Recent studies have highlighted the significant benefits of zinc in promoting better sleep quality.
These findings come as welcome news to the 50 to 70 million adults in the United States suffering from sleep disorders, many of whom turn to medications for relief.
These figures come from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences demonstrates that zinc can help individuals fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling refreshed.
Zinc is a vital mineral for sleep regulation and it is also the most important mineral for immune function. The amount of zinc present in the body is a factor that can determine the quality and quantity of sleep. Zinc aids in the manufacture of chemical messengers in the brain such as melatonin and serotonin, which support a sound night’s sleep and help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
In another study, published in the Workplace Health and Safety Journal, researchers found that participants who supplemented with zinc experienced shorter sleep latency, meaning they fell asleep more quickly compared to those who did not take zinc. The study also indicated that zinc contributed to increased sleep duration and improved overall sleep quality.
These benefits make zinc a promising natural alternative to traditional sleeping pills, which can have numerous side effects and lead to addiction. With over 9 million Americans using prescription sleep aids (per the CDC), zinc offers a natural solution that can enhance sleep without the risk of dependency or adverse effects.
The popular natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs combines zinc with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D to create an effective natural remedy for sleep troubles. The blend of these essential minerals works synergistically to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
L.R.C. of Massachusetts says: “I had become dependent on sleeping drugs and couldn’t sleep without them. Now I take the Sleep Minerals before bed and I can sleep through the 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.”
For those seeking a natural way to improve sleep, Sleep Minerals II can be found online at the Nutrition Breakthroughs website and at Amazon. By addressing nutrient deficiencies and supporting the body’s natural sleep processes, Sleep Minerals II offers a safe and effective alternative to sleeping pills, harnessing the power of zinc and other vital minerals.
Welcome back to another edition of our “Friday 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 Friday.
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. Each Friday, we’ll 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.
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
Welcome to the first edition of our “Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition” series. Get ready to be intrigued and inspired by some fascinating and little-known tidbits about the food we eat.
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.
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.
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 “Friday 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.
In a fast-paced world where sleep can sometimes feel like an unattainable luxury, finding natural ways to drift off peacefully can be a life-saver.
Thankfully, there are some drinks for sleep that are packed with ingredients that promote a deeper, longer-lasting rest. Have a look at these top 10 drinks that can help you achieve a night of restful slumber, featuring natural vitamins, minerals and herbs.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is the superstar of bedtime drinks for sleep. It contains apigenin, a powerful plant substance that binds to areas in the brain to promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia Think of it as a gentle nudge towards your pillow (from a 2011 study).
Sour Cherry Juice for Sleep
Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep and wake cycles. Research has shown that drinking tart cherry juice can significantly improve sleep duration and quality of sleep (from a 2010 study).
Warm milk
Warm milk isn’t just a comforting childhood memory. It’s rich in calcium and tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts melatonin levels, promoting sleep.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is a fantastic source of magnesium and calcium, both of which are crucial for good sleep. Magnesium helps relax the muscles and nerves and calms the body and mind (from a study in the Journal of Natural Medicine).
Banana Smoothie
Bananas are loaded with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, which aid in the production of melatonin. Blend a fresh or frozen banana with one cup of milk or almond milk and a half cup of ice, and you’ve got a delicious, sleep-inducing smoothie (from the Role of Bananas in the Sleep-Wake Cycle; Journal of Food Science and Technology).
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Its calming effects can help ease you into a restful night’s sleep (from a 2006 study).
Golden Milk
Golden milk, made with turmeric, milk, and honey, is not only delicious but also packed with sleep-enhancing properties. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve mood, indirectly promoting better sleep (from a 2019 study).
To make golden milk, combine 1 cup milk (or almond, coconut, oat milk), a half teaspoon turmeric powder, and one teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Boil and then simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, cool and enjoy.
Oat Straw Tea
Oat straw is an herb rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. It’s known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it an excellent choice for a bedtime beverage (from Nutritional Neuroscience).
Passionflower Tea
Passionflower tea can increase levels of GABA, a brain chemical that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation (from a Phytotherapy Journal; meaning plant therapy).
Coconut Water
Coconut water is rich in magnesium and potassium. If there is a deficiency of these minerals, it can lead to insomnia, leg cramps, and more. Coconut water is high in minerals and is a hydrating and soothing option for winding down at the end of the day.
Sip, Relax and Sleep
Try whichever one first that is the most appealing to you and start with small amounts. Observe the effects it has on your sleep and see if it agrees with you. If it doesn’t help, try the next one. You will certainly find one or more natural drinks for sleep that will help you relax. If you are taking any medications, keep in touch with your doctor and let them know which drinks you are trying.
With these delicious and scientifically-backed drinks for sleep, you’ll be on your way to a peaceful, rejuvenating night’s rest. So raise a cup to sweet dreams, sleep well, and wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day!
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.
References
Pigeon, W. R., Carr, M., Gorman, C., & Perlis, M. (2010). Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 13(3), 579-583.
Zick, S. M., Wright, B. D., Sen, A., & Arnedt, J. T. (2011). Preliminary examination of the efficacy and safety of a standardized chamomile extract for chronic primary insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11(1), 78.
Barbagallo, M., & Dominguez, L. J. (2010). Magnesium and aging. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 16(7), 832-839.
Balderas, J., González-Dávalos, L., & Alonso, R. (2013). Role of bananas in the sleep-wake cycle. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 50(6), 1269-1276.
Kennedy, D. O., Little, W., & Scholey, A. B. (2006). Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosomatic Medicine, 68(5), 732-737.
Jahromi, S. R., Maleki, M., & Berrang, J. M. (2019). The effects of curcumin on sleep deprivation: a review. Neurochemical Research, 44(3), 499-507.
Mitchell, J., Smith, M., & Macleod, K. (2011). Oat straw extract improves cognitive performance in healthy adults. Nutritional Neuroscience, 14(5), 236-242.
Ngan, A., & Conduit, R. (2011). A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1153-1159.
Google Trends provides valuable insights into the public’s interests and shows how many people are searching for different health topics and conditions.
As of June 2024, data from Google Trends reveals that magnesium has collected three times as many searches as melatonin, indicating a significant public interest in understanding its benefits, particularly for sleep.
Understanding Melatonin and Magnesium for Sleep
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle relaxation and nerve function, both vital for restful sleep. It supports heart health (also a muscle) and is a proven remedy hot flashes, depression and migraines. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, signaling the body when it’s time to sleep.
Magnesium: Dr. Carolyn Dean, a nutritionist and author, states, “Magnesium is vital for muscle and nerve function, promoting relaxation, and helping to ease the body into a state conducive to sleep.”
Melatonin: According to Dr. Michael Grandner, a sleep researcher, “Melatonin is effective for adjusting the body’s internal clock, making it particularly useful for managing jet lag or shift work disorder.”
Side Effects and Safety
Magnesium: Common side effects from taking too much include digestive issues such as diarrhea or stomach cramps. Dr. Dean advises, “It’s crucial to start with a lower dose to see how your body reacts and consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any supplement regimen.”
Melatonin: Possible side effects of melatonin include drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, and, in some cases, mood changes. Dr. Grandner notes, “Melatonin is best used as a short-term solution. Long-term use can disrupt your natural sleep cycle and potentially lead to dependency.” Taking it for too long can also interfere with the body’s ability to make its own melatonin.
Effectiveness and Safety
For those who need to address a magnesium deficiency, or those who experience muscle spasms, cramps, or fatigue, magnesium might be more effective as it remedies the deficiency and also induces overall relaxation for better sleep. For individuals who travel or need to reset their sleep schedule, short-term use of melatonin can help.
In terms of safety, both substances are relatively safe when used correctly. However, because melatonin is a hormone, it should be used more cautiously, especially over long periods. Magnesium’s side effects are mostly related to dosage, making it somewhat safer for regular use.
Conclusion
The significant difference between magnesium and melatonin in Google searches highlights a growing curiosity about magnesium for sleep and the benefits it can provide. Magnesium and melatonin serve different purposes and have separate safety profiles. Choosing the right one depends on your specific sleep needs.
If you are taking any medications, its best to consult with your doctor about the use of supplements.
Nutrition Breakthroughs
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.
Public interest in immune system health continues to increase, with online searches for infections, viruses, allergies, coughs, fever, and headaches coming up among the top health-related inquiries.
Recent discoveries in the field of immunity have shed new light on how individuals can boost their immune system to achieve greater resilience against illnesses.
Research news published in several journals highlight the importance of specific nutrients — Calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc — in enhancing immune function.
Calcium: Beyond Bone Health
Traditionally celebrated for its role in building strong bones and teeth, calcium is now recognized for its immune-boosting properties. A study published in Frontiers in Immunology revealed that calcium plays a critical role in activating immune cells. These cells are essential for identifying and eliminating pathogens. A pathogen is any organism that causes disease, like a bacteria or virus.
Magnesium: The Silent Immune Modulator
Magnesium, often dubbed the “forgotten mineral,” is vital for numerous physiological functions, including immune response regulation. Research in immunological journals has discovered that magnesium deficiency can impair the function of T cells, which are crucial for adaptive immunity. Adaptive immunity occurs when someone’s immune system has a response to a substance or to fungus or bacteria. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake can help maintain a balanced immune response, reducing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.
Vitamin D: The Immune System’s Best Friend
Vitamin D, widely known for its role in bone health and mood regulation, has emerged as a key player in immune health. According to a comprehensive review in the Journal “Nutrients” vitamin D enhances the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages – those white blood cells that are important parts of our immune defense.
Vitamin D cell receptors are found on most cells of the immune system. A receptor is a part of a cell that receives and responds to a substance, so immune cells need vitamin D to function. Vitamin D supports healthy bones, reduces diabetes risk, strengthens the immune system, remedies insomnia, soothes skin conditions, and reduces inflammation.
Zinc: The Gatekeeper of Immune Function
Zinc is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of the immune system. Zinc has been used since ancient times to help heal wounds and low levels of zinc can increase the risk of infections. It is a well-known remedy for reducing the duration of the common cold. People with low zinc levels have less infection-fighting immune cells and their thymus gland (in which these immune cells develop), is smaller. When given extra zinc, their thymus grows and starts pumping out greater immunity.
A Combined Approach to Immune Health
Combining these nutrients through a balanced diet or appropriate supplementation can synergistically enhance immune function. Foods rich in these nutrients include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, eggs, beans, salmon, sardines, dairy, whole grains and shell fish. In addition to dietary sources, targeted supplements can be beneficial, especially for individuals with specific deficiencies or increased nutritional needs.
Conclusion
New research continues to unravel the complexities of the immune system, but the foundational nutrients for keeping it strong remain in place. Incorporating key nutritional elements like calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc into our daily lives, in the form of foods or supplements, is good advice for staying strong, healthy, and resistant to infection.
This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of Sleep Minerals II. Sleep Minerals II is a unique softgel supplement featuring highly absorbable forms of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc. Not only the best minerals and vitamins for strengthening immune function, but also for helping with falling asleep and staying asleep through the night. Visit the Sleep Minerals II page for more info.
For many people, chiropractic care conjures up images of spinal adjustments for back pain relief.
While that’s certainly a core strength of chiropractic, recent advancements in the field are revealing its potential to address a wider range of health concerns.
Here are some exciting developments on how chiropractic can support our overall health and well-being.
Integration with Traditional Medicine
The walls between chiropractic and traditional medicine are thinning. A 2021 study from the Boston Medical Center Family Practice Journal found that over 70% of medical doctors in Canada reported collaborating with chiropractors for patient care. This collaborative approach allows for a wider treatment plan with more options, potentially reducing reliance on medications and improving long-term health outcomes.
Headaches and Migraines
Chronic headaches and migraines are a significant burden for many. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain found that chiropractic care was as effective as medication in reducing headache frequency. This offers a drug-free option for those seeking relief.
Improved Sleep Quality
A 2010 article in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine offers some news for those having trouble getting a good night’s rest. The article reports on studies that have found improvements in insomnia following hands-on chiropractic therapy. This is great news as better sleep can definitely have a ripple effect on a person’s overall health and well-being.
Enhanced Athletic Performance
Athletes that push their bodies can often experience aches and pains. A 2019 Research Gate review concluded that: “The use of chiropractic in sports can improve performance and reduce injury times in medical rehabilitation. Chiropractic in sports is therefore quite efficient.”
Chiropractors Working Alongside Nutritionists
Chiropractic care can be a valuable addition to a person’s overall health and wellness strategy. When combined with a balanced diet, it can lead to significant improvements in health. A chiropractor and nutritionist can work together to create a personalized plan that addresses a person’s unique needs.
For instance, a focus on anti-inflammatory foods can complement and enhance chiropractic care for pain management, immunity, heart health, and other benefits. Some of these foods include berries, nuts, broccoli, salmon, sardines, cooked vegetables, olive oil and leafy greens.
Real-World Examples
Imagine Sarah, a busy marketing professional who suffers from frequent headaches and neck pain. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with ergonomic workstation adjustments, could help improve her posture, reduce nerve irritation, and alleviate her headaches.
For John, an avid runner experiencing leg pain, chiropractic care could address joint misalignments, improve flexibility, and potentially enhance his running performance.
Summary
Chiropractic care is evolving beyond its traditional roots. Research suggests it can be a valuable tool for managing a variety of health concerns while promoting overall health and well-being. If you’re looking for a drug-free, natural, and effective approach to greater health, consider chiropractic care in combination with good nutrition.
This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep remedy Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.
Sleep Minerals II is the original and time-tested calcium and magnesium remedy for better sleep.
Nutrition Breakthroughs has enhanced the product to provide an upgraded formula for those struggling with sleeplessness or insomnia.
With increased amounts of zinc, a shift to sunflower lecithin from soy lecithin, and a reduced serving size, the new formula provides increased benefits for those who seek a more restful night’s sleep.
Sleep Minerals II contains calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and zinc, formulated in a softgel with healthy oils. The softgel is a unique form that is absorbed and digested more rapidly and fully than tablets or capsules.
Zinc is a vital mineral for sleep regulation and it is also the most important mineral for immune function. The amount of zinc present in the body is a factor that can determine the quality and quantity of sleep. Zinc aids in the manufacture of chemical messengers in the brain such as melatonin and serotonin, which support a sound night’s sleep and help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
According to the U.S. Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, about half of U.S. women consume less than two-thirds of the Recommended Dietary Daily Allowance of 11 mg. to 12 mg. of zinc. And the amount of zinc people absorb from their meals decreases with advancing age. The new version of Sleep Minerals II provides 12 mg. of zinc in each softgel.
The balance of calcium and zinc are important to overall health. In one study from the Human Nutrition Research Center, 18 women increased their calcium intake and this resulted in their absorption of zinc significantly reducing. This happened regardless of whether they got the extra calcium from milk or from a calcium supplement.
In a second study from the same source, zinc absorption dropped by half when a group of 10 men and women took a calcium supplement with a single test meal. However, adding zinc to the calcium supplement acted to offset this effect.
On its own, calcium 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 the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase.
This is the phase where dreaming occurs. The study concluded that disturbances in sleep, especially the absence of REM deep sleep or disturbed REM sleep, are related to a calcium deficiency.
Sleep in magnesium deficiency is usually agitated with frequent nighttime awakenings. Chronic sleeplessness is one of the main symptoms of magnesium deficiency. On the other hand, a high magnesium diet has been found to be associated with deeper, less interrupted sleep. This was proven in a study done by James Penland at the Human Nutrition Research Center in North Dakota.
Regarding vitamin D, researchers in Texas found a definite link between vitamin D deficiency and the current global epidemic of sleep disorders. Their clinical trial followed 1500 patients over a 2-year period.
A consistent level of vitamin D was maintained in the participant’s blood over many months. This produced normal sleep for most of them, regardless of their type of sleep disorder.
Nutrition Breakthroughs is pleased to include sunflower lecithin in the new formula, replacing the former soy lecithin. Sunflower lecithin is not only a more allergen-friendly option but it provides additional health benefits such as supporting brain function and healthier cholesterol levels. When used in nutritional supplements, lecithin is known for improving the stability and smooth mixture of the ingredients.
Sleep Minerals II contains all of the most proven and effective minerals and vitamins for good sleep. It continues to be a safe, drug-free and gentle option for those seeking a time-tested natural sleep remedy. It helps with falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, sleeping deeper, and waking up refreshed.
In the quest for greater health and the prevention of disease, people are looking more and more to the quality of the foods they eat and are seeking the healthiest foods. Fast food, fried food, sweets, and foods made with genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are being replaced with healthier options.
Research studies are showing that food is more than mere nutrition to fill the stomach – it can ward off specific illnesses and lengthen one’s life.
The first of the three healthiest foods is the delicious almond. A recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition has found that eating 1.5 ounces of lightly salted, dry-roasted almonds each day (about 35 almonds) reduces overall hunger, does not affect body weight, and helps people to meet their ideal daily intake of Vitamin E.
Another study that was published on consuming nuts appeared in the New England Journal of Medicine. It showed that people who eat nuts live longer than those who don’t. The study included 76,464 women and 42,498 men and found that the more times per week nuts were eaten, the greater the reduction in risk of death. As a note, those who ate more nuts had 29% less deaths from heart disease.
Wild-caught salmon is one of the healthiest foods on earth. Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel were shown in a Swedish study to prevent the development of arthritis. The women in the study who ate just one serving of oily fish per week cut their risk of getting arthritis by an amazing 52%.
Fish and fish oils have both been shown to be a good arthritis remedy. One study from the Oxford University found that children who took fish oil supplements experienced better sleep at night, with fewer awakenings and nearly an hour more of sleep each night.
Regarding the use of fish oil for the health of the heart and arteries, a study was done at the Columbia University Medical Center in New York. Researchers there found that a diet rich in fish oils can prevent the accumulation of fat in the aorta, the main artery leaving the heart. The beneficial actions of fish oil that block cholesterol buildup in the arteries were found even when high amounts of fat were eaten.
Broccoli contains a potent rainbow of vitamins, minerals and plant nutrients. It is a cruciferous vegetable, meaning that it’s in the cabbage family. One key ingredient of broccoli known as “sulforaphane” has been shown to have anti-cancer benefits. The International Journal of Cancer presented a study of men diagnosed with prostate cancer. Those that consumed cruciferous vegetables had a statistically significant 59% decreased risk of prostate cancer progression.
Broccoli also contains a nutrient called indoles that can balance hormones by blocking excess estrogen in the body. This is important for women at the time of menopause when the level of progesterone drops to almost zero, while there is still estrogen present. An imbalance of hormones can contribute to menopause symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, irritability, night sweats, leg cramps, and mental depression. Eating some raw broccoli a few times a week can help reduce the symptoms.
Broccoli should be eaten raw or lightly steamed in order to retain its higher levels of sulforaphane and provide the most health benefits. A study from the Netherlands showed that consumption of raw broccoli results in faster absorption and higher peak blood levels of sulforaphane compared to cooked broccoli.
This natural health news on the healthiest foods is written for you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a provider of natural health articles and effective natural remedies since 2001. 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.
Recent studies have highlighted the significant benefits of zinc in promoting better sleep quality.
