Thursday, February 25, 2021

Vitamin B3 Overview and Uses

Vitamin B3, or niacin, is a water soluble vitamin known to be crucial in food processing, helping in turning food into usable energy [5]. Being water soluble, any excess amount present can be easily taken out through urination, thereby reducing any chances of niacin build up in the body. Niacin helps in converting nutrients into energy, form and repair DNA, and produce antioxidant effects as well [4].

There are two common forms of niacin, nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. Looking closer, it is the amino acid tryptophan that is responsible for converting into nicotinamide [4]. 

Niacin has been found to reduce LDL (“bad cholesterol”) while increasing HDL (“good cholesterol”). Additionally, it has shown to produce improvements in coronary artery disease as well [2]. 

Recommended Intakes

Based on the recommended intakes set by the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) and presented by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), this table shows the Adequate Intakes for niacin (vitamin B3). Adequate Intake (AI) is the intake that is needed to ensure nutritional adequacy. Specifically for niacin, it is measured in milligrams of niacin equivalents (NE) [5]. 

  • One NE = 1mg of niacin or 60mg of tryptophan [5].

 

Sources of Vitamin B3

Food sources [1]:

  • Red meat
  • Chicken
  • Fish
  • Peanuts 
  • Whear
  • Barley
  • Coffee

Supplements: 

Supplements are available in multivitamin products, in the form of nicotinic acid / nicotinamide [4]. When the amount of supplement is more than the RDA, it can cause unpleasant side effects such as skin flushing [5]. 

**nicotinamide does not produce skin flushing due to its chemical structure**

Prescription:

According to Mayo Clinic, niacin prescription could potentially benefit those with high cholesterol, who are unable to control it through diet, statin (group of drugs that reduce fat), and exercise [3].

B3 Deficiency and Safety

Safety [3]:

When taken in safe, appropriate amounts (within RDA range) or as per prescribed, niacin is safe. But high doses (2,000 to 6,000 mg of niacin a day) can lead to:

  • Skin flushing
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Itching
  • Diarrhea
  • Liver damage

Deficiency [5]: 

  • Severe deficiency leads to pellagra (pigmented rash or brown discoloration on exposed skin).
  • Risk of deficiency is high among:
    • Malnourished individuals 
    • Individuals with Hartnup disease -- rare genetic disorder that involves the disruption of tryptophan absorption in the small intestine, and increases loss of it in the urine
      • This leads to less available tryptophan available to be converted to niacin.
    • Those with carcinoid syndrome -- caused by slow growing tumors in the GI tract. Tryptophan is oxidized here and as a result, is not metabolized to niacin. 
    • Those who have low iron, vitamin B6, and vitamin B2 have trouble converting tryptophan to niacin.

Takeaway

Knowing the importance of vitamin B3 in food processing, it is crucial for us to consume and make sure it is in our diet. While normal consumption of the foods and supplements above yields positive results, excessive consumption can lead to flushing. It is really hard to reach that extreme threshold and most individuals can meet their requirements with simple diet changes!

 

Reference 

  1. Hill LJ, Williams AC. Meat Intake and the Dose of Vitamin B3 – Nicotinamide: Cause of the Causes of Disease Transitions, Health Divides, and Health Futures? International Journal of Tryptophan Research. 2017;10:117864691770466. 
  2. McKenney J. New Perspectives on the Use of Niacin in the Treatment of Lipid Disorders. Archives of Internal Medicine. 2004;164(7):697.
  3. Niacin [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2020 [cited 2021Feb12]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-niacin/art-20364984
  4. Niacin – Vitamin B3 [Internet]. The Nutrition Source. 2020 [cited 2021Feb12]. Available from: https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/niacin-vitamin-b3/
  5. Office of Dietary Supplements - Niacin [Internet]. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; [cited 2021Feb12]. Available from: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Niacin-HealthProfessional/

 



source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/effects-of-sleep-deprivation

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Our Endocannabinoid System and the Importance of Sleep

There are plenty of tricks to improve sleep. You can try acupuncture, cryotherapy, prolotherapy, vibration therapy, compression, magnets, kinesio tape, foam rolling, electrostimulation, photobiomodulation, PEMF treatment, inversion, enzymes, magnesium, and much more.   

Focusing on sleep is integral because it does more for you than any biohack, supplement, or recovery program can. Getting your "8 hours" is extremely important to looking and feeling your finest. But not all of us are adept at it. It's still important you do it.

In this article, we'll review some of the side effects of lack of sleep, how the endocannabinoid system (ECS) is important, and how to sustain your ECS with the right food, herbs, and supplements – even with CBD.

Effects of Sleep Deprivation

In this age of social media interaction and technology growth, combined with maintaining work, exercise, and friendships, sleep is frequently on the back burner. And a big part of lack of sleep is due to anxiety and stress. To combat these problems, it's integral to maintain balance in your work and personal life.

Some issues that come with a lack of sleep are:  

  •   Minimized growth hormone and increased cortisol secretion that cause stress and anxiety
  •   Impaired mental function
  •   Weight gain and diabetes
  •   Increased pro-inflammatory cytokines, which harm immune systems, muscle mass recuperation, and body repair
  •   Imbalances in autonomic nerves
  •   Altered discomfort perception

You also experience decreased sports performance, affecting your: 

  •   Sub-maximal strength
  •   Running performance
  •   Muscle glycogen concentration
  •   Time of fatigue
  •   Isokinetic torque
  •   Minute ventilation
  •   Distances covered
  •   Sprint times

...and much more. 

Avoiding sleep impedes your recuperation for peak efficiency and affects your overall health and wellness. And sleep deprivation can lead to some dangerous issues. Some of the largest man-made disasters, such as Chernobyl and the Exxon Valdez incident, were due to sleep deprivation. Rest is crucial. 

Exactly How Your Endocannabinoid System Works 

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) covers your brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. The ECS provides the body with a state of homeostasis and equilibrium.

It works as a chemical-signaling system that senses disruptions or specific input from your surroundings and launches substances within your body known as endocannabinoids.

Visualize hiking one day and a black bear crosses your path. Your body reaches fight-or-flight mode: your temperature rapidly increases, adrenaline rises, blood shoots to your limbs, pupils dilate, and every one of your energy stores shift away from digestion. You are now in full defense mode.

When the bear leaves, your body recognizes the risk has left and starts to release endocannabinoids, which then bind to receptors in virtually every cell in your body. It launches an excitatory or relaxation effect on different body organs and systems. Your ECS slowly decreases your heart rate, calms your nervous system, and restores a feeling of safety and security.

If you practice healthy eating and reduce your levels of stress and anxiety, your ECS does what it is designed to do with relative ease. When not, ECS shortages can cause everything from migraine headaches to fibromyalgia, IBS, impaired vision, and medical, biochemical, and pathophysiological problems. Your ECS balances stress, aids in recognizing discomfort, and influences everything from appetite to bone development to fertility and memory - and your ability to sleep. 

Supporting Your Endocannabinoid System

There are natural ways to maintain a healthy ECS, like certain foods, supplements, and avoiding ECS-disrupting substances. Proper omega 6 to omega 3 ratios, delicious chocolate, and natural herbs all support ECS function.

The Omega 6 and 3 proportion is out of whack in most Americans. The right ratio should be 1:1, but Western dets average 40:1! The right ratio enhances the activity of the ECS. With a high omega-6 intake, more omega-3 fatty acids are required to stabilize the ratio and ensure correct ECS function. Animal sources of omega-3s, such as fatty fish, grass-fed meats, and also pastured eggs are your best choices; however, hemp seeds and and hemp oil are good, as well as flax seeds or flax oil, chia seeds, walnuts, and fish oil supplements.

In addition, foods like chocolate contain substances like cannabinoids, with darker delicious chocolates or raw cacao having the highest concentrations of it. These substances inside cacao can boost endocannabinoids by preventing their breakdown. Tea Plant, or camelia sinensis, also contains a substance that stops the malfunctioning of endocannabinoids. Black pepper, lemon balm, hops, cloves, oregano, and cinnamon all have the terpene beta-caryophyllene, which are agonists of the cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2). Turmeric extract also elevates endocannabinoid degrees.

But staying away from certain foods is more important. Pesticides are understood to be ECS disruptors. Phthalates, used in beauty products and plastics, are recognized hormonal agent disruptors that might open the door to cancers, reproductive toxicity, sperm damage, altered genital development in kids, the inability to conceive, testicular dysgenesis, obesity, endocrine system issues, and fibroids. Alcohol, when utilized in moderate to high amounts, can additionally harm your ECS. 

To sum up: Aim for a 1:1 omega-6 to 3 ratio; take in mainly animal sources of omega-3s; add black pepper, lemon balm, hops, cloves, oregano, cinnamon, and turmeric extract to your diet whenever feasible; treat yourself to some dark delicious chocolate or cacao; stay clear of chemicals and phthalates, and reduce alcohol to support your ECS.

Nature's Endocannabinoid System-Supporting Molecule

Nothing deals with your ECS quite like cannabidiol (CBD) oil. It boosts sleep, lowers stress, anxiety, fear, improves your state of mind, and lessens pain and swelling, so you can relax and recover better.

The first pathway is via the optimization of the ECS using indirect excitement of the cannabinoid receptors. The second path is via serotonergic pathways, as studies show CBD to be an agonist of the serotonin receptor.

ECS consists of 2 receptors: CB1 and also CB2. Remarkably, CBD itself does not directly bind to either of these receptors; rather, it permits one of the main endocannabinoids (anandamide) to stay at cannabinoid receptor sites for longer periods of time, thus increasing its results on the body. CBD does this by hindering the manufacturing of the FAAH enzyme, which is accountable for the breakdown of anandamide.

Research has shown that after intaking CBD for 14 days, anti-anxiety effects were seen with people experiencing chronic stress. When it comes to the serotonergic pathway, CBD was also found to serve as an agonist at the 5-HT1a receptor (serotonin), binding like serotonin, relieving pain-induced anxiety.

So, What Does This Have to Do with Sleep?

Stress and anxiety are major causes of insomnia and other sleep-related problems. Why CBD boosts rest is not fully recognized, but its ability to decrease anxiousness and anxiety and mediate fear reception is largely due to its ability in mediating serotonin receptors and indirect activity via cannabinoid receptors by means of prolonged binding and activity of endocannabinoid. CBD has been revealed to dramatically lower anxiety along with cognitive problems and speech discomfort.

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/our-endocannabinoid-system-and-the-importance-of-sleep

Defy Aging – Nutrients and BioHacks for Younger Looking Skin

We all want to look good as we age. Thankfully, there are some powerful ways to do it. The right nutrients we eat and lifestyle choices we make lead to healthy and balanced skin. But if it is not planned and managed correctly, it can create new issues. Strenuous exercise, too much time outdoors without skin protection, and the wrong low-fat, high-carb nourishment fads of the past can do lasting damage. Even Ironman triathlons can be a problem.    

Thankfully, you can reverse skin damage and safeguard yourself from future skin issues. This article will review biohacks that prevent wrinkly, dull, or drooping skin due to any daily behaviors. 

What Contributes To Skin Damage And Aging?

Aging of the skin takes place intrinsically (inside) and also extrinsically (on the surface). The common hard-charging, high-achiever is likely experiencing both kinds of skin aging because of inflammation and free radicals.

Intrinsic aging refers to the structural changes of the skin that take place as a natural repercussion of aging. Genetics plays a part here, but behavior is important. External aging is brought on by things like sunlight exposure, consuming excessive sugar or processed foods, stress and anxiety, lack of rest, exposure to artificial and toxic substances, low healthy protein, fat and veggie intake, alcohol misuse, smoking, lack of drinking water, and excessive exercise. Extrinsic factors likewise speed up intrinsic aging. 

The low-grade inflammation that come from intrinsic and extrinsic variables create free radicals that draw electrons from other molecules, altering chemical structures. If you are on an anti-inflammatory diet, limit your extreme exercise. Make sure to get adequate sleep for healing, too.

The Sun Isn't Always Our Friend

The sunlight releases UVA and UVB radiation that lands on your skin. The UVB radiation is absorbed in the outer layer of skin and changed into vitamin D in the human body. Sufficient vitamin D is very important for bone health and wellness, state of mind, immune function, and fertility. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to cancer cells as well as an entire host of other chronic diseases, including musculoskeletal disorders, high blood pressure, diabetic issues, autoimmune illness and cardiovascular issues.

UVB radiation is also responsible for most sunburns, while UVA radiation can pass through much deeper right into the skin. Excessive UV radiation harms the DNA in your skin cells. If you get too much UV radiation exposure, it can lead to cell death, and when DNA damage occurs, and cell death does not, skin cancer cells can result.

Direct and ongoing sun exposure also triggers dark circles or spots on the skin that affect your youthful look – a process called hyperpigmentation. The dark spots, called melanin, protect skin from UV rays.

UV radiation also harms collagen and the elastic areas found within your skin, bring about accelerated indicators of skin aging. Collagen is the major architectural healthy protein that holds skin and connective tissue together. It helps the skin resume its shape after being stretched. UV exposure harms your collagen, making it a lot more cross-linked and stiff, which deteriorates the skin's structure. Sun damage accelerates the loss of collagen by as much as 20%. 

Extreme UV exposure influences elastin too, triggering an abnormal build-up of elastin and metalloproteinase – an enzyme that assists sun-damaged skin recovery by producing and reforming collagen. Too much metalloproteinase reduces their performance and even breaks down collagen.

Dangerous Chemicals 

Some common chemicals you are exposed to everyday are:

  1. UV Blockers

In your attempt to safeguard yourself from sun damage, you need to be careful choosing your sunscreen. Several chemical UV blockers (octocrylene, octylmethoxycinnamate, or benzophenone-3) are unsteady when revealed to UV radiation, and they can even trigger higher manufacturing of responsive oxygen species than comes naturally in vulnerable skin when revealed to the exact same amount of UV.  Oxybenzone, or benzophenone-3, is also an endocrine disruptor that has been linked to early puberty, low sperm, and infertility in both males and females. PBSA causes DNA damage in human skin cells when revealed to UV rays.

  1. Parabens

Parabens are chemicals utilized in makeup, face wash, body laundry, cream, antiperspirant and shampoo to stop the development of microorganisms, yeast, and mold. Parabens are understood endocrine disruptors that stimulate estrogen. They have been found in breast cancer cells and can disrupt male reproduction.

  1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)/ Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

SLS is a detergent and surfactant. It separates molecules to develop a lather and improve a skin product's interaction with your body or hair. SLS is a recognized skin irritant that remains in tissue several days after application. Although it has not been directly proven to cause cancer in cells, it is produced from well-known health hazards - trace amounts which might be inside the product. And when combined with various other chemicals like triethanolamine, they can become carcinogens called nitrosamines. And if that wasn't enough, the cleaning agents remove skin oils needed for defense and to prevent dryness. 

  1. Fragrances

In the fragrance market, regulation is spotty at best, and certain compounds often aren't provided. Several fragrances tested are understood to trigger allergic reactions. Phthalates are often included in the scent recipe and not shown on labels, even though they are known endocrine disruptors. 

Nutrition And Skin Health

Glucose, believe it or not, is a chief fuel source for our skin cells, and that sugar helps our outer skin later by supplying the carb foundations for proteins and lipids that make up the skin barrier. Problems in glucose metabolism and insulin signaling impact skin structure and might trigger blisters, sores, and slower wound recovery. Simply put, your glucose shouldn't be too high or too low.

Amino acids from healthy proteins and supplements are necessary for the production of all skin structure and the skin barriers. Specific amino acids and also amino acid blends have different roles in collagen manufacturing and specific supplementation might enhance collagen production (which normally lowers as you age) to combat wrinkling and sagging skin.

Lipids (fatty acids) are required for making your outer layer of skin, skin cell distinction, and skin cell membranes, as well as for absorbing lipid-soluble nutrients. Essential fatty acid deficiency results in flaky skin and raised transepidermal water loss. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential to the function and look of your skin and also maintain your hydration while giving you plumper and more youthful look. 

The importance of nutrition has been researched, and the results vary. For example, a study on skin aging in Japanese women discovered that greater intake of complete fat was substantially connected with increased skin elasticity. A high consumption of hydrogenated fat with green and yellow vegetables was associated with less serious crow's feet wrinkling. Another study on skin wrinkling in elderly people living in sun-exposed places revealed a high intake of vegetables, legumes, and olive oil helped, whereas a high intake of meat, milk and also butter seemed to do harm. A research on skin-aging of middle-aged American women discovered higher intakes of linoleic acid and vitamin C and also lower intakes of fats and carbs to be linked with better skin. And with those struggling with acne, a low glycemic diet plan seems to aid against acne with decreased swelling and smaller sebaceous glands.

Most information on eating and its relation to skin health involves deficiencies, and for a good reason. Proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals all have a part in skin strength and performance. For constant dieters and active people who don't get enough nutrients, their health can be negatively effected.  

The Ideal Nutrients For Radiant Skin

Vitamin A affects nearly every element of skin function. It encourages cell turnover, thickens and promotes the dermis, hinders sweat gland activity, and subdues androgen development, making it reliable for both acne and anti-aging. Dry, harsh skin is a typical indicator of Vitamin A shortage. It is an active ingredient in numerous topical skin treatment products; however, you can also get it from cod liver oil, liver, pastured lotion, and even eggs.

Omega-3 fats are strong anti-inflammatories, and intaking the right ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fats in your diet is vital for skin health. High omega-3 consumption reduces sunlight damages, and their anti-inflammatory properties aid with skin problems like acne, psoriasis, and rosacea. Clinical testing has shown improvements in skin conditions and also eases scaling skin. Coldwater fatty fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, and tuna are your most sufficient sources for omega-3; however, you can additionally take fish oil supplements.

Zinc plays a critical role in protein synthesis, healthy cell division, injury healing, and immune support. Studies show that zinc minimizes acne as efficiently as commonly recommended prescription antibiotics. It also enhances wound healing, secures against UV damage, and has anti-inflammatory effects. It is found in organ meat, red meat, shellfish, pumpkin seeds, or supplements.

Vitamin C is an essential antioxidant that helps protect against and treat UV photodamage. High nutritional consumption is related to improved skin appearance, reduced wrinkling, and reduced cases of dry skin. It regulates collagen manufacturing and also can increase collagen-healthy protein synthesis for skin repair. Vitamin C supplementation, whether taken orally or topically, can battle oxidative damage to proteins from both UV damage and also inherent aging. Vitamin C sources consist of bell peppers, citrus fruits, dark leafy greens, and broccoli.

Selenium is a vital trace mineral and a frequent deficiency. It is necessary to the antioxidant function of glutathione that shields against free radicals and cell damage. There is proof showing its importance in reducing skin cancer. Additionally, Selenium promotes Vitamin E absorption, increasing the antioxidant feature of both nutrients, and provides cell membrane layer protection. Selenium is in Brazil nuts, seafood, body organ meat, and chicken. 

Astaxanthin works as an all-natural sunblock in marine plants and is a red pigment carotenoid in wild-caught salmon and krill. It also comes as a supplement. It is a powerful anti-oxidant that is a lot more powerful than Vitamin E, CoQ10, Vitamin C, and green tea. It guards your cells from harmful oxidation that causes aging. Studies have discovered that astaxanthin prevents UVA-induced DNA damage in skin cells and prevents skin drooping from UVA radiation direct exposure. And 6 mg daily oral supplements plus 2 ml topical application reduces skin wrinkles and age spots, while improving flexibility, appearance, and moisture.

To benefit from all of these tactics easily, take a multivitamin and fish oil each day, combined with a nutrient-dense, plant-rich diet plan.

Biohacks For More Beautiful Skin

In addition to a diet regimen, there are ways to enhance your skin's appearance without relying upon unpleasant chemicals, botox, or surgical procedures.

Facial Massage 

Facial massages not only lower anxiety and reduce negative states of mind, they also prevent wrinkles by releasing muscle stress that causes forehead furrow lines between your eyebrows and along your lips. It also encourages sinus drainage and also stimulates lymphatic vessels.

To massage your face, put a dime-sized portion of a face oil on your hand and distribute it amongst your hands and fingers. Beginning at your temple, push your fingers between your brows and move up and outside along your temple. Repeat this process numerous times utilizing mild, yet firm stress. Then move to your cheeks, gliding fingers from the center of your face out toward your ears. Begin just below your eyes and repeat numerous times as you work your way down your cheeks to your jawline. End with your neck, rubbing with upright higher strokes from your collarbones to your jawline.

Facial Exercises

There are around fifty muscles in your face. Exercising them regularly provides the same firming and toning advantages as exercising your body muscular tissues, helping to tighten up drooping skin and reducing wrinkles.

Temple and also Eye Exercises

These exercises enhance the muscle mass around your forehead and eyes to smooth creases, producing a more wide-awake appearance.

Put your index fingers a centimeter over your brows, above the center of your eyes, and use gentle pressure. Shut your eyes while trying to raise your eyebrows up against your fingers. Repeat 10 times.

Then make peace indications utilizing your index and middle finger and put your middle finger where your brows start over your nose and your index finger at the end of your brows. Delicately press your fingers up and down while bending your facial muscles to raise and lower your eyebrows, both at the same time. Do three sets of 10.

With your eyelids kicked back, close your eyelids and raise your brows with your forefinger. Keep your eyes shut while lifting, stretching and reinforcing your eyelids. Hold for ten seconds, and repeat the process ten times. 

Mouth Exercises:

These routines help strengthen muscles around your mouth and jaw while giving you better control of facial movements.

Smile big and push your fingers on your cheeks to hold them there. Close your lips halfway, holding for ten seconds. Then close your lips completely and hold for 10 seconds, using your fingers to push against each activity.

Hold your mouth, teeth, and lips firmly closed, and separate your teeth as much as you can while maintaining lips shut. Then move your lower jaw forward, holding for five seconds, and return them to the normal position. Repeat this five times. 

Dry Skin Brushing

Dry skin brushing naturally exfoliates the skin to get rid of dead skin cells and clear oil, dirt, and residue from pores that add to dull, dry, overloaded skin. The gentle pressure and the movement of the bristles are also thought to stimulate lymph circulation to carefully cleanse the body. Dry skin brushing users also say it reduces cellulite by enhancing blood circulation to the skin.

Start at your feet and brush upwards with long, smooth strokes, constantly moving towards the center of your body. Do this along with your arms, and do the same on your belly and back.

Infrared Light

Red and infrared light therapy encourages healthier development of new skin cells, shields against skin damage, assists with acne issues, boosts collagen, smooths wrinkles, boosts tone, discolors scars and stretch marks, and helps in the fight against psoriasis and herpes.

GHK-Cu Peptide

GHK-Cu is a natural tri-peptide in our bodies that reduces significantly with age. It has a ton of biological features like collagen synthesis and breakdown, drawing in immune cells to wounds, healing injuries, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory impacts, and blood vessel development. When used in beauty products, it improves skin flexibility, suppleness, and wrinkles while lowering skin inflammation and reducing photo damage and hyperpigmentation.

Cryotherapy

Simply put, this therapy consists of a cold shower.  Theoretically, cryotherapy works by restricting blood vessels and pressing out excess fluid that can contribute to discomfort and lead to inflammation. When the session is over, your body redistributes blood, oxygen and nutrients, which may speed up cellular regrowth and improve recovery. This may reduce swelling, clear up skin problems, and increase collagen production to decrease the look of wrinkles and cellulite. 

The Components Of A Daily Skin Care Routine 

Here are some helpful tricks to maximize your daily regimen. This list includes recommendations for both women and men.

 Cleanse

Ladies: cleaning any makeup off before exercise. This ensures no clogging materials permeate deep into your skin and cause irritation or outbreaks as you sweat. A good cleanse removes irritating sweat, bacteria, and environmental contaminants that may have accumulated on your skin's surface, while decreasing skin irritability and outbreaks. 

Men: Cleansing is something you can do after shaving in the morning or night after a shower. Obviously, it's important to try to find items that don't have harmful chemicals, such as those including parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate or phthalates and also fragrances.

Nourish

Since your skin is frequently exposed to the world around you, providing it with nutrients and anti-oxidants will certainly aid in your battle with aging. You can choose from a number of herbal extracts and serums that will do the trick.

Moisturize 

After cleaning, replenish any oils or moisturizing benefits on your face. Antioxidant-rich seed oils soothe and condition the skin without blocking pores and triggering outbreaks.

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/defy-aging-nutrients-and-biohacks-for-younger-looking-skin

Tuesday, February 16, 2021

How Improving Your Leaky Gut Can Improve Overall Health

Keeping a healthy microbial balance in your gut is crucial for your whole body function. These microbes help maintain homeostasis and disable harmful substances. Their presence on the intestinal lining allows for appropriate absorption of nutrients and the removal of toxins [2]. But when exposed to, for example, chronic stress and constipation, toxin exposure, poor diet, or antibiotic consumption, a lot of the microbes are killed. As a result, the gut is exposed to the “bad” bacteria  that essentially cuts holes in the intestines, leading to this so-called leaky gut syndrome. Now, the food particles consumed along with potential toxins, leak into the bloodstream. When your immune system encounters these displaced substances, it attacks and this causes inflammation and irritation [1]. 


Causes behind leaky gut

While there are numerous causes to this syndrome, some of the possible reasons could be due to: 

  • Genetic predisposition [2]
  • Treatments [4]
    • Chemotherapy medications
    • Chronic kidney disease
    • Radiotherapy 
  • Bowel lining can be irritated by other factors as well 
    • Poor diet 
      • Modern diet: the standard American diet in particular, which is high in sugar, saturated fats, and low in fiber, may also initiate irritation [2]. 
    • Overconsumption of antibiotics [4]

Consequences of a leaky guy

  • Certain conditions that are associated 
    • Inflammatory bowel diseases, for example, Crohn’s disease [4]
    • Intestinal infection, such as salmonella [4]
    • Celiac disease
      • Triggered by the ingestion of gluten (in wheat, barley, rye) and causes bowel inflammation [3]
    • Type 1 diabetes [3]
    • Asthma 
      • While the mechanism is not fully understood, wheezing can be triggered by food consumption in some asthmatic children, and perhaps the increased intestinal permeability in asthmatics could influence susceptibility to allergens in the environment [3].

Treatment

While leaky gut isn’t an official medical diagnosis, there are ways in which improved digestive health can help overall health:

  • Removing foods such as, sugar, gluten, and dairy products from the diet [1].
  • Removing foods that cause inflammation, such as alcohol and processed foods [2]
  • Replace the above with gut enriching fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, pickles, and sauerkraut [1].
    • Probiotics can also help in repopulating your gut with good bacteria [1]. 

General foods to improve digestive health [5]: 

  • Fruits and vegetables - grapes, bananas, cabbage, broccoli
  • Roots - potatoes, sweet potatoes 
  • Sprouted seeds - chia and flax seeds, sunflower seeds
  • Healthy fats - olive oil, avocado, coconut oil
  • Fish - tuna, salmon
  • Nuts 
  • Herbs and spices
  • Gluten free grains - amaranth, rice, teff, buckwheat

References

  1. Camilleri M. Leaky gut: mechanisms, measurement and clinical implications in humans. Gut. 2019;68(8):1516–26. 
  2. Campos M. Leaky gut: What is it, and what does it mean for you? [Internet]. Harvard Health Blog. 2019 [cited 2021Jan28]. Available from: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/leaky-gut-what-is-it-and-what-does-it-mean-for-you-2017092212451
  3. Fasano A. Leaky Gut and Autoimmune Diseases. Clinical Reviews in Allergy & Immunology. 2011;42:71–8.
  4. "Leaky gut syndrome" [Internet]. NHS Choices. NHS; 2018 [cited 2021Jan29]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/leaky-gut-syndrome/
  5. Raman R. The Leaky Gut Diet Plan: What to Eat, What to Avoid [Internet]. Healthline. 2019 [cited 2021Jan28]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/leaky-gut-diet


source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/how-improving-your-leaky-gut-can-improve-overall-health

Friday, February 12, 2021

What You Should Know About Digestive Enzymes

If your digestive enzymes aren't functioning well, you may be missing out on the performance-boosting benefits of your supercharged diet plans.

Your digestive tract uses enzymes to break down the food you eat to fuel your body. Bloating, malabsorption or trouble transitioning to a new diet plan can all be indicators of deficient enzymes.

Enzymes are now more common in supplements, but with a lot of brand names on there, it's hard to know where to begin. Keep reading for a jump-start overview of enzymes: what they are, why they are important, and which ones are right for you.  

WHAT ARE DIGESTIVE ENZYMES?

Enzymes are proteins your body produces that create chemical reactions your body needs. Your pancreas, tummy, salivary glands, and your small intestine all release enzymes that help you break down food into nutrients your body can take in. Enzymes additionally shield your digestive tract by breaking down inflammatory substances such as lectins, which contribute to leaky gut syndrome.

Different enzymes match with different compounds in your diet regimen, such as amino acids or sugars. The lactase enzyme is required to absorb lactose sugars. For example, grownups no longer create lactase, which is why lots of people can not drink milk.

WHAT FACTORS LOWER ENZYME PRODUCTION?

All the healthy and balanced food in the world won't help if your body does not have the enzymes required to break down the nutrients you intake. Pancreatic problems, damage to the digestive tract, or serious inflammation to the digestive system such as Celiac or Crohn's Disease can axe your enzyme production.

This can range from leaking gut, to bacteria growth, to minor food intolerances. Worse, with reduced enzyme counts, undigested proteins can go through your gut to cause more inflammation. Low stomach acid is additionally connected to low enzyme manufacturing. Your body also generates fewer enzymes as you age. But the biggest culprit by far is stress.  

 

High anxiety strangles food digestion by putting your body in a "fight or flight" status, affecting how much energy goes into your digestion. If your ancestor was running from a lion, digestion is the least important task at the time. Chronic stress and anxiety can lead to reduced levels of enzymes, resulting in malnutrition and improper absorption.

WHEN TO KNOW IF YOU HAVE LOW ENZYME COUNT

  • Frequent undigested food in stool.
  • Feeling a "rock" in your belly
  • Looseness of the bowels or irregular bowel movements
  • Gas or bloating
  • Unintentional weight reduction
  • Poor nutrition symptoms

These symptoms feel and appear a bit like eating non-nutritious foods like pizza. When you notice signs and symptoms like these with nutritious foods, you might have an enzyme issue.

Enzyme shortages can be hard to diagnose, given that they frequently share signs and symptoms with various other gastrointestinal problems. These nonspecific signals commonly go misdiagnosed or unknown. While direct examinations for enzyme counts can be beneficial for identifying severe pancreatic issues, stool examinations are a great way to catch the majority of issues. These tests provide an extensive picture of your enzyme health, plus markers such as microbial or fungal overgrowth, inflammation, food digestion, or parasite infection.

ARE DIGESTIVE ENZYMES THE ANSWER?

Ideally, your body creates enough of any given enzyme to manage your normal diet. Radical diet plans can throw your body off its usual routine, but supplementing the appropriate enzymes may aid in the transition.

Enzymes can also prevent food eating mishaps. If you're out with your buddies and eat something you normally can't handle, a quick intake of enzymes can help you break down the food and lessen any damage.

If specific foods often irritate you, stay away from them first and foremost. Test foods to identify which foods trigger digestive issues. If you have trouble with large food groups, such as leafy veggies or meats, extra enzymes can increase your digestion and vitamin absorption.

 

SELECTING THE RIGHT ENZYMES

With so many supplements out there, it can be tough to find the right one. There are no one-size-fits-all answers for enzymes. Additionally, different mixes or dosages may help different individuals. Stay clear of brand names with fillers or artificial ingredients, and determine if vegan pills are right for your way of life.

Enzyme supplements come in three categories: pet, plant, or sourced. Fungal-sourced enzymes are a powerful, cost-effective, and broad-spectrum choice. Given that these enzymes are taken from mushrooms and other fungi, they can be an issue for people with extreme fungi or nightshade digestive sensitivities. 

Animal-derived enzymes (typically pancreatic items from pigs) are broad-spectrum, potent, and a lot like our own enzymes, yet tend to be a lot more costly and also much less shelf-stable. They are also not ideal for people with immune system issues.

Plant-based enzymes, such as bromelain or papain, tend to be rare and less potent yet are budget-friendly and shelf-secure.

Supplements can assist if you are low on enzymes in general or if they target specific issues. Be sure to identify which foods you have a hard time with to limit the number and types of enzymes you require. Usually, a combination of supplements with a blend of the right enzymes is best. Here are some typical digestion enzymes and the foods they target.

Cellulase: cellulose in fiber-rich plants

Lipase: fats / oils

Protease: proteins

Peptidase: particular proteins such as gluten or casein

Alpha-galactosidase: starches in vegetables

Pectinase: pectin in fruits

Amylase: starches

Glucoamylase: maltose sugar

Invertase: sucrose sugar

Lactase: lactose sugar from dairy

 

When you start taking a supplement, try it out for 3-5 days to see exactly how it impacts your digestion. While dosages differ by brand, it typically works best to take them before you eat. A supplement takes 24 hours to pass through your body, so if there is no effect after a few days, start testing for other issues.

Keep in mind that stress, inflammation, and food are often at the root of enzyme deficiencies, A supplement might not always be the ideal answer. Other issues include eating too quickly, too much, and being stressed.

Enzymes are useful for instant relief on digestive issues; however, you need to accurately identify sources of swelling, anxiety, and stress to find the right match of enzyme.

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/what-you-should-know-about-digestive-enzymes

Surprise! Calcium is Bad, Here’s Why

A 2010 British Medical Journal meta-analysis revealed that "Risks outweigh benefits for calcium supplements." The study shows the number of cardiovascular and stroke events caused by calcium supplements in patients over 65 is too high to condone usage.

Data from 15 trials from a total of 12,000 people show a 30% rise in risk. The seven researchers who reviewed the literature state that the danger of bone issues is modest, but that with such a large number of people taking calcium supplements, "even a small increase in the incidence of cardiovascular disease could translate into a large burden of disease in the population." They follow this by saying the data "suggest that a reassessment of the role of calcium supplements in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis is warranted."

If you know a bit about calcium supplements, it's apparent why they don't work. Of each calcium supplement taken orally, just 4% to 15% is consumed by the body. The remainder sits in various body sections, leading to gallstones, kidney stones, spurs, atherosclerotic calcium deposits, and breast calcifications. If 100% of each supplement was absorbed by the body, we wouldn't be dealing with "too much," or there would be nothing left to create problems.

What to Take in Lieu of Calcium Supplements

Eat calcium-rich foods. Research which foods are best and see if they are included in  your diet. Then follow the same process with magnesium. For easy math, double the amount of magnesium that you would take of calcium. You can also take supplements of magnesium since, unlike calcium, your body doesn't absorb high percentages of it.

If you still want to take calcium, take an angstrom form of it. Only take a small portion of calcium because your body absorbs the entire amount.

Also, have your doctor test your Vitamin D levels. If you are deficient, spend time outdoors in the sun for 30 minutes a day, and don't apply sunscreen. Additionally, intake at least a few thousand IU's of D3 supplements.

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/surprise-calcium-is-bad-here-s-why

Monday, February 8, 2021

The Gymnema Sylvestre Leaf

Found in central and western India, tropical Africa and Australia, Gymnema sylvestre is a medicinal climbing plant used in traditional, homeopathic models of medicine. It's a slow growing plant, and its leaves are usually elliptical or oval and its flowers are small and yellow. With anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and sweet suppressing qualities, it has been used for numerous ailments. Primarily, research has been directed towards its sweet suppressing properties as an antidiabetic [3]. In Hindi, Gymnema sylvestre is known as Gurmar, which literally means “sugar destroyer” [2]. 

Uses

  • Diabetes - a common complication caused by the body’s inability to use or produce insulin appropriately [1]. 
    • The antidiabetic molecules have been identified as a group of gymnemic acids after isolating from the leaves of the plant [3]. 
    • Gymnemic acids have the ability to delay the absorption of glucose in the blood as the atomic arrangement of the molecules is similar to glucose molecules - they are able fill in the receptors on the taste buds and in the intestines, thereby inhibiting actual sugar molecules from binding. As a result, it is preventing sugar absorption and consequently reducing sugar cravings [3]. 
    • In studies on animal models, they found that the administration of this plant led to the reduction in insulin levels, protein, triglycerides (fats), cholesterol and glucose, and an overall reduction in body weight [4]. These results show promise for diabetes treatments.
    • Additionally, the lack of insulin in diabetes patients leads to high blood sugar levels (since insulin is the hormone responsible for moving sugar from the blood to cells), so here the extract from the leaves of Gymnema sylvestre seems to be inducing insulin production from the body itself [5].  **This clinical study was only conducted on 27 patients, so results cannot be made conclusive.**
  • Anticancer Activity
    • A component of Gymnema sylvestre, called gymnemagenol, has shown positive anticancer properties [4].
    • Significant anticancer activity was observed for melanoma, as well as inhibition for breast cancer resistant proteins [4].
  • Antimicrobial Activity 
    • Different extracts and isolated compounds of Gymnema sylvestre have reported antimicrobial activity against many microorganisms. 
      • For example, plant extract mixed with water and ethanol was found to be active against pathogenic Salmonella species. And, extract mixed with chloroform, ethyl acetate and ethanol reported to be active against E. Coli and other bacteria [4]. 

In general, the leaves provide for diabetes treatment while the leaf extracts (in different mediums) provide for the antimicrobial and anticancer properties [6].

Dosage

As known, when looking at dosage of herbal supplements, it's important to check multiple factors, including age, health conditions and coexisting medications. Despite numerous studies being conducted, we do not have a definitive dosage level for Gymnema sylvestre. 

Dried leaves can be ground into powder and saved for later uses,  for example, in teas or simply chewed and eaten. Supplements in tablet and capsule form are also made which help control for accurate dosage [2].

As always, dosing should be under recommended ranges, and for Gymnema sylvestre, most commonly used dosages in studies were around 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) per [1]. Keep in mind, with no exact specifications, high dosages can be harmful [6].

Side Effects

Common Side Effects (directly correlated to the reduction in blood sugar) 

  • Headache
  • Dizziness / lightheadedness
  • Nausea 
  • Shakiness 

** For certain groups of individuals, such as children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, people with diabetes, and those taking blood sugar lowering medication, talking to a healthcare provider is crucial before taking Gymnema sylvestre supplements. **

Drug interaction for those with diabetes taking insulin medication can be debilitating as the effects of insulin increase the effects of Gymnema sylvestre - so please contact your healthcare provider before taking the plant supplements - this also applies to other antidiabetic drugs [1].  

Concluding thoughts 

Apart from certain groups of individuals, Gymnema sylvestre has been used traditionally for ages so consumption of it under low dosage should be appropriate. Coupled with the fact that it is beneficial for the body and relieves several major ailments, Gymnema sylvestre is a promising supplement in up-and-coming research!

References

  1. Christiansen S. The Health Benefits of Gymnema Sylvestre [Internet]. Verywell Health. 2020 [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/gymnema-sylvestre-4692940
  2. Gymnema [Internet]. Monterey Bay Spice Company. [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: https://www.herbco.com/c-357-gymnema.aspx 
  3. Kanetkar P, Singhal R, Kamat M. Gymnema sylvestre: A Memoir [Internet]. Journal of clinical biochemistry and nutrition. the Society for Free Radical Research Japan; 2007 [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2170951/.
  4. Khan F, Sarker MMR, Ming LC, Mohamed IN, Zhao C, Sheikh BY, et al. Comprehensive Review on Phytochemicals, Pharmacological and Clinical Potentials of Gymnema sylvestre [Internet]. Frontiers. Frontiers; 2019 [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.01223/full 
  5. Shanmugasundaram ERB, Rajeswari G, Baskaran K, Kumar BRR, Shanmugasundaram KR, Ahmath BK. Use of Gymnema sylvestre leaf extract in the control of blood glucose in insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus [Internet]. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Elsevier; 2002 [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0378874190901075 
  6. Tiwari P, Mishra BN, Sangwan NS. Phytochemical and Pharmacological Properties of Gymnema sylvestre: An Important Medicinal Plant [Internet]. BioMed Research International. Hindawi; 2014 [cited 2020Dec12]. Available from: https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2014/830285/ 


source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/the-gymnema-sylvestre-leaf

Friday, February 5, 2021

How to Choose Safe and Natural Deodorant Options

Believe it or not, your skin is permeable and absorbs pretty much everything you apply to it, which explains why "transdermal" skin patches exist. These patches are 95% even more reliable than certain medications orally. Drugmakers know the fastest way to introduce a drug into your blood is through your skin.

Certain skin areas are more effective than others – especially those with high blood flow and bigger sweat pores. Your armpits are good examples, and this is why you should be careful about the deodorant you choose.

Here are ingredients to avoid.

# 1) Aluminum: It stops sweat by swelling cells to close your sweat ducts. Be aware of aluminum chlorohydrate, lightweight aluminum zirconium, and any phrase with "aluminum" in it. This metal may accumulate in your body over time and may lead to Alzheimer's.

# 2) Triclosan. You can easily find this in air fresheners. It is a carcinogenic chemical that can reside in your body fat. Even though it is antibacterial, it can lead to the creation of antibiotic-resistant germs.

# 3) Talc. Talc, or "talcum powder," often has asbestos in it and is known to be carcinogenic. Though it helps keep skin from becoming too dry, you should avoid it.  

# 4) Parabens. Parabens consist of anything that begins with methyl, ethyl, propyl, benzyl, or butyl. They are hazardous petrochemical materials that can negatively affect your hormones. They can act like estrogen and other types of hormones. They can reduce your chances of reproduction and function much like carcinogens.

# 5) Propylene Glycol. This is a form of mineral oil in brake and gas fluid as well as commercial antifreeze. In air fresheners, propylene helps stop the loss of water. It is neurotoxic and can cause liver and kidney issues.

# 6) Steareth-n. The "n" in this name can represent any type of number. The ingredient reacts with"ethylene oxide" to create a cancer-causing material compound. 

# 7) Silica Silica reduces wetness, but it could have crystalline quartz, which is carcinogenic. And breathing in silica can cause respiratory disease or even cancer.

 If you check out the tag of your air freshener or deodorant and see any of the compounds above, simply replace it with another type or brand.

So Which Antiperspirant is Best?  

Try products that use lichen extract and rosemary to keep odors down and stay refreshed. The blend has antibacterial properties and keeps bacteria from producing strong odors. To stay dry, try cotton extract and witch hazel. And to prevent sensitive skin, try organic aloe vera. These are all clean and healthy options for your skin.

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/how-to-choose-safe-and-natural-deodorant-options

Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Extensive Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

Like kale and coconut oil, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has a long history of benefits that led to its popular reputation. More healthy than dressings on salads and foods, apple cider vinegar is loaded with good bacteria and healthy nutrients for cholesterol balance, glucose moderation, and improved nutrients absorption.

Let's review the benefits of apple cider vinegar, including its weight-loss and overall wellness benefits.

WHAT IS ACV?

Proclaimed by many health experts as a magic bullet for health and an effective wellness potion, apple cider vinegar has long been used as a solution for a wealth of issues from battling growths to boosting cardio health. 

Apple cider vinegar is a hard cider made from fermented apple juice that then turns into vinegar. Fermentation utilizes bacteria and yeast to transform carbohydrates or alcohol directly into acids. ACVs extensive dual fermentation breaks down almost all sugar from the apples and creates one of the cider's most important substances: acetic acid.

WHY APPLE CIDER VINEGAR IS BETTER THAN OTHER VINEGAR

Many kinds of vinegar contain yeast and other fungal spin-offs that operate as antinutrients and decrease its benefits. Red wine vinegar, malt vinegar, and also balsamic vinegar are high in antinutrients, consisting of mold, mildew, and toxic substances - even led.

PROVEN HEALTH BENEFITS OF APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Sustains healthy and balanced weight loss: Apple cider vinegar has a long history as a weight-loss treatment. Current research studies are starting to reveal why. A research released in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry shows that drinking 1tbsp of vinegar in 500mL of water lowered body weight, fat, and waistline in overweight individuals over the course of 12 weeks. The acetic acid in vinegar can also minimize blood sugar and insulin in certain foods and make you feel fuller, so you eat less.

 

 

Healthy blood sugar and cholesterol levels: Apple cider vinegar maintains blood sugar levels. Research from one study showed ingesting 20 grams (4 tsp) of apple cider vinegar in 40 grams of water before eating a full meal enhanced insulin sensitivity. It also minimized blood sugar in people who are prone to insulin resistance as well as in healthy individuals. An additional research study revealed that both healthy and diabetic rats fed with ACV had less dangerous cholesterol levels, with reduced LDL as well as enhanced HDL in their blood.

GI Health: SIBO (similar to IBS) and heartburn are often caused from a lack of sufficient stomach acid. Drinking a dilution of apple cider vinegar before a full meal helps rid your body of these symptoms by raising the acidity level in your belly. Apple cider vinegar also brings with it prebiotics-- indigestible carbohydrates that stabilize your intestine microbiome and also fight dangers like H. pylori.

Raises nutrition absorption: Acetic acid can enhance your capability to soak up nutrients such as calcium from your food. Dash some vinegar to your food or drink an apple cider vinegar tonic to experience the benefits.

Reduces Pain from Burns and Stings: Apple cider vinegar takes the heat out of sunburns and stings from poison ivy. And the acetic acid helps relieve the extreme pain from jellyfish stings. Just dab a bit on a towel and place on the burn for half a minute, and keep away from broken areas of skin. Since you aren't drinking it, you can also use distilled ACV.

Calms aching throats: Since ACV antibacterial, apple cider vinegar makes an efficient natural remedy for aching throats. Drinking or swishing a watered-down ACV can ease discomfort.  Note: wash your mouth out afterward to protect your teeth enamel.

A chemical-free solution for your lungs and home: A 1:1 dilution of apple cider vinegar and water makes a reliable and easy cleaning option. Utilize it for anything from cleaning glass and removing mold without exposing your nose and eyes to powerful cleaning products. Use distilled, filtered vinegar, so it works best with your spray bottle.  

Stops candida fungus overgrowth: Apple cider vinegar's antimicrobial traits expand to some other fungi as well, like candida (the yeast that causes athlete's foot and gut problems.) Drinking a watered-down ACV tonic might assist with inner yeast infection overgrowth, while a 1:1 dilution in warm water makes an effective foot soak solution.


USING ACV ON YOUR BEAUTY REGIMEN

According to Dr. Trevor Cates, writer of "Clean Skin from Within," pH can aid substantially in treatment as long as it stays at a pH between 4 and 4.5. Many exceed that amount, which causes skin aging.       

Apple cider vinegar skin toner: Make a natural ACV toner with an unfiltered brand of ACV. You can also make your own with water (1:2 or 1:3 of vinegar to water). The acid in the vinegar provides the ideal pH on clean, recently washed skin. Use a cotton ball to apply it in areas on the skin, avoiding the eyes.

Apple cider vinegar for acne: ACV has keratolytic and peeling properties that fight against acne, but it shouldn't be used raw. Make a toner like the one listed above, or make a mask from two capsules of Coconut Charcoal and a small amount of cider to create a paste. Apply and wait for about 15 minutes. You can also buy pre-made ACV washes.

ACV deodorant: Body smell is essentially microorganisms living and defecating on your skin. Sounds gross, right? ACV under your arms works as effective odor prevention and works equally well for your feet.

Apple cider vinegar for hair: For shinier, healthier hair, mix 1 cup of water and either 1 or 2 tbsp of ACV and apply to wet hair. If your hair is typically more dry, then use less. If you have oily hair, then use more. For best application, use a hair dye squeeze bottle.

WHICH IS THE BEST APPLE CIDER VINEGAR?

The uglier it is, the better it is. You want something dark, a bit like lake water. This dark substance is called "the mother," and all that darkness is chock-full of probiotics, good bacteria, and enzymes. The clearer the liquid is, the less effective it is. 

Avoid tablets: Stick to raw ACV as a liquid since they have live probiotics. Tablets also cause esophageal damage, and research is showing signs that ACV may not even be present on some ACV tablet brands.

Apple cider vinegar beverage: For a tonic, Dilute 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar in 8-ounces of water. Constantly wash your mouth with water after use and avoid applying it to your eyes. And no matter what, don't drink the vinegar without diluting it. ACV can damage your stomach and teeth. 

For more wellness tips visit our blog.

source https://www.nutrav.com/blogs/news/extensive-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar

Monday, February 1, 2021

What is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha is an herb that has been widely used in Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medicine based on natural remedies, for over 3000 years. Having a botanical name, Withania Somnifera, Ashwagandha is also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. It grows in Africa, the Mediterranean, and India and grows to 30-150cm in height. [1] The whitish brown root of Ashwagandha is the main therapeutic ingredient, historically used for anti-inflammatory effect, rejuvenation, disease prevention, and treatment for various infections. [2] Currently, much research has scientifically shown the promising effects of Ashwagandha. 


Anti-stress, anti-anxiety, anti-depression

Several pre-clinical and clinical studies have shown that Ashwagandha has strong anxiolytic effects potential. In a pre-clinical study with rats, extracts from Ashwagandha roots were orally administered to the rats for 5 days and compared with current anxiolytic and antidepressant drugs (lorazepam, imipramine). Ashwagandha extract showed comparable anxiolytic and antidepressant effects as lorazepam and imipramine.[3]

A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical study was done on 39 subjects with anxiety disorders. After 6 weeks of orally administering 250mg tablet of ethanolic Ashwagandha extract twice a day, 88.2% of the patients’ anxiety score was decreased to ‘no anxiety’ criteria which is significantly better than the placebo group (50%).[4] Another study was done on patients with chronic stress. 64 Patients received 300 mg of Ashwagandha root extract twice a day for 60 days. The Ashwagandha root extract was able to induce a significant reduction in the stress-assessment score and serum cortisol level. [5]

 A larger-scale investigation would be more beneficial, but the current studies support Ashwagandha's promising effect on anxiety, stress, and depression.


Hypothyroidism Treatment

           The thyroid is a small organ located in the front of the neck which has a very important function in body homeostasis. It produces hormones to control body temperatures and heart rate as well as how much energy to use. Hypothyroidism, lack of thyroid activity, can cause mild symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, depression, loss of sexual interest to severe symptoms such as heart failure and coma.

           Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) are the two most important hormones which are downregulated in hypothyroid patients. In a pre-clinical rat model of hypothyroidism, hypothyroidism rats treated with Ashwagandha extract showed significant improvement in both serum T3 and T4 levels compared to the placebo. Although the extract was not as effective as hypothyroidism medicine (Eltroxin), the result was comparable. However, even in normal rats without hypothyroidism, the extract increased both T3 and T4 levels. [6,7]

           A few clinical studies on hypothyroidism are available as well. In a study to treat bipolar disorder patients with Ashwagandha extracts, scientists noticed subtle increases in T4 levels. In another clinical study with subclinical hypothyroidism patients, a patient group which administered 600mg of the root extract for 8 weeks showed significant improvement in serum T3 and T4 level. [8]

           Current scientific evidence shows that Ashwagandha extract is effective in increasing thyroid hormones level. However, caution is required since it can increase thyroid hormone levels even in healthy and hyperthyroidism individuals.


Cognitive Functions 

Cognitive decline comes along with aging. Ashwagandha has been used to reverse the memory and cognitive decline for a long time in Ayurveda and it is currently scientifically investigated on its efficacy for improving cognitive ability. In a review of 5 currently available clinical studies, all of the 5 studies showed significant improvement in cognitive functions such as reaction time, memory, and information processing speed, compared to the placebo groups. The study subjects were diverse including healthy young males age 20-35, bipolar patients, and children with mental retardation. [9]


Anticancer

           Ashwagandha extract has various alkaloids including Withaferin A (WFA) which is proven to be toxic to various cancer cells. Many in vitro studies with cancer cell lines propose numerous mechanisms such as enhancing reactive oxygen species production, NF-𝜅B inhibition, increase inflammatory cytokine, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in which ashwagandha can treat cancers. Active ingredients, especially WFA have shown apoptotic efficacy in breast, prostate, pancreatic, colorectal, leukemic, and ovarian cancer cells. Moreover, the ashwagandha extract can potentiate current radio- and chemotherapy through radio- and chemosensitization. [10]

           In Addition to potential cancer therapeutic efficacy, Ashwagandha can alleviate some symptoms in patients going through chemotherapy. In phase II clinical study of combined ashwagandha extract and chemotherapy in breast cancer, patients with combined therapy felt much less fatigue, had a significantly better quality of life, and longer survival of the patients compared to chemotherapy alone. [11]

           Currently, there are no clinical trials on human subjects to test its efficacy in treating cancer cells. However, considering abundant clinical evidence on the safety of ashwagandha for oral administration, orally administering it less than 1000 mg/day might be worth a try.


Toxicity. 

Ashwagandha has shown no major side effects in both pre-clinical and clinical studies when administered orally (up to 2000mg/kg per day). In the rat models, Ashwagandha was proved to be safe even for the fetus and pregnant mothers. However, direct intraperitoneal (abdomen) injection has shown acute toxicity and therefore, injection of Ashwagandha extract is strongly discouraged. Based on current animal models and small-scale clinical studies, it can be considered a safe medicinal herb for natural remedies against various diseases.[5,12]

 

References

 

  1. Gupta, G.L., & Rana, A.C. (2019). PHCOG MAG.: Plant Review Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review.
  2. Mishra, L. C., Singh, B. B., & Dagenais, S. (2000). Scientific basis for the therapeutic use of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha): a review. Alternative medicine review : a journal of clinical therapeutic, 5(4), 334–346.
  3. Bhattacharya, S. K., Bhattacharya, A., Sairam, K., & Ghosal, S. (2000). Anxiolytic-antidepressant activity of Withania somnifera glycowithanolides: an experimental study. Phytomedicine : international journal of phytotherapy and phytopharmacology7(6), 463–469. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(00)80030-6
  4. Andrade, C., Aswath, A., Chaturvedi, S. K., Srinivasa, M., & Raguram, R. (2000). A double-blind, placebo-controlled evaluation of the anxiolytic efficacy ff an ethanolic extract of withania somnifera. Indian journal of psychiatry42(3), 295–301.
  5. Chandrasekhar, K., Kapoor, J., & Anishetty, S. (2012). A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. Indian journal of psychological medicine34(3), 255–262. https://doi.org/10.4103/0253-7176.106022
  6. Hosny, E. N., El-Gizawy, M. M., Sawie, H. G., Abdel-Wahhab, K. G., & Khadrawy, Y. A. (2020). Neuroprotective Effect of Ashwagandha Extract against the Neurochemical Changes Induced in Rat Model of Hypothyroidism. Journal of dietary supplements, 1–20. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2020.1713959
  7. Abdel-Wahhab, K. G., Mourad, H. H., Mannaa, F. A., Morsy, F. A., Hassan, L. K., & Taher, R. F. (2019). Role of ashwagandha methanolic extract in the regulation of thyroid profile in hypothyroidism modeled rats. Molecular biology reports46(4), 3637–3649. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11033-019-04721-x
  8. Sharma, A. K., Basu, I., & Singh, S. (2018). Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha Root Extract in Subclinical Hypothyroid Patients: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. Journal of alternative and complementary medicine (New York, N.Y.)24(3), 243–248. https://doi.org/10.1089/acm.2017.0183
  9. Ng, Q. X., Loke, W., Foo, N. X., Tan, W. J., Chan, H. W., Lim, D. Y., & Yeo, W. S. (2020). A systematic review of the clinical use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) to ameliorate cognitive dysfunction. Phytotherapy research : PTR34(3), 583–590. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6552
  10. Dutta, R., Khalil, R., Green, R., Mohapatra, S. S., & Mohapatra, S. (2019). Withania Somnifera (Ashwagandha) and Withaferin A: Potential in Integrative Oncology. International journal of molecular sciences20(21), 5310. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms20215310
  11. Biswal, B. M., Sulaiman, S. A., Ismail, H. C., Zakaria, H., & Musa, K. I. (2013). Effect of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on the development of chemotherapy-induced fatigue and quality of life in breast cancer patients. Integrative cancer therapies12(4), 312–322. https://doi.org/10.1177/1534735412464551
  12. Mandlik Ingawale, D. S., & Namdeo, A. G. (2020). Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. Journal of dietary supplements, 1–44. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1080/19390211.2020.1741484

 



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What You Should Know About Dysentery

Dysentery is the cause of 20% of deaths resulting from diarrhea [1]. It stems from an infection of the intestines that leads to diarrhea wit...