How to Replace Painkillers with Natural Spices

It's easy to reach for the painkillers automatically at the first signs of pain, but the natural world is an abundant resource for anti-inflammatory herbs. Some of the spices you use on a regular basis can be consumed and applied to areas of pain to provide relief from discomfort.


Pain is a side effect of many conditions, complaints, and general ailments, and - needless to say - it's uncomfortable. Whether pain is internal or external, even in mild cases it causes a distraction, and in severe cases, pain is debilitating and all-consuming. In relying on quick-fix painkillers to relieve discomfort, many people in today's society are unknowingly overlooking the medicinal resources the natural world has to offer. Studies have shown that some of the world's most popular spices have anti-inflammatory and analgesic abilities that are superior to pharmaceutical drugs in providing pain relief, often without adverse side effects.

1. Cayenne (Capsicum annuum)

Cayenne pepper is a spice that is most famous for giving curries their heat, but it also possesses significant pain-relieving properties, too. Capsaicin, present in the pulp and flesh, can be used in an herbal poultice and applied topically to the site of pain, causing immediate heat, followed by a period of desensitized nerve endings, which reduces pain for several weeks.
The herb can also be consumed in capsule form. When consumed orally, cayenne reduces substance P - the chemical that sends pain messages to the brain. The topical and oral use of cayenne has been found to be particularly effective in treating shingles, back pain, and relieving joint pain in arthritis.

2. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger is a spice with a host of medicinal abilities, perhaps its most important being its anti-inflammatory ones, which studies suggest are greater - and better for the body - than popular pharmaceutical choices like acetaminophen. It works to relieve pain in two ways: by blocking inflammatory compounds, such as prostaglandin and leukotriene, and by breaking down existing inflammation and acidity. This works externally, when ginger root is used to make a poultice to apply to the site of pain; and orally, as an herbal infusion to relieve gastrointestinal and menstrual pain internally.

3. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice is an anti-inflammatory herb that grows wild in Europe and Asia. It contains compounds that taste extremely sweet, and it is easy to source edible licorice from convenience stores and wholesalers to ingest orally. Licorice is especially effective in relieving ulcer pain; studies have found it to have a reductive effect on the diameter of ulcer inflammation.

4. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric is related to ginger and has a similar golden appearance, though turmeric is bitter and less palatable than its sweeter relative. Turmeric root has significant anti-inflammatory abilities, which studies have found superior to ibuprofen in effectiveness, particularly in relation to arthritic pain, which can be relieved by applying the spice ground into a paste to the skin. Turmeric can also be consumed to relieve internal pain as a tea or liquid extract.
It's easy to overlook the pain-relieving resources that are stocked in your kitchen cupboards or growing in your own herb garden when you are used to reaching for pharmaceutical painkillers at the first signs of pain. Herbs have been used for pain relief for centuries, and the benefits of using all-natural painkillers are many - effectiveness, convenience, and affordability, to name but a few.

Bibliography:

• Bode, A.M. & Dong, Z. (2011). The Amazing and Mighty Ginger. In: Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd ed. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92775/
• Chrubasik, S. , Weiser, T. & Beime, B. (2010). Effectiveness and safety of topical capsaicin cream in the treatment of chronic soft tissue pain. Phytotherapy research, 24(12), 1877-1885. doi: 10.1002/ptr.3335
• Moghadamnia, A.A. , Motallebnejad, M. & Khanian, M. (2009). The efficacy of bioadhesive patches containing licorice extract in the management of recurrent apthous stomatitis. Phytotherapy research, 23(2), 246-250. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2601
• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. (2012). Turmeric. Retrieved March 27, 2014, from http://nccam.nih.gov/health/turmeric/ataglance.htm
• University of Maryland Medical Center. (2013). Cayenne. Retrieved March 27, 2014, from http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/cayenne
  
  Sources: http://www.herbazest.com/wellness_articles /how_to_replace_painkillers_with_natural_spices
  

Natural Remedies For Urinary Infections

Have you suffered from urinal tract infections? If you have than you know this unbearable pain.
Infections can be caused from using unhygienic toilets, from sexual intercourse and from withholding the need to urinate.


There are some precautions to stop these infections like drinking lots of water, avoiding sexual intercourse with different partners etc. There are some homemade remedies for curing bacterial infections and they will help you get rid of the pain.

1. Consuming a lot of vitamin C

Drinking fruit juices than contain lots of pineapple and other citrus like fruits (lemons, oranges etc) are a good way to get vitamin c in your body. Water is the best remedy for these diseases , so by drinking lots of it you can get rid of bacteria in your urinal system and be relieved. Cranberry is good for curing these kinds of diseases, even pregnant women can use it .

2. Avoiding coffee, tea and chocolate drinks.

Mix plants such as cinnamon, bearberry, blueberries, they all are good homemade remedies for curing urinal infections.

3. Barley , coconut milk and buttermilk

All these ingredients are good for these kinds of problems. Boiled barley is the best diuretic that neutralizes the acidity in the urinary bladder.

4. Echinacea

The Echinacea plant has the power to kill bacteria causing infections. To get rid of these infections drink tea made from this plant. Echinacea capsules and drugs are also good for treatment. Avoid adding sugar in the tea.

5. Other plants

Other plants such as barberry and garlic are good for killing bacteria. Drinking a glass of juice made from these plants will gradually heal a burning sensation and infections in the urinary bladder.

Sources: http://healthyfoodandherbs.com/natural-remedies-for-urinary-infections/#more-59

Get Rid Of Headache And Normalize Blood Pressure!

This simple method will help you get rid of headaches and normalize blood pressure in a very short time. If you have severe, excruciating head ache – urgently prepare this saline solution.

How to prepare:

First of all, prepare a lining of gauze or thin cotton cloth. Fold the cloth into eight layers, the width should match the height of the forehead, and the length of the head.
After that, heat 250 ml of water to 60-70 C and put two flat teaspoons of salt. Let that dissolve and you will get 8% strength saline solution.

Quickly wash your forehead, ears and the back of the head with warm water. Wet the cloth in the saline solution, gently wring, shake it a little, in order for it to cool down, and wrap your head, ears and neck. To fix the cloth to your head, put on cotton head scarf, and then lie down.

Only after a few minutes you will feel relief, but do not rush with removing the cloth. Lie still for twenty minutes. After you remove the coating, wash your forehead, ears and nape again with warm water.

If you have an awful headache, use this simple method and be sure, you will feel better!
Do not be confused by this salt compress. Salt intake causes swelling and high blood pressure, however saline compresses act on the contrary, through the skin, stimulating fluid elimination from the body, therefore, acting as a diuretic. In a similar way, you can get rid of swollen legs.

Sources: http://healthyfoodandherbs.com/get-rid-of-headache-and-normalize-blood-pressure/

Antibiotic From Nature

The Most Powerful Antibiotic From Nature! A Recipe You Need To Know

This natural antibiotic has a very strong anti-inflammatory effect which not only kills bacteria, but also strengthens the immune system. Unlike synthetic antibiotic that you can buy in pharmacies this medicine does not cause any unwanted effects for your digestion and intestinal micro flora and is completely safe to use.

The main ingredient in this recipe is turmeric. You can make medicinal milk out of it to boost immunity and it is really easy to use it in the kitchen when you are cooking. If you mix it with honey (which is also very beneficial) you will get one of the strongest natural antibiotics. Sounds great, right? Turmeric contains curcumin and polyphenol, an active ingredient which has over 150 therapeutic properties among which are anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antioxidant.

Consumption of honey and turmeric, significantly improves digestion and increases the number of good bacteria in the gut. What makes it even better, all of this is scientifically confirmed. So, the next time you get sick, do not buy drugs at the pharmacy, but make your own antibiotics.

Necessary ingredients:
– 100 g of raw honey
– 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
Mix both ingredients until you get a homogenous mixture and pour that into a clean glass jar.

How to use this medicine?

As soon as you notice the first symptoms of a cold or flu take this medicine the following way:
– First day – take half a teaspoon every hour.
– The second day – take half a teaspoon every two hours.
– Third Day – Take half a teaspoon three times a day.
It is desirable not to swallow it immediately but to leave it in the mouth until it is melted. Many say that after three days of taking this medicine all symptoms disappear. You can also add it in a warm milk or tea.

Sources: http://healthyfoodandherbs.com/the-most-powerful-antibiotic-from-nature-a-recipe-you-need-to-know/

Overcome your Child Anxiety

The award winning Anxiety-Free Child Program was developed with Doctors of Clinical Psychology and other experts to give you the information and resources to help your child overcome their anxiety and restore their happiness and confidence.

Don’t let your child’s anxiety continue to get in the way of the life they deserve. Learn how you can help your child BREAK the cycle of fear and take back the happy childhood they deserve!

The Anxiety-Free Child Program is an award-winning and comprehensive system designed to quickly help your child overcome the anxious feelings that are holding them back from reaching their potential and show them how to be the secure, confident, and HAPPY kids they were meant to be!

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Acne No More - Real People. Real Results. Over 138,000 Acne Free Customers

The video presentation above shows you some unique and rare tips on how to eliminate acne and achieve perfect clear skin in as little as 7 days! This is based on the latest scientific research on how to stop the actual CAUSE of acne. *And if you also have any blackheads, excessive oiliness and hyperpigmentation marks or acne scars, then the moves highlighted above will help remove most of these acne related symptoms while restoring your energy and vitality and dramatically improving the quality of your life. 

 

Important note: I can't leave this video up for long, so be sure to watch it from beginning to end while it's still here. Remember: Watch the whole video, as the ending will pleasantly surprise you… 

<= Click Here For More Details => 

"Weird 30-Second Trick Eliminates Diabetes"

"Weird 30-Second Trick Eliminates Diabetes"

If you have type 2 diabetes, type 1 diabetes, you’ve been diagnosed as pre-diabetic, or you have a loved one with any of these conditions, then stop what you are doing and listen; as these conditions and more can be completely reversed, by yourself, from the comfort of your own home and without having to visit a single doctor or surgery.

 

<= Click Here For More Details => 

In the next few minutes I’m going to share with you a little-known diabetes curing secret...

That the $245 billion– yes you heard me $245 BILLION a year diabetes pharmaceutical industry is desperately scrambling to try and suppress. And if it seems like I’m trying to make them out to be the boogy man, well, I am, and they are, because this cure – yes, I said cure – would destroy the business model that’s making them billions off this terrible disease.
I’m going to tell you about something that has been unanimously shunned by the Big Pharma bribed medical community. The same method that has caused doctors who dare to reveal it to be fined, harassed, sued and even JAILED…

And if you’re thinking this diabetes cure is about strenuous exercise or starving yourself of delicious meals…think again.

I’m talking about an all-natural, safe and permanent, yes that’s right permanent CURE for diabetes. I’m talking about not just covering up your diabetes symptoms through so called diabetes ‘management’ medications or treatments but tackling the root cause of your diabetes head on.
Grabbing the root of the weed that is diabetes, tearing it out, and tossing it away… for good.
Permanently.
Never to come back again.
All naturally, all safely, all by following this one of a kind method backed up by solid science.

This exact same secret has even led to my discovery of a simple, seemingly bizarre but highly effective 30 second trick...

To instantly increase your insulin sensitivity and energy expenditure, resulting in an immediate drop in blood sugar and rapid weight loss.
This trick is something you’ve never heard of before but something you can do right now at home, in just 30 seconds – and no I’m not talking about swallowing a single tablet or supplement, or doing a single bit of exercise. This trick, I promise, will surprise you.

Can you just imagine the absolute joy of finally saying Adios to your diabetes?

The feeling of waking up in the morning, knowing that your blood sugar is under your control and will be throughout the entire day… No matter what you eat, drink, or do…

Safe Herbal And Homeopathic Remedies : What is ADHD or ADD? : Homeopathic medicine for at...

Safe Herbal And Homeopathic Remedies : What is ADHD or ADD? : Homeopathic medicine for at...:   Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition affecting children and adults that is characterized by problems wit.....................

Online Health Food Store : The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids

Online Health Food Store : The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids: The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids By Dr. Matthew Marturano , ND on Friday, June 14, 2013 The word "fat" has a mostl......................

Sunnah And Natural Food For All: 11 Benefits of Lemon Water You May Not Know About

Sunnah And Natural Food For All: 11 Benefits of Lemon Water You May Not Know About: I was first introduced to the concept of lemon water when I started doing yoga. An avid drinker (of water!), it was refreshing to learn a...................

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Sunnah And Natural Food For All: Herbal Remedies for Inflammatory Response

Sunnah And Natural Food For All: Herbal Remedies for Inflammatory Response: Herbal Remedies for Inflammatory Response By Marcelina Hardy , Joint pain can keep you from doing the activities you l...

Sunnah And Natural Food For All: 14 Ways to Cleanse the Body from GMO’s and Environ...

Sunnah And Natural Food For All: 14 Ways to Cleanse the Body from GMO’s and Environ...: From the chemtrails being sprayed over our neighborhoods to the poisons killing our bees and making our food toxic ‘medicine’ we need a w...

14 Ways to Cleanse the Body from GMO’s and Environmental Toxins

From the
chemtrails being sprayed over our neighborhoods to the poisons killing
our bees and making our food toxic ‘medicine’ we need a way to purge the
deadly elixirs of a greedy government, owned and run by corporate
interests. For the sake of keeping your attention, I won’t go on ad
nauseum about fluoridated water, oil spills, and contaminated air and
water due to fracking and mining.

As research
since the early 1900s suggests, our bodies simply cannot handle the
level of toxicity in our environment without some help, though it was
originally designed to cure itself from every conceivable toxin – from
heavy metals to the common cold. We have simply burdened the mechanism
so profoundly, that the intelligence of the human form is being strained
to its acme. We either learn to adapt to the toxic environment that our
governments so blatantly support, or we die. We can’t wait for congress
or the senate to do the right thing. It’s time to get radical. It’s
time to tell your friends about this, even if it is absolutely
rabble-rousing..........................................

7 Ways to help your body detoxify

 by: Kali Sinclair

When you choose to do a cleanse or detox, your goal is to rid the body of as many toxins as possible. Pathogens, parasites, heavy metals, chemicals, and Candida are all targeted for elimination. A really good detox diet helps to cleanse the digestive tract, the kidneys, the liver, and the gallbladder, followed by the rest of the body. So what other actions can you take to help the process?

Exercise

Exercise is an important part of any health regime, and it is important during a cleanse or detox as well. Your health should dictate how hard you exercise. Obviously, a radical detox is not the best time to push yourself too hard. The focus is on healing, not fitness.

Your lymphatic system needs movement in order to circulate. Rebounding is great for the lymphatic system. Walk, jump rope, yoga--all are great.

Squats also help detoxify the body. They help stimulate your elimination organs and they produce beneficial hormones.

We release more toxins through our breath than we do through bowel elimination and urination combined. When the blood gets pumping, and we're breathing heavily, the body is flushing itself. Sweating is also great for detoxing. But again, If you are healthy and you exercise vigorously on a regular basis, just listen to your body and take is slowly if need be. And if you're not physically fit, or if you are considerably toxic and unhealthy, be careful.

Hydrotherapy

Don't underestimate this one! Hot and cold hydrotherapy really moves the blood through the body. Heat dilates the vessels, pulling the blood to the surface. Cold does the opposite, constricting the surface vessels and driving the blood deep into the body. Use a shower wand or stand in a shower to alternate hot and cold.

Dry sauna or steam room

A dry sauna or steam room makes you sweat, helping you eliminate toxins through the skin. Sweating is also great for your skin, as it opens your pores allowing dirt and debris to be washed away. Remember to hydrate after sweating. As you detox, you should be drinking large amounts of clean water. A gallon of cranberry lemonade will aid in your detox and re-hydrate your body after sweating. (See link below.)

Massage

Massage helps release toxins from the muscles and tissues, oxygenates the tissues, and moves the blood and lymph throughout the body. The movement of the two circulatory systems filters the blood, removing waste products from the cells and aiding the immune system in dealing with pathogens.

Massage can be therapeutic on other levels as well. Deep massage frees up muscles that have become held in place by scar tissue or sheathing after years of poor posture, repetitive movement, injury, or illness. This kind of massage can actually be quite painful, but the results are amazing.

Epsom salts bath

A proper Epsom salt bath pulls toxins from tissues and allows the body to soak up minerals. Make sure that you spend a full 40 minutes in the tub. The first 20 minutes pulls out toxins. In the second 20 minutes, the body soaks up magnesium and sulfates.

Turbocharge any detox with niacin

Niacin (B3) is an inexpensive way to boost the efficacy of a detox. Most doctors recommend starting with 100 mg. I weigh 220 pounds and I took 1,500 mg for three days. Don't take it for more than a few days. Drink lots of fluid (like the cranberry lemonade) and sweat out the toxins. Niacin won't do you much good if you aren't flushing out the junk while you do it. It's powerful. You'll be itchy, hot, and flush red all over. The effects last about an hour. Most people without damaged livers can easily handle 500 mg for a few days.

Cranberry Lemonade

Make a gallon of cranberry lemonade sweetened with stevia. This will help balance the body's PH, flush toxins, detoxify the liver and kidneys, flush all of the glands, and clean the blood.

In conclusion

A cleanse or detox is a wonderful way to aid your immune system in eliminating waste, debris, pathogens, and parasites from the body. Using all available resources in addition to diet, will aid you in a more complete and rapid detox. These tips can also be utilized on a daily basis to help your body detox even when you are not on a specific detoxification regimen. Don't forget garlic! Eat lots of garlic. It detoxifies the body as well.

The most important aspect of a good detox for most people is eliminating excess candida and balancing gut flora. Also check out this protocol, and see the first source for the cranberry lemonade recipe.

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/047951_detoxification_toxin_elimination_detox_regimen.html#ixzz3LfNKpp3y

Mangosteen - Queen of Fruits

By: Willow Tohi

The mangosteen, technically the purple mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), is the fruit of a tropical evergreen tree native to Indonesia. About the size of a tangerine, it has an inedible deep reddish-purple rind when ripe. The fragrant white flesh inside is juicy, sweet, tangy, and somewhat fibrous, like a peach. Because of the tree's susceptibility to cold temperatures, only a few trees have been successfully grown in the U.S., in extreme southern Florida. Most mangosteen fruit comes from Thialand, with some coming from similar climates in South America, such as Colombia.

Because the fruit itself is difficult to find here, most Americans get their mangosteen from juice, as the fruit doesn't have a long shelf life after being removed from the tree. It is also becoming available in frozen or dehydrated forms. Some mangosteen juice products are made using the whole fruit, including the inedible purple exocarp, or rind. By including polyphenols extracted from the rind, additional phytochemical value is added, such as xanthonoids and tannins, both offering many health benefits.

The juvenile mangosteen fruit does not require fertilization. It grows on trees that reach anywhere from 20 to 80 feet, after about six to eight years of maturity. It grows in the shade of the canopy over several months. The chemistry of the exocarp contains several polyphenols, including xanthones and tannins that give it astringency, which discourages insects, fungus, bacteria, and animals while the fruit is immature. (http://www.mangosteen.com/historyandfolklore.htm)

The role of mangosteen in folk medicine

The leaves, bark, rinds, and fruit of the mangosteen have been used for thousands of years in Asian folk medicine. It was used to remedy things like diabetes, dysentery, fever, diarrhea, cystitis, skin infections such as eczema and psoriasis, wounds, and digestive system ailments. Often, a tea was made from the rind for internal use or a poultice was made for application to the skin.

Explorers to the Malyay Archipelago came across the mangosteen but had trouble transporting it back to their home countries due to the fragile nature of the extremely perishable fruit. The seed even dies if it is allowed to dry. Still, attempts were made to export the live plant before the 1800s. Needless to say, it took a very long time for the rest of the world to learn about mangosteen. The mangosteen fruit is sometimes referred to as the "Queen of Fruits." Some believe this is because, as legend has it, Queen Victoria was brought some mangosteens from an explorer and was quite taken with them, though this has never been proven. Others believe it is because the health benefits of the fruit itself make it the "Queen of Fruits." (http://www.mangosteen.com/historyandfolklore.htm) Still others claim the nickname comes from the fruit's sweet, amazing taste.

Why scientists are interested in this superfood

The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties in mangosteen make it a valuable weapon in the fight against chronic disease. Extensive research on antioxidants has verified the value of consuming them to fight the free radical damage that occurs at the cellular level, contributed to aging, degenerative disease, and even cancer. Xanthones, found in mangosteen, are also known as adaptogens. They are antioxidants considered to be more powerful than those found in traditional sources of antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E. (http://www.naturalnews.com/009179_mangosteen_fruit_cure.html)

Scientists have conducted numerous studies on the phytochemicals and nutrients in mangosteen for decades. Xanthones have been shown to have beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases including heart disease, atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), hypertension (high blood pressure), and thrombosis (formation of blood clots). This is likely due to the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-thrombotic, and vasorelaxant activities of the xanthones. Researchers have also found that some of the xanthone activity inhibits the causes of inflammation and acts as a pain reliever.

Laboratory research shows that mangosteen xanthones and xanthone derivatives inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, including: leukemia, liver, breast, colon, stomach, and lung, having anti-tumor activity. (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22622784)

Mangosteen also has antibacterial properties, and has been shown to inhibit tuberculosis and staphylococcus aureus, an antibiotic-resistant "superbug" known to cause pneumonia as well as bone, skin, and bloodstream infections (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22494050). Ongoing research is being done on applications of mangosteen xanthones for asthma, diabetes, and obesity.

Mangosteen is available as a food in canned, frozen, or dehydrated form. Some specialty stores may have the fruit when it is in season. As a supplement, it can be found in capsule, tablet, and cream forms. It is most popular as a beverage, mixed with other juices or alone. Because of the power of the nutrients, it is a good idea to consult your health practitioner when adding it to your diet if you are on prescription medication, or have a delicate medical condition. Adding mangosteen to your diet is a very tasty way to better your health.

Sources for this article include:

http://healthyfood-list.blogspot.com

http://www.naturalnews.com/009179_mangosteen_fruit_cure.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mangosteen

http://www.mangosteen.com/historyandfolklore.htm

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22622784

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/042586_mangosteen_queen_of_fruits_phytonutrients.html#ixzz3Lf4DGzwM

Insomnia Triples Risk of Heart Failure

The risk of developing heart failure tripes for people who suffer from insomnia.

The finding came from a new study, the largest yet to examine the association, and was published in the European Heart Journal.

Previous research suggested that insomniacs have a moderately higher risk of having a heart attack (27 to 45% greater) than people who rarely have problems sleeping.

The new investigation involved 54,279 people between the ages of 20 and 89 who were followed for an average of over 11 years.

Results showed that the participants who experienced three insomnia symptoms were over 3 times more likely to develop heart failure compared to those with no symptoms of insomnia.

Heart failure risk linked to 3 important symptoms

The risk of heart failure was associated with three critical insomnia symptoms:

• trouble falling asleep
• problem staying asleep
• not waking up feeling refreshed in the morning

More research is needed to determine a casual relationship

Although an association was shown between insomnia and an elevated risk of heart failure, the study did not demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship.

"We do not know whether heart failure is really caused by insomnia," Dr Laugsand said. However, he added, if it is, it is possible to treat insomnia by strategies including following simple suggestions regarding sleeping habits, commonly known as sleep hygiene, and many psychological and pharmacological therapies.

Assessment of sleep issues may offer further details that could be used to prevent heart failure. More studies would be necessary to determine whether or not insomnia causes the condition.

Read more at ...........Medical News Today

Copyright: Medical News Today
Written by Sarah Glynn

Sources: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/257311.php?sr

'Insomnia may increase the risk of stroke,' researchers say

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, around 30% of the US population has insomnia. Now, as if having difficulty getting to sleep is not enough, new research suggests that insomniacs are at much higher risk of stroke than those without the sleep disorder.
 
The research team, including Ya-Wen Hsu of the Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science and the Department of Medical Research at Chi-Mei Medical Center, both in Taiwan, recently published their study in Stroke - a journal of the American Heart Association.
To reach their findings, the investigators analyzed randomly selected medical records of more than 21,000 people with insomnia in Taiwan, alongside the health records of 64,000 individuals without the disorder. All participants were followed-up for 4 years.
At the end of the follow-up period, individuals with insomnia were divided into different groups:

Researchers found that insomniacs, particularly those aged between 18 and 35 years at diagnosis, have a much higher stroke risk than those without the sleep disorder.

• Chronic or persistent insomnia (lasting 1 to 6 months)
• Relapse insomnia (return of insomnia after being free of the condition for more than 6 months at any evaluation point in the study), and
• Remission insomnia (a change from a diagnosis of insomnia to non-insomnia at any point during the study period).

Stroke risk highest among younger insomniacs

 

The researchers found that, throughout the follow-up period, 583 people with insomnia were admitted to the hospital as a result of stroke, while 962 individuals without insomnia were admitted for stroke.
Relative to the number of study participants, the researchers found that individuals with insomnia had a 54% increased risk of hospitalization for stroke, compared with non-insomniacs. Insomniacs who were diagnosed with the disorder between 18 and 35 years old were eight times more likely to be hospitalized for stroke than those without insomnia.
A higher 3-year cumulative incidence of stroke was found in people with persistent insomnia, compared with those in the remission group.
The investigators also found that insomniacs with diabetes had a higher risk of stroke than those without diabetes.

Although the research team says it is not fully clear as to why insomnia may increase stroke risk, past research has suggested that the sleep disorder can interfere with cardiovascular health by causing inflammation, increasing blood pressure and impairing glucose levels.
They add that certain behaviors - such as diet, exercise, alcohol use and smoking - could also influence the association between insomnia and stroke risk, as well as stress.

'Insomnia should be treated earlier to prevent future disease risk'

Since this study was conducted using participants from Taiwan, it is unclear as to whether the findings apply to other populations. However, the researchers note that studies from other countries have reported a similar link between insomnia and stroke.
"Though insomnia is the most common sleep complaint, it should not be perceived merely as a symptom of another disease," Hsu told Medical News Today. "Rather, it should be identified and treated earlier in clinical settings to prevent future disease risk."
However, he told us that although insomnia is a common problem, the results should not cause public panic regarding future stroke risk.
"Rather, we would like to point out that the patients or general population should pay more attention to their insomnia patterns overtime," he added. "If persistence of insomnia is found, they should seek early treatment to reduce their future risks of stroke."
Other studies have also suggested a link between insomnia and cardiovascular health. Medical News Today recently reported on a study suggesting that daylight savings in spring - when we lose an hour of sleep - may increase the risk of cardiac events, while another study indicates that symptoms of insomnia are associated with higher risk of death from heart-related problems.

Written by Honor Whiteman

Sources: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/274985.php?sr

MegaFood Products Suit Range of Dietary Needs

By Petra Trudell, Managing Editor

In today's society, no two people eat the same. Whether for personal, medical or religious reasons, consumers are tailoring their diets to remove certain food groups or ingredients that don't suit their needs or their health.

MegaFood has taken note of these changes and made adjustments to their most popular products to make them suitable for a wider audience, removing common allergens, chemicals and animal products.

Here are all the important certifications MegaFood products have and what they mean for the customer:

Non-GMO
When a product is labeled as non-GMO, this means the product doesn't contain any genetically modified or engineered organisms. Foods that are commonly genetically modified include corn and soybeans, which can be found in many supplements in some form.

Non-GMO Project Verified
This labeling takes non-GMO a step further. The Non-GMO Project began in 2008, allowing products to be evaluated by a third party to determine if they were, in fact, free of genetically modified organisms. Products that are determine to be non-GMO by this organization are given a seal customers can look for on the product.

In June of this year, several of MegaFood's products were non-GMO verified by the Non-GMO Project, including Blood Builder. MegaFood's production facility was also recognized by the Non-GMO Project. This facility is now a certified handler of non-GMO ingredients and productions, according to a press release.

Vegetarian
Someone who is vegetarian typically doesn't consume the meat or flesh of any animals. This usually excludes red meat and poultry from the diet and may also exclude seafood. Eggs and dairy products are usually left in the diet as a source of protein.

Vegan
If you follow a vegan lifestyle, this means avoiding all animal ingredients and byproducts. For a product to be vegan, it cannot contain meat, dairy, eggs or animal products or substances like gelatin or oil for animals. Since vegans typically don't consume any type of animal or insect – this may also exclude products like honey, which is produced by bees and commercially collected.

Soy Free
As previously mentioned, various forms of soy can be found in processed foods and supplements, as derived from whole soybeans. Some people are allergic to soy or avoid it for other reasons, like the fact a lot of soybeans are genetically modified. Soy can also have a phytoestrogen effect on the body, acting like the hormone estrogen.

Dairy Free
Dairy ingredients include milk and eggs, which are common allergens that can cause potentially dangerous side effects. They can also cause digestive upset, such as cramping, bloating and gas, in some individuals who don't tolerate them as well. Dairy is typically avoided by all vegans and some vegetarians.

Herbicide and Pesticide Free
Herbicides and pesticides have become a part of modern farming. These chemicals are used to ward off insects and other parasites that can destroy crops, help the organism withstand the elements and to help it grow larger and faster. Organic farming doesn't use any of these chemicals.

Kosher
For a food product, like a supplement, to be considered Kosher, it must be produced according to a specific set of guidelines. These guidelines cover how animals are raised, slaughtered and processed and how fruits, vegetables are grains are grown and harvested. These guidelines are a part of Jewish dietary law, or kashrut, and aim to limit the consumption of hazardous or unclean foods that don't contribute to the overall health of the individual.

Gluten Free
Gluten is a substance found in wheat, barley and rye which helps dough to rise and creates that springy texture. This gluten can be toxic to certain individuals, causing digestive distress. In those with celiac disease, an autoimmune disease, gluten causes the body to attack the intestines, permanently damaging them and preventing the absorption of vital nutrients.

Look for the labeling pertaining to each of the certifications listed here on MegaFood products to determine which ones are right for your needs and lifestyle. Not all products have all of these certifiecations. The researchers at MegaFood continue to develop products suitable for people of all dietary needs and restrictions.

Check out our selection of MegaFood products at eVitamins and stay tuned for further updates!

Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/megafood-products-suit-range-dietary-needs-759#.VIkpYsm17uc

Deva Vegan Prenatal Multivitamin and Mineral 

Product Information

Get your baby's life off to a healthy start with the Vegan Prenatal Multivitamin and Mineral One Daily from Deva. These 100-percent vegan daily supplements are designed to provide the most essential nutrients to both mother and child without exposing them to animal products. Vegan and vegetarian women often struggle to get the proper daily amount of vitamin B12, folic acid and other nutrients that ensure proper health and fetal development. Every vitamin and mineral in the Vegan Prenatal Multivitamin and Mineral One Daily aids helps baby grow properly while mom stay healthy, too. Start the journey to motherhood off right with the Vegan Prenatal Multivitamin and Mineral One Daily from Deva. Order it today from eVitamins and save big!

WARNINGS: Always consult your doctor before taking any dietary supplement. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements on our website have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.

NOTES: Contains no yeast, wheat, gluten, starch, sugar, salt, hexane, dairy, egg, fish; artificial preservatives, flavors or fragrance; animal products, byproducts or derivatives. All Deva products are 100% vegan, vegetarian and certified by the Vegan Society, the non-profit organization that actually invented the word "vegan."

Is It Possible to Take Too Many Antioxidants?

By Petra Trudell, Managing Editor

If you've ever heard of free radicals, you know they're the enemy.

Our atmosphere contains a great deal of oxygen, which means oxygen radicals are found everywhere, which is why oxidative stress to some degree is unavoidable. Free radicals can damage the body's cells, and are believed to be at least partially responsible for some neurological disorders, as well as some cases of diabetes, arthritis, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

A natural defense against free radicals is taking in antioxidants. But how much should you have? Is it possible to take it too far? This is a question many Canadians are asking.

How Much Is Too Much?
Antioxidants are found in vitamins A, C and E. They are also found in minerals like selenium and in plant chemicals, including carotenoids and flavonoids.

As an example, let's look at two nutrients with strong antioxidant activity within the body: vitamin C and vitamin E. Research has indicated that nutrition affects the availability of vitamins C and E, which aid in the reduction of oxidative stress. They may also be able to reduce incidences of disease. Eating foods rich in antioxidants may also modulate risk factors for coronary heart disease and other ailments. Antioxidants like those in vitamins C and E are important to your health. However, you only need to take in enough to balance the free radicals in your body.

In a study using lab mice, researchers have found that overloading natural antioxidants could lead to eventual heart failure. When your body’s cells are working properly, they produce the right amount of the antioxidant known as reduced glutathione. If they produce too much, then reductive stress will develop. By lowering the reduced glutathione level in mice that had failing hearts, researchers prevented their heart failure. Balancing the amount of antioxidants and free radicals is the key.

The Role of Diet
Cell damage happens as you age -- this is natural. Antioxidants help to protect the cells of your body from this damage. Other cell damage can occur from cigarette smoke and pollution. It can lead to diseases like diabetes and heart disease. The way you can offset those effects is by getting all the nutrients your body needs.

You don't need to supplement your antioxidant levels if you eat a healthy diet. It will give you the vital vitamins and minerals your body needs. Many healthy foods contain the antioxidants your body needs to fight off dangerous free radicals. Using natural antioxidants may reduce the risk of taking in too many antioxidants for your body to use. Make sure you include fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lentils, beans, seeds, nuts and healthy fats in your diet. Tea, particularly green tea is a great source of antioxidants, like EGCG.

Food rich in vitamin A include carrots, pumpkins and sweet potatoes. Note the bright orange color, which is the result of carotenoids. To increase your intake of vitamin C, include raspberries and strawberries in your diet. Fruits like mango, grapefruit and papaya are helpful, too. As for vegetables, pick up some Brussels sprouts, spinach and green or peppers. To get more vitamin E in your diet, try some avocados and aim to eat fish twice a week, especially tuna, salmon and mackerel. You might also enjoy sprinkling sunflower seeds or almonds in your cereal or on your salads. Adding selenium to your daily diet is as easy as enjoying beans, nuts, eggs and fish throughout the day. No foods you haven't heard of before.

Antioxidant Supplements
If you have food sensitivities and allergies or don't like the foods mentioned, supplements can be a great way to add more antioxidants to your diet. You can find single vitamin supplements, like A, C and E as well as individual antioxidant supplements like lycopene, which commonly comes from tomatoes, or resveratrol, which can be found in grapes. Your doctor can help you determine the best dosage for your needs and for how long to take the supplement. If you're pregnant, nursing or currently being treated for a medical condition, it's especially important to speak with your physician first before adding any supplement.

Check out our entire selection of antioxidant supplements at eVitamins Canada and let us know what products you like best!

Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/is-it-possible-take-too-many-antioxidants-767#.VIkiAMm17uc

What Are Antioxidants? The Benefits of These Free Radical Fighters

By Petra Trudell, Managing Editor

As of late, antioxidants have ruled the health world as the popular kid. We like saying the snack we're having or the skin cream we use is packed with them. But what are they?

Think of antioxidants as a home security system for your body. They prevent the bad guys from getting in and when they do, antioxidants alert the good guys to help take care of it. With new research linking the positive effects of antioxidants with preventing diseases like Parkinson's and pancreatic cancer, there's never been a better time to learn more about them.

What They Do
An antioxidant is not a specific compound or physical object, rather, many different things fall into the antioxidant category. Vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are all considered antioxidants because of their actions in the body. An antioxidant defends the cells of the body against free radicals, which are molecules produced from toxins in the environment or by the breakdown and digestion of certain foods. Left to run a muck inside you, free radicals can damage the cells, causing them to age and leading to diseases like heart disease and cancer. Too many free radicals also means an impaired immune system, making you even more susceptible to bacteria and viral infections.

Where to Get Antioxidants
Antioxidants can be found in all sorts of foods we encounter daily. The benefit of getting your antioxidants through food sources is the mixture of antioxidants you get in each food. These antioxidants are also better absorbed and utilized by the body. Want to start an antioxidant-rich diet? Here are some of the best foods and drinks to shop for, recommended by the Mayo Clinic:

• Drinks -- Green tea, red wine, pomegranate juice and coffee
• Vegetables -- Spinach, pumpkin, kale, broccoli, potatoes (red, white and sweet, not peeled), red cabbage and artichokes
• Fruits -- Tomatoes, apples (keep the peel), avocados, cherries, pears, plums, kiwi and pineapple as well as berries like raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and cranberries
• Beans -- Red, black, kidney and pinto 
• Grains -- Oat-based products
• Nuts -- Walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios and almonds
• Herbs -- Cloves, ginger, cinnamon, oregano, turmeric

For an added bonus, enjoy dark chocolate to satisfy your sweet tooth. There are also certain supplements you can take to get an individual antioxidant's benefits. Some of the most popular and beneficial supplemental antioxidants include resveratrol, selenium, vitamins C and E, beta carotene, manganese and alpha lipoic acid (ALA).

The Latest Research
As mentioned before, having sufficient antioxidants can help reduce your risk for developing cancer, heart disease or macular degeneration. These two studies, both released this month, reflect the continuing research surrounding antioxidants and disease prevention:

• Parkinson's disease:
  In an animal study conducted by Dr. Bobby Thomas, a neuroscientist at the Medical College of Georgia and published in Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, a medication called synthetic triterpenoids prevented development of the disease. The drug helped to reinforce the antioxidant Nrf2 that helps to prevent inflammation and therefore oxidative stress and brain cell death associated with this disease. 
• Pancreatic cancer:
  Published in the July issue the medical journal Gut, this study found found individuals who consumed a diet rich in selenium were half as likely to develop pancreatic cancer and those who consumed a high amount of selenium as well as vitamins C and E were 67 percent less likely to develop the cancer. The study was conducted for almost 20 years, beginning in 1993, following the diets of 23,500 people who kept journals of their consumption.

No matter how you get them  -- food, drinks or supplements -- you should look for ways to add antioxidants to your diet. They're your body's first line of defense against disease, and with all that's out there today, we need all the help we can get.

Sources: http://www.evitamins.com/a/what-are-antioxidants-benefits-these-free-radical-fighters-394#.VIkgJcm17uc