omega-3 Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Protect Your Brain Health with These 4 Powerful Nutrients

The AHA! Team — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 05:23:26 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Perhaps you’ve heard people joke about having “senior moments,” those temporary lapses of memory that can leave you searching for a word — or a lost set of car keys. Perhaps you’ve even had a few yourself. Is this a sign of poor brain health? Unless they occur so frequently that they interfere with daily life, these little lapses are probably just a sign of normal age-related memory loss – and of the inevitable fact that your brain is getting smaller every year. Loss of brain mass can threaten cognition, memory, mood – even life itself Brain shrinkage, or loss of volume in the brain, is a normal part of aging. However, abnormally pronounced brain shrinkage puts you at risk for cognitive and movement disorders – and even stroke or premature death. Research shows that people with smaller brain volumes have a 96 percent increase in their risk of stroke – as well as a 58 percent increase in risk of death from all causes. Cardiovascular disease can be a major contributor to brain shrinkage. In one study, patients with coronary artery disease were found to have significantly smaller amounts of gray matter – with worse performances on cognitive tests. Diabetes, sleep disorders, stress, and obesity can all accelerate brain shrinkage as well. Lifestyle factors, such as a toxic diet, a lack of physical activity, smoking, and excessive drinking, can also speed the process. Neuroscientists say brain shrinkage can be slowed significantly with lifestyle changes. In addition to following a healthy diet and getting active, you can protect your brain by supplementing with the following four nutrients. Combine three different B-complex vitamins for brain health B-complex vitamins help to regulate homocysteine, an amino acid associated with heart disease. High levels of homocysteine cause brain shrinkage and dementia – especially when the body is deficient in B vitamins. Doctors say it’s important for aging people to maintain optimal B vitamin levels, especially those with high homocysteine levels. Three of the B-complex vitamins – vitamin B-12, vitamin B-9, and vitamin B-6 – are especially helpful in retaining brain volume. Vitamin B-12, or cobalamin, is found in fish, meat, and dairy. It is needed by the body to metabolize fatty acids, an important component of brain cells. People with B-12 deficiencies experience shrinkage at a rate that is 5 times faster than that of people with higher levels. Vitamin B-9, known as folate, occurs naturally in leafy vegetables, legumes, fruits, and organ meats such as beef liver. In one study, people with higher folate levels experienced slower rates of brain atrophy – as well as a longer period of time progressing from mild cognitive impairment to full-blown dementia. Vitamin B-6, or pyridoxine, is important in the production of neurotransmitters and the absorption of vitamin B-12. It occurs naturally in meat, fish, dairy, lentils, and brown rice. In a controlled trial published in the scientific journal PLoS One, adults over 70 with mild cognitive impairment were given 800 mcg of folate, 500 mcg of vitamin B-12, and 20 mg of vitamin B-6 daily for two years and experienced brain shrinkage at a rate of 30 percent slower than the control group. For participants with elevated homocysteine at the beginning of the study, results were even more dramatic — they slowed their brain shrinkage rate by 53 percent. Are high-fat diets bad for the brain? Healthy fats – such as the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils and nut oils – are a major part of brain cell membranes, and optimal levels can play a key role in protecting your brain. Higher levels of the omega-3 components known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) are associated with larger brain volumes. When DHA and EPA levels drop, age-related cognitive deficits worsen. Major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder are both associated with abnormal distributions in the brain of fatty acids. People with Alzheimer’s disease also show low levels of fatty acids. Omega-3s protect against over-excitation – a primary cause of age-related brain cell damage – while decreasing inflammation and protecting against damage from stress. Pomegranate juice sharpens memory and improves cognition Pomegranates are rich in anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective plant-based compounds called polyphenols. This flavorful juice can help reduce overall fat content in obese people, help regulate blood sugar, and fight inflammation – “win/win” scenarios in the fight against brain shrinkage. And researchers have found that a mere 8 ounces of pomegranate juice a day can improve cognition and memory. Compound from grapes and berries may enlarge memory center Resveratrol is a phenol in red grapes, red wine, and darkly pigmented fruits such as blueberries. Studies showed that resveratrol increased volume in the hippocampus – the part of the brain associated with memory. It also helped protect against oxidative damage that leads to brain cell death and reduced injury to brain endothelial cells with high-fat diets. In a 2014 study published in the Journal of Neuroscience, adults who were overweight but otherwise healthy were given 200 mg of resveratrol daily for 26 weeks. Researchers found that resveratrol improved connections between the hippocampus and frontal sections of the brain and served to increase memory performance. They noted resveratrol’s potential as a novel strategy to maintain brain health during aging. As baby boomers round the corner into advanced age, avoiding loss of brain volume becomes a must for optimal health. Never underestimate the power of good (organic) nutrition and healthy lifestyle changes. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to avoid and even REVERSE the signs of dementia, own the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Lifeextension.com NIH.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Healthy Omega-3 Fats May Slow Deadly Pulmonary Fibrosis, Research Suggests

The AHA! Team — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 03:47:30 +0000

University of Virginia Health System via EurekAlert! – Cheap, available drug could help reduce impact of snakebites worldwide Could healthy fats found in nuts and fish slow the progression of potentially deadly lung scarring known as pulmonary fibrosis and delay the need for lung transplants? UVA pulmonary researchers looked at the association between blood-plasma levels of omega-3 fatty acids – the heart-healthy fats found in foods such as salmon and flaxseeds – and the progression of pulmonary fibrosis, as well as how long patients could go without needing a transplant. The researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 were associated with better lung function and longer transplant-free survival. While more research is needed, the researchers say their findings warrant clinical trials to determine if interventions that raise omega-3 levels could be a useful tool to improve outcomes for patients with pulmonary fibrosis and other chronic lung diseases. “We found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood, which reflects several weeks of dietary intake, were linked to better lung function and longer survival,” said researcher John Kim, MD, a pulmonary and critical care expert at UVA Health and the University of Virginia School of Medicine. “Our findings suggest omega-3 fatty acids might be a targetable risk factor in pulmonary fibrosis.” Omega-3 and Pulmonary Fibrosis Omega-3 fatty acids have already been linked to a host of health benefits. Studies have suggested, for example, that they may lower the risk of heart disease, stroke-causing blood clots, breast cancer and other cancers, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Kim and his colleagues wanted to determine if omega-3s could play a protective role in interstitial lung disease, a group of chronic lung diseases that can lead to pulmonary fibrosis. A growing problem around the world, pulmonary fibrosis is an irreversible condition that leaves the lungs unable to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide properly. This can cause patients to become short of breath, weak, unable to exercise and a host of other symptoms. Smoking is a major risk factor. The researchers looked at anonymized data on patients with interstitial lung disease collected in the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Registry, as well as information volunteered by patients at UVA Health and the University of Chicago. In total, the scientists reviewed information on more than 300 people with interstitial lung disease. Most were men (pulmonary fibrosis is more common in men than women), and most suffered from “idiopathic” pulmonary fibrosis, one of the conditions that fall under the banner of interstitial lung disease. The researchers found that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids in the blood plasma were associated with better ability to exchange carbon dioxide and longer survival without the need for a lung transplant. This did not vary much regardless of smoking history or whether the patients had cardiovascular disease. “Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids were predictive of better clinical outcomes in pulmonary fibrosis,” Kim said. “These findings were consistent whether you had a history of cardiovascular disease, which suggests this may be specific to pulmonary fibrosis.” The doctors say additional research is needed to understand just how omega-3s could be having this protective benefit. They are calling for clinical trials and more mechanistic studies to obtain additional insights and determine if omega-3 fatty acid drugs or dietary changes could improve patient outcomes. “We need further research to determine if there are specific omega-3 fatty acids that may be beneficial and, if so, what are their underlying mechanisms,” Kim said. “Similar to other chronic diseases, we hope to determine whether nutrition related interventions can have a positive impact on pulmonary fibrosis.” Findings Published The researchers have published their findings in the scientific journal Chest. The research team consisted of Kim, Shwu-Fan Ma, Jennie Z. Ma, Yong Huang, Catherine A. Bonham, Justin M. Oldham, Ayodeji Adegunsoye, Mary E. Strek, Kevin R. Flaherty, Emma Strickland, Inemesit Udofia, Joshua J. Mooney, Shrestha Ghosh, Krishnarao Maddipati and Imre Noth. Noth has received personal fees from Boehringer Ingelheim, Genentech and Confo unrelated to the work. He is also seeking to patent transcriptomic prognostics in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. A full list of the authors’ disclosures is included in the paper. Kim’s work was supported by a Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Scholars Award and grant K23-HL-150301 from the National Institutes of Health’s National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The research was also supported in part by the National Center for Research Resources, grant S10RR027926. To keep up with the latest medical research news from UVA, subscribe to the Making of Medicine blog at http://makingofmedicine.virginia.edu. Journal CHEST Journal DOI 10.1016/j.chest.2023.09.035 To read the original article click here.

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Less Stress & Better Health for Dads (Without Adding Work!)

The AHA! Team — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 08:23:43 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – For many people, supplements are a necessary addition to a healthy diet. This Father’s Day, you are likely thinking of your dad. Your love for him. Your hope that he is healthy and happy. You may even want to encourage less stress and better health for dads. Sure, you could encourage the dads in your life to “get healthy.” You could suggest adding a ton of new activities in order to improve their lives. They could add hours of exercise, new meals and recipes, and more (these are all great!). However, if they are like most men, they are likely already doing a lot. They are busy, often stressed, and tired. But, what if you encouraged simple ideas and products that add to his health without adding work? Here are easy additions that support the best health for dads from head to toe…no extra work necessary. Less Stress and the Best Health for Dads (without Adding Work) To start, there’s one nutrition compound that can encourage the best health for dads from head to toe, all by itself. Any idea which one it is? It’s krill oil! Krill is a superior source of omega-3 fats that fights inflammation throughout the body. Like other omega-3 sources, krill oil can raise blood levels of healthy fats like DHA and EPA (1). When these increase in your blood, inflammatory markers decrease. But, what makes krill oil different is its superior absorption and natural antioxidants. First, krill oil is optimally absorbed during digestion and quickly affects both blood and brain levels of omega-3 fats (2). Next, krill oil naturally contains a healthful antioxidant called astaxanthin. Astaxanthin serves to both protect the krill oil itself (improving digestion and absorption) and encourage reduced oxidative stress in the body (3). Once absorbed, krill oil supports better health for dad in the following areas. Better Health for Dad through Krill Oil Triglycerides and Heart Inflammation: If you want to support dad’s heart health and inflammatory factors, krill oil is a great place to start. One meta-analysis looked at the effects of krill oil on circulating fats in the blood. The researchers found that krill oil supplementation was associated with significantly lowered triglyceride levels. In addition, it encouraged healthy changes in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol (4). Digestive Inflammation & Health: In studies, it’s been found that krill oil supports reduced gut inflammation by regulating a broad spectrum of inflammatory signaling pathways. In addition, krill oil promotes a healthier gut environment by fighting microbes that damage mucosa, and reduces inflammation markers (5). Weight Related Inflammation: Elevated weight negatively affects tissues and organs in a dad’s body. Inflammation is often elevated. Long-term krill oil supplementation has been shown to increase anti-inflammatory markers in the liver, support metabolism and fat breakdown, and improve tissue health and inflammation (6). Bone and Joint Inflammation: Joint pain and stiffness is a problem for many adults. There is increasing evidence that it is affected by dietary fat intake. Studies have investigated the effects of dietary fats, including dietary omega-6 to omega-3 ratios, on joint health in humans and animals. Results reveal that a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio from krill oil can significantly improve the cartilage structure and reduce losses. Further, this diet change can reduce inflammatory markers. What’s more, krill oil has specifically been shown to be more effective than plant-derived omega-3s in these studies (7). Neuroinflammation: Most neurodegenerative conditions demonstrate on-going inflammatory processes. Krill oil and marine-derived omega-3s have been studied for anti-inflammatory effects both systemically and in the brain specifically. Krill oil has been reported to encourage spatial memory and learning, attenuate memory loss, protect the brain, reduce inflammation markers, and reduce depression symptoms. For more on krill oil and brain health, click here (8). The best krill oil on the market is available right here! Keto Zone Living Krill Oil supports health in all the above ways. Get some for dad today! 4 More Steps for Less Stress & Best Health for Dad (without Adding Work) 1. Dads Need to De-Stress It can take years to learn stress management. Or, dads can begin to fight stress today using an all-natural plant based product designed by Dr. Colbert. Hemp oil, specifically nano-particle oils like those in Dr. Colbert’s Nano-Science Hemp Oil, promotes health throughout the body’s systems. It is a broad-spectrum hemp oil that is organically grown, vegan, and GMO-free. In terms of health, it have been shown to: Support healthy, stable moods (9) Promote stress relief and normalized cortisol levels Support comfortable, healthy joints (10) Encourage healthy sleep habits (11) Promote healthy skin with fewer irregularities and blemishes (12) Support healthy brain and nervous system functions (13) Encourage healthy cardiovascular functions and normalized inflammatory actions (14) No extra work for dad. Just better health and less stress in one simple step. 2. Dads Need More Sleep We know, dads are busy. But, they can combat daily stress and improve mental health with one habit: more, or adequate, sleep. Dads should aim for at least 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep each night. While adequate sleep is not always easy to get, it’s a critical health habit. The alternative, lack of sleep, can impair melatonin levels and cortisol, increase the risk of metabolic issues and weight gain, and generally deteriorate well-being. What’s more, high cortisol levels and stress can be caused by poor sleep or inadequate sleep (15). Dads don’t need more work, they need more sleep! 3. Dads Could Use a Big Drink of Water Another cause of unhealth, overwhelm and stress? Believe it or not, dehydration is linked to increased saliva and blood cortisol. Amazingly, multiple studies have found that dehydrated athletes have more circulating cortisol than hydrated ones (16). Of course, water is a great choice for hydration. Dads can take it a step further and drink cortisol-reducing black and/or green tea. Tea is a health-promoting drink that you can use as a tool to combat stress daily. In studies, tea consumers reported a higher “sense of relaxation,” lower blood platelet activation, better heart health indicators, brain health, oral health, and a fiery metabolism (17). Want even more nutrition and more flavor? Add lemons, cucumbers, or Organic Fermented Green Supremefood®. Hydration is a great healthy habit for dads! 4. Prayer for and by Dads Want full-body health: mind, soul, and body? Look no further than prayer. No matter what dads are facing, the practice of daily gratitude and prayer can change everything. In fact, practicing gratitude has been proven to support decreased cortisol and stress levels. Moreover, prayer is a wonderful gift for spiritual health. Prayer is thought to increase the secretion of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine. These compounds decrease cortisol while promoting relaxation, focus, and motivation. What’s more, you can pray for Dads! Pray for their spiritual, mental, emotional physical strength as they face each day. Prayer is powerful for the one praying, and the one prayed for. Bottom Line It’s time for better health for dads! We’ve provided easy, no-work habits that can significantly improve health from head to toe. They target stress levels, heart health, bone health, brain health, and more. Encourage the dads in your life to take care of themselves with less, not more, work! To read the original article click here.

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5-Steps to Relieve Tinnitus

The AHA! Team — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:03:23 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – My patient T.K. was a wreck. He looked like he hadn’t slept in a week. I asked him what was going on. “It’s nothing you can fix, doc,” he said. “I’ve been to three specialists, and they all told me the same thing… “I’ve got tinnitus, and I just have to live with it.” Luckily, I was able to help him. Tinnitus is an aggravating, nerve-racking, and unseen condition. The constant ringing in your ears robs you of sleep, makes you miserable as it drowns out your hearing, and, over time, makes you more prone to illness. Tinnitus also shatters your focus and concentration. Sadly, up to 25% of the U.S. population suffers from the condition.1 And that number skyrockets to up to 90% of people who are hearing-impaired. And standard medicine can’t do a darn thing to fix it. There’s no drug that cures tinnitus. But there are plenty of Big Pharma pills that can CAUSE it… The most common are analgesic drugs. These pain relievers are available by prescription and over the counter. Examples of analgesic painkillers include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories like Advil, Aleve, and Motrin; the acetaminophen in Tylenol, Excedrin, and NyQuil; and old-fashioned aspirin. But it’s not just painkillers that damage your ears. Blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, cancer drugs, and certain antibiotics can cause or worsen tinnitus. Anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants – Big Medicine’s “solution” to treat the symptoms – are known to actually increase the ringing in the ears.2 Another preventable cause of tinnitus is aspartame, the most common artificial sweetener on the market. Aspartame, which has been deemed safe by the FDA, is known as an “excitatory neurotransmitter.” It increases electrical activity in the brain, specifically in the auditory cortex. Use my 5-step protocol to relieve tinnitus For years, I’ve treated patients with a simple five-step protocol. Ditch your ear-damaging pain relievers. Taking an NSAID for the occasional aches and pain typically isn’t a problem. But if you find yourself reaching for one of these pills regularly, consider replacing it with a natural alternative… Tulsi (holy basil): This powerful adaptogen reduces inflammation. It also contains ursolic acid, which inhibits the production of the inflammatory COX-2 enzyme. I recommend taking 150 mg three times a day. Indian Frankincense — Indian Frankincense, also known as Boswellia, “significantly increases” both pain threshold and pain tolerance. Researchers even recommend it as a treatment for osteoarthritis.3 I suggest 400 mg three times a day. White Willow Bark. This plant contains salicin, the same compound found in aspirin. Studies show it relieves arthritis pain as well as lower back pain.4 I recommend 240 mg per day. Lower blood pressure with my favorite supplement. Studies show boosting CoQ10 can drop blood pressure an amazing 11 to 17 mmHg in systolic pressure and 8 to 10 mmHg in diastolic pressure.5 I recommend taking 100 mg daily until your blood pressure is controlled. At that point, you can drop to 60 mg. And make sure you take the ubiquinol form of CoQ10 – it’s the most potent. Protect your ears with omega-3. The Blue Mountain Hearing Study followed almost 3,000 people for eight years. The researchers found those with the highest intake of omega-3 had a 42% lower risk of hearing loss.6 I recommend taking 1,000 mg of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA each day. Look for a formula made from calamari oil. It has one of the highest concentrations of DHA available. Turn down the noise with ginkgo biloba. Over 40 clinical studies show ginkgo eases tinnitus. For example, one study had tinnitus patients take ginkgo or a placebo. After 12 weeks, the ginkgo group had reduced ringing.7 Take 80 mg three times a day. But make sure your ginkgo contains at least 24% “flavone glycosides” and 6% “terpene lactones.” Try this for trauma-related tinnitus. If your tinnitus was caused by exposure to loud noises, I recommend you use the brain-booster vinpocetine for relief. It’s widely used in Europe and Japan, but doctors in the Americas don’t know much about it. In one study, tinnitus disappeared in half of those who took it within one week of trauma. But even if you don’t take it right away, it can lessen the severity. Despite the time lapse since the trauma, 66% saw a significant decrease. I recommend 20 mg a day.8 To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Bhatt J, et al. “Tinnitus epidemiology: prevalence, severity, exposures and treatment patterns in the United States.” JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2016 Oct 1; 142(10): 959–965. 2. Tang Z and Trussell L. “Serotonergic modulation of sensory representation in a central multisensory circuit is pathway specific.” Cell Rep. 2017;20(8):1844-1854. 3. Yu G, et al. “Effectiveness of Boswellia and Boswellia extract for osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” BMC Complement Ther Med. 2020:20(1). 4. Chrubasik S., et al. “Treatment of low back pain exacerbations with willow bark extract: A randomized double-blind study.” Am J Med. 2000. 5. Rosenfeldt FL, et al. “Coenzyme Q10 in the treatment of hypertension: a meta-analysis of the clinical trials.” J Hum Hypertens. 2007;21(4):297-306. 6. Gopinath B, et al. “Consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and fish and risk of age-related hearing loss.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2010; 92( 2): 416-421 7. Morgenstern C. et al., “The efficacy of Ginkgo special extract EGb 761 in patients with tinnitus.” Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther. 2002; 40(5): 188-97. 8. Konopka W, et al. “Treatment results of acoustic trauma.” Otolaryngol Pol. 1997;51 Suppl 25:281-4. To read the original article click here.

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Seafood Problem: Surprising Dangers of Excessive Consumption

The AHA! Team — Fri, 17 May 2024 08:08:42 +0000

Patrick Tims via NaturalHealth365 – While seafood is well-known for its various health benefits, such as its rich omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, there are risks associated with its consumption that may not be widely recognized. Recent research published in Exposure and Health reveals a significant concern: underestimating exposure to PFAS through seafood. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals found in various consumer products – and apparently in your seafood. This discovery highlights the need for further investigation and awareness regarding the potential health risks associated with high-seafood diets. Researchers’ startling discovery of PFAS in seafood The study aimed to assess seafood consumption patterns among New Hampshire residents and the associated PFAS exposure. The researchers conducted a population-based survey involving 1,829 adults and children aged 2-11 in June 2021. The survey collected data on seafood consumption frequency, portion sizes, types, and sources. After determining the most commonly consumed seafood species, the researchers purchased these species from a seafood market in Portsmouth, NH. They then analyzed the purchased seafood for 26 different PFAS compounds to quantify their presence. The researchers calculated hazard quotients for PFAS compounds with available health guidance values to assess the potential health risk posed by seafood consumption. Key findings from the study include: Among adults, 95% reported consuming seafood within the last year, with shrimp, haddock, salmon, and canned tuna being the most frequently consumed types. Based on consumption frequencies and meal sizes, the researchers estimated daily seafood consumption rates for adults (median: 33.9 g/day) and children (median: 5.0 g/day), which were somewhat higher than national estimates for the Northeastern US. PFAS were detected in shrimp and lobster purchased from the local market, with median concentrations ranging from below the detection limit to 1.74 ng/g for shrimp and 3.30 ng/g for lobster. Hazard quotients suggested that high seafood consumers may be exposed to PFAS concentrations that potentially pose a health risk. Is your favorite seafood safe from PFAS contamination? The plight of shellfish living along the seafloor is tragic as they become the unwitting carriers of higher PFAS levels. These contaminants are then ingested by larger fish like salmon and tuna, endangering our favorite seafood choices. The presence of PFAS in our seafood not only raises alarm about its safety but also serves as a stark reminder of the broader issue of environmental contamination. It’s a call to action for stronger regulations to shield our food supply from harmful chemicals, urging us to advocate for sustainable fishing practices and rigorous monitoring of seafood safety standards to safeguard public health. Protect your health by minimizing PFAS exposure In the battle to minimize exposure to PFAS, it’s crucial to recognize that while it may be impossible to completely eliminate these chemicals from seafood and consumer products, there’s hope for change. Public health guidelines need to be revamped to reduce PFAS exposure, especially in coastal areas like New England, where industries have contaminated countless fish with these “forever chemicals.” While avoiding seafood altogether is an option, it would leave a significant gap in essential lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for human health. As a consumer, you can take steps to minimize PFAS exposure. For instance, avoid freshwater fish, especially those caught in or near urban areas where PFAS are prevalent. Additionally, opt for alternatives to nonstick cookware, as they often contain PFAS. Transitioning to ceramic pots and pans can significantly reduce PFAS exposure while still allowing for efficient cooking. While it may not be practical to create your own backyard pond stocked with untainted fish, you have the power to make informed choices that protect your health and the environment. Sources for this article include: Link.springer.com Medicalxpress.com To read the original article click here.

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Strange Link Between Fat and Brain Health

The AHA! Team — Wed, 15 May 2024 08:09:10 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – By age 60, you have a 50/50 chance of having a clinically enlarged prostate. And it only gets worse every year. When your prostate isn’t functioning properly, it’s hard to enjoy life. The color beige gets a bad rap. It’s often described as boring and blah. But when it comes to protecting your brain from the devastation of Alzheimer’s and dementia, beige is beautiful – especially when it comes to fat. Let me explain… Your body produces two types of fat – white and brown. White, or visceral fat, is the deadliest kind of fat you can have. It wraps itself around vital organs in your abdominal cavity, including your intestines, liver, and pancreas, and releases inflammatory signals that interfere with your body’s normal hormone functions. This inflammation is at the root of today’s chronic diseases, including diabetes, cancer, heart disease, stroke, breast– and dementia.1 On the other hand, brown fat is good for your body. It’s much more active than white fat and plays an important role in burning energy and decreasing the white fat deposits that build up around your organs. We now know that white fat can be transformed into tissue that acts like brown fat. It’s called beige fat. This beige fat protects your brain from dementia by activating anti-inflammatory chemicals called cytokines. In a recent study, researchers at Augusta University in Georgia removed a gene in mice that prevented white fat from turning beige. Before long, the animals only produced deadly visceral fat. Within three months, the mice became obese and developed dementia-like behavior. But when the researchers transplanted healthier fat from young, lean mice into the visceral areas of the genetically modified obese mice, beige fat began to form. Before long the mice began to show signs of improved memory and increased cognition. The researchers described beige fat as being “indispensable” in protecting the brain from dementia. As you know, I’ve recommended supplementing with high doses of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA as a way to reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s for years. DHA produces a compound called neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1). It’s one of the first defenses your body activates when brain cells are threatened.2 Studies show that NPD1 lowers inflammation in the hippocampus. That’s a seahorse-shaped area deep inside your brain. It’s called the “seat of memory.”3 In other words, it helps stop the damage that eats away at your memory function. Not surprisingly, NPD1 levels have been found to be low in the hippocampus of patients with early-stage Alzheimer’s disease. But DHA plays another important role when it comes to brain protection… New research has found that DHA plays an important role in turning white fat beige.4 In typical fashion, scientists working on turning white fat to beige want to use their research to develop new Alzheimer’s drugs or gene-editing technologies. But as history continues to prove, these so-called solutions don’t work. And they’re not needed. It’s possible to get the effect you want without Big Pharma or Big Tech’s interference. 3 Easy Ways To Rev Up Beige Fat For Brain Protection I recommend a few different ways for turning brown fat beige… Increase the amount of DHA you eat. As I said, this fatty acid is essential for brown fat activity. Foods rich in DHA include wild-caught salmon and cold-water fish like herring, anchovies, and sardines. Other good sources are grass-fed beef, pastured poultry, and eggs, avocados, and olive oil. But most people don’t get enough from their diet. I suggest supplementing with 600 mg of DHA a day. The purest sources come from krill and calamari oils Eat foods that activate your brown fat. Ginger contains a compound called gingerol that triggers beige fat to become more active. A study in the International Journal of Cardiology proved that aged garlic extract alters the ratio of brown fat to white fat. And a study from the University of Iowa found that ursolic acid boosted brown fat in mice. Ursolic acid is what gives apple peels their sheen. Exercise is key to bringing your brown-white fat into balance. Exercise boosts the activity of UCP1 proteins. Your muscles also release the hormone irisin after exercise. Irisin helps white fat mimic brown fat. In other words, it makes beige fat. Research presented to the American Diabetes Association found that exercise prompted the browning of fat in men who worked out on exercise bikes. The benefits continued to increase even after the 12-week study ended. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Björntorp P. “Metabolic difference between visceral fat and subcutaneous abdominal fat.” Diabetes Metab. 2000 Jun;26. 2. Bazan NG, et al. “Docosahexaenoic acid and its derivative neuroprotectin D1 display neuroprotective properties in the retina, brain, and central nervous system.” Nestle Nutr Inst Workshop Ser. 2013;77:121-131. 3. Orr SK, et al. “Unesterified docosahexaenoic acid is protective in neuroinflammation.” J Neurochem. 2013;127(3):378-393. 4. Lund J, Hingstrup L, LauritzenL. “Fish oil as a potential activator of brown and beige fat thermogenesis.” Adipocyte. 2018; 7(2): 88–95. To read the original article click here.

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Urgent: 25% of Pregnant Women Risk Omega-3 Deficiency

The AHA! Team — Mon, 06 May 2024 18:02:57 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Omega-3 fatty acids are vital to a healthy diet and provide many benefits, including brain and heart health. However, a recent study says pregnant women may not get enough omega-3 from their diet or supplements. Getting enough omega-3 during pregnancy can help prevent preterm birth and promote neurodevelopment and overall health of the baby. This gives babies a good, healthy start in life, but almost a quarter of the study participants reported that they did not eat any fish or take any omega-3 supplements during their pregnancy. Research reveals omega-3 deficiency common among expectant mothers A recent study, led by researchers at the Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and published on February 27, 2024, sheds light on omega-3 deficiency in pregnant women. Drawing data from the Environmental Influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) program, the study examined the dietary habits of 10,800 pregnant women regarding fish consumption and supplement intake from 12,646 expectant mothers. After carefully examining the data, the study reveals a concerning reality: many pregnant women are at significant risk of omega-3 deficiency. 25% of pregnant women lack omega-3-rich fish consumption The study’s findings showed that almost a quarter (25%) of the participants reported not consuming any fish or consuming fish less than once a month during their pregnancy. It also showed that just 16% of the women reported taking omega-3 supplements. The findings also showed that women who consumed less fish were also less likely to use omega-3 supplements. This put that group at an even greater risk of not getting sufficient omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy. Potential risks of omega-3 deficiency during pregnancy There are several risks that an omega-3 deficiency can cause in infants and fetuses. Omega-3 is vital not only for a child’s neurodevelopment after birth but also for fetal brain development. Omega-3 deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to lower behavior and developmental scores. There are also benefits for the pregnant mother. Omega-3 intake during pregnancy has also been linked to regulating inflammation, preventing heart disease, and preventing mood disorders. It can also be beneficial for many medical conditions, such as IBS, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. In short, omega-3 intake during pregnancy can benefit both mother and baby. How to make sure you get enough omega-3 While there isn’t a set daily recommended intake for omega-3, guidelines for alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 fatty acid, offer insight into suggested amounts: Pregnant women: 1.4 g Breastfeeding women: 1.3 g Children: Birth to 12 months: 0.5 g 1-3 years: 0.7 g 4-8 years: 0.9 g Boys 9-13 years: 1.2 g Girls 9-13 years: 1.0 g Teens: Boys 14-18 years: 1.6 g Girls 14-18 years: 1.1 g Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet can be achieved through supplements or by consuming foods rich in omega-3s daily, such as: Cold water, fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, herring, and sardines Nuts and seeds such as chia seeds, flaxseed, and walnuts Plant oils like, flaxseed oil Whole foods like organic milk, pasture raised eggs and raw yogurt Bottom line: prioritizing good prenatal care alongside a wholesome diet can benefit both the baby’s and the mother’s health. Fortunately, incorporating enough omega-3 into your diet is relatively straightforward. Take action now – your baby is counting on you. Sources for this article include: Cambridge.org Sciencedaily.com NIH.gov Americanpregnancy.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Krill Oil Is Superior Against the Inflammation in Your Body

AHA Publisher — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 07:11:46 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – You’ve heard of the many amazing health benefits of omega-3s. You’ve heard how it fights against inflammation and supports overall health. But, what if there was an omega-3 source that went far beyond all the others? What if it were better absorbed, more potent, and better protected through digestion? Keto Zone Living Krill Oil boasts all of these attributes. Want to learn more? Of course you do. Here’s why krill oil is the superior omega-3 source, why it’s vital to use it to reduce your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, and how its fats and antioxidants work against inflammation to support great health through the body. Why Krill Oil? Krill is a superior source of omega-3 fats. Why? Like other omega-3 sources, supplementing with krill oil will raise your blood levels of healthy fats like DHA and EPA (1). When these increase in your blood, inflammatory markers decrease. But here’s the key: what makes krill oil different is its superior absorption and natural antioxidants. First, krill oil is optimally absorbed during digestion and quickly affects both blood and brain levels of omega-3 fats (2). Next, krill oil naturally contains a healthful antioxidant called astaxanthin. Astaxanthin serves to both protect the krill oil itself (improving digestion and absorption) and encourage reduced oxidative stress in the body (3). Krill Oil, Omega-6, and Omega-3 Fats Krill oil is a great option in improving your omega-6 to omega-3 dietary ratio. Experts believe that a diet with a ratio of 2:1 omega-6s to omega-3s has historically been the healthiest. That is, you must consume 1 gram of omega-3 fats for every 2 grams of omega-6 consumed. Unfortunately, many modern chronic health conditions result from inflammation, and inflammation is associated with a high omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Realistically, a 2:1 ratio is all but impossible in modern times, and a ratio of 4:1 to 8:1 is a good goal (4). For context, most Americans’ ratio is between 12:1 to 25:1! To improve your ratio, it’s imperative to both reduce the amount of omega-6s consumed AND increase omega-3s. This typically means eating fatty fish, like salmon, halibut, or tuna each week (5) and taking a strong omega-3 supplement with DHA and EPAs. Then, you must vastly reduce processed foods and oils with concentrated omega-6 fats, like soybean oil. 5 Specific Ways Krill Oil Fights Inflammation and Improves Your Ratio Since krill oil is effective in improving blood levels of healthy fats, it stands to reason that it is effective against inflammation throughout the body. Here is a sample of studies showing its effects: Triglycerides and Heart Inflammation: If you want to support your heart health and inflammatory factors, krill oil can help. One meta-analysis looked at the effects of krill oil on circulating fats in the blood. The researchers found that krill oil supplementation was associated with significantly lowered triglyceride levels. In addition, it encouraged healthy changes in LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol (6). Digestive Inflammation & Health: In studies, it’s been found that krill oil supports reduced gut inflammation by regulating a broad spectrum of inflammatory signaling pathways. In addition, krill oil promotes a healthier gut environment by fighting microbes that damage mucosa, and reduces inflammation markers (7). Obesity Related Inflammation: Obesity negatively affects tissues and organs throughout the body. Inflammation is often elevated. Long-term krill oil supplementation has been shown to increase anti-inflammatory markers in the liver, support metabolism and fat breakdown, and improve tissue health and inflammation associated with obesity (8). Bone and Joint Inflammation: Joint pain and stiffness is a problem for many adults. There is increasing evidence that it is affected by dietary fat intake. Studies have investigated the effects of dietary fats, including dietary omega-6 to omega-3 ratios, on joint health in humans and animals. Results reveal that a better omega-3 to omega-6 ratio from krill oil can significantly improve the cartilage structure and reduce losses. Further, this diet change can reduce inflammatory markers. What’s more, krill oil has specifically been shown to be more effective than plant-derived omega-3s in these studies (9). Neuroinflammation: Most neurodegenerative conditions demonstrate on-going inflammatory processes. Krill oil and marine-derived omega-3s have been studied for anti-inflammatory effects both systemically and in the brain specifically. Krill oil has been reported to encourage spatial memory and learning, attenuate memory loss, protect the brain, reduce inflammation markers, and reduce depression symptoms. For more on krill oil and brain health, click here (10). Bottom Line It’s vital to health to reduce inflammatory markers, and one of the best ways to do so is to add krill oil as a daily supplement. Not only is it superiorly absorbed and used in the body, it supports whole body health by reducing inflammatory markers in the digestive system, brain, joints, liver and heart. Start your krill oil regimen today! To read the original article click here.

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3 Simple Ways to Improve Brain Health

AHA Publisher — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 07:00:45 +0000

Sima Ash via NaturalHealth365 – Approximately 5.4 million Americans are currently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, and this number is expected to triple by 2050. In addition, the rate of children with autism is said to be 1 in 50 throughout the United States. What is happening to our collective brain health? Think about the importance of our memories – which are a crucial part of our social lives. Interacting, carrying a conversation, and participating in everyday tasks require a good functional memory. This is why conditions such as autism and Alzheimer’s cause such concern for caregivers as they worry that their loved ones will forget to turn off a stove or other life-threatening mishaps. Fat Improves Brain Function in MANY Ways According to Psychology Today, the brain thrives on fat-rich, low-carbohydrate foods. Diets overloaded with carbs and not enough fats have been associated with dementia, ADHD, chronic headaches, and Alzheimer’s because poor quality ‘carbs’ can trigger inflammation. Fats actually promote the birth of new brain cells and communication between neurons and are needed for a healthy brain. The Mayo Clinic found that people who favor carbohydrates have an 89% increased risk for developing dementia as contrasted to those whose diets contained the most fat. Those with the highest levels of fat consumption had a 44% reduction in risk for developing dementia. Healthy fats consist of avocado, coconut oil, extra-virgin olive oil, flaxseed oil, olives, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. These healthy fats should be consumed with every meal as many nutrients in our food – beta carotene, vitamin D, vitamin E, and some forms of vitamin C – require fats for proper absorption. Don’t Forget High-Quality Nutritional Supplements for Brain Health Many studies show that omega-3 is extremely beneficial for brain health. Alzheimer’s, ADHD, and autism are all positively impacted by supplementing with omega-3. In fact, a recent study in The American Journal of Epidemiologyfound that mothers who were in the lowest 5% of omega-3 consumption had a significant increase in having offspring with an autism spectrum disorder. Researchers found that variations in intake of polyunsaturated fats within the range commonly observed among US women could affect fetal brain development and ASD risk. Aequorea Victoria – which comes from jellyfish – is demonstrating wonderful results in Alzheimer’s patients. The jellyfish protein protects and extends the lives of brain cells by lowering calcium concentrations within the neurons. A 30-day study of the supplement was given to a group of volunteers, with the majority reporting an improvement in general memory and retention of information. 84% could better remember driving directions, and family members reported return of speech and increased activity. In my practice, I have been using this product with clients with Alzheimer’s and those with autism as well – with positive results. We carry the product (Prevagen) in two strengths and generally recommend starting with the lower dosage. The Brain Needs Exercise – Get Started Today Puzzles, Sudoku, and other online programs can all help. For clients with ADHD and autism, exercising their brain with Interactive Metronome (IM) – through registered therapists – as well as adjunct home units can be of great benefit. Individuals and Fortune 500 companies have used scientific Sound to strengthen memory, enhance sleep and help with a variety of ‘brain issues.’ Both IM and Scientific Sound not only help with memory but with sensory integration as well. Frontiers in Psychology reports that trying to ‘strengthen’ the brain with video games and computer games is NOT a good approach. There is not enough evidence to back up those particular programs. About the author: Sima Ash of Healing 4 Soul is a clinical and classical homeopath and certified clinical nutritionist who utilizes a unique approach pioneered by Tinus Smits, M.D. called CEASE therapy. CEASE treatment aims to systematically detoxify the causes of illness, leading to step-by-step improvement and restoration of health in the individual. For additional information, please visit Healing4Soul.com. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov PsychologyToday.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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