibid. To read the original article click here.

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Night Owls Face Greater Risk of Heart Disease and Type 2 Diabetes

AHA Publisher — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 07:18:11 +0000

News Staff via NaturalHealth365 – You may have heard the saying attributed to Benjamin Franklin: “early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” However, not everyone likes to go to bed early. Some people are “early birds,” while others tend to be “night owls.” Yet, new information published in Experimental Physiology suggests that being an early riser could decrease your risk of some chronic diseases. The research indicates that “night owls” may actually be at higher risk of diabetes and heart disease. Are “Night Owls” at Greater Risk of Chronic Disease? The recent research, completed at Rutgers University in New Jersey, evaluated participants according to what times of day they preferred to sleep or be active. Researchers looked at factors like body mass and composition, insulin sensitivity, and fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Study participants ate a controlled diet so that diet would not alter the study results. They were subsequently monitored over the course of a week. Researchers measured the participants’ fuel preferences, which refers to whether their bodies favored carbohydrates or fats as energy fuel. To gather this information, researchers performed tests at rest and then during two bouts of exercise. The “night owl” group of participants exhibited a propensity to use carbohydrates instead of fats and also showed signs of insulin resistance. Furthermore, the “early birds” demonstrated higher aerobic fitness levels. Why Night Owls May Face a Greater Risk of Heart Disease and Diabetes The study findings are concerning for those of us who prefer to stay up late. People in the “early bird” category like to rise and be active earlier in the day. Researchers found that these people were more likely to use fat as an energy source and use insulin more efficiently. For night owls, the trouble lies in the metabolic differences. The impaired insulin response shown by the night owl group puts them at a higher risk of developing two dangerous chronic conditions – cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. While the reason for the metabolic disparity between early birds and night owls remains unclear, researchers believe it may be related to the body’s circadian rhythms. These natural sleep/wake cycles appear to play some role in how the body uses insulin, contributing to higher disease risk in some people. How to Sleep Better and Stay Healthier Given the study findings, it may be worth paying attention to Benjamin Franklin’s words after all. Additionally, those who stay up late often miss out on valuable parts of the natural sleep cycle. Your deepest sleep occurs earlier in the night instead of later. In fact, sleeping between the hours of 10 pm and 2 am are the most restorative for your body. Consequently, your sleep will tend to be less restorative when you stay up very late, missing out on this vital cycle. So how can you get the most out of your precious sleeping hours? For one, minimize light from screens, caffeine, and alcohol late in the evening to help your mind and body better prepare for sleep. You’ll also find it quite helpful to expose yourself to the night by going outside for 30 – 60 minutes. This will help you to “settle down” after a stressful day. Putting your bare feet on the ground will give you added benefits for a good night’s sleep. Of course, getting enough exercise – on a regular basis – will help. And get up a bit earlier, so you’re ready for bed sooner. Sources for this article include: MedicalXpress.com To read the original article click here.

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What Are the Benefits of Medicinal Mushrooms?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 07:00:09 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – The biotech world is abuzz these days over proposed drugs to help you live longer. It sounds great… except for the drug part. After circumnavigating the globe seeking ancient natural cures, I’ve developed several ways to prolong your “health span”… the amount of time you can live a long, rich life free from chronic disease. And you don’t have to become a guinea pig for Big Pharma’s experimental drugs either. Increasingly, there’s a natural “longevity superfood” in the spotlight. People call it a plant but it’s really a fungus. I’m talking about health-boosting, medicinal mushrooms. Only when you assemble all the pieces of the mushroom longevity puzzle can you see the complete picture. And it’s stunning…. Live Long and Prosper With Medicinal Mushrooms Researchers are finally waking up to something I’ve been talking about for years — the far-reaching longevity benefits of mushrooms, including: Brain health – One study of 663 subjects in Singapore compared mushroom intake with the risk of developing cognitive impairment. Participants consuming mushrooms three or more times a week were 43% less likely to develop dementia.1 That’s because mushrooms are neurotropic, promoting the health of neurons.2 Inflammation – As my regular readers know, inflammation is an express train ride to accelerated aging. Mushrooms are packed with powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, including polysaccharides, phenolic and indolic compounds, mycosteroids, fatty acids, and carotenoids.3 They help you tamp down inflammation before it can spiral out of control. Anti-Mutagenic – Their cancer-fighting properties are legendary. My regular readers know I’m quite impressed with the cordyceps sinensis variety445445 in this regard. It’s shown a powerful ability to inhibit cancer growth in lung, colon, skin, and liver cells.4 One recent study found that eating just a tablespoon and a half of mushrooms led to a 45% reduction in cancer risk.5 That’s quite significant considering 4 in every 10 Americans develop cancer at some point during their lives.6 Mitochondria – Each cell in your body relies on minuscule power plants to provide energy called mitochondria. As you age, their production declines due to oxidative damage. Mushrooms provide the No. 1 most concentrated food source of a unique amino acid that functions as an antioxidant. Called ergothioneine, it scavenges free radicals with a vengeance to boost your mitochondrial energy production.7 Mushrooms are also impressive immune boosters… the only “vegetable” that contains vitamin D. No wonder they’re on the menu of anyone serious about keeping their golden years free of chronic disease. The only question is how best to get them, and that can be a bit tricky. Here’s why… An Ounce of Mushrooms Worth a Pound of Cure The surfaces of mushrooms are quite porous. They readily absorb any pollutants they’re exposed to during processing. So if it’s an extract, capsule, or powder, you have to be careful. My recommendation: Stay safe by making your own supply. It’s surprisingly easy, and my simple drying method boosts levels of vitamin D and other nutrients: First, find a reliable, local source of fresh mushrooms – shiitake, reishi, maitake, lion’s mane, and oyster are all good varieties. I buy from my local produce stand. Just spread the mushrooms out in the sun on some parchment paper or flat pieces of wood (I don’t recommend aluminum trays). Let them sit in the sun. Before nightfall, cover them. This prevents getting dew on them. Re-expose them to sun, and repeat the drying process the next day. You can also put them in a food dehydrator to ensure they’re thoroughly dried. Once they’re a bit crispy, use a blender or food processor to make your powder. You may need a fine mesh strainer to collect leftover chunks. Just give them a second run through your processor. Store your powder in an air-tight glass container. Keep it away from heat and light. Once a day, just toss a couple tablespoons in your coffee, smoothie, soups, or yogurt. Properly dried mushrooms will last for up to a year. So enjoy the taste, the convenience… and the longevity benefits. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1 Feng, Lei, et al. “The Association between Mushroom Consumption and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Singapore.” Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, vol. 68, no. 1, 12 Mar. 2019, pp. 197–203, 10.3233/jad-180959. Accessed 18 Sept. 2020. 2 Sabaratnam, Vikineswary, et al. “Neuronal Health – Can Culinary and Medicinal Mushrooms Help?” Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, vol. 3, no. 1, Jan. 2013, pp. 62–68. 3 Muszyńska, Bożena, et al. “Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Edible Mushrooms: A Review.” Food Chemistry, vol. 243, Mar. 2018, pp. 373–381, 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.09.149. 4 Van De Walle, Gavin. “6 Benefits of Cordyceps, All Backed by Science.” Healthline.com website, 9 May 2018. 5 Ba, Djibril, et al. “Higher Mushroom Consumption Is Associated with a Lower Risk of Cancer.” ScienceDaily.com website, 16 Mar. 2021, 33.htm. 6 National Cancer Institute. “Cancer Statistics.” National Cancer Institute, Cancer.gov, 2020. 7 Geng, Ping, et al. “Antifatigue Functions and Mechanisms of Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms.” BioMed Research International, 14 Aug. 2017, Accessed 18 Aug. 2021 To read the original article click here.

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Supporting Friends and Family Relieves Stress, Decreases Inflammation, Study Suggests

AHA Publisher — Mon, 21 Feb 2022 08:00:50 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Want to lower inflammatory markers in your body associated with stress, chronic disease, and even early death? In addition to things like diet and exercise, your social life actually plays a pivotal role! A new study out of Ohio State University offers new insight into just how powerful healthy social relationships really are, with positive effects noticeable even at the immunological level. Positive Social Relationships Relate to Lower Levels of Inflammation, But There’s One Small Catch “Although positive social relationships are assumed to relate to lower levels of chronic systemic inflammation,” write Tiao Jiang and co-authors in the study’s introduction, “the empirical evidence on this association is mixed.” Their research was an attempt to help clarify this evidence by relying on longitudinal data compiled from self-reported questionnaires. Their study, published this month in Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, compiled data from 1,054 healthy adults between the ages of 34 and 84, all of whom were involved in the U.S. National Survey of Midlife Development. Study participants answered questions about: Their level of “social integration,” e.g., how often they attended social events and whether they lived with a partner How much they believed they could rely on friends, family, or a spouse if they needed help Their sociodemographic information and relevant health information Importantly (and what sets this study apart from similar research), participants were also asked to rate their “perceived support-giving,” which the authors defined as the belief that one can be available to give social support to others. At a two-year follow-up, the participants returned to provide blood samples, which were used to test for the levels of a systemic inflammatory biomarker known as interleukin-6 (IL-6). Higher levels of IL-6 have been associated with a wide range of chronic diseases, ranging from cancer to heart disease to Alzheimer’s. After accounting for confounding factors like pre-existing medical conditions, education and income levels, age, and health behaviors, the researchers discovered that simply having good social support from others isn’t necessarily enough to lower inflammatory markers. What DID show a statistically significant correlation, however, was the relationship between IL-6 levels and perceived support-giving. As the authors put it: “positive social relationships are associated with lower IL-6 only for individuals who believe they can give more support in those relationships.” Admittedly, as far as a “catch” goes, this seems like a pretty good one: your social life can boost your health, but only if you make yourself available to help other people. Doing good for others has never been so good! It Is NEVER Too Late to Make Connections With others … Here Are Five Ways to Improve Social Relationships As Jiang and co-authors note in their paper, inadequate social relationships have been linked to a whopping 50% increased risk of death, which is on par with smoking or obesity in terms of detrimental health impacts. But if you struggle to connect with others, you might feel like you don’t know where to start when it comes to improving your social relationships. These five social-boosting strategies might help: Use other people’s names frequently. It’s an easy way to show interest in others and start a connection. Practice your active listening skills. Good listeners are generally more enjoyable to be around than people who don’t pay attention, interrupt, or are simply waiting for their turn to talk. Get moving with others. The National Institutes of Health recommends getting physically active with other people as an effective way to build social bonds. Try a group exercise class or even a lunchtime walk with co-workers. Do good for others by offering to buy a round of post-workout coffees or snacks! Join in. Find opportunities to be around other people, ideally doing activities you already enjoy (e.g., volunteering, adult educational programs). Be kind to yourself. It’s okay to feel a little shy or nervous when you put yourself out there. Do some relaxing activities before a social outing, try not to overthink things, and when in doubt, turn the conversation to the other person by asking them questions about themselves and their interests. Sources for this article include: Sciencedaily.com Sciencedirect.com APA.org Suicide.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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4 SIMPLE Lifestyle Behaviors to Cut Your Risk of Chronic Disease

AHA Publisher — Wed, 05 Jan 2022 08:00:51 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Sometimes the simplest solutions for health are the hardest to do. All too often, people will dismiss them because they are so simple. Other times though, in this fast food, ‘give-it-to-me-now’ world, immediate results are preferable to gradual, healthy lifestyle changes. The thing is, the “old school” methodical approach works best, and there’s plenty of science to back it up. Multiple studies show making several simple lifestyle changes can dramatically cut your risk of chronic disease and other medical conditions. Simple just works. Cut Your Cancer Risk by Kicking THIS Habit to the Curb In a study published in Preventative Medicine, smoking cessation provided the most benefits of lifestyle changes. Scientists found improved lung function, a decreased risk of certain cancer, and improved heart health. This, in turn, resulted in reduced risk for hypertension, heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. How to make the change: Quitting smoking is not easy, but that does not mean it is impossible. There are many programs available that are designed to help people stop smoking and medical interventions such as short-term prescriptions and patches. Your doctor can help you find the solution to stop smoking that is right for you. But remember, don’t be too hard on yourself. Many people quit smoking several times before they put it down for good. So if you slip up one day, don’t let it set you back. Just get right back on that horse and press on! Studies Show Maintaining a Healthy Weight Provides MULTIPLE Health Benefits Obesity is one of the most prevalent medical conditions with the most negative impact on your health – and it is one of the easiest to prevent. Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of many severe health conditions such as all-cause of death, high LDL cholesterol, high triglyceride levels, low HDL cholesterol, stroke, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis, gallbladder disease, sleep apnea, many types of cancer, chronic pain, depression, diminished brain health, and heart disease. Studies have shown that losing weight can begin to reverse these conditions and lower your risk of serious medical issues. Maintaining a healthy weight eliminated them almost completely. How to make the change: Making gradual changes to facilitate weight loss is very effective. Remember, you are aiming for lifestyle changes, NOT a diet. Start by walking three or four times a week and gradually increase the time and speed. Next, make healthier food choices, such as reducing your sugar intake or adding more vegetables to your meals. Gradual changes can help ensure that you are making changes in your life that you can continue for life. Complete deprivation is not realistic but learn to control your portions and make sweets or less healthy foods an occasional treat instead of a daily indulgence. A Little Goes a Long Way: 30 Minutes of Exercise Every Day Yields SURPRISING Benefits Just 20-30 minutes of exercise each day can give your health an impressive boost while lowering your risk for many health conditions and diseases. In addition to weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight, it can also lower your risk for heart disease, heart attack, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, brain health, and mental health issues like depression. Exercise is also a great way to manage stress, and a lower stress level means lowering your risks for those health conditions even more. How to make the change: You have so many options when you decide to start exercising. Some people choose to join a gym, but it is not necessary. You can walk around your neighborhood park, even in your home. Walk up and down stairs or get a mini-trampoline and do a workout on it. The internet has thousands of videos and articles on creative ways to incorporate exercise into your life – even if you are incredibly busy. The important thing is that you do it. How you do it is up to you. Eating Healthy: Every Meal Is a Choice; Choose Wisely Eating healthier can lower your risk for heart attack, stroke, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, but it can also boost your immunity, improve your skin, and give you more energy. One of the natural benefits of eating healthier is losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight. This, in turn, means better health all the way around, from your brain down to your feet. When you put better things into your body, your whole body benefits. How to make the change: Adopting a healthy eating lifestyle requires a little forethought. First, you need to assess the areas where your eating habits need help. Are you a late-night snacker? Do you have cravings? Are you a sugar junkie? These things will all factor in how you approach your dietary changes. Be kind to yourself, though. Start small and work into it. Begin by incorporating lean meat and fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains into the foods you eat while at the same time cutting back on the things that aren’t so great for you. It is a process, but if you stick to it, you will see results pretty quickly – and that’s always a great motivator. Before you begin any program or make any significant lifestyle changes, you should talk with your healthcare provider. They can give you valuable tips and help you find the right solutions to get the best outcome as you work toward better health, longevity, and all the good things that come with it. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov CDC.gov To read the original article click here.

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Is Green Tea a Cancer Killer?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:58 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – I tell my patients there’s a good reason why countries like Japan, China and Korea have some of the lowest cancer rates in the world. Two words: green tea. I’ve written to you before about how green tea can protect against a number of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and depression – and cancer is no exception. In one breakthrough study, researchers from the Arizona Cancer Center found that chemicals in green tea dramatically increase the production of key detoxification enzymes that boost your body’s metabolic defense against toxins that can cause cancer.1 The study, published by the American Association for Cancer Research, proved that catechins – a type of natural antioxidant – found in green tea, increase the gene expression of glutathione S-transferase(GST) enzymes by as much as 80%. These powerful GST enzymes then convert toxic carcinogens into non-toxic chemicals, rendering them harmless. A number of studies also show that epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, an especially potent catechin in green tea, is a powerful weapon against multiple types of cancer – both as a primary prevention and as further prevention after cancer treatment. Here are just a few of the cancer types, against which green tea has been shown to be highly effective. Skin cancer2,3 Duodenal cancer in the small intestine4 Prostate cancer5 Lung cancer6 Colorectal cancer7 Stomach cancer8 In many parts of Asia, green tea is a beverage consumed as commonly as water, many times per day. The Arizona Cancer Center found that the anti-cancer effects of green tea catechins kick in at between 8 and 16 cups per day. You can also take EGCG supplements. I recommend you get around 1,500 mg a day — to be split up between meals and taken about 30 minutes after eating. For added cancer protection, I recommend daily vitamin D for my patients. The best source of vitamin D is sunshine. You don’t need more than 20-30 minutes in the sun to get all your vitamin D for the day. But because we spend most of our time inside, you might have to get your vitamin D from other sources. Food sources include salmon, mackerel, tuna fish, sardines, eggs, beef and cheese. I also recommend taking a supplement of vitamin D3 called cholecalciferol. It’s the same vitamin D that your body produces. Just be sure to avoid the synthetic form, vitamin D2, or ergocalciferol, in most multivitamins. It’s less potent and less absorbable. To Your Good Health Al Sears, MD, CNS 1 Chow SHH, et al. “Effects of Repeated Green Tea Catechin Administration on Human Cytochrome P450 Activity.” Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention.15(12):2473-6. January 2007 2 Conney AH, et al. “Inhibitory effect of oral administration of green tea on tumorigenesis by ultraviolet light, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorobol-13-acetate and N-nitrosodiethylamine in mice.” Cancer Chemoprevention. Florida: CRC Press; 1992. pp. 361–373. 3 Yoshizawa S, et al. “Penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate cancer preventive agents.” ACS Symposium Series. 4 Y Fujita, et al. “Inhibitory effect of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate on carcinogenesis with N-ethyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in mouse duodenum.” Jpn J Cancer Res. 1989 Jun;80(6):503-5. 5 Gupta S, et al. “Inhibition of prostate carcinogenesis in TRAMP mice by oral infusion of green tea polyphenols.” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2001;98:10350–10355. 6 Nakachi K, et al. “Preventive effects of drinking green tea on cancer and cardiovascular disease: epidemiological evidence for multiple targeting prevention.” BioFactor. 2000;13:49–54 7 Ibid. 8 Yamane T, et al. “Inhibition of N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine-induced carcinogenesis by (-)-epigallocatechin gallate in the rat glandular stomach.” Cancer Res.1995 May 15; 55(10):2081-4. To read the original article click here.

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