Tuesday, July 27, 2021
Wednesday, July 21, 2021
What is Spirulina? What are the Benefits of This Superfood?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that’s been cultivated for thousands of years. In fact, the ancient Aztecs ate dry cakes known as “tecuitlatl” made from spirulina.
Spirulina is known as cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria were once thought to be the oldest form of life on Earth, and they are still the most primitive form of photosynthetic life. They are found in a wide range of environments, from the oceans to soil and even in the digestive tracts of animals.
Because spirulina can be grown virtually anywhere, it’s not surprising that it’s packed with nutrients. A tablespoon of this alga contains:
- 4 grams of protein
- 20 calories
- 7 grams of carbohydrates
- 15% of the RDA of vitamin B2
- 11% of the RDA of vitamin B1
- 4% of the RDA of vitamin B3
- 11% of the RDA of iron
- 21% of the RDA of copper
What are the Benefits of Spirulina?
Spirulina is a truly powerful superfood. It’s one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet and one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants. It’s been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, including the following:
Promotes Immune System Health
Spirulina contains a wide range of nutrients that support immune function. It’s a rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, all of which support the immune system.
Spirulina contains a large amount of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion. It also contains a variety of polysaccharides that promote healthy bacteria in the gut.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Spirulina is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It contains a large amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
It also contains the antioxidant phycocyanin, which gives spirulina its blue-green color. This antioxidant can help fight free radicals and also prevent the production of molecules that signal inflammation.
Promotes Heart Health
Spirulina contains a high amount of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, which helps to reduce cholesterol and promote heart health. It’s also a rich source of magnesium, which supports cardiovascular health.
One study found that taking 1 gram of spirulina per day reduced “bad” cholesterol (LDL) by 10.1% and triglycerides by 16.3% in people with high cholesterol.
Provides Energy
Spirulina contains a high amount of B-vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. It also contains a high amount of iron, which helps to keep the body energized.
Boosts Brain Function
Spirulina is a great source of choline, a nutrient that’s vital for brain function. It also contains a high amount of DHA, which helps to protect against brain aging.
Can Help with Weight Loss
Spirulina contains a high amount of protein, but it’s low in calories. It’s also a good source of fiber, which helps to promote feelings of fullness and prevent overeating.
In one study, people taking 6 grams of spirulina daily lost weight and experienced beneficial metabolic effects.
A number of studies have shown that spirulina can help to reduce the risk of cancer. It contains several phytochemicals, including chlorophyll and beta-carotene, and it’s also a good source of selenium, which is known to help reduce the risk of cancer.
Spirulina contains large amounts of beta-carotene and vitamin E, both of which are vital for healthy skin. It also contains a large amount of vitamin C, which is known to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Spirulina is a good source of both calcium and magnesium, which are known to help maintain bone health.
Spirulina contains high amounts of biotin, which is known to promote healthy hair and nails. It also contains large amounts of silica, which is vital for healthy hair and nails.
Helps Protect the Kidneys
Spirulina is a good source of both potassium and magnesium, both of which are vital for healthy kidney function. It also contains high amounts of vitamin K, which helps to prevent calcium buildup in the kidneys.
Spirulina contains a high amount of chromium, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. It also contains a high amount of fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
One study also found that taking 8 grams of spirulina per day reduced oxidative damage markers in people with type 2 diabetes while increasing antioxidant enzymes in the blood.
Spirulina contains a high amount of zeaxanthin, which is vital for eye health. It also contains a high amount of beta-carotene, which is known to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
May Help Prevent Age-Related Cognitive Decline
As we age, the levels of certain nutrients drop in the brain. Spirulina contains a high amount of choline, which helps to prevent this decline. It also contains acetylcholine, which is known to improve cognitive function.
Allergies affect more than 50 million people in the U.S .alone. Dust, pollen and pet dander are the most common triggers of allergy symptoms, and they can cause your nose to swell.
Spirulina may help alleviate allergy symptoms.
One study found that spirulina reduced histamine levels and inflammation in the nose. Those taking the supplement found that it helped with sneezing, runny nose, congestion and itching.
Spirulina Side Effects
Spirulina is well-tolerated by most people, but some people may experience:
- Allergic reactions
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Muscle pain
- Insomnia
If you’re allergic to seaweed, sea vegetables or other types of seafood, you should avoid taking spirulina.
Spirulina can be found in powder and capsule form. Some people prefer capsules because they don’t like the taste of the powder, and it’s a convenient way to get your daily dose of this superfood.
Powders can be blended into smoothies or added to recipes for an extra nutrient kick.
Spirulina is a true superfood that’s loaded with nutrients and easy to take. If you’re thinking of adding spirulina to your diet, talk to your doctor first and look for a high-quality supplement to maximize its benefits.
Monday, July 19, 2021
Saturday, July 17, 2021
Tuesday, July 13, 2021
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriasis is a disease in which scaly red and white patches develop on the skin. Psoriasis is caused by the body’s immune system going into overdrive to attack the skin. Some people with psoriasis can also develop psoriatic arthritis, manifested by painful, stiff and swollen joints. Like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis symptoms flare and subside, vary from person to person, and even change locations in the same person over time.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body, and it may affect just one joint, several joints or multiple joints. For example, it may affect one or both knees. Affected fingers and toes can resemble swollen sausages, a condition often referred to as dactylitis. Finger and toe nails also may be affected.
Psoriatic arthritis in the spine, called spondylitis, causes stiffness in the back or neck, and difficulty bending. Psoriatic arthritis also can cause tender spots where tendons and ligaments join onto bones. This condition, called enthesitis, can result in pain at the back of the heel, the sole of the foot, around the elbows or in other areas. Enthesitis is one of the characteristic features of psoriatic arthritis.
Recent research suggests that persistent inflammation from psoriatic arthritis causes joint damage later, so early accurate diagnosis is essential. Fortunately, treatments are available and effective for most people.
TREAT ALL ARTHRITIS IN 3 EASY STEPS
(WATCH THIS VIDEO)
What causes psoriatic arthritis?
What causes psoriatic arthritis is not known exactly. Of those with psoriatic arthritis, 40% have a family member with psoriasis or arthritis, suggesting heredity may play a role. Psoriatic arthritis can also result from an infection that activates the immune system. While psoriasis itself is not infectious, it might be triggered by a streptococcal throat infection, commonly known as strep throat.
How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?
To diagnose psoriatic arthritis, rheumatologists look for swollen and painful joints, certain patterns of arthritis, and skin and nail changes typical of psoriasis. X-rays often are taken to look for joint damage. MRI, ultrasound or CT scans can be used to look at the joints in more detail.
Blood tests may be done to rule out other types of arthritis that have similar signs and symptoms, including gout, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. In patients with psoriatic arthritis, blood tests may reveal high levels of inflammation and mild anemia but labs may also be normal. Anemia is a condition that occurs when the body lacks red blood cells or has dysfunctional red blood cells. Occasionally skin biopsies (small samples of skin removed for analysis) are needed to confirm the psoriasis.
How is psoriatic arthritis treated?
Treating psoriatic arthritis varies depending on the level of pain, swelling and stiffness. Those with very mild arthritis may require treatment only when their joints are painful and may stop therapy when they feel better. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) are used as initial treatment.
If the arthritis does not respond, disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs may be prescribed. These include sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), methotrexate (Rheumatrex, Trexall, Otrexup, Rasuvo), cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune, Gengraf), and leflunomide. Sometimes combinations of these drugs may be used together. The anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) can help, but it usually is avoided as it can cause a flare of psoriasis. Azathioprine (Imuran) may help those with severe forms of psoriatic arthritis.
There are several biologic type medications available to treat psoriatic arthritis via infusion or injection.
The TNF Inhibitorssuch as adalimumab (Humira), etanercept (Enbrel), golimumab (Simponi), certolizumab (Cimzia) and infliximab (Remicade) are also available and can help the arthritis as well as the skin psoriasis.
Secukinumab (Cosentyx), a new type of biologic injection, was recently approved to treat psoriatic arthritis and also can be helpful in treating psoriasis.
Ustekinumab (Stelara) is a biologic injection given in your doctor’s office that is effective in treating psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis.
Abatacept is given to patients who have not responded to one or more DMARDs or other biologic drugs. Abatacept may be used alone or in combination with DMARDs.
For swollen joints, corticosteroid injections can be useful. Surgery can be helpful to repair or replace badly damaged joints.
Living with psoriatic arthritis
Many people with arthritis develop stiff joints and muscle weakness due to lack of use. Proper exercise is very important to improve overall health and keep joints flexible. This can be quite simple. Walking is an excellent way to get exercise. A walking aid or shoe inserts will help to avoid undue stress on feet, ankles, or knees affected by arthritis. An exercise bike provides another good option, as well as yoga and stretching exercises to help with relaxation.
Some people with arthritis find it easier to move in water. If this is the case, swimming or walking laps in the pool offers activity without stressing joints. Many people with psoriatic arthritis also benefit from physical and occupational therapy to strengthen muscles, protect joints from further damage, and increase flexibility.
TREAT ALL ARTHRITIS IN 3 EASY STEPS
(WATCH THIS VIDEO)
Reduce your risk
Fortunately, you can take steps to reduce your risk of conditions related to psoriatic arthritis:
Be honest with your doctor.Open communication allows your doctor to better monitor your health and schedule health screenings so that any other conditions can be diagnosed and treated early. Don’t hesitate to tell your doctor about any new symptoms, even if you think they might not be related to your psoriatic arthritis.
Stick to your treatment plan.Properly managing your psoriatic arthritis may help you fight off other chronic diseases. For example, research shows that aggressive treatment of psoriatic arthritis may lower your risk of heart disease.
And some medicines that may be prescribed for psoriatic arthritis — called tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blockers — have been linked to lower rates of depression.
Get moving.Exercise reduces inflammation and boosts heart health, greatly lowering your risk of diabetes and other chronic health conditions. Walking, swimming and yoga are some good ways to keep your joints strong and flexible.
Live a healthy lifestyle.Eat a balanced diet and limit alcohol. Alcohol can make psoriasis medications less effective.
If you smoke, quit. Research shows that kicking the habit leads to fewer psoriasis flares and a lower risk of other chronic diseases, including heart disease. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor for ways to get started.
In Conclusion
Medical treatment for your psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is essential for managing symptoms and protecting your joints. But alongside therapies and regular checkups, here are some daily practices you can adopt to promote joint health and keep flare-ups at bay.
Move your body. Exercise helps keep your joints loose and limber
Eat well. While there’s no magic cure-all diet for PsA, a heart-healthy diet is your best bet for overall wellness and long-term health.
Pay attention to stress levels. When you feel stressed, your body releases chemicals that make muscles tense and make inflammation worse. That can cause damage and pain in joints.
Care for your mental health. Make your mental well-being a priority. This might mean simply learning more about your condition so you feel better-prepared to deal with it.
Monday, July 12, 2021
Friday, July 9, 2021
Thursday, July 8, 2021
What is Spirulina? What are the Benefits of This Superfood?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that's been cultivated for thousands of years. In fact, the ancient Aztecs ate dry cakes known as “tecuitlatl” made from spirulina. Spirulina is known as cyanobacteria. Cyanobacteria were once thought to be the oldest form of life on Earth, and they are still the most primitive form of photosynthetic life. They are found in a wide range of environments, from the oceans to soil and even in the digestive tracts of animals.
Because spirulina can be grown virtually anywhere, it’s not surprising that it’s packed with nutrients. A tablespoon of this alga contains:
· 4 grams of protein
· 20 calories
· 1.7 grams of carbohydrates
· 15% of the RDA of vitamin B2
· 11% of the RDA of vitamin B1
· 4% of the RDA of vitamin B3
· 11% of the RDA of iron
· 21% of the RDA of copper
The protein in spirulina is comparable to eggs and contains all of the amino acids you need.
Watch This Short Video To Learn How To Lose Weight Fast,
Without Giving Up Any Of Your Favorite Foods
What are the Benefits of Spirulina?
Spirulina is a truly powerful superfood. It's one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet and one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants. It's been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, including the following:
Promotes Immune System Health
Spirulina contains a wide range of nutrients that support immune function. It's a rich source of beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and selenium, all of which support the immune system.
Can Help with Digestion
Spirulina contains a large amount of dietary fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion. It also contains a variety of polysaccharides that promote healthy bacteria in the gut.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Spirulina is a rich source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. It contains a large amount of omega-3 fatty acids, which help to reduce inflammation throughout the body.
It also contains the antioxidant phycocyanin, which gives spirulina its blue-green color. This antioxidant can help fight free radicals and also prevent the production of molecules that signal inflammation.
Promotes Heart Health
Spirulina contains a high amount of both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, which helps to reduce cholesterol and promote heart health. It's also a rich source of magnesium, which supports cardiovascular health.
One study found that taking 1 gram of spirulina per day reduced “bad” cholesterol (LDL) by 10.1% and triglycerides by 16.3% in people with high cholesterol.
Provides Energy
Spirulina contains a high amount of B-vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. It also contains a high amount of iron, which helps to keep the body energized.
Boosts Brain Function
Spirulina is a great source of choline, a nutrient that's vital for brain function. It also contains a high amount of DHA, which helps to protect against brain aging.
Can Help with Weight Loss
Spirulina contains a high amount of protein, but it's low in calories. It's also a good source of fiber, which helps to promote feelings of fullness and prevent overeating.
In one study, people taking 6 grams of spirulina daily lost weight and experienced beneficial metabolic effects.
May Reduce the Risk of Cancer
A number of studies have shown that spirulina can help to reduce the risk of cancer. It contains several phytochemicals, including chlorophyll and beta-carotene, and it's also a good source of selenium, which is known to help reduce the risk of cancer.
Promotes Skin Health
Spirulina contains large amounts of beta-carotene and vitamin E, both of which are vital for healthy skin. It also contains a large amount of vitamin C, which is known to protect the skin from free radical damage.
Helps to Maintain Bone Health
Spirulina is a good source of both calcium and magnesium, which are known to help maintain bone health.
Promotes Healthy Hair and Nails
Spirulina contains high amounts of biotin, which is known to promote healthy hair and nails. It also contains large amounts of silica, which is vital for healthy hair and nails.
Helps Protect the Kidneys
Spirulina is a good source of both potassium and magnesium, both of which are vital for healthy kidney function. It also contains high amounts of vitamin K, which helps to prevent calcium buildup in the kidneys.
May Reduce the Risk of and Help with Diabetes
Spirulina contains a high amount of chromium, which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. It also contains a high amount of fiber, which helps to slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream.
One study also found that taking 8 grams of spirulina per day reduced oxidative damage markers in people with type 2 diabetes while increasing antioxidant enzymes in the blood.
May Prevent Macular Degeneration
Spirulina contains a high amount of zeaxanthin, which is vital for eye health. It also contains a high amount of beta-carotene, which is known to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
May Help Prevent Age-Related Cognitive Decline
As we age, the levels of certain nutrients drop in the brain. Spirulina contains a high amount of choline, which helps to prevent this decline. It also contains acetylcholine, which is known to improve cognitive function.
Can Help Reduce Allergy Symptoms
Allergies affect more than 50 million people in the U.S .alone. Dust, pollen and pet dander are the most common triggers of allergy symptoms, and they can cause your nose to swell.
Spirulina may help alleviate allergy symptoms.
One study found that spirulina reduced histamine levels and inflammation in the nose. Those taking the supplement found that it helped with sneezing, runny nose, congestion and itching.
Spirulina Side Effects
Spirulina is well-tolerated by most people, but some people may experience:
· Allergic reactions
· Headaches
· Sweating
· Muscle pain
· Insomnia
If you’re allergic to seaweed, sea vegetables or other types of seafood, you should avoid taking spirulina.
Watch This Short Video To Learn How To Lose Weight Fast,
Without Giving Up Any Of Your Favorite Foods
How to Take Spirulina
Spirulina can be found in powder and capsule form. Some people prefer capsules because they don’t like the taste of the powder, and it’s a convenient way to get your daily dose of this superfood.
Powders can be blended into smoothies or added to recipes for an extra nutrient kick.
Spirulina is a true superfood that’s loaded with nutrients and easy to take. If you’re thinking of adding spirulina to your diet, talk to your doctor first and look for a high-quality supplement to maximize its benefits.
3 Benefits of the Ketogenic Diet
Keto is everywhere; it is the new buzzword, the new favorite among those looking to shed pounds, and the new hate victim of the food-pyramid-spouting-eat-your-whole grains mainstream medical industry. The keto diet, while it is not the magic cure-all for every single disease on the planet, does a pretty good job at being the potential causer of healing many horrible conditions. So, let us cut through the science, separate fact from fiction, and look at the benefits of the keto diet.
What does “Keto” mean?
A “keto” or “ketogenic” diet is so named because it causes your body to produce small fuel molecules called “ketones.”
This is an alternative fuel source for your body that can be used when blood sugar (glucose) is in short supply.
When you eat very few carbs or very few calories, your liver produces ketones from fat. These ketones then serve as a fuel source throughout the body, especially for the brain.
The brain is a hungry organ that consumes lots of energy every day, and it cannot run on fat directly. It can only run-on glucose – or ketones.
On a ketogenic diet, your entire body switches its fuel supply to run mostly on fat, burning fat all day long. When insulin levels drop very low, fat burning can increase dramatically. It becomes easier to access your fat stores to burn them off.
This is great if you are trying to lose weight, but there can also be other benefits, such as less hunger and a steady supply of energy — without the sugar peaks and valleys that often occur when eating high-carb meals. This may help keep you alert and focused.
When the body produces ketones, it enters a metabolic state called ketosis. The fastest way to get there is by fasting – not eating anything – but nobody can consistently fast forever.
A keto diet, on the other hand, also results in ketosis and can be eaten indefinitely. It has many of the benefits of fasting – including weight loss – without having to fast long term.
Benefit #1: Weight Loss
Okay, so this one is not so astounding, but it is one of the most common reasons people embark on the keto diet. So why is weight loss usually so easy on the ketogenic diet instead of other regular diets? For all the following reasons:
• The keto diet is composed of approximately 75% fat, 20 % protein, and 5% or less carbohydrates. The high fat content and lack of sugar means diminished cravings, lack of blood sugar swings and binges, and increased satiation. Increased satiation=eating less. Many people also have food sensitivities to grains, even gluten-free ones, so eliminating them may lead to an increased ability to absorb minerals like magnesium and potassium, which in turn means your body is more nourished and you have fewer cravings
• Ketones. When your blood sugar is running low, your body turns to its glycogen stores for energy. Typically, glycogen stores house about 2000 calories of "backup" energy for when you run out of glucose. Like the intelligent machine it is, your body depletes the glycogen stores and then turns to your own body fat for fuel.
IMPORTANT: The ketogenic diet is not a free-for-all eat however much cheese or super low-carb fat bomb treats you want diet. If you are eating way more calories than you need, you will not lose weight. So, focus on keeping your diet around fatty cuts of grass-fed meat, butter, eggs, avocados, lots of green veggies and cruciferous, and be modest with the keto desserts, dairy, and sweets.
Benefit #2: Brain Function
A poorly functioning brain, as you may have already experienced, leads to lessened work productivity, which in turn means an unhappy boss, lack of job satisfaction, sugar cravings for energy, and depression. It is a horrible domino effect. The original ketogenic diet was formulated by Dr. Russell Wilder in the early 20th century to treat epilepsy. The success rate was phenomenal, and it is still used today to treat epilepsy and other brain disorders. Research also indicates that ketones are more efficient brain fuel than glucose. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5102124/)
Benefit #3: Potential Cancer Benefits
One study showed implementing the ketogenic diet led to a dramatically increased survival time and slower tumor growth.
(Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5450454/)
Conclusion:
If you are reading this article now, chances are you are in some sort of pain, whether physical and/or mental (being overweight, struggling with autoimmune disorders, thyroid disease, fatigue, brain fog) and want to change. Use this information, do not just skim through it, and store it in the back of your brain and say, "that's nice for some people", motivate yourself to change.Wednesday, July 7, 2021
Thursday, July 1, 2021
Inspirational Hump Day Wednesday
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