Tag Archives: good health

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess! – Issue #8

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facts on nutritionHello! This eighth issue of “Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess!” has some fascinating facts about the foods we eat.  Here we go!

  1. Chia Seeds Expand Up to 12 Times Their Weight

Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in water, forming a gel-like substance. This property makes them excellent for healthy hydration and a great addition to smoothies and puddings.

The seeds are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which strengthen immunity, and they also contain good amounts of fiber and protein.

To create an easy and creamy chia pudding, combine 4 tablespoons of chia seeds with one cup of your choice of milk (almond, coconut, or dairy) and 1 teaspoons of a sweetener (such as maple syrup or honey). Stir thoroughly, allow it to sit for 10–15 minutes, stir again, and then chill in the refrigerator for 4 hours or overnight.

Reference: Nieman, D. C. (2009). Influence of Chia Seed on the Immune System: Preliminary Results. Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism

  1. Why Do Apples Float? And Why Eat the Peels?

Ever wondered why apples float in water? It’s because they are composed of about 25% air. This makes them buoyant (staying afloat in water) and perfect for games like apple bobbing (which is grabbing floating apples with your teeth!). They’re also packed with fiber and vitamin C, making them a healthy snack.

Apple peels contain the most nutrients. Most of the apple’s fiber and vitamins are concentrated in the skin.  Granny Smith apples, due to their lower sugar and higher fiber content, may positively affect the gut health and also aid in weight control.

Reference: Boyer, J., & Liu, R. H. Apple phyto (plant) chemicals and their health benefits. Nutrition Journal

  1. Artichokes Are One of the Oldest Foods Known to Humans!

Artichokes have been consumed since ancient times and are believed to be one of the oldest foods known to humans. An artichoke is known as a “thistle plant.”  A thistle is a wild, spiny plant covered with sharp points that serve as protection against animals that may try to eat it. Although many thistles are labeled as weeds, certain varieties are edible and quite tasty—such as the globe artichoke.

Artichokes provide a wide range of health benefits, including promoting healthy liver function and detoxification, helping reduce cholesterol, balancing blood pressure, and improving digestive health.

Reference: Lattanzio, V. Globe artichoke: A functional food and source of nutraceutical ingredients. Journal of Functional Foods

  1. Green Peas Are a Source of Protein

Green peas are one of the few plant-based sources of protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. They are also rich in vitamins A, C, K, and several B vitamins.

Peas support heart health, the immune system (high in vitamin C), bone health, and eye health (high in lutein).

Reference: FAO Complete Protein Profile of Legumes. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition interesting? From the ancient artichoke to the buoyant apple, these fun facts highlight the amazing world of food.  We will continue to bring you more surprising and inspiring nutritional facts to help you on your journey to healthy eating. Stay tuned!

About Nutrition Breakthroughs

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess! – Issue #7

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fun facts on nutritionHello, food lovers. It’s time for another exciting edition of “Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess.”  Prepare to be delighted by some intriguing and entertaining facts about the foods we enjoy. Let’s get started!

1. Almonds Are Seeds, Not Nuts

Despite being commonly referred to as nuts, almonds are actually seeds of the fruit of the almond tree. They are packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, and vitamin E, making them a nutritious snack. Almonds also contain magnesium and have also been proven to reduce overall hunger and not affect body weight when eaten.

Reference: A study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

  1. Eggplants Are Technically Berries

Eggplants, also known as aubergines, are technically classified as berries. They belong to the nightshade family, along with tomatoes and potatoes. Eggplants are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.  The main antioxidants for good health are vitamins E, A and C.  Foods with these nutrients can protect the body from unstable molecules that contribute to aging and disease.  So, enjoy some eggplant as a nutritious addition to your diet.

Reference: Raigón, M. D., (2008). Influence of organic and conventional cultivation methods on compounds and mineral content of eggplant fruits. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

  1. Red Bell Peppers Have More Vitamin C Than Green Ones

Red bell peppers are simply ripened green peppers, and they contain significantly more vitamin C.  A single red bell pepper can provide up to three times the daily recommended intake of vitamin C (the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C is about 80 milligrams).  Red bell peppers can boost the immune system and enhance skin health, as vitamin C helps the body make collagen.

Reference: Marin, A. (2004). Profile of compounds in green and red peppers  grown in different types of soil. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.

  1. Pine Nuts Come from Pine Cones

Pine nuts are the edible seeds of pine trees, and they are actually found inside pine cones. Extracting them is quite labor-intensive, which is why they can be pricey. These little seeds are packed with protein, healthy fats, and magnesium.

Reference: Evaristo, I. (2010). Pine nuts: A review of recent clinical research.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition fascinating? From the hidden pine nut to the berry-like eggplant, these fun facts on nutrition highlight the amazing world of food.  We will continue to bring you more of these surprising and inspiring facts to help you on your journey to healthier eating. Stay tuned and happy munching!

About Nutrition Breakthroughs

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess! – Issue #6

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fun facts on nutrition

Hello, and welcome back to another edition of “Fun Facts on Nutrition!”  Get ready to be amazed by some more fun and fascinating facts about the food we eat. Let’s get started..

1. Beetroot Juice Can Boost Athletic Performance

Beetroot juice, made from red beets, is a favorite among athletes for its ability to enhance performance.

It is rich in nitrates, which are natural compounds found in vegetables like spinach, leafy greens and beets.  

Your body converts dietary nitrates into a compound which can improve blood flow, reduce oxygen use, and increase overall endurance. Drink up and feel the beet!

Reference: Jones, A. M., & Vanhatalo, A. (2017). The Physiology of Nitrate Supplementation in Human Exercise and Sport. Annual Review of Nutrition, 37, 447-473.

2. Blueberries Can Improve Memory

Blueberries are often referred to as brain berries due to their memory-boosting properties. They are packed with antioxidants which can improve memory and cognitive function.

Antioxidants are natural substances in fruits and vegetables that may prevent or delay some types of cell damage and lower the risk of many diseases.  Antioxidants are also concentrated in dietary supplements like vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

Snack on some blueberries soon for a good brain boost!

Reference: Krikorian, R., et al. (2010). Blueberry supplementation improves memory in older adults. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 58(7), 3996-4000.

3. Pumpkin Seeds Are a Natural Mood Booster

Pumpkin seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that helps our bodies make serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter.  Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that our body can’t function without.

Their job is to carry chemical signals from one neuron (nerve cell) to the next target cell. The next target cell can be another nerve cell, a muscle cell or a gland. Consuming pumpkin seeds boosts this action and can help improve our mood and promote a sense of well-being. Happy snacking!

Reference: Pumpkin seeds as nutraceutical and functional food ingredient for future: A review, Grain & Oil Science and Technology.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition fascinating? From athletic-boosting beetroots to mood-enhancing pumpkin seeds, these fun facts highlight the amazing world of food.  We’ will regularly bring you more of these surprising and inspiring nutritional facts to help you on your journey to the healthiest life.

About Nutrition Breakthroughs

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Indoor Air Quality: Ways to Improve it for Good Health

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air quality

In today’s fast-paced world, indoor air quality and the quality of the outdoor air, play a key role in our overall health.

The State of Tennessee Health Department says: “Breathing clean air can lessen the possibility of disease from stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer, as well as chronic and acute respiratory illnesses such as asthma.”

Studies have shown that breathing clean, healthy air can significantly boost mental clarity, improve sleep quality, and strengthen the immune system.

Whether you are inside your home or taking a break in nature, making mindful choices regarding air quality can make a dramatic impact on your well-being.

Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, and exposure to harmful contaminants, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can compromise respiratory health. VOCs are found in paint, building materials, solvents, carpets, chemicals and more.

Air purifiers are one solution that can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and mold spores, providing immediate relief for allergy sufferers (American Lung Association, 2021).

Installing high-quality air conditioning systems with HEPA filters can also help regulate temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of mold growth and ensuring that the air inside your home remains clean and fresh.

Sleeping in clean air is essential for restoring the body. Research shows that people who sleep in environments with cleaner air experience fewer disturbances and wake up more refreshed (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2020).

Keeping bedroom windows open for a short period each day or using air purifiers while sleeping helps reduce carbon dioxide levels, allowing the body to oxygenate more efficiently.

Outdoor activities also play a critical role in promoting lung health and reducing stress. Spending time outside in natural sunlight provides the body with vitamin D, which has been linked to improved immune function and mood regulation (The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2019).

Grounding, or walking barefoot on the grass, has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and balance the body’s natural rhythms by reconnecting with the earth’s electrons (Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012).

According to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “The possibility exists that magnesium deficiency contributes to pulmonary (lung) complications. During the past few years, there has been an increase in calcium consumption in the US population but little change in magnesium intake, which has caused an imbalance in the calcium: magnesium ratio.”

By combining good indoor air quality practices with time spent in nature and adequate intake of magnesium, you can promote a holistic approach to health and well-being. Taking steps to improve the air you breathe will help reduce respiratory issues, improve mental clarity, and support a strong immune system.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint support, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess! – #2

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fun facts on nutritionWelcome back to another edition of our “Fun Facts on Nutrition!” Get ready to be intrigued by some fascinating and little-known facts about food. Here’s to your enjoyment of a fun and nutritious day.

  1. Potatoes Were the First Food Grown in Space

In 1995, NASA and the University of Wisconsin collaborated to grow potatoes in space aboard the space shuttle Columbia. This experiment was part of a larger effort to develop sustainable food sources for long-term space missions. Talk about out-of-this-world nutrition.

Reference: Wheeler, R. M. (2010). Plants for human life support in space: From Myers to Mars. Gravitational and Space Biology Bulletin, 23(2), 25-35.

2. Bell Peppers Have More Vitamin C Than Oranges

While oranges are famous for their vitamin C content, bell peppers actually contain even more. A single cup of chopped red bell pepper provides nearly three times the vitamin C of an orange. Plus, they’re low in calories and rich in health-giving plant chemicals known as antioxidants, making them a perfect snack.

Reference: Howard, L. R., et al. (2000). Antioxidant activity and fruit quality changes in bell pepper. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 48(4), 1713-1720.

3. Avocados Are Actually Berries and Have Many Benefits

Surprise. Avocados are technically berries. They contain one large seed, fitting the botanical definition of a berry. Avocados are also nutritional powerhouses, full of healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and K.

In addition, there are many studies showing the benefits of avocado for heart health, as well as for weight management and anti-aging effects.

Reference: Dreher, M. L., & Davenport, A. J. (2013). Hass avocado composition and potential health effects. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 53(7), 738-750.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition interesting? These fun facts on nutrition highlight the amazing world of food. We’ll regularly bring you inspiring nutritional facts for your excellent health.

This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Top Five Healthy Food Choices

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This natural health info on the top five healthy food choices is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy

healthy food

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess! – Issue #1

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Greetings to you,

Welcome to the first edition of our “Fun Facts on Nutrition” series. Get ready to be intrigued and inspired by some fascinating and little-known tidbits about the food we eat.

  1. Carrots Were Originally Purple

Here’s a fun one: the original color of carrots was purple, not orange. Orange carrots were developed by Dutch farmers in the 17th century through selective breeding to honor the House of Orange (the royal family of the Netherlands). Purple carrots are still a popular option and are rich in plant chemicals that are healthy for the heart and act to delay cellular aging.

Reference: Simon, P. W. (2000). Domestication, Historical Development, and Modern Breeding of Carrot. Plant Breeding Reviews, 19, 157-190.

  1. Honey Never Spoils

Archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still perfectly edible! Honey’s low water content and acidic pH create an inhospitable environment for bacteria, making it one of the few foods that can last indefinitely.

Reference: Snowdon, J. A., & Cliver, D. O. (1996). Microorganisms in honey. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 31(1-3), 1-26.

  1. Tomatoes Were Once Considered Poisonous

Believe it or not, during the 18th century, Europeans considered tomatoes to be poisonous. This was due to their similarity to the deadly belladonna nightshade herbal plant. It wasn’t until the late 1700s that tomatoes became a staple in the European diet. Today, they’re celebrated for their high vitamin C and lycopene content, a red-colored plant chemical which is good for the heart and can also help to slim the waistline.

References: 1. Rick, C. M. (1980). Tomato. Economic Botany, 34(2), 107-129.
2. A study on tomato juice from the China Medical University in Taiwan.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Join us next week for some more “Fun Facts on Nutrition.”  Here’s to your good health and well-being.

This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

5 New Years Health Tips from Nutrition Breakthroughs

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new year health tipsNew Years Greetings to you! Here are five New Year health tips for increasing your good health in the New Year:

1. Choose healthy foods: Increase salads, cooked vegetables and raw fruits.  Eat healthy, preferably organic proteins such as grass-fed meat, wild Alaskan salmon, organic poultry, sardines, and organic eggs.  For carbs, the healthiest ones are veggies, fruits, nuts, seeds, yams, squash and potatoes.  Drink lots of pure water in between meals.

2. Take a walk each day, or a couple of short walks.  This supports virtually every organ and system in your body to stay strong.  It also detoxifies impurities and ease aches and pains.

Walking is also proven to help good sleep and remedy insomnia.  Scientists suspect that walking helps to set our biological clock into a consistent sleep pattern.

Walking can also help increase “endorphins”, which are protein-like chemicals made in the brain that can have a relaxing effect, a pain-relieving effect, and also reduce stress and increase well-being.

Exercise such as walking may also be one of the most effective ways to reduce menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and heart symptoms, according to a study from the Annals (Journal) of Behavioral Medicine.

3. Take supplements:  Fish oil helps reduce inflammation and supports the eyes and brain; digestive enzymes increase absorption of foods and reduce gas; MSM remedies joint stiffness and arthritis, and Sleep Minerals II provides calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D in some highly usable forms to support good sleep.

4. Reduce stress.  Take breaks to do artistic or creative things that you enjoy.  When communicating with others, express things, and receive communications from people in a positive, upbeat way.

Support for stress can be found in certain vitamins.  The adrenal glands are known as the “stress glands”.  Vitamin B-5, also known as pantothenic acid, is used by the adrenal gland as a key component to manufacture its hormones.   A deficiency of B-5 can result in impaired adrenal function and more physical and mental stress.

Regarding vitamin C, the highest amounts of vitamin C in the body are found in the adrenals and this vitamin is used to make all of the various adrenal hormones. When one is faced with stress, vitamin C is rapidly used up.

5. Look to the future.  We’ve all done some great things in this year just past.  Let’s acknowledge our best achievements and take pride in them, and then turn our sights toward the year to come.  It’s a new canvas to paint our dreams on, so take out those brushes and create some masterpieces worthy of your signature!

Yours in good health,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II

Nutrition Breakthroughs: To Your Good Health and Sleep for Holidays

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holiday stressHoliday Greetings to you,

Nutrition Breakthroughs wishes you and your family the most festive, rewarding, pleasurable and healthy holiday season.  And here’s to the realization of your hopes and dreams and goals in the New Year.

Our purpose is to provide you with high quality nutrition articles and natural health products that contribute to your good health, energy, restful sleep and well-being.  Enjoy the season!

Best of health,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More