Tag Archives: nutrition breakthroughs sleep minerals

Benefits of Cilantro for Better Sleep, Calming Anxiety, Inflammation and More

Posted on by

benefits of cilantro

Cilantro is an herb with small green, fan-shaped leaves and long, tender stalks. It also goes by the name of coriander, although coriander is actually a spice derived from the dried seeds of cilantro.  

The benefits of cilantro are many.  It’s rich with vitamins and minerals and has many proven health and therapeutic benefits, as well as a variety of cooking and seasoning uses.

What are the vitamins in cilantro?

The Nutrition Data website writes that cilantro is a very good source of the B vitamins.  It is also high in zinc, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.

What are the health benefits of cilantro?

According to Medical News Today, cilantro fights pain and inflammation, enhances skin health and has anti-fungal and anti-cancer properties.  Per Dr. Josh Axe, this plant removes heavy metals from the body, cleanses the urinary tract, settles digestive upset, protects against food poisoning and acts as a sedative.

Cilantro naturally calms anxiety and helps sleep

In studies from medical schools and universities in India, cilantro has been found effective for calming anxiety and improving sleep due to its qualities as a natural sedative.  One animal study from the School of Pharmacy in Jaipur, India discovered that there were dose-dependent effects from cilantro as an anti-anxiety and relaxation agent, meaning that when more was taken, the more pronounced the results were.

In this study, when the higher dose of cilantro extract was given, it reduced anxiety and provided relaxation equally as well as the prescription drug valium.  The side effects of valium include agitation, memory problems, weakness of the muscles, confusion and hallucinations — so taking extracts of cilantro could avoid these effects.

In a report from the Indian Journal of Pharmacology, the author writes that cilantro seed oil contains linalool as its major essential oil component. Essential oils contain the plant’s active “lifelike” properties and are said to be the “blood” of the plant.  Linalool has marked benefits for the nervous system, including sedative and anti-convulsant properties.  In human studies, linalool was shown to have calming, relaxing, and anti-anxiety effects.

What is cilantro used for?

It can be used to make sauces, dressings, salsa, guacamole, soups, stews, curry dishes with meat or seafood, and also added to salads, rice dishes and vegetable dishes. It’s best to use cilantro raw, as the benefits of cilantro may be reduced when it is introduced to heat.  Add the freshly chopped cilantro to any heated recipes just prior to serving. The leaves can also be soaked in cool water and then strained and used as a tea.

As a note, be sure to buy cilantro for these benefits rather than parsley.  Cilantro can also be called Chinese parsley or Mexican parsley, so take care to buy regular, fresh cilantro in the produce section.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition news and a supplier of natural remedies since 2002.  Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D.

Tammy M. of Meridian, Idaho says: “I was plagued with insomnia for five years and desperate for a breakthrough. Nothing has helped me more than Sleep Minerals — I’m so sold on them I could go door to door promoting them. I’m 60 years old and have never slept so soundly.”

Is coriander and cilantro the same?

Cilantro is an herb with small green leaves and long, tender stalks.  It also goes by the name of coriander, although coriander is actually a spice derived from the dried seeds of cilantro. When the cilantro plant flowers, the seeds produced are called coriander seeds. The leaves and flowers have very different tastes and uses in cooking.

What are the vitamins in cilantro?

The Nutrition Data website writes that cilantro is a very good source of the B vitamins.  It is also high in zinc, dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and manganese.

Does cilantro make you sleepy?

In studies from medical schools and universities in India, cilantro has been found effective for calming anxiety and improving sleep due to its qualities as a natural sedative. One animal study from the School of Pharmacy in Jaipur, India discovered that there were dose-dependent effects from cilantro as an anti-anxiety and relaxation agent, meaning that when more was taken, the more pronounced the results were.

Foods to Sleep: Top 3 Vegetables for Sweet Dreams

Posted on by

foods to sleepThis article could also have the title: “If you want to sleep like a baby, start by eating like a bunny!”  There are some very special vegetables that are great foods to sleep better.

If you’re not a vegetable lover, start by just picking one of these and putting some delicious dressing or sauce on it.

Here are three of the best vegetables for a good night’s sleep and having more energy in your days, and there’s also some lifestyle tips that will leave you feeling more refreshed and energized in the morning.

  1. Leafy Greens

The motto of this section is “Don’t leaf your sleep to chance – eat your greens!”  Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and other lettuces are excellent sources of magnesium, a mineral that can help promote relaxation and better sleep. A magnesium deficiency is usually seen as agitated sleep with frequent nighttime awakenings.  Leafy greens also contain calcium, a mineral that helps the brain to produce melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

  1. Sweet Potatoes

This section is titled: “Sweet dreams are made of sweet potatoes and their prized potassium.” Sweet potatoes are good foods to sleep more deeply as they are rich in complex carbohydrates.  Unlike simple carbs like white flour and sugar products, sweet potatoes can help promote sleep by increasing levels of the amino acid tryptophan in the bloodstream. They are also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce wakings in the night.  A deficiency of potassium can interfere with restful sleep due to the potential for stiff muscles or muscle spasms in bed.

  1. Broccoli

The motto here is: “Say goodnight to insomnia with the help of broccoli’s dream blend of vitamin C and calcium!”  Broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, which can help reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and promote relaxation.

Other good sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, tomatoes and white potatoes.  Broccoli also contains calcium, which is directly related to our cycles of sleep. In one study, published in the European Neurology Journal, researchers found that calcium levels in the body are higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase,

  1. Lifestyle Tips for Better Sleep

In addition to including healthy vegetables in your diet, there are also a few lifestyle tips that can help improve the quality and quantity of the sleep you get:

  • Establish a consistent sleep schedule and stick to it, even on weekends.
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book.
  • Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and large meals before bedtime.
  • Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet.
  • Limit screen time before bed and avoid using electronic devices in bed.

By eating these wonderful vegetables and making some simple lifestyle changes, you can help improve the quality of your sleep and wake up ready to tackle the day!

This article was written for you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

Tammy M. of Meridian, Idaho says: “I was plagued with insomnia for five years and desperate for a breakthrough. Nothing has helped me more than Sleep Minerals II — I’m so sold on them I could go door to door promoting them. I’m 60 years old and have never slept so soundly.”

For more info, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Antidepressants for Sleep vs Natural Sleep Aids

Posted on by

antidepressants vs natural sleep aidsGreetings to you,

The video below describes the pros and cons between antidepressant drugs for sleep and natural sleep aids.

Its interesting to note that the journal “Sleep” reported that prescriptions for sleeping drugs have decreased by 54%, but that antidepressants for sleep have increased by a surprising 146%.

While most people would prefer to take a natural, non-addictive remedy without uncomfortable side-effects, there is a scarcity of effective natural options, as well as a lack of education and information available to people outside of their medical doctors offices.

Have a look at the 3-minute video below to learn more about the science behind natural sleep aids that work, as well as some of the side effects of antidepressants.

This video was created by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

Alex R. of Ramseur, North Carolina says: “Sleep Minerals II has been a blessing for me. It has given me the opportunity to withdraw from a highly addictive sleep medication over time, and has allowed me to sleep while going through this most difficult ordeal. What’s great about it is it doesn’t lose its effectiveness, which is something that happens with medications. I am most thankful for this product.”

Sleep well!

 

Study Shows “Beauty Sleep” Vital to Attractiveness (Plus Some Good Sleep Aids)

Posted on by

beauty sleepIs “Beauty Sleep” a myth or a reality?  If you want to look attractive and healthy, the best thing you can do is get a good night’s sleep, according to recent research from the British Medical Journal

For the first time, say the authors, there is scientific backing for the concept of beauty sleep.

The study that was led by John Axelsson from the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, investigated the relationship between sleep and perceptions of attractiveness and health. The authors believe this research is important in today’s 24 hour society with the number of people increasing who are suffering from sleep disorders and disturbed sleep.

23 participants between the ages of 18 to 31 took part in the study. They were photographed between 2pm and 3pm on two occasions, once after normal sleep and once after being deprived of sleep. Smokers were excluded from the research and no alcohol was allowed for two days prior to the experiment.

The photographs were taken in a well-lit room and the distance to the camera was fixed. During both photography sessions participants wore no make-up, had their hair loose (combed back if they had long hair) and underwent similar cleaning or shaving procedures. They were asked to have a relaxed, neutral facial expression for both photos.

Sixty-five observers, who were blinded to the sleep status of the subjects, rated the photographs for attractiveness and whether the individuals looked healthy or unhealthy and tired or not tired.

The results?  The observers judged that the faces of the sleep-deprived participants looked less healthy, less attractive and more tired.  The study authors then concluded that the facial signals of sleep deprived people can be very telling – affecting their appearance, their attractiveness and how healthy they look.

A comment from the blog author Nutrition Breakthroughs: To preserve your “Beauty Sleep” and attractiveness at those times when you’re experiencing insomnia or sleeplessness, try taking some natural minerals to soothe you to sleep.

A popular example of this is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This natural sleep aid contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, which are the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for heart health, restless legs syndrome, bone strength, menopause insomnia and teenage insomnia.  It comes in a softgel form for rapid and complete absorption.

Wendy R. of Honolulu, Hawaii says: “My friends know that I’ve had chronic insomnia for a long time. Surprisingly, I received the Sleep Minerals II and began taking it and found this thing really works. In the past if I ever got a good nights sleep I’d say ‘I slept like a baby’, but that’s the wrong comparison. Those little guys get up every two hours. I am actually beginning to sleep like an adult — a much-rested adult.”

To learn more, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.
———–
Source: The British Medical Journal: http://www.bmj.com/content/341/bmj.c6614

Studies Show Olive Oil for Sleep and Strong Bones

Posted on by

olive oil for sleepStudies are showing that olive oil is beneficial for many aspects of our health.

Olive oil can help strengthen the heart, support normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and can calm inflammation. 

The oil assists with good sleep, supports the brain, and may prevent strokes.  Stiff joints and arthritis can also be relieved with olive oil, especially when combined with fish oil (per Healthline.com).

Regarding olive oil for sleep, a recent study appeared in a journal that writes about the health of older people.  This study included 1,639 people and found that eating a Mediterranean type diet improves the quality of sleep in older adults.  The Mediterranean diet includes foods such as fruit, vegetables, olive oil, fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains. 

Olive oil is a key component of this way of eating – a tradition that has developed in the European countries that surround the Mediterranean Sea.

Those in the study that didn’t adhere to the Mediterranean diet as well, had poorer sleep quality. The adults in the study that followed the diet more closely reaped the following benefits: More sound sleep through the night, falling asleep more quickly, feeling well rested when they woke up and during the day, and they were happy about the amount of sleep they got overall.

Olive oil has also been proven to help bone strength.  According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation: “Osteoporosis and low bone mass are currently estimated to be a major public health threat for almost 44 million women and men aged 50 and older in the USA.”

A recent study from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health has discovered that olives, olive oil and their potent plant nutrients called “polyphenols”, have a high potential for strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis. Human research shows that daily consumption of olive oil can prevent a decline in bone mineral density. 

Some good ways to eat olive oil is to use it in salad dressings and on vegetables, rub it on meat and fish before cooking to keep it moist, use it instead of butter in sauces and gravies, spread it on fresh bread, and saute or cook food with it.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D. 

The company also makes Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

Olive oil for sleep?

Regarding olive oil for sleep, a recent study of 1,639 people found that eating a Mediterranean type diet high in olive oil improves the quality of sleep. This diet includes foods such as fruit, vegetables, olive oil, fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains. The people in the study who ate this way were able to fall asleep faster, sleep longer and wake up refreshed.

Is olive oil good for osteoporosis?

A recent study from the International Journal of Environmental Research has discovered that olives, olive oil and their potent plant nutrients have a high potential for strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis. Human research reveals that daily consumption of olive oil can prevent a decline in bone mineral density. 

What are health benefits of olive oil?

Olive oil can help strengthen the heart, support normal blood pressure and blood sugar levels and can calm inflammation.  It assists with good sleep, supports the brain and may prevent strokes.  Stiff joints and arthritis can also be relieved with olive oil, especially when combined with fish oil

Guide to Healthier, Green Cleaning Options for the Home

Posted on by

green cleaningGreetings,

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has put together a handy, very helpful guide on “Healthier, Green Cleaning Options.”  The link to the guide can be found below.

This is especially valuable coming from the EWG, as they do regular research and studies on chemicals and contaminants in our cleaning products, foods, and the environment.

Here is the EWG mission statement that can be found on their website:

“The Environmental Working Group’s mission is to empower people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. With breakthrough research and education, we drive consumer choice and civic action.” 

“We work for you.  Do you know what’s in your tap water? What about your shampoo? What’s lurking in the cleaners underneath your sink? What pesticides are on your food?”

So, enjoy this short EWG guide to healthy green cleaning options by clicking the link below.  Here’s to your good health and the health of your family!

Environmental Working Group Guide to Healthier, Greener, Home Cleaning Options

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D. They also provide Joints and More, for natural joint relief, hair growth, seasonal allergies and more energy.

How Vitamin D Rich Foods May Help Remedy Insomnia

Posted on by

Here’s a short vitamin D primer that also includes how it can affect insomnia.  Shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of Sleep Minerals II
***********************
Do you struggle with falling asleep or staying asleep at night? If so, you are not alone. Every night, millions of people lie in bed hoping for a restful night’s sleep that does not come.

It is estimated that one in three people will develop acute insomnia every year, and about 10% of these individuals will struggle with insomnia for several months at a time.

Insomnia can wreak havoc on one’s ability to live a normal, productive life. In fact, lack of sleep can lead to mood changes, memory loss, and impaired judgement. In addition, unresolved or unmanaged sleep disorders can increase the risk of chronic pain, depression, and a compromised immune system.

There are a variety of sleep medications on the market to help manage insomnia. However, the side effects often lead to a new set of health complications. As a result, many people have begun searching for a safer, natural alternative to promote a healthier sleep cycle. Of the options on the market, vitamin D is proving to be a serious contender.

Vitamin D at a glance

Vitamin D has been making media headlines for over two decades. Originally believed to be important solely for bone health, research continues to uncover a wide range of additional health benefits of maintaining optimal levels.

Unfortunately, despite the thousands of studies that have showcased the body’s need for vitamin D, deficiency remains highly prevalent. This is due to a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

  • Indoor lifestyle
  • Sunblock use
  • Avoidance of mid-day sun exposure
  • Lack of supplement use
  • Imbalanced diet
  • Obesity

Often, people who are vitamin D deficient experience symptoms like fatigue, joint and muscle pain, frequent infections and insomnia.

How vitamin D status may impact sleep quality

Vitamin D is not just a vitamin, it’s a hormone. That means, after undergoing a couple of activation processes in the body, it binds to cells throughout the body to regulate a wide range of bodily functions.

Hormones are fat-soluble substances derived from cholesterol. They are produced by glands such as the thyroid, adrenals and pancreas, and then released into the bloodstream to reach target cells. These include cortisol made by the adrenals, testosterone, estrogen and yes, vitamin D.

So, how may vitamin D impact sleep? Vitamin D receiving points are located throughout regions of the brain that regulate our mood and sleep patterns. This has led researchers to theorize that vitamin D helps regulate the circadian rhythm, which is our body’s internal clock that instructs us when to sleep, eat, and rest.

  • Several studies have supported this theory by reporting a relationship between healthy vitamin D levels and improved sleep quality. In addition, a recent study found that vitamin D deficiency is associated with an 11-fold increased odds of resistance to sleep medication. This means that the people who didn’t respond to sleeping drugs had a lower level of vitamin D in their body.

Best sources of vitamin D

Thankfully, there are a variety of ways one can ensure they are receiving enough vitamin D to promote healthy sleep cycles.  This includes safe sun exposure (avoiding getting burned), supplementation, and eating a balanced diet.

Now more than ever, foods are being fortified with vitamin D in an effort to better support the body’s needs. However, people frequently ask, which form is better, vitamin D2 or D3?

Vitamin D2 is obtained through the diet and is produced by plants; whereas D3 is naturally produced when the skin is exposed to the sun and it can be consumed via animal sources in the diet.

Vitamin D3 is more bioavailable than D2, meaning this form is more efficiently utilized by our bodies. For this reason, experts recommend people ensure they are receiving ample amounts of vitamin D3 per day.

Top sources of vitamin D rich foods

  1. Cod liver Oil is the most potent dietary source for vitamin D3. In just one tablespoon, you can receive 1,360 international units (IU) vitamin D3. In addition to vitamin D, cod liver oil is rich in vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids.
  2. Fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines and mackerel are the best dietary sources of vitamin D, with about 500 IU vitamin D3 content in just three ounces of cooked fish. Also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, these sources offer a heart-healthy option for those looking for a balanced dietary approach to maintaining healthy vitamin D levels.
  3. Plain greek yogurt is another healthy option to provide some of your daily vitamin D needs. Known for its probiotics, greek yogurt helps support a healthy intestinal tract. In addition, it is a great snack for people who struggle with hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) due to its high protein, low carbohydrate ratio. It also contains calcium, magnesium and about 80 IU vitamin D per 6 oz serving.
  4. Eggs offer another beneficial source of vitamin D3. They generally contain about 40 IU per yoke.
  5. Perhaps one of the most popular dietary sources of vitamin D is milk. It offers about 120 IU vitamin D3 per serving. Milk also provides a great source of calcium. For this reason, milk is an important dietary component to protecting bone health.

Final thoughts

If you struggle with insomnia and hope vitamin D may help improve your sleep quality, there are a couple important factors to keep in mind. First, consistency is key. Although time of day isn’t important when eating foods rich in vitamin D or taking an oral supplement, it is important that this is done on a regular basis.

Research suggests that taking a couple thousand international units (IU’s) of vitamin D per day between foods and supplements is ideal when addressing sleeplessness and insomnia.

One supplement that contains a good amount of vitamin D is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. It also contains highly absorbable forms of calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which are all blended together with healthy oils to form an absorbable soft gel. Together, these vitamins and minerals work to help facilitate quality sleep.  Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can cause one to wake up in the middle of the night and be unable to fall back asleep.

One Sleep Minerals II user in Massachusetts says: “I had become dependent on sleeping drugs and couldn’t sleep without them. Now I take the Sleep Minerals before bed and can sleep through the whole night without drugs. I’m also able to easily fall back to sleep if I do have to get up.  Another benefit is this helps alleviate my chronic fatigue and aches and pains.”

Vitamin D is one of the master players in the game we all hope to win: Vibrant health, well-being and good sleep. Use it well in foods and supplements, as well as together with those minerals that are best-known for being relaxing insomnia remedies.

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Alternatives to Psychiatric Drugs: Vitamins, Minerals, Fish Oil

Posted on by

Greetings to you,

Studies from the Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology have found that “Vitamins and mineral supplements can be the alternative to increasing psychiatric medicines for symptom relief of anxiety and depression.”

Bonnie Kaplan, Ph.D., professor in the faculty of medicine at the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, said: “The supplements also can provide the mental energy necessary to manage stress, enhance mood and reduce fatigue.”

Dr. Kaplan conducted a number of studies in Canada.  Out of nearly 100 adults with depression and low energy, those that took a higher amount of vitamins and minerals had considerably enhanced mental functioning.  The study participants kept a 3-day food journal and tracked their foods and supplements.

Kaplan is a founding member of the International Society for Nutritional Psychiatry Research which distributes information and research about nutritional approaches to mental health. She has established two charitable funds that support nutrient research — work that includes clinical trials at universities in Canada, the United States, and New Zealand. 

An additional study from Toronto Canada examined the role of fish oil for depression and concluded that: “There is enough  … laboratory and clinical evidence to suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may play a role in certain cases of depression. Fish oil supplements are well tolerated and have been shown to be without significant side effects over large scale, 3-year research.”

For anyone currently taking psychiatric medications, its important that they work closely with their doctor if they seek to adjust drug dosages while adding supportive natural mental health remedies.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and a supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calming ingredients such as calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D.

Best of health,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs

Reference: Bonnie Kaplan awarded 2019 Dr. Rogers Prize – Researcher has spent decades linking better nutrition to better mental health

Ahh Chooo: MSM Effective for Allergy Symptoms

Posted on by

MSM is a natural mineral made of sulfur that has been shown in studies to relieve arthritis, headaches, back pain, and also contribute to stronger hair and nails.

MSM is known as “Factor N”, for returning cells to normal.

A recent study from the Genesis Center for Integrative Medicine in Graham, Washington has found yet another benefit of MSM — it’s effectiveness for seasonal allergies and hay fever.

MSM sulfur is a white, odorless, water-soluble element found in nature and in foods such as milk, fruits, vegetables, seafood and meat. It is especially high in eggs, onions, garlic, asparagus and broccoli. When food is heated, washed, frozen or processed, it becomes depleted of its natural MSM stores — making supplementation beneficial.

Seasonal allergies affect more than 23 million Americans each year. Symptoms can include sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose, congestion, coughing, itchy throat and fatigue. Side effects of antihistamines include drowsiness, and decongestants may result in insomnia or irritability.

The goal of the MSM study was to evaluate whether a natural mineral can reduce allergy symptoms and to determine if it has any possible side effects.

The study was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. Fifty-five patients with seasonal allergies were given MSM at 2,600 milligrams per day. The MSM use resulted in significantly reducing upper and total respiratory symptoms within 7 days.

Lower respiratory symptoms were substantially improved by the third week. Few side effects were associated with the use of MSM and no patients dropped out of the study from any adverse reactions. In addition, by day 14 the energy levels of participants had increased considerably.

The researchers concluded that MSM supplementation of 2,600 mg/day for 30 days is an effective and “side-effect free” remedy in the reduction of seasonal allergy symptoms. An unforeseen and valuable benefit of MSM was a significant increase in energy. For this reason, it’s best to take MSM early in the day rather than in the afternoon or evening too close to bedtime.

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs. Since 2001 Nutrition Breakthroughs has provided natural health articles and effective natural remedies.  Their mission is to provide nutritional supplements that get results and help people to avoid drugs and their side effects.

Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Joints and More, which contains pure organic MSM for allergy and asthma relief, arthritis and headache relief, increased energy, and stronger hair and nails. For more information, visit the Joints and More page.

Nutrition Breakthroughs also makes Sleep Minerals II, the original calcium and magnesium based sleep remedy.  It’s been shown effective for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for restless leg syndrome, bone strength, menopause insomnia and teenage insomnia.  For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Calcium and Vitamin D Remedies for Gum Disease

Posted on by

calcium and vitamin dA bright smile, white teeth and healthy gums are something everyone would like to enjoy.  Gingivitis is a very common form of inflammatory gum disease caused by bacteria in the mouth.

It causes gums to become red, swollen and bleed easily during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to an even more severe form of gum disease called periodontitis, which also may harm the bones underneath the gums.

Symptoms of periodontitis include bad breath, toothache, loose teeth, receding gums or tooth loss.  According to the study called “Prevalence of Periodontitis in Adults”, almost half of all American adults have mild, moderate or severe periodontal disease.  For those who are 65 or older, the percentage increases to 70%.

Researchers have previously discovered that people who consume low amounts of calcium and vitamin D can develop bone loss and osteoporosis.

Scientists at the Saint Louis University Center for Advanced Dental Education reasoned that because vitamin D also has antimicrobial effects and can remedy the inflammatory response, it would be reasonable to pursue a study to determine whether calcium and vitamin D may have a positive effect on periodontal disease.

The study included 51 people who were receiving periodontal maintenance therapy.  23 were taking vitamin D and calcium during the study and 28 did not.  All of the participants had at least two areas in their mouth that had loss of gum tissue and reduced support around the teeth.

At the end of the study, those taking the vitamin D and calcium had fewer bleeding sites, less attachment loss, and smaller open spaces between the teeth and gums.  The researchers concluded there was a good trend for improved health of the gums, teeth, and bones in the mouth with the use of these nutritional supplements.

Studies have also proven that calcium can prevent osteoporosis, reduce high blood pressure, relax the nerves and muscles, prevent colon cancer and kidney stones, and act as an effective remedy for insomnia and sleeplessness.

In one study called “The Nutritional Relationships of Magnesium”, the author notes that the type of insomnia associated with a calcium deficiency is one that causes difficulty with falling asleep. On the other hand, the classical sign of magnesium deficiency is insomnia characterized by falling asleep easily, but awakening frequently throughout the night, and with individuals finding themselves tired even after several hours of sleep.

It’s important to note that a balanced calcium magnesium ratio is important to overall health, and these two minerals should be taken together for best results (in a two to one ratio with twice as much calcium and magnesium).  The original research on this recommended ratio appeared in 1935 in the Journal of Physiological Reviews.

William Sears, M.D. writes: “Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. This explains why dairy products, which contain both tryptophan and calcium, are some of the top sleep-inducing foods.”

Jobee Knight, a nutritional researcher and founder of Nutrition Breakthroughs in Clearwater, Florida, is someone who fought her own battle against sleeplessness and insomnia. She decided to put her background to use by searching out effective natural insomnia remedies for relaxation and deeper sleep.

The result was Sleep Minerals II, a natural sleep remedy that contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, combined with vitamin D and zinc.

These are the most effective minerals for sleeplessness as well as for menopause insomnia, heart health, restless leg syndrome and bone strength.  The ingredients are formulated in a softgel with healthy oils, making them more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Tammy M. of Meridian, Idaho says: “I was plagued with insomnia for five years and desperate for a breakthrough. Nothing has helped me more than the Sleep Minerals.  I’m so sold on them I could go door to door promoting them.  I’m 60 years old and have never slept so soundly.”

Calcium and vitamin D are two of the key cornerstones of good health. They play many roles in the body and both should be included in the diet.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and a supplier of effective natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes the original calcium and magnesium based natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, as well as Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.