Tag Archives: magnesium sleep

Discover the Best Fruits for Sleep: Rest Well and Long

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fruits for sleepFor anyone who has trouble falling asleep or staying asleep in the night, a growing body of research shows that certain fruits can naturally help to improve sleep quality.

Packed with essential minerals and vitamins, these fruits support your body in having a deeper, longer night’s sleep.  This can lead to more energy in your day and more alertness, productivity, and quality time with family and friends.

Kiwi: The Sleep Booster

Kiwi is often celebrated for its impressive sleep-enhancing properties. This fruit is rich in serotonin, which helps regulate your sleep cycle. It’s also a great source of magnesium, known for its calming effects on the nervous system. A study published in the *Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition* found that eating two kiwis an hour before bed improved sleep onset, duration, and quality (Liu, 2011). Plus, its high level of healthy plant chemicals promotes overall well-being, helping you rest more soundly.

Bananas: Magnesium-Packed for Relaxationfruits for sleep

Bananas are another fruit known for sleep benefits. Packed with magnesium and potassium, bananas help relax your muscles, which is vital for preparing your body for restful sleep.

A study published in the *Journal of Research in Medical Sciences* revealed that magnesium can significantly improve insomnia in older adults (Abbasi, 2012). Bananas are also high in vitamin B6, which helps your body produce melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep cycles.

Cherries: Natural Melatonin Source

Cherries, especially tart cherries, are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin, the hormone that governs sleep-wake cycles. According to a study in the *European Journal of Nutrition*, consuming tart cherry juice improved sleep duration and efficiency in adults with insomnia (Howatson, 2012). The beneficial effects of melatonin in cherries helps to promote deeper, more restorative sleep.

Figs: A Calcium-Rich Sleep Aid

Figs are a lesser-known fruit that can do wonders for sleep. They are rich in calcium, a mineral that helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture melatonin. In addition to calcium, figs provide magnesium and potassium, which support muscle relaxation and help ease tension, both of which are key for a good night’s rest (Healthline, 2021).

Avocado: A Fruit with Vitamin D for Sleep Regulation

Avocado contains small amounts of vitamin D, as well as healthy fats.  These plant-based fats help to increase the absorption of vitamin D from other foods such as mushrooms, eggs and fish.  Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with shorter sleep durations and disturbed sleep patterns (from the journal “Medical Hypothesis”). Adding avocado to your evening snack, along with mushrooms or eggs, can help regulate your sleep cycle and promote longer periods of rest.

These fruits can pack some powerful sleep-enhancing benefits, helping you wake up refreshed and energized. Try incorporating these into your diet for a natural, delicious way to boost your sleep quality.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint support, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Suzanne G. of Tucson, Arizona says: “I am now taking the Sleep Mineral II each night. I have had insomnia for most of my life and the longer I take Sleep Minerals, the better I sleep. The best thing is that I can now get back to sleep if I wake up in the night. It has given me such a sense of peace to know that I now can be well rested during the day. I also find my brain less foggy from lack of sleep. I have tried many products on the market and this is the one that is gold. Thank you so much for producing a quality product!”

For more info, visit the Sleep Minerals II page on Amazon.

Nutrition Breakthroughs Reveals Hot Flash Causes and Remedies

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hot flash remediesHot flash remedies are in high demand for women.  A hot flash, also called a hot flush, is a sudden unexpected feeling of warmth and often a breakout of sweating in the upper half of the body.

A night sweat is a “hot flash” that occurs in the night, often while one is sleeping. These flashes are experienced by 80% of women around the time of menopause, and men can also have them due to a lessening of testosterone in middle age.

At night time while a woman sleeps, her body temperature rises steeply just prior to a hot flash, and may cause her to wake up.  The National Sleep Foundation writes that as many as 61% of post-menopausal women report having symptoms of insomnia and less satisfying sleep, due in part to hot flashes interrupting their sleep with frequent awakenings.

Dr. John R. Lee, M.D. explains the source of hot flashes in his book: “What Your Doctor May Not Tell You about Menopause”. There is an area of the brain that controls the amounts of estrogen and progesterone made by the ovaries. When these two hormones become depleted as in menopause, the brain sends out signals for the ovaries to make more hormones, but they no longer respond to these prompts.

The signaling system can go awry as the brain sends out more and more signals and actually begins to “shout”.  This over-activity begins to affect adjacent areas of the brain; particularly the area that controls body temperature and sweating mechanisms — thus the occurrence of hot flashes.

Sometimes spicy food, hot beverages, caffeine, alcohol or cigarettes can bring on a hot flash. For help with night sweats in bed, keep the bedroom cool and keep a washcloth in a bowl of ice near the bed to use on the forehead or chest as needed. To minimize hot flashes during the summer weather, stay cool by using fans and drinking cold drinks. Keep air conditioners on and make sure that air is circulating throughout the room. Dress in layers so you can peel them off as needed.

Vitamins E and C have been shown in studies to help reduce hot flashes.  One study supporting vitamin E was published in “Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation” and concluded that vitamin E is effective and is a recommended treatment for hot flashes. Extensive research indicates that vitamin C strengthens blood vessels and acts as a potent health enhancement. In a study that combined vitamin C with bioflavonoids (the white matter on the inside of orange peels), 67% of the subjects reported complete relief from hot flashes.

The minerals calcium and magnesium can also help with deeper, sounder sleep and are hot flash remedies, particularly because estrogen in women and testosterone in men helps to keep these minerals in circulation in the body, and when these hormones are depleted, more frequent mineral supplementation is needed.

Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs is an example of a natural insomnia remedy that provides good results for menopause symptoms. It contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleep and insomnia, heart health, restless legs syndrome and bone strength.

The formula also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Anita L. of New Caney, Texas says: “I was having hot flashes every 30 minutes to an hour through the night and was so miserable.  After about two weeks of taking the Sleep Minerals, I noticed an incredible difference with my sleep.  I have much less interruption from hot flashes, I’m sleeping much better and I’m a lot more comfortable.”

Valerie from Santa Clarita, California says: “I had such bad menopause insomnia that it took me hours to fall asleep even though I was extremely tired. My legs also had crawling and tingling feelings at night. I got the Sleep Minerals and took them and after a few days, it started to work really well. I fall asleep now within 20 minutes and no more restless legs.”

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

New Vibrant Labels for Sleep Minerals II, Joints and More

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sleep minerals IINutrition Breakthroughs,
a leader in natural healthJoints and More supplements, is pleased to announce the creation of new vibrant colors and bright, descriptive design effects for the labels of its best-selling products, Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More.

The new Sleep Minerals II label has a relaxing night-time theme with moon shapes, stars, and a deep purple sky blended with blue and magenta shades.

The new Joints and More label is purple, gold and magenta, with a large golden drop of light on the front that represents the freer movement, joint relief, and increased energy provided by the product.

Sleep Minerals II

Sleep Minerals II is the original and effective calcium and magnesium-based sleep aid, designed to provide relief for those suffering from insomnia and sleeplessness. With its proprietary combination of absorbable calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and zinc, it helps people fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, get back to sleep easier in the night, and wake up refreshed without grogginess.

Delivered in a unique softgel form, Sleep Minerals II ensures rapid and easy absorption, offering a distinct advantage over traditional tablets, capsules or gummies, which take longer to break d own and digest.

Joints and More

Joints and More is a natural supplement containing MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), a powerful ingredient proven effective for joint relief and reducing aches, stiffness and discomfort.  Additionally, it enhances collagen in the body and supports stronger hair and nails.

It is also known to help relieve allergies and boost energy levels, making it an all-in-one solution for those seeking comprehensive health benefits.

Customer Reviews

Sleep Minerals II

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.”

Joints and More

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 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.”

Scientific Support

Research supports the effectiveness of the ingredients in Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More:

Sleep Minerals II

– A study published in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences found that magnesium supplementation improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia symptoms.

– Research in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society highlighted that zinc, in combination with magnesium and calcium, can enhance sleep quality in older adults.

Joints and More

– A study titled “Efficacy of MSM in osteoarthritis pain of the knee” demonstrated that MSM supplementation significantly reduced joint pain and improved physical function in individuals with osteoarthritis.

– Research published in Biomolecules indicates that MSM may enhance hair and nail health by supporting keratin and collagen production.

About Nutrition Breakthroughs

Since 2002 Nutrition Breakthroughs has provided products that effectively work and deliver results, helping people avoid the side effects and addiction associated with drugs and medications. They are also known for providing science-based health articles that are designed to clarify and simplify the subjects of good nutrition and natural health.

Nutrition Breakthroughs products are safe and made in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). They have an “A” rating for this by the National Products Association (NPA). The manufacturer also meets the FDA’s cGMP program, which refers to the Current Good Manufacturing Practice regulations enforced by the FDA.

For more information about Sleep Minerals II visit this page.

For more details on Joins and More visit this page.

Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess – Issue #3

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facts on nutrition Welcome to another round of “Fun Facts on Nutrition You’d Never Guess!”

Did you know that …

1. Mushrooms Are the Only Non-Animal Source of Vitamin D

Mushrooms are unique in the plant kingdom for their ability to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This makes them a fantastic dietary source of this essential nutrient, which is crucial for bone health and immune function. Let your mushrooms sunbathe before eating them for a greater vitamin boost.

Reference: Koyyalamudi, S. R., et al. (2009). Vitamin D2 formation and bioavailability from Agaricus bisporus button mushrooms treated with ultraviolet irradiation. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 57(8), 3351-3355.

2. Cucumbers Are 96% Water, Detox the Body, and Heal the Skin

Cucumbers are one of the most hydrating foods you can eat, with a whopping 96% water content. This makes them perfect for keeping you refreshed and hydrated, especially in warm weather.  Cucumber helps cleanse the body by eliminating built-up waste and toxins. The fresh fruit juice nourishes the skin, providing a calming effect for skin irritations and reducing swelling. Plus, they are low in calories and high in vitamins K and C, making them a nutritious snack.

Reference: Sun, J., et al. (2013). Nutritional and phytochemical properties of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research, 11(1), 25-32.

3. Garlic Was Used as a Multipurpose Medicine in Ancient Times

Garlic has been used for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. In earlier days, when antibiotics and other drugs weren’t in existence, the garlic clove stood in the place of the pharmaceutical industry for its large rainbow of potent health benefits. Modern science supports many of these uses. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.  It also can prevent the common cold and arthritis.

Reference: Rivlin, R. S. (2001). Historical perspective on the use of garlic. Journal of Nutrition, 131(3), 951S-954S.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition fascinating? From hydrating, healing cucumbers to garlic being our first medicine, these fun facts highlight the amazing world of food. Stay tuned for the next issue and have a happy and healthy week!

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Minerals for Good Sleep Quality: Studies Show Zinc Effective

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sleep qualityRecent studies have highlighted the significant benefits of zinc in promoting better sleep quality.

These findings come as welcome news to the 50 to 70 million adults in the United States suffering from sleep disorders, many of whom turn to medications for relief.

These figures come from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences demonstrates that zinc can help individuals fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling refreshed.

Zinc is a vital mineral for sleep regulation and it is also the most important mineral for immune function. The amount of zinc present in the body is a factor that can determine the quality and quantity of sleep. Zinc aids in the manufacture of chemical messengers in the brain such as melatonin and serotonin, which support a sound night’s sleep and help to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

In another study, published in the Workplace Health and Safety Journal, researchers found that participants who supplemented with zinc experienced shorter sleep latency, meaning they fell asleep more quickly compared to those who did not take zinc. The study also indicated that zinc contributed to increased sleep duration and improved overall sleep quality.

These benefits make zinc a promising natural alternative to traditional sleeping pills, which can have numerous side effects and lead to addiction. With over 9 million Americans using prescription sleep aids (per the CDC), zinc offers a natural solution that can enhance sleep without the risk of dependency or adverse effects.

The popular natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs combines zinc with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D to create an effective natural remedy for sleep troubles. The blend of these essential minerals works synergistically to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.

L.R.C. of Massachusetts says: “I had become dependent on sleeping drugs and couldn’t sleep without them. Now I take the Sleep Minerals before bed and I can sleep through the night without drugs. I’m also able to easily fall back to sleep if I do have to get up. Another benefit is this helps alleviate my chronic fatigue and aches and pains.”

For those seeking a natural way to improve sleep, Sleep Minerals II can be found online at the Nutrition Breakthroughs website and at Amazon. By addressing nutrient deficiencies and supporting the body’s natural sleep processes, Sleep Minerals II offers a safe and effective alternative to sleeping pills, harnessing the power of zinc and other vital minerals.

Top Five Healthy Food Choices

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This natural health info on the top five healthy food choices is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy

healthy food

Top 10 Drinks for Sleep and Sweet Dreams: Sip to Sleep

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drinks for sleepIn a fast-paced world where sleep can sometimes feel like an unattainable luxury, finding natural ways to drift off peacefully can be a life-saver.

Thankfully, there are some drinks for sleep that are packed with ingredients that promote a deeper, longer-lasting rest. Have a look at these top 10 drinks that can help you achieve a night of restful slumber, featuring natural vitamins, minerals and herbs.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea is the superstar of bedtime drinks for sleep. It contains apigenin, a powerful plant substance that binds to areas in the brain to promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia  Think of it as a gentle nudge towards your pillow (from a 2011 study).

Sour Cherry Juice for Sleep

Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep and wake cycles. Research has shown that drinking tart cherry juice can significantly improve sleep duration and quality of sleep (from a 2010 study).

Warm milk

Warm milk isn’t just a comforting childhood memory. It’s rich in calcium and tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts melatonin levels, promoting sleep.

Almond Milk

Almond milk is a fantastic source of magnesium and calcium, both of which are crucial for good sleep. Magnesium helps relax the muscles and nerves and calms the body and mind (from a study in the Journal of Natural Medicine).

Banana Smoothie

Bananas are loaded with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, which aid in the production of melatonin. Blend a fresh or frozen banana with one cup of milk or almond milk and a half cup of ice, and you’ve got a delicious, sleep-inducing smoothie (from the Role of Bananas in the Sleep-Wake Cycle; Journal of Food Science and Technology).

Lemon Balm Tea

Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Its calming effects can help ease you into a restful night’s sleep (from a 2006 study).

Golden Milk

Golden milk, made with turmeric, milk, and honey, is not only delicious but also packed with sleep-enhancing properties. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve mood, indirectly promoting better sleep (from a 2019 study).

To make golden milk, combine 1 cup milk (or almond, coconut, oat milk), a half teaspoon turmeric powder, and one teaspoon honey or maple syrup.  Boil and then simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, cool and enjoy.

Oat Straw Tea

Oat straw is an herb rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. It’s known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it an excellent choice for a bedtime beverage (from Nutritional Neuroscience).

Passionflower Tea

Passionflower tea can increase levels of GABA, a brain chemical that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation (from a Phytotherapy Journal; meaning plant therapy).

Coconut Water

Coconut water is rich in magnesium and potassium.  If there is a deficiency of these minerals, it can lead to insomnia, leg cramps, and more. Coconut water is high in minerals and is a hydrating and soothing option for winding down at the end of the day.

Sip, Relax and Sleep

Try whichever one first that is the most appealing to you and start with small amounts.  Observe the effects it has on your sleep and see if it agrees with you.  If it doesn’t help, try the next one.  You will certainly find one or more natural drinks for sleep that will help you relax.  If you are taking any medications, keep in touch with your doctor and let them know which drinks you are trying.

With these delicious and scientifically-backed drinks for sleep, you’ll be on your way to a peaceful, rejuvenating night’s rest. So raise a cup to sweet dreams, sleep well, and wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day!

This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

References

  1. Pigeon, W. R., Carr, M., Gorman, C., & Perlis, M. (2010). Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 13(3), 579-583.
  2. Zick, S. M., Wright, B. D., Sen, A., & Arnedt, J. T. (2011). Preliminary examination of the efficacy and safety of a standardized chamomile extract for chronic primary insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11(1), 78.
  3. Barbagallo, M., & Dominguez, L. J. (2010). Magnesium and aging. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 16(7), 832-839.
  4. Balderas, J., González-Dávalos, L., & Alonso, R. (2013). Role of bananas in the sleep-wake cycle. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 50(6), 1269-1276.
  5. Kennedy, D. O., Little, W., & Scholey, A. B. (2006). Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosomatic Medicine, 68(5), 732-737.
  6. Jahromi, S. R., Maleki, M., & Berrang, J. M. (2019). The effects of curcumin on sleep deprivation: a review. Neurochemical Research, 44(3), 499-507.
  7. Mitchell, J., Smith, M., & Macleod, K. (2011). Oat straw extract improves cognitive performance in healthy adults. Nutritional Neuroscience, 14(5), 236-242.
  8. Ngan, A., & Conduit, R. (2011). A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1153-1159.

Google Searches Triple on Magnesium for Sleep vs. Melatonin

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magnesium for sleepGoogle Trends provides valuable insights into the public’s interests and shows how many people are searching for different health topics and conditions.

As of June 2024, data from Google Trends reveals that magnesium has collected three times as many searches as melatonin, indicating a significant public interest in understanding its benefits, particularly for sleep.

Understanding Melatonin and Magnesium for Sleep

Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including muscle relaxation and nerve function, both vital for restful sleep. It supports heart health (also a muscle) and is a proven remedy hot flashes, depression and migraines. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, signaling the body when it’s time to sleep.

Magnesium: Dr. Carolyn Dean, a nutritionist and author, states, “Magnesium is vital for muscle and nerve function, promoting relaxation, and helping to ease the body into a state conducive to sleep.”

Melatonin: According to Dr. Michael Grandner, a sleep researcher, “Melatonin is effective for adjusting the body’s internal clock, making it particularly useful for managing jet lag or shift work disorder.”

Side Effects and Safety

Magnesium: Common side effects from taking too much include digestive issues such as diarrhea or stomach cramps.  Dr. Dean advises, “It’s crucial to start with a lower dose to see how your body reacts and consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any supplement regimen.”

Melatonin: Possible side effects of melatonin include drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, and, in some cases, mood changes. Dr. Grandner notes, “Melatonin is best used as a short-term solution. Long-term use can disrupt your natural sleep cycle and potentially lead to dependency.”  Taking it for too long can also interfere with the body’s ability to make its own melatonin.

Effectiveness and Safety

For those who need to address a magnesium deficiency, or those who experience muscle spasms, cramps, or fatigue, magnesium might be more effective as it remedies the deficiency and also induces overall relaxation for better sleep. For individuals who travel or need to reset their sleep schedule, short-term use of melatonin can help.

In terms of safety, both substances are relatively safe when used correctly. However, because melatonin is a hormone, it should be used more cautiously, especially over long periods. Magnesium’s side effects are mostly related to dosage, making it somewhat safer for regular use.

Conclusion

The significant difference between magnesium and melatonin in Google searches highlights a growing curiosity about magnesium for sleep and the benefits it can provide. Magnesium and melatonin serve different purposes and have separate safety profiles. Choosing the right one depends on your specific sleep needs.

If you are taking any medications, its best to consult with your doctor about the use of supplements.

Nutrition Breakthroughs

This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

Proven Remedies for a Stronger Immune System

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immune systemPublic interest in immune system health continues to increase, with online searches for infections, viruses, allergies, coughs, fever, and headaches coming up among the top health-related inquiries.

Recent discoveries in the field of immunity have shed new light on how individuals can boost their immune system to achieve greater resilience against illnesses.

Research news published in several journals highlight the importance of specific nutrients — Calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc — in enhancing immune function.

Calcium: Beyond Bone Health

Traditionally celebrated for its role in building strong bones and teeth, calcium is now recognized for its immune-boosting properties. A study published in Frontiers in Immunology revealed that calcium plays a critical role in activating immune cells. These cells are essential for identifying and eliminating pathogens.  A pathogen is any organism that causes disease, like a bacteria or virus.

Magnesium: The Silent Immune Modulator

Magnesium, often dubbed the “forgotten mineral,” is vital for numerous physiological functions, including immune response regulation. Research in immunological journals has discovered that magnesium deficiency can impair the function of T cells, which are crucial for adaptive immunity. Adaptive immunity occurs when someone’s immune system has a response to a substance or to fungus or bacteria. Ensuring adequate magnesium intake can help maintain a balanced immune response, reducing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases.

Vitamin D: The Immune System’s Best Friend

Vitamin D, widely known for its role in bone health and mood regulation, has emerged as a key player in immune health. According to a comprehensive review in the Journal “Nutrients” vitamin D enhances the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages – those white blood cells that are important parts of our immune defense.

Vitamin D cell receptors are found on most cells of the immune system.  A receptor is a part of a cell that receives and responds to a substance, so immune cells need vitamin D to function. Vitamin D supports healthy bones, reduces diabetes risk, strengthens the immune system, remedies insomnia, soothes skin conditions, and reduces inflammation.

Zinc: The Gatekeeper of Immune Function

Zinc is essential for maintaining the integrity and function of the immune system. Zinc has been used since ancient times to help heal wounds and low levels of zinc can increase the risk of infections. It is a well-known remedy for reducing the duration of the common cold.  People with low zinc levels have less infection-fighting immune cells and their thymus gland (in which these immune cells develop), is smaller. When given extra zinc, their thymus grows and starts pumping out greater immunity.

A Combined Approach to Immune Health

Combining these nutrients through a balanced diet or appropriate supplementation can synergistically enhance immune function. Foods rich in these nutrients include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, eggs, beans, salmon, sardines, dairy, whole grains and shell fish. In addition to dietary sources, targeted supplements can be beneficial, especially for individuals with specific deficiencies or increased nutritional needs.

Conclusion

New research continues to unravel the complexities of the immune system, but the foundational nutrients for keeping it strong remain in place.  Incorporating key nutritional elements like calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc into our daily lives, in the form of foods or supplements, is good advice for staying strong, healthy, and resistant to infection.

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of Sleep Minerals II.  Sleep Minerals II is a unique softgel supplement featuring highly absorbable forms of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc. Not only the best minerals and vitamins for strengthening immune function, but also for helping with falling asleep and staying asleep through the night. Visit the Sleep Minerals II page for more info.

Beyond Back Pain: Chiropractic Benefits Increase Overall Health

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overall healthFor many people, chiropractic care conjures up images of spinal adjustments for back pain relief.

While that’s certainly a core strength of chiropractic, recent advancements in the field are revealing its potential to address a wider range of health concerns.

Here are some exciting developments on how chiropractic can support our overall health and well-being.

Integration with Traditional Medicine

The walls between chiropractic and traditional medicine are thinning.  A 2021 study from the Boston Medical Center Family Practice Journal found that over 70% of medical doctors in Canada reported collaborating with chiropractors for patient care. This collaborative approach allows for a wider treatment plan with more options, potentially reducing reliance on medications and improving long-term health outcomes.

Headaches and Migraines

Chronic headaches and migraines are a significant burden for many. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Headache and Pain found that chiropractic care was as effective as medication in reducing headache frequency. This offers a drug-free option for those seeking relief.

Improved Sleep Quality

A 2010 article in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine offers some news for those having trouble getting a good night’s rest.  The article reports on studies that have found improvements in insomnia following hands-on chiropractic therapy. This is great news as better sleep can definitely have a ripple effect on a person’s overall health and well-being.

Enhanced Athletic Performance

Athletes that push their bodies can often experience aches and pains. A 2019 Research Gate review concluded that: “The use of chiropractic in sports can improve performance and reduce injury times in medical rehabilitation. Chiropractic in sports is therefore quite efficient.”

Chiropractors Working Alongside Nutritionists

Chiropractic care can be a valuable addition to a person’s overall health and wellness strategy. When combined with a balanced diet, it can lead to significant improvements in health. A chiropractor and nutritionist can work together to create a personalized plan that addresses a person’s unique needs.

For instance, a focus on anti-inflammatory foods can complement and enhance chiropractic care for pain management, immunity, heart health, and other benefits. Some of these foods include berries, nuts, broccoli, salmon, sardines, cooked vegetables, olive oil and leafy greens.

Real-World Examples

Imagine Sarah, a busy marketing professional who suffers from frequent headaches and neck pain. Chiropractic adjustments, combined with ergonomic workstation adjustments, could help improve her posture, reduce nerve irritation, and alleviate her headaches.

For John, an avid runner experiencing leg pain, chiropractic care could address joint misalignments, improve flexibility, and potentially enhance his running performance.

Summary

Chiropractic care is evolving beyond its traditional roots.  Research suggests it can be a valuable tool for managing a variety of health concerns while promoting overall health and well-being.  If you’re looking for a drug-free, natural, and effective approach to greater health, consider chiropractic care in combination with good nutrition.

This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep remedy Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.