As the afternoon sets in, many of us find it becomes increasingly difficult to concentrate and work attentively. Can chocolate help? A new study suggests the answer is yes. Researchers found that eating dark chocolate may help to increase alertness. The results of the study were published in the journal NeuroRegulation. Chocolate + Theanine = A Winning Combo for Staying Alert Previous studies show chocolate can change the chemical activity of our brains. It’s particularly known for raising dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with focus, pleasure, and motivation. For the current study, researchers recruited 122 young adults between the age of 18 and […]
Bees are the givers of health and life in more ways than one. In fact, a good deal of planetary life depends upon these small creatures. For example, bees are responsible for 80% of the pollination needed for the existence of fruits and vegetables. The most commonly known bee product is, of course, honey, which has been consumed by humans for thousands of years. But royal jelly deserves an equal amount of attention. Here’s why. What is Royal Jelly? Royal jelly, created within worker bee glands and fed to the hive queen, results in a life span that is up […]
If you’re a woman over 50 and you have a family history of melanoma, you’ll want to know the new findings about an old, simple pain reliever. Researchers have found that it may cut your risk of developing melanoma 30% and more the longer you take it. Here’s what you should know… Melanoma Risk? Study Shows Aspirin Can Help Aspirin is a simple pain relieving compound that has been used for decades for headaches, fever, muscle cramps, and more. Even though aspirin is a manufactured “drug”, its active ingredient, salicin, is actually derived from white willow bark, a natural herb. […]
When I was a kid, black licorice was one of my favorite treats to sneak. It was different from most of the other sugary treats, as it wasn’t so sweet and it had a completely unique flavor. Well, guess what? I just learned that a compound present in natural licorice root is now getting a lot of respect from medical and dental researchers. If you’re concerned about the health of your teeth and gums, you’ll want to know about this… Fight Dental Disease with Special Licorice Compound Good dental health is an ongoing concern, even more so as you get […]
It’s possible to adjust your mood by adjusting your diet. Certain FoodTrients—like choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and tryptophan—promote healthy neurotransmitters in the brain, allowing calming signals to get through more effectively. Many vitamins and minerals—especially B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, and the FoodTrients vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and zinc—are used up when we’re under stress and should be replenished ASAP. To contribute to a good mood, we should be eating whole grains, poultry, eggs, citrus, berries, and dark green veggies. Putting the right foods into our bodies is only half the battle. We also need to be sure we’re not […]
The June 2015 issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published findings from researchers at the University of Copenhagen of a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death in association with increases in plasma vitamin C and fruit and vegetable intake. The investigators analyzed data from 87,030 men and women enrolled in the Copenhagen General Population Study and 10,173 participants in the Copenhagen City Heart Study. Plasma vitamin C levels were measured in 3,512 newly recruited subjects and dietary intake data was available for 83,256 subjects. Ischemic heart disease was documented in 10,123 individuals and there were 8,477 deaths over the studies’ […]
Researchers may have found a way to slow down or prevent memory problems that arise in old age and which can become devastating in patients with dementia. The fresh hope comes from a series of studies in humans and mice that identified a protein which causes memory impairment when it builds up in the blood and brain with age. Scientists found that injections of the protein made young animals’ memories worse and reduced the growth of new neurons in their brains. Further studies showed that blocking the protein prevented memory loss in older animals, making them smarter than untreated animals […]
While blueberries and strawberries usually gain recognition for their health-enhancing properties, raspberries have quietly built an impressive resume of vast health benefits that match any berry. The fruit’s potent anti-inflammatory power contributes to fighting obesity, enhancing cardiovascular support, battling cancer, and combating diabetes. Raspberries’ History Although the exact origin of raspberries (Rubus spp.) is unknown, it’s believed they were cultivated in Europe more than 2,000 years ago and introduced to North America from eastern Asia through trading. The edible fruit is one of the most popular berries in the world, with top producers in Russia, the United States, Serbia, and […]
For my patients who are at high risk for a heart attack or stroke, I’ve sometimes recommended a simple daily aspirin for prevention. But, recently, it was learned that over half of U.S. seniors are taking daily aspirin on their own without their doctors recommendation. If you’re one of those seniors, here’s what you should know about using aspirin for prevention. Daily Aspirin as Prevention: Pros and Cons A recent national survey was conducted by Oregon State University regarding aspirin use amongst seniors. They found that an overwhelming majority of seniors – 81% – take aspirin as a preventative measure. […]
Like many people, you may get acid indigestion at times. The first thing you do is reach for your favorite over-the-counter antacid to get relief. But, what if I told you that every time you use that antacid, you increase your risk of a life-threatening fracture? It’s true. Here’s why. Your Favorite Antacid Is Damaging Your Bones If you’re over 50, your risk for osteoporosis and a debilitating, life-changing fracture is much greater. Hormonal decreases in both older men and women can create mineral insufficiencies and weaken your bones. It can put you at higher risk for debilitating fractures of […]
