fatty acids Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Saturated Fatty Acid Levels Increase When Making Memories

AHA Publisher — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 07:00:02 +0000

University of Queensland via EurekAlert – Saturated fatty acid levels unexpectedly rise in the brain during memory formation, according to research, opening a new avenue of investigation into how memories are made. Dr Tristan Wallis, from Professor Frederic Meunier’s laboratory at UQ’s Queensland Brain Institute (QBI), said traditionally, polyunsaturated fatty acids were considered important to health and memory, but this study highlighted the unexpected role of saturated fatty acids. “We tested the most common fatty acids to see how their levels changed as new memories were formed in the brain,” Dr Wallis said. “Unexpectedly, the changes of saturated fat levels in the brain cells were the most marked, especially that of myristic acid, which is found in coconut oil and butter. “In the kitchen, saturated fats are those which are solid at room temperature while unsaturated fats are normally liquid. “The brain is the fattiest organ in the body, being 60 per cent fat, which provides energy, structure and assists in passing messages between brain cells. “Fatty acids are the building blocks of lipids or fats and are vital for communication between nerve cells, because they help synaptic vesicles — microscopic sacs containing neurotransmitters–to fuse with the cell membrane and pass messages between the cells. “We have previously shown that when brain cells communicate with each other in a dish, the levels of saturated fatty acids increase.” Researchers have found that fatty acid levels in the rat brain, particularly saturated fatty acids, increase as memories are formed, but when they used a drug to block learning and memory formation in rats, the fatty acid levels did not change. The highest concentration of saturated fatty acids was found in the amygdala — the part of the brain involved in forming new memories specifically related to fear and strong emotions. Study contributor and QBI Director Professor Pankaj Sah said the work opened a new avenue on how memory was formed. “This research has huge implications on our understanding of synaptic plasticity — the change that occurs at the junctions between neurons that allow them to communicate, learn and build memories,” Professor Sah said. To read the original article click here.

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Western High-Fat Diet Can Cause Chronic Pain, According to UT Health San Antonio-Led Team

AHA Publisher — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 07:00:13 +0000

University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio via EurekAlert – SAN ANTONIO, June 23, 2021 – A typical Western high-fat diet can increase the risk of painful disorders common in people with conditions such as diabetes or obesity, according to a groundbreaking paper authored by a team led by The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, also referred to as UT Health San Antonio. Moreover, changes in diet may significantly reduce or even reverse pain from conditions causing either inflammatory pain – such as arthritis, trauma or surgery – or neuropathic pain, such as diabetes. The novel finding could help treat chronic-pain patients by simply altering diet or developing drugs that block release of certain fatty acids in the body. The paper, more than five years in the making, was published in the June edition of the journal Nature Metabolism by a collaborative team of 15 local researchers, headed by first co-authors Jacob T. Boyd, MD, PhD, and Peter M. LoCoco, PhD, of the Department of Endodontics at UT Health San Antonio. In all, 11 of the co-authors are from UT Health San Antonio, including seven current or former students of its Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences; three represent the Department of Chemistry at the University of Texas at San Antonio; and one is from the Department of Neurology with the South Texas Veterans Health Care System. “This study exemplifies team science at its best – multiple scientists and clinicians with complementary expertise working together to make lives better,” said Kenneth M. Hargreaves, DDS, PhD, professor and chair of the Department of Endodontics at UT Health San Antonio, and senior author of the paper. Fatty Acids and Pain Chronic pain is a major cause of disability around the world. But although fat-reduction often is advised to manage diabetes, auto-immune disorders and cardiovascular diseases, the role of dietary lipids, or fatty acids, in pain conditions has been relatively unknown. In the new paper, Dr. Boyd and his colleagues used multiple methods in both mice and humans to study the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in pain conditions. They found that typical Western diets high in omega-6 polyunsaturated fats served as a significant risk factor for both inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Omega-6 fats, mainly found in foods with vegetable oils, have their benefits. But Western diets associated with obesity are characterized by much-higher levels of those acids in foods from corn chips to onion rings, than healthy omega-3 fats, which are found in fish and sources like flaxseed and walnuts. Generally, unhealthy foods high in omega-6 fats include processed snacks, fast foods, cakes, and fatty and cured meats, among others. Reversal of this diet, especially by lowering omega-6 and increasing omega-3 lipids, greatly reduced these pain conditions, the researchers found. Also, the authors demonstrated that skin levels of omega-6 lipids in patients with Type 2 diabetic neuropathic pain were strongly associated with reported pain levels and the need for taking analgesic drugs. “This paper is a high-profile contribution for a huge unmet translational need as there are no treatments altering the nature of this neurological disease,” said José E. Cavazos, MD, PhD, professor of neurology, assistant dean and director of the National Institutes of Health-designated South Texas Medical Scientist Training Program at UT Health San Antonio. In an editorial accompanying the paper, Duke University researchers Aidan McGinnis and Ru-Rong Ji wrote, “This comprehensive and elegant study from Boyd et al. may serve as a foundation for new clinical trials and ultimately provide new avenues for the clinical treatment of neuropathies.” To read the original article click here.

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Digestive Enzymes Offer POWERFUL Benefits to Improve Digestive Health

AHA Publisher — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 07:00:21 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – If you frequently experience bloating and flatulence (gas), and the physical and … ahem… social discomfort that can ensue, you may be wondering if digestive enzymes could help. You’re definitely not alone. The use of over-the-counter digestive enzymes is growing by leaps and bounds, with some experts predicting that the global market for these supplements will balloon to a shocking $1 billion industry by the year 2025. While digestive enzymes – proteins that help break down and absorb nutrients from food – are created naturally in the body, sometimes the supply is outstripped by the body’s demands. The result is digestive discomfort. (This is often the case when certain foods, such as beans, legumes, and dairy products, are consumed, and the body lacks the proper enzymes to digest them). For a closer look at the “nuts and bolts” of supplementary digestive enzymes – and a reviewfrom the Mayo Clinic – keep reading. Here Is What You Need to Know About How Digestive Enzymes Perform Their Incredible Functions There are three primary types of digestive enzymes – proteases, lipases, and amylases. Proteases, or proteolytic enzymes, break down protein into small peptides and amino acids. At the same time, lipases work with liver bile to break down fats into fatty acids (plus a molecule called glycerol). As you can imagine, lipases are particularly necessary for your body to access essential fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamin D, E, A, and K. Finally, the amylase family of enzymes breaks down carbohydrates – such as starch – into simple sugars. Although the lion’s share of digestive enzymes is produced in the pancreas, the mouth, salivary glands, stomach, and small intestine get in on the act too. Once the enzymes have done their work and the food is broken down, the nutrients are absorbed through the small intestine wall and then distributed throughout the bloodstream. There are also a host of specialized digestive enzymes such as cellulase, which breaks down fiber, and lactase, which breaks down milk into milk sugars. Similarly, maltase, a type of amylase, breaks down maltose – or malt sugar – into simple sugars, while alpha-galactosidase can help break down sugars in vegetables. Prescription and Over-the-Counter Formulations Both Have Their Place Sometimes, shortages in digestive enzymes result from specific and serious problems, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, pancreatitis, pancreatic cysts, and pancreatic cancer. These deficiencies can cause malnutrition, shortage of essential vitamins, and severe gastrointestinal issues – and should be managed by a physician, who will often advise prescription digestive enzymes. But, for routine bloating and flatulence that follow the ingestion of certain foods, over-the-counter supplements may be the way to go. For example, researchers and natural health experts have gone “all in” on the incredible disease-fighting and health-preserving effects of cruciferous vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. Their cancer-fighting isothiocyanates and their healthy cargo of fiber, carotenoids, and polyphenols make them a true boon to health. But, they can be notoriously hard to digest. You could choose to simply avoid these superfoods, but another solution may be available. The answer could be as simple as taking alpha-galactosidase supplements, commonly sold under the brand name Beano. These enzymes excel at breaking down cruciferous vegetables and legumes. Another common problem is a deficiency in lactase, which is designed to break down lactose or milk sugar. This enzyme may offer relief to lactose-intolerant individuals who would otherwise suffer from cramping, nausea, and diarrhea after ingesting cows’ milk. These Useful Proteins Can Join Forces With Probiotics and Proper Nutrition for Better Digestive Health Not only do proponents of digestive enzymes say that these supplements can relieve digestive discomfort – but they also believe they may help probiotic and prebiotic interventions be more effective. Does this mean that probiotics and digestive enzymes are the same? Not exactly. Probiotics are live organisms that promote the health of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while digestive enzymes actively help the body digest proteins, fats, and carbs. However, the benefits and functions of digestive enzymes and probiotics can overlap, as the appropriate probiotics can replenish gut bacteria to help break down fiber and restore normal digestive function. In addition, it turns out that certain dietary choices are naturally high in digestive enzymes. These include raw papayas and pineapple, which contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and proteolytic digestive enzymes known as papain and bromelain. And, avocados have the advantage of not only contributing healthy monounsaturated fats to the diet but also contain lipases, which help turn fats into fatty acids – and are particularly useful after a high-fat meal. (So much for the outdated belief that avocados, themselves, are a “fattening” food. They are anything but!) Other enzyme-rich foods include bananas (which contain amylases and glucosidases), raw honey (which contains amylases and proteases), ripe mangoes, and unpasteurized sauerkraut – which has the added advantage of being probiotic. As always, it’s best to seek out non-GMO, organic fare. A Wealth of Digestive Enzymes Exist, Many Tailored to Specific Uses Over-the-counter enzyme supplements are made from animal pancreases or assorted molds, yeast, bacteria, fungi, and fruit. They are available in a wide variety of combinations and formulations. Some even contain prebiotic ingredients – such as inulin – and probiotics specifically added to enrich gut bacteria in the microbiome. (Tip: for maximum benefit, look for strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, L. plantarum, and L. salivarius). In addition, some digestive enzyme products contain time-honored carminatives (gas relievers) such as fennel, ginger, turmeric, and peppermint. Natural health experts advise seeking out digestive enzymes free of wheat, gluten, egg, peanuts, magnesium stearate, hydrogenated fats, artificial sweeteners, and dyes. Tip: when possible, opt for products that have been certified by the Natural Products Association or USP Quality Supplements. For best results, digestive enzymes should be taken before meals. Of course, check with your knowledgeable integrative doctor before supplementing, as digestive enzymes can interact with certain medications. In a review published in Proceedings of the Mayo Clinic, the authors noted that the use of enzyme supplements seems to be increasing. Not only that, but “emerging clinical data seem to support many of (digestive enzymes’) purported benefits.” While more study is needed, it seems clear that digestive enzymes are emerging at the forefront of the field of improved digestive health. Editor’s note: I highly recommend the digestive enzymes from LuvByNature. I use them every day and really enjoy the taste of the chewable tablets. Click here to learn more. Sources for this article include: VeryWellHealth.com Healthline.com Healthline.com Healthline.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Rosehip Oil: Is It the Ultimate Anti-Aging Oil?

AHA Publisher — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 07:00:23 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – It’s hard to suggest anything over coconut oil for skin, but rosehip oil — also known as rosehip seed oil — is running a close race with coconut oil when it comes to its benefits for the skin. Rose hips were a remedy used by the ancient Egyptians, Mayans and Native Americans all because of their amazing healing properties, and they were made into a syrup and rationed in Britain during wartime to ensure children’s resistance to infection. The syrup was made from the empty seed cases and also helped provide relief from diarrhea, stomach and menstrual cramps, nausea, and indigestion. Today, it’s getting plenty of attention for its ability to boost skin health and promote healthy aging. As you can see, rosehip oil — which is technically not an essential oil — has many uses that go more than skin deep. What Is Rosehip Oil? Rose essential oil is made from rose petals while rosehip oil, also called rose hip seed oil, comes from the seeds of rose hips. Rose hips are the fruit left behind after a plant has flowered and dropped its petals. Rosehip oil is harvested from the seeds of rose bushes predominately grown in Chile, and it’s full of vitamins, antioxidants and fatty acids that are known to correct dark spots and hydrate dry, itchy skin, all while reducing scars and fine lines. By using an organic cold-press extraction process, the oil is separated from the hips and seeds. For facial skin care, rosehip oil offers several benefits when applied externally. It protects the skin and increases cell turnover because it contains beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A) and vitamins C and E, which are all antioxidants that help fight free radicals. Rosehip oil’s healing properties are due to its chemical structure. As noted, it’s rich in healthy fats, but more specifically oleic, palmitic, linoleic and gamma linolenic acid. Rosehip oil contains polyunsaturated fatty acids (vitamin F), which when absorbed through the skin converts to prostaglandins (PGE). PGEs are excellent for skin care because they are involved in cellular membrane and tissue regeneration. It is also one of the richest plant sources of vitamin C, which is another reason why rosehip oil is such a great product for fine lines and overall skin care. Rosehip Oil Benefits for Skin and More 1. Anti-Aging Properties Rosehip oil has significant anti-aging benefits for your face. Super light and non-greasy, this oil’s skin care benefits come from its high antioxidants and ability to penetrate into deeper layers of the skin, where it can improve moisture levels and reduce visible signs of aging. Collagen production naturally slows down as we age, but thanks to the high levels of vitamin C in rose hips, this is an oil that can actually help stimulate collagen production in the skin. In fact, a clinical study published in 2015 reveals that 60 days of topical vitamin C treatment was “highly efficient as a rejuvenation therapy, inducing significant collagen synthesis in all age groups with minimal side effects.” For those who are seeking to avoid chemicals and Botox, rosehip oil may be perfect because of its skin-rejuvenating properties of vitamins C and A and lycopene. This makes adding it into your skin care routine a safer, organic solution to repair the skin’s surface and restore elasticity. 2. Protection from Age Spots The UV rays of the sun can damage the skin, resulting in age spots and hyperpigmentation on the face. The antioxidants found in rosehip oil, especially the combination of vitamins C and E, can help combat free radicals that cause sun damage. Research suggests that these antioxidants can actually reduce the overproduction of pigment in skin, which is exactly what leads to uneven tone and age spots in the first place. It also helps get these antioxidants internally by including them in your diet. Drinking organic rosehip tea, which you can find at health food stores, is a great, easy way to do this. This oil is also deeply moisturizing and aids in removing redness and irritation. These properties also make rosehip oil a possible treatment for rosacea when used as a cold-pressed oil, cream or rosehip-based skin care product. 3. Helps with Stretch Marks and Reduces Acne Scarring The cold-pressed fats found in rosehip oil can help get rid of scars and reduce the appearance of stretch marks by promoting skin regeneration. When applied topically, the fats act as emollients, helping soften the skin while also increasing hydration. Studies indicate that this skin care oil may also help with cases of eczema thanks to its emollient status, which means it can provide a protective barrier to the skin while also smoothing out flakiness. The oil can also help reduce dry scalp and itchiness that are often caused by chemicals in most store-bought shampoos. 4. Boosts the Immune System Rose hips are one of the best plant sources of vitamin C, which helps treat infections and boost immune function. The University of Maryland database points out that rose hips can even be used as a vitamin C supplement. Fresh rose hips, rose hip tea or a rose hip supplement are all great options for keeping the immune system strong. Besides being an antioxidant, vitamin C is responsible for collagen production in the body, which is an important element in the structure of bones and muscles. Reports indicate that the important nutrient also aids in the proper absorption of iron that produces red blood cells. 5. Reduces Inflammation and Helps Arthritis People suffering from arthritis can benefit from using rose hips internally in addition to externally. The Arthritis Foundation reports that rose hips powder is a rich source of vitamin C, and it seems to reduce arthritis-associated inflammation by inhibiting the production of inflammatory enzymes and proteins. What about topical use of rosehip oil for arthritis? There isn’t recent research on this approach, but traditionally, a rose petal infusion was often added to bath water for people suffering from arthritis or rheumatism to relieve symptoms. You may find that adding a little rosehip oil to your bath water or applying it to areas of inflammation helps with this issue. How to Use It Wondering how to use rosehip oil for your skin care routine and more? Start by purchasing a pure, organic product that’s made by a trusted company. You’ll find rosehip oil products in pure oil, cream, powder, tea and capsule forms. Keep in mind that rosehip oil is delicate and can easily go rancid, so it’s important to take great care of it. Oftentimes, vitamin E oil is added to improve shelf life. Keeping it in the refrigerator or stored in a cool, dark location can help prevent rancidity. Though it’s more expensive, cold-pressed rosehip oils are the best products because they haven’t been altered by heat and therefore retain more nutrients. Since rosehip oil classifies as a dry oil, it absorbs quickly into the skin. You can apply the oil directly to the face using gentle, massaging motions or use it in numerous skin care recipes. Here are some easy ways to bring this new oil into your routine: Make organic, DIY lotions and serums, such as this Rosehip Oil Eye Serum for Dark Circles + Puffiness. Apply the oil twice a day to clean skin. To focus on problematic areas, apply only a few drops of oil to a clean cotton ball and dab onto to areas with fine lines, wrinkles or dark spots. Remember that it does not protect against sunburn, so apply a good quality sunscreen afterwards. While it can prevent and reduce acne scars, it should not be applied directly to active acne. If you have acne-prone skin, make sure to test an area first to ensure the product won’t clog your pores, causing unwanted flare-ups. Rosehip seed oil can be used on the face and neck since it absorbs quickly without leaving an oily residue. Just remember you only need two to three drops. Risks and Side Effects Rosehip oil is generally considered safe for topical use. Before using it on larger surface areas, do a small patch test to ensure that you won’t have an adverse reaction. If you notice redness, stinging, itchiness or any other signs of irritation, wash it off and discontinue use. Consult your health care provider before using rosehip oil internally. Although allergic reactions are rare, look out for allergy symptoms like rash, trouble breathing, rapid heart rate, chest discomfort and wheezing. If you are using it internally, keep in mind that it continues high levels of vitamin C, so people with anemia, kidney stones and diabetes should consult their doctors before use. Conclusion Rosehip oil comes from the fruit of the rosebush. These fruits provide important nutrients for skin and more, including healthy fats and vitamin C. You can use roseship oil in your skin care routine to improve your complexion. It can also be used to boost immune function and reduce inflammation. If you’re new to rosehip oil, start by adding a few drops to your favorite skin serum, or simply apply one to two drops to dark spots and fine lines daily. Rosehip Oil: Is It the Ultimate Anti-Aging Oil? Total Time: 5 minutes Serves: Makes several applications INGREDIENTS: 2 ounces organic rosehip oil 15 drops frankincense essential oil 15 drops lavender essential oil Directions: Blend well and place into a small glass jar. Gently massage into the skin of the face at night before going to bed. It is best to make small amounts at a time due to the vulnerability of rosehip oil to rancidity.

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12 Targeted Nutritional Strategies for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

AHA Publisher — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 07:00:11 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 16 million Americans are currently living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a debilitating condition characterized by difficulty breathing and blocked airflow to the lungs. While Western medicine may attempt to treat COPD with drugs such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids, these can feature toxic side effects that can include osteoporosis, pneumonia and even premature death. Fortunately, natural solutions do exist! Scientific research has shown that certain foods and supplements can markedly improve lung function and help alleviate COPD. Let’s take a look at twelve of the most promising nutritional strategies. Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Are the Twin Engines Driving Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease encompasses two primary conditions: emphysema (damage to the tiny air sacs in the lungs that allow for oxygen exchange) and chronic bronchitis due to inflamed airways. As the disease develops, narrowing and scarring of the airway may occur. Common COPD symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent cough, wheezing and the production of sputum. Oxidative stress, in which harmful free radicals lead to cell and tissue damage, is a major factor in COPD. Inflammation – the presence in the lungs of inflammatory cells such as eosinophils -also plays a role. Cigarette smoking, which accounts for 75 percent of cases, is the primary cause of COPD. Exposure to other irritants and fumes – such as coal and woodsmoke – can also play a role. The following nutrients have been shown to help alleviate COPD. Of course, you should consult your experienced integrative doctor before adding any to your daily health routine. Turn to N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) for Natural COPD Relief NAC, a supplement derived from the amino acid cysteine, has been credited by researchers with the ability to dissolve mucous, quell coughs and counteract oxidative stress. Extensive studies have shown that NAC improves symptoms and helps slow declines in lung function. In one influential study, people with moderate-to-severe COPD who were given 1,200 mg a day of NAC improved their performance on post-exercise lung function tests. But, remember: If you have an organ transplant, stomach ulcer or take any medication like, nitroglycerin – talk to your doctor (and pharmacist) before taking NAC. Go with Glutathione for Improved Respiratory Function Glutathione, a natural chemical produced in the liver, plays a vital role in boosting the immune system and neutralizing environmental toxins. Plus, its extraordinary antioxidant powers can help it combat COPD. Glutathione is found in high concentrations in lung epithelial lining fluid and can help improve lung function and reduce inflammation. You can ramp up your dietary intake of glutathione with fresh avocados, asparagus, cucumbers and tomatoes. Eating cruciferous vegetables, such as spinach and cauliflower, also spurs production of glutathione. Natural healers typically advise glutathione in dosages of 500 to 1,000 mg a day. For maximum benefit, opt for a liposomal formulation – and take it with vitamin C. Good News: Studies Suggest CoQ10 Improves Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease A vitamin-like nutrient that is needed for muscle growth and repair, coenzyme Q10 can play an important role in reversing damage to the smooth muscle cells of the airway. One influential clinical study showed that CoQ10 had favorable effects on muscular energy metabolism in patients with COPD. Good dietary sources include grass-fed beef liver, poultry, cold-water fatty fish, spinach and broccoli. Don’t Forget Fish Oil Fish oil is rich in EPA and DHA, a pair of fatty acids hailed for their anti-inflammatory effects. Peer-reviewed clinical studies have shown that these beneficial compounds reduce shortness of breath and inflammatory markers in COPD patients. Natural health experts typically advise dosages of 1,000 to 1,200 mg a day. Research Supports the Value of Resveratrol Resveratrol, a flavonoid found in grapes, peanuts, cocoa and blueberries, has piqued researchers’ interest for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. In a just-published review appearing in Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care, the authors noted that resveratrol decreases inflammation and oxidative stress in the lung – and called it a “promising candidate” for decreasing lung injury from COPD. Utilize the Disease-Fighting Power of Zinc Zinc, an essential trace mineral, is believed to protect the health and function of respiratory cells during lung inflammation or injury. In a study published in Respiratory Medicine, researchers measured the effect of zinc picolinate on volunteers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The team concluded that zinc supplementation could have favorable effects on the antioxidant capacity of COPD patients. Significantly, researchers report that zinc deficiencies are linked with increased risk of both cystic fibrosis and COPD. Good sources of zinc include oysters, grass-fed beef, poultry and pumpkin seeds. Boswellia Serrata – an Ancient Herbal Remedy Earns Scientific Credibility Also known as Indian frankincense, boswellia has been utilized by herbalists for centuries to treat respiratory problems. Animal studies have shown that boswellic acids from frankincense help to block the production of pro-inflammatory chemicals, alleviate airway dysfunction and prevent the progression of experimentally induced lung fibrosis (scarring). These encouraging COPD-fighting results have been reinforced by human studies. One clinical study showed that boswellia caused substantial improvement in COPD by specifically inhibiting human leukocyte elastase (an enzyme which triggers emphysema and chronic bronchitis). Boswellia may be recommended in dosages of 300 to 500 mg, two to three times a day. Quercetin Helps Put the Brakes on Inflammation Quercetin, an antioxidant flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, has been shown to significantly decrease lung inflammation. And, researchers found in one preclinical trial that it helped to prevent COPD from progressing. You can increase dietary intake of quercetin with apples, onions, grapes and green tea. Vitamin D – the “Sunshine Vitamin” – Benefits Lung Function Vitamin D, which is produced in the skin in response to sunlight, has been shown to help regulate airway contraction. Studies have revealed that having low levels of vitamin D raises the risk of COPD – while high-dose vitamin D supplementation has been shown to improve muscle strength and exercise capacity in COPD patients. Natural health experts advise getting 20 minutes of direct sunlight several times a week to ensure sufficient vitamin D levels. You can also boost dietary intake with cold-water fatty fish, cage-free eggs, mushrooms and almonds. While individual needs can vary, integrative doctors typically recommend between 5,000 and 8,000 IU of vitamin D a day. Supplementation is particularly important if you’re deficient. (below 30 ng/mL) Address COPD with Antioxidant Vitamin C Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, has potent antioxidant, antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects that make it useful in treating COPD. In fact, studies have shown that people with low levels of vitamin C have an increased risk of COPD. In a 2016 review, the authors noted that dietary vitamin C can lower oxidative stress and restore the proliferation of alveolar cells in the lungs. Good sources include citrus fruits, red bell peppers, broccoli and strawberries. Many integrative doctors recommend supplementation, with liposomal formulations of vitamin C considered the most bioavailable. Enlist Vitamin E to Help Prevent COPD Like vitamin C, vitamin E can help reduce the odds of developing COPD. In a ten-year population-based trial of over 38,000 women, the scientists concluded that taking 600 IU of vitamin E a day significantly reduced the risk of lung disease. You can ramp up your intake of vitamin E with sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach and wheat germ oil. Scientific Review: Proper Nutrition Linked With Milder COPD Symptoms Overall, a healthy diet is associated with lower risk of COPD – along with better outcomes for those who develop the disease. In research published in European Respiratory Review, the authors noted an association between fruit intake and significantly improved pulmonary function. Antioxidant-rich fruits (along with vegetables, nuts and seeds) are a virtual treasure trove of micronutrients and flavonoids that are particularly helpful to COPD – including the aforementioned quercetin, zinc and vitamins A, C and E. And, cruciferous vegetables like Brussels sprouts, arugula and broccoli not only trigger production of beneficial glutathione – but also contain sulforaphane, an anti-inflammatory plant compound that may help enhance the therapeutic effects of COPD medications. If you are living with COPD, you may find that the twelve natural strategies listed above really can help you to “breathe easier.” Sources for this article: CDC.gov, LifeExtension.com, LungInstitute.com, NIH.gov, NIH.gov, Chiroeco.com, ScienceDirect.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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