Health Benefits of Vitamins A, B, and E

Greetings to you,

Vitamin A is beneficial for healthy vision, strong bones and teeth and good immunity.  It is found in apricots, peaches and other orange and yellow fruits, dark leafy green vegetables, sweet potato, carrots, liver, eggs and fish.

The B vitamins actually include 8 different vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, etc.  They help form our nerves and blood vessels, keep our organs healthy such as the heart and liver, and also keep our metabolism strong.  B vitamins are found in grass-fed meat, organ meats, fish, yogurt, cheese, seeds, nuts, beans, lentils, peas and whole grains.

Eat vitamin-rich foods!

This natural health news is provided to you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, stronger hair, better nails and more energy.

Top Foods to Remedy Insomnia and Give Better Sleep

foods to remedy insomniaInsomnia and sleeplessness are a widespread problem.  Sleep inducing foods and relaxing minerals are a first-line remedy to help people with insomnia to fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.

Many of these foods to remedy insomnia are high in melatonin, magnesium and potassium and are supported by research studies.

Melatonin is a hormone that’s produced in the brain.  At night or in the dark, melatonin is naturally released to regulate the sleep cycle.  A recent study on the use of melatonin-rich foods for sleep appeared in the journal “Nutrients”.  The study was called “Dietary Sources of Melatonin.”

The researchers noted that nuts contain some of the highest quantities of melatonin.  Topping the list are almonds and walnuts.  Almonds deliver a two-part punch as they are also high in magnesium, a mineral known to induce sleep.

Bananas are high in both magnesium and potassium, and each of these minerals are proven to help good sleep in research studies.  The Journal “Sleep” recently reported that the use of potassium for sleep results in significant improvements in quality of sleep and less waking up during the night.

Other good sources of potassium include cooked spinach, salmon, avocado, cooked broccoli, avocado, potatoes, cantaloupe, tomatoes, peas, mushrooms, sweet potatoes and yogurt.

Those experiencing sleeplessness or insomnia should definitely include more of these healthy sources of potassium in their diet.  And even more vital than potassium, the two most famous minerals for calming insomnia are calcium and magnesium.  This is what makes warm milk one of the most popular natural sleep aids.

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.”  The European Neurology Journal supports this with their study showing that the normal course of sleep can be restored by increasing calcium levels in the body.

Regarding the use of minerals for insomnia, a study called “The Nutritional Relationships of Magnesium” discusses the differences between calcium and magnesium and their effects on sleep.  The author notes that the type of insomnia associated with a calcium deficiency causes difficulty with falling asleep.

On the other hand, the classical sign of magnesium deficiency is insomnia characterized by falling asleep easily, but awakening frequently throughout the night, with individuals finding themselves tired even after several hours of sleep.

A balanced ratio of calcium to magnesium is important to overall health and the two minerals should be taken together for best results.  The best calcium and magnesium ratio is twice as much calcium as magnesium.

One natural insomnia remedy showing good results is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This natural sleep aid contains potent forms of calcium and magnesium, the best known minerals for relaxation and sleep, as well as for restless leg syndrome, stomach health, teenage insomnia and menopause insomnia.  The ingredients are formulated in a softgel with healthy oils, making them more quickly absorbed than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Richard P. of Parkville, Maryland says: “The Sleep Minerals are making quite a difference.  I was regularly waking at around 3:00 a.m. and after a few days use my sleep improved quite a lot.  I wake 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.”

Sleep inducing foods and minerals are a healthy alternative to taking sleeping drugs. Make good use of them as an insomnia remedy.

Diabetes Prevention: Study Finds Specific Fruits are Remedies

                  
Because of the natural sugars in fruit, one might think that it should be avoided in order to prevent diabetes.

On the contrary, a study recently published in the British Medical Journal has found that greater consumption of specific whole fruits, particularly blueberries, grapes, and apples, is significantly associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes (adult-onset diabetes), whereas greater consumption of fruit juice is associated with a higher risk.

Fruits are very rich in antioxidants, which are substances that protect our tissues from the reactions of oxygen inside the body.  Natural processes such as digestion and metabolism create accumulated oxygen reactions that contribute to the aging and disease process.  Fruits are good at neutralizing these particles and are also a valuable source of fiber and plant coloring and pigments that have beneficial health effects.

The study on fruit’s effect on diabetes prevention was centered at the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston.  Participants totaled 187,000 people and were women from the Nurses’ Health Study (1984-2008), women from the Nurses’ Health Study II (1991-2009), and men from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (1986-2008).  They were all free of major diseases at the starting point. Questionnaires were used to collect detailed data.

While blueberries, grapes, and apples provided the most benefits for diabetes prevention, blueberries provided the greatest advantage when three servings per week were eaten — a 26% reduction in the odds to develop diabetes.  Servings of cantaloupe on the other hand, increased the risk by 10%, and three servings of fruit juice increased the risk by 8%.  Peaches, plums, apricots, prunes, oranges, and strawberries had a neutral risk for diabetes.

Blueberries have other significant health benefits as well. The bilberry fruit is a close cousin to the famous blueberry. During World War II, British fighter pilots reported improved nighttime vision after eating bilberry jam.

One of the most important studies on bilberries was done by researchers at the Human Nutrition Research Center in Boston, MA. The researchers used an enriched extract of bilberry in a test tube along with human retina cells. The cells were exposed to oxygen damage and bilberry was shown to have a profound antioxidant effect – protecting and reversing the damage.

Bilberry removed the stress in eye tissue, which is a strong indicator that it can safeguard the eyes against disorders of aging such as macular degeneration (blurred vision), cataracts (cloudy vision) and glaucoma (eye pressure on the optic nerve).

So let’s get that fruit out for dessert and eat it for refreshing, nourishing snacks!

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, arthritis, aches and pains, stronger hair, better nails, and more energy.

Good Stomach Health: Top Four Most Proven Remedies

Stomach healthHere’s to a healthy and happy stomach for all. Good stomach health sets the direction for the overall health of the body.

Our energy and well-being depend on our stomach, intestinal and bowel health as these are the processing centers for all our foods and beverages.

When our intestinal tissues are healthy and pain-free, the nutrients we eat get absorbed well into the body and nourish every cell and organ and system.

Sometimes the stomach and intestinal areas may become sore, irritated or upset and can benefit from some natural remedies to heal them.  The lower bowel can also become inflamed or irritated and this may be a sign of hemorrhoids.

Here is a summary of some of the most proven remedies:

Okra

Okra is good for soothing sores in the stomach, increasing health in the intestinal tissues, supporting digestion, and cleansing toxins from the small intestine.  It is also proven in studies to relieve ulcers. This vegetable has been valued for its edible green pods and high amounts of vitamin C and folic acid (vitamin B9). Powdered okra supplements are available and eating whole okra is beneficial.

According to a study in the Journal of Food Processing and Technology: “Okra is used to stabilize blood sugar by regulating the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract. It is a good vegetable for those feeling weak, exhausted, and suffering from depression and it is also used in ulcers, lung inflammation and sore throat, as well as irritable bowel.”

Collinsonia

Collinsonia is a wonderful herb that helps to normalize the entire intestinal tract and related organs such as the liver.  It is also effective for vein health, varicose veins and remedying hemorrhoids, according to an article taken from the American Materia Medica. It assists in keeping the bladder and kidneys healthy as well.

Vitamin C

Whole food versions of the famous vitamin C are vital to a healthy intestinal tract.  This includes sources such as acerola cherries and camu camu berries, which are usually found in powdered supplement form. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to anus. Chron’s disease is one form of this and the symptoms can include stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue and malnutrition.

In one study, it was found that 7 out of 10 people with Chron’s had a severe vitamin C deficiency – so vitamin C is highly recommended for any type of intestinal ailment.

Minerals

Mineral deficiency can have a profound effect on our intestinal health.  One study showed that a deficiency of magnesium leads to inflammation in the small intestine, as well as significant changes in nearby and remote organs and an increase of overall stress in the body.  Natural sources of minerals are best such as kelp, alfalfa, and leafy green vegetables like chard and spinach.

In summary, irritations of the stomach, intestines and bowel can be helped and even remedied and healed.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002.

Nutrition Breakthroughs shares easy to understand information from new discoveries and provides Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D   Visit us often to learn about the most effective natural alternatives to drugs.

Antidepressants Can Lead to Hot Flashes, Night Sweats and Insomnia

hot flashes night sweatsHot flashes and night sweats create a sudden feeling of warmth and often a breakout of sweating in the upper half of the body.

These flashes are experienced by up to 80% of women around the time of menopause, and also by men due to a lessening of testosterone in middle age.

Hot flashes are normally brought on by a reduced function in the brain’s temperature regulation, caused by changing hormone levels.  Night sweats that occur while sleeping can cause overheating and frequent awakenings.

Another source of hot flashes are medications. According to WebMD, “Taking certain medications can lead to night sweats. Antidepressant medications are a common type of drug that can lead to night sweats. From 8% to 22% of people taking antidepressant drugs have night sweats. Other psychiatric drugs have also been associated with night sweats.”

The “Sleep in America” poll results from the National Sleep Foundation found that more than half of all Americans (60%) experience a sleep problem every night or almost every night.  Interestingly, a ten-year study to discover which drugs are used to treat insomnia was published in the journal “Sleep”.  The study found that prescriptions for sleeping medications have decreased by 53.7%, but that antidepressant drugs prescribed for insomnia have increased by a surprising 146%. Examples of antidepressants prescribed for insomnia are trazodone, doxepin, trimipramine, and amitriptyline.

Medications may not always have the desired effects.  For example, Drugs.com says the following about an antidepressant drug called Welbutrin — “Nervous system side effects have frequently included headache (27%), insomnia (16% to 33%)….and sleep abnormalities.”  Health.com lists some other possible side effects of antidepressants as sexual dysfunction, weight gain, dry mouth and throat, racing pulse, confusion, disturbed dreams, and an increased risk of suicide.

On the other hand, Nature has provided us with some natural sleep remedies and relaxants that have stood the test of time.  Regarding mineral deficiency as we age and at the time of menopause, the pioneering nutritionist Adelle Davis says, “The amount of calcium in a woman’s blood parallels the activity of the ovaries. During the menopause, the lack of ovarian hormones (estrogen and progesterone) can cause severe calcium deficiency symptoms to occur, including irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, leg cramps, and insomnia. These problems can be easily overcome if the intakes of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are all generously increased and are well absorbed.”

One sleep remedy that’s increasing in popularity is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. This natural sleep aid contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for restless legs syndrome, bone strength, aches and pains and menopause insomnia. The formula also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making the minerals more quickly assimilated than tablets or capsules.  The softgel formulation provides a deeper, longer-lasting sleep and is an effective alternative to medications.

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 flashes, I’m sleeping much better and I’m a lot more comfortable.”

Alex R. of Ramseur of North Carolina says: “Sleep Minerals II has been a blessing for me.  It has given me the opportunity to withdraw from a highly addictive sleep medication over time, and has allowed me to sleep while going through this most difficult ordeal.  What’s great about it is it doesn’t lose its effectiveness, which is something that happens with sleep medications.  I am most thankful for this product.”

In summary, while antidepressant medications and other drugs are being prescribed widely for insomnia, natural remedies for sleep and relaxation should be tried first.  Those with absorbable calcium and magnesium have been proven effective.  And they come without side effects such as hot flashes and night sweats and can even be a good remedy for these.  For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Enzymes: The Secret to Vibrant Health and Energy

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II

Greetings to you,

Health-conscious people have often asked: “What are enzymes and what can they do for my health and energy?”  And also, “What effects do an enzyme deficiency have on my body?”

The magic of enzymes is that they are a delicate lifelike substance found in all living animal and plant cells.  They are energized protein molecules that are essential for digesting food, repairing tissue, and creating virtually all of the chemical reactions in the body. 

Life cannot be sustained without them, and because our bodies produce only so many enzymes during our lifetime, there are less and less of them available as we age (1). This may lead to poor digestion and blocked absorption of the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients we need for good health.

Digestive enzymes are made in the pancreas and released into the intestine to break down food and turn it into energy.  Raw food enzymes are obtained from eating raw foods such as fruits and vegetables. Foods high in natural enzymes are avocados, bananas, mangos and sprouts. 

Cooked and processed foods are depleted of all of their enzymes.  Another type of enzyme is a metabolic or systemic enzyme. These are also made by the pancreas and other glands, but they travel directly through the bloodstream and initiate chemical reactions inside the cells that orchestrate life’s processes in every organ, gland, tissue and cell. 

It is a key part of our nutrition to eat raw foods and to take enzyme supplements when eating cooked or processed foods, in order to not rob the body of the metabolic enzymes it must have to keep the body running. When there aren’t enough digestive enzymes, the body forces its metabolic enzymes into use to digest our food. 

This takes them away from their vital duties of repair, maintenance and infection fighting, all of which need constant attention.  Enzymes from raw food or supplements act to reduce the burden on the body’s natural healing powers, allowing it to perform its natural self-curing function.

Enzymes can either be taken with food or on an empty stomach.  When enzyme supplements are taken on an empty stomach, 45 minutes to one hour before meals, they stimulate the immune system to engulf and remove waste material such as bacteria, cysts, and tumors (2), and they can treat a variety of conditions. 

Many studies have confirmed the successful use of proteolytic (protein digesting) systemic enzymes for treating a wide variety of conditions.  They have benefited arthritis and eased the pain of sports injuries.  They are used to control inflammation and swelling, to bring about faster recovery after surgery, and to maintain good heart health by breaking down fats and cholesterol (3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11).

Proteolytic systemic enzymes include bromelain, papain and pancreatin.  Taken between meals, they can fortify the blood and be stored for later use when needed.

Without enough enzymes, our digestive tract deposits a large quantity of toxic material from undigested food into our blood, which is carried throughout our body.  It accumulates over time and contributes to many chronic health problems and conditions. The body has to use up a lot of its energy in order to digest enzyme-deficient foods.  By using supplemental enzymes, you can divert this energy right back to yourself!
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This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II
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REFERENCES:

1.Enzymes: The Foundation of Life. Neville Press, Inc.1994.

2.Oral Enzymes – New Approach to Cancer Treatment. Munich, Germany: Forum-Medizin, 1996 

3. Pliml W, et al. Effects of ribose on exercise-induced ischaemia in stable coronary artery disease. Lancet 1992;340:507-10.

4. Zuschlag JM. Double-blind clinical study using certain proteolytic enzyme mixtures in karate fighters. Working paper. Mucos Pharma GmbH (Germany). 1988;1-5. Rathgeber WF. The use of proteolytic enzymes (Chymoral) in sporting injuries. S Afr Med J. 1971;45:181-183.

5. Shaw PC. The use of a trypsin-chymotrypsin formulation in fractures of the hand. Br J Clin Pract. 1969;23:25-26.

6. Rahn HD. Efficacy of hydorlytic enzymes in surgery. Paper presented at: 24th FIMS World Congress of Sports Medicine; May 27-June 1, 1990; Amsterdam.

7. Vinzenz K. Treatment of edema with hydrolytic enzymes in oral surgical procedures [translated from German]. Quintessenz. 1991;42:1053-1064.

8. Seltzer AP. Minimizing post-operative edema and ecchymoses by the use of an oral enzyme preparation (bromelain): a controlled study of 53 rhinoplasty cases. Eye Ear Nose Throat Mon. 1962;41:813-817.

9. Blonstein JL. Control of swelling in boxing injuries. Practitioner. 1969;203:206. 26. Zatuchni GI, Colombi DJ. Bromelains therapy for the prevention of episiotomy pain. Obstet Gynecol. 1967;29:275-278.

10. Tassman GC, Zafran JN, Zayon GM. Evaluation of a plant proteolytic enzyme for the control of imflammation and pain. J Dent Med. 1964;19:73-77.

11. Gylling U, Rintala A, Taipale S, et al. The effect of a proteolytic enzyme combinate (bromelain) on the postoperative oedema by oral application. A clinical and experimental study. Acta Chir Scand. 1966;131:193-196.

Banishing Charley Horses and Muscle Cramps Naturally

charley horseDo you ever find yourself suddenly awakened in the middle of the night with a muscle cramp that feels like an uninvited guest in your leg?

These muscle cramps, commonly referred to as “Charley horses,” can strike at the most inconvenient times, leaving you desperately seeking relief.

However, the good news is that there are natural remedies that can help you bid farewell to these painful cramps and welcome restful nights once more.

The Mystery Behind Charley Horses and Muscle Cramps

Charley horses, or muscle cramps, are involuntary muscle contractions that can occur in any muscle in your body. They can be caused by various factors, such as dehydration, overuse of muscles, and, in some cases, an underlying medical condition. However, one of the most common reasons for muscle cramps is an imbalance of electrolytes, particularly calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

The Power of Calcium

Calcium is not just for strong bones; it also plays a crucial role in muscle function. Adequate calcium levels in your body help regulate muscle contractions. When calcium levels dip too low, it can lead to muscle cramps. Research has shown that increasing your calcium intake can help alleviate muscle cramps.

A study published in the “Journal of Clinical Medicine” found that calcium supplementation reduced muscle cramp frequency in pregnant women. Including calcium-rich foods like almonds, leafy greens, cooked broccoli, figs, oranges and organic dairy products in your diet can be a tasty way to keep cramps at bay.

Magnesium: The Mighty Muscle Mineral

Magnesium is another essential mineral that can make a significant difference in preventing muscle cramps. It aids in muscle relaxation by counterbalancing calcium’s stimulating effect. Low magnesium levels can lead to muscle hyperactivity, making cramps more likely to occur. A study in the “Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition” found that magnesium supplementation reduced the frequency and severity of muscle cramps in elderly subjects. To boost your magnesium intake, consider adding foods like nuts, seeds, whole grains, and leafy greens to your diet.

Potassium for Cramp Prevention

Potassium is a key player in maintaining proper muscle function and preventing cramps. Low potassium levels can lead to muscle weakness and cramping. Including potassium-rich foods like bananas, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits in your diet can help maintain optimal potassium levels. A study published in the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition” found that potassium supplementation reduced the incidence of muscle cramps in athletes.

The Sunshine Vitamin and Charley Horses

Vitamin D, often known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is essential for maintaining healthy muscles. Research suggests that vitamin D deficiency may contribute to muscle cramps. A study in the “Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” showed that vitamin D supplementation improved muscle function in individuals with vitamin D deficiency. So, catch some sun and add vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, fortified dairy products, and egg yolks to your diet to keep your muscles happy.

The Role of Vitamin K2

Vitamin K2 plays a vital role in calcium metabolism. It helps direct calcium to our bones and teeth while preventing its buildup in soft tissues, including muscles. A study from the Frontiers in Nutrition Journal has shown that vitamin K2 was effective to reduce the frequency, severity, and duration of muscle cramps and was safe to take.  Food sources include sauerkraut, egg yolk, organ meats like chicken liver, and fermented foods like kefir.

In Conclusion

Charley horses and muscle cramps can be an unwelcome interruption to your daily life, but there are natural remedies that can help you find relief. Proper nutrition, including foods with calcium, magnesium, and potassium, along with vitamin D and vitamin K2, can make a world of difference in preventing and alleviating muscle cramps.

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

Kimberly B. of Troy, Michigan says: “I have been taking Sleep Minerals II for about a month now. I have tried everything out there and this supplement is amazing. I have suffered with insomnia for 2 1/2 years. I have also had restless leg syndrome my entire life and this is the first relief I’ve ever had…gone for a month now.”

Healthy Fats for Good Skin, Hair and Nutrition

healthy fatsEating healthy fats helps us create glowing skin and hair, as well as good nutrition for the organs and hormones.

All hormones are formed with healthy fats, so eating more of these foods can nourish our health in many ways.

Healthy fats can play a vital role in helping us sleep better and achieve greater health as these provide the basic building blocks for cholesterol production — a surprisingly healthy substance in our bodies.  The best fats to eat are nutrient rich foods like eggs, natural butter, salmon, sardines, fish oils, avocados, nuts, seeds and coconut oil.

For example, a healthy heart and long life are associated with eating walnuts.  They have been shown to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease and also extend life spans in general. Walnuts contain the amino acid l-arginine, which offers protective benefits for the heart.

Walnuts can also be a good sleep inducing food.  Eating a handful of walnuts before bedtime may be a good way to calm down sleeplessness and insomnia. Russel Reiter, Ph.D., a professor of cellular biology at the University of Texas says, “Relatively few foods have been examined for their melatonin content. Our studies demonstrate that walnuts contain melatonin and that it is absorbed when it is eaten.”

Avocados are a healthy, creamy, tasty food, whether they sit on top of a sandwich, an omelet or a salad, or become transformed into guacamole. The healthy fats in avocados help balance hormones and this food features over twenty vitamins and minerals.

In summary, eating healthy fats can enhance one’s health in many ways. This information is brought to you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural insomnia remedy Sleep Minerals II.

University Researchers Find Link Between Insomnia and Hot Flashes

A team of researchers at the Stanford University School of Medicine in California recently embarked upon a study to help determine the causes of insomnia among premenopausal and postmenopausal women.

The team conducted phone interviews with 982 women and gathered information about their sleep history, frequency of hot flashes, and overall health. They found that 51% of postmenopausal women suffer with hot flashes and that 79% of premenopausal women have them. Among the women with the most intense hot flashes (based on their severity and frequency), 81% of them experienced sleeplessness and insomnia.

The lead researcher said: “In this paper, we have observed without any doubt and in a significant way that hot flashes are associated with insomnia. This is the first observational study showing the link between insomnia and hot flashes while controlling for other factors that could account for insomnia in women.”

Night sweats and hot flashes can become a form of insomnia in which a woman can wake up sweating and be unable to sleep. Regarding mineral deficiency at the time of menopause, the pioneering nutritionist Adelle Davis says in her book ‘Let’s Get Well’ that: “The amount of calcium in a woman’s blood parallels the activity of the ovaries. During the menopause, the lack of ovarian hormones (estrogen and progesterone) can cause severe calcium deficiency symptoms to occur, including irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, leg cramps, and insomnia. These problems can be easily overcome if the intakes of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are all generously increased and are well absorbed.”

Calcium is directly related to our cycles of sleep. In one study published in the European Neurology Journal, researchers found that calcium levels in the body are higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase. The study concluded that disturbances in sleep, especially the absence of REM deep sleep or disturbed REM sleep, are related to a calcium deficiency. Restoration to the normal course of sleep was achieved following the normalization of the blood calcium level.

Regarding the use of vitamin D as an insomnia remedy, Researchers at the East Texas Medical Center recently discovered that vitamin D helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle.  They found a definite link between vitamin D deficiency and the current epidemic of sleep disorders.  During the research, the authors discovered the presence of high concentrations of vitamin D “receiving sites” or “receptors” in those areas of the brain that are related to the onset and maintenance of sleep.

One natural insomnia remedy gaining in popularity with women is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. Sleep Minerals II contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleeplessness 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. The mixture of oils and minerals makes it more quickly assimilated than tablets or capsules and provides 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.”

The Stanford research study shows a definite link between hot flashes and insomnia and suggests that if a woman can address and remedy her hot flashes, she will also likely improve her insomnia.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II visit this page.

Natural Remedies for Hand Arthritis

hand arthritisGreetings to you,

This article is for anyone who experiences arthritis pain in their hands. 

One great exercise to do is to alternately stretch the fingers out and then make them into a fist.  Done a few times a day, this can do wonders for easing and relieving arthritis pain. 

Some other good tips for managing hand arthritis and reducing pain would be to do some regular gentle physical exercise such as taking walks or swimming, getting a good night’s sleep each night, and taking fish oil supplements, ginger, or MSM to reduce inflammation and soreness.

Ginger for Arthritis

Arthritis causes pain, swelling, and reduced motion in the joints. It can occur in any joint, but usually it affects the hands, knees, hips or spine.

A recent study published in the journal “Arthritis” found that a standardized ginger extract is as effective as the anti-inflammatory drug betamethasone for all types of arthritis, but without the many side effects the drug is known for (fluid accumulation, nausea, adrenal gland suppression, insomnia and depression).

Studies on MSM for Arthritis

Sulfur-containing supplements such as MSM hold great promise for people with joint-cartilage problems. It has been shown in studies to remedy arthritis and provide relief.  Sulfur is particularly concentrated in the joints, nails, skin, hair and connective tissues.

MSM sulfur is a white, water-soluble element found in nature and in foods such as milk, fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood and meat. Food processing methods like heating, washing and freezing all deplete MSM in foods, making regular replenishment beneficial.

In one study of MSM, University of California School of Medicine professor Ronald Lawrence, M.D., followed 16 patients with degenerative arthritis – a form of joint disease. The patients who took MSM daily for six weeks reported an 80 percent reduction in pain. Dr. Lawrence has also conducted studies showing that MSM increases hair growth and brilliance, as well as nail thickness and length.

This health information on hand exercises for arthritis and natural arthritis remedies is brought to you by Nutrition Breakthroughs.

Nutrition Breakthroughs provides the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II and the natural solution for joint relief, pain relief and increased energy which contains pure MSM, Joints and More.

Additional resource: 9 exercises for hand arthritis from the Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/physical-activity/other-activities/9-exercises-to-help-hand-arthritis

Do hand exercises help arthritis?

Hand exercises can ease and relieve arthritis pain.  These movements can also be of assistance with wrist soreness and carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a condition that causes numbness, pain or tingling in the hand or arm due to a nerve in the wrist being compressed.

How can I slow down arthritis in my hands?

Some good tips for managing arthritis and reducing pain would be to do some regular gentle physical exercise such as taking walks or swimming, getting a good night’s sleep each night, and taking fish oil supplements, ginger or MSM to reduce inflammation and soreness.