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Showing posts with label Health Insights. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Health Insights. Show all posts

Friday, 12 September 2025

Hypoglycemia’s impact on health and well-being

 Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, affects nearly 10 percent of the population and is often overlooked despite its profound impact on health. It can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild (e.g., anxiety, weakness) to severe (e.g., confusion, irrational behavior), and is frequently misdiagnosed as psychological disorders.

The condition is characterized by abnormally low blood sugar levels or extreme fluctuations, often triggered by excessive insulin secretion. Symptoms include dizziness, fainting, headaches, fatigue, insomnia, tremors and emotional instability. Stress, caffeine and sugar consumption can exacerbate these symptoms.

Hypoglycemia is linked to addictive behaviors such as sugar addiction, alcoholism and drug addiction. Individuals with these addictions may have an underlying hypoglycemia problem, which can create a vicious cycle of substance use to cope with low blood sugar.

Prolonged hypoglycemia can severely diminish quality of life, leading to convulsions and, in extreme cases, death. It is often dismissed as a "fad" disease, leaving many patients without the necessary support and treatment.

Dietary management is crucial for combating hypoglycemia. A diet high in protein, low in sugar and starch, and containing healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Frequent meals and snacks, along with the avoidance of sugar and caffeine, are recommended to prevent sharp spikes and drops in blood sugar.

In a world where dietary trends and health advice are constantly evolving, one condition remains relatively under the radar despite its profound impact on millions of Americans: hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar. This often-overlooked condition is gaining attention as experts link it to a range of health issues, from emotional instability to severe physical symptoms. According to Dr. E. Cheraskin, Dr. W.M. Ringsdorf, Jr. and Arline Brecher, nearly 10 percent of the population suffers from hypoglycemia, making it a silent epidemic that demands our attention....<<<Read More>>>...

Tuesday, 9 September 2025

The hidden clock: How meal timing sabotages blood sugar — and what science says you can do about it

 Circadian rhythms dictate glucose metabolism — eating late disrupts insulin sensitivity, raising diabetes risk.

Genetics influence meal timing preferences, but shifting calories earlier in the day can still improve metabolic health.

Consistent meal schedules stabilize blood sugar, while irregular eating worsens insulin resistance.

Evening habits (alcohol, sedentary behavior, poor sleep) spike overnight glucose — small changes yield significant benefits.

Personalized experiments (tracking meals, blood sugar and timing) help optimize individual metabolic responses.

For decades, nutritional advice has fixated on what we eat — cut refined carbs, boost fiber, balance macros. But a growing body of research now confirms that when we eat may be just as critical to blood sugar control, insulin sensitivity and long-term metabolic health....<<<Read More>>>...

Tuesday, 2 September 2025

Three essays: The centralised control of your body, soul and spirit

 The government you elected isn’t in charge and we are on the road to algorithmic authoritarianism. They don’t plan to stop there. The plan is to transform our spirituality, too.

The above are the subject matters of three important essays from three different independent journalists. The following are outlines of these essays, with hyperlinks to sections contained within the essays to help our readers find the particular topic that is of most interest to them or to read the essays in sections if reading them in one sitting feels overwhelming.....<<<Read More>>>...

Tuesday, 26 August 2025

Got a CAFFEINE WITHDRAWAL headache? It could be caused by dopamine downregulation and blocked dopamine receptors


Ever try to stop drinking your daily coffee for a few days and get that intolerable headache? Do you know why that happens? There are many factors at play there, including the downregulation of dopamine and some constricted blood vessels. Let’s take a look at the science so you can better understand what’s going on, and remedy it with superfoods and supplements, if you so choose.

For millions of people, starting the day without coffee is unthinkable. But skipping that daily caffeine fix can result in an all-too-familiar pounding headache. Neurologists describe caffeine withdrawal headaches as “migraine-like” in intensity — pulsing, throbbing, and sometimes debilitating. Despite how common they are, the exact reason these headaches hurt so much is still not fully understood. What experts do know points to a combination of vascular changes, brain chemistry, and receptor activity.

Caffeine withdrawal headaches typically strike within 24 hours of stopping regular intake (200+ mg/day for 2+ weeks) and can feel like intense, migraine-type pain due to blood vessel dilation and sudden changes in brain signaling.

The pain is partly explained by caffeine’s role in constricting blood vessels and blocking adenosine; when caffeine is removed, vessels swell and adenosine builds up, both of which trigger headaches.

Caffeine is paradoxical: While its absence causes withdrawal headaches, its presence can relieve them and even boost the effectiveness of common painkillers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

To reduce headaches, experts recommend tapering gradually (25–50 mg less per day) or substituting lower-caffeine drinks like tea, since quitting suddenly often leads to more severe symptoms....<<<Read More>>>...

Sunday, 10 August 2025

“Sinus Survival” sheds light on the crucial role of sinuses in our health

 Most people think of sinuses merely as part of the nose, but they are a distinct system of air-filled cavities located behind and around the nose and eyes. These include the frontal, maxillary, ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses, each playing a unique role. They act as filters, humidifiers and temperature regulators for the air we breathe, essentially serving as the first line of defense for our lungs against harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses and pollutants.

According to Dr. Ivker, the causes of sinus issues are multifaceted. The common cold is a frequent instigator, leading to inflammation and swelling of the nasal passages, which can block the sinuses and create a breeding ground for bacteria. However, colds are just the tip of the iceberg. Smoking, air pollution, dry air, allergies and even emotional stress can all contribute to sinus problems...<<<Read More>>>...

Saturday, 26 July 2025

Cayenne pepper: The fiery superfood with a healing kick

 The vibrant and fiery cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum) has long been celebrated for its culinary and medicinal properties. Cayenne pepper is more than just a spice – it's a powerhouse of phytonutrients and a natural remedy for a variety of ailments. From its ancient origins to its modern-day applications, cayenne pepper continues to captivate health enthusiasts and chefs alike.

Cayenne pepper traces its roots back to Central and South America, where it was cultivated for thousands of years. Indigenous peoples in these regions used it not only as a food source but also as a medicinal herb.

The pepper was introduced to Europe in the 15th century by Christopher Columbus, who brought it back from his voyages to the New World. Its name is derived from the city of Cayenne in French Guiana, though it is now grown worldwide, particularly in India, Mexico, Africa and the United States. (Related: Cayenne peppers are medicinal powerhouses that deserve a spot in your emergency medical kit.)

The spread of cayenne pepper across the globe was fueled by its versatility and potency. It quickly became a staple in traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it was used to treat digestive issues, improve circulation and alleviate pain...<<<Read More>>>...

Friday, 25 July 2025

Carrots: A versatile superfood for nutrition and disease prevention

 Carrots are root vegetables belonging to the parsley family, which also includes anise, fennel, parsley, celery and coriander, among others. While modern carrots are known for their bright orange color, their origins tell a more colorful story. Carrots are believed to have first been cultivated in the Middle East and Central Asia, particularly in regions now known as Afghanistan and Iran, where early varieties were purple, black or yellow in hue. Around 600 BCE, a yellow-rooted carrot emerged in Afghanistan and was refined into an early version of the modern-day carrot.

The early carrots spread throughout the Mediterranean, where they were adopted by the ancient Greeks and Romans primarily for medicinal purposes, such as treating digestive ailments and inflammation. However, carrots did not gain widespread popularity in Europe until the Renaissance, likely due to their tough and fibrous texture. In the 17th century, Dutch growers developed the orange carrot — some say as a tribute to the House of Orange — which had a more appealing taste and texture.

Carrots were later introduced to North America by European colonists, and by the early 1800s, they became the first vegetable to be commercially canned, marking their growing culinary importance. Today, carrots are a global staple, cultivated extensively in countries like the United States, France, England, Poland, China and Japan. Valued for their versatility, sweet flavor and nutritional benefits, carrots remain a beloved ingredient in cuisines worldwide...<<<Read More>>>...

Monday, 21 July 2025

In 9 out of 10 illnesses, our bodies can and will heal themselves

 Many of the people who are injured by doctors never needed medical treatment in the first place. The human body contains a comprehensive variety of self-healing mechanisms, which means that in nine out of ten illnesses, your body will mend itself.

It is important that you learn to understand your body; learn to appreciate your own self-healing skills; learn to acknowledge your body’s miraculous range of techniques for dealing with threats and diseases; and learn to know when your body can look after itself – and when you need professional help.

The big trouble with most health care professionals – and this includes acupuncturists, osteopaths, aromatherapists and all other “alternative” practitioners, as well as orthodox doctors – is that they tend to treat their patients as battle grounds, the illness as an enemy and their own armoury of drugs or techniques as weapons with which to fight the illness.

Whether he sticks needles into you, gives you herbal tea to drink or prescribes a drug for you to swallow, the therapist has to do something to you, or give you something to take, to justify his fee.

The evidence to show that this interventionist philosophy is wrong is incontrovertible. When you fall ill, you do not necessarily need to have anything done to you. Your body is equipped with such an enormous range of subtle and sophisticated feedback mechanisms that it can look after itself very well.

Your body can heal itself, protect itself and guard itself against a thousand different types of threat.

Your body contains internal mechanisms designed to deal automatically with minor damage, improve your eyesight, keep out the cold, deal with anxiety and even help fight against diseases as threatening as cancer.

Your internal appetite control centre can ensure that you eat only the foods that your body needs – and it can help make sure that you never become overweight.

Your body’s internal pain-relieving hormones are as powerful as morphine – but you have to know how to take advantage of those pain-relieving hormones.

The human brain even contains a natural drug designed to help with anxiety...<<<Read More>>>...

Sunday, 20 July 2025

Understanding the role of MORPHINE in medicine and history

 Morphine, a powerful narcotic analgesic, has played a pivotal role in medicine for centuries. Derived from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), it is one of the most effective pain-relieving substances known to humanity.

However, its benefits come with significant risks, including addiction and misuse. Morphine is an alkaloid compound that belongs to the opioid class of drugs. It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord and other areas, effectively blocking pain signals. The substance is primarily used to treat severe pain, such as that experienced by cancer patients or individuals recovering from major surgeries.(Related: Study finds acupuncture to be more effective in treating pain than morphine.)

Morphine is available in multiple forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release capsules and injectable solutions. Extended-release formulations are designed for chronic pain management and should not be used for short-term pain relief due to the high risk of dependency...<<<Read More>>>....

Thursday, 10 July 2025

Pears: A nutritious fruit for digestive health and disease prevention

 Pears are one of nature's most delicious and nutrient-packed fruits, offering a sweet, juicy flavor while delivering essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This versatile fruit has been cherished for centuries, not only for their delightful taste but also for their medicinal properties, which have been documented in traditional healing practices worldwide.

Today, as more people seek natural, unprocessed foods to support their well-being, pears stand out as a powerful ally in promoting digestive health, immune function and disease prevention.

Pears (Pyrus communis) are a fruit belonging to the rose family, closely related to apples and quinces. Cultivated for thousands of years, pears' origins can be traced back to ancient China and the Caucasus region. Historical records suggest that pears were a prized fruit in ancient Greece and Rome, where they were enjoyed fresh, cooked or preserved.

By the 17th century, European settlers introduced pears to North America, where they became a staple in orchards and home gardens. Today, pears are grown worldwide, with China, the United States and Argentina being among the top producers...<<<Read More>>>...

Thursday, 26 June 2025

Green vs. yellow bananas: How ripeness impacts gut health, blood sugar and cancer risk

 If you think a banana is just a banana, think again. The color of this popular fruit — whether green, yellow, or speckled with brown — determines its nutritional profile, digestibility, and even its potential to combat disease. While Big Food pushes sugary, processed snacks, nature’s perfect portable food offers a spectrum of benefits depending on ripeness. But which is truly the healthiest? The answer may surprise you.

Green bananas, often overlooked in favor of their sweeter, yellow counterparts, are packed with gut-healing resistant starch and fiber. Ripe bananas provide quick energy and antioxidants, while overripe ones are gentlest for sensitive stomachs. Even more startling? A groundbreaking study reveals green bananas may slash cancer risk by over 60% in high-risk individuals. Here’s the science-backed truth.

Unripe bananas are a staple in traditional diets worldwide, often cooked like vegetables. Their high resistant starch content acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria. "Due to the high fiber intake, an unripe banana is going to be most beneficial for digestion," says registered dietitian Courtney Pelitera. "It helps promote regular bowel movements and improve the gut microbiome."

But the benefits go further. A 2024 Japanese study found women eating two bananas daily saw improved gut health markers. Even more compelling? A UK study published in Cancer Prevention Research revealed that resistant starch equivalent to one green banana daily reduced upper gastrointestinal cancers by 60% in Lynch syndrome patients. "We found that resistant starch reduces a range of cancers by over 60%," said Professor John Mathers, a nutrition expert at Newcastle University. The effect lasted a decade after participants stopped the regimen.

Green bananas also stabilize blood sugar. A 2019 trial in the British Journal of Nutrition showed green banana pulp lowered HbA1c and blood pressure in diabetics. Their low glycemic index makes them ideal for metabolic health, unlike the sugar-laden snacks pushed by processed food giants...<<<Read More>>>...

Thursday, 19 June 2025

Ginseng’s dual power: Relieving stress and improving exercise recovery

 The Nutrients study analyzed 12 clinical trials involving 276 healthy participants, revealing that ginseng supplementation helped offset muscle damage caused by physical exertion. Ginseng contains ginsenosides — bioactive compounds that interact with the central nervous system, are known to boost brain function and that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

According to the study, exercise triggers biological stress and inflammation, which leads to muscle damage. But thanks to the beneficial activities of ginsenosides—which include improving mitochondrial function, promoting protein synthesis, facilitating the maturation of muscle precursor cells and preventing protein degradation—participants who supplemented with ginseng not only showed less fatigue during workouts and reduced muscle damage, but also enjoyed faster and more efficient muscle recovery.

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts may find ginseng particularly valuable for endurance training and high-intensity exercise. Unlike synthetic supplements, ginseng offers a natural way to support the body's resilience without harsh side effects...<<<Read More>>>...

Thursday, 12 June 2025

How parasites are secretly destroying your health

Imagine feeling exhausted, plagued by brain fog and suffering from mysterious digestive pain, only for doctors to dismiss your symptoms as "stress" or "normal aging." For Karen McNeal, this was her reality, until an integrative practitioner uncovered the shocking truth: Parasites had been silently thriving inside her body, fueling chronic illness.

"I had stomach issues, brain fog and was just concerned that I wasn't going to thrive if I didn't get some help," McNeal recalled. "We immediately did some testing for parasites. That was very helpful and I did have that. He had the solution. Within a year, they were all cleared up."

McNeal's story is far from unique. According to a PubMed study, nearly 60 percent of the global population harbors parasitic infections, yet mainstream medicine rarely tests for or treats them. These hidden invaders don't just reside in the gut; they infiltrate muscles, organs and even the brain, contributing to chronic fatigue, autoimmune disorders and even cancer.

Dr. Diana Wright, a naturopathic expert, revealed that parasites are one of four major vectors of cancer, alongside bacteria, viruses and fungi. "Sixty percent of people with cancer have a parasite," she stated. "Yet nobody thinks it's a virus because viruses are basically dead — they think this is going to be a living thing that causes cancer."

Despite their prevalence, conventional doctors rarely consider parasites as a root cause. Instead, patients are misdiagnosed, prescribed antidepressants or told their symptoms are "all in their head."

"Chronic parasitic infections can devastate your immune system, bringing diseases that modern doctors have no idea how to diagnose or treat," Otto explained. "They'll just diagnose it as some other disease and never even consider a parasitic infection."...<<<Read More>>>...

Sunday, 8 June 2025

Regular Exercise Boosts Memory and Brain Function at Any Age

 Americans are facing an alarming rise in cognitive decline, and it isn’t just impacting older adults — it’s happening across every age group. Memory problems, trouble concentrating, and impaired decision-making are becoming common complaints, seriously affecting quality of life.

If left unaddressed, cognitive decline will evolve into severe disorders like dementia. It disrupts your ability to live independently, connect with loved ones, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. The good news is there’s a powerful way to combat this cognitive threat — being physically active.

Recent research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine investigated how physical activity affects cognitive abilities such as memory, decision-making, and attention.1 Conducted by researchers from the University of South Australia, this umbrella review — the largest and most comprehensive review to date — analyzed 133 previous studies, encompassing data from over 258,000 participants ranging widely in age, from young children to older adults.2

Their goal was to clarify exactly how effective exercise is for boosting brain health and pinpointing the most beneficial forms of physical activity....<<<Read More>>>...

 

Thursday, 5 June 2025

Weak, Tired, Depressed? Are you suffering from low vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common condition that affects around 3-5% of the population, with some experts estimating it could be as high as 10%. And it is one that often overlooked by doctors.

Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products and with it becoming fashionable in some circles to follow a vegan diet, vitamin B12 deficiency is likely to become more common.

A deficiency in B12 can cause a wide range of symptoms, including tiredness, dementia, depression and neurological problems, which can be easily reversed with vitamin B12 injections or supplements....<<<Read More>>>...

Wednesday, 4 June 2025

Study shows natural compounds in nuts and seeds slash heart disease and diabetes risk by 10%

 In a groundbreaking study that reinforces the wisdom of natural medicine, Harvard researchers have uncovered compelling evidence that phytosterols—compounds found abundantly in nuts, seeds, and whole grains—can reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes by nearly 10%.

The findings, drawn from a 36-year study of more than 200,000 Americans, reveal a simple yet powerful truth: embracing plant-based foods isn’t just a lifestyle choice; it’s a lifesaving intervention. Yet despite these benefits, a staggering 90% of Americans fail to consume the recommended daily servings of these nutrient-dense foods, leaving them vulnerable to chronic diseases and Big Pharma’s costly, side-effect-laden "solutions." 

Phytosterols, which are structurally similar to cholesterol, are naturally occurring compounds in plant-based foods like almonds, sunflower seeds, whole grains, and vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower. For decades, researchers have known they help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol by blocking its absorption in the gut. But this latest study, presented at the American Society for Nutrition’s 2025 conference, goes further, linking phytosterols to improved insulin regulation, reduced inflammation, and a healthier gut microbiome, all of which are critical factors in preventing metabolic diseases....<<<Read More>>>...

 

Tuesday, 3 June 2025

Daily vitamin D may add years to your healthspan by preserving DNA, research reveals

 In a groundbreaking discovery that further validates the power of natural health solutions, a major four-year study has found that daily vitamin D supplementation significantly slows cellular aging by preserving telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that shorten as we age.

Published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, this research exposes yet another way Big Pharma’s synthetic drugs pale in comparison to simple, affordable nutrients that our bodies were designed to thrive on.

The study, conducted by researchers at Harvard-affiliated Mass General Brigham and the Medical College of Georgia, analyzed more than 1,000 healthy older adults and found that those taking 2,000 IU of vitamin D daily preserved roughly 140 base pairs of telomere DNA compared to placebo groups. This translates to nearly three years less of cellular aging in a staggering revelation that underscores vitamin D’s role in promoting longevity naturally...<<<Read More>>>....

Tuesday, 13 May 2025

Human body’s ultimate defense: How probiotics can lower cholesterol, prevent cancer and more

 In an era where health-conscious consumers are increasingly seeking natural solutions to combat modern ailments, the spotlight is turning to an unexpected source: the trillions of microorganisms residing within your body. "Probiotic Rescue: How You Can Use Probiotics to Fight Cholesterol, Cancer, Superbugs, Digestive Complaints and More" by Allison Tannis delves into the microscopic universe that holds the potential to revolutionize approach to health and wellness.

The human body is a bustling metropolis of microorganisms, home to an estimated 100 trillion microbes. These include bacteria, yeasts and other microscopic life forms that inhabit every nook and cranny, from the mouth to the gut. Surprisingly, about 95 percent of these microorganisms are beneficial, forming a complex community known as the intestinal microflora. This community plays a pivotal role in maintaining your health, acting as a first line of defense against harmful pathogens.

Probiotics, derived from the Greek words "pro" and "biotica," meaning "for life," are the good guys in this microbial battle. Defined by the World Health Organization and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations as "live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host," probiotics are essential for digestion, nutrient absorption and vitamin production. They also play a crucial role in keeping harmful microbes at bay, thus preventing illness...<<<Read More>>>...

Friday, 2 May 2025

“The Dopamine Revolution” by Sean David Cohen and Dr. Mahsin Habib offers simple strategies to boost dopamine levels naturally

 Dopamine, the body's natural "feel good" chemical, has been studied, documented and written about for years – but never quite like this, as delivered in this prolific book aptly titled "The Dopamine Revolution." Natural health advocate Sean David Cohen and Dr. Mahsin Habib, both with over 30 years' experience studying natural remedies and longevity, co-authored this practical and resourceful book about dopamine.

Whether you're battling stress, anxiety, depression, sleeplessness, lethargy, brain fog, libido inadequacy, long muscle recovery after workouts or you just want that extra boost of mood elevation and positive mindset, the ultimate solution is in your hands right now.

Sure, knowledge is power, but the reward comes from acting on it and using it to your full advantage day in and day out. This book serves as a reference guide, where you can simply flip through to chapters that pertain to your current needs at any given moment in time.

This book stands out due to its unique, profound and innovative approach. The cutting-edge solutions come in DIY form, making it simple to apply natural strategies and source the recommended foods, beverages and supplements.

Clear, straightforward language explains health concepts, avoiding unnecessary medical and scientific jargon. Regardless of background, readers can relate to the everyday examples that illustrate key points, making it easy to integrate these principles into a holistic lifestyle.

Now is the time to revolutionize physical, mental and emotional well-being like never before. Instead of dwelling on anguish, guilt, remorse or regret, this marks the beginning of a new chapter — one filled with vitality and renewed purpose...<<<Read More>>>...

Thursday, 27 March 2025

Birch essential oil: A timeless natural remedy for health and wellness

 Birch, scientifically known as Betula pendula, is a deciduous tree native to Northern Europe and parts of Asia. Commonly referred to as silver birch or European white birch, this tree is distinguished by its graceful, pendulous branches and silvery-white bark, which peels in papery layers.

Birch essential oil is extracted from the young leaves, twigs and buds of the bitch tree through a process called steam distillation. This method preserves the volatile compounds that give the oil its therapeutic properties. Birch essential oil is a potent and versatile natural remedy with a long history of use in traditional medicine and aromatherapy.

Historically, birch has been a revered plant in many cultures. In Russian and Finnish traditions, birch sap and leaves were used to treat skin conditions, respiratory issues and rheumatic pain. The Native Americans also utilized birch bark and sap for medicinal purposes, including making poultices for wounds and teas for internal ailments....<<<Read More>>>...