Category Archives: natural remedies

Is Eating Organic Food Really Worth It?

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organicMany people may have wondered whether organic foods are really worth the trouble to find, buy and eat.

When we speak about organic food, we refer to a set of agricultural practices followed in the entire process to produce the food including growing, harvesting, processing, and storage.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has set the USDA Organic Standards and organic producers must comply with them to label their food products as USDA organic. In essence, this means that the following are not used in organic foods.

  • No synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or herbicides (pesticides control pests, fertilizers supply plant nutrients, and herbicides control unwanted plants)
  • No use of antibiotics
  • No use of growth hormones or other stimulants
  • No genetically modified substances (ingredients in which genetic materials are altered)

The difference between organic and non-organic foods

Though visually there is very little or no difference between organic and non-organic foods, organic foods offer better safety profiles (a lower likelihood of adverse effects in the body), with superior nutritional values compared to non-organic ones.

The most prevalent differences between organic and non-organic foods are that foods produced through conventional methods have higher levels of pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics that may lead to some unfavorable effects on the human body.  These include hormonal imbalances, neurological problems and a weakened immune response. Whereas, organic foods either do not contain these materials or have very small amounts.

Why organic food is better for you

Organic food offers many benefits ranging from health perspectives to environmental concerns. Organic farming practices improve the soil health and its fertility on a long-term basis. Biodiversity is a word that means “a variety of life in a place including animals, plants, and various microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.” The methods used in organic farming help maintain ecological balance and biodiversity by encouraging wildlife.

Organic foods provide various health benefits since they have lower levels of toxic chemicals such as pesticides and higher levels of certain nutrients like vitamins and minerals. Multiple studies have concluded that organic food items provide significantly greater levels of phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and vitamin C compared to regular varieties of the same foods.

A 2010 review published in the Alternative Medicine Review concluded that foods and vegetables grown organically show greater antioxidant activity.  Antioxidants are compounds that can prevent cell-damaging chemical reactions caused by oxygen molecules.

Organic foods also help inhibit the activity of toxic compounds such as pesticide residues. Scientists have also found clear health benefits of organic dairy products in reducing allergic dermatitis in their review (1).

Animal protein and dairy products: conventional vs organic

In conventionally produced animal proteins and dairy products such as meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and milk, producers routinely use different types of antibiotics and growth hormones to speed up the entire process of production so that they can meet the large-scale market demands.

On the other hand, organic animal proteins and dairy products are produced through organic methods with no antibiotics or growth hormones and thus, these organic products provide better safety and health benefits than their conventional counterparts.

Organic animal foods are sourced from those animals that have access to outdoors and pasture feeding and grow in more healthy living conditions. Therefore, these organic foods contain higher levels of natural nutrients that are more beneficial for humans than non-organic foods.

Conventional meat vs grass-fed meat vs organic meat

Conventional meat – Steroid hormones such as estrogen are often given to animals to increase the production of meat. Though the hormone levels are somewhat low, extra steroids may increase the susceptibility of harm in certain people, especially in pregnant women and elderly people.

In addition, antibiotics may also be used in conventional farming to accelerate growth in livestock. Using antibiotics may enhance the risk of developing drug-resistant bacteria in livestock and may be transmitted to humans through meats. Drug-resistant bacteria are those bacteria that become resistant to drugs such as antibiotics, making it difficult to treat infections caused by them.

Grass-fed meat – Grass-fed meats come from animals that ate mostly grass particularly for at least four months during the grazing season. Grass-fed meats are technically organic meats and considered more nutritious with lower levels of fat and higher levels of antioxidants, especially omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids are a group of fat molecules that are considered good fats and offer many health benefits in the human body.

Organic meat – Organic meats are derived from animals that are grown according to the USDA organic livestock regulations. Organic meats come from animals that are not given growth hormones and antibiotics.

A review of 67 studies published in the British Journal of Nutrition showed organic meats have higher levels of omega 3 fatty acids than conventional meats and the levels of saturated fats are lower than the conventional ones (2).

Why organic foods may be more expensive and which ones to buy inexpensively

In general, organic foods may cost a bit more than their regular counterparts that are grown conventionally. This is mainly because of the labor-intensive agricultural practices organic food producers use to follow to produce their organic products.

Farmers must use physical, biological, and mechanical methods instead of pesticides to control pests, weeds, and diseases when growing organic crops. When it comes to dairy products and meats, animals that are raised organically are not given any growth hormones or steroids that can increase the production, resulting in less production and higher charges accordingly because farmers don’t have as much to sell.

There are many organic foods that can be purchased inexpensively. Some examples of inexpensive organic foods would include dry beans, tea, frozen fruit, frozen vegetables, potatoes, spices and soups. In addition, buying the store-brand or generic brand of organic products is often a great way to save money and get all the organic food benefits.

Understanding the dirty dozen and clean fifteen foods

Everyone wants to use their budget wisely when it comes to buying organic foods. Fruits and vegetables are always among the most popular organic lines because of their nutritional values.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a US-based nonprofit organization, releases an annual assessment list of twelve foods containing the most pesticides called “the dirty dozen foods”, and fifteen foods containing the least pesticides called “the clean fifteen foods”.

For the “dirty dozen” foods containing the most pesticides, it’s a good choice to buy the organic versions of these in order to avoid any harmful effects.

According to the EWG’s shopper’s guide to pesticides in produce, here is the full list of the dirty dozen foods for 2021

  1. Strawberries
  2. Spinach
  3. Kale, collard, and mustard greens
  4. Nectarines
  5. Apples
  6. Grapes
  7. Cherries
  8. Peaches
  9. Pears
  10. Bell and hot peppers
  11. Celery
  12. Tomatoes

And here is the full list of the clean fifteen foods for 2021

  1. Avocados
  2. Sweet corn
  3. Pineapple
  4. Onions
  5. Papaya
  6. Sweet peas (frozen)
  7. Eggplant
  8. Asparagus
  9. Broccoli
  10. Cabbage
  11. Kiwi
  12. Cauliflower
  13. Mushrooms
  14. Honeydew melon
  15. Cantaloupe

Summary of Organic Food Benefits

Whether we consider the nutritional values of organic foods or not, avoiding pesticide and antibiotic exposure is important since they may lead to various health issues. Organic foods are the only choice to lessen the exposure to these.

Therefore, with the growing concern over toxic chemical compounds in food products, in addition to the higher nutritional quality of organic foods, these foods are truly better for protecting and enhancing one’s health. Yes, organic food is better for you.

References:

  1. Crinnion, Walter J. “Organic Foods Contain Higher Levels of Certain Nutrients, Lower Levels of Pesticides, and May Provide Health Benefits for the Consumer.” Alternative Medicine Review: A Journal of Clinical Therapeutic, vol. 15, no. 1, 1 Apr. 2010, pp. 4–12, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20359265/.
  2. Średnicka-Tober, Dominika, et al. “Composition Differences between Organic and Conventional Meat: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-Analysis.” British Journal of Nutrition, vol. 115, no. 6, 16 Feb. 2016, pp. 994–1011, 1017/s0007114515005073.
  3. https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2012/03/22/organic-101-what-usda-organic-label-means‌
  4. https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/

Hair Growth Tips: Top 5 Vitamins for Healthy Hair

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hair growth tipsGreetings to you,

Many people these days are interested in the subject of natural ways to increase hair growth and prevent hair loss.

So we’ve created this new video on the topic of hair growth tips. You can see it below.

It reveals what hair is actually made of and then gives the top vitamins and hair growth tips for nourishing the hair and scalp.

Enjoy watching it and feel free to share it with others who could benefit from it.

Here’s to your lovely hair and good health!

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II

How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally 

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lower cholesterolWhat is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy or fatty substance that is vital for many bodily functions, especially to produce hormones, help make vitamins, and build and repair cells.

The liver makes the cholesterol needed by the body and it is also obtained from animal foods like meat, poultry and dairy.

The two major types include low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as LDL cholesterol or “Bad Cholesterol”, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as HDL cholesterol or “Good Cholesterol”.

For those who have high levels of the bad type of cholesterol, the hopeful news is that a large number of health conditions caused by high cholesterol can easily be prevented with simple lifestyle improvements consisting of diet, exercise, and natural remedies.

Why it’s important to keep cholesterol in check 

Too much bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood increases the risk of plaque build ups (fatty deposits) in the artery walls and may result in atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrow and hard. This may cause a number of heart and blood vessel-related (cardiovascular) conditions such as heart attack and stroke.

How to lower cholesterol by natural means 

Naturopathic medical science is a type of healthcare that integrates proven traditional methods with modern treatment. It encourages the body to heal itself from within using several alternative natural therapies. The best part is that it focuses not only on suppressing the symptoms, but it also addresses the underlying causes to eliminate a symptom at its root.

Natural medicine practitioners take into consideration each and every factor that might be linked to developing high cholesterol. They help bring cholesterol to healthy levels through lifestyle choices, healthy eating, and medicinal foods and herbs.

The following sections will address how one can balance cholesterol to healthy levels from a natural medicine point of view.

Lifestyle changes to reduce cholesterol  

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the most prevalent risk factors of heart disease and stroke are unhealthy lifestyle choices that may include physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, excess use of alcohol, and tobacco use. The effects of these lifestyle factors may show up as raised blood cholesterol, obesity, and overweight, among others (1).

Eating more vegetables and fruits, quitting smoking, reducing salt intake, avoiding consumption of alcohol, and adopting regular exercise have been found to be highly effective in reducing the risk of developing high cholesterol and obesity as well as cardiovascular diseases (1).

A review of related studies that was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 1991 showed that making healthy improvements with exercise and diet can significantly reduce levels of the “bad” cholesterol. These changes reduced the risk of developing heart and blood disease in most adults (2).

Diet to reduce cholesterol naturally  

Dietary changes are the first and foremost step we can take to bring cholesterol levels to a healthy range. Eating foods that contain high fiber and healthy types of fats are highly beneficial in reducing cholesterol in the blood.

Developing a healthy diet includes:

Avoiding trans fats 

Trans fats, also known as trans fatty acids (TFAs), are fats found in vegetable oils that have been industrially modified through a process called hydrogenation to make them more stable. Hydrogen has been infused into these fats.

Processed foods and foods that contain trans fats such as margarine and hydrogenated vegetable oils (like hydrogenated soybean oil and cottonseed oil), are unhealthy. Highly processed foods with these fats include chips, cookies, candy, ice cream, fast foods and processed meats.

Whole, single foods such as vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds, yams, potatoes, and healthy oils like olive and coconut oil, are great for one’s health and cholesterol. Especially leafy greens, salmon and sardines.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), eating foods that contain trans fats increases the risk of developing stroke and heart disease by raising LDL (bad) cholesterol and lowering HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the body (3).

For this reason, the World Health Organization (WHO) made an international call to eliminate artificial (industrially produced) trans fats from the food supply globally by 2023 (4).

Eating more soluble fibers 

Soluble fibers are roughage parts of plant derived foods that absorb water and create a semi-solid substance in the gut and also help remove harmful solid fat molecules from the digestive tract.

Soluble fibers nourish healthy microbiomes in the gut and help eliminate LDL cholesterol from the human body. Healthy microbiomes are beneficial bacteria that live in the digestive tract. Good sources of soluble fibers include lentils, beans, peas, fruits, and a number of whole grains, particularly oats.

A study published in 1999 has shown that various dietary soluble fibers can reduce bad LDL and total cholesterol by similar amounts (5).

Adding more omega 3 fats into the regular diet

Omega 3 fatty acids have been found to be beneficial for reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. Good sources include fatty fish such as mackerel, salmon, and sardines, olive oil, various nuts especially walnuts and almonds, avocados, and flaxseed oil.

The British Journal of Nutrition found that replacing unhealthy fats with omega 3 fats reduced total cholesterol levels within 8 weeks (6).

Natural remedies for high cholesterol  

There are plenty of herbs and foods that have been used as natural remedies for high cholesterol for decades. Most popular natural remedies for high cholesterol may include garlic, psyllium, flaxseed, ginger, and more.

Natural herbs and foods have a long history of therapeutic use, and multiple scientific studies have also substantiated their traditional uses in lowering cholesterol and improving heart health naturally.

Here are five of the best natural remedies for high cholesterol:

Garlic 

Garlic is considered one of the most beneficial herbal remedies and has been widely used as an effective therapeutic ingredient to decrease cholesterol across nearly all cultures throughout the world.

A 2013 review published in the Nutrition Reviews concluded that garlic can be used as an effective alternative to lower cholesterol in people who have slightly elevated cholesterol levels. Garlic was highly tolerable in all trials, it was associated with minimal side effects, and had higher safety levels than conventional cholesterol-lowering medications (7).

Psyllium 

Psyllium is rich in soluble fibers derived from the husks of seeds from a plant botanically known as Plantago ovata. It has a miraculous ability to alleviate cholesterol and blood sugar levels in the body. It also helps relieve constipation.

A research review published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2018 has confirmed that psyllium has the property to reduce LDL cholesterol and delay the process of atherosclerosis (clogged arteries).  Psyllium lowered the risk of cardiovascular diseases in people with or without higher levels of cholesterol (8).

Flaxseed

Flax is a flowering plant majorly grown in temperate zones in mild weather. The seeds and the oil extracted from them both contain a considerable amount of omega 3 fatty acids that show many health benefits including lowering LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol in the body.

Ginger

Ginger is widely used in the natural medicine system for its potent anti-inflammatory actions. It showed significant beneficial effects in reducing bad cholesterol levels in the human body.

A 2008 study in the Saudi Medical Journal showed ginger can lower bad fats and raise the good ones (9).

Berberine 

Berberine is a naturally occurring compound found in many plants, particularly in a shrub group called Berberis. Berberine is found in the roots, stems, and bark of various plants, including goldenseal, barberry, and Oregon grape, and has potent anti-inflammatory benefits. It shows cholesterol-lowering effects of the bad type.

Summary

These are some proven ways to normalize cholesterol naturally but there are more. For anyone who suspects or has been told they have high cholesterol, it’s best to seek out a naturopathic doctor or nutritionist so they can customize the best natural remedies for each individual.

In the meantime, have the person get outside for some good walks, put some garlic in their meals, avoid fast food and highly processed foods, and eat more salmon, walnuts and vegetables.

References:

  1. World Health Organization. “Cardiovascular Diseases.” int, World Health Organization: WHO, 2019, www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1.
  2. Barnard, R. James. “Effects of Life-Style Modification on Serum Lipids.” Archives of Internal Medicine, vol. 151, no. 7, 1 July 1991, pp. 1389–1394, jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/article-abstract/615295, 1001/archinte.1991.00400070141019.
  3. American Heart Association. “Trans Fats.” heart.org, 23 Mar. 2017, www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/fats/trans-fat.
  4. Li, Chaoyang, et al. “Global Surveillance of Trans-Fatty Acids.” Preventing Chronic Disease, vol. 16, 31 Oct. 2019, www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2019/19_0121.htm, 5888/pcd16.190121.
  5. Brown, Lisa, et al. “Cholesterol-Lowering Effects of Dietary Fiber: A Meta-Analysis.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 69, no. 1, 1 Jan. 1999, pp. 30–42, 1093/ajcn/69.1.30.
  6. Ulven, Stine M., et al. “Exchanging a Few Commercial, Regularly Consumed Food Items with Improved Fat Quality Reduces Total Cholesterol and LDL-Cholesterol: A Double-Blind, Randomised Controlled Trial.” British Journal of Nutrition, vol. 116, no. 8, 14 Oct. 2016, pp. 1383–1393, www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0007114516003445, 1017/s0007114516003445. Accessed 19 July 2020.
  7. “Validate User.” oup.com, academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/71/5/282/2460203?login=false.
  8. Jovanovski, Elena, et al. “Effect of Psyllium (Plantago Ovata) Fiber on LDL Cholesterol and Alternative Lipid Targets, Non-HDL Cholesterol and Apolipoprotein B: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 108, no. 5, 15 Sept. 2018, pp. 922–932, 1093/ajcn/nqy115.
  9. Alizadeh-Navaei, Reza, et al. “Investigation of the Effect of Ginger on the Lipid Levels. A Double Blind Controlled Clinical Trial.” Saudi Medical Journal, vol. 29, no. 9, 1 Sept. 2008, pp. 1280–1284, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18

Video: Sleep Remedies for Insomnia – Best Minerals to Take

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sleep remediesGreetings to you,

This brief video is an entertaining overview of the best minerals for creating a deeper, longer, more relaxing sleep.  In this article, we will go into more detail about each one of these sleep remedies.

There are four minerals that are researched and particularly proven to be good sleep remedies.

Calcium: This mineral is directly related to our cycles of sleep. In one study published in the European Neurology Journal, researchers found that calcium levels in the body are higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase.

Adelle Davis is one of the earliest nutritionists to base her dietary recommendations on scientific research studies. Davis writes about the roles of calcium in her book “Let’s Eat Right to Keep Fit.” She suggests natural sleep remedies for insomnia and 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.”

Magnesium: In magnesium deficiency, chronic insomnia is one of the main, central symptoms. Sleep is usually agitated with frequent nighttime awakenings. 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.

James F. Balch, M.D., author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, writes that: “A lack of the nutrients calcium and magnesium will cause you to wake up after a few hours and not be able to return to sleep.”

Zinc: A study in a scientific journal found evidence indicating that zinc may be involved in the regulation of sleep. Their research concludes that the amount of sleep varies according to the amount of zinc in the blood, while orally administered zinc increases the amount and the quality of sleep in mice and humans.

Another study on zinc points in the direction that people taking extra calcium should also increase their zinc intake in order to prevent calcium from blocking zinc absorption into the body. The richest dietary sources of zinc are oysters, liver and beef, followed by nuts, popcorn, poultry and lamb.

Potassium: One recent study from the Journal “Sleep” researched the effects of potassium supplements as sleep remedies.  After one week of taking potassium supplements, there were significant improvements in the quality of sleep and less waking up during the night.

A deficiency of potassium can interfere with restful sleep due to the potential for stiff muscles or muscle spasms in the night. The blood needs to maintain a good balance between potassium and sodium (salt).  Potassium is found abundantly in fresh vegetables and fruits, so these are a good focus as opposed to eating a lot of processed or packaged foods containing high sodium.

One popular supplement containing many of these minerals is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  Richard P. of Parkville, Maryland says, “The Sleep Minerals are making quite a difference. I was regularly waking up at around 3:00 a.m. and after a few days use my sleep improved quite a lot. I wake up once a night to go to the bathroom, but the great thing is, I then fall back asleep and sleep several more hours. This has been a great improvement.”

Make good use of minerals in foods and supplements to ensure getting a great night’s sleep.  To learn more, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

How to Sleep with a Snoring Spouse: Short Video

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snoring spouseGreetings to you,

If you’ve ever had to sleep with a snoring spouse, you’ll appreciate the practical and workable tips in this short video.

It covers the best positions for the snorer to sleep in, tips for them to sleep better, and some things that their mate can do.

Enjoy the video below and put it to good use as needed.

Here’s to your good health and great sleep,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II

The Top 7 Foods for Beautiful Skin

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Hello from Jobee at Nutrition Breakthroughs,

Today’s video (below) will reveal the top 7 foods for glorious, glowing skin at any age.

High quality proteins from organic, grass-fed and wild-caught sea sources will provide the building blocks for healthy skin.

Drinking plenty of fresh, filtered water hydrates the skin and smooths wrinkles and lines.

Healthy fats such as avocado, salmon and nuts provide moisture and healing properties.

Raw vegetables and leafy greens can turn back the clock for our skin, as well as many other areas of our health.

Enjoy the video!

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More

Best Herbs, Vitamins and Minerals for Sleep

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minerals for sleepBy Dr. Tariq of the  Nishtar Medical University in Pakistan

Do you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep during the night? After a hectic day, do you toss around in bed with a preoccupied, heavy head?

Finding the best supplements for better sleep can be frustrating with hundreds of ads and products on the internet.

Does our diet have a role in our sleep? What are the most proven natural sleep aids that have been revealed by scientific research? Read on to learn more about the best minerals, herbs, and vitamins for improving sleep at night.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), sleep problems are pretty common; in fact, about one-third of Americans do not get a good sleep. Sleep is as essential for a person as food is for a healthy life. A good amount of sleep is required for our brains to function properly.

Every day, good quality sleep enhances learning, memory, problem-solving, and creativity.

What’s more, lack of proper sleep is associated with anxiety, daytime drowsiness, and increased risk of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.1

Several supplements on the market contain natural sleep aids with herbs, vitamins, and minerals, but how do these supplements work, and which ones may be the best for an individual?2,3

The best thing to do is to try a small amount of each one of them separately and note the results in a journal. And then compare the results of each one as to which ones were the most beneficial.

HERBS THAT HELP YOU SLEEP

Here are some of the most well-known herbs for relaxation and better sleep.

CHAMOMILE

Chamomile is a herb that has been used for centuries to reduce anxiety, soothe your nerves, and help with sleep. It is normally used as tea or in capsules, as are most of the herbs for sleep.4,5

PASSIONFLOWER

Passionflower contains flavonoids which are a group of natural chemicals found in many herbs and fruits, possessing anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic (anti-cancer) properties. These act to reduce pain, calm the mind and help with sleep if added with other herbs like lemon balm.6

HOPS FLOWERS

Hops flowers contain a variety of compounds which remedy restlessness, nervousness and sleep difficulties. Pillows filled with these are also used for sleep.7

ASHWAGANDHA

Ashwagandha root extract is a natural compound that induces sleep, improves sleep quality, and soothes the nerves to relieve stress. It can help a person sleep better throughout the night.8

 KAVA

Kava helps some people with sleep disorders. Kava leaves are dried and used in capsules or tablets. It helps to reduce anxiety and provide a calmer, less stressed state of mind.9

MINERALS FOR SLEEP

Many minerals affect the state of health of our bodies and their various systems. A few minerals stand out as bright stars in the sky for their ability to induce good sleep.

MAGNESIUM

Difficulty in sleeping throughout the night is the first symptom of magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium is the essential nutrient for better sleep. It helps the body prepare melatonin, a sleep hormone made in the brain that directly aids good sleep.12

Magnesium also relieves muscle tension and mental stress by helping to produce amino acids, for example, GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid – a signaling molecule in the brain).13

Magnesium is found in green leafy vegetables, avocado, bananas and yogurt.

CALCIUM

Calcium is among the essential nutrients that significantly impact sleep by affecting REM sleep (rapid eye movement sleep – a phase of sleep when your brain is more active and your eyes move faster). Decreased calcium levels affect sleep cycles and lead to difficulty getting deeper and longer sleep.14

Calcium is found in dairy products such as almonds, cheese, yogurt, leafy greens and sardines.  By taking the correct amount of calcium, the sleep cycles of our body can be corrected.

Calcium should be taken in balance with magnesium in a two to one ratio, with twice as much calcium as magnesium.

BEST VITAMINS FOR SLEEP

Sometimes vitamin deficiency can be a cause of sleep deprivation.   If one or more of these are deficient in the diet, a good night’s sleep can become more difficult to obtain.

VITAMIN D

Many experts say that vitamin D deficiency is associated with sleep disorders and if your blood levels of Vitamin D fall to a low level, it can lead to sleep disorders and restless leg syndrome. A person can get vitamin D from sunlight, eggs, salmon, and mushrooms. Supplements can also be used.15

VITAMIN E

Vitamin E is perfect for hair, nails, and skin, but it is also an important nutrient that has a vital role in improving sleep at night. There is a close relationship between memory impairment and sleep deprivation.

Vitamin E has regenerating and oxygenating effects in the brain that can help prevent sleep deprivation-induced memory impairment.16 Vitamin E is found in almonds, leafy greens, sunflower seeds, avocados, and olive oil.

VITAMIN C

People with low levels of vitamin C may have problems with falling asleep and staying asleep at night.17 If vitamin C is used along with Vitamin E, it may help reduce the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Citrus fruit is a rich source of vitamin C, as well as kale, kiwi, red peppers and stawberries.18

B VITAMINS

Vitamin B-6 plays a vital role in immunity and recalling dreams. It is also essential for the production of melatonin, which is necessary for deep sleep. Hence a vitamin B-6 deficiency may lead to sleep disorders.

Natural sleep-aids with the B vitamins should contain the whole spectrum such as B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, and B-12, etc., to avoid any imbalances. They work better together to reduce stress and create melatonin. 19,20

Vitamin B-12 is important for brain and red blood cell functioning. It also helps by regulating sleep-wake cycles and REM sleep.21

THE BOTTOM LINE

Getting a good amount of sleep is vital for good health. Several herbs, minerals, and vitamins can be effective in helping a person fall asleep better and stay asleep longer.  They can be found at health food stores and at nutritionist and chiropractic offices.

Some other good sleep tips would be to go to bed and get up at the same time each day, keep the bedroom cool and dark while sleeping, and use a comfortable mattress, In addition, do some daily exercise that you enjoy such as walking, get outside for some sunlight during the day, and wear earplugs and an eye mask while sleeping.

This natural 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.

References:

  1. Saksvik-Lehouillier, I. et al. Mild to moderate partial sleep deprivation is associated with increased impulsivity and decreased positive affect in young adults. Sleep 43, (2020).
  2. Binks, H., Vincent, G. E., Gupta, C., Irwin, C. & Khalesi, S. Effects of Diet on Sleep: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2020, Vol. 12, Page 936 12, 936 (2020).
  3. Ji, X., Grandner, M. A. & Liu, J. The relationship between micronutrient status and sleep patterns: a systematic review. Public Health Nutrition 20, 687–701 (2017).
  4. Rafii, F., Ameri, F., Haghani, H. & Ghobadi, A. The effect of aromatherapy massage with lavender and chamomile oil on anxiety and sleep quality of patients with burns. Burns 46, 164–171 (2020).
  5. Chang, S. M. & Chen, C. H. Effects of an intervention with drinking chamomile tea on sleep quality and depression in sleep disturbed postnatal women: a randomized controlled trial. Journal of Advanced Nursing 72, 306–315 (2016).
  6. Lee, J., Jung, H. Y., Lee, S. I., Choi, J. H. & Kim, S. G. Effects of Passiflora incarnata Linnaeus on polysomnographic sleep parameters in subjects with insomnia disorder: a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. International clinical psychopharmacology 35, 29–35 (2020).
  7. Benkherouf, A. Y., Eerola, K., Soini, S. L. & Uusi-Oukari, M. Humulone Modulation of GABAA Receptors and Its Role in Hops Sleep-Promoting Activity. Frontiers in Neuroscience 14, 1100 (2020).
  8. Cheah, K. L., Norhayati, M. N., Yaacob, L. H. & Rahman, R. A. Effect of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on sleep: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLOS ONE 16, e0257843 (2021).
  9. Bruni, O., Ferini-Strambi, L., Giacomoni, E. & Pellegrino, P. Herbal Remedies and Their Possible Effect on the GABAergic System and Sleep. Nutrients 2021, Vol. 13, Page 530 13, 530 (2021).
  10. Abbasi, B. et al. The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Research in Medical Sciences : The Official Journal of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences 17, 1161 (2012).
  11. Cao, Y. et al. Magnesium Intake and Sleep Disorder Symptoms: Findings from the Jiangsu Nutrition Study of Chinese Adults at Five-Year Follow-Up. Nutrients 2018, Vol. 10, Page 1354 10, 1354 (2018).
  12. Grandner, M. A., Jackson, N., Gerstner, J. R. & Knutson, K. L. Sleep symptoms associated with intake of specific dietary nutrients. Journal of Sleep Research 23, 22–34 (2014).
  13. Romano, F. et al. Vitamin D and Sleep Regulation: Is there a Role for Vitamin D? Current Pharmaceutical Design 26, 2492–2496 (2020).
  14. Alzoubi, K. H., Khabour, O. F., Rashid, B. A., Damaj, I. M. & Salah, H. A. The neuroprotective effect of vitamin E on chronic sleep deprivation-induced memory impairment: The role of oxidative stress. Behavioural Brain Research 226, 205–210 (2012).
  15. Otocka-Kmiecik, A. & Krol, A. The Role of Vitamin C in Two Distinct Physiological States: Physical Activity and Sleep. Nutrients 2020, Vol. 12, Page 3908 12, 3908 (2020).
  16. Grebe, M. et al. Antioxidant Vitamin C Improves Endothelial Function in Obstructive Sleep Apnea. https://doi.org/10.1164/rccm.200508-1223OC 173, 897–901 (2012).
  17. Aspy, D. J., Madden, N. A. & Delfabbro, P. Effects of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and a B Complex Preparation on Dreaming and Sleep. Perceptual and Motor Skills 125, 451–462 (2018).
  18. Mayer, G., Kröger, M. & Meier-Ewert, K. Effects of vitamin B12 on performance and circadian rhythm in normal subjects. Neuropsychopharmacology 15, 456–464 (1996).

The Top 6 Stress Relief Remedies – Short Video

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stress reliefGreetings to you,

Are you stressed out?  Do you know anyone who has a lot of stress in their life?  This video will be a breath of fresh air for them.

Take a look and then feel free to share it with family or friends who would like it.  Here’s to relief from stress for all of us!

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II

True Story #3: Real Reviews from Real People for Nutrition Breakthroughs

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nutrition breakthroughs reviewsGreetings to you,

This is Jobee Knight from Nutrition Breakthroughs. Thank you for being a valued reader of the natural health discoveries I share!

This article is #3 in a series that tells the true story of how Nutrition Breakthroughs started and how it’s health articles and supplements came into being.

In the last article I talked about my own struggles with insomnia and how I finally solved it.  And also how I came to develop a nutritional product that would help other sleepless people to sleep better.

I had also seen people struggle with joint stiffness and pain that interfered with their lives and activities, so I created a product that remedies this.

Over the last nine years since providing these products, I’ve spoken with customers over the phone and in emails and helped them to do better.

When they need it, I help them to customize the use of the supplements to their own particular needs.

So now, moving forward to the present, Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More are both sold on the Nutrition Breakthroughs website and also on Amazon.

The Amazon’s Choice badge is proudly displayed on the Sleep Minerals II listing with the statement that: “Amazon’s Choice highlights highly rated, well-priced products, available to ship immediately.”

Here’s a sample of some real reviews from real people:

R. Boulos of Houston, TX. says: “I’ve been taking the Joints and More and it’s helping a great deal. After taking it twice a day, I notice that when I wake up in the morning the pain I was having in my front and back shoulders is almost gone.”

C. Drozdowski says: “After about a month of starting to take Joints and More my hair began growing like crazy. I figured if my hair was growing that fast, then maybe my nails would also. So I took my fake nails off and for the first time in my entire nail-biting life I have MY OWN nails! They are getting stronger with each passing week.”

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.”

Richard P. of Parkville, Maryland says: “The Sleep Minerals are making quite a difference. I was regularly waking up at around 3:00 a.m. and after a few days use my sleep improved quite a lot. I wake up once a night to go to the bathroom, but the great thing is, I then fall back asleep and sleep several more hours. This has been a great improvement.”

Be sure to let me know if you have any questions about how to have better sleep or stronger joints and bones.  You can email me at info@nutritionbreakthroughs.com.

Here’s to your good health and long life!

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More

4 Great Health Tips and ‘Joints and More’ Now on Amazon

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Joints and MoreGreetings to you,

It’s Jobee at Nutrition Breakthroughs. Hope you and your family are staying healthy and doing good.

Today I’m happy to announce that our newest product ‘Joints and More‘ is available on Amazon. It helps with joint pain, stiffness, allergies, increasing energy and more. See some reviews for it below.

In the mean time, here are four select health tips for increasing your good health and well-being:

1. Choose healthy foods and increase vegetables and fruits that you enjoy. Eat healthy, preferably organic proteins such as grass-fed meat, wild Alaskan salmon and organic eggs.

2. Take a walk each day or a couple of short walks. This supports virtually every organ and system in your body to stay strong. Walking is also proven to help good sleep and remedy insomnia.

3. Take supplements that suit you. Some options are fish oil for reducing inflammation and supporting the eyes and brain. Another one is MSM to remedy joint pain, stiffness and aches, and also ease allergies and increase energy.

4. To reduce stress, take breaks to do artistic or creative things that you enjoy. When communicating with others, express things in a positive, upbeat way.

And now, a drum roll for the new product announcement. Our newest product “Joints health tips and More” with pure MSM is now available on Amazon.

Here are a couple of reviews for it:

R. Boulos of Houston, TX. says: “I’ve been taking the Joints and More supplement and it’s helping a great deal. After taking it twice a day, I notice that when I wake up in the morning the joint pain I was having in my front and back shoulders is almost gone.”

C. Drozdowski says: “After about a month of starting to take Joints and More my hair began growing like crazy. I figured if my hair was growing that fast, then maybe my nails would also. So I took my fake nails off and for the first time in my entire nail-biting life I have MY OWN nails! They are getting stronger with each passing week.”

To your good health,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs