green tea Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Stop Smoking With These Natural Nutrients and Techniques

AHA Publisher — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 08:00:35 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cigarette smoking kills 480,000 people in the United States annually. Yet – despite the danger, the increasing social stigma, and the financial burden of a nicotine habit – 38 million Americans continue to smoke. Why? The frustrating truth is that cigarettes are highly addictive, and most smokers find quitting very difficult. Don’t beat yourself up if you haven’t quit – or if you’ve tried and failed. But do resolve to try again. Many ex-smokers report that they didn’t stop smoking on their first try – or even their second or third. While there is no magic potion to stop smoking, research shows that certain herbs, such as green tea, contain compounds that may help boost your odds of success by “taking the edge off” troublesome withdrawal symptoms. Let’s look at four surprising natural interventions that may reduce nicotine cravings and help you stop smoking. Use Green Tea as an Ally in Your Battle to Stop Smoking Smoking is, first and foremost, a ritual, and you’ll want to create alternate ceremonies to replace it. Successful ex-smokers report that the ritual of preparing, lifting, and sipping a steaming cup of coffee or tea can be surprisingly helpful in taming the “nic fits.” Green tea is a particularly great choice. In one encouraging study, researchers reported that theanine, an amino acid in green tea, helped about half the participants cut down on cigarettes – while a third of them were able to stop smoking entirely. Another “plus” for green tea is that it can help alleviate lung damage caused by smoking, with peer-reviewed research showing that regular green tea consumption can reduce the risk of both COPD and lung cancer in cigarette smokers. So when the urge to smoke feels overwhelming, brewing a cup of green tea is a wise move. Sprinkle on the Black Pepper If you’re battling an urge to smoke, it’s not a bad idea to use a liberal hand with the black pepper. Piperine, the active ingredient in black pepper, has mild mood-lifting effects that may help ease irritability and anxiety. In addition, piperine’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities allow it to go to work scavenging harmful free radicals created by smoking. You can also try aromatherapy with black pepper essential oil, which has shown promise in inhibiting nicotine cravings. Natural health experts advise putting a drop or two of black pepper oil on a tissue and sniffing it when cravings strike. In one study, sniffing black pepper oil was shown to reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and promote a calmer mood. Check with your integrative doctor before trying aromatherapy with black pepper oil. Let Acupuncture Point You Toward Quitting Acupuncture is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to address the imbalance of energy (or “chi”) that is believed to trigger illness. Multiple studies have supported the ability of acupuncture to help people stop smoking, especially when used along with counseling and education. Using tiny needles or low-level lasers, practitioners can stimulate acupuncture points, thereby helping to ease the physical and psychological symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. In a peer-reviewed analysis published in The American Journal of Medicine, the researchers reported that acupuncture helped nicotine withdrawal by decreasing adrenocorticotropic hormone – a hormone associated with stress – and promoting the release of mood-lifting endorphins. A trained acupuncturist can even help you find and activate acupuncture points so that you can help quench cravings at home. If you’re looking to free yourself from the deadly habit of smoking, acupuncture is certainly worth a try. GABA: This Calming Amino Acid May Help You Stop Smoking The amino acid known as GABA, or gamma-aminobutyric acid, functions as a neurotransmitter, inhibiting certain brain signals and decreasing the nervous system’s activity. When GABA attaches to receptors in the brain, it can create a calming and anxiety-reducing effect. An intriguing review published in Neuropharmacology suggested that GABA could make cigarettes less appealing to smokers. The scientists credited GABA with inhibiting the pleasurable effects of nicotine and blocking nicotine-seeking behavior, providing strong evidence for its potential effectiveness in nicotine dependence. You can boost your dietary intake of GABA by eating fermented foods such as pickled cabbage (kimchi) and miso. GABA is also available as a supplement, but consult your integrative doctor before trying it. Other useful herbs and supplements to help you stop smoking include lobelia, ginseng, catnip (it’s not just for cats), licorice root, lemon water, vitamin C, and valerian. As always, check with your trusted integrative doctor before adding any supplements to your routine. Finally, don’t forget natural stress-relief techniques, such as yoga, biofeedback, meditation, exercise, hypnotherapy, and deep breathing. These calming practices can be great tools in your campaign to stop smoking. Here’s hoping that these natural techniques help you embark on a new, smoke-free journey. A world of rewards – from cleaner-smelling clothes to lower cancer risk to a fatter wallet – waits at the other end. You can do this, start today! Sources for this article include: CDC.gov EMediHealth.com BetterNutrition.com AcademicOUP.com NIH.gov NIH.gov AJMed.com To read the original article click here.

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Drinking Black Tea May Lower Risk of Death, New Study Shows

AHA Publisher — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 07:00:55 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Almost half a million adults participated in a six-year study to determine the association between tea intake and mortality. The results suggest that drinking at least two cups of black tea daily may reduce your risk of death from common conditions like heart disease and stroke. Study Findings: Black Tea for Longevity A study published in September in Annals of Internal Medicine evaluated the associations of black tea consumption with all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Researchers from the National Cancer Institute provided baseline questionnaires to 498,043 men and women from the U.K. Participants indicated their tea intake and then conducted follow-ups after a median period of 11.2 years. Results show that higher tea intake was modestly associated with lower all-cause mortality risk among adults who drank two or more cups of black tea daily. Tea consumption also reduced the risk of cause-specific mortality from cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart disease and stroke. Researchers also found that results of tea drinking were similar whether or not participants also consumed hot coffee, and genetic scores for caffeine metabolism did not impact the findings. What It Means This isn’t the first time that tea consumption has been evaluated for its effects on mortality, but usually researchers study green tea because of its antioxidant properties. Some studies suggest that the association between black tea consumption and mortality is weak, with no clear trends across categories of consumption. However, we know that black tea is also considered a high-antioxidant food, and evidence that black tea can lower mortality risk, as indicated in this recent study, is promising. This study suggests that drinking two cups of black tea daily can have a significant impact on your health, helping reduce your risk of death generally and when associated with common conditions like cardiovascular disease. Other Black Tea Benefits How does black tea lower mortality risk? It’s loaded in polyphenols and antioxidants that impact several aspects of human health. Black tea benefits include its ability to help: lower blood pressure improve cholesterol levels fight cancer reduce risk of diabetes improve blood sugar levels reduce risk of stroke relieve digestive issues fight bacterial infections reduce cortisol and other stress hormones improve mental alertness alleviate headache pain To experience the perks of drinking black tea, be sure to let the leaves (which are ideally organic and loose) steep for at least two minutes. This ensures that you get the beneficial compounds in your tea that fight oxidative stress and support longevity. Conclusion A study published in September in Annals of Internal Medicine found that black tea consumption was linked to a reduced risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Results suggested that higher black tea intake was modestly associated with lower all-cause mortality risk among adults who drank at least two cups per day. Tea consumption also seemed to reduce the risk of cause-specific mortality from cardiovascular disease, ischemic heart disease and stroke. In addition to this major benefit of black tea highlighted in the study, drinking it can also improve cholesterol levels, reduce the risk of diabetes, fight cancer and relieve digestive complaints. To read the original article click here.

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6 Anti-Inflammatory Teas to Begin Drinking Today

AHA Publisher — Wed, 29 Dec 2021 08:00:44 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – When it comes to immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory drinks, teas are at the top of the list. The antioxidant properties in most teas help to reduce oxidative stress, and the antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties work to boost immune function and overall health. What better way to support your health than by sipping on a comforting, nourishing cup of tea throughout the day? Explore these top anti-inflammatory teas that can benefit your overall wellness in so many ways. Top Anti-Inflammatory Teas 1. Green Tea The benefits of green tea and well-known and plentiful. It’s known as the ultimate anti-aging beverage, and it’s one of the most consumed drinks in the world. Many studies indicate that green tea has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It suppresses the gene and protein expression of inflammatory cytokines. Drinking green tea has shown to improve the quality of life in patients with inflammatory diseases. And a study published in Food and Nutrition Research found that supplementation of green tea has beneficial effects on markers of inflammation and antioxidant status, as well as blood pressure. How to prepare: There are many types of green tea, with sencha being the most popular and matcha green tea gaining popularity because of its high antioxidant content. To prepare green tea, place your tea bag or high-quality tea leaves in a teapot and heat the water to 160–180 degrees Fahrenheit. This is under boiling temperatures so that you don’t reduce the delicate compounds found in green tea. Steep the leaves for 1–3 minutes, or more if the leaves are larger. You can add lemon juice or raw honey to green tea right before drinking. Preparing matcha tea is a different process. For matcha, you’ll add 1 teaspoon of matcha powder to a bowl or cup and 2 ounces of almost boiled water. Then you whisk the powder for one minute until it becomes thick and frothy. Lastly, add 4 more ounces of water before drinking. 2. Chamomile Tea One of the most well-known anti-inflammatory teas is chamomile, which has been used for nearly 5,000 years for its ability to promote tranquility and longevity. Chamomile tea has actually been called an “herbal aspirin” because of its pain-lowering properties. The anti-inflammatory effects of chamomile allow the herb to reduce pain, swelling, redness and underlying issues of inflammation. Research evaluating the benefits of chamomile show that not only can the herb reduce inflammation when consumed in tea form, but it works to improve inflammatory issues when used topically too. Chamomile is often used to treat inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes, and for various bacterial infections of the skin, mouth and respiratory tract. It may also help to soothe gastrointestinal complains and even inflammation of the eye. Just note, people with ragweed allergies sometimes report aggravated symptoms when drinking chamomile tea, so it may not be a suitable choice for people allergic to ragweed. How to prepare: Chamomile tea is the most popular way to consume the herb, and it’s widely available in ready-to-serve tea bags. You can also find chamomile powder and extracts, which are known to be the most potent forms of the herb’s antioxidants. If you are drinking chamomile tea to reduce inflammation, consume 1–4 cups per day. This strong anti-inflammatory herb can be used to make homemade beauty and body care recipes, too, such as this Homemade Bubble Bath with lavender and chamomile. 3. Ginger Tea Drinking ginger tea is a comforting, flavorful way to alleviate inflammation, ease an upset stomach and even control cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Gingerol, the most valuable compound in ginger, has been analyzed for its anti-inflammatory effects. Research published in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggests that this constituent in ginger modulates biochemical pathways that are activated in chronic inflammation. And a 2017 study published in PharmaNutrition indicates that ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties are not limited to its phenolics, but are also due to the combined effects of the root’s metabolites, pungent gingerols and aromatic essential oils. How to prepare: Ginger tea is available in ready-to-serve tea bags that you can find in most grocery stores. You can also make your own ginger tea by following this easy anti-inflammatory herbal tea recipe: Peel and cut a 2-inch knob of ginger into thin slices Add slices to a pot of water and boil for 10–30 minutes (depending on your desired potency) Strain and discard ginger When ready to drink, add fresh lemon or organic honey for sweetness 4. Peppermint Tea Peppermint has proven to possess anti-inflammatory, antiviral and anti-microbial properties. It’s often used to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and support respiratory health by reducing congestion and opening the airways. It’s known as one of the best teas for inflammation of the stomach. How to prepare: You can easily find peppermint tea in bag form at your local grocery store. There are also loose leaf tea options on the market. If you have peppermint oil at home, you can make an anti-inflammatory tea by adding two drops to green, white or black tea. This is an excellent remedy for upset stomach, respiratory issues and fatigue. 5. Turmeric Tea Turmeric tea is made by steeping turmeric root or powder. This is an easy way to add anti-inflammatory turmeric to your diet. The most active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and has shown in vitro studies to reduce markers of inflammation. Research suggests that turmeric tea also helps to boost immune function by reducing inflammation and preventing oxidative stress. The antioxidants in turmeric help to optimize your overall health. How to prepare: Turmeric tea is available in ready-to-serve tea bags. It can also be made from turmeric that is dried, ground or in powdered forms. To make your own, add 1–2 tablespoons of turmeric to 4 cups of water and let it simmer for 10 minutes. You can also try this Turmeric Tea Recipe that’s made with coconut milk, ghee and honey. 6. Yerba Mate Yerba mate is a plant that belongs to the holly family and its leaves and young twigs are shredded and aged to make loose-leaf tea. Yerba mate contains polyphenols and saponins that help to boost the immune system and support the body’s ability to protect itself from disease. Yerba mate is also nutrient-dense, containing multiple vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fatty aids, tannins, amino acids and chlorophyll. Research shows that yerba mate has a high antioxidant capacity and protects DNA from oxidation. How to prepare: Yerba mate is available in loose-leaf, ready-to-brew tea bags. You can also find it as a bottled cold beverage. When making a loose leaf tea, bring water or milk to a simmer, not a boil, add about one teaspoon per cup and let it steep for 3–5 minutes. For flavor, you can add lemon, mint or your favorite natural sweetener. Risks and Side Effects It’s possible that you’re allergic to one of these anti-inflammatory herbs, so discontinue drinking the tea if you experience food allergy symptoms, like itching, swelling or hives. Drinking too much of these top anti-inflammatory teas may, in some cases, cause heart burn, diarrhea or upset stomach. If this occurs, cut back on the amount of tea you are consuming. When drinking anti-inflammatory teas for medicinal or therapeutic purposes, stick to 1–2 cups a day, unless advised differently by your healthcare professional. This will minimize the risk of adverse side effects. Final Thoughts The top anti-inflammatory teas are made with herbs and roots that help to reduce inflammatory markers and oxidative stress that lead to disease. The best natural anti-inflammatory teas are available in ready-to-serve tea bags that can be found in most grocery stores and they can be prepared at home by steeping the herb or root for several minutes. Drinking about two cups (or more if well-tolerated) of anti-inflammatory tea will help to promote immune function and overall health. To read the original article click here.

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Jasmine Tea Benefits for Skin, Brain & Heart Health (Plus How to Make It)

AHA Publisher — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 08:00:13 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Records show that starting in the late 1300s during the China’s Ming dynasty, jasmine tea became one of the most popular teas in Asia. It was also one of the first flavored teas to be exported out of China to the West and today still remains a very sought-after tea worldwide. Is it as healthy as other teas? Not only does it have a soothing aroma and soft, floral taste, but benefits of jasmine tea include its ability to fight inflammation, protect cells from oxidative stress and support a healthy metabolism. What Is Jasmine Tea? What is jasmine tea made out of? It’s typically a type of green tea that’s made with the addition of steeped jasmine flowers. Jasmine plants are members of the olive family, also called the Oleaceaeplant family. The flowers used to make this type of are usually derived from two related plant species: “Common Jasmine” (Jasminum officinale) or “Sampaguita “(Jasminum sambac). These plants are native to the Middle East, including Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Jasmine is considered to be a health-promoting, anti-inflammatory teabecause it contains antioxidants, including polyphenols. Polyphenols like EGCG have been shown to have free radical-scavenging abilities and other beneficial effects that help protect cells and tissues throughout the body. What is the taste of jasmine tea? It’s described as having a soothing, light, floral and clean but somewhat perfumed taste. Other traits used to describe the overall flavor profile include: sweet fresh blossomed dewy bouquet delicate subtle Green tea itself can sometimes be bitter depending on how it’s made, so jasmine tea might have a bit of bitterness, too. However, jasmine flowers themselves are said to have a naturally relaxing and soft scent, which some researchers suggests can help to support a positive mood and provide stress relief. Types/Varieties The most commonly produced type of jasmine tea is the kind made with green tea. In some cases it may also be made by steeping jasmine flowers in white, oolong or black tea. Depending on the specific type of tea, it might be mixed with other flavors or scented ingredients, such as: lavender or chamomile flowers fruit spices oils extracts natural or artificial flavors Jasmine tea varieties differ from one another based on the exact type of leaves and flowers used in the tea, plus how they are steeped and for how long. Various amounts and types of green tea leaves many be used, which have different “grades” depending on the species and how they are harvested and processed. When it comes time to steep the flowers to make this tea, two different methods are primarily utilized: the layering method and the mixing method. The traditional layering method uses fresh jasmine flowers that are slowly dried on top of green tea leaves to improve the aroma and flavor by infusing the green tea before the tea is dried and packaged. The other method uses wilted flowers mixed in with green tea leaves. Additionally, some manufacturers don’t use jasmine flowers but instead use jasmine essential oil, which is made by extracting the oils from jasmine plants. This essential oil is extremely expensive and rich in phytonutrients. To cut costs, today some tea makers also use “jasmine natural flavor” or artificial jasmine flavor mixed with other teas, but this doesn’t have the same benefits as using actual flowers or essential oil. Benefits/Uses 1. High in Antioxidants One of the most well-researched jasmine tea benefits if its supply of antioxidants, especially polyphenols and catechins, such as EGCG (which stands for epigallocatechin-3-gallate). These protective compounds are most abundantly present when the tea is made with good-quality green tea (from the Camellia sinensis plant). Antioxidants such as catechins and EGCG are know to promote a healthy inflammation response, support normal cholesterol levels, and help protect the skin, heart and brain from free radical damage. They may also have the ability to fight caner by reducing tumor cell growth, decreasing tumor size and suppressing the spread of cancer cells. Some specific flavanols and antioxidants found in jasmine green tea include: EGCG epicatechin epigallocatechin gallocatechin other gallate derivatives several sesquiterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects and help promote healthy circulation EGCG is associated with additional anti-aging health perks, such as enhanced metabolic activities that may prevent weight gain, and a boost in thermogenesis (the body producing heat by using energy). It may also help manage your appetite and support healthy blood sugar levels. 2. Can Lift Energy and Focus In addition to polyphenols, jasmine tea and green tea contain the amino acid l-theanine, which has positive effects on cognitive health, including the ability to increase alertness without causing “jitters” like some stimulants can. This tea also contains small amounts of caffeine, which can improve concentration and motivation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, jasmine tea is said to increase yang qualities, meaning it has warm, dry and bright qualities that make it uplifting. It’s recommended for people with “low yang,” such as those who live in cold climates, have lethargy or low energy, or who work too much or feel overly depleted. 3. Has a Relaxing Scent and Taste Jasmine tea is unique in that it has both stimulating and calming effects. The flower petals are thought to have a floral, calming aroma in part due to the presence of the compound called linalool. Studies suggest that smelling linalool can help promote activity of your parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of your nervous system that helps you relax. Since it assists your body and mind in unwinding, this tea can potentially aid in lowering your heart rate and reducing muscle tension. It may even increase release of the “feel good” chemical called GABA, which has mood-boosting effects. L-theanine found within this tea also helps support a healthier response to stress, leading to improved relaxation and potentially benefits like better sleep. How to Make It Can I drink jasmine tea every day? Yes — considering jasmine tea benefits many different parts of your body, including your heart and brain, it’s an ideal type of tea to enjoy daily. This is assuming you don’t respond poorly to low amounts of caffeine intake. Which type should I buy? When purchasing jasmine tea you’ll have the option of either buying loose-leaf teas or bagged tea bags. According to the Teatulia website, “There are at least seven provinces in China that produce jasmine tea, but the most famous and most traditionally scented jasmine tea comes out of the Fujian region.” Look for teas made in the region if you’re looking for top quality. How should the tea be stored? Green teas are typically best consumed within six months to a year of purchase. To keep teas fresh, store them in a cool, dark place that is dry, away from light, oxygen and moisture. How do I make it? To preserve the delicate antioxidants in green tea and jasmine petals, use very hot water but not boiling water. Ideally aim to use water that is around 160 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. (It should be simmering, not boiling.) You can get the right temperature by allowing boiling water to rest a minute before pouring it over the tea leaves. Add about one teaspoon of loose-leaf jasmine tea for every one cup of water. If using “jasmine pearls,” use about 2–3 pearls per cup of water. Jasmine green tea should steep anywhere from 30 seconds to 5 minutes depending on how the tea was processed. Most experts recommend steeping for about 3 minutes on average. The finished product should usually have a pale golden-yellow color with floral notes and a fresh finish. When making this tea, you might find that finished product has a bit of an astringent taste. If this occurs, you can improve the taste by lowering how long you steep the tea, lowering the steeping temperature and purchasing high-quality jasmine tea leaves or flowers. Caffeine Content Is jasmine tea high in caffeine? Considering it’s a type of green tea, it has the same caffeine content as other green teas. The addition of jasmine flowers does not add more caffeine. How much caffeine is in green tea/jasmine tea? It has 28 milligrams of caffeine per cup, which is less than coffee (95 mg per cup) and black tea (47 mg per cup). The amount of caffeine per cup varies depending on the exact type of tea as well as how is was processed and prepared. The caffeine in jasmine tea makes it different than most “herbal teas,” such as peppermint, ginger or chamomile teas, which are typically caffeine-free. To reap the most benefits of jasmine tea without experiencing side effects, stick to about two to three cups per day. Risks and Side Effects While it’s generally safe to consume, people sensitive to caffeine should be careful of their tea intake. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should drink no more than one or two cups per day, as some research shows that more caffeine than this amount may interfere with normal heart rhythms. Consuming caffeinated teas on on an empty stomach may also cause an upset stomach in some people. If this occurs, try having it with a meal. Conclusion Jasmine tea is a type of flower-scented tea that is most often made by steeping jasmine flowers in green tea. Benefits of jasmine tea are similar to those of green tea, such as providing polyphenols and other antioxidants. These compounds, such as flavanols and sesquiterpenoids, have many anti-aging effects and can help protect the heart, skin and brain. Jasmine tea is both uplifting and calming. It can help increase alertness (it contains small amounts of caffeine and the compound EGCG) but can also help the body cope with stress. Enjoy two to three cups per day for the most benefits. You can make it at home with loose tea leaves or flowers, or use dried jasmine pearls or tea bags. To read the original article click here.

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Quercetin: 8 Proven Benefits of This Antioxidant (#1 Is Incredible)

AHA Publisher — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 07:00:41 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever wondered what makes a “superfood” super? Or what top superfoods like red wine, green tea, kale and blueberries all have in common? The answer is quercetin, a natural compound tied to what all of us seek: better longevity, heart health, endurance, immunity, and more. Quercetin is considered to be the most widely distributed and extensively studied flavonoid, according to a 2018 review. It’s been shown in dozens of studies to have anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities. In fact, there isn’t much this powerful antioxidant compound can’t do, especially when combined with the health benefits of bromelain, an anti-inflammatory enzyme. All this explains why many experts recommend consuming food sources that contain quercetin regularly. So what are those foods, and how much should you consume? Let’s explore. What Is Quercetin? Quercetin is a type of flavonoid antioxidant that’s found in plant foods, including leafy greens, tomatoes, berries and broccoli. It’s technically considered a “plant pigment,” which is exactly why it’s found in deeply colored, nutrient-packed fruits and vegetables. Considered one of the most abundant antioxidants in the human diet, quercetin plays an important part in fighting free radical damage, the effects of aging and inflammation, according to many studies. While you can get plenty of it from eating a healthy diet, some people also take this compound in concentrated supplement form for even stronger anti-inflammatory effects. What is quercetin used for? According to the Department of Pathology and Diagnostics at the University of Verona in Italy, quercetin glycosides and other flavonoids, (like kaempferol and myricetin) are “anti-viral, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic agents.” They have potential to be expressed positively in different cell types in both animals and humans. Flavonoid polyphenols are most beneficial for down-regulating or suppressing inflammatory pathways and functions. Quercetin is considered the most diffused and known nature-derived flavonol there is, showing strong effects on immunity and inflammation caused by leukocytes and other intracellular signals. How It Works Research shows that anti-inflammatory foods containing quercetin can help manage a number of inflammatory health problems, including heart disease and blood vessel problems, allergies, infections, chronic fatigue, and symptoms related to autoimmune disorders like arthritis. How exactly do flavonoids benefit us? It all comes down to high-antioxidant foods‘ ability to be “scavenge free radicals.” As a major bioflavonoid in our diets, quercetin (a type of “polyphenolic antioxidant”) helps slow the aging progress because it lessens the effects of oxidative stress on the body. Oxidative stress takes place in all of us but is increased by things like a poor diet, high levels of stress, a lack of sleep and exposure to chemical toxins. Quercetin plays a role in regulating the immune system’s response to outside stressors through cell signaling pathways called kinases and phosphatases, two types of enzyme and membrane proteins needed for proper cellular function. Benefits 1. Lowers Inflammation Flavonoids, (aka bioflavonoids or bioflavonoide) including quercetin, are important anti-inflammatories because they act as antioxidants, which mean they literally fight the natural process of “oxidation” that takes place over time as we age. Quercetin can help stop damaging particles in the body known as free radicals, which negatively impact how cells work — including damaging cell membranes, changing the way DNA works, increasing cell mutations and causing healthy cells to die. It can also reduce expression of inflammatory genes such as interleukin. Research now shows us that inflammation is the root of most diseases, including heart disease, cancer, cognitive decline, some mental disorders and autoimmune disorders. At this time, practitioners and patients report using quercetin to effectively fight conditions related to inflammation, including: “hardening of the arteries” (atherosclerosis) high cholesterol heart disease and circulation problems insulin resistance and diabetes eye-related disorders, including cataracts allergies, asthma and hay fever stomach ulcers cognitive impairment gout viral infections inflammation of the prostate, bladder and ovaries chronic fatigue syndrome cancer chronic infections of the prostate skin disorders, including dermatitis and hives 2. Fights Allergies Is quercetin an antihistamine? Some consider it to be a natural antihistamine and an anti-inflammatory, possibly making it effective for lowering the effects of seasonal and food allergies, plus asthma and skin reactions. However, most research to date has been conducted on animals and not humans. Histamines are chemicals that are released when the immune system detects an allergy or sensitivity, and they are what account for uncomfortable symptoms we face whenever the body has an allergic reaction. Quercetin can help stabilize the release of histamines from certain immune cells, which results in decreased symptoms like coughs, watery eyes, runny noses, hives, swollen lips or tongue, and indigestion. It’s long been used in ancient Chinese herbal formulas created to block allergies to certain foods (such as peanuts). Studies conducted on mice suggest that it may be equivalent at fighting allergies as some prescription medications, all with little to no side effects. 3. Supports Heart Health Because of its ability to lower inflammation and oxidative stress, quercetin seems to be beneficial for people with heart and blood vessel-related disorders, according to a number of studies. For example, eating lots of deeply colored fruits and veggies that contain flavonoids is linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, and even death, in older adults, among reduced risk for vascular diseases. It’s also been connected to reduced risk for type 2 diabetes and obesity, which have many of the same risk factors as heart disease. Studies done in animal and some human populations show that various types of flavonoids (quercetin, resveratrol and catechins, for example) can help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, which is a dangerous condition caused by plaque building up within the arteries. Cut-off blood flow in the arteries is one of the primary risk factors for experiencing a heart attack or stroke, which is why cardiac arrest is less likely among people who eat a nutrient-packed diet. Antioxidants also seem to protect the body from experiencing increases in LDL “bad” cholesterol and can help regulate blood pressure levels. Certain studies show that quercetin prevents damage to LDL cholesterol particles, and it seems that people who eat the most flavonoid-rich foods typically have healthier and lower cholesterol levels, plus fewer incidences of hypertension and high blood pressure. In fact, if you’ve ever heard that red wine is good for your heart, that’s because it’s a natural source of quercetin. It’s one of the main active ingredients in red wine extract, which is associated with healthier heart function. 4. Helps Fight Pain Taking quercetin supplements may help lower pain associated with autoimmune conditions such as arthritis, as well as infections, including those of the prostate and respiratory tract. That’s because studies suggest quercetin reduces inflammatory pain. For example, there’s some evidence from several small studies that people experiencing bladder pains from infections (causing an urgent need to urinate, swelling and burning) have fewer symptoms when taking quercetin supplements. Flavonoids are also linked to reduced symptoms of prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There’s evidence that when patients with RA switch from eating a “typical Western diet” to one higher in antioxidant-rich foods (like uncooked berries, fruits, vegetables, nuts, roots, seeds and sprouts), they experience less pain and reoccurring symptoms. 5. Might Help Improve Energy and Endurance Quercetin is added to some athletic supplements because it’s believed to help increase athletic performance and endurance, likely because of its positive effects on blood flow. Researchers from the School of Applied Physiology at the Georgia Institute of Technology found that, on average, “quercetin provides a statistically significant benefit in human endurance exercise capacity (VO2 max) and endurance exercise performance).” While improvements were at times small, it makes sense that antioxidants could boost physical performance since they help increase the health of blood vessels, which carry oxygen and nutrients to muscle and joint tissue. Other studies also show that it helps increase immune function and prevents susceptibility to illnesses that can occur when someone trains intensely and experiences exhaustion. One study found evidence that taking 500 milligrams of quercetin twice daily helped protect cyclers from developing exercise-induced respiratory infections following periods of heavy exercise. Because it can boost your energy level, does quercetin affect sleep? For example, is there a link between quercetin and insomnia? One study found evidence that it may alter the sleep-wake cycle partly through activation of GABA receptors. However, insomnia is generally not believed to be a common side effect of taking it in dietary supplement form. 6. Might Help Fight Cancer A Boston University School of Medicine study published in the Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents shows a link between a nutrient-dense diet rich in quercetin plus other antioxidants and a lowered risk of cancer. Quercetin seems to have potential chemo-preventive activity and might have a unique antiproliferative effect on cancerous cells, making it an effective addition to any natural cancer treatment approach. Research shows that this may result from the modulation of either EGFR or estrogen-receptor pathways. Recent studies have found quercetin can help stop the processes involved in cell proliferation and mutation, the growth of tumors, and symptoms related to typical cancer treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy. At this time, the majority of studies done on quercetin’s effects on cellular functioning have involved animals, so more research is still needed to reveal specific effects on human cancer cells. This is especially true when taken in high doses above the amount someone would get from a healthy diet. 7. Helps Protect Skin Health Capable of blocking “mast cells,” which are immune cells critical in triggering allergic reactions, inflammatory disease and autoimmune disease, researchshows that quercetin helps protect skin from the effects of disorders like dermatitis and photosensitivity. Flavonoids like quercetin block the release of many pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-8 and TNF, which helps stop symptoms related to skin inflammation, even in people who don’t find relief from other conventional treatments or prescriptions. Studies have found that this compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that help fight allergic and inflammatory diseases, as well as some prescriptions, when taken in oral supplement form. For example, some people take quercetin for eczema since it can inhibit the secretion of histamine and pro-inflammatory markers. 8. Protects Liver Health Recent research has shown that this antioxidant has protective effects when administered to rats with ethanol-induced acute liver injury. Researchers concluded that “quercetin, by multiple mechanisms interplay, demonstrates hepatoprotective effect on liver-injury induced by alcohol, by increasing ethanol metabolizing enzyme activities, increasing antioxidant system activities against oxidative stress, lowering the expressions of pro-inflammation cytokines.” A 2017 study found evidence indicating that quercetin attenuates liver inflammation and fibrosis in mice through inhibiting macrophages infiltration. Researchers believe it “holds promise as potential therapeutic agent for human fibrotic liver disease”, a condition triggered by liver injury and inflammation. 9. Protects Against Neurological Disorders There’s mounting evidence showing that quercetin offers neuroprotective benefits, due to its ability to defend the brain against oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to potentially less risk for cognitive conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. A 2018 study concluded that “findings suggest a possible new protective role for dietary flavonoids on alzheimer’s disease (AD).” The study found that administration of quercetin in early-middle stages of AD pathology ameliorates cognitive dysfunction and boosts protection mainly related to increased Aβ clearance and reduced astrogliosis, which is related to destruction of neurons. Related: Berberine: The Plant Alkaloid that Helps Treat Diabetes & Digestive Problems Food Sources What foods have the most quercetin? All types of tasty red, green and purple-pigmented plants come packed with quercetin — for example, red wine, blueberries, apples, red onion and even green tea are some of the best sources. Quercetin is actually believed to be the most abundant flavonoid in the human diet. But the amount found in plant foods can vary a lot depending on where they’re grown, how fresh they are, how they’re prepared and so on. Some of the top sources of quercetin to add to your diet include: Apples Peppers Red wine Dark cherries and berries (blueberries, bilberries, blackberries and others) Tomatoes Cruciferous veggies, including broccoli, cabbage and sprouts Leafy green veggies, including spinach, kale Citrus fruits Cocoa Cranberries Whole grains, including buckwheat Raw...

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Is Green Tea a Cancer Killer?

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

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

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The Surprising Link Between These Foods and Depression, Anxiety and Other Mental Health Issues

AHA Publisher — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 07:00:29 +0000

Lorie Johnson via CBN News – Macaroni and cheese, hot fudge sundaes and other comfort foods have become our go-to fixes during the pandemic to help brighten our days and soothe a lonely night. Unfortunately, what’s in these guilty pleasures can make blue moods and other mental health problems worse, not better, as researchers continue to discover a link between what we eat and how we feel. Mental Health Problems on the Rise The number of Americans seeking help for depression and anxiety skyrocketed 93-percent in 2020 compared to 2019. While some of that can be blamed on the COVID-19 impact, research shows mental illness has steadily increased for years. In fact, 40 million Americans deal with some mental health concern. That’s more than the populations of New York and Florida combined. These disorders make the list of the most common causes of death and disability. Suicide scores as a leading cause of death no matter the age group. Harvard Psychiatrist Uma Naidoo told CBN News, “We need to understand that the silent pandemic going on is one around mental illness – people feeling more depressed, more blue, not sleeping well, feeling extremely stressed and traumatized by everything that’s going on,” she said. It’s the Food Meanwhile, three out of four Americans are either overweight or obese – the highest level ever. As it turns out, there’s a link between the skyrocketing weight gain and the sharp increase in mental health problems, according to Naidoo and a growing number of mental health experts. The same foods that trigger weight gain can also lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. Dr. Naidoo founded and directs the first hospital-based Nutritional Psychiatry Service in the United States. She is the Director of Nutritional and Lifestyle Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital while serving on the faculty at Harvard Medical School. She is the author of the book, This is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More. “The foods that we call comfort foods are actually discomfort for our brain,” she said. As a result, Dr. Naidoo is one of a growing number of psychiatrists and other mental health professionals using healthy foods to treat their patients. “Not that a person shouldn’t see their doctor and take medication if they need it,” she explained, “But we also can start today at the end of our fork by making healthier choices in how we eat.” The Gut-Brain Axis Dr. Naidoo says a healthy brain begins with a healthy gut. “Essentially the gut and brain,” she explained. “Even though they are in different parts of the body, they actually arise from the same cells in the embryo and they divide up and turn into these two organs, and then they remain connected throughout life.” That key connection, the gut-brain axis, is a two-way superhighway sending constant chemical messaging back and forth via the vagus nerve. The chemicals, for better or worse, are determined by the type of bacteria, good or bad, found in the gut. “When we’re feeding those microbes lots of sugary treats, lots of refined sugars, lots of soda, what unfortunately happens is the bad microbes get fed, and when they get fed sugary foods, they overcome the good microbes,” Dr. Naidoo said. Sugar Bad, Vegetables Good Several studies including MRI imaging that shows excessive sugar consumption makes depression and anxiety worse. Dr. Naidoo says processed foods are loaded with sugar, even those that don’t seem sweet. “Unfortunately things like French fries from fast-food restaurants are actually made with added sugar,” she said. “We don’t taste that, but they’re made to be hyper-palatable. So just be aware of hidden sugars.” Believe it or not, many fake sugars are just as bad for the gut or in some cases worse than real sugar. “Several of the artificial sweeteners, unfortunately, can drive anxiety, worsen depression and disrupt those gut microbes,” she said. Dr. Naidoo recommends adding colorful vegetables, like leafy greens to your menu, which contain folate. “Folate, when there’s a low level in the brain, actually can lead to depression,” she said. She advises her patients to load up on antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries and green tea. “We are combating oxidative stress,” she explained, “Which is really good, and much better for our mental well-being.” She tells her psychiatric patients to eat plenty of healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and things like salmon and walnuts which contain high levels of Omega-3 fats. Not Just Depression and Anxiety Dr. Naidoo believes in addition to relieving depression and anxiety, that this approach can also have a positive impact on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Schizophrenia, Bi-Polar Disorder and other mental health challenges. “It doesn’t exclude the use of medications when needed,” she explained, “but it provides individuals with additional tools in their tool kit to really uplift their mental health.” An added benefit is that a healthy diet can also increase a medication’s effectiveness. In her book, This is Your Brain on Food: An Indispensable Guide to the Surprising Foods that Fight Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and More, Dr. Naidoo lists specific foods that alleviate certain mental health problems. She also provides dozens of recipes that address specific mental health challenges. HERE ARE THREE OF THOSE RECIPES AS FEATURED ON THE 700 CLUB: Hearty Vegetable Soup – Fights Depression This soup has peas for magnesium, broccoli for iron, and sweet potatoes for vitamin A. It is low in saturated fat and high in fiber and antioxidants. Servings: 4 Prep Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Ingredients 2 Tablespoons olive oil 1 leek, sliced 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 1 cup fresh or frozen peas 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets 1 sweet potato, unpeeled, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 1 Tablespoon kosher salt, plus more if needed 1 teaspoon black pepper, plus more if needed 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley 4-6 cups hot vegetable stock or filtered water Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) Directions Heat the oil in a cast-iron Dutch oven on medium heat. Add the leek and garlic and sauté for 3-5 minutes, until the leek is soft and almost translucent. Add the peas, broccoli florets, sweet potato, salt, pepper, thyme, and dried parsley and allow to cook, stirring the mixture once or twice for 3-5 minutes. Once the vegetables appear partly cooked, add the vegetable stock. Partially cover, and allow the soup to simmer on medium for about 20 minutes. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Mushroom and Spinach Frittata – Fights Anxiety (gluten-free, dairy-free) This easy-to-make frittata has mushrooms for a vitamin D boost and spinach for magnesium. You could save pieces for lunch for the next 2 days or save for up to 1 month in the freezer. Servings: 6 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 18 minutes Ingredients 5 whole eggs 1 cup almond milk 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 1/2 teaspoons dried parsley 1 Tablespoon olive oil 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen and thawed) 1 cup mushrooms, chopped Directions Preheat the oven to 300 degrees. Line a 9-inch round casserole dish with parchment paper. In a medium bowl whisk the eggs with the milk, salt, pepper and parsley and set aside. Heat the oil in a medium cast-iron pan over medium heat. If using frozen spinach, wrap in cheesecloth (or a clean dish towel or paper towel) and squeeze to remove the excess water. Sauté the spinach and mushrooms in the oil until the mushrooms are lightly brown, about 3 minutes. Allow to cool. Place the cooled mushroom-spinach mixture in the casserole dish. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, cover with foil and bake until the eggs are just set, 15-18 minutes. Ovens vary, so make sure the eggs are set before removing the frittata from the oven. Cut into 6 even pieces and serve. Chia Pudding Topped with Nuts and Berries – Fights Trauma (vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free) Chia pudding is a great way to start the day and doesn’t require any early-morning prep. Since it has to set in the fridge overnight, you can prepare it the night before and then eat on the go. Servings: 2 Prep Time: 10 minutes Ingredients 1/2 cup organic canned light coconut milk 1/2 teaspoon honey 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 Tablespoons chia seeds Raspberries, blueberries, walnuts or other fruit Directions Pour the coconut milk into a mason jar and stir in the honey, vanilla, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the chia seeds on top. Screw the lid of the mason jar on and shake well so that the seeds mix with the milk. Chill overnight in the fridge. Serve topped with nuts and berries. To read the original article click here. For more articles from CBN News click here.

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New Study Into Green Tea’s Potential to Help Tackle COVID-19

AHA Publisher — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 07:00:54 +0000

Swansea University via Newswise – As India continues to be ravaged by the pandemic, a Swansea University academic is investigating how green tea could give rise to a drug capable of tackling Covid-19. Dr Suresh Mohankumar carried out the research with colleagues in India during his time at JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research in Ooty prior to taking up his current role at Swansea University Medical School. He said: “Nature’s oldest pharmacy has always been a treasure of potential novel drugs and we questioned if any of these compounds could assist us in battling the Covid-19 pandemic? “We screened and sorted a library of natural compounds already know to be active against other coronaviruses using an artificial intelligence-aided computer programme. “Our findings suggested that one of the compounds in green tea could combat the coronavirus behind Covid-19.” The researchers’ work has now been highlighted by online journal RSC Advances and has been included in its prestigious hot articles collection chosen by editors and reviewers. Associate Professor Dr Mohankumar emphasised that the research was still in its early days and a long way from any kind of clinical application. “The compound that our model predicts to be most active is gallocatechin, which is present in green tea and could be readily available, accessible, and affordable. There now needs to be further investigation to show if it can be proven clinically effective and safe for preventing or treating Covid-19. “This is still a preliminary step, but it could be a potential lead to tackling the devastating Covid-19 pandemic. Dr Mohankumar has worked in pharmacy education, research and administration around the world for more than 18 years and recently moved to Swansea to join its new MPharm programme. Head of Pharmacy Professor Andrew Morris said: “This is fascinating research and demonstrates that natural products remain an important source of lead compounds in the fight against infectious diseases. I’m also really pleased to see this international research collaboration continuing now that Dr Mohankumar has joined the Pharmacy team.” Dr Mohankumar added he is now looking forward to seeing how the work can be developed: “There now needs to be appropriate pre-clinical and clinical studies and we would welcome potential collaborators and partners to help carry this work forward.” To read the original article click here.

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7 Superfoods to Help You Prevent Sunburn

AHA Publisher — Thu, 27 May 2021 07:00:47 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Slathering your body with a goopy white chemical concoction may not be the only way to protect your skin from the damaging effects of a sunburn. It turns out that what you eat can have a dramatic effect on your tendency to burn. God didn’t make mistakes when creating human beings. We are not meant to be as vulnerable to the sun as we currently think we are. In fact, the sun is a life giving force that supplies the body with essential nutrients such as vitamin D. But if this true, how did we get to be so afraid of the sun? Catalyst vs. Cause Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime. It is estimated that between 40 to 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will develop a carcinogenic skin tumor. That is scary! Skin cancer is a serious issue that is certainly associated with overexposure to the sun in many cases. However, people also often develop skin cancers in areas rarely – if ever – exposed to the sun, such as the armpit or the groin. This means that sunburn is not the root cause of skin cancer, but instead more like a catalyst for its formation. It is true that a life of excessive sun exposure and sun damage will likely make your body more susceptible to skin cancer, but this is much more likely if your body is already in a weakened and vulnerable state due to poor diet and lifestyle choices. In other words, the sun isn’t the cause of skin cancer, but a toxic and inflamed body is. Sunburn = Skin Inflammation The redness, burning sensation, and eventual blistering associated with a severe sunburn are part of the body’s natural inflammatory response to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Sunburn is basically the body’s warning sign that it has reached its limit of UV exposure. What’s interesting however, is that a healthy body – regardless of skin pigmentation – can handle much more UV radiation before triggering the inflammatory response that leads to sunburn. The Science A study conducted by German researchers found that foods high in antioxidant compounds dramatically affect how the skin reacts to sun exposure. The researchers gave half the participants of the study antioxidant-rich tomatoes and olive oil. The other half of participants ate the same diet except without the tomatoes and olive oil. At the conclusion of the 10 week study, the participants who consumed the tomatoes (1/4 cup daily) and the olive oil (2 tsp daily), experienced a whopping 35% less reddening than the control group! That’s a significant result. This is likely due to the anti-inflammatory and free-radical scavenging effect of the antioxidants found in tomatoes and olive oil. 7 Superfoods to Prevent Sunburn Now that we know how food can affect the skin’s ability to handle sun exposure, here are 7 powerful superfoods to protect your skin from the inside-out: Green Tea – Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins that are protective against UV damage Spirulina & Chlorella – Both of these nutritious species of edible algae contain a powerful carotenoid called Astaxanthin. This antioxidant is about 550 times stronger than Vitamin E, making it a great defense against UV damage to the skin and eyes Broccoli – Broccoli is loaded with an antioxidant called sulforaphane which provides powerful protection against UV radiation Pomegranate – Pomegranate is famous for it’s various antioxidant polyphenol compounds that can help protect the skin from oxidative damage. Blueberries – These delicious little berries are antioxidant powerhouses and help move the lymph allowing the body to detox and repair more readily Acerola Cherry – This superfood is loaded with vitamin C and phycocyanins which are considered to be the plants naturally occurring sunscreen. Krill Oil – The omega 3 fatty acids EPA and DHA found in fish and krill oil are essential to a healthy inflammatory response in the body. They also allow the cells of the body to more easily harvest the electrons from the sun leading to less tendency for sunburn Eat With the Seasons Do you notice a pattern in these foods? Most are foods that are at peak ripeness during the warmer months, or typically grow in tropical equatorial areas that receive massive amounts on sun exposure. Is this coincidence? Or God’s infinite intelligence at work? We have been provided the foods we need to thrive in the environment which we inhabit. Go to your local farmer’s market and try to find fresh antioxidant rich fruits and vegetables to naturally protect your skin from the sun. You can also get you antioxidants from the high quality fruit and vegetable extracts in Divine Health’s premium nutritional supplements. The antioxidant rich greens mentioned above can be found in Dr. Colbert’s Fermented Green Supremefood formula. For the benefits of the polyphenols in fruits and berries, try Dr Colbert’s Organic Red Supremefood. If you don’t want to eat a bunch of sardines everyday, you can try Dr. Colbert’s Living Krill Oil. References https://elissagoodman.com/healthy-tips/eat-to-avoid-sunburn/ https://www.sunislife.com/healthy-eating-prevents-sunburn/ http://www.thrive-style.com/2014/03/8-foods-prevent-sunburn/ http://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/ask-the-experts/is-sun-exposure-the-only-cause-of-skin-cancer To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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