New Studies Discover Natural Remedies for Chronic Health Problems

health problemsRecent discoveries in the fields of natural remedies and nutrition have uncovered promising breakthroughs in the treatment of chronic health problems such as insomnia, arthritis, and anxiety.

These groundbreaking studies highlight the benefits of specific natural remedies that can improve health outcomes without the possible side effects and addiction of medical drugs.

A study published in the “Journal of Sleep Research” (2023) has revealed that calcium, magnesium, and zinc significantly improve sleep quality in individuals suffering from insomnia. These essential minerals are found in various natural foods, including leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and fruits like cherries and bananas.

Participants in the study who supplemented their diet with magnesium and zinc reported better sleep quality, falling asleep faster, and waking up less frequently throughout the night. Sleep specialists recommend magnesium as a key element for enhancing melatonin, a hormone made in the brain that is essential for good sleep..

The benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, widely known for their anti-inflammatory properties, have been further reconfirmed by a “Nutrition Research Reviews” (2023) publication. The study demonstrated that omega-3-rich foods like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can significantly reduce joint pain and stiffness in individuals with arthritis.

Another recent study, which focused on the mineral MSM, was published in the journal “Osteoarthritis Cartilage.” The results showed that compared to placebo, MSM produced significant decreases in knee pain and significant improvement in physical function.  The use of MSM also resulted in better performance of the activities of daily living, as well as reduction in stress and better cardiovascular health.

With arthritis affecting millions of people globally, natural remedies offer an effective alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which are often associated with harmful side effects such as gastrointestinal issues and cardiovascular risks.  Joints and More from Nutrition Breakthroughs is a popular example of a supplement containing pure MSM.

***** 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.”

In the realm of herbal remedies, a recent discovery is the potential of the herb ashwagandha to alleviate stress and anxiety and improve mood stability. Published in “Phytotherapy Research” (2024), the study showed that participants who took ashwagandha supplements over 8 weeks had a notable reduction in cortisol levels, a hormone made in the adrenal glands that is responsible for stress.

Insomnia is a widespread issue, with 30% of the people in the U.S. having sleeping problems (per the National Council on Aging). With the recent discovery that calcium, magnesium, and zinc can significantly improve sleep quality and quantity, these minerals are becoming more popular as ingredients in natural sleep aids.  One example is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs, widely known as the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid.

***** Doctor P. P. of Houston, Texas says: “I had developed sleeping problems and took two different sleeping medications over the course of several weeks. When I discontinued them the insomnia came back even worse. I literally got about 20 hours of sleep in 6 weeks time. Sleep Minerals II was just what I needed. I’ve been taking it for a couple weeks and getting many hours of sleep a night. As a doctor I would definitely avoid prescribing sleeping drugs — I would recommend Sleep Minerals II.”

As the demand for natural remedies continues to rise, these new discoveries offer hope for individuals who seek alternative solutions for managing chronic health problems.

For more info, visit the Sleep Minerals II page and the Joints and More page.

Snoring Remedies to Stop Snoring: Nutrition and Lifestyle Solutions

snoring remediesIf snoring is keeping you or your partner awake at night, there may be some good news for you.

Studies have found several natural snoring remedies and lifestyle improvements that can significantly reduce snoring and lead to a more restful night’s sleep.

Here’s a look at some proven methods, supported by science, to help reduce or eliminate snoring.

Minerals & Vitamins for Snoring Relief

Certain nutrients can help open airways and improve breathing during sleep. Magnesium, for instance, has muscle-relaxing properties that may prevent the airway muscles from constricting during sleep (Smith, 2012).   A study in the “Journal of Research in Medical Sciences” showed that magnesium supplements improved sleep quality and reduced nighttime disturbances (Abbasi, 2012).

Zinc is another key mineral that is linked to stronger immune health and reduced inflammation.  It is a mineral famous for remedying sinus congestion or allergies, which in turn, which can lessen snoring (from the journal “Nutrients” 2019). Increasing magnesium and zinc intake through diet or supplements can be a natural step toward quieter nights.

Optimize Your Sleeping Position

A person’s sleep position can play a big role in reducing snoring. The “side-sleeping position” is often recommended for reducing snoring because it prevents the tongue from collapsing into the back of the throat, which can obstruct airways. Research published in the “Sleep & Breathing Journal” found that participants who slept on their side experienced significantly less snoring compared to those who slept on their backs (Cartwright, 2011). Try using a full-length body pillow to help maintain the side-sleeping position throughout the night.

Exercise and Weight Loss for Snoring Reduction

Regular physical activity and weight management can greatly reduce snoring. Excess weight, especially around the neck, can narrow the airways and increase the likelihood of snoring. Studies in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine confirm that weight loss helps reduce airway obstructions and improves breathing during sleep (Peppard, 2000).  Even mild or moderate exercise can strengthen the muscles around the airway and reduce the likelihood of snoring.

Stress Reduction and Snoring

Stress is another factor that can contribute to snoring. High stress levels can lead to tense muscles and shallow breathing, which can worsen a snoring problem. Snoring remedies and techniques such as nasal breathing and singing are helpful. Blowing up a balloon and other deep breathing exercises can strengthen the airways. Taking walks and doing gentle stretching can calm the nervous system, reduce tension, and promote a deeper, more restful sleep (“Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine”, 2014).

By combining these natural snoring remedies and approaches, its sure to have a positive effect on snoring. Improve sleep positions, manage your stress levels, incorporate key minerals, maintain a healthy weight, and take some walks. You will certainly see some improvement and success.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of Sleep Minerals II This is the original mineral-based sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D. The company also makes Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint support, less aches and soreness, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.

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.”

Discover the Best Fruits for Sleep: Rest Well and Long

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

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.

Fun Nutrition Facts You’d Never Guess – Issue #4

nutrition factsWelcome to another edition of “Friday Fun Nutrition Facts!” Get ready to be entertained and inspired by some fascinating tidbits about the food we eat. Let’s dive in …

  1. Peppers Can Help with Pain Relief

Capsaicin is a plant chemical found in the fruit of chili peppers that gives them their burning sensation and sense of heat. Capsaicin is known for its pain-relieving properties. It works by desensitizing nerve receptors and is often used in topical creams to alleviate pain from arthritis and other conditions.  Spicy but soothing!

Reference: Anand, P., & Bley, K. (2011). Topical capsaicin for pain management: Therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action of the new capsaicin 8% patch. British Journal of Anaesthesia, 107(4), 490-502.

  1. Cranberries Can Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins – plant chemicals that give the fruit or flowers of plants their red, blue, or purple colors.  This plant substance can prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. This makes cranberries effective in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and they’re also helpful for gum health by preventing oral bacterial from binding together. Enjoy cranberry juice or dried unsweetened cranberries for a tasty health boost.

Reference: Jepson, R. G., Williams, G., & Craig, J. C. (2012). Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (10), CD001321.

  1. Kiwi Fruit Can Improve Sleep Quality

Eating two kiwis an hour before bedtime can improve sleep quality per recent studies. Kiwis are rich in serotonin and antioxidants (substances that keep cells healthy), both of which can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Sweet dreams are made of kiwis.

Reference: Lin, H. H., Tsai, P. S., & Fang, S. C. (2011). Effect of kiwifruit consumption on sleep quality in adults with sleep problems. Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 20(2), 169-174.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition fascinating? From pain-relieving peppers to sleep-enhancing kiwis, these fun nutrition facts highlight the amazing world of food. Each week, we’ll bring you more surprising and inspiring nutritional facts to help you on your journey to healthier eating. Stay tuned!

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.

New Vibrant Labels for Sleep Minerals II, Joints and More

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.

Minerals for Good Sleep Quality: Studies Show Zinc Effective

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.

Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition – Issue #2

fun facts on nutritionWelcome back to another edition of our “Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition!” Get ready to be intrigued by some fascinating and little-known facts about food. Here’s to your enjoyment of a fun and nutritious Friday.

  1. Potatoes Were the First Food Grown in Space

In 1995, NASA and the University of Wisconsin collaborated to grow potatoes in space aboard the space shuttle Columbia. This experiment was part of a larger effort to develop sustainable food sources for long-term space missions. Talk about out-of-this-world nutrition.

Reference: Wheeler, R. M. (2010). Plants for human life support in space: From Myers to Mars. Gravitational and Space Biology Bulletin, 23(2), 25-35.

2. Bell Peppers Have More Vitamin C Than Oranges

While oranges are famous for their vitamin C content, bell peppers actually contain even more. A single cup of chopped red bell pepper provides nearly three times the vitamin C of an orange. Plus, they’re low in calories and rich in health-giving plant chemicals known as antioxidants, making them a perfect snack.

Reference: Howard, L. R., et al. (2000). Antioxidant activity and fruit quality changes in bell pepper. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 48(4), 1713-1720.

3. Avocados Are Actually Berries and Have Many Benefits

Surprise. Avocados are technically berries. They contain one large seed, fitting the botanical definition of a berry. Avocados are also nutritional powerhouses, full of healthy fats, fiber, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and K.

In addition, there are many studies showing the benefits of avocado for heart health, as well as for weight management and anti-aging effects.

Reference: Dreher, M. L., & Davenport, A. J. (2013). Hass avocado composition and potential health effects. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 53(7), 738-750.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition interesting? These fun facts on nutrition highlight the amazing world of food. Each Friday, we’ll bring you inspiring nutritional facts for your excellent health.

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.

Top Five Healthy Food Choices

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

Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition – Issue #1

fun facts on nutritionGreetings to you,

Welcome to the first edition of our “Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition” series. Get ready to be intrigued and inspired by some fascinating and little-known tidbits about the food we eat.

  1. Carrots Were Originally Purple

Here’s a fun one: the original color of carrots was purple, not orange. Orange carrots were developed by Dutch farmers in the 17th century through selective breeding to honor the House of Orange (the royal family of the Netherlands). Purple carrots are still a popular option and are rich in plant chemicals that are healthy for the heart and act to delay cellular aging.

Reference: Simon, P. W. (2000). Domestication, Historical Development, and Modern Breeding of Carrot. Plant Breeding Reviews, 19, 157-190.

  1. Honey Never Spoils

Archaeologists have found pots of honey in ancient Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old and still perfectly edible! Honey’s low water content and acidic pH create an inhospitable environment for bacteria, making it one of the few foods that can last indefinitely.

Reference: Snowdon, J. A., & Cliver, D. O. (1996). Microorganisms in honey. International Journal of Food Microbiology, 31(1-3), 1-26.

  1. Tomatoes Were Once Considered Poisonous

Believe it or not, during the 18th century, Europeans considered tomatoes to be poisonous. This was due to their similarity to the deadly belladonna nightshade herbal plant. It wasn’t until the late 1700s that tomatoes became a staple in the European diet. Today, they’re celebrated for their high vitamin C and lycopene content, a red-colored plant chemical which is good for the heart and can also help to slim the waistline.

References: 1. Rick, C. M. (1980). Tomato. Economic Botany, 34(2), 107-129.
2. A study on tomato juice from the China Medical University in Taiwan.

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Join us next week for some more “Friday Fun Facts on Nutrition.”  Here’s to your good health and well-being.

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.