endocrine system Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Antacids May Improve Blood Sugar Control in People with Diabetes

AHA Publisher — Wed, 30 Jun 2021 07:00:36 +0000

Endocrine Society viaNewswise– WASHINGTON—Antacids improved blood sugar control in people with diabetes but had no effect on reducing the risk of diabetes in the general population, according to a new meta-analysis published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. Type 2 diabetes is a global public health concern affecting almost 10 percent of people worldwide. Doctors may prescribe diet and lifestyle changes, diabetes medications, or insulin to help people with diabetes better manage their blood sugar, but recent data points to common over the counter antacid medicines as another way to improve glucose levels. “Our research demonstrated that prescribing antacids as an add-on to standard care was superior to standard therapy in decreasing hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels and fasting blood sugar in people with diabetes,” said study author Carol Chiung-Hui Peng, M.D., of the University of Maryland Medical Center Midtown Campus in Baltimore, Md. “For people without diabetes, taking antacids did not significantly alter their risk of developing the disease,” said study author, Huei-Kai Huang, M.D., of the Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital in Hualien, Taiwan. The researchers performed a meta-analysis on the effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)—a commonly used type of antacid medication—on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes and whether these medications could prevent the new onset of diabetes in the general population. The analysis included seven studies (342 participants) for glycemic control and 5 studies (244, 439 participants) for risk of incident diabetes. The researchers found antacids can reduce HbA1c levels by 0.36% in people with diabetes and lower fasting blood sugar by 10 mg/dl based on the results from seven clinical trials. For those without diabetes, the results of the five studies showed that antacids had no effect on reducing the risk of developing diabetes. “People with diabetes should be aware that these commonly used antacid medications may improve their blood sugar control, and providers could consider this glucose-lowering effect when prescribing these medications to their patients,” said study author Kashif Munir, M.D., associate professor in the division of endocrinology, diabetes and nutrition at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, Md. To read the original article click here.

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Father’s Day Special: Testosterone Help for Dad’s Health

AHA Publisher — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 07:00:17 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – It’s been said that hormones are at the center of health. For men, testosterone is a key health component and their entire life is affected when testosterone is low. In fact, a dad’s health is strongly linked to testosterone throughout his lifetime. As with other hormones, the endocrine system uses testosterone as a chemical messenger to communicate with the body. These hormones control and coordinate the body’s internal metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and its response to injury, stress, and environmental factors. It’s easy to see how they can drastically affect the body’s well-being when out of balance. This Father’s Day, let’s put dad’s health and wellbeing in the spotlight. It starts with testosterone. When testosterone is low a man’s entire health and lifestyle can feel “off”. How can you help the men you love? Knowledge is power. Here’s what testosterone is, signs when testosterone is low, why modern life is detrimental to testosterone, and tips to keep it firing! Testosterone Is the Primary Male Sex Hormone and Paramount to Dad’s Health Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, and it is produced by the testicles. The hypothalamus and pituitary gland control its production, including how much and when. Testosterone is responsible for male sexual characteristic development. Women also produce testosterone, but in smaller amounts than men. In females, testosterone also contributes to sex drive, bone density, and muscle strength, and having too low of levels can be an issue. But in women, excessive levels are monitored. Excesses can cause women to experience male pattern baldness and infertility (1). For a dad’s health, testosterone is believed to regulate and balance many functions including: Sex drive Fat distribution, bone mass, muscle size, and strength Sperm count and development of mature sperm Red blood cell production It is a vital component of men’s health, and there are many concerns when testosterone is low. Signs Testosterone Is Low As a man ages, he may experience diminishing testosterone. There are many symptoms, but it can be difficult to diagnose as some of them are similar and associated with normal aging. Signs that testosterone is low include (2): Mood changes and decreased libido Diminished erectile quality, particularly at night Reduced cognitive function Decreased muscle strength Decreased body hair and skin changes Fatigue Decreased bone mass and bone mineral density An increase in abdominal fat mass Low testosterone is also a health concern. It is associated with higher mortality and chronic conditions such as depressed moods, heart issues, metabolism problems, high blood sugars, and more. Unfortunately, treating conditions with medication, and even the diseases themselves, can also cause low testosterone…a vicious cycle (3). Reasons Testosterone Is Low in Many Males First of all, testosterone naturally declines by about 1.6% every year as males age, typically after age 40 (4). By age 60, most men experience testosterone levels low enough to be diagnosed as hypogonadism in a younger man. Second, there are a myriad of reasons testosterone is low in men, from injury to sickness to advanced age to modern day lifestyle. They include: Use of certain medications Injury to or infection in the testes Chronic health issues, including abnormal blood sugars, weight gain, autoimmune conditions, and kidney and liver malfunction Disorders that affect the hormones, such as pituitary tumors or high prolactin levels Genetic predisposition Advanced age – as life expectancy, increases, testosterone is lower with each year Lastly, many aspects of modern life seem to be causing a more rapid decline in males now than in former generations. In fact, the current rate of hypogonadism in 45-year-old males is about 40% and climbing. What’s more, the diagnosis of low testosterone has increased by 170% since 2012 in men over 60 years, and the issue of generational low testosterone is being seen across the world in the United States, the Netherlands, and Australia, among other locations worldwide (6, 7). Modern-day testosterone diminishers include obesity (8), chronic medication use, sedentary lifestyles, environmental pollutants including pesticides, chemical exposure including BPA’s, chemicals in coolants, and antibacterial agents that mimic estrogens (9), and more. Father’s Day Solution: Introducing Testofen and Testosterone Zone for Dad’s Health Thankfully, there is a new Keto Zone formulation to support dad’s health and testosterone levels. This new supplement is called Testosterone Zone. Testosterone Zone’s primary active ingredient is Testofen. It is a potent aid for men’s health. Testofen is a specialized fenugreek seed extract. It has been found to support men’s health, improve testosterone levels when testosterone is low, and even promote health and sexual function in healthy aging males. In fact, in one landmark study, researchers gave 120 healthy men aged between 43-70 years an active treatment of Testofen or placebo for 12 weeks. The results? The men who received Testofen reported fewer androgen deficiency symptoms. They also experienced improved sexual function and higher serum testosterone, both total serum and free testosterone. These results continued after the initial experimentation. Testofen was safe and effective in reducing low testosterone symptoms and improving testosterone levels in this study (10). Other studies also support Testofen’s efficacy (11). Keto Zone Testosterone Zone Does More Just as Hormone Zone supports women’s hormones for balanced levels, Testosterone Zone is men’s answer to testosterone imbalance – just in time for Father’s Day! Along with Testofen, Dr. Colbert formulated it specifically with all-natural, potent ingredients that support men’s overall health and testosterone levels. Keto Zone Plus Testosterone For dad’s best health and testosterone levels, a whole-body healthy lifestyle is paramount. In addition to daily Testosterone Zone, getting into the Keto Zone can help dad feel energized, lose weight, and regain vitality. Together, Testosterone Zone and Keto Zone are a surefire combination for dad’s wellness! Bottom Line When testosterone is low, dad’s health suffers. It can be debilitating. And, more and more men are suffering from low testosterone than ever before. Thankfully, Dr. Colbert has a new answer with Keto Zone Testosterone Zone. It’s safe, effective, and an all-natural formulation designed to support men’s health and testosterone balance. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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Vitamin D Deficiency May Impair Muscle Function

AHA Publisher — Mon, 19 Apr 2021 07:00:35 +0000

Society for Endocrinology via EurekAlert – Vitamin D deficiency may impair muscle function due to a reduction in energy production in the muscles, according to a mouse study published in the Journal of Endocrinology. Vitamin D deficient mice were found to have impaired muscle mitochondrial function, which may have implications for muscle function, performance and recovery. This may suggest that preventing vitamin D deficiency in older adults could help maintain better muscle strength and function and reduce age related muscle deterioration, but further studies are needed to confirm this. Vitamin D is a hormone well known to be important for maintaining bone health and preventing rickets and osteoporosis. In recent years, vitamin D deficiency has been reported to be as prevalent as 40% in European populations and linked to increased risk for several conditions, including COVID-19, cancer and diabetes. Although these studies report association rather than causation, the benefits of vitamin D supplementation are now a major subject of health debate. Multiple studies have also linked low vitamin D levels to poor muscle strength, particularly in older people. Skeletal muscle enables us to move voluntarily and perform everyday activities. It is essential that they have enough energy to power these movements. Specialized organs in cells, called mitochondria, convert nutrients into energy to meet this demand. Previous studies indicate that impaired muscle strength in people with vitamin D deficiency may be linked to impaired muscle mitochondrial function. Determining the role of vitamin D in muscle performance of older people is also difficult, as they may suffer from a number of pre-existing health conditions that can also affect their vitamin D status. Therefore, previous studies have been unable to determine how vitamin D may directly affect muscle performance. Dr Andrew Philp and his team at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research in Australia, and collaborating universities, used a mouse model to determine the effects of diet-induced vitamin D deficiency on skeletal muscle mitochondrial function in young, male mice. Mice were either fed a diet with normal quantities of vitamin D, or with no vitamin D to induce deficiency, for a period of 3 months. A typical vitamin D level for humans is 40-50 nmol.L-1, and acute vitamin D deficiency is diagnosed when levels drop below 12 nmol.L-1. On average, the mice in this study had vitamin D levels of 30 nmol.L1, with diet-induced vitamin D deficiency leading to levels of just 3 nmol.L-1. Although this level was more extreme than typically observed in people, it is still within the clinically recognized range. Tissue and blood samples were collected monthly to quantify vitamin D and calcium concentrations and to assess markers of muscle mitochondrial function and number. After 3 months of diet-induced vitamin D deficiency skeletal muscle mitochondrial function was found to be impaired by up to 37%. This was not due to a reduced number of mitochondria or a reduction in muscle mass. “Our results show there is a clear link between vitamin D deficiency and oxidative capacity in skeletal muscle. They suggest that vitamin D deficiency decreases mitochondrial function, as opposed to reducing the number of mitochondria in skeletal muscle.” Dr Philp comments. “We are particularly interested to examine whether this reduction in mitochondrial function may be a cause of age-related loss in skeletal muscle mass and function.” These findings suggest that vitamin D deficiency may impair mitochondrial function and reduce the amount of energy produced in the muscles, which may lead to poor muscle function. Therefore, preventing vitamin D deficiency in older people may help maintain muscle performance and reduce the risk of muscle related diseases, such as sarcopenia. However, further studies that investigate the direct effect of vitamin D deficiency on muscle function and strength are necessary to confirm this. Whilst this study indicates that vitamin D deficiency can alter mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle, Dr Philp and his team were unable to determine precisely how this process occurred. Therefore, their future work aims to establish how vitamin D deficiency alters mitochondrial control and function in skeletal muscle. To read the original article click here.

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6 Steps to Balance Hormones Naturally

AHA Publisher — Wed, 07 Apr 2021 07:00:16 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Hormones — such as estrogen, testosterone, adrenaline and insulin — are extremely important chemical messengers that affect many aspects of your overall health. Conventional treatments for hormonal imbalances typically include synthetic hormone replacement therapies, birth control pills, insulin injections, thyroid medications and more. Unfortunately, for the majority of people suffering from hormonal disorders, relying on these types of synthetic treatments often does three things: It makes people dependent on taking prescription drugs for the rest of their lives in order to keep symptoms under control. It simply masks the patient’s symptoms, but doesn’t solve them, which means that the patient can continue to develop abnormalities in other areas of the body while the disorder progresses. It potentially causes a higher risk for serious side effects, such as stroke, osteoporosis, anxiety, reproductive problems, cancer and more. Is it possible to balance hormones naturally? The good news is: yes, in many cases it is. Below you’ll learn about some root causes of hormonal problems, as well as about treatment options to help you balance your hormones naturally. What Is the Endocrine System? The endocrine system is in charge of coordinating the relationship between different organs and hormones, which are chemicals that are released into your bloodstream from cells within your endocrine glands. Hormones are secreted by various glands and organs, including your thyroid, adrenals, pituitary, ovaries, testicles and pancreas. The entire endocrine system works together to control the level of hormones circulating throughout your body, and if one or more is even slightly imbalanced, it can cause widespread health problems affecting growth, sexual development and function, sleep, metabolism and hunger. Once your hormones are in circulation, they target specific tissues or cells by binding to receptors that are located inside the cell or on its surface. These hormones work as chemical messengers and play a key role in your body’s daily functions. The endocrine system is made up of many glands, including the pituitary gland or “master gland” that’s responsible for sending information from your brain to other glands in your body. The pituitary gland also produces many hormones that travel throughout the body and have different important functions. The pituitary gland is made up of two different tissue types: the anterior pituitary that synthesizes and releases classic hormones, and the posterior pituitary gland that secretes neurohormones that are made in the hypothalamus. Two hormones that are secreted by the anterior pituitary gland are growth hormone, which is responsible for your proper growth and development, and prolactin, which is the hormone that stimulates milk production after childbirth. Tropic hormones are also produced and secreted by the anterior pituitary gland, which is an endocrine gland, and they also target other endocrine glands. These hormones include: thyroid-stimulating hormone (also called thyrotropin) follicle-stimulating hormone luteinizing hormone adrenocorticotropic hormone The posterior pituitary gland doesn’t produce hormones on its own, but stores and secretes two hormones made in the hypothalamic region, vasopressin and oxytocin, and then releases them into the bloodstream. Other important glands of the endocrine system include the pineal gland, thyroid gland, parathyroid glands, thymus gland and adrenal glands. There are two major groups of hormones that circulate the human body — those that derive from amino acids (protein hormones, peptides and amines) and those that derive from lipids (steroids). Here’s a quick breakdown of these hormone subgroups: Amine hormones: Hormones that are synthesized from the amino acids tryptophan (such as melatonin) and tyrosine (such as thyroid hormones and dopamine). Peptide hormones: Hormones that consist of short chain amino acids and include antidiuretic hormone (called vasopressin) and oxytocin. Protein hormones: Hormones that consist of longer polypeptides and include growth hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. Steroid hormones: Hormones that are derived from cholesterol and include testosterone, estrogens and cortisol. When these hormones send messages, they are received by hormone receptors that process the message and signal specific event or cellular mechanisms that initiate the target cell’s response. Signs and Symptoms Before we talk about how to balance hormones naturally, it helps to know which signs and symptoms of hormone imbalances to look out for. These include: Infertility and irregular periods Weight gain or weight loss (that’s unexplained and not due to intentional changes in your diet) Depression and anxiety Fatigue Insomnia Low libido Changes in appetite Digestive issues Hair loss and hair thinning Symptoms of hormonal imbalances can range dramatically depending on what type of disorder or illness they are caused by. For example, high estrogen can contribute to problems that include endometriosis and reproductive issues, while symptoms of diabetes often include weight gain, changes in appetite, nerve damage and problems with eyesight. Some specific problems associated with some of the most common hormonal imbalances include: Estrogen dominance: changes in sleep patterns, changes in weight and appetite, higher perceived stress, slowed metabolism Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): infertility, weight gain, higher risk for diabetes, acne, abnormal hair growth Low estrogen: low sex drive, reproductive problems, menstrual irregularity, changes in mood Hypothyroidism: slowed metabolism, weight gain, fatigue, anxiety, irritability, digestive issues, irregular periods Low testosterone: erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, weight gain, fatigue, mood-related problems Hyperthyroidism & Grave’s disease: anxiety, thinning hair, weight loss, IBS, trouble sleeping, irregular heartbeats Diabetes: weight gain, nerve damage (neuropathy), higher risk for vision loss, fatigue, trouble breathing, dry mouth, skin problems Adrenal fatigue: fatigue, muscle aches and pains, anxiety and depression, trouble sleeping, brain fog, reproductive problems Risk Factors and Causes Hormonal imbalances are multi-factorial disorders, meaning they are caused by a combination of factors — such as your diet, medical history, genetics, stress levels and exposure to toxins from your environment. Some of the major contributors to hormonal imbalances include: Food allergies and gut issues: An expanding field of new research shows that your gut health plays a significant role in hormone regulation. If you have leaky gut syndrome or a lack of beneficial probiotic bacteria lining your intestinal wall, you’re more susceptible to hormonal problems, including diabetes and obesity. That’s because inflammation usually stems from your gut and then impacts nearly every aspect of your health. Being overweight or obese High levels of inflammation caused by a poor diet and a sedentary lifestyle Genetic susceptibility Toxicity (which is related to exposure to chemicals like pesticides, or viruses, cigarettes, excessive alcohol and some medications) High amounts of stress, and a lack of enough sleep and rest Adrenal dysfunction is the largest cause of the hormonal imbalance with the sex hormones — especially because of something called the “cortisol steal.” This occurs when cholesterol, which usually helps to make the sex hormones, combines with too much stress and the enzyme 17/20 lyase blocks the conversion; the production of cortisol ensues. Cortisol then causes the imbalance of progesterone, estrogen and testosterone, which then decreases the sex drive. How to Balance Hormones Naturally 1. Swap Carbs for Healthy Fats Foods that balance hormones include a variety of fat-containing foods that provide short, medium and long-chain fatty acids. Your body needs various types of fats to create hormones, including saturated fat and cholesterol. Not only are these essential fats fundamental building blocks for hormone production, but they keep inflammation levels low, boost your metabolism and promote weight loss. Healthy fats have the opposite effect of refined carbohydrates, which lead to inflammation and can mess with the balance of your hormones. My four favorite sources of anti-inflammatory, healthy fats include: coconut oil, avocados, grass-fed butter and wild-caught salmon. Coconut oil uses are plentiful — for example, coconut oil (or cream/milk) has natural anti-bacterial and fat-burning effects. Avocado benefits include improving heart health, lowering inflammation, controlling your appetite and contributing to your daily intake of fiber and nutrients such as potassium. Salmon nutrition is also impressive: it’s one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to lower inflammation and help with cognitive functions. Omega-3 fatty acids are a large component of brain-cell membranes and are important for cell-to-cell communication in the brain. Research shows that omega-3 fatty acids help protect against hippocampal neuronal loss and reduce pro-inflammatory responses. What food causes hormonal imbalance? It’s best to limit or avoid added sugar, processed carbs and refined vegetable/seed oils. Here’s a rule of thumb: Steer clear from oils high in omega-6 fats (safflower oil, sunflower, corn, cottonseed, canola, soybean and peanut), and load up on rich sources of natural omega-3s instead (wild fish, flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts and grass-fed animal products). There is a type of omega-6 fat that you want to get in your diet called GLA. GLA (gamma-linoleic acid) can be taken in supplement form by using evening primrose oil or borage oil, and it’s also found in hemp seeds. Studies show supplementing with GLA can support healthy progesterone levels. 2. Supplement to Fill Nutritional Voids While a healthy diet is key for all aspects of health, it’s sometimes necessary to supplement in order to fill nutritional voids that can be leading to a hormone imbalance. Here are the top supplements to focus on in order to balance hormones: Evening primrose oil: Evening primrose oil contains omega-6 fatty acids, such as LA and GLA, that support overall hormonal function. Supplementing with evening primrose oil can help to relieve premenstrual and PCOS symptoms. It also helps to create a healthy environment for conception. Vitamin D: What is the best vitamins to take for hormonal imbalance? Vitamin D is definitely one of them, since it almost acts like a hormone inside the body and has important implications for keeping inflammation levels low. This is why people who live in dark areas often suffer from seasonal depression and other health problems unless they supplement with vitamin D. Sunshine is really the best way to optimize vitamin D levels because your bare skin actually makes vitamin D on its own when exposed to even small amounts of direct sunlight. Most people should supplement with around 2,000–5,000 IU daily of vitamin D3 if they live in dark areas, during the winter, and on days when they’re not in the sun. Bone broth: Bone broth soothes the digestive system and supplies the body with nutrients that can be easily absorbed. Consuming bone broth or protein powder made from bone broth is especially beneficial to your health because it contains healing compounds like collagen, proline, glycine and glutamine, which have the powder to boost your overall health. Probiotics: Probiotics are healthy bacteria that can actually improve your production and regulation of key hormones like insulin, ghrelin and leptin. They can also aid in repairing your gut lining, which in turn can balance your hormones. When undigested food particles, like gluten for example, leak through your gut into your bloodstream, it causes disease-causing inflammation that impacts the entire body — especially glands like the thyroid that is very susceptible to heightened inflammation. Most people with leaky gut have an a deficiency of probiotics in their guts. To consume more probiotics, you can both add fermented foods to your diet (such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, etc.) and take probiotic capsule supplements. Adaptogen Herbs: Adaptogen herbs are a unique class of healing plants that promote hormone balance and protect the body from a wide variety of diseases, including those caused by excess stress. In addition to boosting immune function and combating stress, research shows that various adapotogens — such as ashwagandha, medicinal mushrooms, rhodiola and holy basil — can: Improve thyroid function Lower cholesterol naturally Reduce anxiety and depression Fight brain cell degeneration Stabilize blood sugar and insulin levels Support adrenal functions Ashwagandha, in particular, can be extremely effective at balancing hormones. It benefits thyroid function because it promotes the scavenging of free radicals that cause cellular damage. Ashwagandha can be used to support a sluggish or overactive thyroid, and it can also help to overcome adrenal fatigue. Your adrenals can become overtaxed when you experience too much emotional, physical or mental stress, leading to the disruption of hormones like adrenaline, cortisol and progesterone. Holy basil, which is also known as tulsi, helps to regulate cortisol levels, thereby working as a natural remedy for anxiety and emotional stress. Studies show that holy basil can also protect your organs and tissuesagainst chemical stress from pollutants and heavy metals,...

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How Does Sleep Affect Your Immunity?

AHA Publisher — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 08:00:48 +0000

Ratan-NM, M. Pharm. via News-Medical Net – Adequate sleep is vital for good health; unfortunately, not many people relate to this feeling. Amidst the growing workload and late-night culture, the importance of proper sleep is often side-lined. This issue is much relevant in the current pandemic when people are working from home. Insomnia and Its Consequences Insomnia is a condition in which a person is unable to fall asleep. A person with insomnia may present with the following symptoms: Feels sleepy and tired throughout the day Is always irritated Have problems in focussing on one thing and memorizing stuff Lack of sleep in the long term may increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Sleep is also vital for a proper immune response; lack of sleep can weaken your immune system; it can increase the body’s susceptibility to infection and hamper the ability to fight the illness. Lack of Sleep and Immunity The sleeping and feeding habits of all the animals, including humans, are governed by the circadian rhythm. The word circadian is taken from the Latin word “circa,” which means day and “diem” means around. Circadian rhythm is a natural process that controls the sleep-wake cycle. The sleep-wake cycle is determined by complex interactions between the central nervous system, endocrine system, and the immune system. During sleep, your body releases cytokines, which are essential for the regulation of the immune system. Cytokines are required in increased amounts when you are attacked by a pathogen or are under stress. The level of cytokines increase during sleep, and therefore lack of sleep hinders the body’s ability to fight infections. This is also a reason why the body tends to sleep more while suffering from any infection. According to the National Sleep Foundation, chronic sleep loss poses a potential risk to the immune system. In a study conducted by Ackermann et al., researchers compared white blood cell counts of 15 subjects under normal and severely sleep-deprived conditions. In the first part of the study, 15 participants followed a strict 8-hour sleep schedule for a week. During the study period, they were exposed to 15 minutes of sunlight within 1 ½ hour of waking up and made to refrain from caffeine, alcohol, or medication during the last three days, to normalize their circadian cycle. In the second part of the study, participants were subjected to 29 hours of continuous wakefulness period. After study completion, the white blood cell counts of the participants were compared, and it was found that a type of white blood cells known as granulocytes reacted to the sleep deprivation in a typical way of body’s stress response, that too particularly at night. What Is the Optimal Amount of Sleep? The National Sleep Foundation recommends the following sleep ranges: Newborns (0-3 months): 14-17 hours Infants (4-11 months): 12-15 hours Toddlers (1-2 years): 11-14 hours Preschoolers (3-5 years): 10-13 hours School-age children (6-13 years): 9-11 hours Teenagers (14-17 years): 8-10 hours Younger adults (18-25 years): 7-9 hours Adults (26-64 years): 7-9 hours Older adults (65years and above): 7-8 hours The above numbers reflect the ideal amount of sleep in normal circumstances; however, there are certain cases when people need more sleep, for example, while recovering from illness, jet lag, radical time zone shift, etc. Can Good Sleep Improve Immunity? Poor quality sleep can deteriorate immune response; however, a good night’s sleep can increase your immunity. Good quality sleep helps improve the efficiency of T helper cells. T helper cells are the cells that fight invading bacteria, viruses, or any foreign antigen cells as part of the body’s defense system. Whenever a foreign pathogen enters the body, our immunity cells recognize them and release a protein called integrin. Integrin helps T cells to bind with the foreign antigensand ultimately destroy it. According to a study published in the Journal of experimental medicine, T cells activate integrins and also identify the factors that can compromise the efficiency of T cells in attaching to the target pathogen. It was found that hormones like adrenaline, noradrenaline, and pro-inflammatory molecules like prostaglandins interrupted T cells from combining with integrins. The level of these stress hormones (adrenaline, noradrenaline) and prostaglandins decreases during sleep. Hence, good sleep boosts the efficiency of T cells and improves the immune response of the body. The benefits of good sleep are well established. Good sleep must be a priority in every person’s life. Maintaining sleep hygiene, like sleeping in a comfortable and dark, cold environment, and eliminating electronics at night can help achieve good sleep. Regular exercising and avoiding alcohol and caffeine are also vital in improving sleep quality. Sources Irwin, M. R., (2017). Sleep Health: Reciprocal Regulation of Sleep and Innate Immunity. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology, 42(1), 129–155. https://doi.org/10.1038/npp.2016.148 Reis, E. S., et al. (2011). Sleep and circadian rhythm regulate circulating complement factors and immunoregulatory properties of C5a. Brain, behavior, and immunity, 25(7), 1416–1426. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbi.2011.04.011 National Sleep Foundation Recommends New Sleep Times. National Sleep Foundation. Available at: www.sleepfoundation.org/…/national-sleep-foundation-recommends-new-sleep-times Sleep deprivation effect on the immune system mirrors physical stress. Available at: www.sleepfoundation.org/…/ Dimitrov, S., et al. (2019). Gαs-coupled receptor signaling and sleep regulate integrin activation of human antigen-specific T cells. The Journal of experimental medicine, 216(3), 517–526. https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20181169 Ackermann, K., Revell, V. L., Lao, O., Rombouts, E. J., Skene, D. J., & Kayser, M. (2012). Diurnal rhythms in blood cell populations and the effect of acute sleep deprivation in healthy young men. Sleep, 35(7), 933–940. https://doi.org/10.5665/sleep.1954 To read the original article click here.

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NEW STUDY Shows This Extract Reduces the Harmful Effects of EMF Radiation

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 08:00:12 +0000

Edit Lang via NaturalHealth365 – Although the wireless industry claims that exposure to wireless radiation is “safe,” numerous studies have shown that EMF radiation is harmful to the human body. Each day, we are exposed to more wireless, cellular, microwave, and electric fields than ever before in history. No matter how hard we try, it is impossible to completely avoid EMF exposure and still participate in our modern society. Thankfully, new research reveals an easy way to help protect ourselves against the damaging effects of EMF radiation. Is 5G a breakthrough innovation or a threat to human health? The use of radiofrequency (RF) EMF is on the rise, despite the overwhelming evidence revealing its potential to harm humans. One of the most alarming ways RF-EMF damages the body is by increasing oxidative stress. Free radical damage and oxidative stress are involved in cancer onset and numerous chronic diseases. Even though EMF safety is highly controversial, plenty of evidence exists to justify the WHO IARC’s decision to classify RF-EMF as a “possible human carcinogen.” Many are concerned with the potential danger that 5G has in store for humankind. Governments around the world are aggressively rolling out their 5G infrastructure. The technology uses submillimeter and millimeter waves and relies on EHF (extremely high frequency) ranges between 6 GHz and 100 GHz – and beyond. Although the physiological effects of 5G systems are unknown, preliminary observations showed that millimeter waves trigger a host of processes that can be devastating to our bodies. Hundreds of members of the international scientific community have been urging regulators to conduct further studies to explore how millimeter waves affect human health. WARNING: EMF harms your health in many ways A substantial body of evidence confirms that EMF exposures inflict widespread damage on the human body. EMFs attack our nervous and endocrine systems and produce oxidative stress. The radiation can alter our cells’ DNA, elevate programmed cell death, lower fertility, and even cause cancer. The risks are real, yet, most users are unaware of the potential harm. EMFs have also been linked to life-threatening cardiac effects, early-onset dementia, and even Alzheimer’s. Pregnant women and children are at particularly high risk. Evidence shows that EMF exposure before and shortly after birth can lead to ADHD and autism. “FCC-compliant” radiation levels do not equal “safe” Tragically enough, the over 2,000 peer-reviewed studies documenting the biological and health effects inflicted on humans by non-ionizing radiation were not enough to warrant the adoption of federal safety standards. Hundreds of recent studies demonstrate adverse health effects from headaches to many types of cancer, including brain cancer caused by levels far lower than those considered acceptable by the FCC. Nonetheless, governing bodies conducted no long-term studies to ensure public safety. Instead, the US government issued “guidelines” developed by the industry, using outdated research. Rosemary extract protects against the harmful effects of EMF Although the repercussions of long-term EMF exposure can be severe, the good news is, you can help buffer your body against its damaging effects. A popular culinary herb may allow your cells to recover from overexposure and remove some of the radiation from your body. Rosemary is a common herb that is well-known for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In a 2020 study, scientists tested the antioxidant property of rosemary extract by exposing rats to electromagnetic fields. Results showed that rosemary extract reduced EMFs’ destructive effect, confirming its potential preventative benefits. In a 2016 study, a group of researchers came to similar conclusions after exposing rats to mobile phone EMFs. In rats not treated with rosemary, EMF exposure induced structural changes in connective tissues, and increased oxidative stress. Rats treated with rosemary extract faired much better and experienced a boost in antioxidant activity. How to use rosemary for EMF protection You can take rosemary extract in a tincture or capsules. However, drinking a cup of rosemary tea daily may be the easiest way to benefit from the herb’s protective compounds. Boil 1-2 cups of water. Add 1-2 inches of finely chopped rosemary leaves to your cup. Pour hot water over the leaves. Allow to steep for 10 minutes, strain, and enjoy! Sources for this article: NIH.gov, NaturalHealthResearch.org , NaturalHealth365.com

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Vanilla Oil Helps Balance Hormones, Reduce Inflammation & Prevent Cancer

AHA Publisher — Wed, 27 May 2020 07:00:39 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Vanilla extract is widely used in both commercial and domestic baking, perfume manufacturing and aromatherapy, but many people don’t realize the array of health benefits that come from using vanilla oil, even though it is not technically an essential oil. Internally, pure vanilla oil fights inflammation, works as an antidepressant and contains high levels of antioxidants — preventing the growth of cancer cells. It’s been proven to fight infections and diseases caused by oxidation and inflammation. Vanilla oil also promotes skin and hair health, relieves muscle pain and cramps, and balances hormones naturally. For thousands of years, it’s been used by men and women who struggle with loss of libido, anxiety and high blood pressure. Vanilla oil is derived from Vanilla planifolia, a native species of the Orchidaceae family. The Spanish word for vanilla is vaina, which is simply translated as “little pod.” It was the Spanish explorers arriving on the Gulf Coast of Mexico in the early 16th century who gave vanilla its current name. Vanilla Oil Nutrition Facts Vanilla grows as a vine that climbs up an existing tree or structure. When left alone, the vine grows as high as the support will allow it. Although it is native to Mexico, it’s now widely grown throughout the tropics. Indonesia and Madagascar are the world’s largest producers. The vanilla seed pods are roughly a third of an inch by six inches and a brownish red to black color when ripe. Inside of the pods is an oily liquid full of tiny seeds. The vanilla flower (which is a beautiful, yellow orchid-looking flower) produces a fruit, but it only lasts for one day so growers have to inspect the flowers daily. The fruit is a seed capsule that when left on the plant ripens and opens. As it dries, the compounds crystallize, releasing its distinctive vanilla smell. Both vanilla pods and seeds are used for cooking. Vanilla beans have been shown to contain over 200 compounds, which can vary in concentration depending on the region where the beans are harvested. Several compounds, including vanillin, p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, guaiacol and anise alcohol, have been found to be important for the aroma profile of vanilla. A study published in the Journal of Food Science found that the most important compounds responsible for the differentiation between the variety of vanilla beans were vanillin, anise alcohol, 4-methylguaiacol, p-hydroxybenzaldehyde/trimethylpyrazine, p-cresol/anisole, guaiacol, isovaleric acid and acetic acid. (1) 8 Health Benefits of Vanilla Oil 1. Contains Antioxidant Properties The antioxidant properties of vanilla oil protect the body from wear and tear by neutralizing free radicals. Antioxidants are substances that help prevent certain types of cell damage, especially those caused by oxidation. Oxidation is one of the biggest causes behind most of our health troubles and diseases. It leads to the formation of free radicals, which are very dangerous to the body’s tissues and have been connected to cancer and premature aging. High-antioxidant foods and plants are evaluated by ORAC score (oxygen radical absorption capacity), which tests the power of a substance to absorb and eliminate free radicals. Dried vanilla bean spice is rated at an incredible 122,400 ORAC value! A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry noted that pure vanilla extract, which was made with cured vanilla beans and 60 percent aqueous ethyl alcohol, has high levels of antioxidant activity. The study noted that the results “point towards the potential use of vanilla extract components as antioxidants for food preservation and in health supplements as nutraceuticals.” (2) 2. Boosts Libido Vanilla oil stimulates the secretion of certain hormones like testosterone and estrogen, which helps people who suffer from erectile dysfunction, impotence and loss of libido. Erectile dysfunction, for example, comes in many degrees and can be caused by low levels of testosterone, medications, poor diet, fatigue, stress, depression or other illnesses. The good news is that around 70 percent of these cases are restored with home remedies and natural treatment methods for impotence. Thankfully, vanilla oil has been shown to improve hormone levels, mood and outlook on life. 3. Relieves PMS Symptoms Because vanilla oil activates estrogen levels, it also regularizes menstruation and relieves PMS symptoms. PMS symptoms are experienced by over 75 percent of menstruating women, and hormone balance is the primary factor that determines these symptoms. Common PMS symptoms include fatigue, bloating, skin issues, emotional changes, breast tenderness and cramps. Vanilla oil serves as a natural remedy for PMS and cramps because it activates or balances hormone levels and manages stress, leaving your body and mind relaxed. Vanilla oil works as a sedative, so your body isn’t in a state of hypersensitivity while experiencing PMS symptoms; instead, it’s tranquil and the symptoms are minimized. 4. Prevents the Growth of Cancer Cells Vanilla essential oil has anticarcinogenic properties — it helps inhibit the development of cancer before it becomes a problem, making it a potential natural cancer treatment. This powerful oil curbs the growth of cancerous cells, mostly because of it acts as an antioxidant that prevents the oxidation of cells. Antioxidants kill free radicals in the body and reverse oxidative stress-causing chronic disease. According to the National Cancer Institute, at high concentrations, free radicals can be hazardous to the body and damage all major components of cells, including DNA, proteins and cell membranes. The damage to cells caused by free radicals, especially the damage to DNA, may play a role in the development of cancer and other health conditions. (3) Antioxidants are known as “free radical scavengers” that interact with, neutralize and fight free radical damage. 5. Fights Infections Some components present in vanilla oil, such as eugenol and vanillin hydroxybenzaldehyde, are able to fight infections. A 2014 study published in Basel, Switzerland, examined the effectiveness of vanilla oil as an antibacterial agent when used on the surface of bacterial cells. The study found that vanilla oil strongly inhibited both the initial adherence of S. aureus cells and the development of the mature biofilm after 48 hours. S. aureus cells are bacteria frequently found in the human respiratory tract and on the skin. (4) 6. Works as an Antidepressant Vanilla has been commonly used as a home remedy from the 17th century to fight anxiety and depression with nutrition. Vanilla oil has a calming effect on the brain, which helps with anger, insomnia, stress and anxiety. A study published in the Indian Journal of Pharmacology found that vanillin, one of the main components of vanilla oil, demonstrated antidepressant activity in mice, which was comparable with fluoxetine, a medication that treats depression and obsessive compulsive disorder. The study concluded that because the vanillin was able to cause a significant reduction of immobility in the mice, as indicated in a forced swim test, the sedative properties make vanilla oil effective in naturally treating depression. (5 7. Reduces Inflammation Inflammation is associated with just about every health condition, and researchers are furiously investigating chronic inflammation’s effects on health and possible preventive medical applications. Luckily, vanilla oil is a sedative, so it reduces stress on the body such as inflammation, making it an anti-inflammatory food; this is helpful to the respiratory, digestive, nervous, circulatory and excretory systems. Because vanilla is high in antioxidants, it reduces damage caused by inflammation. Vanillin, the component with the most antioxidant value, has the power to lower cholesterol naturally and reduce triglycerides levels and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an autoimmune dysfunction where the white blood cells destroy the cartilage. This may be related to food allergies, bacterial infections, stress or excess acid in the body. Vanilla oil’s anti-inflammatory, sedative and antibacterial properties make it a perfect natural arthritis treatment. 8. Lowers Blood Pressure Vanilla oil’s sedative effects on the body allow it to naturally lower blood pressure by relaxing the body and mind. High blood pressure is when the pressure on the arteries and blood vessels becomes too high and the arterial wall becomes distorted, causing extra stress on the heart. High blood pressure levels can put you at risk for having a stroke, heart attack and diabetes. A major cause of high blood pressure is stress; by relaxing the muscles and mind, vanilla oil is able to lower blood pressure levels. Vanilla oil also helps you to get more sleep, which is another easy way to lower blood pressure levels. Vanilla oil serves as a natural remedy for high blood pressure because it also acts as an antioxidant, so it reduces oxidative stress and dilates the arteries. Vanilla Oil History & Interesting Facts The Totonac people, who lived on the east coast of Mexico (in the present-day state of Veracruz), were the first to cultivate vanilla. Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés is credited with introducing both vanilla and chocolate to Europe in the 1520s. During Montezuma’s capture in Mexico, one of Cortés’ officers saw him drinking a chocolate beverage that was made of cocoa powder and ground corn, flavored with ground vanilla pods and honey. The Spanish people tried his drink themselves and were so impressed by it that they took samples back to Spain. The vanilla flavor in particular was a hit, and by 1700 the use of vanilla spread through Europe — and Mexico became the leading producer of vanilla for three centuries. Because pollination is required to gain the proper flavoring of the vanilla plant, attempts to cultivate vanilla outside Mexico and Central America proved fruitless; however, in 1841, Edmond Albius, a slave who lived on the French island of Réunion in the Indian Ocean, discovered at the age of 12 that the plant could be hand-pollinated, which allowed global cultivation of the plant. Today, three major species of vanilla are grown globally, all derived from a species originally found in Mesoamerica, including parts of modern-day Mexico. Vanilla is the second most expensive spice after saffron because growing the vanilla seed pods is labor-intensive. How to Pick & Make Vanilla Oil It’s important to note that most of the cheap vanilla oils available commercially contain a ton of synthetic ingredients or are heavily processed. Finding 100 percent pure vanilla oil is very unlikely and expensive. When you look to buy vanilla oil for its health benefits, keep in mind that the higher the vanillin content, the more premium quality aroma you get. For instance, look for vanilla Co2 total extract, which is typically used in aromatherapy. Vanilla Co2 total extract contains 26 percent vanillin, while the vanilla extract that is used for cooking contains only 2 percent. Many companies try to sell low-level vanillin products as “vanilla essential oils,” so you need to read the labels carefully. Vanilla is not an “essential oil” in the same way that lavender oil, peppermint oil and thyme oil are because it is not steam-distilled, expeller-pressed or cold-pressed. You will find vanilla Co2 total extract (the highest quality), vanilla absolute (when extracted with a solvent like alcohol), vanilla dilution (when Co2 or absolute is blended with a carrier oil) or vanilla tincture (when beans are soaked in an alcohol base). Because of the confusing forms of vanilla, read the labels; the higher percentage of vanillin, the better the product. The price of a vanilla absolute or Co2 extracted oil costs over $100 for an ounce! If you plan on using a purchased vanilla oil on your skin or internally as medicine, make sure you choose a reputable company that has a high percentage of vanillin. Here’s a more cost-effective option that you can create at home: To make a vanilla oil infusion, buy whole vanilla beans or pods from your local health food store, preferably organic, then chop them into pieces and remove the seeds. Add them directly to a carrier oil (you want to pick an oil that isn’t very fragrant, like jojoba oil). Let the mixture sit for at least a week — with time the fragrance will be stronger. Keep the mixture in an airtight container. You can filter out the pods when you’re ready to use the...

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