Even though humans cannot synthesize vitamin C, every tissue and cell in our body needs this nutrient for healthy growth and repair. Maintaining optimal levels of vitamin C is difficult because it is water soluble and cannot be stored in the body. This inability to maintain high vitamin C levels is recognized by researchers as limiting its potential benefit, especially with regard to chronic illness. For years, scientists have been looking for ways to boost the impact of each dose of vitamin C. Fortunately, a method has been discovered to increase the speed at which vitamin C is absorbed. Reaching peak concentrations […]
Tired and weak but can’t seem to figure out why? If so, you’ll want to read this. You’re getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet, but you still need that extra cup of coffee to get you through the day. Maybe your doctor has told you that you’re anemic. However, your blood levels of iron, vitamin B12, and even your hormones are all in range, so what’s going on? The cause of your fatigue might be simpler than you thought — a lack of vitamin D. Most people associate anemia (low production of red blood cells) with low blood […]
The determined FoodTrients team took on legendary Southern California traffic, parking lots filled to capacity by 8:00 a.m., and the threat of a monsoon-like storm to visit and evaluate a million square feet of exhibit space at this year’s Natural Products Expo West at the Anaheim Convention Center, in the shadow of Disneyland. This is the largest natural products trade show in the world and this year’s event broke records—again! There were more than 3,000 exhibitors and over 77,000 registered attendees—up 6.9% over last year. This included 600 first-time exhibitors. Besides its enormous size, the most notable characteristic of this […]
Have you ever wondered why you no longer can process information and focus quite as well as you did in your youth? Or have you ever pondered as to why it is so difficult for some people to stay away from the dessert table or quit smoking? The answer may be due to one common denominator that resides within your brain…dopamine. What is Dopamine? Dopamine is known as the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that signals neurons to regulate mood and brain function and plays a large role in reward behavior. Around age 45–60, the enzyme that breaks down dopamine, called monoamine oxidase-B […]
WASHINGTON– EWG’s new Dietary Guidelines give people solid nutrition advice and highlight the shortcomings of the Obama administration’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans released earlier this month, which were confusing to consumers and overly influenced by the $1 trillion-a-year food industry. “These guidelines serve the public interest, not the vested interests,” said Ken Cook, president and co-founder of EWG. The government’s guidelines watered down evidence that a plant-based diet is better for health and the environment by not clearly advising Americans to eat less meat. These guidelines did not explain the serious health risks of exposure to mercury in certain fish. […]
Dong quai is a root known as the “female ginseng.” Ginseng is well-known for its ability to support endurance, memory, sexual function (particularly for men), and heart health. Dong quai’s use in Chinese medicine has been documented for more than one thousand years, mainly for easing women’s menopausal symptoms, which is why it’s called the “female ginseng.” But it’s not just for women. It can actually benefit men and women alike with many other aspects of health including mood, bone, joints, lungs, brain, and heart. Female Ginseng Offers Relief from Female Hormone Issues Like ginseng, dong quai is used as a […]
Not in the mood? An extract from the herb fenugreek may actually help. While most of us are familiar with those “blue pill” ads targeted to males experiencing “Low-T”, female sex drive – or a lack of it – has received far less attention. Interestingly enough, a recent study from Australia showed that fenugreek helped women regain sexual function. The results were published in the journal Phytotherapy Research. Fenugreek Increases Sexual Desire and Arousal in Women A lagging libido can be due to many factors. Relationship issues, depression, and even hormonal imbalances may be at play. Women complaining of low […]
Whether you love them or hate them, one thing is for sure: 12-hour shifts make for a long day or night.
By Grace O I’m looking forward to Chinese New Year, which begins on February 8. This year is the Year of the Monkey. People born in this year of the Chinese zodiac are characterized as quick-witted, curious, innovative and mischievous. They are clever and intelligent, especially when it comes to career and wealth. ‘Monkeys’ are lively, flexible, and versatile. It’s said that their gentleness and honesty brings them an everlasting love life. Does that sound like you or someone you know? Julius Caesar, Leonardo da Vinci, Charles Dickens, Tom Hanks, Will Smith, Halle Berry, Diana Ross, Elizabeth Taylor, Alice […]
If you made a resolution to get fit this year, you’re not alone. Becoming healthier and getting in shape often tops the list of New Year’s resolutions. So if you’re hitting the gym and eating healthy at home, you’re off to a great start, but sticking to your fitness resolution while at work can be a little tougher. Depending on your position, you may get a lot of exercise during your shift. All that walking, bending over, and moving equipment can burn a lot of calories. Still, there may be times being at work threatens your fitness resolution. Between the […]
