Tag Archives: sleep minerals ii

Healthy Carbs for Better Sleep: The Latest Research

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better sleepBetter sleep is something that millions of people with insomnia are looking for.

Per the American Academy of Sleep Medicine survey results, about 1 in 8 people, or 12% of Americans said they have been diagnosed with chronic insomnia.

What if one of the the keys to restful slumber could be related to what you put on your plate? Recent studies reveal that certain healthy carbohydrates can work wonders for improving sleep quality, helping you fall asleep faster and wake up less often. Here’s a breakdown of the top sleep-friendly carbs and how they benefit your body.

Sweet Potatoes: A Sleep Superfood

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with sleep-promoting nutrients. High in potassium and magnesium, they help relax your muscles and reduce nighttime cramping.  A 2022 study in the *Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine* highlighted that potassium-rich diets can reduce nighttime disruptions, making sweet potatoes an excellent choice for dinner.

Oats: The Comfort Carb

A bowl of oatmeal isn’t just a comforting snack; it’s a scientifically proven sleep booster. Oats are high in melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep cycles, and they’re also a great source of calcium, which helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to produce melatonin. Plus, oats contain slow-digesting fiber that keeps blood sugar stable, preventing nighttime awakenings. According to a study in *Nutrients*, calcium is a vital nutrient for improving deep sleep.

Bananas: Nature’s Nightcap

Bananas are a natural sleep aid, loaded with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C, which supports healthy nerves and reduces stress. They also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes relaxation. Regarding the magnesium contained in bananas, an analysis of several different studies explored the impact of magnesium supplementation on sleep quality. The findings revealed that magnesium not only improves overall sleep quality but also enhances sleep duration.

Brown Rice: For Slow and Steady Rest

Brown rice is a fantastic option for those who wake up frequently during the night.  This whole grain provides steady energy and contains GABA, a natural brain chemical known for its calming effects on the nervous system. The Healthline website shared a study showing improved sleep from GABA supplementation. Brown rice is also a good source of the mineral manganese, which promotes strong, dense bones when combined with calcium and vitamin D.

According to the National Council on Aging, brown rice contains many of the B vitamins including B1, B3, B6, and B9. Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is a key player in helping the body produce serotonin and melatonin for a good night’s sleep

Quinoa: Iron for Strong Sleep

Quinoa is a complete protein and a top choice for vegetarians seeking sleep-friendly carbs. In addition to magnesium, quinoa is rich in iron, which supports healthy oxygen flow to the brain and reduces fatigue.  A 2023 study in *Advances in Nutrition* found that iron-rich diets can significantly reduce a form of insomnia known as restless leg syndrome.

A Recipe for Restful Nights

Incorporating these foods into your daily meals can pave the way for a relaxing night’s sleep. Whether it’s a sweet potato mash for dinner, a banana-oat smoothie before bed, or a quinoa salad for lunch, these healthy carbs will help you fall asleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.

Supplements for Better Sleep and Good Health

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

Fun Nutrition News and Facts You’d Never Guess – Issue 5

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nutrition newsGreetings to you,

Welcome to the fifth issue of “Fun Nutrition News and Facts You’d Never Guess!”  Get ready to be intrigued and inspired by some fascinating and little-known tidbits about the food we eat.  Did you know that ….

Oats Can Lower Cholesterol

Oats contain a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which has been proven to  lower cholesterol, control blood-sugar levels, and provide lasting energy throughout the day.  They are a good source of vitamins B and E, as well as the minerals magnesium, zinc and manganese. Eating a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast (rolled oats or steel-cut are best) can help keep your heart healthy.

Reference: Whitehead, A., et al. (2014). Cholesterol-lowering effects of oat β-glucan: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 100(6), 1413-1421.

Pineapples Take Two Years to Grow and are Worth It

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to pineapples. These tropical fruits take up to two years to reach maturity. Once ready, pineapples are a fantastic source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that helps with good digestion and reduced inflammation.

The vitamin C in pineapple supports the immune system and helps build collagen in the body.  Collagen is the main structural protein in the body, providing strength to skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues.

Reference: Paull, R. E., & Chen, N. J. (2003). Postharvest physiology, handling and storage of pineapple. Tropical Agriculture, 80(2), 82-97.

Pumpkin Seeds Are a Natural Mood Booster

Pumpkin seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin, the “feel-good” natural brain chemical. Consuming pumpkin seeds can help improve your mood and promote a sense of well-being. These seeds also improve heart health and bladder health and are high in magnesium, vitamin e, zinc and selenium.

Reference: Pumpkin seeds may boost brain health in 4 crucial ways by Sarah Sloat https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/pumpkin-seeds Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

Isn’t nutrition fascinating?  Each week, Nutrition Breakthroughs will bring you inspiring and surprising 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.

Combat Inflammation with the Top 5 Natural Anti-Inflammatory Remedies

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inflammationInflammation is the body’s natural defense against infection or injury and it can cause swelling, soreness or pain.

When it lingers as a slow-burning fire in the background, it can wreak havoc, leading to joint pain, heart disease, intestinal upset or mental fog.

Chronic inflammation, a persistent internal alarm, often stems from stress, diet, or environmental factors and can accelerate aging and increase susceptibility to chronic illnesses. Fortunately, recent studies have revealed powerful natural remedies to help counteract this “silent fire” and restore health.

  1. Tart Cherry Extract: Delicious Relief for Muscles and Joints
    A 2024 study in The Journal of Functional Foods highlights tart cherry extract as an inflammation-fighting powerhouse. Packed with red-colored plant chemicals, tart cherries help reduce post-exercise soreness and chronic joint pain by blocking pain-inducing enzymes. A daily glass of tart cherry juice or a supplement can ease workout recovery and reduce inflammation from arthritis, making it a must-have for active and aging individuals alike.

    Drinking tart cherry juice can also result in significant improvements in sleep, according to a study published in the European Journal of Nutrition.  The juice is high in the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. The benefits of cherry juice included longer sleep times, less daytime napping, and increased overall sleep efficiency (the ratio of the time spent in bed. to the time spent actually sleeping).

    In the placebo-controlled study, 20 volunteers consumed either tart cherry juice concentrate or a non-cherry juice drink for 7 days.

    The researchers concluded: “These data suggest that consumption of a tart cherry juice concentrate provides an increase in melatonin that is beneficial in improving sleep duration and quality in … men and women and might be of benefit in managing disturbed sleep.”

  2. Omega-3s from Algal Oil: Plant-Based Brain and Heart Health
    The Nutrients journal emphasized omega-3s, specifically from algal oil, as a plant-based solution for inflammation. Sourced from marine algae, algal oil is ideal for vegans or those avoiding fish. Omega-3s lower inflammatory markers in the brain and heart, supporting cognitive function and cardiovascular health. Algal oil supplements or adding foods like fortified algae snacks, can provide an inflammation-busting boost.
  3. Ginger Root: A Natural Solution for Chronic Inflammation
    Ginger’s compounds were shown in Pharmacological Research to inhibit inflammatory pathways, offering relief for conditions from arthritis to digestive inflammation. Ginger root tea, fresh ginger in stir-fries, or ginger supplements are fantastic ways to add this inflammation-fighting root to your diet. This root’s spicy kick adds flavor and a powerful boost for anyone battling chronic inflammation.
  4. Flaxseed Oil for Skin and Gut Health
    The Journal of Inflammation Research highlighted flaxseed oil, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as a potent anti-inflammatory for skin and digestive health. Flaxseed oil combats inflammation from the inside out, benefiting skin conditions like eczema and improving gut balance. A spoonful of flaxseed oil added to smoothies, salads, or cereals can provide these calming effects and support heart health as a bonus.
  5. Bromelain: A Digestive Enzyme with Anti-Inflammatory Effects
    According to new research in Nutrients, bromelain — a natural enzyme found in pineapples — offers a significant reduction in inflammation, particularly following physical injury or surgery. Bromelain’s enzymes break down inflammatory proteins, improving recovery and reducing swelling. Try fresh pineapple or bromelain supplements to speed recovery and support muscle health.

These breakthroughs demonstrate nature’s power in combating inflammation and improving health and sleep. Utilizing these nutrients through supplements or dietary changes can help you achieve long-term wellness, mobility, and vitality.

This natural health news is provided 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.

***** Tammy B. of Spotsylvania, Virginia says: “I have been using the Sleep Minerals and I do notice a difference. Specifically, my legs don’t seem to be restless anymore and my hip and knee joints don’t ache. I haven’t done anything else differently so I have to give all the credit to this product. I didn’t take the Sleep Minerals one night and the next few nights were extremely miserable for me as I worked to get back on schedule. I usually sleep well and the best part is…. I’m waking up refreshed.”

Indoor Air Quality: Ways to Improve it for Good Health

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air quality

In today’s fast-paced world, indoor air quality and the quality of the outdoor air, play a key role in our overall health.

The State of Tennessee Health Department says: “Breathing clean air can lessen the possibility of disease from stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer, as well as chronic and acute respiratory illnesses such as asthma.”

Studies have shown that breathing clean, healthy air can significantly boost mental clarity, improve sleep quality, and strengthen the immune system.

Whether you are inside your home or taking a break in nature, making mindful choices regarding air quality can make a dramatic impact on your well-being.

Indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air, and exposure to harmful contaminants, allergens, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can compromise respiratory health. VOCs are found in paint, building materials, solvents, carpets, chemicals and more.

Air purifiers are one solution that can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust, pollen, and mold spores, providing immediate relief for allergy sufferers (American Lung Association, 2021).

Installing high-quality air conditioning systems with HEPA filters can also help regulate temperature and humidity, reducing the risk of mold growth and ensuring that the air inside your home remains clean and fresh.

Sleeping in clean air is essential for restoring the body. Research shows that people who sleep in environments with cleaner air experience fewer disturbances and wake up more refreshed (Environmental Health Perspectives, 2020).

Keeping bedroom windows open for a short period each day or using air purifiers while sleeping helps reduce carbon dioxide levels, allowing the body to oxygenate more efficiently.

Outdoor activities also play a critical role in promoting lung health and reducing stress. Spending time outside in natural sunlight provides the body with vitamin D, which has been linked to improved immune function and mood regulation (The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2019).

Grounding, or walking barefoot on the grass, has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and balance the body’s natural rhythms by reconnecting with the earth’s electrons (Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2012).

According to the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “The possibility exists that magnesium deficiency contributes to pulmonary (lung) complications. During the past few years, there has been an increase in calcium consumption in the US population but little change in magnesium intake, which has caused an imbalance in the calcium: magnesium ratio.”

By combining good indoor air quality practices with time spent in nature and adequate intake of magnesium, you can promote a holistic approach to health and well-being. Taking steps to improve the air you breathe will help reduce respiratory issues, improve mental clarity, and support a strong immune system.

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.

Better Muscle Mass for Adults: Studies Show Simple Steps

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muscle mass
New research has uncovered simple, effective ways for adults to increase muscle mass, build a stronger body, and improve longevity through mild exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle improvements.

These discoveries are paving the way for a healthier, more vibrant life and offer hope for maintaining strength and endurance well into the adult years.

Mild Exercise for Stronger Muscles and Endurance

Contrary to popular belief, building muscle doesn’t require intense workouts. A recent study found that mild resistance exercises, such as using light dumbbell weights, or body-weight exercises like squatting, climbing stairs or jumping jacks, can significantly improve muscle mass and strength in adults, particularly those over 50. These exercises work by gradually increasing muscle fiber size and strength, which helps improve balance, mobility, and overall endurance.

Even simple daily activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing, can contribute to muscle preservation and better cardiovascular health. A study published in *Mayo Clinic Proceedings* suggests that just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week can reduce the risk of chronic disease by 50%, helping individuals live longer, healthier lives.

Nutrition: Fueling Muscle Growth and Longevity

Nutrition plays a vital role in supporting muscle health. Protein-rich foods such as eggs, meats, fish, beans, and dairy products help repair and grow muscle tissue. A study from the *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition* showed that adults who consumed adequate protein daily experienced greater muscle growth and retention, even with light exercise.

In addition to protein, omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, fish oil, walnuts, flaxseeds, and other nuts and seeds, have anti-inflammatory properties that support joint health and reduce muscle soreness after exercise.

Magnesium is essential for muscle contraction and the forming of proteins in the body. It is a mineral that can improve exercise performance, especially for people who are deficient in magnesium.  Deficiency can come from alcohol use, diabetes, taking certain medications, and it is also common in older adults who don’t digest nutrients as well. Magnesium is also widely known to be an effective natural sleep aid.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits

Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes adequate sleep, stress management, and hydration, is just as important as exercise and nutrition for good muscles and good health.

According to research published in *Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience*, adults who sleep 7 to 9 hours a night experience better muscle recovery and mental clarity. Another study from China found that good sleep quality is associated with greater muscle strength, while short sleep duration may be a risk factor for decreased muscle.

Proper hydration, including good amounts of pure, filtered water, is recommended by *The Journal of the American College of Nutrition*.  Healthy liquids support muscle contractions and nutrient transport throughout the body, further enhancing performance and strength.

Conclusion

Regular exercise, a nutrient-rich diet, good sleep, and healthy habits can all work together to build a stronger, more resilient body and an overall sense of strength and well-being.

This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.

Julianne H. of Canada says: “I continue to tell my friends about how Sleep Minerals II has changed my life.  I am fully retired now but still remember driving to work and wondering if I would make it there due to sleep deprivation.  And the debilitating leg cramps that used to occur every night have now become history.  My legs were sore even into the next day.  It’s great to be sleeping so much better, no more sore legs, and my calcium levels are being kept constant.”

New Studies Discover Natural Remedies for Chronic Health Problems

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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

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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

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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.

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

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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.