Digestion Archives - Amazing Health Advances

“Calm Down” Heartburn with this Natural Plant-Based Compound

The AHA! Team — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 05:57:11 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – With its spiky purple flowers and dull green leaves, milk thistle may appear to be nothing more than an ordinary weed growing wild in vacant lots and fields. Featuring ridged gray bark and deep green leaves, the slippery elm tree is a common presence in the hardwood forests of North America. But in its inner bark lies a secret. Holistic doctors believe that compounds from this ordinary-looking tree may offer an extraordinary gift – the ability to relieve the digestive complaint known as acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Slippery elm, treasured in indigenous American healing systems as a remedy for digestive upsets, has also attracted the attention of contemporary scientists. In a new report from the National Institutes of Health, researchers gave slippery elm a “thumbs-up” for its absence of adverse effects in clinical studies. To learn how this natural compound can help to safely and effectively quench the “fire inside,” read on. SHOCKING: 40 percent of all Americans experience GERD at least once a week GERD results from a backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus, which causes the classic burning sensation in the throat and upper chest. You may also experience nausea, difficulty swallowing, sour taste, and coughing. Unfortunately, GERD is extremely common. In a review published in 2022 in Nutrients, the authors cited a Cedars-Sinai study showing that an astonishing two out of every five Americans have GERD-like symptoms at least once a week. Western medicine often attempts to treat GERD with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as omeprazole, which is marketed under the brand name Prilosec. However, PPIs can feature toxic side effects. Long-term use heightens the risk of magnesium deficiencies, bone fractures, shortfalls in vitamin B-12, kidney disease, and intestinal infections. With consequences such as these, it’s no wonder that an increasing number of people with GERD are turning to natural interventions – such as slippery elm – for relief. Formula featuring slippery elm shows significant promise in combating GERD In an Australian clinical trial published in Nutritional Research, 12 weeks of slippery elm combined with curcumin, aloe vera, and other herbs significantly improved the frequency and severity of indigestion, heartburn, nausea, and abdominal pain in GERD patients. The participants also reported improved quality of life, higher energy levels, and better sleep quality. For good measure, the herbal formula improved the health of the gut microbiome by increasing beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus. Amazingly, by the study’s end, almost half the participants taking proton pump inhibitors for heartburn no longer required their medication. A sizable portion of the volunteers (about 33 percent) were even able to reintroduce common GERD “triggers” such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and caffeine into their diets. Although more studies can always be helpful, the researchers agree that slippery elm is a “promising ingredient” for relieving GERD. Why slippery elm is perfectly suited to soothing troubled digestive systems Slippery elm is rich in antioxidant phenolics, resins, and tannins that can help prevent tissue oxidative damage. However, its “secret weapon” against GERD is its high content of mucilage, a type of fiber that forms a gel-like substance in water. Mucilage gives slippery elm natural demulcent qualities (meaning that it can moisturize, hydrate, and protect tissues while relieving inflammation and irritation). In addition, slippery elm stimulates mucus production, which helps coat irritated tissues in the throat and stomach. Many holistic doctors maintain that slippery elm’s soothing and protective powers can help prevent ulcers. While more studies are needed, this natural compound may also hold promise as a natural intervention against a host of digestive disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulosis, “leaky gut,” and Crohn’s disease. Bonus benefit: Smooth and moisturize dry, itchy winter skin Slippery elm, botanically known as Ulmus rubra, is available as a supplement. You can find it in various convenient formulations, including powders, capsules, extracts, tinctures, lozenges, and tea bags. Choose a high-quality product that has been subject to third-party testing and is sold by a reputable vendor. Before trying slippery elm, consult your trusted holistic doctor – who can advise you on the proper amount to take. Slippery elm is also available in ointments and creams for topical use. Some holistic healthcare providers suggest these to address eczema, psoriasis, and rashes – or simply to soothe and pamper run-of-the-mill dry, itchy skin. If you’re tired of “feeling the burn” from acid reflux, maybe it’s time to try slippery elm. This drug-free herbal intervention just might tame the fire. Editor’s note: In case you’re wondering how much slippery elm to take for heartburn relief, typical amounts suggested are as follows: In powdered form mixed with water, tea or juice: 1 tablespoon, up to 3x / day 2 – 4, 380 mg lozenges can help provide relief For tea: 2–3 teaspoons of powder per one-cup serving, 1-2 cups / day And, finally, for capsules: 1,600 mg / day, divided in 2-3 servings / day Other natural heartburn remedies include: lemon water, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera juice, licorice and chamomile tea. Obviously, when in doubt, work with a trusted holistic healthcare provider or health coach to find what remedy works best for you. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Verywellhealth.com NIH.gov NIH.gov Healthline.com Mayoclinic.org NHS.uk To read the original article click here.

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Reviving the Ancient Healing Wisdom of Frankincense (Boswellia)

The AHA! Team — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 06:11:06 +0000

News Editors via Natural News – Frankincense oil may receive most of the fame and glory, but the humble Boswellia tree from which it is derived, can also create another powerful natural medicine. Oil and extracts of Boswellia have been used for thousands of years to treat numerous health conditions. (Article republished from GreenMedInfo.com) While many of us are familiar with the meditative, cleansing, and enchanting aromas of incense, the very word itself contains the powerful natural medicine from which it is derived. Frankincense, meaning “true incense” is a resin that comes from any tree species that belongs to the genus Boswellia. Spreading their branches through the Middle East, Africa, and India, this tree’s roots run deep in ancient usage and text. While all Boswellia species can produce frankincense, Boswellia serrata is the supernal species that is adorned in traditional medicinal systems like Ayurveda and Unani for producing exceptional extracts. Boswellia has a documented history of usage that dates back thousands of years Boswellia has a documented history of usage that dates back thousands of years, but it is quite possible this radical resin shared an evolutionary history with humans that greatly precludes our current estimates and archived paleoanthropological data. Just as fashion follows a circular cycle, with skinny jeans now the “newest rage”, so too is it time for a Boswellia revival and resurgence. Currently, there are 30 clinical studies on pubmed.gov, and 28 of those studies used B. serrata (the other 2 studies did not list a specific Boswellia species in their abstract). With a strong modern-day scientific backing, coupled with traditional use, Boswellia is a bright beacon pushing contemporary usage of natural medicines onward and upward. A few of its best-known therapeutic roles today include treating chronic health conditions like asthma, arthritis, cancer, and gastrointestinal issues. It has also been shown to reduce edema (swelling) from brain tumors after patients underwent radiotherapy [Kirste, 2011]. “RESULTS: Compared with baseline and if measured immediately after the end of radiotherapy and BS/placebo treatment, a reduction of cerebral edema of >75% was found in 60% of patients receiving BS and in 26% of patients receiving placebo (P = .023). These findings may be based on an additional antitumor effect. There were no severe adverse events in either group.” [Kirste, 2011] According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology in just 8 years (from 2001-2009), the prevalence of asthma jumped from 20 million people to 25 million people. That trend only seems to be increasing and if we extrapolate the data to 2017 there will be 30 million people with asthma, which is almost 10% of the population. Commonly used drugs, like inhaled corticosteroids or oral steroids may be effective, but at what cost? Serious long-term health consequences such as osteoporosis, cataracts, behavioral and mood changes, plus immunosuppression, are just to name a few [Dahl, 2006]. One of the reasons asthma is difficult to treat is because it involves an inflammatory enzyme pathway called the 5-LOX (arachidonate 5-lipoxygenase). Through a series of biochemical reactions, this enzyme produces substances called leukotrienes from the oxidation of lipid substrates, predominantly from arachidonic acid, a polyunsaturated omega-6 fatty acid [Safayhi, 2000]]. When leukotrienes are overly expressed, our immune system is excessively activated, and we enter a state of chronic inflammation, which can manifest as chronic diseases like asthma. One of the beautiful mechanisms by which Boswellia exhibits its benefits is through the prevention of degradation and oxidation to these fatty acids, thus reducing the inflammatory changes in the first place. Boswellia has also proven to be efficacious in other chronic illnesses like inflammatory bowel diseases. Collagenous colitis, which falls under the IBD umbrella, is characterized by chronic diarrhea and is typically treated with a polypharmacy approach. In a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind clinical study, B. serrata extract (BSE) was found to be superior in remission rates (63.6%) versus placebo (26.7%) after a six-week treatment [Madisch, 2007]. In a clinical study on chronic colitis, the remission rates were thirty percent higher in the Boswellia group (14 out of 20 patients) versus the anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical drug sulfasalazine (4 out of 10 patients) [Gupta, 2001]. In a clinical study on breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, a Boswellia cream was found to significantly reduce the skin-damaging side effects [Togni, 2015]. Radiotherapy can cause extreme irritation, inflammation, itching, pain, and redness, which can severely alter a patient’s quality of life [Shaitelman, 2015]. Managing these disruptive side effects is typically done with steroids to reduce the immune response, but why risk the consequences when Boswellia is a much safer alternative? While Boswellia extract may be a formidable force, so too are the volatile oils (essential oils) derived from the gummy resin. There are four main species of Boswellia There are four main species of Boswellia from which high-quality frankincense oils are extracted: B. sacra, B. carteri, B. frereana, and B. serrata. While the chemical constituents may vary by species, in general, frankincense oil contains beneficial terpene compounds (limonene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, camphene, myrcene) [Woolley, 2012]. Human data may currently be limited on essential oil applications, but animal and cellular studies have elucidated some of the mechanisms responsible for these anti-cancer properties. Frankincense oil has demonstrated cytotoxic, apoptotic, and anti-proliferative properties against various cancer cell lines, including pancreatic cancer (which generally has an overall survival rate in humans of less than five years) [Ni, 2012]. Without applying reductionist principles to the innate wisdom of this plant, Boswellia probably has countless ways by which it improves health and restore balance. Whether you prefer a Boswellia extract or frankincense essential oil – caveat emptor (buyer beware) – as the purity and efficacy of products can vary greatly. Make sure to do your research and work with a company you know and trust. Read more at: GreenMedInfo.com To read the original article, click here

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Is Flatulence Good for You? (Does It Depend on the Smell?)

The AHA! Team — Mon, 13 May 2024 08:00:18 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Most of us have been there: experiencing excessive farting that feels out of our control and causes a whole heck of a lot of embarrassment. While the average person farts nearly every day, some people deal with a bloated stomach and excessive flatulence more often than others. One of the most aggravating things about having gas is that it can seem impossible to minimize and to narrow down the exact culprit, considering dozens of different things can potentially be to blame. As you’ve probably experienced firsthand many times, some farts can be pretty foul-smelling and noisy, while others easily slip below the radar. Wondering how much farting is too much? A mostly healthy person might pass gas 14–18 times per day, sometimes not even realizing it because the farts are mostly silent and odorless. A mostly healthy person might pass gas 14–18 times per day Rather than how often you fart, however, you might want to take a look at the smelliness of your flatulence and to examine other digestive symptoms present in order to determine if it’s really become a problem. Is there likely anything to be worried about when it comes to your gas? Yes and no. Some flatulence is normal, especially when eating a whole foods, high-fiber diet — but excessive gas coupled with other symptoms can be a sign that something inside is going wrong, especially when it comes to digestion of certain foods. Too much farting can be a warning sign that normal intestinal gas dynamics have become compromised. This might result in subtle dysfunctions in intestinal motility, bacteria growth or changes in the microbiome composition taking place. Keep reading to learn more about flatulence and when you should and should not be concerned about your farts. What Is Flatulence? What is a fart exactly? A fart, also called gas, “passing wind” or flatulence, is caused by the internal buildup of gases that are formed during the process of digestion and respiration. The causes of farts, and how they develop within the digestive tract vary considerably depending on the person and circumstance. The main type of gas that gets trapped inside the body and leads to flatulence is nitrogen, which researchers estimate accounts for about 20 percent to 90 percent of all the gas that causes farts. Followed by nitrogen, carbon dioxide also contributes to the gaseous volume of farts (about 10 percent to 30 percent) along with oxygen (up to 10 percent), methane (around 10 percent) and hydrogen (about 10 percent to 50 percent). Methane and hydrogen are actually both flammable gases — which explains why you might have seen some cartoon characters light their farts with a flame when you were a kid. The combination of gases described above usually causes a smell because some contain sulfur, the same smelly compound found in foods like eggs or cruciferous vegetables. Why is there such a range in the percentages of gases within a fart and the level of smelliness, depending on the specific person? This has to do with how much air is swallowed by someone in a typical day, the types of foods within someone’s diet, and also the internal chemical reactions taking place within the microbiome or intestines during digestion. The severity of smells associated with flatulence mostly has to do with the percentage of different gases present in the body at any given time. Surprisingly, most of the gas within a fart is odorless, and only a very small percent (around 1 percent) causes the signature foul smell of farts. The reason for stinkiness in general comes down to how much sulfurous gasses form within the intestines. Within a fart, several sulfur-related compounds develop that contribute to the intensity of the fart’s smell. These include: Hydrogen sulphide: This is the component of a fart that usually smells like rotten eggs. Not only does it smell unpleasant, but it’s also flammable and can be toxic when consumed in large amounts. The human body makes some of its own hydrogen sulphide, but interestingly, it’s also produced within the environment in things like swamps, sewage systems and certain types of explosive volcanic rock. Methanethiol: This is found naturally within the human body, mostly within the blood and brain. Ever open up your refrigerator and get a strong whiff of leftover veggies? Methanethiol has a strong smell similar to cruciferous veggies, including broccoli or cabbage. This same compound also contributes to other types of body odors, including bad breath. Dimethyl sulphide: Here’s another chemical compound that contributes to the smelliness of veggies. This is responsible for the smell produced when you cook things like Brussels sprouts. It’s present in foods along with methanethiol and created from the formation of certain bacteria. Causes You’re probably wondering what causes your gas accumulation, right? Excessive gas and gas pains can be attributed to all sorts of health problems, normal variations in hormonal levels that affect digestion (such as your menstrual cycle) or specific foods. While the triggers are somewhat different from person to person, the way that gas forms in the body is mostly the same. Within the body, gas travels down the same pathway in your digestive system as poop does. Eventually, accumulated gas makes its way to through your intestines and out of your colon, just like feces. Along the way, certain things can stop or interfere with the normal release of built-up gas, causing gas pains, bloating and indigestion. This unpleasant feeling is a sign that you’re having a hard time ridding your body of excess gas — possibly because certain foods in your diet are irritating your gut or digestive organs, causing side effects like bacteria growth or fermentation along the way. Bloating and gas usually go hand in hand because when a certain amount of gas is retained within the gut, people develop abdominal distension (a puffy belly) and various gassy symptoms. Just like farting, abdominal distension is related to the volume of gas within the gut and depends both on intestinal motor activity (gas is better tolerated when the gut and digestive muscles are relaxed) and the inner distribution of gas. Some of the reasons gas gets trapped inside the body abnormally include: Swallowing air (aerophagia): This involves inadvertently swallowing air that accumulates in the stomach and is then released by belching or farting. This process is triggered by changes in the muscles that control the intake of air, followed by repetitive and ineffective attempts of belching that causes air to be introduced into the stomach. One reason you might be swallowing air and farting as a consequence? You could be eating too fast and therefore not chewing your food properly. Gaseous odor accumulation: Smelly farts are usually the cause of gas produced by colonic bacteria during fermentation of unabsorbed food residues arriving into the colon. Changes in the microflora: Gas also depends on the composition of the colonic flora — in other words the type of bacteria living within the digestive system. We know that each person is different in terms of microbiome composition, which means inter-individual variations exist that might contribute to, or protect us from, excessive gas production and evacuation. Constipation: Impaired anal evacuation produces gas retention. Constipation also prolongs the fermentation process of foods in the digestive system, increasing internal gas production. Here’s the million-dollar question: Why do some farts make a noticeable sound, while others are “silent but deadly”? This has to do with the alignment of muscles within your colon or rectum. Certain muscles help control how quickly gas is released, either tightly keeping gases inside or allowing them to be released more quickly, which can cause a sound. Know someone who can “fart on demand”? That’s likely because that person’s sphincter muscles, the ones that control the gateway of gas and waste out of the body, are easily relaxed, which lets them release internal gases whenever they want to. Of course, diet has an effect on flatulence as well, and underlying conditions can contribute to gas and farting. Are Farts Bad for You (or Beneficial)? Farting is considered a normal reaction within the human body and something we all deal with at one time or another. Because it’s the act of releasing internal gas from the body, just like a burp or even breathing, it’s usually harmless and in fact needed for normal metabolic functions. Most of the time your farts are just inconvenient but not something to necessarily get riled up about. In fact, they might even be protective in some instances! That’s right — your farts might be a clue that your “gut bugs” are well-fed and working hard and that your diet is a mostly healthy one. Diets high in fiber-rich foods after all tend to cause gas, but they also feed good bacteria that make up your immune system and help protect you from various diseases, like heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity. Aside from being a sign that you’re eating plenty of fiber, gases within your farts might even be beneficial. Farts contain hydrogen sulphide, a gas produced by certain natural bodily processes and needed as part of cellular functions. While I wouldn’t necessarily go smelling yours, or anyone else’s, farts just yet, it’s possible that inhaling hydrogen sulphide (yes, from your very own farts!) in small doses might help protect cells’ mitochondria and stop cellular damage at some level. On the other hand, excessive farting can be a sign that digestive processes are going amuck and that an underlying issue might be blame. Some underlying reasons for excessive gas accumulation can include: food sensitives or intolerances (see the list of common culprits below) fermentation of bacteria within the gut from eating FODMAP foods leaky gut syndrome or digestive disorders, including Crohn’s, celiac disease and irritable bowel syndrome constipation SIBO (small intestinal bacteria overgrowth)/excessive bacteria in the small intestine. Normally food intermingles with digestive juices in the intestines and nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream while waste is sent to the colon, but with SIBO, malabsorption occurs, particularly of fat-soluble vitamins and iron, leading to abnormal bacteria growth and gas. How do you know if your gas is something to actually be worried about? Check if you experience other warning signs at the same time as being very gassy. When you’re up against a lot of flatulence, look for other abnormal symptoms including: weakness or fatigue skin rashes, acne or hives signs of allergies, like watery eyes and itchy throat constipation or diarrhea blood in your stool or urine pain around your lymph nodes, including in your groin, throat or armpits changes in your body temperature, weight, sleep and menstrual cycle Natural Remedies If you find yourself repeatedly dealing with bad gas, the first thing to do is address your diet. You might be having trouble breaking down certain foods or experiencing an accumulation of sulfur, bacteria or yeast. The tendency for foods to cause excessive gas varies from person to person considerably, so it usually takes some trial and error to figure out what your biggest triggers are. That being said, there are some “common culprits” in the world of farting that are likely involved in your struggle. Some of the Worst Foods for Gas Beans: Perhaps more than any other food, beans are notorious for causing gas. That’s because they contain a type of carbohydrate called polysaccharides, which easily ferment once they enter the gut. The bacteria living in your gut thrive off of these carbohydrates, which causes fermentation and an increase in gas. Luckily you don’t have to avoid beans and legumes all together — soaking them overnight prior to cooking helps make them more digestible (the same applies to nuts, which are similar in terms of their carb content), which is good news considering they can provide plenty of nutrients and fiber. Dairy: Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem worldwide, although many people might be unaware that they cannot properly digest foods containing milk, cheese, yogurt or traces of...

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Combat the Signs of Aging With Oils of This Spicy Mediterranean Shrub

AHA Publisher — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 08:00:09 +0000

Wendy Miller via NaturalHealth365 – The curry plant (Helichrysum italicum) is part of the daisy family and has proven medicinal properties. People who live near the Mediterranean, where the plant grows naturally, have used the curry plant for hundreds of years. Recent studies have proven that the plant’s essential oils have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and other properties. In addition to offering aromatherapy benefits and culinary uses, the oils of the curry plant can slow down the aging process and help improve overall general health. Curry Plant Contains Powerful Compounds That Help Deter Skin Aging The curry plant contains 78 different compounds that make up over 98% of the entire composition of the essential oil. The essential oil from the curry plant can slow down the actions of two enzymes that speed up the aging process. Both collagenase and elastase are responsible for breaking down fibers in the skin that control elasticity and recoil. With the body’s ability to maintain collagen and elastin, the skin can remain flexible and elastic, slowing down the formation of wrinkles and lines and keeping your facial features smooth and soft. But Wait, That’s Not All! Curry Plant Also Improves Digestion Curry essential oils also slow down the aging process by improving digestion. When the body can better utilize the nutrients it receives from the foods you eat, the skin and connective tissues can remain pliable and resilient. Many of the oils, vitamins, and minerals you consume in your food are damaged before being absorbed and used by the body. Curry relieves digestive issues making the process much more efficient. Here Is How the Curry Plant Speeds Up Wound Healing Curry essential oil also contains components that speed up the blood clotting process. When blood can clot efficiently, wounds will heal much faster. Depending on where the wound is, it may take longer to heal. Curry essential oils can speed up the process. Since curry essential oil also allows the body’s collagen and elastin fibers to remain intact, wounds can heal much faster and with less scarring. In addition, the skin is stronger and more resilient, making it more resistant to lines and wrinkles. Fight Infections and Skin Aging With This Potent Essential Oil Curry essential oil is quite effective at treating various types of skin conditions, including contact dermatitis and yeast infections. Skin conditions can speed up the aging process, especially if they disrupt the way collagen and elastin function. By keeping the skin strong and free from infections, curry essential oil can slow down the aging process and, at the same time, keep your skin healthy and vibrant. Healthy skin has an abundance of collagen and elastin that allows the skin to resist the formation of wrinkles and lines. What’s the Bottom Line? For centuries, people from the Mediterranean have used the curry plant as food and medicine. With studies available to prove the effectiveness of the plant’s essential oil properties, you can use it with confidence when trying to keep your skin young and vibrant. If you are considering giving curry plant oil a try to tap into its anti-aging benefits, be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin. Sources for this article include: Herbs.news Healthline.com HeritageGarden.uic.edu To read the original article click here.

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ATTENTION Diabetics: These 3 Popular Spices Can Help Manage Your Blood Sugar

AHA Publisher — Mon, 11 Oct 2021 07:00:09 +0000

Michelle Marks via NaturalHealth365 – Did you know that there are organic spices for diabetics that can help manage your blood sugar better? It is easy to add to any recipe and gives plenty of nutrients and specific health benefits. Many studies suggest that merely half a teaspoon of cinnamon a day can significantly reduce excess blood sugar levels. But before you run to the health food store to buy cinnamon, don’t forget to add fenugreek, coriander, and clove seeds. These spices give you that extra kick of flavor while, at the same time, helping to stabilize your energy level. Multiple Studies Confirm Fenugreek’s Ability to Regulate Blood Sugar Levels Fenugreek seeds contain many natural compounds, but research has identified that the phytonutrient galactomannan and amino acid 4 – hydroxyisoleucine are responsible for its glucose-lowering effect. Many lab studies have confirmed the beneficial effects of fenugreek in lowering blood sugar in type-2 diabetics. In a study on human subjects with mild type-2 diabetes, consumption of fenugreek extract for two months decreased the blood sugar levels and was less insulin resistant than the placebo group. In another study, published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 50 grams of fenugreek seed powder consumed twice daily decreased the fasting blood sugar level, improved glucose tolerance, and reduced the urinary glucose output by 54% in type-1 diabetics. In addition to this – it also decreased the total cholesterol, signs indicating its usefulness in managing diabetes and treating its complications. There is no recommended amount of fenugreek, however, clinical studies have used 5 grams of seeds or a gram of the powder per day. Spices for Diabetics Can Improve Insulin Sensitivity and Digestion Although coriander and cilantro belong to the same family, coriander leaves and seeds offer more significant benefits than cilantro. Coriander seeds contain two volatile oils – linalool and geranyl acetate – potent antioxidants that work at a cellular level. Lab studies have shown that coriander seed extracts decreased plasma glucose, improved insulin sensitivity, and improved serum lipid levels in animal models. Another study showed that 200 mg/kg of coriander seed extracts significantly increased the activity of insulin-secreting beta cells compared to the diabetic control animals. In a human study reported in Digestive Diseases and Sciences, researchers observed that coriander (seed) powder decreased the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic digestive complaint. Study participants reported a greater absence of bloating, pain, and constipation compared to the placebo group. Lower Blood Glucose and Cholesterol Levels with Cloves Cloves are rich in antioxidants anthocyanins and quercetin plus high in an active component called eugenol and is also an excellent source of manganese, a good source of omega-3 fats, vitamins C, K, fiber and minerals calcium, magnesium. In addition, this spice is a natural antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic. In one study, 30 type-2 diabetics were given capsules containing 0, 1, 2, or 3 grams of cloves each day – for a month – to observe the serum glucose levels. Study authors found that serum glucose dropped from 225 to 150 mg/dl, significantly dropping triglyceride, total cholesterol, and LDL levels. Therefore, researchers suggested that consuming 1 to 3 grams of cloves per day is beneficial for people with type-2 diabetes to better manage their glucose and total cholesterol levels. It is always best not to focus on one spice alone; adding a variety of spices to season your food doubles its medicinal value. Naturally, for best results, always work with an experienced healthcare provider or health coach about the best nutritional advice for you – especially if you have diabetes. Sources for the article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Faseb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com To read the original article click here.

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Eat More of This Potent Youthful Antioxidant (Hint: It’s Already in Your Kitchen)

AHA Publisher — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 07:00:16 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – There’s an extremely potent and youthful antioxidant setting in your kitchen right now. You may even eat it daily. But, did you know that consistent consumption of it may support healthy joints, healthy cholesterol levels and heart health, and even healthy aging? It’s true! Black peppercorns are one of the most common spices in the world, and they can make a world of difference in your health. Here’s how they promote youthfulness and how you can consume more each day. 9 Youthful Antioxidant Properties of Black Peppercorn 1. HIGH IN ANTI-AGING ANTIOXIDANTS First things first, black peppercorns are extremely high in antioxidants. As you likely know, free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage and age your cells and tissues. Antioxidants neutralize them. In fact, black pepper is rich in a plant compound called piperine. In studies, piperine has been found to help or delay the damaging effects of free radicals (1, 2). 2. REDUCED SENSE OF PAIN AND JOINT STIFFNESS Piperine is also a strong joint-health nutrient. In fact, study after study has shown reduced pain, increased healing, and reduced progress of arthritic outcomes in animals and humans (1). What’s more, piperine increases the absorption of another pain-fighting food, turmeric, by up to 10x. It does this by stimulating “transporters” in our intestines that are responsible for absorbing nutrients. Your joints can feel more youthful with black peppercorns! 3. HEALTHY DIGESTION Black pepper stimulates the release of hydrochloric acid in our stomachs, which promotes timely and healthy digestion. Without adequate amounts, or with high acid levels at the wrong times, many folks suffer from food sitting in their stomachs too long, heartburn, and indigestion. 4. OPTIMAL CHOLESTEROL LEVELS Did you know that harmful cholesterol plaques require free radicals to form? What’s more, we must be wary of plaques and arterial stiffness each year we age. LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) needs free radical oxidation in order to form harmful plaques and blockages. High-antioxidant foods reduce oxidation. And, black peppercorns are one such food. In fact, black peppers have an ORAC score (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) of 34,053 μ mol TE/100g…above chili powder, raspberries, walnuts, and blueberries. 5. FIERY METABOLISM Another aspect of life we’d love to stay youthful? Our metabolisms! Each year we age, metabolism falters if we don’t proactively nourish our bodies and build muscle. In addition, like other peppers, black peppercorns cause our bodies to burn slightly more calories as a mechanism for controlling the “heat” in them. It’s only a small shift, but it can add up. In addition, spicy foods work to help you control portions. In studies, eating spicy foods leads to less consumption overall. 6. FLATTER YOUTHFUL BELLY AND REDUCED BLOATING Black peppercorns can also reduce bloating and fluid retention. This is a great advantage after any situation that causes your body to retain fluid. These include: Sickness Kidney or liver impairment Overconsumption of salty and/or sugary foods Hot weather Injury Walking, standing, or working on feet Indigestion How? Similar to the nutrients in celery, black pepper’s antioxidants work as a gentle diuretic that reduces extra water held in our intestines. 7. FIGHT CELLULAR OVERGROWTH There have actually been many studies in which piperine is used to fight cellular carcinogenic overgrowth. Most of these studies have been performed in labs, not humans or animals. Nonetheless, the studies have shown promising results. One 2017 study from Thailand revealed that two phytochemicals in peppercorn had potent anti-overgrowth effects on three types of harmful cells (3). Additionally, another 2017 study showed that piperine suppressed these cells from growing, invading, and spreading (4). 8. YOUTHFUL HEART FUNCTION Piperine is a youthful antioxidant that provides many heart-healthy benefits. In lab studies, these include reduced fibrosis pathology, reduced LDL cholesterol, and cardiovascular cell protection from oxidative stress (5). 9. BRAIN HEALTH Piperine has been shown to support brain function in animal studies. Specifically, piperine may benefit symptoms related to degenerative brain and memory issues (6, 7). Two rodent studies, in particular, have shown that piperine supports healthy memory and brain function. What’s more, it may decrease the formation of amyloid plaques (dense clumps of damaging protein fragments associated with brain degeneration) (8, 9). Human studies are still needed to confirm these results. How to Eat More Youthful Antioxidants from Black Peppercorns First, remember that whole, intact foods are almost always better. With black pepper, it’s best to buy the whole peppercorns and eat them whole when cooked or grind them just before eating or cooking with them. Powdered and pre-ground pepper has often lost many of its benefits, and the taste just doesn’t compare. 5 WAYS TO GET MORE BLACK PEPPERCORN Add to your morning brew! These may seem a bit strange, but the spicy flavor of fresh ground black pepper is delicious in coffee. Add black peppercorn to your eggs. This one’s a no-brainer. Pepper plus eggs is perfect. Mix it into your smoothie. Another new one! Pepper can bring a different, delicious flavor to almost any drink or meal. Try whole peppercorn recipes such as our Slow-Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken. Add to any Golden Milk to increase absorption. Again, piperine improves the absorption of curcumin, so make sure you add it to golden milk. And, when shopping for turmeric supplements, look for piperine as an ingredient. You’ll find it in this extra potent turmeric supplement! MORE GREAT SOURCES OF YOUTHFUL ANTIOXIDANTS In addition, you can find youthful antioxidant nutrients in many vibrant fruits, vegetables, and spices. Try: Dr. Colbert’s Oleocanthal (an amazingly potent antioxidant from extra virgin olive oil) Divine Health Organic Fermented Green Supremefood® Divine Health Organic Red Supremefood® BOTTOM LINE You don’t need to go out and spend a fortune on this youthful antioxidant. Look on your counter, and add black peppercorn to your foods and drinks throughout the day! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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3 Tricks to Improve Digestion Today

AHA Publisher — Wed, 09 Jun 2021 07:00:22 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Are you in the majority? Believe it or not, the majority of Americans want to improve digestion since they experience digestive issues on a monthly (or more frequent) basis. In fact, according to the National Institutes for Health, 60-70 million Americans are affected by all digestive illnesses (1). Surveys also suggest that over 70% of adults suffer from diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, constipation, and more at least monthly. Is it really that surprising? Our digestive tracts have a really big job, every day. They never get a break. They are one of the only organs bombarded daily with external substances. In fact, they are in the initial filter by which most of our body interacts with outside substances. Like the lungs, they come in direct contact with both healthy and unhealthy substances from our environment. Think about the filters in your home or vehicles. They get dirty, beat up, and torn down. The same can happen to your digestive tract if not properly cared for. The digestive tract is also really large. It includes about 7 digestion organs (the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (aka colon), rectum, and anus) and 4 digestion accessory organs (the salivary glands, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver) (2). The tract itself covers a surface area of about 400-500 square feet (3). Interestingly, this number has been reduced from an estimate of 2500-3000 square feet to 400-500 in just the last 10 years after new evidence emerged that it is smaller than previously thought. In other words, there’s a lot to this system of organs, it does a lot of work every day, and a lot can go wrong. How can you improve digestion today? Here are 3 tricks to get started. Trick #1 to Improve Digestion: Use Your Brain Amazingly, there is a strong brain-gut connection. In fact, as digestive health falters or becomes inflamed, the brain experiences inflammation. This may look like brain fog, memory loss, fatigue, and even invite neurodegenerative issues. In fact, a recent study published in Scientific Reports showed a link between gut bacteria and dementia (4). On the flip side, as brain health falters, the digestive tract is affected and often impaired. Stress, for example, can ignite a series of digestive issues from ulcers to diarrhea to nausea. Why do we “feel things in our guts?” It’s the brain-gut connection. To improve digestion, then, do everything you can to support brain health. Try to: Reduce stress as much as possible through activity reduction, journaling, praying, etc. Incorporate laughter into your everyday schedule Get 7-10 hours of good-quality sleep every night Eat brain-healthy, anti-inflammatory foods like omega-3s from seafood, spices, and supplementseach day Hydrate well Incorporate fasting into your diet To learn more ways to support brain health, see our 11 Top Tips. Trick #2: Eliminate and Fortify with Nutrition Simply put, some foods and nutrients damage your gut. Some fortify it. The more we damage our guts, the more digestive issues arise, and more and more foods become intolerable to it. In some cases, food simply does not “set well” in our guts. In other cases, the food or nutrient actually hurt. This can lead to inflammation and a cascade of digestive issues. On the other hand, there are many foods that fortify both the healthy bacteria and cells in our guts. Most of these foods contain soluble fibers (prebiotics) and healthy bacteria (probiotics). To improve digestion, eliminate or reduce: Inflammatory carbohydrates such as sugars and white flours (consider the Keto Zone Diet) Sugary drinks Gluten, if not tolerated (in some people, gluten actually harms and flattens the tissues in the digestive tract responsible for nutrient absorption) Processed foods, especially those with inflammatory fats like soybean oil Alcohol Foods and medications with antibiotics (when not indicated) To improve digestion incorporate: Fermented foods such as plain yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, tempeh, fermented vegetable powders like Greens Supremefoods©, and living foods like Living Chia with Probiotics Vegetables and plant foods that provide prebiotics and polyphenols and living vitamins Plant-based protein powders such as Divine Health Vegan Protein Supremefood© Nuts like walnuts, which support healthy gut bacteria, every day (5) A daily probiotic supplement such as Beyond Biotics Ultra Blend Probiotics To learn more, read our post on the health benefits of fiber and tips to improve gut bacteria. Improve Digestion Trick #3: Slow Down and Look Up Are you a victim of the rush, rush, rush mentality? Are you overscheduled and burnt out? Do you have little time to cook at home and focus on foods that improve digestion? If so, your busy lifestyle is likely hurting your digestion. If you can find ways to slow down, you’ll have time to really utilize tricks #1 and #2 to improve digestion and brain health. It’s challenging to slow down in the midst of many demands, but it’s incredibly important. What can you do to simplify your life and leave the hustle and bustle of the modern stressed-out schedule? How can you make more foods at home (even simple foods such as grilled chicken or an easy slow cooker meal)? Can you clear your schedule and allow for more downtime? Non-activity time? Time outside in nature or in a garden? How can you incorporate daily gratitude, optimism, and prayer within your family? Even if you can only think of one thing you can do to slow down and look up within nutrition and pace of life, you can improve digestion and brain health! Take a few moments to jot down ways you can do so today. Get the Best Plan to Improve Digestion If you are ready to really improve digestion and overall health, it’s time to get Dr. Colbert’s Healthy Gut Zone book or the Healthy Gut Zone Starter Kit (includes the Healthy Gut Zone book, Fiber Zone supplement, and the Beyond Biotics digestive supplement) today. You’ll find a clear plan that supports digestion, improved overall health, and additional protection for your brain. What’s more, Dr. Colbert’s fiber and probiotic supplements utilize the best fibers and bacteria strains that support optimal gut health. Bottom Line The digestive tract is amazing. It takes substances outside our bodies and breaks them down for energy, fuel, and nutrients within our entire bodies. It is strongly linked to our brains, and every other system depends on it. You can support digestion and overall health, starting today, with these 3 tricks. What’s more, a great digestion health plan is only a click away! Get your Dr. Colbert’s Healthy Gut Zone book or theHealthy Gut Zone Starter Kit. Learn how to support digestive health in every area of your life, from stress to lifestyle to sleep to nutrition. The entirety of your health depends on your gut. Get started today! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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High Blood Pressure? Try This…

AHA Publisher — Mon, 26 Apr 2021 07:00:36 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Need help with high blood pressure? A new study shows that a high fiber diet can improve high blood pressure in those with type 2 diabetes. In fact, it was linked to a significant improvement in brachial-ankle pulse velocity, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure. Unfortunately, most Americans fall far short of getting the recommended 20+ grams of fiber per day (1). But, as you’ll see, eating enough fiber is not difficult and affords many health benefits. Here’s what the study found, why it’s important, and how you can use fiber to improve your health. The Study: High Fiber Diet and High Blood Pressure Researchers studied the effects of a high fiber diet on 200 participants. The participants also had type 2 diabetes, the mean age of 50, and were overweight according to body mass index (Reference: Kapoor R, et al. Abstract P528. Presented at ACC Middle East Conference; Oct. 3-5, 2019; Dubai, United Arab Emirates). Each patient was given a diet prescription, monitored for compliance, and was followed for 6 months. The Results: High Fiber Diet and High Blood Pressure The participants with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, who followed a high-fiber, low-glycemic index diet showed significant improvements in cardiovascular disease markers. In fact, the following markers improved: Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity Systolic blood pressure Diastolic blood pressure Serum cholesterol Waist-hip ratio Other Fiber Benefits Of course, fiber has other benefits in addition to improving high blood pressure. It can help with weight loss and fullness, blood sugars, triglycerides, healthy bacteria colonies in the gut, digestion and more (2, 3). How to Get More Fiber in Your Diet It’s actually not too hard to get more fiber, 25+ grams per day, in your diet. You can get good amounts by adding: Green and vegetables (3 servings will provide 6-9 grams) Nuts like walnuts, almonds, and more (2 servings will provide 4-6 grams) Seeds, especially chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp heart seeds (2 servings will provide 4-6 grams) Beans and legumes (1 serving will provide 3-4 grams) Fruits like berries (1 serving will provide 2-3 grams) If you eat grains, make sure they are whole or intact grains, such as whole oats (1 serving of steel-cut oats provides 4 grams) Fiber supplements like inulin and psyllium husk (one supplemental servings typically provides 5-8 grams fiber) More Ways to Lower Blood Pressure If you currently have high blood pressure, start by adding more fiber to your diet. You can also improve it by: Eating just 1-2 servings of berries per day, specifically blueberries. Blueberries have been shown to improve high blood pressure (4). Lose weight. This may sound easier said than done, but following Keto Zone diet will help you lose weight and keep it off (5). Exercise regularly and get heart rate up. When you exercise and increase your heart rate, it helps your arteries stay more elastic. Elastic, flexible arteries are vital to healthy blood pressure. What’s more, your flexibility and specifically trunk flexibility has a bearing on blood pressure. So, stay flexible for healthy arteries (6). Limit alcohol and quit smoking. Reduce stress. Here are everyday habits to reduce cortisol and stress. Bottom Line This study brings great news to those who suffer from high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. It’s not difficult to add fiber, as long as you’re proactive and choosy with foods. And best of all, fiber can improve whole-body health. Choose a high fiber, low-sugar diet, and practice heart-healthy habits starting today. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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8 Science-Backed Benefits of Brussels Sprouts (Easter Brunch Recipe Included)

AHA Publisher — Thu, 01 Apr 2021 07:00:01 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Just ask any kid and they’ll tell you that Brussels sprouts must be healthy. After one glance they know – Brussels Sprouts scream healthy food! But what do they do in the body? The kids are right. Brussels Sprouts do many amazing healthful things in the body including reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, cancer risk, osteoporosis, and more. Here are 8 Science-Backed Benefits of Brussels Sprouts and 1 amazing Easter Brunch Recipe. Keto Zone Bacon Brussels Sprouts for Easter Brunch Ingredients 1 1/2 pounds Brussels sprouts washed and dried 4 ounces (120 g) diced bacon or pancetta 1/4 cup avocado oil or olive oil 4 cloves garlic crushed or finely chopped 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper Instructions Preheat the oven to 425°F. Grease large baking sheet with a small amount of oil or butter. Trim the ends of sprouts and cut in half lengthwise. Add Brussel Sprouts, bacon, and garlic to the pan. Drizzle with oil and season with salt and pepper. Stir or toss the mixture well and spread into a single layer. Roast the sprouts, stirring once midway through cooking, until tender with charred edges (about for 25-30 minutes). Toss again and serve immediately. Serves 6. Nutrition info (per serving): 214 calories, 16 gm fat, 5 gm net carbs (10 grams carbs, 5 gm fiber), 10 gm protein 8 Science-Backed Benefits of Brussels Sprouts 1. HIGH IN FIBER When you see a Brussels Sprout, you may automatically think of fiber. And, you’d be right. For every cup of cooked Brussels Sprouts, you’ll get 4 grams of health-promoting fiber. Brussel Sprout’s fiber can: Promote healthy digestion and relieve constipation (1) Feed the healthy bacteria in your small intestine promote whole-body health (2) Reduce the risk of heart disease and high blood sugars (3, 4) 2. HIGH IN VITAMIN K A nutrient that you don’t see? Vitamin K. Vitamin K is important because it plays vital roles in blood clotting and bone health in the body. Amazingly, Brussels Sprouts contain 274% of your daily vitamin K needs in just 1 cup cooked. There are two forms of vitamin K: Vitamin K1 is the most well-known, and essential for blood coagulation. This is the formation of clots so that cuts and injuries stop bleeding (5). Due to this function, it’s important for anyone on blood thinners to be aware of high Vitamin K foods like Brussels sprouts in their diets. Vitamin K2 plays a role in bone growth, bone health, and protection against osteoporosis, especially during menopause (6). 3. HIGH IN VITAMIN C When you think of vitamin C, you may think of citrus fruits, tomatoes, an even broccoli. But, did you know that 1 cup of cooked Brussels Sprouts provides 162% of your daily vitamin C needs? Vitamin C plays a multitude of roles in the body. It: Improves the growth and repair of tissues in the body Aides the production of proteins like collagen (7) May improve immunity (8) Improves iron absorption by up to 67% (9) Vitamin C is a powerful nutrient, and Brussels Sprouts are loaded with it. 4. ANTIOXIDANT POWERHOUSE Most fruits and vegetables have antioxidants, but certain ones stand out. Brussel Sprouts’ antioxidants stand out. In fact, Brussels sprouts are high in a special antioxidant, called kaempferol. Kaempferol has been extensively studied and found to: Reduce antioxidative stress in cells up to 28% (10) Potentially reduce cancer cell growth Reduce whole-body inflammation Improve heart health (11, 12, 13) 5. POTENTIAL CANCER PROTECTION Beyond the antioxidant-cancer protection, other components of Brussels Sprouts make it a potential cancer fighter. In fact, they also contain nutrients that promote detoxification enzymes. One small study showed a 15-30% increase in these enzymes activity with Brussels Sprout consumption (14). What’s more, Brussels Sprouts’ ability to neutralize free radicals plays a direct role in cancer protection. The compounds formed by oxidative stress likely play a role in chronic diseases like cancer (15). 6. INFLAMMATION REDUCTION As we’ve discussed in previous posts, inflammation is a healthy part of the body’s immune response. However, chronic whole-body inflammation, which is influenced by diet, lifestyles, and weight, can contribute to many chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease (29). Brussels Sprouts may reduce chronic inflammation. In fact, studies show that cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels Sprouts are associated with lower levels of inflammatory markers in the blood (16). What’s more, kaempferol has anti-inflammatory functions as well as antioxidant ones (17). 7. HEALTHY BLOOD SUGAR LEVELS As a cruciferous vegetable, Brussels Sprouts also play a role in keeping blood sugars healthy. In fact, many studies have linked increased intake of cruciferous vegetables, including Brussels sprouts, to a decreased risk of diabetes (18). Likely, this is due to the fiber and low-carbohydrate level of Brussel Sprouts, making it a great Keto Zone food. But in addition, they also contain alpha-lipoic acid, which improves blood sugars and insulin levels in the body (19). 8. DIINDOLYLMETHANE PRODUCER As outlined in our article on DIM, DIM is a powerful compound that is produced when we eat cruciferous vegetables such as Brussels Sprouts. DIM can help balance hormones, especially during menopause, by: Improving the Metabolism of Estrogen Influencing the Production of “good” estrogens vs. “bad” estrogens Reducing the conversion of Testosterone to Estrogen Providing Anti-Cancer and Anti-Virus Properties Improving Skin Health and Weight Loss DIM is a powerful hormone-balancer, you can increase your levels by increasing cruciferous vegetable consumption and/or using a supplement such as Hormone Zone. Bottom Line Upon first glance, most anyone could tell you that Brussels Sprouts must be healthy. And, they are! There are many science-backed health benefits of Brussel Sprouts. And, with our delicious Keto Zone Bacon Brussels Sprouts recipe, it’s easy to get them all! To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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