Nature Knows and Psionic Success

Bruce Hammock, UC Davis distinguished professor (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey) Inhibitors of a key regulatory enzyme in humans and experimental animals studied in the lab of UC Davis distinguished professor Bruce Hammock may lead to a role in treating people with Alzheimer’s disease by reducing inflammation in the brain.

“Inflammation in the brain, or neuorinflammation, is strongly implicated in Alzheimer’s disease,” said Hammock, co-author of a research paper, “ An Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitor Reduces Neuroinflammation in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease ,” published Dec. 9 in the journal Science Translational Medicine .

“This paper is getting worldwide attention, and I hope it stimulates research on the role of lipid mediators in brain health” said Hammock, who holds a joint appointment with the Department of Entomology and Nematology and the UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer.

Some 5.8 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, an irreversible brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills.

A team of eight scientists, led by Hui Zheng of the Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, explained that the enzyme, soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH), is elevated in the brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and in an amyloid mouse model with AD. Blocking sEH “may replenish the natural epoxy lipids, combat neuroinflammation, and improve cognition,” they said.

Hammock describes sEH as a key regulatory enzyme involved in the metabolism of fatty acids. It regulates a new class of natural chemical mediators, which in turn resolve inflammation while reducing blood pressure and pain. Hammock and his lab have been involved in research on this enzyme for more than 50 years.

“Inflammatory processes are known to be associated with the pathology and neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Charles DeCarli , director of UC Davis Health’s Alzheimer’s Disease Center , a National Institutes of Health-funded research center funded by the National Institutes of Health. “While the exact mechanisms remain elusive, these new data offer a unique avenue for novel therapeutic development and may be the first step in the process of finding an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.” DeCarli, who was not involved in the Baylor-UC Davis study, is a distinguished professor of neurology in the Department of Neurology and the Center for Neuroscience. He serves as the Victor and Genevieve Orsi Chair in Alzheimer’s Research and directs the Imaging of Dementia and Aging laboratory. Hui Zheng, professor and director of Baylor College of Medicine’s Huffington Center on Aging The team, including three researchers from the Hammock lab—Hammock, Sung Hee Hwang and Debin Wan—and five from Baylor–Zheng, Anamitra Ghosh, Michele Comerota, Fading Chen, Nicholas Propson–identified a lipid metabolic pathway regulating neuroinflammation. Further development of sEH inhibitors may lead to a potential treatment for AD, they said.

In their abstract, the scientists explained that epoxy fatty acids “are derivatives of the arachidonic acid and omega-3 fatty acid metabolism pathways and have anti-inflammatory activities. However, their beneficial efficacy is limited because of their rapid hydrolysis by the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH).”

Zheng, director and professor of Baylor’s Huffington Center on Aging, also holds joint appointments with Baylor’s Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and the Department of Molecular and Human Genetics. Her laboratory focuses on basic and translational research on Alzheimer’s disease. “Our expertise is mouse genetics, and we are known for using sophisticated mouse models and innovative approaches to probe the biology and pathophysiology of AD,” she writes on her website.

Hammock added: “We have been lucky to collaborate with the scientists from Baylor and others around the world to find ways to resolve inflammation and reduce chronic diseases of aging. One of our sEH inhibitors is in human safety trials on a clinical path to treat chronic pain, we are hopeful that the compound also can be repurposed to ameliorate symptoms of diseases in the central nervous system.”

Of the 5.8 million Americans who have Alzheimer’s, around 5.3 million are 65 and older, according to the Alzheimer’s Association (AA). About two-thirds are women. “African-Americans are about twice as likely to have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia as whites. Hispanics are about 1.5 times as likely to have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia as whites.”

The National Institute on Aging indicates that the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease doubles every five years beyond the age of 65. At present, someone in the U.S. develops Alzheimer’s disease every 66 seconds. Worldwide, some 44 million people have Alzheimer’s.

The abstract: “Neuroinflammation has been increasingly recognized to play a critical role in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The epoxy fatty acids (EpFAs) are derivatives of the arachidonic acid metabolism pathway and have anti-inflammatory activities. However, their efficacy is limited because of their rapid hydrolysis by the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH). We report that sEH is predominantly expressed in astrocytes and is elevated in postmortem brain tissue from patients with AD and in the 5xFAD β amyloid mouse model of AD. The amount of sEH expressed in AD mouse brains correlated with a reduction in brain EpFA concentrations. Using a specific small-molecule sEH inhibitor, 1-trifluoromethoxyphenyl-3-(1-propionylpiperidin-4-yl) urea (TPPU), we report that TPPU treatment protected wild-type mice against LPS-induced inflammation in vivo. Long-term administration of TPPU to the 5xFAD mouse model via drinking water reversed microglia and astrocyte reactivity and immune pathway dysregulation. This was associated with reduced β amyloid pathology and improved synaptic integrity and cognitive function on two behavioral tests. TPPU treatment correlated with an increase in EpFA concentrations in the brains of 5xFAD mice, demonstrating brain penetration and target engagement of this small molecule. These findings support further investigation of TPPU as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of AD.”

Some 5.8 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, an irreversible brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. UC Davis distinguished professor Bruce Hammock sees a light at the end of the tunnel. (Photo by Kathy Keatley Garvey)

Read more at ucanr.edu

Acai berries are known for their striking deep purple hue. Their mild, not-sweet-at-all taste make them the perfect base for smoothie bowls topped with oats, coconut shavings, and other antioxidant-rich berries. The Brazilian “superfruit” is only increasing in popularity—not just in the U.S., but throughout the world—thanks to its considerable health benefits. Here’s everything you need to know about the nutrient-dense fruit, including acai berry benefits, nutrition facts, risks, and acai berry recipes. Where do acai berries grow?

The berry with a funny name (pronounced ah-sah-EE ) grows on palm trees in tropical Central and South America, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). A longtime diet staple among indigenous people in the Amazon region, the acai has become something of an “it” food in the U.S.

“Because the fruit contains a pit, it is technically a drupe—a fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone containing a seed,” says nutritional psychiatrist Umadevi Naidoo, the director of nutritional and lifestyle psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of This is Your Brain on Food . Peaches, plums, olives, and cherries are all drupes.

For safe consumption, the outer skin of an acai berry is first soaked to soften it and then mashed to make a paste.

You won’t find fresh acai berries in the produce section of your local grocery store. “The ‘berries’ are fragile and don’t last, so they are frequently exported as frozen fruit puree, powder, or juice,” says Dr. Naidoo. Acai berry nutrition facts

According to Sambazon , a certified organic and fair trade acai company, a 100-gram serving of pure unsweetened acai puree contains the following: Calories: 70

Fat: 5 g (6% DV)

Fibre: 3 g (11% DV)

Protein: 1 g

Carbs: 4 g (1% DV)

Calcium: 23 mg (2% DV)

Potassium: 121 mg (2% DV)

Vitamin A: 26 mcg (2% DV)

Are acai berries good for you?

The short answer is: Yes. Acai’s rich, purple hue is a sign that it contains anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that may help protect against various diseases .

“Acai is rich in antioxidants, having [several times] the amount found in blueberries ,” Dr. Naidoo says. The fruit also beats out cranberries, blackberries, and goji berries.

“What’s interesting about antioxidants is that not only do they help prevent free radical damage from pollution and other everyday stressors, they can also prevent free radicals from doing damage to DNA, which is what leads to cancer and causes aging,” says Emmaline Rasmussen, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Chicago.

Acai alone won’t prevent health problems—it’s only one fruit—but it can be part of a diet that keeps your cells healthy.

Gallery: 15 Ways Apple Cider Vinegar Could Benefit Your Health (Best Health) 10-apple-cider-vinegar-boosts-energy – iStock/Elenathewise

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Slide 1 of 15: Apple cider vinegar can help tummy troubles One of the oldest apple cider vinegar uses in the book is to take it to fix tummy woes. For an upset stomach, try sipping some apple cider vinegar mixed with water. If a bacterial infection is at the root of your diarrhea, apple cider vinegar could help contain the problem, thanks to its antibiotic properties. What’s more, some folk remedy experts contend that apple cider vinegar contains pectin, which can help soothe intestinal spasms. Try mixing one or two tablespoons into water, or clear juice like apple juice. Some people like taking it straight instead—but this is why you shouldn’t be drinking apple cider vinegar shots. Potential health benefits of acai berries

Anthocyanins are antioxidant compounds responsible for the red, purple, and blue pigments in fruits and veggies like berries, currants, red cabbage, and grapes. Research, including a review of studies published in 2017 in Food & Nutrition Research , suggests these antioxidants may help prevent cardiovascular disease , diabetes, and cancer.

The plant compounds in acai have also been shown to improve the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood vessels dilate and improve circulation, according to a study published in 2016 in Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology . Acai also supplies polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3’s, which may also keep your heart healthy. May help weight loss

While acai can fit into a weight loss plan, there is no research to substantiate claims that acai alone promotes rapid weight loss, according to the NCCIH. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has flagged many acai supplements for deceptive marketing. Be wary of any supplement or powder making weight-loss claims.On the upside, acai contains zero grams of sugar, which is remarkable for a fruit, says Rasmussen. That means that if you’re on a low-carb diet , acai is a good way to include fruit in your diet. To sweeten things up, add a sugar-free sweetener, like monk fruit or stevia, says Rasmussen.Even if you’re on a keto diet , you can still fit acai into your meal plan, as it contains just one gram of net carbs, which allows you to get in much-needed fibre. (To figure out net carbs subtract the grams of fibre from the total carbs.) One warning: Due to its lack of natural sweetness acai products can contain added sugar or are blended with fruit juices. For instance, Sambazon’s “Original” acai blend provides just 100 calories, but it also has 12 grams of added sugars (equal to three teaspoons).Likewise, acai bowls are often loaded with higher calorie and sweet toppings like honey or granola. A fully loaded bowl could reach upwards of 800 or 900 calories, Rasmussen notes. May support brain health Need a brainpower pick-me-up? Start eating acai. “The antioxidants in acai counteract the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidation in brain cells, which can negatively affect memory and learning,” Dr. Naidoo says. Risks of eating acai berries Frozen, blended acai are safe to eat, says the NCCIH. However, if you are scheduled to get an MRI or are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor about whether acai is appropriate for […]

Read more at www.msn.com

(Photo credit: Shutterstock.com / Rawpixel.com) According to Blackdoctor.org, 70 percent to 90 percent of caffeine consumption is tied to coffee drinkers, but there are a plethora of other ways to get your daily dose. Among them are tea, soft drinks (Coca-Cola, Pepsi, Dr. Pepper, Mountain Dew, etc.), chocolate, nuts, energy drinks and medications.

As a natural stimulant , coffee impacts the central nervous system, which causes temporary changes in brain function that alters perception, mood, consciousness and behavior.

Below are five health benefits caffeine can and will provide if consumed in moderation.

Erectile dysfunction

Coffee is good to keep the yang up!

All men can potentially suffer from ED, but Black men, for whatever reason, are particularly prone to its ill effects. Good thing for caffeine, as studies show that 85 mg to 170 mg of caffeine consumption per day finds men 42 percent less likely to experience ED in comparison to those who drank less or none.

Promotes hair growth

Caffeine targets a hormone called dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, which stimulates hair growth from the root. DHT actually causes hair loss and caffeine is known to block its effects.

Improves athletic performance

When it comes to looking and performing your best, caffeine is known to boost weight loss and also promote a heightened sense of awareness. Studies show that caffeine, particularly for cyclists, can improve speed and power by adding as little as 5 mg per kilogram to one’s diet.

Fights heart disease

It is no secret that heart disease disproportionately affects Black men. In fact, studies show that Black men have a 70 percent higher risk of developing heart disease than their White counterparts. Fortunately, coffee, which is the most consumed caffeine product on market, is also rich in antioxidants. These properties are said to help protect cells from damage. In turn, more coffee consumption results in a lower risk of mortality, specifically heart disease-related deaths.

Guards against Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the U.S. and the fourth among elderly African Americans. Studies find that drinking two to three 8-ounce cups of coffee each day over a 10-year span decreased symptoms associated with dementia, compared to those who drank less. In fact, 200 mg per day is said to boost long-term memory.

Read more at rollingout.com

Acai berries: The Brazilian “superfruit”

Acai berries are known for their striking deep purple hue. Their mild, not-sweet-at-all taste make them the perfect base for smoothie bowls topped with oats, coconut shavings, and other antioxidant-rich berries . The Brazilian “superfruit” is only increasing in popularity—not just in the U.S., but throughout the world—thanks to its considerable health benefits.

Here’s everything you need to know about the nutrient-dense fruit, including acai berry benefits, nutrition facts, risks, and acai berry recipes. Where do acai berries grow?

The berry with a funny name (pronounced ah-sah-EE ) grows on palm trees in tropical Central and South America, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). A longtime diet staple among indigenous people in the Amazon region, the acai has become something of an “it” food in the U.S.

“Because the fruit contains a pit, it is technically a drupe—a fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone containing a seed,” says nutritional psychiatrist Umadevi Naidoo, MD, the director of nutritional and lifestyle psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of This is Your Brain on Food . Peaches, plums, olives, and cherries are all drupes.

For safe consumption, the outer skin of an acai berry is first soaked to soften it and then mashed to make a paste.

You won’t find fresh acai berries in the produce section of your local grocery store. “The ‘berries’ are fragile and don’t last, so they are frequently exported as frozen fruit puree, powder, or juice,” says Dr. Naidoo. (Here’s what you need to know about chicha morada , a purple corn drink from the Andes.) Acai berry nutrition facts

According to Sambazon , a certified organic and fair trade acai company, a 100-gram serving of pure unsweetened acai puree contains the following:

Calories: 70

Fat: 5 g (6% DV)

Fiber: 3 g (11% DV)

Protein: 1 g

Carbs: 4 g (1% DV)

Calcium: 23 mg (2% DV)

Potassium: 121 mg (2% DV)

Vitamin A: 26 mcg (2% DV) Are acai berries good for you?

The short answer is: Yes. Acai’s rich, purple hue is a sign that it contains anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that may help protect against various diseases .

“Acai is rich in antioxidants, having [several times] the amount found in blueberries,” Dr. Naidoo says. The fruit also beats out cranberries , blackberries , and goji berries .

“What’s interesting about antioxidants is that not only do they help prevent free radical damage from pollution and other everyday stressors, they can also prevent free radicals from doing damage to DNA, which is what leads to cancer and causes aging,” says Emmaline Rasmussen, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Chicago.

Acai alone won’t prevent health problems—it’s only one fruit—but it can be part of a diet that keeps your cells healthy. Potential health benefits of acai berries

Protects against heart disease and diabetes

Anthocyanins are antioxidant compounds responsible for the red, purple, and blue pigments in fruits and veggies like berries, currants, red cabbage, and grapes. Research, including a review of studies published in 2017 in Food & Nutrition Research , suggests these antioxidants may help prevent cardiovascular disease , diabetes, and cancer.

The plant compounds in acai have also been shown to improve the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood vessels dilate and improve circulation, according to a study published in 2016 in Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology . Acai also supplies polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3’s, which may also keep your heart healthy. May help weight loss

While acai can fit into a weight loss plan, there is no research to substantiate claims that acai alone promotes rapid weight loss, according to the NCCIH. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has flagged many acai supplements for deceptive marketing. Be wary of any supplement or powder making weight-loss claims.

On the upside, acai contains zero grams of sugar, which is remarkable for a fruit, says Rasmussen. That means that if you’re on a low-carb diet , acai is a good way to include fruit in your diet. To sweeten things up, add a sugar-free sweetener, like monk fruit or stevia, says Rasmussen. (Try these natural sweeteners and sugar substitutes.)

Even if you’re on a keto diet , you can still fit acai into your meal plan, as it contains just one gram of net carbs, which allows you to get in much-needed fiber. (To figure out net carbs subtract the grams of fiber from the total carbs.) One warning: Due to its lack of natural sweetness acai products can contain added sugar or are blended with fruit juices. For instance, Sambazon’s “Original” acai blend provides just 100 calories, but it also has 12 grams of added sugars (equal to three teaspoons).Likewise, acai bowls are often loaded with higher calorie and sweet toppings like honey or granola. A fully loaded bowl could reach upwards of 800 or 900 calories, Rasmussen notes. May support brain health Need a brainpower pick-me-up? Start eating acai. “The antioxidants in acai counteract the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidation in brain cells, which can negatively affect memory and learning,” Dr. Naidoo says. (These are the worst foods for your brain .) Risks of eating acai berries Frozen, blended acai are safe to eat, says the NCCIH. However, if you are scheduled to get an MRI or are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor about whether acai is appropriate for you.If you are planning on taking acai supplements, choose a reputable, high-quality brand. And discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor and whether a supplement is the best way to achieve your health goals. Great ways to eat acai and quick recipes to try Here are some delicious ways to eat acai: Add acai powder to baked goods, Dr. Naidoo suggests. Mix a packet or half packet into a smoothie with other fruits. Rasmussen particularly likes the taste of acai with frozen blueberries and bananas, along with a half scoop of protein powder. (Too much protein powder can taste chalky with acai, she explains.) Try […]

Read more at www.msn.com

Acai berries: The Brazilian “superfruit”

Acai berries are known for their striking deep purple hue. Their mild, not-sweet-at-all taste make them the perfect base for smoothie bowls topped with oats, coconut shavings, and other antioxidant-rich berries . The Brazilian “superfruit” is only increasing in popularity—not just in the U.S., but throughout the world—thanks to its considerable health benefits.

Here’s everything you need to know about the nutrient-dense fruit, including acai berry benefits, nutrition facts, risks, and acai berry recipes. Where do acai berries grow?

The berry with a funny name (pronounced ah-sah-EE ) grows on palm trees in tropical Central and South America, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). A longtime diet staple among indigenous people in the Amazon region, the acai has become something of an “it” food in the U.S.

“Because the fruit contains a pit, it is technically a drupe—a fleshy fruit with thin skin and a central stone containing a seed,” says nutritional psychiatrist Umadevi Naidoo, MD, the director of nutritional and lifestyle psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and author of This is Your Brain on Food . Peaches, plums, olives, and cherries are all drupes.

For safe consumption, the outer skin of an acai berry is first soaked to soften it and then mashed to make a paste.

You won’t find fresh acai berries in the produce section of your local grocery store. “The ‘berries’ are fragile and don’t last, so they are frequently exported as frozen fruit puree, powder, or juice,” says Dr. Naidoo. (Here’s what you need to know about chicha morada , a purple corn drink from the Andes.) Acai berry nutrition facts

According to Sambazon , a certified organic and fair trade acai company, a 100-gram serving of pure unsweetened acai puree contains the following:

Calories: 70

Fat: 5 g (6% DV)

Fiber: 3 g (11% DV)

Protein: 1 g

Carbs: 4 g (1% DV)

Calcium: 23 mg (2% DV)

Potassium: 121 mg (2% DV)

Vitamin A: 26 mcg (2% DV) Are acai berries good for you?

The short answer is: Yes. Acai’s rich, purple hue is a sign that it contains anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that may help protect against various diseases .

“Acai is rich in antioxidants, having [several times] the amount found in blueberries,” Dr. Naidoo says. The fruit also beats out cranberries , blackberries , and goji berries .

“What’s interesting about antioxidants is that not only do they help prevent free radical damage from pollution and other everyday stressors, they can also prevent free radicals from doing damage to DNA, which is what leads to cancer and causes aging,” says Emmaline Rasmussen, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Chicago.

Acai alone won’t prevent health problems—it’s only one fruit—but it can be part of a diet that keeps your cells healthy. Potential health benefits of acai berries

Protects against heart disease and diabetes

Anthocyanins are antioxidant compounds responsible for the red, purple, and blue pigments in fruits and veggies like berries, currants, red cabbage, and grapes. Research, including a review of studies published in 2017 in Food & Nutrition Research , suggests these antioxidants may help prevent cardiovascular disease , diabetes, and cancer.

The plant compounds in acai have also been shown to improve the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood vessels dilate and improve circulation, according to a study published in 2016 in Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology . Acai also supplies polyunsaturated fatty acids, including omega-3’s, which may also keep your heart healthy. May help weight loss

While acai can fit into a weight loss plan, there is no research to substantiate claims that acai alone promotes rapid weight loss, according to the NCCIH. In fact, the Federal Trade Commission has flagged many acai supplements for deceptive marketing. Be wary of any supplement or powder making weight-loss claims.

On the upside, acai contains zero grams of sugar, which is remarkable for a fruit, says Rasmussen. That means that if you’re on a low-carb diet , acai is a good way to include fruit in your diet. To sweeten things up, add a sugar-free sweetener, like monk fruit or stevia, says Rasmussen. (Try these natural sweeteners and sugar substitutes.)

Even if you’re on a keto diet , you can still fit acai into your meal plan, as it contains just one gram of net carbs, which allows you to get in much-needed fiber. (To figure out net carbs subtract the grams of fiber from the total carbs.) One warning: Due to its lack of natural sweetness acai products can contain added sugar or are blended with fruit juices. For instance, Sambazon’s “Original” acai blend provides just 100 calories, but it also has 12 grams of added sugars (equal to three teaspoons).Likewise, acai bowls are often loaded with higher calorie and sweet toppings like honey or granola. A fully loaded bowl could reach upwards of 800 or 900 calories, Rasmussen notes. May support brain health Need a brainpower pick-me-up? Start eating acai. “The antioxidants in acai counteract the damaging effects of inflammation and oxidation in brain cells, which can negatively affect memory and learning,” Dr. Naidoo says. (These are the worst foods for your brain .) Risks of eating acai berries Frozen, blended acai are safe to eat, says the NCCIH. However, if you are scheduled to get an MRI or are pregnant or nursing, talk to your doctor about whether acai is appropriate for you.If you are planning on taking acai supplements, choose a reputable, high-quality brand. And discuss potential drug interactions with your doctor and whether a supplement is the best way to achieve your health goals. Great ways to eat acai and quick recipes to try Here are some delicious ways to eat acai: Add acai powder to baked goods, Dr. Naidoo suggests. Mix a packet or half packet into a smoothie with other fruits. Rasmussen particularly likes the taste of acai with frozen blueberries and bananas, along with a half scoop of protein powder. (Too much protein powder can taste chalky with acai, she explains.) Try […]

Read more at www.msn.com

Sure, you know that eating junk food, avoiding exercise, and drinking like a fish isn’t going to do any favors for your health, especially during a pandemic. However, did you know there are many other habits, rituals, and practices most of us engage in that are also damaging our well-being—only we have no idea? Read on to hear the top health and medical experts around the country reveal all the ways that you’re inadvertently harming yourself. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had Coronavirus . Shutterstock You might think you are eating a super-healthy diet, but are in fact consuming dangerous chemicals. “Most grain and soy products in North America are sprayed with glyphosate, a known carcinogen and gut microbiome disruptor,” explains Dr. Steven Gundry, MD , medical director at The International Heart and Lung Institute Center for Restorative Medicine and the New York Times best-selling author of The Plant Paradox and The Plant Paradox Cookbook . Basically, we unwittingly eat glyphosate while eating “healthy” whole grain products. He points out that even new plant-based hamburger meat products may have glyphosate in them—as well as most of our animal products like chicken, beef or pork, as most are fed with these same tainted grains and/or soy.

The Rx: In order to avoid eating foods tainted by glyphosate, there are a number of things you can do. Eat organically, eat locally by shopping at your farmer’s market for meat and produce, or grow your own produce. Shutterstock Dr. Gundry points out that the vast majority of whole grain products are loaded with plant proteins called lectins which are part of the plant’s defense system against being eaten. “As The Plant Paradox series show, lectins are major causes of leaky gut, arthritis, depression, weight gain and brain and heart disease as well as autoimmune diseases,” he explains.

The Rx: Reduce your gluten consumption. “As I have reported at The American Heart Association, most patients who remove gluten and other lectin-containing foods resolve autoimmune issues and leaky gut within months,” he says. Shutterstock Artificial sweeteners might be a zero-calorie sugar-free alternative, but they aren’t doing any wonders for your digestive system. “Most people who use artificial sweeteners have no idea that they are destroying and altering their gut bacteria, the microbiome with every packet, the same bacteria that have the potential to keep them lean and happy,” Dr. Gundry says.

The Rx: Try to avoid artificial sweeteners. If you need a boost of sweet, you can always opt for a natural sweetener such as stevia. Shutterstock You might not realize it, but certain positions while sleeping can damage your health. “Many people will sleep every night on their sides in the fetal position. While this seems harmless, this sleeping position can actually be detrimental to your health,” points out David Greuner, MD , of NYC Surgical Associates. “When you sleep like this, it cuts your diaphragm’s free range down which can cause back pain as well as issues with your lungs.”

The Rx: Try another sleeping position. According to the National Sleep Foundation , the healthiest way to sleep in on your back. Shutterstock It can be hard to remember to drink enough fluids. But try and remember it can be hazardous to your health. “Vein insufficiency can be amplified due to dehydration,” explains Dr. Greuner. “When you are hydrated your blood is thinner and flows better. When your blood is thicker, it can make vein insufficiency problems worse.”

The Rx: Drink lots of fluids! The Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Sciences recommends 2.7 (11 cups) liters to 3.7 liters (nearly 16 cups) per day . “Make sure to stay hydrated to keep your entire body healthy including your veins!” says Dr. Greuner. Shutterstock Just because a product is called “organic” doesn’t mean it is good for you. “Many packaged products are highly processed, and may contain many unhealthy ingredients,” points out Talia Segal Fidler , MS, HHC, AADP, nutritionist at The Lodge at Woodloch. For example, they may contain a high sugar content. “Even though it is organic, it is still sugar and still a processed product.”

The Rx: Remember that processed food is processed food and sugar is sugar—even if it has an organic label on it. Shutterstock Most of us were raised believing that drinking fruit juice was actually good for you. However, Fidler points out that many fruit juices are loaded with sugar and high fructose corn syrup. “There are hardly any connections between the fruits and that beverage,” she explains. “You are basically only consuming sugar!”

The Rx: If you are going to drink juice, look for ones that are 100 percent juice and no added sugar. Better yet, eat a piece of fruit instead, so you get the belly-filling fiber. Shutterstock Eating yogurt that has added fruits, or giving it to children thinking it is a good thing, is pretty common. Unfortunately, Fidler points out that those “fruits” are loaded with unhealthy sugar which defeats the purpose.

The Rx: “A better choice is to buy plain organic yogurt and add freshly cut fruits to it,” Fidler suggests. “For extra sweetness you can add a bit of local honey.” Shutterstock Sure, many fish are high in good fats and can be a great addition to your diet. However, Fidler points out that size matters when it comes to just how healthy a swimmer is. “The larger the fish, the more likely that it may have a high mercury levels and other toxins,” she explains. This is due to the fact that the fish has lived longer and accumulated toxins overtime.

The Rx: Fidler suggests eating smaller fish, such as sardines, mackerel anchovies etc. Or, opt for a deep-water fish that isn’t exposed to the same toxins. Shutterstock While farm raised salmon may boast health benefits in the form of omega 3 fatty acids, they can also be contaminated with toxins, explains […]

Read more at www.eatthis.com

Dried fruits and nuts have always been an integral part of the Indian diet. They are considered to be a powerhouse of energy. You may remember your mother advising you to snack on soaked almonds or dates to sharpen your memory. Then there is Diwali, when we become surrounded by dried fruit gift packs. Even pregnant women are encouraged to add dried fruits to their daily diet.

A recent study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics concluded that regular intake of dried fruits not only increases the quality of your diet but also promotes the cardiometabolic health of the body. The study also found that while the participants who consumed more dried fruits had a higher calorie intake, their BMI and waist circumference was lower, indicating a more active lifestyle.

Here are some health benefits of adding dried fruits into your diet:

1. Reduce the risk of various diseases, keeps gut healthy

Dried fruits are densely packed with fiber and antioxidants, which help fight obesity and diabetes. Antioxidants help in preventing cancer and gut diseases. Phenol-rich dried fruits such as apricots and raisins are proven to decrease the chance of heart diseases, diabetes and degenerative brain diseases (like dementia). People suffering from constipation can get benefit by adding dried figs to their regular diet.

2. Natural sugar substitute and fights anemia

Dried dates, easily available throughout the year, can be a great source of energy after a long day or in preparation for one. They are rich in natural sugars such as fructose, sucrose and glucose and thus can be an instant source of energy. They can be used as a sugar substitute since they are less processed and naturally sweet. They are an excellent source of iron and that makes them good for preventing anemia. They are also great for the development of the fetus when consumed during pregnancy.

3. Improves heart health and eyesight, fights urine infection

Dried cranberries have a high amount of anthocyanins. This compound gives cranberries their dark red colour and is proven to have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the Nutrition Journal stated that anthocyanins can be beneficial in reducing recurrent urinary tract infections in susceptible women. They also improve eyesight and prevent cardiovascular and liver diseases.

4. Nutrition-rich snack alternative

Some research also states that the sun-drying process increases the concentration of antioxidants and phytonutrients in dried fruits and can be considered as a concentrated form of fresh fruits. As they are high in nutrients, even a small amount could be of huge benefit. This makes them a convenient and healthy snack option.

5. Longer shelf life so you can have any time of the year

Dried fruits have a longer shelf life than fresh fruit, which makes them accessible throughout the year. For example, dried mangoes can be enjoyed throughout the year with all the benefits of mango.

6. Promotes overall development

Dried fruits can be a treasured source of micronutrients, such as calcium, vitamins and minerals, that help in the proper development of bones and muscles during the growing ages. Adding them to the daily diet of children could promote a healthy height and weight.

What to consider before you consume dried fruits

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when consuming dried fruits. Depending on the portion size, dried fruits could be a double-sided sword. Dried fruits should be consumed within a limit as they are heavily packed with nutrients and a concentrated version of fresh fruits. Try to avoid the dried fruits that are coated with sugar as these can have a reverse effect on diabetes and obesity. Also, people should be aware of any associated allergies they may have before consuming dried fruits.

For more information, read our article on Anjeer .

Health articles on News18 are written by myUpchar.com, India’s first and biggest resource for verified medical information. At myUpchar, researchers and journalists work with doctors to bring you information on all things health.

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