Your Organs and Tissues Need Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential trace mineral, which operates on a cellular level and accumulates in organs and tissues. It is a cofactor for hundreds of enzymes and therefore involved in more than 300 regulatory and biochemical functions such as energy production; synthesis of essential molecules (DNA, RNA and proteins); hormonal pathways and regulation of other minerals (calcium, copper, zinc, potassium) and vitamin D in the body. Magnesium is also necessary to get calcium into bone matter and plays a structural role in making strong bones and teeth with calcium and vitamin D. This is what contributes to us getting healthier. It is required for temperature regulations, transmission of nerve impulses, detoxification in the liver, and for optimal functioning of all systems in the body such as nervous, muscular, cardiovascular and excretory systems.

Besides, these myriad functions, magnesium is the vitally important mineral that works as an electrolyte and maintain electrical stability of every cell in the body especially the heart, muscles, brain and kidneys. Therefore, magnesium deficiency makes people susceptible to a wide range of clinical and subclinical symptoms:

1. Cardiovascular symptoms: arrhythmia (or abnormal heart rhythms or palpitations), high blood pressure, high serum cholesterol and triglycerides levels, and circulatory disturbances (atherosclerosis, stroke and congestive heart failure)
2. Neurological symptoms: migraine headaches, chronic fatigue syndrome, anxiety, agitation, irritability or restlessness, ADHD, sensitivity to noise, poor memory, confusion, seizures and depression.
3. Gastro-intestinal disturbances: food allergies, sensitivities, nausea and vomiting, gut disorders, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, constipation and lack of appetite.
4. Muscular symptoms: muscle soreness or weakness, muscle spasms, cramps, back pain, restless legs syndrome (RLS), fibromyalgia, cystic fibrosis, vertigo, tremors and trouble in swallowing
5. Poor bone and teeth health: calcium deficiency, osteoporosis, low vitamin D levels, frequent cavities and poor dental health
6. Kidney disease: kidney stones
7. Diabetes: pancreatitis or insulin resistance  
8. Thyroid issues: hyperthyroidism
9. Insomnia: sleep disturbances
10. Preeclampsia and eclampsia: A sharp rise in blood pressure during the third trimester of pregnancy i.e. preeclampsia. These women may develop seizures, which is then called eclampsia.

Studies suggest that women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as bloating, insomnia, leg swelling, weight gain and breast tenderness are often deficient in magnesium. Low levels of magnesium may also increase the risk of developing asthma, arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease and certain cancer. If you are suffering from more than one of the above symptoms and diseases, you are more likely to be magnesium deficient and can get healthier and benefit by adding this nutrient.  Learn how you can boost your immune system naturally. 

In fact, magnesium is used in the hospitals as a critical “medication” in emergency situations such as life-threatening arrhythmia, pre-term labor, seizures associated with eclampsia or complications from preeclampsia. Several research studies show that intravenous (IV) magnesium and magnesium inhaled through a nebulizer can treat acute attacks of asthma in adults and children.

Magnesium in Drinking Water

Though, magnesium is found abundantly on earth and in natural water sources, modern lifestyle habits may be the reason behind the prevalent magnesium deficiency. Industrial monoculture agricultural practices use massive amount of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and insecticides that are absorbed into the soil, making soil depleted and the food produce deficient in natural minerals. Drinking water from municipal supplies is also lacking in minerals that are found in healthy drinking water from natural sources. Fluoride content can hinder magnesium absorption.

Further, consumption of a highly-processed, refined diet (that contains no magnesium) with too much sugar and salt, caffeine, soda, alcohol depletes body’s magnesium stores and lead to leaky gut syndrome which making it difficult to absorb vital nutrients (vitamins and minerals) from your food.  Hectic working schedules and prolonged and intense stress can lead to complete depletion of magnesium stores, as magnesium is required for stress hormone production.

It is important to focus on maintaining a healthy diet.

Magnesium and Medications

Use of some drugs like birth control pills, antacid, antibiotics, diuretics, insulin and hypertension medicine also deplete magnesium levels. In certain conditions (such as pregnancy, recovery from surgery and illnesses, and athletic training) you become more susceptible for magnesium deficiency because of increased requirement.

To treat magnesium deficiency the first step is to strengthen the digestive system and restore gut health by eating magnesium rich foods such as seeds (flax, pumpkin, sun flower, sesame), nuts, green leafy vegetables, legumes especially beans, avocado and whole grains. Other dietary sources of magnesium are bananas, baked potatoes (with skin), okra, blackstrap molasses and cocoa powder. Try magnesium rich seaweeds (Agar), herbs and spices (coriander, celery, sage, mustard, basil, fennel, poppy and cumin seed) to flavor your regular meals. Also, dark chocolate is good source of magnesium. If you are a chocolate lover, go ahead!  

However, for some raising magnesium levels may require additional efforts. It is possible to increase magnesium levels by applying magnesium chloride also known as magnesium oil to your body, or soak in epsom salt bath for better absorption of magnesium through your skin in the blood and tissues of the body. It is possible to greatly improve magnesium deficiency symptoms like swelling, inflammation, and muscle aches and pains. Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga will further help in reducing your stress levels and the body’s demand for magnesium..

If you are considering magnesium supplementation go for more absorbable forms such as magnesium citrate, glycinate, taurate, or aspartate. Also, it will be a good idea to take a multi-vitamin-mineral formula with magnesium supplement as you need enough vitamin B6, vitamin D and selenium for proper absorption of magnesium into the cells. As a precautionary measure people suffering from kidney disease or severe heart disease should take magnesium supplementation only under a doctor’s supervision.

The post Magnesium Deficiency Symptoms appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

“Death begins in the colon.” wrote the Nobel prize winner Eli Metchnikoff, PhD. Your gut contains about 100 trillion microbes that are symbiotic organisms. In exchange for you providing them with “room and board”, these organisms play a key role in your mental and physical health. The type and quantity of the bacterial species in your gut (digestive tract) influence your metabolism and determine how efficiently you will lose or put on weight on your belly. These little critters also have a huge impact on your overall health and cancer risk.

Research suggests that healthy gut microbiome has an important role in maintaining optimum health. It facilitates normal functioning of digestive system; controls appetite; regulates metabolism; maintains blood pressure; produces vitamins and hormones; and boosts immunity and mental health.

Healthy Gut Microbiome Reduces Inflammation

However, various lifestyle factors (chronic stress, poor diet and environmental toxins) cause significant overgrowth of unhealthy microbes in your body, which disrupts the balance in your gut and ultimately causes an unhealthy gut microbiome. This modulation in the composition and metabolic activity of your gut flora triggers inflammation and damages your intestinal lining resulting in leaky gut.

As a consequence of leaky gut you get elevated blood sugar levels, which stimulate production of insulin (fat-storing hormone) and leptin (the hunger hormone). This condition makes it difficult for you to lose fat especially in your abdominal region and increases your risk of metabolic diseases, too.

If you have any of following symptoms (gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, frequent illnesses, sugar cravings), improving your gut microbiome will see an improvement in your health.

Steps to Restore Gut Microbiome

Foods for Healthy Gut Microbiome

The food you eat determines the type of bacteria you are feeding in your gut.

Choose a Healthy Diet

Refined carbohydrates, sugary, fatty foods and alcohol, all these foods feed pathogenic bacteria and are toxins that stop good bacteria from growing in your gut. As, gut bugs thrive on such foods, they produce cravings for these junk foods. So, eliminating these foods from your diet besides helping you take control of your gut flora, aids in losing belly fat.

For the same reason avoid artificial sweeteners (splenda, sucralose and others) and watch your intake of fructose, as these sugars serve as fertilizer for unhealthy microflora (bacteria, yeast and fungi), which disrupts the balance in your gut.

Also a diet high in animal fat and protein (meat and cheese) feeds a type of bacteria that triggers inflammation and intestinal diseases. Eat a plant based diet, which includes: fruit, vegetable, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, sea weed, mushroom, and medicinal seasonings. Add meat (beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs) in limited quantities.

Eat Plant-Based Diet

Whole grains (whole wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, millets), legumes (beans), vegetables and fruits are also called prebiotics, as these are rich in fiber, which acts like fertilizer in nourishing healthy and diverse microflora in your gut. These fiber rich foods make you feel full for longer and also discourage the growth of bad bugs, which helps in combating cravings. When you eat, whole fruits the fiber and polyphenols content help in balancing out the effects of fructose and reduce inflammation caused by unhealthy bacteria. So, do make sure that you eat a fiber rich whole food diet after a junk food treat to replenish good bacteria.

Probiotics are type of healthy bacteria that are similar to the ones found inside your gut and fermented foods are the natural source of probiotics. To enjoy fermented food with maximum amount of beneficial bacteria make your own fermented vegetables (kimchi and sauerkraut), kefir, raw pickles, olives, yogurt, cheese, tempeh, miso and natto. Fermented foods can inoculate the gut with the healthy probiotic bacteria to keep your gut and health in good shape.

Add Variety in your Meals

Eating variety of fiber-rich, nutritious, whole foods helps in nourishing diverse and rich microflora in your gut. This helps in controlling the population of unhealthy bacteria and thereby reduces the risk for inflammation and leaky gut syndrome.

Fight Cancer Naturally

Improve Gut Microbiome with Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial to foster friendly flora in your gut. Your gut needs water for proper digestion of food, maintaining balance of microflora and flushing out toxins and wastes from the body. Drinking water before meals besides increasing your metabolic rate; prevents overeating and makes you feel full for longer. It also helps in eliminating sugar or calorie consumed via sodas, juices or alcoholic drinks. So, keep yourself hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water every day, to heal your gut and reduce belly fat.

Exercise can Improve Gut Microbiome

Exercise helps in boosting healthy bacteria in your gut by increasing your intestinal flow rate and boosting metabolism. Research shows that microbiomes of people who do regular exercise are more diverse than that of people, who don’t. In another study, a significant increase in number of healthy bacteria was found in the microbiota of rats, who had access to exercise. Exercise helps to trigger peristalsis in the gut, which is the rhythmic action of muscles moving the feces toward the colon for a bowel movement. When you take your dog for a walk, that is what triggers the dog’s bowel movement and the need to clean up after your pet. Humans need movement to encourage a bowel movement.

Manage Your Stress for a Healthy Gut

Stressful conditions trigger release of “fight-or-flight” hormones i.e. cortisol, norepinephrine and epinephrine. When you have chronic stress, your cortisol level remains high for a prolonged period of time, which creates a condition of chronic starvation and leads to formation of stubborn belly fat. Stress also weakens the health of your gut by releasing inflammatory cytokines and causing imbalance in your microbiome. So, to heal your gut schedule sometime daily for stress reducing activities such as relaxation exercises (mindfulness, yoga and meditation), spending quality time with family, watching or reading something funny.

Adequate Rest

A consistent sleep cycle helps in production of hormones melatonin and prolactin. Research shows that these hormones help in proper digestion of food by maintaining balance in your gut. Circadian disorganization due to travel, shift job or other reasons alters intestinal microbiota, so you must practice good sleep hygiene and get at least 7-8 hours of sleep, to restore balance in your gut.

Easy Stress Relief Habits

Less Exposure to Toxins

When toxic chemicals from your environment, food and household products make way into your gut, they trigger an inflammatory cytokine response. This leads to increased fat storage and decreased fat breakdown. So, limit your exposure to toxic chemicals by choosing pesticide, fertilizer and antibiotic free organic food and using all-natural household products.

Avoid Antibiotics

Excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics can cause serious damage to your long term health, as these antibiotic pills kill both healthy and unhealthy bacteria in your gut. GMO food is genetically modified organisms, which means altered to tolerate lethal doses of glyphosate (Roundup) which was patented as an antibiotic. There are 12,000 lawsuits pending against Bayer/Monsanto for lymphoma cancer caused by Roundup, because it affects the microbiome. Eat organic food whenever possible. Avoid hard liquor which acts like antibiotics on the gut. Please consult with your healthcare professional before changing medications.

Promote Healthy Gut Microbiome

A healthy gut is essential for your overall well-being. It helps you digest food, absorb nutrients, fight infections and prevent diseases. To maintain a healthy gut, you should eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fiber, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and probiotics. These foods feed the good bacteria in your gut and keep them diverse and strong. You should also avoid processed foods, excess alcohol, smoking and unnecessary antibiotics that can harm your gut microbiome. In conclusion, a healthy gut is a key to a healthy life.

The post Gut Microbiome appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

1. Better for your health: Many store-bought salad dressings contain unhealthy ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, unhealthy oils, and preservatives. Homemade dressings are made with fresh ingredients and allow you to control the amount of salt and sugar in your dressing.

2. Saves money: Making your own salad dressing is much cheaper than buying store-bought dressings, which can sometimes cost more than $5 per bottle. Homemade dressings can be made with simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.

3. Customizable: Homemade salad dressings allow you to create your own flavor combinations and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, and vinegars to create a dressing that complements your salad perfectly.

4. Helps you eat more vegetables: These dairy free homemade salad dressings are packed with flavor can make it easier to eat more salads and vegetables. By combining healthy fats, such as olive oil, with flavorful ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, you can make salads that are both delicious and nutritious.

5. Supports local produce: If you use fresh, locally-grown ingredients to make your dressing, you support local farmers and ensure that you are eating the freshest, healthiest ingredients possible.

Overall, homemade salad dressings that are dairy free, are a simple way to make your salads healthier and more flavorful. You can experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find the perfect dressing for your taste buds, and in the process, improve your overall health and wellbeing.

Boost Your Gut Microbiome

1. Lemon Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

– ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar Dressing

Ingredients:

– ½ cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

3. Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

– ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

4. Blueberry Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp citrus juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place blueberries in saucepan and cook on medium low heat until berries are soft
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic, citrus juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend on high blueberries and liquid.
2. Great served warm or cold. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Homemade Salad Dressings – Dairy Free

Homemade salad dressings are easy to make, taste great and are much healthier for you. Be flexible with your ingredients. If you have a home garden or kitchen herbs, make sure to use them.

The post Homemade Salad Dressings – Dairy Free appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

Living in Tulsa, OK for 11 years, I asked the locals if crime was a problem.  They replied, “well, in August you better be sure to lock your car, because otherwise someone might put a bag of zucchini in your car.”    People who grow zucchini, like me, harvest more than we can eat. Zucchini is a one of the healthiest vegetables, packed with nutrition, and with many health benefits.

Zucchini, otherwise called summer squash, is a member of the gourd family. It originated from Central America from where it has spread to the rest of the world. This popular succulent vegetable does well in warm weather, in places with moist, fertile soil. It takes 35 to 60 days from planting to first harvest. The plant grows to a height of two and a half feet. For best flavor, zucchini fruits are harvested when they are 4-8 inches. Darker fruits are usually higher in nutrients. But what are the health benefits of zucchini?

Here are 9 health benefits of zucchini, they are packed with many nutritional benefits. They are a great addition to a healthy diet.

1.     Zucchini improves digestion

Incorporating zucchini in your diet can help improve digestion including reducing the incidence of constipation and other digestive issues. Zucchini is high in water. It also contains significant amounts of fiber, electrolytes and other nutrients that are necessary for a healthier digestive system. Regular consumption of zucchini can also prevent ulcers, IBS and colon cancer.

How Much Salt?

2.     Slows down aging

Aging results from the activity of toxins, free radicals and inflammation that the body is exposed to over the years. These poisons and inflammation can be reduced by antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods. Zucchini is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients which help to rid the body of free radicals and excess inflammation. A popular health benefit of zucchini!

3.     Lowers blood sugar levels

High blood sugar levels and diabetes are problems that are worsened by a diet high in carbohydrates and low in fiber. By including zucchini in your diet, you increase the intake of fiber. You can also reduce your carbohydrate intake because you will feel full for longer. These diet changes can help reduce your blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity. This can mean that your body no longer requires excessive amounts of insulin to process sugar. This can change your risk of developing diabetes. Studies show that including at least 30 grams of fiber in your daily diet lowers your risk of getting diabetes significantly.

4.     Supports healthy circulation and a healthy heart

Zucchini is low in fat and sodium, but high in fiber and potassium. These properties help to maintain healthy blood circulation. Low sodium and high potassium help to maintain healthy blood pressure while fiber such as the polysaccharide in zucchini lowers cholesterol levels. This combination works synergistically to maintain good circulation which is necessary for healthy blood pressure and a healthy heart, all leading to healthy living.

5.     Zucchini may improve eye health

Zucchini is a good source of health protecting antioxidants and phytonutrients including vitamin C, beta-carotene, manganese, zeaxanthin and lutein. Zeaxanthin and lutein are especially useful in maintaining and improving eye health by fighting free radicals. This reduces the risk of developing age-related eye conditions like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration. You can also use zucchini to treat puffy eyes by placing slices of raw zucchini over the eyes. Leave the slices in place for about 30 minutes and repeat several times in a day.  Best Foods for Great Vision

6.     Zucchini boosts energy

Because zucchini is a rich source of B-vitamins, especially folate, riboflavin and B6, it can help to boost energy production in the body; this reduces fatigue and improves moods. The body requires B-vitamins for protein and carbohydrate metabolism. The vitamins also aid in various brain functions including cognition; a great way to a healthy lifestyle.

This favorite food will help boost energy

7.     Zucchini aids in weight loss

Because zucchini is low in calories and high in water and fiber, it is a great food for those wishing to reduce their body weight. It is worth to note that excess body weight usually results from regular consumption of carbohydrate and sugary foods. By including zucchini in your diet, you increase the fiber and water content of your food. This means that you will feel full for longer and end up eating less. In the long term, you will lose some of your excess weight.

8.     Improved thyroid and adrenal functions

Zucchini contains high amounts of vitamin C and polyphenols, especially in the peels. Laboratory studies on rats by the Devi University found that the compounds in zucchini peels have positive effects on the thyroid and adrenal glands. Additionally, the compounds helped in the regulating insulin levels.

9.     Protects against oxidation and inflammation

Zucchini is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds including vitamins A and C, glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. Large amounts of these compounds are found in zucchini skin. For this reason, you should eat the skin together with the flesh.

Eating zucchini regularly reduces oxidation and inflammation within the body. This boosts your immunity and protects against diseases associated with inflammation.

These food can help boost the immune system

Zucchini nutrition facts

Zucchini contains zero fat, is high in water and fiber. Zucchini is packed with nutrition, and contains the following highly nutritious vitamins and minerals :

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin K
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin A
• Riboflavin
• Folate
• Copper
• Phosphorus
• Thiamine
• Potassium
• ManganeseThe summer squash also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients.This makes zucchini, also known as courgette, a food rich in nutrition that you should include in your diet.

How to grow zucchini in your backyard

Zucchini grows best during the warmer months which is the reason it is also called summer squash. However, you can still grow it at other times provided it is shielded from extreme cold.  If you get your system down, zucchini plants can become extremely productive with fruits.

If you would like to grow zucchini in your backyard, here is what you need to do:

1. Prepare the growing area by digging to loosen the soil.
2. Add organic fertilizer and mix well into the soil
3. Create mounds of about 2-feet diameter, up to 10 inches high and about 4 feet apart.
4. Plant 6 seeds per mound, spacing them evenly. Cover each seed with soil no deeper than 1 inch and water them thoroughly.
5. Thereafter, water your zucchini seeds once or twice a week depending on the weather.
6. Once the seedlings emerge, wait until the healthiest are about 3 inches tall. Weed out the weaker ones, leaving two or three in each mound.
7. Continue watering as needed, aiming to get the water near the roots.
8. When your zucchini start flowering, you may need to add fertilizer to support growth of the fruits. Also water more often, especially if the weather is hot.
9. Zucchini takes about 60 days from planting to harvesting. Harvest zucchini as you need them when they are about 6 inches long. Fruits taste best at this stage. If you let them to grow for too long, they start getting woody and won’t taste too good.
10. Enjoy your home grown zucchini raw or cooked.

Tips on cooking:

Slice your zucchini in cross-sections, like small steaks, then apply a thin coating of olive or avocado oil, then sprinkle your favorite seasoning, like Lawry’s, then grill on the BBQ for 7 minutes on each side.  Or, if you tolerate dairy well, then make a pizza out of your zucchini by adding a big slice of tomato on top, then a layer of your favorite cheese, then bake in the oven at 350 F for 15 minutes.

References

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17846978

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19276533

The post Health Benefits of Zucchini appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

Covid

As of this writing, the Covid plague of 2020/21 has infected 75 million people worldwide with 1.6 million deaths, or 0.02% of global population.  The Center for Disease Control admitted that 94% of the USA “victims” of Covid actually had an average of 3 comorbidities, i.e. heart disease, cancer, diabetes, COPD, etc.  So only 6% of that death rate is actually due to Covid.

The media hails the arrival of the Covid vaccine as if the cavalry is coming to rescue the settlers.  In fact, the pre-vaccine recovery rate from Covid is 99.7%.  The lockdowns imposed were unconstitutional, unwarranted, and unprecedented.  Harvard researchers find that 50% of children who were forced to stay home in front of a computer monitor for the past 8 months are now suffering depression and suicide.  The Great Barrington Declaration has 39,000 physicians and 13,000 scientists worldwide agreeing that the lockdown has created astronomical financial and emotional hardships for billions of people.  Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford experts agree “Keeping students out of school is a grave injustice.”

Vitamins Good for the Immune System

Meanwhile, extremely effective nutrition therapies exist to treat Covid, including vitamin D, zinc, iodine, vitamin A, magnesium, and potassium.  Essentially, Covid has picked off the elderly who are infirmed and malnourished.  Hydroxychloroquine is a safe and effective medicine for Covid.  The cost of Covid has been bearable.  The cost of the Covid lockdown has been unbearable for millions in the USA.

As we age the immune system weakens in many people (aka immune senescence), which is why the vast majority of cancer patients and COVID victims are older.  The state of Pennsylvania found the average age of COVID victims to be 80, with 2/3 occurring in nursing homes.  Underlying conditions of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, medications all increase risk factors for COVID mortality.  Both COVID and cancer strike the weakened immune systems.  In a surprise to the aggressive vaccination community, the flu vaccine increased the risk for COVID infection by 36%.  The purpose of this newsletter is to get your immune system up to the challenge of reversing your cancer.

Essential Vitamins to Help the Immune System

There is an abundance of scientific documentation linking nutrient intake with immune quality and quantity.  This is a very crucial issue for the cancer patient.

Many nutrients taken orally can provide pharmacological changes in immune function in humans.  Protein, arginine, glutamine, omega-6 and omega-3 fats, iron, zinc, vitamins E, C, and A have all been proven to modulate immune functions.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A deficiency causes reduced immune response while beta-carotene supplements stimulate immune responses.  Vitamin A (retinol) improves immune response to fungal infections.  In developing countries, vitamin A deficiency causes the blindness of 250,000 to 500,000 children annually.  Oral doses of vitamin A at 200,000 iu (40 times the Recommended Daily Allowance) lowered measles mortality by 80% in children in developing countries with no side effects.  Vitamin A and synthetic derivatives have been used worldwide to treat and prevent various cancers.

Vitamin B-6

Vitamin B-6 has been used to prevent and treat cancer and as a blood marker that determines outcome in cancer treatment. B-6 supplements (50 mg/day) provided a measurable improvement in immune functions (T3 and T4 lymphocytes) for 11 healthy, well-fed older adults.

Various B vitamins have been linked to the proper functioning of antibody response and cellular immunity.

Folate

Folate deficiency decreases mitogenesis, or the normal division of cells.  Folate deficiency increases the risk for various cancers.

Vitamin C

Deficiency of vitamin C impairs phagocyte functions (immune cells that gobble invaders) and cellular immunity.  Intravenous vitamin C is a viable cancer treatment option.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E deficiency decreases antibody response to T-dependent antigens, all of which gets worse with the addition of a selenium deficiency.  Vitamin E succinate is a viable cancer treatment agent.

Iron

While iron deficiency can blunt immune functions, iron excess can increase the risk for cancer.  Iron presents an interesting case: 1)  because it is one of the most common nutritional deficiency problem worldwide, 2)  because low levels of iron will depress the immune system, and 3) because high levels of iron will stimulate both bacterial and tumor growth.  Iron intake needs to be well regulated…not too much, and not too little.

Zinc for the Immune System

Zinc exerts a major influence on the immune system.  Lymphocyte function is seriously depressed, and lymphoid tissues undergo general atrophy in zinc-deficient individuals.  The lymphocytes in zinc-deficient animals quickly lose their killing abilities (cytotoxicity) and engulfing talents (phagocytosis) for tumor cells and bacteria.  Natural killer cell and neutrophil activity is also reduced.  Zinc has become a proven therapeutic agent in treating advanced COVID patients.

Health Benefits of Zinc in Your Diet

Copper Can Boost a Depressed Immune System

Copper plays a key role in the production of superoxide dismutase and cytochrome systems in the mitochondria.  Hence, a deficiency of copper is manifested in a depressed immune system, specifically reduced microbicidal activity of granulocytes.

Selenium with Vitamin E

Selenium works in conjunction with vitamin E to shield host cells from lipid peroxidation.  Humoral immune response is depressed in selenium deficient animals.  Selenium and vitamin E deficiencies lead to increased incidence of enteric (intestinal) lesions.  Lymphocyte proliferation (making more warriors) is reduced in selenium deficiency.  The theory is that selenium and vitamin E help to provide the host immune cells with some type of “bullet-proof plating” against the toxins used on foreign cells.  Hence, one immune body can live on to destroy many invaders if enough vitamin E and selenium allow for these critical chemical shields.

Magnesium

In magnesium deficiency, all immunoglobulins (except IgE) are reduced, along with the number of antibody forming cells.  Magnesium is crucial for lymphocyte growth (involvement in protein metabolism) and transformation in response to mitogens.  Prolonged magnesium deficiency in animals leads to the development of lymphomas and leukemia.

Magnesium Deficiencies and How to Resolve Them

Iodine

Iodine plays an important role in the microbicidal activity of polymorphonuclear leukocytes.  Activated neutrophils may use the conversion of iodide to iodine to generate free radicals for killing foreign invaders.  Iodine is one of the more common deficiencies worldwide.  Iodine has the unusual role in nature of being essential to humans and lethal to most microbes, but not your friendly gut microbes.

Boron

Boron prevents osteoporosis, yet is still not considered an essential mineral in human nutrition.  Boron deficiency in soil is a worldwide problem with boron soil amendments dramatically enhancing plant growth.  Boron has shown activity in preventing and reversing cancer.  In a human study, the more boron in the diet, the lower the risk for prostate cancer.

Toxic Trace Minerals

Toxic trace minerals, like mercury, cadmium, arsenic, and lead all blunt the immune system.

The quality and quantity of fat in the diet play a major role in dictating the health of the immune system.  Since fat directly affects prostaglandin pathways, and prostaglandins (depending on the pathway) can either depress or enhance immune function, fat intake is crucial in encouraging a healthy immune system.

There are many foods and supplements that can have a favorable impact on the immune system.  Beating Cancer with Nutrition is dedicated to reinforcing your immune system to recognize and destroy your cancer using nutrition as a key modality.

Your Health, Vitality and Longevity

Your health, vitality, longevity, and ability to prevent and reverse cancer or infections is directly tied to the ability of your immune system to recognize “self” from “non-self”, which is heavily dependent on your nutritional status.

What to Eat to Help the Immune System?

Follow a plant based diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, mushrooms, medicinal spices and seaweed with a sprinkling of animal based foods, such as grass fed meat, wild caught fish, free range chicken and eggs, yogurt, and cheese.  Avoid junk food.  If it will not rot or sprout, then throw the food out.  If you can’t read the label on the package then don’t buy it.

Take supplements in reasonable dosages.  Due to poor food selections, stress, soils depleted of essential minerals, drugs and alcohol, many people are deficient in many nutrients.  Consider ImmunoPower Gold as a “one stop shopping” supplement in pure powder form for those who cannot or will not take pills.

Feed your immune system with the appropriate quantity and quality of precursor nutrients and your cabin in the woods will become a fortress against cancer and disease. Nutrients and vitamins can be very beneficial and help the immune system.

Excerpted from Beating Cancer with Nutrition

The post Vitamins to Help the Immune System appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

And drugs are often the best therapeutic choice, especially for pain management.  88% of Americans suffer from a metabolic disease, including heart disease, cancer, autoimmune, liver or kidney disease, etc.  For many metabolic diseases, lifestyle medicine, including the once banned “alternative therapies” become the most rational and effective therapies.

Fortunately, mass appeal and common sense has allowed the survival of these “alternative therapies”, more appropriately labeled: integrative, rational, holistic, lifestyle, complementary, functional.

Today we generally consider alternative medicine as a practice that has evolved with indigenous people and later accepted by others, largely as a result of emigration. We consider methods utilized in the western world and developed over the past couple hundred years as western medicine.

What is Alternative Medicine

Alternative medicine is also referred to as “integrative” or “complementary” medicine and are often used to describe medical practices used in the western world that are an alternative to western-based medical methods.

Alternative medicine therapies are based on the all-inclusive approach, covering the mind, body and emotional well-being of the individual. A number of healing techniques are incorporated into this type of medicine. Doctors are now more aware and more willing to advise patients of the benefits of alternative therapies and are now recommending therapies such as nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, energy healing and others.

According to a study in the International Journal of Health Sciences, complimentary medicine refers to therapies that complement traditional western (allopathic) medicine and alternative medicine refers to approaches taken in place of traditional medicine. Integrative medicine refers to combining complementary treatments with convention care. The basic philosophy of complementary and alternative medicine include holistic are, which focuses on treatment a human being as a whole person.

Complimentary and Alternative Medicine

We have an extensive network of protective factors that circulate throughout our bodies to kill any bacteria, virus, yeast or cancer cells and fall under the umbrella of alternative therapies.  Think of these 20 trillion immune cells as both your Department of Defense and your waste disposal company. Cells in your body are duplicating all day every day at a blinding pace.  This process of growth is fraught with peril.  When cells are not copied exactly as they should be, then an emergency call goes out to the immune system to find and destroy this abnormal saboteur cell.  This process occurs frequently in most people throughout their lives.

Nearly half, or 42% of Americans can expect to develop cancer in their lifetime, yet most experts agree that everyone gets cancer about 6 times per lifetime.  Same with infections.  We are constantly bombarded with pathogens from our air, food, and water; yet it is the surveillance of an alert and capable immune system that defends most of us from cancer, infections, and premature aging.

What are Some Examples of Alternative Medicine?

Nutrition

There are many reasons why nutrition should be considered front line therapy:

1) Basic Nutrition

You are what you eat. Your body is composed of nutrients consumed over your lifetime. Your body is built from, repaired by, regulated by, and fueled by the nutrients in your diet. There are basic macronutrients (protein, carbohydrate, fat, fiber, water) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) that are taught in all approved nutrition courses around the world. But there is more to nutrition than this basic need.

2) Beyond Nutritional Deficiencies

While 10 mg/day of vitamin C will prevent scurvy in most adults, 90 mg/day will lower the risk for various cancers by 50%, and 1000 mg/day will help to reduce bleeding and bruising in older adults. Beyond deficiencies demonstrates that many nutrients take on meta-nutrient functions when provided at beyond survival dosages. Bruce Ames, PhD at the University of California Berkeley has shown that long term low intake of various nutrients creates fragile DNA, which eventually leads to cancer and/or premature aging. There is a huge difference between surviving and thriving financially, emotionally, physically, and nutritionally.

3) Quasi Nutrients

There are conditionally essential nutrients found throughout our food supply that are not considered essential for survival but have been shown to be incredibly useful at preventing or reversing common ailments. Coenzyme Q, lipoic acid, EPA and DHA from fish oil, sulforaphane and DIM from broccoli,

Bioflavonoids and carotenoids in abundance from fresh fruits and vegetables, ellagic acid in dark berries, lycopenes in tomatoes. And on it goes. In order to survive long enough to have two children and keep your DNA in the gene pool, you can eat almost anything that keeps you alive. If you want to thrive beyond those 20 years, then you need to be more cautious about your nutrient intake.

4) Herbal Nutrition

Herbal remedies are considered gentle on the system, effective to a large extent and without the potentially damaging side effects caused by prescriptions. For example, herbs such as sarsaparilla are used to detoxify the blood and cleanse it. Herbs such as yarrow maybe used as an anti-inflammatory for muscle and joint pain. Natural ingredients such as turmeric are used to treat the symptoms of autoimmune disorders and is widely accepted in helping getting healthier after cancer treatment.

Scientists have proven beyond argument that medicinal spices could become front line therapies in the near future. Use these spices often liberally. For more details on the efficacy of these spices, see HEALING SPICES by Bharat B. Aggarwal, PhD.

5) Intermittent Fasting

There is abundant data showing the mental and physical benefits of intermittent fasting. For 2 million years of adaptation, humans faced chronic food scarcity. These cave dwellers were physically fit enough to catch and kill an animal or the human died. They consumed abundant plant food with naturally occurring pesticides that eventually became protective against aging and cancer. We now eat too much and too often. We are obese and unfit, and avoid any food that does not taste like ice cream or soda. And that lifestyle is killing advanced civilizations by the millions.

Intermittent fasting has been shown to lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease, cognitive decline, and increase lifespan. Intermittent fasting gives the digestive tract a break, allowing for regeneration of cells. IF offers a wealth of benefits with zero cost.

Mind-body Harmony

Many ancient cultures assumed that the mind exerts powerful influences on bodily functions and vice versa. Attempts to reassert proper harmony between these bodily systems led to the development of mind-body medicine, an array of approaches that incorporate spiritual, meditative, and relaxation techniques.

Meditation

Alternative systems of medicine often utilize multiple approaches. For example, traditional Chinese medicine incorporates acupuncture, herbal medicines, special diets, and meditative exercises such as tai chi. An eight week study conducted by Harvard researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) determined that meditation literally rebuilds the brains grey matter in just eight weeks. It’s the very first study to document that meditation produces changes over time in the brain’s grey matter. (1)

Creative Visualization

Picture your body the way you want it to be. Crowd out the disease with visions of health. Focus on that image for at least 30 minutes daily. Feel the feelings of being healthy, alive, alert, vibrant, and eager to address each new day. Since your mind is working all the time anyway, you might as well direct your mind toward thoughts of peace and healing as opposed to “awefulizing” about today and tomorrow.

Body-Based Approaches

Chiropractic

This includes methods such as massage which have long been recognized in certain cultures. In the 19th century, additional formal manipulative disciplines emerged in the United States: this includes chiropractic and osteopathic medicine which are widely accepted in the alternative medicine world. Both these approaches attempt to relieve structural forces on vertebrae and spinal nerve roots. This relief can help release stresses that are possibly evoking a panoply of illnesses beyond mere musculoskeletal pain.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used in Asian cultures for centuries as they believed that good health depends on the balance and flow of energy throughout the body. The ancient Greeks believed that health requires a balance of vital humors. Acupuncture, replaces vital energy flow by placing needles at critical body points.

Results from a number of studies suggest that acupuncture may help ease types of pain that are often chronic such as low-back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis/knee pain. It also may help reduce the frequency of tension headaches and prevent migraine headaches. (3)

Reiki

The Reiki is an energy healing approach that originated in Japan and Tibet. Reiki involves the use of energy—either biofield- or bioelectromagnetic-based interventions. Reiki aims to realign and strengthen healthful energies through the intervention of energies radiating from the hands of a master healer. The practitioner does not use their own energy but serves as a channel and directs the energy towards the receiver. Reiki can bring overall balance to the body.

Light Energy

Some therapists use light therapy to heal. There are over 50,000 peer reviewed articles on the therapeutic application of laser therapy, as encapsulated in the academically affiliated textbook by Harvard professor Michael Hamblin in PHOTOBIOMODULATION. Since sunlight is the beginning of life on earth
via photosynthesis, it seems obvious that there is healing potential in selective use of the light spectrum. Babies born with jaundice are exposed to a particular light therapy that induces oxidation of the bilirubin, thus curing the jaundice.

Homeopathy

Allopathic medicine is based on concentration of active ingredients. Homeopathy takes the exact opposite approach, the more you dilute the substance, the more potent it becomes. These two sciences cannot peacefully co-exist, until you bring in the science of energy medicine. Homeopathic preparations have nothing more than the “fingerprint” of the original atom or molecule, which is why they work. Energy medicine with no toxicity.

Lifestyle Factors for Improved Wellness

Lifestyle factors effecting health vary in strength and direction.  For instance, a small plane flying at 100 miles per hour north into a head wind at 120 mph has a ground speed of -20 mph.  Progress is seriously impaired by the opposing force of the wind.

All lifestyle factors are vectors which either move you toward illness or wellness.  Consider the person who is smoking (-80 mph), eats a low fat diet (+60 mph), takes vitamin supplements (+40 mph), has a stressful attitude (-100 mph), and eats a high sugar diet (-80).  The overwhelming direction for this person is toward illness, even though he or she is doing some things right.  Health is a sum total of vectors.  For optimal health, take a look at alternative medicine and get all lifestyle factors heading in a favorable direction.

Why Broccoli Sprouts Can Fight Cancer

Alternative Medicine to Fight Disease

Disease and illnesses arise when the body’s immune system revolts against body tissues or results in changes to an organ’s regular functions, causing a range of terrible symptoms and in extreme cases resulting in death. Over 80 autoimmune illnesses have been found that commonly affect the blood cells, blood vessels, thyroid, pancreas, joints, muscles, connective tissues and skin. Many illnesses exhibit similar symptoms such as inflammation, sleep disorders, digestion problems, headaches, depression, fatigue, joint and muscle pain and fevers.

While there are not many known cures for various diseases, natural remedies have proven to be effective in helping to soothe and in some cases restore the natural balance of an over-active immune system. Natural anti-inflammatories can work to repair and restore a body’s self-healing mechanism.

Why Alternative Medicine is Better?

What if meditation could reverse mild to moderate depression, anxiety, and insomnia without medication? What if intermittent fasting could reverse most cases of type 2 diabetes and obesity? What if a couple thousand dollars invested in lifestyle reprogramming could prevent the need for patients institutionalized with stroke or heart disease? What if improved nutrition could prevent and reverse many common ailments? What if a healthy lifestyle could prevent and reverse most degenerative diseases. These are not hypothetical dreams for the future. These are therapies awaiting you right now. They work. They have little or no side effects. They are dramatically cheaper than drugs and surgeries. Let the future of health care begin.

(as excerpted from 12 Keys to a Healthier Cancer Patient)

https://www.nih.gov/

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According to Charles Mueller, clinical assistant professor of nutrition at New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development, “Cocoa beans are not unlike red peppers, green peppers and broccoli and stuff like that. They are full of phytochemicals that are good for you.”

Dark chocolate can help in lowering your Body Mass Index (a measure of obesity) through the following mechanisms:

Reduce Sugar Spikes With Dark Chocolate

Cacao rich, dark chocolate is more like a whole food, which supplies carbohydrate, protein, fiber and heart-healthy fat to your body. The nutritional composition (fats, fiber, and protein) and antioxidants content of cacao has an influence on your body’s metabolism. So, when you eat dark chocolate it reduces digestion and absorption of fats and carbohydrates, and in turn lowers chances of sugar spikes inside your body. As a result you experience a feeling of fullness for longer period of time and lesser food cravings for unhealthy (sweet, salty or fatty) snack foods between meals.  

Foods to improve eye health

Food contains known essential vitamins, minerals, and “sub-nutrients” along with some very intriguing conditionally essential nutrients (like lycopenes and ellagic acid) that can bring us beyond surviving a life of chronic illness into thriving with optimal health and vitality.

Dark Chocolate Helps Controls Appetite

Ghrelin is a hormone produced inside your body to increase your appetite. Even the smell of dark chocolate can cause a reduction in ghrelin.

Some studies suggest cacao has monoamine oxidase enzyme inhibitors (MAO) and coumarin that work as appetite suppressants. Dark chocolate also contains saturated fat but those are not bad for you. In fact, you need healthy fats when you are trying to lose weight, as these keep you full for longer and help in controlling your appetite.

Better Regulation of Blood Glucose

When blood sugar rises inside your body, pancreas secretes insulin to escort extra blood glucose into the fat cells. However, repeated release of insulin due to consumption of high carbohydrate and sugary diet can cause insulin resistance in your cells. Insulin-resistance make people lose the ability to feel full, as these nutrition deprived cells keep on sending signals to get more food.

Additionally, high insulin levels in the blood also turn off the fat-burning mechanisms of your body, which also leads to weight gain. Various nutrients found in cacao significantly increase the insulin sensitivity of your cells. So, when you eat dark chocolate it reduces serum insulin levels and helps in better regulation of your blood glucose levels.

Dark Chocolate May Reduce Emotional Overeating

On psychological level when people feel stressed their body triggers release of cortisol. This hormone causes their body to secrete more insulin, which leads to overeating and a tendency to increase abdominal fat. Cacao has antioxidants polyphenols and other chemicals (phenylethylamine (PEA), anandamide and theobromine) that boost your mood naturally by stimulating your brain to release natural pain and stress relieving chemicals. This feeling of euphoria promotes an overall sense of well-being and alleviates depression.

It’s heartening to know that a moderate amount of dark chocolate can be very healthy for you!

Consistent consumption of moderate amount of dark chocolate also found helpful in reducing excretion of cortisol. So, when you eat dark chocolate you feel more peaceful and contended, which in turn reduce your chances to seek and eat unhealthy (sweet, salty or fatty) comfort foods.

A study in the Journal of Proteome Research looked at the effects of eating 1.4 ounces (40 grams) of dark chocolate every day for two weeks on blood and urine measures of stress in 30 healthy adults. The results showed that eating dark chocolate daily reduced stress hormone levels in those who had high anxiety levels.

Dark Chocolate Stimulates the Mind and Body

Studies show that dark chocolate also have a stimulating effect on your body that makes you more likely to move and burn more calories in the process.

Lower Body Mass Index (BMI)

Research has also shown that people who regularly consume dark chocolate tend to be slimmer. In one study when a Pennsylvania State University researcher looked at the diet, calorie intake and body mass index (BMI) of healthy adult women and men of all ages, people who ate dark chocolate a few times per week were, on average, had lower BMI than those who ate it occasionally. This study suggests that chocolate contains antioxidant compounds especially catechins that have metabolism-boosting benefits. So, when you eat dark chocolate these compounds help you improve your lean muscle mass and favor weight loss rather than fat synthesis.

In another study researchers have found a group of compounds called oligomeric procyanidins (PCs) in dark chocolate that is most effective for preventing weight gain and obesity. In this study mice, who were fed oligomeric PCs had the lowest fat mass, lowest body weight and were least likely to develop impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, despite eating a high-fat diet.

Nutrient Deficiency or Disease?

Other Reasons Why Dark Chocolate Should be in Your Diet

Dark chocolate is a good addition to your healthy diet plan to lose weight.  “Eat dark chocolate, not white chocolate,” says researcher Mee Young Hong, PhD, associate professor at San Diego State University. She compared dark and white chocolate, looking at health effects, such as improving cholesterol. Dark chocolate was the clear winner, she says.

Exposure to pollution, unhealthy foods and stress release free radical activity inside your body which can cause serious damage in the form of premature aging and chronic degenerative diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Cocoa in dark chocolate has one of the highest levels of polyphenols that exhibit excellent antioxidant capacity to cease this free radical damage.

These antioxidants in dark chocolate help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by reducing inflammation and plaque formation in the arteries, improving circulation and blood flow to the heart and lowering of blood pressure. Antioxidants in dark chocolate also helps in promoting healthy heart and brain function, slowing down the effects of aging on your skin, improving your vision and may aid in cancer prevention.

So, don’t feel guilty when you indulge in your cravings for this delicious treat. However, moderation is the key to improving and maintain health and receiving the maximum health benefit from dark chocolate. Stick to dark chocolate that contains at least 70 percent cacao and consume it in moderation (an ounce) three days a week and beware of the sugar.

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Attitude, Meditation, Community ….

Stress, loneliness, hate, revenge, fear, and a sense of being overwhelmed generate a mind filled with depression and anxiety.  “You cannot be grateful and unhappy at the same time.”  Start each day with a sense of appreciation for what you do have, not focusing on what you don’t have.  Spend at least 15 minutes daily in meditation.  Still the mind.  Focus on a word or phrase that brings you peace.  Forgive others.  Let the Universe take care of their punishment.  Give away your time and money to those in need.  Altruistic people and volunteers live longer and healthier lives.  Maintain social connections.  Stay involved with your community, friends, and family.

Foods to Fight Bad Breath

What Affects Cognitive Function?

Nutrition

You are what you eat.  The mind is a blatant scoreboard for your nutrient intake.  A deficiency of nearly any nutrient can eventually lead to mental problems.  For example, studies show that up to 20% of dementia in the elderly is strictly due to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and/or folate.  Lithium and magnesium are key minerals in protecting and nourishing the brain.  Fish oil feeds the brain with critical fatty acids for mental health.  A Harvard psychiatrist authored a book on fish oil in mental health as being front line therapy for depression, anxiety, and dementia.

Obesity

Obesity increases the risk for depression and Alzheimer’s while intermittent fasting lowers the risk for cognitive decline.  Developed nations eat too much, too often and the wrong foods.  While the average person consumes 152 pounds of sugar each year, that sugar ends up “cooking” the brain through advanced glycation end products.

Medications

Alcohol abuse is directly linked to depression and Alzheimer’s.  Modest consumption of red wine, green tea, coffee, and dark chocolate can protect and enhance brain functions.  Many prescription drugs (such as statins for cholesterol, hypertensive meds, anti-anxiety, Parkinson’s drugs, anti-seizure, sleeping aids, anti-depressants) can cause memory loss.

Toxins

The modern world has dumped a plethora of toxins into our air, food, and water.  Add in the giant experiment of massive amounts of electro-magnetic “smog” from wifi, radio, microwave, cell phones and towers and you have the making of disturbing the brain’s ability to function.  Toxic metals; such as lead, mercury, aluminum, and arsenic; can drastically alter the brain’s ability to function.

How to Improve Cognitive Function

Nutrition Supplements Can Enhance Cognitive Performance

There are numerous supplements, from essential vitamins and minerals to obscure precursors of brain chemicals, that can enhance cognitive performance.  Acetyl L carnitine, L glutamine, L pyroglutamic acid, DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol), ashwaganda, blueberry, ginkgo, ginseng, vinpocetine, lithium, phosphatidylserine are among the leaders in this enticing field of nootropics.  The risk to benefit to cost ratio is highly in favor of experimenting with these inexpensive supplements.

Exercise and Activity for Improved Brain Function

Activity not only supports the body but also the mind.  Active people have enhanced circulation to the brain which protects the brain from oxygen deficiency.  Schedule 30 minutes daily of some form of exercise: swimming, walking, dancing, biking, cardio, etc.  Ballroom dancing has been shown to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s by 73%.  There is no downside here.

Deep Sleep Restores Brain Function

Deep restorative sleep is rare in the developed world.  Too many people get too little sleep, stay up too late, and awake exhausted.  Sleep is crucial to rebuild the brain at night.

Use it or lose it

There are about 100 billion nerve cells in the human brain, each cell connected (synapse) to a thousand other cells, making roughly 100 trillion junctions that may be responsible for memory.  Then there are the glial cells that do not conduct electricity, but are the maintenance crew in the brain and charged with eliminating unused neuron junctions.  An army of brilliant neuroscientists have spent the last half century analyzing the weaknesses and potential of the human brain.  Exotic research shows that you must “use it or lose it”.  The glial cells roam around the brain and take out unused junctions.  Hence, the need to keep the brain active through work, play, dance, reading, games, travel, and more.

Vitamins to Help the Immune System

Cognitive Function Can Be Restored

For decades, scientists and physicians told us that the human brain begins to lose cells and mental capacity around age 40.  That Alzheimer’s disease is irreversible.  We now have evidence to the contrary on both of these axioms.  The plasticity of the human brain is remarkable.  We can continue to have substantial mental abilities well into our senior years.  Alzheimer’s disease is reversible.  Respect your brain.  You need it.  Treat it with the support ideas listed above and you will have a razor sharp mind instead of cognitive decline.

The post How to Improve Cognitive Function appeared first on ImmunoPower Nutrition.

Medicinal use of apple cider vinegar can be traced back to Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, who used it to treat wounds. In the 10th century, Sung Tse, the founder of forensic medicine, recommended use of apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, together with sulfur to protect from infection when conducting autopsies. In recent times, popularity of ACV has been on the rise. [1]

Origins of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is made by fermenting apples for several weeks or months. The sugar in apples is first fermented to alcohol and later to acetic acid, the main active ingredient in apple cider vinegar. During the second phase of fermentation, acetic acid bacteria, also known as acetobacter and some beneficial yeast grow in numbers and accumulate to form a non-toxic layer of slime on the surface of the vinegar. This layer of slime is called mother due to its richness in nutrients and health benefits.

In ACV, we find the concentrated essence of the best of apples coupled with limitless by-products of bacterial fermentation, including acetic acid. Vinegar was probably first discovered over 10,000 years ago, when our ancient ancestors found that some foods  ferment into alcohol, with the next fermentation step creating vinegar. Vinegar was first mentioned for its medicinal value in Babylonia around 7000 years ago.

Vinegar holds a rich place in history and is mentioned often throughout the Bible. It has been said that God is always trying to make vinegar and it’s the winemaker’s job to interrupt the process at wine.

How Acidic is Apple Cider Vinegar

The word acid is derived from acetum (Latin, “vinegar”). Bases were substances that were usually soapy to the touch and that could react with acids in water to form neutral salts. Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, one is a common base or alkaline agent in your kitchen. Vinegar or lemon juice is a common acid used in the kitchen.

Easy herbal medicines to improve your health

pH (potential hydrogen atoms) ranges from one to 14. One is a very strong acid. 14 is a very strong base. Water is neutral at pH 7. Human blood is slightly acidic at 7.41. Vinegar is a strongly acidic solution with a pH of around two, which is why Cleopatra was able to dissolve a pearl in glass of vinegar. I have not tried this experiment.

What Can Apple Cider Vinegar Do

Several studies in animals and humans have found that acetic acid and apple cider vinegar may promote fat burning and weight loss, decrease blood sugar levels, increase insulin sensitivity, and improve cholesterol levels externally for all kinds of cosmetic and disinfectant purposes, and can be used in so many jobs around the house that it merits the name: “panacea”.

What is in Apple Cider Vinegar

A substance known as ‘the mother’ (or vinegar mother) forms during the vinegar-making process. The vinegar mother is made up of proteins, enzymes and ‘good’ bacteria – all things good for you. It may look like strands or cobwebs in the vinegar or it may be like a gelatinous blob. This gives ACV its cloudy-brown appearance. ‘The mother’ can be used to kick-start further batches of ACV because it triggers the fermentation process. ‘The mother’ is recognized as being the primary substance that’s responsible for the health benefits of apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar is filled with many nutritional elements. While not high in vitamins or minerals good quality products contain additional amino acids and antioxidants.

• Pectin
• Vitamins B1, B2, B6
• Biotin
• Folic Acid
• Niacin
• Panthonthenic acid
• Vitamin C
• Potassium
• Calcium
• Polyphenol
• Amino Acids

How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Work?

The very important but confusing aspect of eating an acidic food, like vinegar or lemon juice, is that it creates an alkaline environment in the body. What happens is the acid gets to the small intestines, where the pancreas detects acid in the gut, then releases a bicarbonate buffer into the bloodstream. The bloodstream of a healthy adult has a pH which is mildly alkaline, about 7.41.

Benefits of “Post Biotics”

Take milk as the “prebiotic”. Add lactobacillus as the “probiotic”. The the resulting fermented milk is yogurt, which is rich in metabolic byproducts of fermentation, aka “post biotics”. Same thing happens with cabbage to sauerkraut. Same thing happens when we eat plant fiber, aka resistant starches, and feed our friendly bacteria in the gut, who then produce a bewildering array of useful/essential post biotics, such as butyrate and hydrogen.

Unpasteurized vinegar not only contains these post biotics in abundance, but a rich assortment of probiotics, primarily concentrated in the “mother”. All of which is good for the gut, digestion, the microbiome, blood glucose, and metabolic pH. Remember “death begins in the gut”. Keep your gut healthy as a frontline defense against diseases and premature aging.

Gut Microbiome For Better Health

Science backed benefits of apple cider vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar is becoming increasing popular as a home remedy and a one-stop medicinal aid. There are many reasons to include it in your daily routine and research shows ACV has many healthful properties.

Known for its ability to control blood sugar

One of the most studied benefits of ACV is its ability to regulate blood sugars for both diabetics and those without diabetes. Some researchers believe that high blood sugar levels are a major cause of aging and chronic disease. A recent study showed vinegar consumption to have a glucose-lowering effect in patients with glucose abnormalities. A mixture of vinegar and olive oil is a common salad dressing used in the Mediterranean diet. The main constituent of vinegar is acetic acid, which gives vinegar its characteristic taste and smell. The consumption of vinegar with meals was used as a folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes before any pharmacologic glucose-lowering therapy [1, 2] Additionally, vinegar ingestion at bedtime has been shown to decrease fasting glucose levels in humans with type 2 diabetes. Apple cider vinegar helps to stabilize blood sugar levels. It also reduces the glycemic index of food. It has been suggested that ACV works similarly to metformin, a drug used by diabetics to control blood sugar level. But because apple cider vinegar is more of a food than a drug, it doesn’t pose the side effects posed by drugs like metformin. [4]According to this study [5], taking two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar at bedtime can reduce fasting glucose levels by 4-6 percent.

This study [6] found that eating breakfast containing vinegar can decrease blood glucose levels by up to 55 percent.

May reduce blood pressure

A study in 2001 found that the acetic acid itself, the main component of vinegar, significantly reduced both blood pressure and renin activity compared to controls given no acetic acid or vinegar. The same study reported a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (approximately 20 mm Hg) in spontaneously hypertensive (SHR) rats fed a standard laboratory diet mixed with either vinegar or an acetic acid solution as compared with SHR rats fed the same diet mixed with deionized water.

Anti-tumor activity

One of the less known benefits of apple cider vinegar is its potential in fighting cancer. According to a number of studies, consumption of apple cider vinegar could help in the prevention and treatment for cancer.

This study [2] found that acetic acid, the main ingredient in apple cider vinegar, kills stomach cancer cells. While the study involved the application of acetic acid to stomach cancer cells in test tubes, the study seriously suggests that apple cider vinegar has potential as a treatment for some types of stomach cancers.

Additionally, there are other studies that suggest that consumption of vinegar could offer some level of prevention from esophageal cancer [3]

At 40 days post-inoculation, vinegar-fed mice in both experimental groups had significantly smaller tumor volumes when compared with their control counterparts. Vinegars are also a dietary source of polyphenols, compounds synthesized by plants to defend against oxidative stress. Ingestion of polyphenols in humans enhances in vivo antioxidant protection and reduces cancer risk.

It is worth to note that cancerous cells produce lactic acid as they grow. It is also worth noting that the ideal blood pH ranges between 7.35 – 7.45. Deviation from this pH range can negatively impact many functions in the body. In general, the body has mechanisms to tightly control blood pH. Actually, some acid foods, like lemon juice and vinegar, have an “alkaline tide” from their potassium content that helps to stabilize blood pH.

Kills harmful bacteria

Vinegar can help kill pathogens, including bacteria. Vinegar is a food preservative and can inhibit E. coli in foods. ACV has a history of use as a disinfectant.

Supports the immune function

Apple cider vinegar has powerful detoxifying properties including liver detoxification and toning the lymphatic system. Additionally, ACV is rich in antioxidants which help reduce free radicals in the body and ultimately reduce oxidative stress. Detoxification and reduction in free radicals help to improve homeostatic balance. [7, 8]

Studies have also shown that ACV is antimicrobial. This means that ACV can be a healthier alternative to chemical medications. And because it is a food product, it can help keep away various microbes and therefore minimize infections. For instance, ACV can kill mycobacterium tuberculosis which is otherwise resistant to most disinfectants. [9]

ACV can therefore support the immune function by preventing various infections. This is especially helpful in people with compromised immunity.

Helps to reduce weight

Regular consumption of apple cider vinegar can help in losing excess weight. ACV is believed to work by regulating appetite and satiety. [10]

According to a number of studies [11, 12, 13] ACV interferes with the working of some enzymes involved in synthesis of carbohydrates and thereby controls blood glucose levels. ACV also helps the liver to better deal with lipogenesis and synthesis of fatty acids. This leads to healthier cholesterol levels. ACV also helps in detoxification which improves liver functions. All these play a part in supporting weight loss and overall health.

Regulates the body’s pH

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over research studied tested the efficacy of the organic apple cider vinegar on alleviation of the heartburn symptom related to Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD)

Can prevent heart disease

Studies show that apple cider vinegar can help improve cardiovascular health in a number of ways. Regular consumption of ACV helps to lower cholesterol levels in blood. This leads to a lower incidence of high blood pressure and ultimately heart disease. [14, 15, 16]

Most of the available studies have been conducted on laboratory animals. However, there are human studies that have shown that ACV can control blood sugar levels and therefore help manage diabetes. Diabetes complications can lead to high blood pressure and ultimately, heart disease. Another human study conducted on women subjects found that, eating salads containing vinegar led to a significant reduction in the risk of developing heart disease. [17]

Preserves food

Apple cider vinegar has been used successfully to preserve foods for ages. This method of food preservation is making a serious comeback. And while distilled vinegar is used in conventional home pickling, use of apple cider vinegar has been growing steadily especially with health conscious individuals. The only downside is that ACV can discolor fruits and veggies. [18]

Besides preserving food, the antimicrobial properties of ACV also come in handy when it is used to wash fruits and vegetables. Even the FDA has confirmed that vinegar, besides lemon juice, are readily available, effective household sanitizers. [19]

Reduce pain for insect bite, stinging nettle, poison ivy, jelly fish

Immediate vinegar application at the site of jellyfish stings is practiced at various coastal locations around the world because vinegar deactivates the nematocysts.

Other apple cider vinegar  benefits

While there aren’t reliable scientific studies proving it, according to folklore apple cider vinegar has many more health benefits. From various reports, ACV can help treat heartburn, dandruff, warts, relieve sore throat and cough, and soothe sunburn.

Side Effects of Apple Cider Vinegar

ACV mixed with water, juice, or another liquid is safe to drink, and it’s fine to use it on food. However, with a pH between 2.4 and 3.3, vinegar is acidic enough to erode tooth enamel, inflame the esophagus and stomach, and trigger nausea and acid reflux.

It may also interfere with some medicines, including diabetes medicines and diuretics (fluid tablets). Always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements, especially if you take regular medicines.

Should I Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar is one of the most versatile, tasty, and health additions to any kitchen. Because of its acid content, vinegar is able to tenderize, meats, add tartness to flavors, curdle milk, and preserve foods· from bacterial infection. Regular consumption and use is good, but don’t expect it to cure all ailments. Always consult with your health professional.

Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar Recipe

You can buy apple cider vinegar, but it’s also easy to make from scratch. It costs next to nothing since apple scraps are typically discarded when using apple in other recipes.

Ingredients

• Apple peelings or cores
• Sugar (1 tablespoon per one cup of water
• Filtered/Non-Chlorinated Water
• Glass jar (a quart is a great place to start, but you can definitely make larger quantities, too, in which case, use a half gallon jar.)

Directions

1. Submerge apple scraps in water and mix in a little sugar.
2. Cover jar with paper towel or coffee filter.
3. Allows to sit for 2-3 weeks.
4. After 2-3 weeks, strain. Remove apples.
5. Allow vinegar to sit at room temperature for 1 month.
6. When fermenting is complete, store vinegar in airtight container at room temperature.
7. Can keep for 6 months. May deteriorate if left longer at 6-12 months.

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1. Natural foods build a stronger immune system

Eat foods in as close to their natural state as possible.  Foods that are refined often have questionable ingredients (like food additives, salt, sugar and fat). These additives often remove valuable nutrients (like vitamins, minerals, and fiber) and always increase the cost of the food.

“Eat foods that strengthen your immune system”

Eat a wide variety of foods.  By not focusing on any particular food, you can obtain nutrients that may be essential but are poorly understood. Foods additives and preservatives are known to cause a buildup in your own body, this could be the cause of food allergies or toxicities.

2. Intermittent fasting boots the immune system

Humans adapted to regular periods of inadvertent fasting.  For millions of years, our ancestors were exposed to sessions of no food.  Our bodies adapted to need that method of eating and feasting.  Eating too much, too often, and the wrong food has become a first world problem. The “too often” is what really gets us into trouble.  By chronically exposing the cells to insulin and blood glucose, our cells become insulin resistant, which means they become “deaf” to insulin “knocking on the door” of the cell membrane.  Eating too often results in elevated insulin and blood glucose. This is the beginning of disease. The domino effect has begun and leads to many diseases and accelerated aging. Our ancestors might be without food for a few days when Nature says “you better get lean, mean, smart, and fast enough to find something to eat; or you are going to die.”  Fasting induces a remarkable regeneration, rejuvenation, detoxification, anti-inflammatory stage that restores our health.  Take one day a week and consume nothing but water. If you need to lose weight, take 2 or 3 consecutive days at week and consume nothing but water.  Have greater gaps between your last evening meal and your first morning meal, or “break fast”. While many people ask how to build their immune systems, data on intermittent fasting strongly supports that it can help build a stronger immune system.

“Remarkable regeneration, rejuvenation, detoxification, and anti-inflammatory changes happen in our body with intermittent fasting.”

You will be dazzled at what intermittent fasting can do for your health.  I was one of the 60 million prediabetic people in America, despite following a healthy lifestyle.  A few weeks of fasting one day a week and my fasting blood glucose dropped from the dangerous range of 100 to the ideal range of 67.  Try it.  If you have a medical condition, then always work with your doctor.

3. Nutrient-dense foods for your immune system

Maximize your intake of life-giving foods, including fresh vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fruit, low fat meat (turkey, fish, chicken) and clean water.  Hormone free dairy products, especially yogurt, can be valuable if you do not have milk allergies or lactose intolerance. Dark Chocolate in Your Diet?

4. Buy quality over quantity

Quality of weight rather than quantity of weight is often overlooked.  Balance your calorie intake with expenditure so that your percentage of body fat is reasonable.  How much you weigh is not nearly as crucial as the percent of fat in the body. Most nutritionists agree that too much fat stored in the body (obesity) is a real killer.  Reducing body fast is well-documented as a method on how to boost your immune system.

5. Eat a plant-based diet rich in color

Overwhelming evidence points out the benefits of a plant based diet.  Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, seaweeds, mushrooms, and herbal spices should make up 60-100% of your diet.  If you have a choice, always go for the color in these foods.  Pigmented potatoes are far healthier than white potatoes.  Deep coloring in the fruits and vegetables demonstrates powerful phytochemicals for improving your health.

6. Use super supplements that are well-tested

When asked how to build the immune system, I am often asked about supplements. Use supplements in addition to, rather than instead of, good food.  Get your nutrients primarily with a fork and spoon.  Do not place an over-reliance on vitamins to provide optimal nourishment.  Supplements (such as ImmunoPower which contains over 40 double-tested ingredients) can provide minerals that are missing in our diet, vitamins that are removed in processing, bolster our nutrient intake beyond “surviving” (RDA) into “thriving” levels, and help us to better tolerate the myriad of toxins found in our 21st century planet.

7. Shop the perimeter of grocery store

On the outside of your grocery store you will find fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, fish, chicken and dairy.  Once you venture into the deep dark interior of the grocery store, you will find that the nutrient content of the foods diminishes greatly AND prices go way up. Organic produce is raised without pesticides and may be valuable in helping certain sensitive individuals.  However, organic produce is unavailable or unaffordable for many people.  Don’t get terribly concerned about having to consume organic produce.  As a guideline, produce that cannot be peeled (like watermelon or bananas) should be soaked for 5 minutes in a solution of one gallon lukewarm clean water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar, which will remove most pesticide residue.

8. If a food will not rot or sprout, throw it out

Your body cells have similar biochemical needs to a bacteria or yeast cell.  Many of us remember the images of a fast-food hamburger that had not attracted mold after about 10 years. Think about it: if bacteria is not interested in your food, then what makes you think that your body cells are interested?  Foods that have a shelf life of a millennium are not going to nourish the body.  Foods that cannot begin sprouting or sustain bacterial growth life, will have a similar effect in your body. Foods to Fight Bad Breath

9. Healing spices can boost your immune system

There are herbs that grandmother used in the kitchen to make the food taste better.  Many of those same herbs have now been scientifically endorsed to be powerful and safe natural medicines: turmeric, curry, mustard, black pepper, hot pepper, cinnamon, all spice, cardamom, garlic, ginger, sage, parsley, rosemary, thyme.­­­­­  Use these herbs frequently and often, replace standard American salt, fat, and sugar to make your food taste better and dramatically boost your body’s health.

10. Essential nutrients to boost your immune system

We need to recognize the priority placed on essential nutrients.  We can live weeks without food, a few days without water and only a few minutes without oxygen.  Keep in mind the relative importance of these essential nutrients. Oxygen and water form the basis of human life.    Protein, carbohydrate, fiber and fat form the next level of importance.  Vitamins and minerals are the essential micronutrients required for health. Above these essential substances are two levels of quasi (meaning “as if it were”) nutrients.  Just a few conditionally essential nutrients include; Coenzyme-Q10, carnitine, EPA and GLA (fatty acids). There are many more. Some people may require these nutrients in the diet during certain stressful phases of their lives.  Minor dietary constituents (MDCs) include a wide variety of plant compounds that have shown remarkable anti-cancer and health-promoting abilities. Just a few of these are; indoles in the cabbage family, lycopenes in tomatoes, allicin in garlic, immune stimulants in sea vegetables and others make up this new and exciting category.  Eating a wide variety of unprocessed plant foods will help to insure adequate intake of these quasi-nutrients.

11. Exercise daily

Getting regular daily exercise will do many wonderful things for your body. Exercise improves circulation, gets the heart pumping, builds muscle, relieves stress and helps you sleep better. Always work with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

12. Reduce stress

Stress always has a negative impact on your health. If you struggle with stress or anxiety, try improving your diet, get some exercise and try meditating. A stressed body cannot function efficiently and will eventually lead to illness and other degenerative diseases. These are easy steps and when you understand how to boost your immune system, you will see an improvement in your overall health. None of these items can be done in isolation. They should be part of an overall health improvement program. Always work with your health professional.

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