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Cystic Acne Treatment Through Dietary Changes & Beyond

The AHA! Team — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:11:16 +0000

Annie Price, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Have you ever had large, red, painful breakouts? These cystic acne breakouts can affect both men and women as young as 8 or as old 50. The face is the most common and concerning area of occurrence, but other problem areas can include the chest, back, upper arms and shoulders. Cystic acne, which is way worse than just any old pimple, is actually the most severe form of acne possible. Common medical treatment for cystic acne might work, but some have very serious side effects. A natural way to fight cystic acne is to address the gut-skin connection with the use of probiotics through food, supplements and home remedies for acne. In fact, way back in 1961, a case report found that out of 300 acne patients given a probiotic, 80 percent had clinical improvement. Read on to learn how you can naturally treat your cystic acne and have clear skin once again. What Is Cystic Acne? Also called nodulocystic acne and similar to nodular acne, cystic acne is an intense form of acne that results in large, inflamed cysts and nodules that appear on the skin. Unlike other milder forms of acne, cystic acne is noticeably painful and occurs when oil and dead skin cells build up deep down in hair follicles or pores. Cystic acne is most common during puberty for young boys, but sadly, it can continue into the adult years, especially when there is a hormonal imbalance. For adult women, it’s common to to experience cystic acne around their menstrual cycles, especially on the the jawline and chin, which are the common areas for hormonally motivated breakouts. It’s more serious than hormonal acne, which occurs with both men and women when undergoing significant hormonal changes, such as aging, pregnancy or stress. In contrast, cystic acne can happen at any age because of dietary sensitivities and an overproduction of sebum. Symptoms Acne vulgaris is the medical name for common acne. Acne conglobata, or cystic acne, is a more serious and rarer form of acne that occurs mainly in young men, but it can affect people of both sexes and various ages. When you have cystic acne, your skin’s pores get clogged with oil and dead skin cells and become inflamed. It becomes cystic acne when the pore ruptures underneath the skin, which causes the inflammation to spill out into the surrounding skin tissue. This chain reaction can continue in the skin, triggering wider inflammation, spreading more acne bacteria and more breakouts. Next, your body forms a cyst around the area to stop the inflammation from spreading further. Symptoms of cystic acne include: large, red and painful breakouts on the face, chest, back, upper arms, shoulders and/or thighs nodules that appear as raised, red bumps that generally do not have whiteheads showing — they can resemble a keloid lesions that are usually felt beneath the skin before they’re seen more visible acne that produces cysts and nodules in addition to papules and pustules breakouts that are painful to the touch or even when not touched decrease in self-esteem and mood and increase in psychological distress, especially when cystic acne occurs on the face The unique appearance of a cystic acne is due to the acute damage to the oil gland causing intense inflammation and irritation, which leads to redness, swelling and soreness. Cystic acne is easy to diagnose by a dermatologist and does not require any special tests. Causes Cystic acne can be caused by or related to: Genetics Hormonal changes, including polycystic ovary syndrome High levels of humidity and sweating Pore-clogging and irritating face and body care products Some drugs and chemicals (for example, corticosteroids, lithium, phenytoin, isoniazid), which may worsen or cause eruptions that are similar to acne Cystic acne often runs in families. If one or both of your parents had severe cystic acne, then you have a greater chance of having it as well. It’s most common in teenage boys and young men. It’s believed that hormones called androgens can play a part in the development of cystic acne in teens when there is an increase in androgens. This increase leads to changes in your skin that can result in clogged pores and acne. Cystic acne doesn’t only affect men, though. For women, hormone changes that trigger cystic acne can be brought on by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and menopause. Conventional Treatment Cystic acne is the most severe form of acne, but over-the-counter remedies aren’t always enough to treat this form of acne. If any, benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibacterial treatment that is most often used to treat acne and may help less severe cystic acne. Instead, many people opt to see a dermatologist in order to get diagnosed and then prescribed medications to treat cystic acne. The most effective conventional medicine for cystic acne is isotretinoin (Accutane), which actually is derived from vitamin A. While most people experience a reduction in acne lesion counts, adverse events are common, especially overly dry skin, mood issues and decreased appetite. If the cystic acne covers a lot of skin, a dermatologist may want to prescribe oral antibiotics. While these can work against the inflammation and bacteria, they don’t address the excess oil or dead skin cells. Because of antibiotic resistance, they should only be used in the short term, if at all. Topical retinoids also may be used and are related to vitamin A, but in general they’re not sufficient to address cystic acne. They can also make your skin red and peel — plus make it very vulnerable to sunburn. Another prescription medication is spironolactone (Aldactone), a diuretic that usually is used for edema as well as high blood pressure. It’s also used for acne but mostly just women who have acne around their jawline. Its side effects can be serious and should not be taken if planning to become pregnant. Natural Remedies 1. Avoid these foods Conventional Dairy: Even if you’re not lactose intolerant, conventional dairy products can be hard on the digestive system. Many people see an improvement in their acne when they cut down or eliminate dairy products like milk, cheese and ice cream. If you want to check if dairy is a culprit, try eliminating it from your diet for two weeks to see if your cystic acne improves. If it does, then you know that dairy is not agreeing with you. You can choose to remain dairy-free, or you can slowly reintroduce dairy back into your diet. Choosing better-quality dairy can be helpful as well. Sugar: Sugar and other high-glycemic foods (like breads and pasta) can make inflammation in your body worse. The more inflammation you have, the worse your cystic acne will be. Try natural sweeteners instead. Consuming excess amounts of sugar and grain products can also feed yeast and candida in the body, increasing the presence of acne on the skin. Caffeine and chocolate: Many experts like to say that there is no link between caffeine and chocolate consumption and breakouts. However, there is no doubt that caffeine consumption has a direct impact on your hormonal balance. In particular, caffeine overdose can raise the stress hormone known as cortisol, which can cause cortisol face. By reducing or eliminating various sources of caffeine, like coffee, tea and chocolate, you can help keep your hormones in better balance and clear up your cystic acne. Low-fiber, highly processed foods: Consuming foods that are low in fiber and highly processed has a direct negative effect on your gut health, which negatively impacts skin health. When you consume processed meat products like cold cuts, breakfast cereals and microwave meals, an unhealthy shift occurs in your inner microbial colonies. This sets off inflammation throughout your entire body, which can bring on a cystic acne flare-up or make any current acne even worse. Fried and fast foods: These foods are also highly processed and low in fiber. Additionally, they contain a number of ingredients that cause inflammation, including hydrogenated oils, sodium, chemicals, flavorings and sugar. 2. Eat these foods Probiotic-rich foods: The healthier your gut is, the better your balance of good versus bad bacteria. When you consume probiotic-rich foods like kefir and cultured vegetables, the probiotics line your gut and create a healthy, sealed barrier that prevents inflammation that can trigger acne. One Korean study of 56 acne patients found that drinking a Lactobacillus-fermented dairy beverage effectively reduced their total acne lesion count and decreased oil production over 12 weeks. High-zinc foods: People with acne tend to be low in zinc so you definitely want to increase your dietary intake of zinc by consuming things like grass-fed beef, chickpeas, pumpkin seeds and cashews to prevent a zinc deficiency. Zinc also supports a healthy digestive tract, which improves skin health. Vitamin A-rich foods: Foods high in vitamin A, like kale, spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots, fight infection and speed healing, two things you definitely need when you’re trying to get rid of cystic acne. Fiber-rich foods: Consuming high-fiber foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and oatmeal encourages colon cleansing as well as the growth of good bacteria in the gut, both of which can help eliminate cystic acne. High-quality protein foods: Grass-fed beef, organic chicken, wild-caught fish and free-range eggs are high in protein and nutrients and help balance blood sugar, a key component in the fight against cystic acne. Liver-supportive foods: Since hormones are processed in the liver, eating liver-supportive foods can help clear up acne. Eat more cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower as well as leafy greens and high-fiber fruits, such as pears and apple, for improved liver function. 3. Consider taking these supplements Probiotics (10,000 IU to 50,000 IU daily, typically two to three capsules twice daily) — Taking probiotics can boost your immunity and help your internal fight against cystic acne. You can also use probiotic skin care products, which can provide a protective external shield. Studies show that probiotics may help prevent skin eruptions. Omega-3 fatty acids (1,000 milligrams of fish oil/cod liver oil daily or 3,000 milligrams of flaxseed or chia seed oil) — Omega-3 helps reduce inflammation and support hormone balance. One scientific study specifically found that after 10 weeks of omega-3 fatty acid or GLA supplementation, inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions decreased significantly. Zinc (25–30 milligrams twice daily) — Research suggests that people with acne have lower blood and skin levels of zinc. Taking zinc by mouth may help reduce acne. Vitex (160 milligrams of Vitex/chasteberry) — This herbal remedy is specifically recommended for hormonally induced acne. Guggul or guggulsterone (25 milligrams twice daily) — Guggul is made from the sap of a tree native to India. For individuals suffering from cystic acne, a controlled clinical trial found that guggul supplements outperformed 500 milligrams of tetracycline. It’s also been shown to be effective for nodulocystic acne, a similar form of acne that usually targets the face, chest and back. 4. Consider essential oils Essential oils like tea tree and lavender can help fight cystic acne. The best way to use essential oils for acne is to apply two to three drops topically to the area of concern. Tea tree and lavender essential oils are safe for neat (direct) application, but they can also be combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil if you have sensitive skin. A scientific review of the efficacy, tolerability and potential modes of action in regard to the treatment of acne with tea tree oil states that tea tree products reduce lesion numbers in patients with acne, have tolerability levels that are similar to other topical treatments, and have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that are associated with the treatment of acne. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight when treating acne with essential oils. The UV rays can make your skin more sensitive and may lead to skin irritations or redness. If using any of these essential oils causes skin irritation, discontinue use of that oil. Skin Care Tips 1. No popping Whatever you...

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This Modern Fad Is Making You Sick

The AHA! Team — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 08:26:47 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – The government declared war on fat almost 50 years ago. And as a result, we got slower, sicker, and fatter. In fact, the results of this big fat lie “led to some pretty disastrous consequences…that caused Americans to get fatter.” Those are the words of one of the most famous nutritionists in the world. Dr. Walter Willett, Chair of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, was one of the first mainstream physicians to admit that the campaign to eliminate fat in the diet was a big mistake. But lately, he’s shifted gears. And today, he’s declared war on meat. I couldn’t disagree more… We come from hunter-gatherers who evolved over millennia to thrive on meat. We have canine fangs like dogs and wolves. These teeth are meant to rip and tear flesh from animals. Being a vegetarian is a modern fad. It was the brainchild of Reverend Sylvester Graham. He believed that all of America’s moral failings could be traced back to an “unholy diet.” So he created a strict meat-free meal plan that would “cure” the country of its “immoral urger.” He preached a gospel of fruits, vegetables, and whole-wheat crackers that would eventually bear his name. But Graham and his followers got it wrong. Big time. They didn’t understand that humans are born meat eaters. And that being vegetarian takes a real toll on your health. When vegetarians give up meat, they force themselves to get the bulk of their calories from wheat or other grain products. So they wind up eating more bread, pasta, cereals, and other processed foods. Being vegetarian takes a real toll on your health In other words, they eat a lot of junk. Sound familiar? It’s the same thing that happened with the war on fat. For more than 20 years, I’ve seen firsthand the health problems of vegetarians in my practice. I’ve found that vegetarians: Have low energy and feel frail Get sick more often and age faster Have poor digestion and weaker bones Can’t produce growth hormones, testosterone, and thyroid hormone Have low sperm counts and more fertility problems And despite what Dr. Walter Willett declares, vegetarians don’t live longer… An important study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition looked at data from two studies of more than 60,000 people in the U.K. It found no difference in mortality rates between vegetarians and meat eaters.1 And despite what you hear from the mainstream media, studies show vegetarian diets don’t lower the risk of heart disease2 or cancer.3 But a plant-only vegan diet does cause genetic mutations that increase the risks for both heart disease and cancer.4 The latest research shows that eating a plant-based diet also makes you depressed,5 increases your risk of broken bones,6 and decreases phospholipids.7 Phospholipids are vital for a healthy brain. You see when you don’t eat meat, it’s impossible to get many of the essential nutrients you need every day. If you were – or still are – eating a plant-based diet, you’re missing out on a number of key nutrients. Here’s how to get a few of them back: Supplement with B12. This vitamin, so vital to humans, is only found in meat. While some vegetarians claim that B12 can be found in algae, tempeh (a soy product sometimes used as a meat substitute), or even brewer’s yeast, these are false assumptions. I recommend at least 100 mcg per day. But I advise many of my patients to take as much as 2,000 mcg, especially if they are vegetarians. Replenish your zinc. Most vegetarians have a zinc deficiency. This is a problem. You can’t have a well-functioning immune system without this antioxidant. It also reduces your risk of metabolic syndrome, age-related macular degeneration, osteoporosis, and memory loss. I recommend taking 30 mg a day. CoQ10: CoQ10 is only found in animal products. You’ll find high concentrations of this heart- and brain-critical nutrient in organ meats. But you’ll also get it from the meat itself. CoQ10 supplies your cells with ATP, the energy required by every cell in your body for metabolism, energy production, and life itself. I recommend at least 50 mg of ubiquinol CoQ10 every day. This form is eight times more absorbable than conventional CoQ10. To Your Good Health, Al Sears, MD, CNS References: 1. Appleby P, et al. “Mortality in vegetarians and comparable nonvegetarians in the United Kingdom.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2016 Jan;103(1):218-30. 2. Kaiser J, et al. “A systematic review of the association between vegan diets and risk of cardiovascular disease.” J Nutr. 2021 Jun 1;151(6):1539-1552. 3. “Does being a vegetarian lower your risk of cancer?” https://www.wcrf.org. 2020. Accessed on May 24, 2023. 4. Caspermeyer J. “Are we what we eat? Evidence of a vegetarian diet permanently shaping the human genome to change individual risk of cancer and heart disease.” Mol Biol Evol. 2016 Jul;33(7):1887-8. 5. Kohl I, et al. “Association between meatless diet and depressive episodes: A cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from the longitudinal study of adult health.” J Affect Disord. 2023 Jan 1;320:48-56. 6. Webster J, et al. “Risk of hip fracture in meat-eaters, pescatarians, and vegetarians: results from the UK Women’s Cohort Study .” BMC Med. 2022 Aug 11;20(1):275. 7. Menzel J, et al. “Dietary and plasma phospholipid profiles in vegans and omnivores—results from the RBVD study.” Nutrients. 2022 Jul; 14(14):2900. To read the original article click here.

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Zinc Shows Promise as Emerging Treatment for Yeast Infections

The AHA! Team — Mon, 27 May 2024 08:06:09 +0000

University of Exeter via Newswise – New research could one day pave the way for the treatment of vaginal yeast infections, by shedding new light on how microbes in the body absorb zinc. Around three quarters of women develop vaginal yeast infections at least once in their lifetime, and approximately 140 million women globally suffer from recurrent infections. Recurrent yeast infections can have an enormous impact of quality of life. Existing anti-fungal treatments are not always effective and resistance against these treatments is developing. Around three quarters of women develop vaginal yeast infections at least once in their lifetime Thrush is caused by a yeast called Candida. There are a number of species of Candida, but the one that causes most yeast infections is Candida albicans. Now, new research, funded by Wellcome and published in Science Translational Medicine and led by the University of Exeter’s MRC Centre for Medical Mycology has found that the trace mineral zinc could play a surprising role. Just like us, Candida albicans needs zinc in its diet and this yeast produces a molecule (Pra1) which tries to scavenge zinc as a food source. Now, researchers have found that this molecule triggers an inflammatory response, which they believe is responsible for many cases of thrush. Wellcome Trust Senior Fellow Dr Duncan Wilson, of the University of Exeter’s MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, led the research, and said: “Recurring thrush can be deeply distressing and problematic, and we urgently need new treatments. Our new finding on zinc is very exciting, because it suggests that simple provision of zinc could block the production of the inflammatory Pra1 molecule, but we’re not in the position to make treatment recommendations at this stage. We need larger scale trials to confirm the effect. Please don’t apply any products that are not designed for the genital area, as zinc can be toxic at high concentrations, and it could be extremely unsafe.” Zinc could block the production of the inflammatory Pra1 molecule In lab experiments, the team found that manipulating genes so that Candida albicans does not produce Pra1 prevented inflammation. They went on to find that applying relatively low levels of zinc in mice blocked Pra1 production and prevented inflammation. This is important because it is inflammation that causes the burning, itching symptoms of thrush. The research team also recruited women who had been experiencing vaginal infections at least once every three months. The women applied a vaginal moisturizing cream which contains a small amount of zinc nightly for two weeks, and then twice a week. Of six women who completed the study and had vulvovaginal candidiasis (thrush), five of them did not experience reinfection over the three-month study. Dr Wilson said: “These findings are very encouraging, although the number of participants is small. We are now carrying out a larger clinical trial to confirm that zinc treatments are effective. In the longer term, we hope this could be a promising strategy for a condition could evolve resistance to treatment. “We’d been studying this Pra1 molecule for more than ten years to understand its role in zinc scavenging – this research shows the fundamental importance of basic research of this nature, which can help shed light on how our bodies work and sometimes provide surprising routes to new treatments.” The paper is entitled ‘Zinc prevents vaginal candidiasis by inhibiting expression of an inflammatory fungal protein’, and is published in Science Translational Medicine. The research is supported by the Exeter NIHR Biomedical Research Centre. To read the original article click here.

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Fruit-Veggie Dietary Supplement Could Keep Covid at Bay

AHA Publisher — Mon, 18 Apr 2022 07:43:51 +0000

Diana Bletter via Israel21c – Will dietary supplements become the new weapon against Covid-19? The answer may be yes, according to scientists from Tel Aviv University. In Pharmaceuticals, professors Ehud Gazit, Eran Bacharach and Daniel Segal reported on their lab experiment using a dietary supplement containing zinc, copper and flavonoids, the polyphenolic compounds found in fruits and vegetables like cashews, pumpkin, peas and beets. The scientists, including PhD students Topaz Kreiser and Dor Zaguri and other researchers, found that the supplement could enhance immunity to viral infections like Covid-19 as well as the flu and other winter illnesses. Viruses like Covid-19 are rapidly changing, the scientists said. They decided to develop active vaccines made of safe dietary supplements that would reduce the viral load in the body and cut down contagion. Segal said there was a “50-95% decrease in the genomic replication of various groups of RNA viruses” using the treatment. Gazit, who also heads TAU’s Blavatnik Center for Drug Discovery, said that scientists “have known for years that food supplements containing zinc can enhance immunity to severe, viral, and chronic infections.” The researchers added copper to prevent an ionic imbalance and improve the treatment’s effectiveness. The researchers conducted the experiment in vitro (in the lab) and hope to do clinical trials in humans. Because these supplements are safe and natural and can be bought over the counter, the scientists decided to announce the findings to the public before doing clinical trials. “We believe that the product can serve as a supplementary treatment to enhance the effect of existing antiviral vaccines and medications,” Bacharah said. To read the original article click here.

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How Diet, Supplements and Lifestyle Changes Can Help Battle COVID

AHA Publisher — Mon, 07 Feb 2022 08:00:30 +0000

Dr. Tomislav Meštrović, MD, Ph.D. via News-Medical – A recent editorial in the journal Nutrients emphasizes how efficacious non-pharmacological interventions in conjunction with the promotion of healthy lifestyle and dietary patterns may improve overall health status and reduce the risk of infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), as well as the potential adverse effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 still affects our daily lives in 2022 and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Although advancements in science have focused on developing vaccines, producing/repurposing therapeutics, and promoting non-pharmacological interventions to lower disease burden, a fifth pandemic wave is now imminent in various parts of the world. An undervalued mitigation strategy in preventing manifold adverse effects of COVID-19 is to actively promote healthy lifestyle patterns together with non-pharmacological interventions. This is becoming increasingly important in areas disadvantaged by their lack of access to vaccines. Furthermore, lifestyle and dietary changes may offer additional protection and improve overall health. It is well known that inadequate nutritional status can be a serious risk factor for severe respiratory diseases and comorbidities (e.g., increased blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes), increasing the risk for severe disease and fatal outcomes in COVID-19 patients. This is why MDPI’s journal Nutrients developed a special issue that aimed for research articles investigating nutritional status, lifestyle/dietary alterations, as well as the use of supplements concerning SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 outcomes. In this editorial, Dr. Ronan Lordan from the Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, and Dr. William B. Grant from the Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center in San Francisco present these non-pharmacological advances in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. The Importance of Vitamin D and Zinc Two studies were published in this special issue that supported the idea that vitamin D deficiency is pervasive among patients hospitalized for COVID-19 – one from the United Arab Emirates and the other one from Russia. Both studies emphasize that sufficient vitamin D levels may be clinically relevant, acting as a predictor of COVID-19 patient outcomes. Another study from Saudi Arabia was a clinical trial that involved 69 SARS-CoV-2-positive patients that were hospitalized with mild to moderate COVID-19 in 2020 and showed that higher supplemental doses of vitamin D achieve much more favorable clinical benefits. Moreover, patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 had substantially lower serum zinc concentrations than non-infected individuals; nonetheless, the difference between zinc concentrations for those with mild and those with moderate disease severity was not significant. Also, the use of high-dose zinc salts found significant improvements after only one day of treatment Dietary Supplements and Nutraceuticals In this Special Issue, two natural products known as Glycyrrhiza glabra extract and hesperidin may have a role in inhibiting viral entry via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), which are two pivotal cellular proteins that SARS-CoV-2 uses to enter mammalian cells. Furthermore, the author group from Poland has also reported that vitamin D was actually the most popular supplement during the second wave of the pandemic that started in September 2020; more specifically, vitamin D was taken by 23%, 38%, and 33% of study respondents during the first, second and third wave of the pandemic, respectively. Other researchers that have contributed to this Special Issue had a much broader research interest in the potential nutritional requirements and supply chain issues that arose during the pandemic, highlighting programs in the United States distributing healthy meals and snacks. Unintended Consequences of COVID-19 Response Another salient research area tackled in this Special Issue was the unintended consequences of the COVID-19 response. One notable example is the study that showed weight gain among school teachers in Long Island (New York) who switched from in-person to online forms of teaching. Emotional eating during the pandemic is also an issue, as demonstrated in Norway with a notable increase in high-sugar foods and beverage intake. The authors have also suggested the need for nutritional and psychosocial education and interventions during regular pregnancy monitoring. In conclusion, additional broad-ranging research endeavors will be needed to fully grasp how the majority of the adverse effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 could be prevented through diet, supplements and lifestyle changes. Journal reference: Lordan, R. & Grant, W.B. (2021). Preventing the Adverse Effects of SARS-CoV-2 Infection and COVID-19 through Diet, Supplements, and Lifestyle. Nutrients. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14010115, https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/1/115 To read the original article click here.

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THIS Fruit Is One of the World’s Best Sources of Vitamin C

AHA Publisher — Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:00:31 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Vitamin C is known as a powerful antioxidant and immune system supporter. While it’s found naturally in many foods, vitamin C is also a wonderful nutritional supplement – known to help people improve their health. In fact, one 2014 study cited by the National Institutes of Health found that giving vitamin C greatly improved the health of internal organs damaged by poor lifestyle habits. But it’s not your morning glass of orange juice that will be the “best way” to get your daily recommended amount of vitamin C (ascorbic acid). In fact, this unassuming tropical berry is gaining ground recently as an antioxidant powerhouse. This Amazonian Berry Is One of the World’s Greatest Sources of Vitamin C Camu camu (Myrciaria dulia) is a tart berry growing in the Amazonian rainforest. It’s considered one of the world’s most potent sources of vitamin C, but also contains other nutrients including sodium, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and copper. By the way, zinc is great for supporting a healthy immune system. According to a 2015 systematic review from The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, decades of research, including human clinical trials, suggest that camu camu has a “well-established” antioxidant capacity that may be important for fighting inflammation and supporting a balanced immune system. The antioxidant effect of camu camu is so powerful that one small 2008 study, published in The American Journal of Cardiology, found that drinking 70 mL of camu camu juice per day (containing more than 1,000 mg of vitamin C) for just one week was enough to significantly lower markers of inflammation and oxidative stress – even in people who smoked. Limited amounts of research also suggest camu camu may improve blood sugar levels and promote healthy blood pressure. You should be able to find camu camu in powder, pill, capsule, or juice form at a natural foods store. Many health supplements will also state on their label whether their vitamin C was derived from camu camu, and you can also consider calling the company and asking directly. Your Body Can’t Make Vitamin C, So It Has to Come From Your Diet – Here’s How Much You Need to Consume Every Day According to the National Institute of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements, the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin C is 90 mg and 75 mg per day for adult men and women, respectively (and up to 85 mg and 120 mg per day for pregnant and lactating women). But, in reality, most integrative healthcare providers suggest a much higher intake of vitamin C – especially as we all live in such a toxic world. If you don’t have easy access to camu camu, or supplements containing vitamin C derived from camu camu, you can always be sure to incorporate vitamin C rich foods, including oranges, guavas, kiwis, papayas, bell peppers, broccoli, kale, snow peas, and Brussel sprouts. For context, a 100 gram serving of camu camu contains 3,000 mg of vitamin C. Meanwhile, a 100 gram serving of broccoli contains an impressive 89 mg of vitamin C, whereas a 100 gram serving of oranges contains just 53 mg. Ultimately, your need for vitamin C – and just about every other antioxidant – will depend on your health status. The more you’re exposed to toxins, the more you’ll need to improve your diet and reduce the exposure to unwanted substances. What could be more important than that? Sources for this article include: Healthline.com NIH.gov COVID19treatmenguidlines.nih.gov Fooducate.com Myfooddata.com ODS.nih.gov NIH.gov MayoClinic.org NIH.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Want to Alleviate Allergy Symptoms Immediately? 3 Effective Strategies

AHA Publisher — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 07:00:06 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – If you suffer from allergies, it can be difficult to find relief. They seemingly affect many people year-round. From pollen to dust to molds, it’s tough to get away from allergens and alleviate allergy symptoms. However, there are steps you can take to improve the situation. Here are why allergens often affect us, and the 3 best natural ways to alleviate allergy symptoms. Allergies: Numbers and Methods Allergies are common. In fact, according to the CDC, more than 50 million Americans now suffer from allergies each year (1). At their core, allergic reactions are inflammatory responses and may occur most often in those who have greater inflammatory reactions in general. In fact, studies show that those with seasonal allergic reactions and asthmatic allergies have higher underlying inflammation even when they are not showing symptoms (2). These results have led experts to believe that reducing the underlying inflammation may improve asthmatic and allergic conditions. Here are 3 strategies to help you alleviate allergic reactions! 3 Natural Strategies to Alleviate Symptoms 1. SUPPORT YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM WITH THE RIGHT NUTRIENTS First and foremost, you can support your body with the right nutrients when fighting seasonal allergy symptoms. Four to consider are: OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS Start by consuming nutrients that reduce inflammatory reactions. Omega-3s from fish oil are the best source available. You can take a potent omega-3 supplement daily or consume fatty fish regularly. Of course, if you are “aspirin-sensitive” or on blood thinners, always talk to your doctor before starting or increasing fish oil. PROBIOTICS While it may seem odd that your gut has anything to do with sneezing and post-nasal drip, probiotics have been shown to help those with seasonal allergies. In fact, one study of 173 people who suffer from seasonal allergies found that taking a daily probiotic with lactobacillus strains significantly improved their “quality of life” scores from baseline to peak pollen compared to a placebo group (3). It is hypothesized that probiotics help to increase the percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) thereby improving allergen tolerance. ZINC, VITAMIN C, AND VITAMIN D AND MORE There are also vitamins and minerals that bolster immune response. Dr. Colbert’s Enhanced Multivitamin and Organic Divine® Health Green Supremefood® contain balanced amounts of important nutrients for the immune system and immune response. These include organic greens, probiotics, zinc, vitamin C, vitamin D, and more. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR While not exactly a “nutrient,” apple cider vinegar works against allergies in 2 ways: First, scientists have found that the bacteria in raw vinegar can actually improve immune factors and protect from an allergic reaction (4). Next, apple cider vinegar is a natural decongestant, and it causes your sinuses to drain when you drink it. While the relief is temporary, it is effective and reduces the risk of clogged sinuses becoming infected. How should you take it? ALWAYS dilute apple cider vinegar. Taken straight, it can damage your esophagus. Mix 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 4 oz. water, 1/2 tsp ginger, ½ tsp cinnamon, and stevia to taste. Take 2-3 times per day during allergy season. 2. OPTIMIZE YOUR DIET TO REDUCE INFLAMMATORY RESPONSES In addition to consuming anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting nutrients, it’s vital to vastly reduce pro-inflammatory foods and fats in your diet. How? ULTRA-PROCESSED FOODS First, identify and remove ultra-processed foods. Ultra-processed foods are the commercial, processed foods that contain a lot of processed fats and sugars. These foods and the carbohydrates and fats in them promote inflammation, weight gain, abnormal blood glucose, elevated blood pressure, and more in the body. If you want a healthy body and immune system, start by reducing any ultra-processed foods in your diet, if needed. PROCESSED OMEGA-6 FATTY ACIDS Second, remove as many potent, processed sources of omega-6 fats as possible. Processed omega-6s act as an antagonist to omega-3s in the body, and work to increase inflammatory factors and reactions. How can you remove them? The best way is to look at every single item you buy with an ingredient label, and avoid all products with soybean oil. Then, take it a step further and avoid all those with high omega-6s. The full list and steps can be found here. 3. CLEAN UP YOUR ENVIRONMENT TO REDUCE ALLERGENS Whether you’re inside or out, allergens come from your environment. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your allergen contact while still enjoying the health benefits of the great outdoors. LEAVE YOUR SHOES OUTSIDE Shoes have a way of trapping pollen on them and then depositing it all over your floor surfaces if worn inside. Instead, remove them at the door and leave them outside. KEEP YOUR FLOORS AND COUNTERS AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE Dust mites cause many allergy symptoms. You can decrease dust mites in your home. Dust regularly, vacuum, and use a HEPA filter. Wash floors and surfaces regularly. These tasks can help reduce dust mites and thereby seasonal allergies and symptoms. KEEP WINDOWS AND DOORS CLOSED Especially if you live in an area with high pollen counts, keep windows and doors closed. Pollen blows around most in the Spring, and typically in the early hours of the day. Keep windows and doors closed to avoid pollens blowing inside. Instead, use an air conditioner if you feel too warm. Make sure to change the old filters as they will most likely be full of dust, pollen, and mold. Installing an air purifier with a HEPA filter will also help to remove allergens from the interiors. TAKE SHOWERS OFTEN AND CHANGE CLOTHES AFTER BEING OUTSIDE Clothes and hair are pollen magnets, so take them off and rinse as soon as possible! Instead of dragging the pollen inside and sitting it in, shower and change. REMOVE POLLEN BEFORE YOU LIE DOWN Consider showering before bed, changing pillowcases daily, and sheets regularly. If you go to bed with pollen in your hair, it can stay on your pillowcase for days. Then, you’re essentially sleeping in pollen! Keep these soft surfaces as clear of pollen as possible to get a good night sleep and wake up feeling better rather than worse. KEEP YOUR NOSE CLEAN The environment of your nose is also an important consideration. If you can get the allergens out that are trapped inside your nose, you can alleviate allergies. To do so, try all-natural nasal sprays and/or a neti-pot flush. At most stores and pharmacies, you can find nasal sprays with simple ingredients like baking soda, salt, and purified water. These sprays flush out your nasal passages. When used a few times per day they can ease allergy symptoms, especially if you begin using it proactively before strong symptoms begin. BOTTOM LINE Allergies are a reality for many, many adults. However, you can use our strategies to gain relief immediately. Alleviate allergy symptoms with healthy nutrients, a “clean” anti-inflammatory diet, and an improved personal environment. Then, let us know how these tips helped you! To read the original article click here.

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Top Nutrients to Slash Your Risk of Bone Fracture

AHA Publisher — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 07:00:11 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Bone loss is widely considered to be just another part of the aging process. In fact, many conventionally-trained physicians believe that it is perfectly “understandable” for a person to experience a higher risk of osteoporosis later in life. In addition, Western medicine is quite accepting of the fractures that result from these conditions. In fact, researchers estimate that 50% of U.S. women and 20% of men will have an osteoporotic fracture after 49 years of age. But, make no mistake about it, bone fractures due to osteoporosis can be avoided. FACT: Bone Loss is NOT a Natural Part of the Aging Process; Vital Nutrients Can Help You Maintain Strong Bones The truth is osteoporosis is not a normal part of aging. Having said that, bone loss can occur due to age, but that is typically due to vitamin and nutrient deficiencies. Just keep in mind, by getting all of the vital nutrients you need each day, you can have healthy, strong bones as you age, even well into your “golden years.” For the basic facts, let’s start here: Many of the “bone-building nutrients” needed can be obtained by eating a well-rounded, organic diet loaded with organic dark (mineral rich) leaky vegetables and some fruit. The key here is to get your food from the best sources possible. And, yes, local farmers markets can be a great place to start. Of course, depending on your own health status – in many cases – nutritional supplements may be needed to correct any deficiencies that exist. THESE Critical Nutrients Can Help You Build Strong Bones and Prevent Bone Fractures, Studies Suggest Vitamin D3 and calcium As children, it is drilled into us, “drink your milk so you can have strong bones!” But, for the most part, we have to thank the milk industry for that marketing hype. The truth is: there are no “magic bullets” when it comes to keeping bones healthy and strong. It really comes down to a combination of nutrients like vitamin D3 – mainly generated from adequate sun exposure – and calcium from dark leafy greens like dandelion greens. In addition, there are several vitamins and minerals that the body needs in order to form strong bones. If you are concerned about your bone health, talk to an integrative physician or health coach (with experience in nutrition) about nutrients like boron, magnesium and zinc … that improve the absorption of vitamin D3. In terms of healthy food choices for vitamin D and calcium, raw milk, organic broccoli, kale, collard greens, sesame seeds, pasture-raised eggs, wild mushrooms and grass-fed beef liver can help. Don’t forget your vitamin K A study published in 2019 found that a deficiency in vitamin K and other nutrient deficiencies can lead to increased fracture rates. This is because vitamin K plays a significant role in strengthening bones (known as mineralization) and bone formation. There are two types of vitamin K, called K1 and K2. While deficiencies in both vitamins do seem to negatively affect bone loss, vitamin K2 is believed to be more integral to bone protection and strengthening. Good sources of vitamin K include, organic spinach, Brussels sprouts, wild-caught fish, cabbage, turnip greens, grass-fed liver. Are you getting enough vitamin B12 Many people are deficient in this essential vitamin and don’t even know it! A Tufts University study found a link between low vitamin B12 and osteoporosis in both women and men. B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is absorbed in the lining of the stomach. As people age, especially as they reach their 80s, they can experience changes in the stomach lining that inhibits their body’s ability to absorb the nutrient efficiently or effectively. Simply put, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that B12 is important to bone health and that a deficiency can increase the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Some of the best sources for B12 are: wild-caught trout, salmon, spirulina and, of course (if necessary), a high quality, B12 supplement. The value of vitamin C Vitamin C is tissue building and strengthens immunity, but it is also a key component of collagen formation in the body which is the foundation of bone mineralization. Several studies have found a link between greater bone density and higher levels of vitamin C in the body. Again, as a water-soluble vitamin, it gets absorbed in the intestines. Unfortunately, too many people are vitamin C deficient – which only increases the risk of health issues. For a good food source of vitamin C, try eating more organic bell pepper, blueberries, strawberries, cauliflower, broccoli, lemons, oranges and kale. Plus, as a general rule, a good quality vitamin C supplement can’t hurt, as well. Just check with your integrative physician before making any changes to your diet. Magnesium deserves our attention Magnesium benefits the body in many ways, from regulating blood pressure and blood sugar levels to making protein and increasing bone mineral density. It works very closely with calcium to improve bone health and strengthen bones. When taking magnesium, look for chelated forms of magnesium that are easier for the body to absorb. The body does not absorb magnesium oxide as easily as it does chelated forms of the mineral. It is also a good idea to divide magnesium, taking them two or three times during the day. Food sources include, organic nuts, brown rice, seeds, whole grains, legumes and dark leafy green vegetables. Boron – in small amounts – can be powerful Boron is another important nutrient when it comes to bone formation and growth. It is believed to increase bone building and decrease bone loss by aiding the body in more efficient calcium utilization. In fact, studies have shown that a deficiency in boron leads to decreased bone strength. Science is still exploring the link between bone strength and boron, but it is believed that increasing your boron intake can help improve your bone health. Food sources include, organic apples, nuts, avocados, broccoli, legumes, tomatoes, bananas and prune juice. Bottom line: Focusing on better bone health now can help prevent falls and fractures later. It doesn’t matter if you are 18 or 80; making adjustments to your diet and taking the right bone-building supplements will positively affect your body. And, remember, it’s never too late to build stronger bones. Sources for this article include: LifeExtension.com AmericanBoneHealth.org AmericanBoneHealth.org JamaNetwork.com ResearchGate.net TuftsJournal.Tufts.edu NIH.gov Academic.OUP.com NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Does Zinc Inhibit or Promote Growth of Kidney Stones? Well, Both

AHA Publisher — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 07:00:59 +0000

University of Houston via EurekAlert – A funny thing happened on the way to discovering how zinc impacts kidney stones – two different theories emerged, each contradicting the other. One: Zinc stops the growth of the calcium oxalate crystals that make up the stones; and two: It alters the surfaces of crystals which encourages further growth. Now it can be told – both theories are correct as reported in the America Chemical Society journal Crystal Growth & Design by Jeffrey Rimer, Abraham E. Dukler Professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at the University of Houston, who conducted the first study to offer some resolution to the differing hypotheses. “What we see with zinc is something we haven’t seen before. It does slow down calcium oxalate crystal growth and at the same time it changes the surface of the crystals, causing defects in the form of intergrowths. These abnormalities create centers for new crystals to nucleate and grow,” reports Rimer, who refers to the effect as a double-edged sword. The formation of kidney stones is a pathological condition that has increased in frequency among patients, leading to an increased amount of suffering and steep rise in medical costs. Though calcium oxalate crystals are found everywhere, the most naturally abundant form of these crystals are calcium oxalate monohydrates (COM), the kind found in human kidney stone disease. Along with COM, kidney stones are composed of various hard deposits of inorganic salts and organic compounds (e.g., proteins) crystallizing or sticking together in concentrated urine. They can be severely painful to pass through the urinary tract. In this study, Rimer and his team used a combination of in vitro experiments and computational modeling to decode the effects of zinc on COM crystal growth. “The techniques we’re using in our lab to investigate these systems enable us to get a better picture and to deconstruct these complex systems as a means of identifying new ways to prevent kidney stone formation,” said Rimer. “These are enabling tools that allow us to understand at an almost molecular level how various species in urine can regulate crystal growth.” Rimer’s findings on the dual role of zinc on COM was confirmed by atomic force microscopy measurements showing a unique ability of zinc ions to alter the termination of crystal surfaces. The team compared the impact of zinc on COM, with similar ions like magnesium. “We wondered what would happen if we used alternative ions commonly found in urine, such as magnesium, and the answer was nothing. It had little to no effect, whereas zinc had a major effect. This is an excellent demonstration of how subtle differences in the nature of various species impacts their interaction with crystal surfaces,” said Rimer. To read the original article click here.

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