natural health Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Powerful Health Secrets Inside Pomegranates: What Science Says About This Ancient Superfruit

The AHA! Team — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:20:27 +0000

Olivia Cook via Natural News – Pomegranates aren’t just a tasty treat – they’re packed with an array of essential nutrients and powerful bioactive compounds that make them a nutritional powerhouse. Essential vitamins Pomegranates are loaded with essential vitamins (C, K, B5, folate), fiber and powerful antioxidants like punicalagin and flavonoids that help protect cells from oxidative damage. Regular consumption of pomegranate juice has been shown to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels and support overall cardiovascular function through compounds like punicalagin and punicic acid. Pomegranates help reduce chronic inflammation, which is linked to diseases like arthritis and diabetes, and strengthen immune defenses thanks to their rich polyphenolic and antioxidant content. Compounds such as ellagic acid and urolithins in pomegranates inhibit cancer cell growth, promote apoptosis (cell death) and may prevent tumor development and spread, particularly breast, colon and prostate cancers. Pomegranate-derived urolithins support brain function, protect against cognitive decline and promote cellular energy and longevity by enhancing mitochondrial health and reducing neuroinflammation. The vibrant ruby-red pomegranates are most commonly associated with their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Recent studies, however, suggest that the health benefits of pomegranates go far beyond antioxidants. Researchers have also delved into clinical trials where participants consumed pomegranate juice or extracts to examine its effects on the body. What they discovered was truly exciting – pomegranates may support heart health, boost brain function, reduce inflammation-related conditions and disorders and more – promoting overall well-being. Pomegranates aren’t just a tasty treat – they’re packed with an array of essential nutrients and powerful bioactive compounds that make them a nutritional powerhouse. Nutrient-rich arils provide a significant amount of nutrition in every bite. Just one cup (174 grams) of arils offers these macronutrients: Fat – 2 grams, an energy source and essential for nutrient absorption and hormone production Fiber – 7 grams, crucial for digestion and gut health Plant protein –3 grams, important for muscle growth and repair Natural sugars – 24 grams, providing a natural energy boost Calories – 144 calories, making it an energizing, low-calorie snack Aside from being low in fat and high in fiber, pomegranates are also packed with essential micronutrients that your body needs, including: Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) – 0.656 mg or 13 percent of the daily value (DV), vital for the production of hormones Vitamin B9 (folate) – 66.2 mg or 17 percent of the DV, crucial for red blood cell formation and healthy cell growth Vitamin C – 30 percent of the recommended daily intake (RDI), a key antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health Vitamin E – 1.044 mg or 7 percent of the DV, protecting your cells from oxidative stress Vitamin K –18.6 micrograms or 18 percent of the DV, essential for proper blood clotting and bone strength Folate (vitamin B9) – 16 percent of the RDI, important for DNA synthesis and cell growth Manganese – 0.208 mg or 9 percent of the DV, plays a role in metabolism and bone formation Potassium – 410 mg or 9 percent of the DV, supporting heart function and muscle contractions Beyond vitamins and minerals, pomegranates contain unique bioactive compounds that offer additional health benefits. These compounds are primarily concentrated in the arils and the pericarp (the thick outer peel). Here are some of the most notable and studied ones: Ellagic acid –This compound is especially concentrated in the pericarp. Ellagic acid has demonstrated anticancer potential by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. It also acts as an antioxidant – further enhancing pomegranates’ health benefits. Flavonoids – They are known to improve heart health and may even help lower the risk of certain cancers. They protect cells by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Punicalagin – It helps combat oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, protecting cells from damage and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart and cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Punicic acid – It helps reduce inflammation, which is a key driver of conditions like heart disease, metabolic diseases and Type 2 diabetes. Urolithins – These are metabolites produced in the gut when ellagitannins are digested. Urolithin A, in particular, is noteworthy for its potential to promote mitophagy – the process by which damaged mitochondria (the energy center of cells) are cleared out. This has been linked to improved muscle health, enhanced endurance and even anti-aging effects, as healthy mitochondria are crucial for energy production and overall vitality. Research suggests that urolithin A may help delay the onset of age-related diseases by promoting cellular health and longevity. Health benefits of pomegranates Modern research has found that the antioxidants in pomegranates can help protect your heart. The anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties of pomegranates may also have promising use in cancer treatment and prevention. Heart health Numerous studies have demonstrated that pomegranate juice can help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels – making it an excellent ally in the fight against heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. The cardioprotective effects of pomegranates are primarily attributed to two key compounds: punicalagin and punicic acid. Punicalagin has been shown to have three times the antioxidant activity of green tea and red wine. Punicic acid, a conjugated linoleic acid, also exhibits strong antioxidant properties and is concentrated in the arils A study involving participants with high blood pressure revealed that those who consumed pomegranate juice daily for several weeks experienced significant reductions in their blood pressure levels. This effect is likely due to the juice’s ability to relax blood vessel walls – facilitating smoother blood flow and reducing strain on the heart. Inflammation Chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues, including arthritis, diabetes and even cancer. Pomegranates are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds that can help mitigate these conditions. Pomegranates contain high levels of polyphenolic compounds, including tannins and ellagitannins. These compounds help combat inflammation throughout the body. Clinical trials have shown that individuals with arthritis who consumed pomegranate juice reported decreased joint pain and swelling. Additionally, a recent study found that daily pomegranate juice consumption reduced inflammation markers in individuals with diabetes – suggesting its role in managing inflammation-related diseases. Cancer Emerging research indicates that pomegranates may have potent anticancer properties, particularly against breast, colon and prostate cancers. Key compounds, such as ellagic acid, luteolin and punicalagin, contribute to pomegranate’s ability to inhibit cancer growth. They do so through several mechanisms: Inhibition of cell proliferation. Pomegranate compounds can limit the ability of cancer cells to multiply. Induction of apoptosis. These compounds promote programmed cell death – helping the body eliminate damaged or cancerous cells. Angiogenesis inhibition. Pomegranates may prevent the formation of new blood cells that tumors need to grow. Metastasis prevention. They help reduce the ability of cancer cells to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body. A study showed that men with prostate cancer who drank eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily experienced stabilization of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels – an important marker for prostate cancer progression. Immune function Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants and nutrients that can enhance immune function and help ward off illness. The high antioxidant content of pomegranates can help neutralize harmful free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can weaken the immune system. A study examining the effects of pomegranate peel extract on malaria-infected mice demonstrated that the extract improved immune function and reduced inflammation. Mice treated with pomegranate peel extract showed fewer injuries in their spleens – highlighting the fruit’s potential as a protective agent against infections. Brain health Pomegranates also contribute to cognitive health – making them a valuable addition to a brain-healthy diet. The antioxidants in pomegranates may help protect the brain from inflammation and oxidative damage linked to neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s. When the beneficial bacteria in the gut break down the polyphenols from pomegranates, they produce metabolites called urolithins, which have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Research has shown that urolithins can cross the blood-brain barrier and may help prevent the formation of beta-amyloid plaques – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease. Food.news has more about pomegranates and other superfoods. Sources include: Health.com ScienceDirect.com Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here

The post Powerful Health Secrets Inside Pomegranates: What Science Says About This Ancient Superfruit appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Dark Chocolate & Tea Lower Blood Pressure as Effectively as Medication

The AHA! Team — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:34:36 +0000

Cassie B. via Natural News – Decades of research involving over 5,200 adults shows flavanol-rich foods like dark chocolate and tea can lower blood pressure as effectively as medications, without harmful side effects. A major meta-analysis found flavanol consumption reduces systolic blood pressure by 3 mmHg on average — and up to 6 mmHg for those with hypertension — matching prescription drug results. Flavanols boost nitric oxide, improving blood vessel function naturally, with only 0.4% of participants reporting mild, temporary discomfort, which is far safer than pharmaceutical side effects. Experts recommend 400 to 600 mg of flavanols daily, achievable through dark chocolate (70%+ cocoa), black tea, and apples, offering a cost-effective, drug-free health boost. Beyond blood pressure, flavanols enhance cognitive function, insulin sensitivity, and heart health, proving whole foods outperform synthetic drugs for long-term wellness. The medical establishment and Big Pharma have long pushed expensive, side-effect-laden drugs as the only solution for high blood pressure, a condition affecting nearly half of American adults. But groundbreaking research spanning 80 years and involving over 5,200 adults reveals a far safer, more natural alternative: flavanol-rich foods like dark chocolate, tea, apples, and grapes. These everyday delights don’t just slightly improve cardiovascular health; they rival the blood pressure-lowering effects of prescription medications, all without the risks of Big Pharma’s chemical concoctions. The comprehensive meta-analysis, published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, examined 145 clinical trials and found that participants consuming flavanol-rich foods saw systolic blood pressure drop by an average of 3 mmHg and diastolic by 2 mmHg. For those with elevated blood pressure, the reductions were even more dramatic—up to 6 mmHg systolic and 3 mmHg diastolic, matching the impact of common hypertension drugs. The science behind nature’s medicine Flavanols, plant-based compounds abundant in cocoa and tea, work by boosting nitric oxide production, which relaxes blood vessels and improves circulation. Unlike synthetic pharmaceuticals, which often come with debilitating side effects, these natural compounds deliver benefits with near-zero risk. Only 0.4% of study participants reported mild, transient discomfort like headaches or digestive issues, which is a pretty big contrast to the dizziness, fatigue, and kidney strain linked to blood pressure medications. Findings are encouraging “The findings are encouraging for those looking for accessible ways to manage their blood pressure and support their heart health through enjoyable dietary changes,” said lead researcher Christian Heiss, a cardiovascular medicine professor at the University of Surrey. Translation: You don’t need a prescription to harness these benefits—just a trip to the grocery store. The implications are explosive. If millions of Americans swapped even a fraction of their blood pressure medications for daily dark chocolate or tea, the pharmaceutical industry would lose billions. No wonder corporate-controlled media and medical gatekeepers downplay these findings. How to harness flavanols without Big Food’s tricks Not all chocolate is created equal. Milk chocolate and alkalized cocoa (common in mass-produced brands) are stripped of flavanols. To reap the benefits, opt for minimally processed dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content or raw cocoa powder. Similarly, black tea outperforms green tea in flavanol content, delivering up to 269 mg per cup. Kristi Crowe-White, a nutrition professor at the University of Alabama, co-authored the first U.S. dietary guideline for flavanols, recommending 400-600 mg daily. this can easily achieved with: 2 cups of black tea (538 mg) 30 grams of dark chocolate (30 mg) 1 apple (12 mg) Compare that to the cost and side effects of a monthly prescription. Nature beats pharmaceuticals… again This isn’t just about blood pressure. Flavanols also enhance cognitive function, reduce insulin resistance, and improve endothelial health—benefits no single drug can claim. While the medical-industrial complex profits from keeping patients dependent, the truth is clear: real food, not lab-made chemicals, holds the key to lasting wellness. As always, the elites would rather you ignore this. But for those willing to think independently, the solution is as simple as a square of dark chocolate and a cup of tea. Your heart will thank you. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com StudyFinds.org SciTechDaily.com To read the original article, click here

The post Dark Chocolate & Tea Lower Blood Pressure as Effectively as Medication appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Understanding the difference: “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance”

The AHA! Team — Fri, 16 May 2025 05:27:31 +0000

Ramon Tomey via Natural News – “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance” by Dr. Jonathan Brostoff and Linda Gamlin Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: The Complete Guide to Their Identification and Treatment” by Dr. Jonathan Brostoff and Linda Gamlin highlights the critical differences between food allergies (e.g., Jane’s life-threatening peanut allergy) and food intolerances (e.g., Susan’s digestive and chronic health issues), emphasizing the need for tailored approaches to diagnosis and management. Through stories like Jane’s and Susan’s, the authors illustrate the impact of these conditions on quality of life, showcasing the importance of vigilance (e.g., carrying an epinephrine syringe) and natural approaches (e.g., elimination diets) for effective management. The book traces the historical evolution of the term “allergy” and critiques the narrow medical definition, advocating for broader recognition of delayed or masked food allergies and the complexities of IgE-mediated versus non-IgE reactions. Misunderstandings between food allergies and intolerances can lead to dangerous mismanagement (e.g., following incorrect protocols) or unnecessary stress, underscoring the need for clearer communication and education. The authors stress the importance of embracing diverse medical perspectives, fostering constructive dialogue and improving access to treatments, empowering individuals to take control of their health and improve global health outcomes. Identification and Treatment “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: The Complete Guide to Their Identification and Treatment” by Dr. Jonathan Brostoff and Linda Gamlin is a comprehensive resource that sheds light on the critical differences between food allergies and food intolerances. Through real-life stories and scientific insights, the book emphasizes the importance of understanding these conditions to safeguard health and improve quality of life. The book begins by illustrating the stark contrast between food allergies and intolerances through the experiences of two individuals: Jane and Susan. Jane, an atopic individual with a family history of allergies, suffered from severe allergic reactions, including life-threatening responses to peanuts. Her story highlights the need for vigilance and preparedness, as she now carries an epinephrine syringe to manage potential emergencies. In contrast Susan’s chronic health issues, such as digestive problems, migraines and joint pain, were linked to food intolerances. Through an elimination diet, she identified trigger foods like milk, wheat and tomatoes, which significantly improved her symptoms. Susan’s journey demonstrates the transformative power of natural medicine and alternative approaches to health. The book delves into the evolving definitions of food allergies and intolerances, tracing the term “allergy” back to its origins in 1906. Initially, “allergy” referred to altered reactivity to environmental factors, but over time, the medical community narrowed its definition to immune system reactions detectable through skin-prick tests. This shift excluded delayed or masked food allergies, where symptoms appear hours or days after consumption. The authors argue for a broader interpretation of “allergy” to include these cases, advocating for recognition and dialogue within mainstream medicine. The confusion over terminology has led to misunderstandings among patients. For example, those with immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergies might follow procedures meant for food intolerance patients, which can be dangerous. Conversely, individuals with food intolerances may adopt overly cautious behaviors, causing unnecessary stress. The discovery of IgE in the 1960s was a breakthrough in allergy research. However, not all delayed food reactions involve IgE – further complicating the debate over definitions. The book also highlights the struggles faced by medical professionals advocating for broader interpretations of allergies and intolerances. Some have been forced out of traditional research spheres, continuing their work in private practice. This underscores the need for constructive dialogue and recognition of diverse perspectives in medical research and practice. Ultimately, “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance” emphasizes the importance of understanding personal health needs and exploring alternatives beyond traditional medical institutions. It calls for a focus on achieving constructive results rather than engaging in semantic debates, advocating for better recognition and access to treatments for those affected by food-related health issues. By fostering understanding and embracing diverse perspectives, the book aims to improve health outcomes worldwide, empowering individuals to take control of their well-being and enjoy life without constant worry. Watch this video about the book “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: The Complete Guide to Their Identification and Treatment” by Dr. Jonathan Brostoff and Linda Gamlin.” This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com. Sources include: Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com To read the original article, click here

The post Understanding the difference: “Food Allergies and Food Intolerance” appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

Crohn’s Disease Diet and Natural Treatment Plan

The AHA! Team — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:12:57 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you been suffering from excessive diarrhea and abdominal pain on a regular basis? You might have Crohn’s disease, which means you may want to follow a Crohn’s disease diet and treatment plan. So if you have Crohn’s, there is good news. You can help treat this condition naturally with a Crohn’s disease diet, along with making other lifestyle changes. What is Crohn’s disease, exactly? This inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) causes inflammation of the lining of your digestive tract, which can lead to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss and malnutrition. It’s estimated that 2.4 million to 3.1 million Americans suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis (collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases or IBD). Crohn’s disease can seriously get in the way of everyday life with the possibility of it being both painful and debilitating. Sometimes, it even leads to life-threatening complications. If you suffer from Crohn’s, don’t lose hope! Much like the IBS diet and ulcerative colitis diet can help treat those IBD conditions, the Crohn’s disease diet can do the same with this gastrointestinal tract issue. Crohn’s disease diet guidelines Crohn’s disease treatment, the natural way, involves making a number of scientifically proven changes to your lifestyle and diet. Here are some of the top ways to start improving Crohn’s disease symptoms, starting with learning about which foods are a part of a Crohn’s disease diet. The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases states that healthcare providers recommend several types of specific diet plans for helping to control Crohn’s symptoms. The type of diet that works best depends on your ability to digest and absorb minerals, bacteria, fats, fiber and certain types of carbohydrates. People with Crohn’s react differently to these food groups depending on what type of medications they might be taking, their levels of intestinal inflammation, and the extent to which they produce or don’t produce different digestive enzymes. Here are some Crohn’s disease diet guidelines, including foods to eat and foods to avoid: 1. Avoid classic problem foods Food sensitivities vary from patient to patient but commonly include spicy and fried foods, refined foods like white breads and pastas, carbonated drinks, alcohol, and caffeine. Wheat products (gluten), cereal grains such as corn and oats, dairy products, pork, onions, and yeast also all tend to make Crohn’s symptoms worse. Research published in Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that a diet low in fat and fiber (known as a LOFFLEX diet) tends to be highly effective at treating Crohn’s, with some studies finding that up to 60 percent of patients go into remission within two years. 2. Eat a healing diet Changing and improving your diet is one of the most important, controllable and natural things you can do to improve inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease. If you suffer from Crohn’s, following a healing foods diet may help decrease inflammation (the No. 1 dietary goal with Crohn’s), alkalize the body, lower blood glucose, eliminate toxins and optimize nutrient intake. The healing foods diet consists of eating roughly equal amounts (33 percent each) of clean protein sources, healthy fats and low-glycemic carbohydrates in the forms of fruits and vegetables. 3. Limit dairy Many people with Crohn’s find that gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, abdominal pain and gas improve when they limit or eliminate dairy products. Some people are also lactose intolerant, which means they can’t digest the milk sugar (lactose) in dairy foods. While the lactose in dairy hasn’t been shown to necessarily make Crohn’s worse, the fat content in dairy can inflame the condition. 4. Be careful with high-fiber foods For some people suffering from Crohn’s, consuming high amounts of fiber, especially from raw fruits and vegetables, can be too difficult for their compromised systems to handle. Don’t skip your fruits and veggies altogether, however. Just eat them cooked whenever possible. Some Crohn’s sufferers have trouble with foods in the cabbage family (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, etc.), nuts, seeds, corn and popcorn. Keeping a food diary can help you see what works and what doesn’t for your particular case of Crohn’s. This way you don’t eliminate a healthy food (for example, broccoli) unnecessarily in your Crohn’s disease diet if your digestive system actually can handle that food well. 5. Increase prebiotic intake Consuming more prebiotics, a special form of dietary fiber that promotes the growth of healthy bacteria (probiotics) that combat bad bacteria, is a smart idea for people with Crohn’s disease. Prebiotic foods include things like asparagus, bananas, honey and oats, all of which make excellent additions to any Crohn’s disease diet. However, because prebiotics are a type of fiber, it’s important to monitor your systems and pay attention to how you feel. If particular prebiotic foods, or foods high in fiber, are causing worsened symptoms, then try subbing in other foods until you find what works. 6. Eat smaller meals If you want to avoid a Crohn’s disease flare-up, it’s best to stop overloading your body with over-sized meals. By eating smaller meals you put less stress on the gastrointestinal tract, which can help reduce some Crohn’s symptoms like bloating, gas and cramping. You can try eating smaller meals more often throughout the day, rather than two to three big meals, to help with absorption of nutrients, improving energy and controlling symptoms. 7. Drink enough fluids It’s possible to lose a high amount of fluid due to frequent diarrhea. Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated every day. Caffeine-free herbal tea, bone broth and kombucha are also good choices, since these not only provide water, but also electrolytes, amino acids and probiotics. 8. Avoid artificial sweeteners Research has shown that increased use of artificial sweeteners is correlated with higher rates of IBD, including Crohn’s. That means limiting or avoiding artificial sweeteners is a good idea on a Crohn’s disease diet, and truth is it’s a good rule in general to follow considering these foods are associated with GI issues, allergies, insulin and metabolic effects, cancer, cardiovascular issues, and more. Foods to eat vs. foods to avoid It’s important to note that the foods to eat on a Crohn’s disease diet and the foods to avoid on a Crohn’s disease diet aren’t necessarily beneficial for everyone. Some people may have issues with certain foods that generally are recommended for IBD patients, while others may not have issues with certain foods that typically can trigger flare-ups in many IBD patients. It’s a good idea to embark on an elimination diet to learn your own specific triggers so you can tailor your Crohn’s disease diet to your personal needs. Grains Eat: Rice and rice pasta Low-fiber cereals Oatmeal or cream of rice Plain crackers Potatoes Cornmeal and polenta Gluten-free bread Avoid/limit: Whole grains, like whole-wheat bread, bran, brown rice and quinoa (high in fiber, which may irritate the gut) Popcorn and granola Seeds and nuts in bread or grain products Rye and barley Whole-wheat pasta Fruits and vegetables Eat: Peeled and cooked vegetables (e.g., carrots, zucchini, squash, pumpkin and potatoes) Ripe, peeled fruits like bananas, melons and applesauce Canned fruits (without added sugar or preservatives) Peeled cucumbers Bell peppers Cantaloupe Avoid/limit: Raw vegetables and fruits with skins or seeds (e.g., broccoli, cabbage, berries, apple and citrus fruits) Cruciferous vegetables (e.g., cauliflower, Brussels sprouts) that may cause gas High-fiber fruits, like figs, prunes and pineapple Cauliflower Artichokes Cherries Plums and peaches Protein and meat Eat: Lean protein sources, like chicken, turkey, eggs and fish Smooth nut butters (e.g., almond butter or peanut butter) Tofu or well-cooked legumes (if tolerated) Avoid/limit: Fatty, fried or processed meats (e.g., bacon, sausage) Tough cuts of meat or meat with gristle Beans, lentils or legumes that cause gas and bloating Red meat Dark poultry meat Dairy Eat: Lactose-free dairy products (e.g., lactose-free milk, yogurt and cheese) Hard cheeses, like cheddar or Parmesan (lower in lactose) Fortified dairy alternatives, like almond, soy, flax, hemp, coconut or oat milk Fermented dairy (ideally low-fat), such as yogurt and kefir Avoid/limit: High-lactose dairy and full-fat dairy (e.g., whole milk, cream, soft cheeses) Flavored yogurts with added sugars Ice cream and milkshakes (high in fat and lactose) Butter and margarine Cream Herbs and spices Eat: Mild herbs, like parsley, basil or oregano Ginger and turmeric Chives and green onions Cumin Lemon peel Mustard Fresh herbs Avoid/limit: Spicy seasonings (e.g., chili powder, cayenne, black pepper, jalapeno) Strong condiments, like hot sauce or horseradish Allspice Garlic Onions (except green onions) Paprika Wasabi Drinks Drink: Water (essential for hydration) Herbal teas (e.g., chamomile, ginger) Electrolyte-replenishing drinks (low in sugar) Sparkling water Avoid/limit: Alcohol, especially beer, liquor and wine Caffeinated beverages (e.g., coffee, black tea, soda) Sugary drinks and carbonated beverages Crohn’s disease diet supplements 1. Probiotics Taking a daily, high-quality, live probiotic supplement — in addition to consuming probiotic foods — supports your body’s immune system and helps improve digestive function and mineral absorption. Probiotics have been shown to help people with Crohn’s disease reduce the incidence of diarrhea as well. Studies have found that people with Crohn’s often suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency and/or folate deficiency, and a good probiotic supplement encourages enhanced synthesis of B vitamins, calcium, vitamin K2 and other nutrients. Probiotics also support digestion of difficult substances, like gluten and lactose. 2. Slippery elm Slippery elm is an herbal remedy and demulcent (a substance that protects irritated tissues and promotes their healing). It contains mucilage, a substance that becomes a slick gel when mixed with water. This mucilage coats and soothes the mouth, throat, stomach and intestines, making it excellent at calming Crohn’s flare-ups. 3. Curcumin With anti-inflammatory properties, research has found that people with inflammatory bowel disease who took curcumin reduced their symptoms and their need for medicines. Various clinical studies have suggested that curcumin might be a potential candidate for the prevention and/or treatment of a variety of colonic diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and colonic cancer. 4. Glutamine Glutamine is an amino acid found in the body that helps the intestine function properly. Since it’s good for overall intestinal health, it can offer help for Crohn’s. It’s best to take glutamine on an empty stomach. 5. Omega-3 fatty acids Omega-3s, like those found in fish oil, can help fight inflammation and reduce the chances of recurrence of Crohn’s. Studies have been mixed, but some sufferers find omega-3s to be helpful. 6. Real multivitamin Because Crohn’s disease can interfere with your ability to absorb nutrients, it’s often a good idea to take a multivitamin and mineral supplement. You don’t want just any multivitamin, though. Make sure it’s a real food multivitamin that contains beneficial minerals, and avoid multivitamins with dangerous substances. If you find you’re deficient in a particular nutrient, you can also supplement with that specific nutrient. Some common nutritional deficiencies in Crohn’s patients include calcium, folate, B12, vitamin D and fat-soluble vitamins. Frankincense essential oil also helps improve digestive health and has been shown to be beneficial in reducing symptoms of Crohn’s disease as well as leaky gut syndrome, chronic colitis, ulcerative colitis and IBS. Add one to two drops of oil to eight ounces of water or to a tablespoon of honey for GI relief. If you’re going to ingest it orally, make sure it’s 100 percent pure oil, and don’t ingest fragrance or perfume oils. Other natural Crohn’s disease treatments How exactly stress plays a part in contributing to IBD is still up for debate, but experts agree that stress can trigger symptom flare-ups, worsen digestive health overall and increase the chance of experiencing complications. Of course, stress is a part of daily life, and not all stress is going to be within your control. However, there’s a lot you can do to reduce your reactions to stressful events. Regular exercise, getting adequate rest, taking time to relax, spending time outdoors and fostering supportive relationships can make a huge impact as natural stress relievers. Here are some other things to do in addition to following a Crohn’s disease diet...

The post Crohn’s Disease Diet and Natural Treatment Plan appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.

The Most Important Meal of the Day or a Big Fat Lie?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 09 Sep 2020 07:00:33 +0000

Al Sears, MD – It’s not natural to eat first thing in the morning. Yet we’ve been fed this lie for years being told it’s the most important meal of the day. Our ancestors didn’t wake up and pour a bowl of cereal for breakfast. They had to go out and kill their meal first. In their native environment, they performed at their peak. Their hearts and lungs were powerful, and their brains were sharp. The FDA has gone to great lengths to scare us into drastically changing the way we instinctively ate, saying their way is healthy. And, as a country we’ve complied. Today, our consumption of these foods is way down: Fat by 40% Red meat by 54% Whole milk a whopping 90% Butter by 85% Saturated fat by 50% Yet our consumption of vegetables, fruit, grains and polyunsaturated fats is up dramatically. They’ve got it all wrong and as a result we’re fatter, sicker and weaker than ever before. Today, two out of three people are overweight or obese, and diabetes has increased by a catastrophic 900%. Unfortunately, we don’t live in this native environment anymore. But we can return to the native wisdom of our ancestors including plenty of healthy fats and the right kinds of proteins in our diet, as well as eating few carbs. But just as important as what you eat is when you eat. It’s not normal for humans to eat all day long — and it’s not healthy. Our ancestors went long periods without eating. But during these hard times, they thrived. And in the process, fasting became hardwired into our DNA. Luckily, today we don’t have to go days without eating. By introducing “lean periods” of intermittent fasting into your day, you help restore your body to its native health.1,2,3,4 Doing so can… reduce insulin resistance, lower blood pressure to reduce the risk of heart disease, lower risk for cancer, boost immune system, help with weight loss and reduce inflammation — the root cause of today’s chronic diseases. Eat Like Your Ancestors I recommend you start simply having an 8-hour eating window every day, followed by a 16-hour fast. Here’s how it works: You start your day with a 10 a.m. breakfast. Then eat lunch at your regular time. Finish dinner by 6 p.m. You eat nothing else from 6 p.m. until 10 a.m. the next day. When your body gets used to the 16-hour fast, you can move up to the 24-hour mark. You can practice one-day fasts as often as every two weeks. Remember: What you eat is as important as when you eat. Keep these three things in mind: Fats make up 70% of calories. Fat is so important that if your body senses you’re starving, it does everything it can to preserve your fat stores. Healthy fats include omega-3s, MCT oil and saturated fat. Go low-carb. Carbohydrates should never make up more than 5% or 10% of your total calories. The easiest way to start is by avoiding processed foods, grains, rice, pasta legumes and starchy vegetables. Choose the right kind of protein. The protein you eat is only as healthy as the animal it comes from… I suggest eating grass-fed beef and wild-caught fish. Choose eggs from pastured chicken. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, peanuts, cashews, sunflower and pumpkin seeds also have plenty of protein. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS 1. Cheng C, et al. “Prolonged fasting reduces IGF-1/PKA to promote hematopoietic-stem-cell-based regeneration. Cell Stem Cell. 2014;14(6):810-823. 2. Malinowsk B, et al. “Intermittent fasting in cardiovascular disorders—an overview.” Nutrients. 2019;11(3):673. 3. Lui Y, et al. “SIRT3 mediates hippocampal synaptic adaptations to intermittent fasting and ameliorates deficits in APP mutant mice.” Nat Commun. 2019;10(1):1886. 4. Cabo R and Mattson M. “Effects of intermittent fasting on health, aging, and disease.” N Engl J Med.2019;381(26):2541-2551. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Al Sears, MD click here.

The post The Most Important Meal of the Day or a Big Fat Lie? appeared first on Amazing Health Advances.