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.
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.
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.
Ahhh Chooooo! Over twenty percent of Americans suffer from chronic allergies or hay fever.
Many are seeking to reap the benefits from natural remedies for the sneezing, runny nose, teary eyes and scratchy throat.
Allergies are the result of the immune system’s overreaction to a normally harmless substance, such as pollen, animal hair or indoor dust mites.
Specifically, an allergy occurs when the immune system develops a sensitivity and attacks what it considers to be an invader. When the substance enters the body, the body produces many antibodies in the blood to attack it.The antibodies then bind to a certain kind of white blood cell and this binding causes the release of histamine, a chemical in the body which causes the uncomfortable, yet familiar allergy symptoms.
Remedies for allergies that have been proven useful include Nettle Leaf, Vitamin C, Quercetin, and air ionizers. Quercetin belongs to a class of water-soluble plant coloring agents called bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids are found in many fruits and they aid in the absorption and metabolism of ascorbic acid (Vitamin C).
Quercetin is often recommended as a treatment for allergies and asthma. Several test tube studies have found it beneficial in stopping the release of allergenic substances and histamine in the body (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology).
A study of the herb nettle leaf was published in the journal “Planta Medica”. In this study, 58% of the people experienced less symptoms of hay fever, including sneezing and itchy eyes, after taking doses of nettles for one week.
Nettle leaf is high in vitamin C and trace minerals and is a rich source of chlorophyll. Some people with allergies have experienced improvement in their symptoms after taking 1–2 grams of vitamin C per day (1,000 to 2,000 milligrams).
A buffered form of vitamin C such as calcium ascorbate may work better for allergy or asthma sufferers than regular vitamin C (per a study in American Journal of Digestive Diseases). One group of researchers proved that vitamin C reduces the tendency of the lung’s bronchial passages to go into spasm (Annals of Allergy).
Another study in China showed that people with more vitamin C in their diet had greater lung volume — meaning they could exhale more air than those eating less of the vitamin.
Negative ion therapy can be a wonderful relief to allergy sufferers and is one of the best remedies for allergies. The air we breathe contains molecules with electrical charges, both positive and negative. These minute electrified particles called ions, affect the environment in which we live and breathe.
Researchers have shown that most of us who live, work and travel in closed spaces suffer some degree of negative ion starvation or the effects of too many positive ions.Some allergy-provoking substances, such as dust and pollen, have a positive electrical charge.
Negative ions appear to counteract the allergenic actions of these positively charged ions on respiratory tissues and people have experienced considerable relief from respiratory allergies (from the Book: The Ion Effect). A plug-in negative ion generator can work wonders in enclosed spaces.
Allergy symptoms can be greatly reduced with the right combination of herbs, vitamins, healthy food, and healthy air.
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, and more energy.
K. C. of Homer, New York says: “I am writing to you a true believer of Sleep Minerals II. I never write product reviews…. good or bad. I had originally ordered your sleep minerals product and thought I would give it a try.”
“Well I had given it to the entire family. We ran out of it and I really thought it wasn’t working. I quickly realized within a couple nights that without them the entire household was not falling asleep as easily as they were before! So I immediately ordered more. I will not let that happen again.”
To learn more about Sleep Minerals II, click here.
‘Tis the season for holiday stress. From last minute shopping, to getting less sleep, to making ends meet financially, to consuming more sweets and drinks at holiday get-togethers.
Americans are faced with many more physical and emotional pressures during the holidays. Recent research studies and surveys in the areas of sleep, eating, and finances are shedding some light on actions one can take to lessen the stress load.
The market research firm Harris Interactive recently conducted a “Holiday Stress Index” study. The poll was based on a nationwide sample of 2,173 adults in the U.S. eighteen years and over. Ninety percent of the respondents said they experience some level of stress and/or anxiety about the holiday season. However this year, more than a third (38 percent) said they expect to feel more stress and anxiety in this holiday season due to the current economy.
One interesting aspect of this study is that people feel there is too much emphasis on gift giving and not enough on communication and connection with loved-ones. The study indicates that, given a choice, most people would prefer having good family relationships as opposed to gifts or material goods. Here are some ideas: If the wallet or purse isn’t full enough, write a poem for someone and frame it, bake something special, or give gift certificates for outings, walks, or simple things a friend or family member enjoys.
For those who love food yet want to watch their calories, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that people who rapidly bolt down their food are more likely to overeat than those who dine at a more leisurely rate. The scientists discovered that rapid eating stops the release of a hormone that tells the brain when the stomach is full.
On one day of the new study, volunteers wolfed down 2 1/2 scoops of ice cream in five minutes flat. On another, they made the treat last for 30 minutes. The Athens University scientists measured blood levels of two types of appetite-lowering hormones before and after, and discovered that when people savored their ice cream very slowly, the appetite-suppressant hormone levels were 25 percent to 30 percent higher. Enjoy those holiday parties – just take time with eating and chew, chew, chew.
Financial stress is causing Americans to lose sleep this holiday season. According to a recent study done by SleepBetter, almost half of the nation’s moms and dads (44%) say they are worried about being able to afford the holidays this year, with one in six Americans (17%) expecting to lose sleep due to holiday-induced stress.
Not only do the anxieties and excitement of the season have an impact on many people’s ability to fall asleep, but added obligations and busyness at this time of year mean trying to fit more into our days and nights. To sleep well, SleepBetter recommends keeping one’s regular sleep schedule as best as possible during the holidays, and going to bed and getting up the same time as usual. In addition, while alcohol may help with falling asleep, it will interfere with the quality of sleep during the night as it creates a lighter, less sound sleep.
Calcium is directly related to the cycles of sleep. One study found that calcium levels were higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase. Calcium is one of the few minerals that acts as a natural sedative, because it causes the release of the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan.
The science-based nutritionist Adelle Davis says: “A calcium deficiency often shows itself by insomnia, another form of an inability to relax. The harm done by sleeping tablets, to say nothing of the thousands of dollars spent on them, could largely be avoided if the calcium intake were adequate.”
Calcium should be taken with magnesium in a 2 to 1 ratio, meaning twice as much calcium as magnesium.
Good nutrition can help stabilize the effects of eating sugary or fattening holiday foods. Eat fresh vegetables and fruits daily, drink lots of water, do some walking daily, and take nutritional supplements. One supplement example is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. This natural sleep remedy contains highly absorbable, quick acting forms of calcium and magnesium
Sleep Minerals II helps to calm anxiety and insomnia. It also contains vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it better assimilated than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.
L.R.C. of Massachusetts says: “Due to some stressful issues in my life, I was prescribed sleeping drugs to take. I had become dependent on the medication and couldn’t sleep without it. 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.”
Here’s to a healthful holiday season for all. And to one with holiday stress conquered, good sleep enjoyed, money saved, and happy conversations with family and friends!
For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit this info page.
In the ever-evolving landscape of nutrition and wellness, one dietary component that continues to stand the test of time is fiber.
Often applauded as a key player in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, high fiber foods offer a variety of benefits that contribute to our overall health and well-being. This article describes what fiber is, what its proven health benefits are, and the top foods that contain it.
What is Fiber?
Fiber, the indigestible part of plant foods, is a versatile compound that comes in two forms: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance that aids in regulating blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol. Insoluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, promoting healthy digestion and preventing constipation. Together, these forms contribute to the overall health of our digestive system.
Health Benefits of High Fiber Foods:
Digestive Harmony: Insoluble fiber, found in vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts, promotes regular bowel movements, preventing constipation and maintaining a healthy digestive system. Studies in the “Journal of Nutrition” emphasize its role in preventing gastrointestinal disorders.
Heart-Friendly Nutrients: Soluble fiber-rich foods, such as berries and oats, contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. Research published in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” suggests that a diet high in soluble fiber may significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, providing a positive impact on overall longevity.
Blood Sugar Stability: Fibrous fruits like apples and pears contain soluble fiber that aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels. A study in “Diabetes Care” highlights the positive impact of soluble fiber in reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and supporting overall blood sugar regulation.
Weight Management Support: High fiber foods, such as nuts and seeds, contribute to weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness. Research in the “International Journal of Obesity” supports the fact that incorporating nuts and seeds into the diet can assist in weight loss and maintenance.
Studies on How Fiber Extends Life:
Numerous studies have explored the correlation between high fiber intake and an extended life. A comprehensive analysis published in the “British Medical Journal” found that a diet rich in fiber is associated with a longer, healthier life. This is proof of the enduring impact of integrating fiber into our daily meals. A 25% reduction in death from all causes was observed for those consuming the most fiber.
7 of the Best High Fiber Foods with Studies on Their Benefits:
Broccoli: Rich in insoluble fiber, broccoli promotes intestinal health. Studies in the “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” suggest that compounds in broccoli may have anti-cancer properties, contributing to a longer and healthier life.
Berries (Blueberries, Raspberries): Packed with soluble fiber and antioxidants, berries support heart health. Research in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” indicates that the compounds in berries may have anti-aging effects.
Almonds: Almonds, a fiber-rich nut, contribute to weight management. The “Journal of Nutrition” suggests that the inclusion of nuts in the diet is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Avocado: Avocado, which is high in both soluble and insoluble fiber, supports heart health. A study in the “Journal of the American Heart Association” suggests that avocado consumption is linked to improved cardiovascular outcomes.
Spinach: Spinach is a fiber-packed leafy green. A study in the “European Journal of Nutrition” suggests that the fiber and antioxidants in spinach may contribute to improved gut health.
Oranges: Oranges, rich in soluble fiber, contribute to blood sugar stability. Studies in “Diabetes Care” emphasize the positive impact of citrus fruits on reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes, a fiber-rich vegetable, supports digestive health. The “Journal of Medicinal Food” highlights the potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects of the antioxidants in sweet potatoes.
Other High Fiber Foods:
In addition to the foods mentioned above, other high fiber foods include Brussels sprouts, kale, artichokes, lentils, bananas, peas, apples, chia seeds, sunflower seeds and carrots. These foods add diversity to a fiber-rich diet.
Lowest Fiber Foods:
Low fiber foods include highly processed snacks and foods like white bread, white biscuits, pancakes, cookies, chips, and sugary beverages.
Conclusion:
From supporting digestive health to fostering heart-friendly environments, high fiber foods contribute to a longer, healthier life. As we enjoy the vibrant flavors of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, lets envision the prospect of a long-lived future filled with health and vitality.
This health news is provided 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, and more energy.
There’s a couple of great charts below that show some of the most famous and effective remedies for sinuses, infections, and colds.
For example, garlic is a commonly used cold medicine. It is widely used in Russia and is known there as “Russian Penicillin”.
Garlic supports immune function and it can kill bacteria, parasites, fungus and the flu virus. One test-tube study showed that fresh garlic kills various viruses, including one which can cause flu like symptoms.
Horseradish is another plant that can ease throat and upper respiratory tract infections. It has been shown specifically to destroy the flu virus and reduce the severity of flu infections in animals. This plant is a member of the mustard family.
You may have found that eating horseradish can make your eyes water and nose run. Indeed, it can create a similar release of watery fluids inside the bronchial passages of the lungs which helps to flush them out and wash away congestion.
Vitamin C is one of the most famous boosts to immunity and one of the best remedies for sinuses and discomfort. In addition to enhancing the activity of immune cells, vitamin C acts as a vital component in the production of collagen, the principal protein found in all connective tissues.
By helping to maintain the strength and integrity of connective tissue structures, vitamin C keeps infections from spreading throughout the body (from the Handbook of Vitamins).
Enjoy the charts and here’s to your good health!These charts are shared courtesy of Oransi.com
This natural health news is presented 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.
Sleep Minerals II may also be one of the good remedies for sinuses and colds. Calcium can lower fever and zinc accelerates the growth of immune cells while preventing the replication of cold-causing viruses. In one study where people with colds were given zinc lozenges, sore throats disappeared after 1 day versus 3 days in the placebo group, nasal drainage in 4 days (versus 7 days), and headache in 2 days (versus 3 days).
For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit this page.
Studies are showing that certain minerals can have a positive effect on the quality of our sleep. One of these is potassium.
A study in the journal “Sleep” found that sleep improved and had more consolidation and less interruptions when potassium supplements were taken. (Reference: The Journal “Sleep”, August 1991).
One of the best, highest sources of potassium is the banana, which contains 400 milligrams of potassium. Eating a banana before bedtime may help reduce nighttime awakenings and provide better, deeper sleep.
More high potassium foods include potatoes, spinach, other leafy greens, pumpkin, avocado, sunflower seeds and almonds.
This health article is provided to you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural insomnia remedy Sleep Minerals II. Sleep Minerals II contains powerful forms of the best known minerals for relaxation and sleep — calcium and magnesium, combined with vitamin D and zinc. 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.
Wendy R. of Honolulu, Hawaii says: “My friends know that I’ve had insomnia for a very long time. Surprisingly, I received the Sleep Minerals II and took it and I actually slept. This thing really works. I wanted to say, its funny, but people know I have insomnia and once in a while a co-worker will ask me how I slept. In the past, if I ever got a good nights sleep I’d say “I slept like a baby”, but that’s the wrong analogy. Those little guys get up every two hours. I am actually beginning to sleep like an adult — a much-rested adult.”
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.
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.
