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4 Herbal Remedies to Help Support Urinary Tract Health & Comfort

The AHA! Team — Mon, 05 May 2025 05:46:32 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common form of bacterial infection, triggering emergency room visits for roughly a million Americans annually. Women are far more susceptible than men, with fully one-third of women experiencing a UTI by age 24. Western medicine attempts to treat UTIs with broad-spectrum antibiotics – which can cause a variety of toxic side effects as well as contribute to the growing global epidemic of antibiotic resistance. These dangerous drawbacks have caused many scientists to stress the urgent need for alternate, natural therapies for UTIs. Below, you will find four time-honored herbal remedies, the benefits of which have been validated by recent scientific research. Discover the leading natural preventative option for urinary tract infections Cranberries have a well-earned reputation for helping to ward off UTIs. Extensive scientific studies are now revealing their intriguing method of action. And, while researchers used to credit the benzoic acid in these tart berries with creating an environment in the bladder that is unfriendly to the growth of pathogens, many now believe that benzoic acid must share the infection-fighting credit with the proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins, a group of natural pigments and antioxidants, are found in intensely-colored fruits and vegetables – and are in particularly good supply in cranberries. The primary cause of UTIs – a bacterium known as E.coli – makes its way from the anus to the urethra, where it then adheres to mucosal cells in the urinary tract. Researchers have discovered that the proanthocyanidins in cranberries attack and disable the structures on the surfaces of the bacteria that make cell adhesion possible. Without attaching to the urethral lining, the infection fails to take hold. In one impressive study involving female adult participants with chronic urinary tract infections (an average of six a year), 400 mg of cranberry extract a day eliminated UTI incidence – with no side effects. How’s that for effectiveness?! Cranberry appears to be equally beneficial when taken in the form of juice. In recent research, cranberry juice performed nearly as well in preventing UTIs as trimethoprim, an antibiotic. If you decide to go the “juice route,” opt for unsweetened, organic cranberry juice – at least two cups daily. Cranberry extracts, however, have the advantage of being more cost-effective than fresh juice. But, ultimately, the best way to access the benefits of cranberries depends on your taste – and your financial situation. Marshmallow root is a potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and diuretic Revered in herbal medicine for its ability to ease sore throats and coughs, marshmallow root is also gaining traction among holistic healthcare providers as a treatment for UTIs – and for good reason. This natural herb is high in mucilage, a natural tissue soother. It also has potent anti-inflammatory effects to alleviate swelling in the mucous membranes lining the urinary tract, making tissues stronger and less susceptible to toxins, infections, and damage. Helps flush toxins, and combats bacteria In addition, marshmallow root increases urine flow, helps flush toxins, and combats bacteria – making it a useful ally against E. coli. And finally, marshmallow root contains high levels of antioxidant glucuronoxylan – which helps to protect against disease-causing oxidative damage. While marshmallow root is an ingredient in the sugary white confection roasted over bonfires, you need a more concentrated supply to get the herb’s full benefits. A holistic physician may recommend addressing UTIs with one to two teaspoons of powdered marshmallow root daily, taken with at least 8 ounces of liquid. Alternately, marshmallow root is available as tea, which can be sipped in one-half to one cup four times a day. Uva ursi contains a host of infection-fighting phytochemicals Uva ursi, also known as bearberry, has been used by herbal healers for nearly two thousand years to treat infections and inflammations of the bladder and kidneys. A natural diuretic and antiseptic, uva ursi alleviates inflammation and strengthens the lining of the urinary tract. But that isn’t all. The herb is also rich in tannic acid – which has proven antifungal and antibacterial properties – and contains a compound called arbutin that helps regulate the pH balance of urine. Allantoin Finally, uva ursi contains allantoin, which is often used as a healing, skin-soothing ingredient in lotions and ointments. Uva ursi is available in capsules (or powders), and natural health experts advise a formulation standardized to 400 to 800 mg of arbutin. You can also make uva ursi tea by simmering a tablespoon of dried leaves in 2 cups of water for 40 minutes, then straining and cooling. Drink three to four times a day. Remember: Uva ursi should not be used long-term or in high amounts. As with the other three remedies, consult your holistic doctor before taking it. Corn silk: An old-fashioned herbal remedy exhibits therapeutic powers in clinical studies Corn silk, long treasured in folk medicine as a home remedy for UTIs, has some serious scientific credibility backing up its low-tech, homey image. In fact, it turns out that these silky fibers have powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In a study published in the Journal of Complementary Medicine Research, 42 adult participants with UTIs were treated with an aqueous extract of corn silk and followed up after 5 days, 10 days, and 20 days. The patients experienced significant reductions in the pain and in the frequent, urgent urination that can accompany UTIs – along with a decrease in the number of pus cells (a sign of infection) in the urine. There were no reports of side effects, leading the team to characterize corn silk as “effective and safe.” Corn silk can be easily brewed into a tea. Add a tablespoon of dried strands to a cup of almost-boiling water, let the mixture steep for 15 to 20 minutes, then strain, cool, and drink. Plus, natural healers may advise drinking one or two cups of corn silk tea, two to three times a day, to combat UTIs. Remember, don’t attempt to treat urinary tract infections – or any other medical condition – with these natural remedies without first consulting an experienced healthcare provider. UTIs can sometimes progress to serious kidney infections, manifested by fever, chills, and lower back pain, requiring immediate medical attention. To prevent UTIs from taking hold in the first place natural health experts advise staying well hydrated, avoiding antibiotic overuse, wearing cotton underwear, and avoiding irritating bubble baths and commercial vaginal hygiene products. Of course, eliminating refined sugars from your diet can also lower the risk of these uncomfortable infections. Marshmallows, cranberries, corn silk, and bearberry (uva ursi) may lack the multi-syllabic, official-sounding monikers of the latest drugs cooked up by big pharma. However, these herbal strategies can still offer wonderful results. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Globalhealingcenter.com Bibliomed.org Lifeextension.com To read the original article click here.

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Cranberries Proven to Boost Gut Health, Research Suggests

The AHA! Team — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 07:26:45 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Food scientists increasingly explore cranberries’ role in gut health and maintaining a balanced gut microbiome. Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst recently found that a specific indigestible carbohydrate in cranberries can nourish and stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Cranberries also exhibit unique metabolic effects in the gut, further promoting overall gut health. A new study published in NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes (2024) reinforces these findings. Short-term supplementation with cranberry extract modulated gut microbiota in humans, inducing a bifidogenic effect. Researchers observed an increase in butyrate-producing bacteria, which contribute to gut and metabolic health. Special compound in cranberries supports prebiotic activity in the gut microbiome Food scientists have been paying special attention to prebiotics of late. Prebiotics refer to molecules that can be consumed but are not digested. They also promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut microbiome. The foods we eat not only bring a certain level of nutritional benefit; they also either help or hinder the function of our gut microbiome. It’s worth noting that these bacteria outnumber our bodies’ cells by a substantial amount. Many plant cell walls cannot be digested, including the special sugars located in the cellular walls of the cranberry called xyloglucans. However, these xyloglucans find their way into the intestines and gut microbiome. These ‘beneficial bacteria’ then break them down to create various health-supporting compounds and molecules. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial to immune system vitality The study published in NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes involved 28 human participants. It demonstrated that after just four days of cranberry extract supplementation, there was a significant increase in the abundance of butyrate-producing bacteria, such as Clostridium and Anaerobutyricum. These bacteria produce butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid essential for maintaining gut integrity and supporting metabolic health. The study also revealed that the cranberry extract altered the balance of short-chain fatty acids in the gut, with a decrease in acetate and an increase in butyrate, signifying a shift towards a healthier gut environment. Additionally, participants with microbiomes characterized by Prevotella experienced an increase in Faecalibacterium, a beneficial microbe known for its anti-inflammatory properties. In the University of Massachusetts Amherst study, researchers extracted and purified xyloglucan from cranberries. This sugar was then used as the sole carbohydrate to feed bifidobacteria, which are beneficial bacteria naturally found in the human gut. These bacteria were placed in a controlled, oxygen-free (anaerobic) laboratory environment to study how they responded. Results showed that bifidobacteria thrived on this cranberry-derived sugar, highlighting its potential role in promoting a healthy gut microbiome. The researchers found that some of the bifidobacteria could consume xyloglucans and exhibit a special, atypical metabolism when doing so. They produce formic acid and less lactic acid than what is typically secreted by similar compounds. Ultimately, this kind of research brings hope that this carbohydrate found in cranberries could eventually become a valuable food additive or supplement. Remember, when the gut microbiome is ‘out-of-whack,’ it can lead to chronic inflammation and disease. So, obviously, we want to eat as many foods as we can (each day) to support our gut health. Pre- and pro-biotics could hold the key to overall gut health Although some research indicates a trend toward focusing on prebiotics instead of probiotics for gut health, I wouldn’t count out the value of probiotics too quickly – especially in the age of antibiotics. Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria introduced into the gut, while prebiotics are compounds already present that nourish and support the growth of these good bacteria. Prebiotics play a key role in producing essential compounds in our bodies, breaking down substances we can’t digest, protecting against harmful pathogens, and assisting other beneficial microbes in maintaining overall health. Researchers are already planning future studies to explore the activity of cranberry xyloglucans with other beneficial bacterial strains. We’ll probably see similar (positive) results. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Eurekalert.org To read the original article click here.

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Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Recipe

The AHA! Team — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 06:39:36 +0000

Recipe by: Nutrition Facts – Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Recipe A smoothie that combines simple ingredients for a tasty fall treat! COURSE: Breakfast, Dessert, Drinks, Snack DIFFICULTY: Easy SERVINGS: 2 Ingredients ▢1 15 oz Tetra Pak or BPA-free can of pumpkin puree* ▢1 cup frozen cranberries ▢4 medjool dates pitted ▢1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or to taste) ▢¼ teaspoon turmeric powder ▢1 ½ cups unsweetened soy milk (or as needed) ▢ice as needed Instructions Combine the ingredients and blend until smooth. Taste the smoothie and adjust ingredients as desired Notes *If time allows, remove the pumpkin puree from the can or Tetra Pak and place in a glass container. Freeze for 3-4 hours before making the smoothie. To read the original article click here.

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Improve Your Heart Health With These Tart Berries

AHA Publisher — Mon, 09 May 2022 06:55:25 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – For many people, eating cranberries is a sort of “one-off.” A traditional, time-honored companion to turkey and stuffing, cranberries may be consumed at a holiday meal – often in the form of canned, processed cranberry jelly – then promptly forgotten until next year. But, if this is the extent of your experience with cranberries, you may be missing out on valuable nutrients and plant compounds that can make for a “happy heart.” In a new study conducted at King’s College, London, researchers discovered that polyphenols in cranberries could improve blood vessel function, thereby promoting cardiovascular health. So, let’s see what makes these tart little crimson berries so uniquely beneficial to the human heart. Well-Controlled Study on Cranberries Yields Impressive Findings The “gold-standard” trial – a type of research widely acknowledged as the most rigorous kind of study – involved a group of healthy young men given a cranberry extract every day for a month (with a control group receiving a placebo). The team found that the cranberry extract significantly improved cardiovascular function, resulting in better flow-mediated dilation – a marker of heart health that measures the widening of blood vessels. The researchers noted that the improvements began as soon as two hours after cranberry consumption and persisted throughout the month of the study. Significantly, the volunteers didn’t have to gobble large quantities of cranberries or consume high extract dosages. The amount used in the study – nine grams of freeze-dried powdered berries – was roughly equivalent to eating a daily 100-gram serving of fresh cranberries, an amount the scientists called “reasonable.” Researchers Find “Solid Evidence” of Vascular Benefits from Cranberries The study, published last month in the journal Food and Function, illustrated the impact of cranberries on heart health. Lead author Dr. Ana Rodriguez-Mateos, of the Department of Nutritional Sciences at King’s College London called cranberries an “important fruit” in the prevention of heart disease for the general public. “The increases in polyphenols … and related improvements in flow-mediated dilation after cranberry consumption emphasize the important role cranberries may play in cardiovascular disease prevention,” Dr. Rodriguez commented. Co-author Dr. Christian Heiss, Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Surrey, agreed. “Our findings provide solid evidence that cranberries can significantly affect vascular health, even in people with low cardiovascular risk,” Dr. Heiss pointed out. In other words, eating cranberries can help keep an already-healthy heart in good shape. Proanthocyanidins Help Neutralize Harmful Free Radicals Botanically known as Vaccinium macrocarpon, cranberries are closely related to blueberries and bilberries and share many of their properties. Cranberries are rich in antioxidant compounds, including quercetin, myricetin (also found in parsley and celery), and ursolic acid, which have anti-inflammatory effects. These antioxidants can scavenge harmful free radicals that would otherwise cause oxidative stress and damage. As if that weren’t enough antioxidant “bang for the buck,” cranberries contain the antioxidant vitamins C and E and a substantial amount of heart-healthy fiber. But the real key to the cardiovascular benefits of cranberries could be their proanthocyanidins. Research has shown that these natural plant pigments may help keep arteries supple and flexible while helping to maintain desirable cholesterol readings. In addition, proanthocyanidins help to regulate the balance of “friendly” versus “unfriendly” bacteria in the all-important gut microbiome, the community of bacteria in the digestive tract. Finally, proanthocyanidins can also decrease levels of a pro-inflammatory substance known as homocysteine. Clearly, these berries have what it takes to support efficient heart function. Use in Salads, Sauces, and Salsa Cranberries are available fresh, dried, powdered, or juiced. Because the fresh, raw berries are so naturally tart and acidic, you probably won’t want to nibble them “straight” as a snack. However, you can incorporate these crimson delicacies into recipes with a little creativity and imagination. For example, you can pair dried berries with roasted, lightly salted nuts to create a satisfying homemade trail mix or stir them – along with raspberries and strawberries – into yogurt. This trio of colorful berries can also add flavor, fiber, and antioxidants to oatmeal. (For best results, add during the last minute of cooking). Make a refreshing salsa by combining chopped fresh cranberries with minced red onion, jalapeno peppers, cilantro, lime juice, and a bit of honey to taste. You can also add fresh or dried berries to salads, sauces, and marinades. Another option is to freeze cranberries and use them as you would ice cubes, adding them to fruit punches or spritzes for a festive touch. Natural health experts say that cranberry juice offers health benefits but lacks the fiber found in whole berries. It’s best to limit yourself to two cups of cranberry juice a day. Opt for 100 percent cranberry juice and avoid “cocktails” or “juice blends” that may contain large amounts of sugar. Dried cranberries may also be loaded with sugar to make the taste more palatable. ClevelandClinic.org reports that one serving of dried cranberries can contain a stunning 25 grams of added sugars! To avoid taking in excessive sugars, always check the labels). As large amounts of cranberries can cause stomach upset and diarrhea, they should be consumed in moderation. They can also increase the risk of kidney stones in susceptible people. Full of antioxidants, fiber, and beneficial micronutrients, cranberries make a great addition to your healthy diet. Maybe it’s time to put these tarts, tiny fruits on the menu year-round! Sources for this article include: ScienceDaily.com ClevelandClinic.org To read the original article click here.

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Revitalizing Energizing Green Smoothie for the New Year

AHA Publisher — Tue, 29 Dec 2020 08:00:01 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – This time of year, it’s easy to feel fatigued and overwhelmed. It’s easy to set aside health goals, and just wait until the new year. But, there’s never been a better time to feel revitalized and energized! We’ve got an energizing green smoothie recipe that can help you stay on track and finish the year strong. In fact, this smoothie contains ingredients that can revitalize and help detoxify your body, from your cells to organs to everything in between. If you’ve indulged a bit too much this Holiday season, try this smoothie to detox and revitalize. If you’re just looking for more energy to finish out the year, try this smoothie for its energizing qualities. And, if you want a new recipe for a healthier new year, commit to this smoothie each day for one daytime meal, and see its wonderful effects on health and energy. Here’s how to make it, and how it can revitalize you! Revitalizing Energizing Green Smoothie for a New Year! Ingredients 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or canned coconut milk 1 scoop Keto Zone Fiber Zone 1 scoop Fermented Greens ® 1 cup spinach, kale, or mixed greens 1 scoop Red Supremefoods® 1 scoop Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Collagen 1/2 cup frozen cranberries (other berries are okay as well, but reduce other berries to 1/4 cup due to higher sugar content) water and ice as needed Instructions Place all ingredients in a blender. Mix well, adding water and/or ice to desired consistency. Makes one serving. Revitalizing and Energizing Foods 1. KETO ZONE FIBER ZONE If you want to revitalize and re-energize your body, start with a healthy digestive tract. The inulin and psyllium husk in Keto Zone Fiber Zone are two amazing fibers that support digestive health. In fact, both inulin and psyllium husk stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria. When these bacteria are healthy, yeast overgrowth is inhibited, and digestion improves. What’s more, healthy fibers and digestion directly support immune health (1, 2) and energy. 2. DIVINE HEALTH FERMENTED GREEN SUPREMEFOOD® WITH CHLOROPHYLL When it comes to energizing food, it’s hard to beat chlorophyll. In fact, this lifeblood of plants can do wonders in the human body as well. Chlorophyll acts similarly to hemoglobin in the human body, except it carries magnesium instead of iron (3). It supports immune health, digestive health, and liver health. It also works to alkalize the body and urine pH. This supports liver function and helps the body remove toxins like metals, pesticides, and more. Chlorophyll is found in most raw, live greens. Divine Health Fermented Green Supremefood® contains fermented greens and chlorophyll including alfalfa, kale, spirulina, wheatgrass, and more. The fermentation process makes the nutrients in these foods more bioavailable in the body. Thus, they deliver high amounts of nutrients and chlorophyll to the blood (4, 5). 3. BEETS AND BEET POWDER Beets are one of the most vibrantly colored vegetables around. Their beautiful hue comes from phytochemicals called betanins. But betanins are much more than a pretty color. They are the primary nutrient in beets and are responsible for their many health benefits (6). In fact, they fight free radicals, encourage reduced inflammation, and support the detoxification of the cells. What’s more, beets also support the production and work of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant our cells make to fight damaging substances. Beets also support the oxygenation of the body. This means energy! Beets contain natural nitrates that are converted to nitric oxides in the body. Nitric oxides dilate blood vessels, allowing more oxygen to circulate more efficiently. Nitric oxide may also increase muscle tissues’ ability to use oxygen (6). One of the best ways to get the power of beets, especially when following a low-carb diet, is through Divine Health Red Supremefoods®. 4. KETO ZONE HYDROLYZED COLLAGEN Keto Zone Hydrolyzed Collagen works throughout the body to support health, nutrient absorption, skin, and energy. In fact, it contains many forms of collagen, including types I, II, and III. This combination revitalizes and supports gut health, skin health, joint health, and immune function. In fact, many studies now show that a dose of ~10 grams per day of collagen supports skin elasticity, hydration, dermal collagen density, youthful appearance, reduced wrinkles, and less skin fragmentation (7, 8, 9, 10). What’s more, it supports joint health and movement so you can get out there and enjoy activities in the New Year! 5. CRANBERRIES Cranberries are an amazing superfood. In fact, this low-carb fruit is loaded with antioxidants and phytochemicals that help neutralize free radicals to support cellular health. In addition, whole cranberries, as opposed to juice or extracts, specifically support cardiovascular and liver health. They support healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and arterial flexibility (11). Together, a healthy cardiovascular system and arteries deliver blood, oxygen, and energizing nutrients to the body efficiently. Bottom Line A New Year calls for revitalization and new energy. Try our Energizing Green Smoothie. Of course, you don’t have to wait for 2021. You can choose to finish this year with great momentum and move into the healthiest year of your life. And if you’d like more ideas for detoxifying and revitalizing your body, join Dr. Colbert’s 21 Day Detox and Fast! New energy and new health for a New Year! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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