Tag Archives: vitamin d

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.

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

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

Did you know that …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

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

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

Benefits of Chiropractic Therapy for Good Health

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chiropractic careIn recent times, our society has been oriented to the medical approaches of drugs and surgeries for its health needs.

Currently, there is a shift and evolution toward a more natural health approach.  Remedies are being embraced that effectively enhance the body’s innate ability to rejuvenate and heal.

The benefits of chiropractic care are becoming more widely known and are growing in popularity.  Good nutrition, natural remedies, and health supplements are in greater demand.

Theory of Chiropractic Care: Improving Nervous System Function

The nervous system of the body is made up of the brain, spinal cord and nerves.  These nerves then extend throughout the entire body.  This system sends messages between the brain and other parts of the body, with electrical signals that initiate breathing, moving, talking, and chiropractic caremuch more.

Misalignments in the spine, known as subluxations, can press on the nerves and impede these communications, leading to health issues in the areas and organs served by the nerves.

A study in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine demonstrated that chiropractic adjustments positively impact the nervous system, promoting better overall health and reducing stress. Patients often report improvements in sleep, mood, and well-being.

The Backbone of Wellness:

At the core of chiropractic care is the understanding that the spine plays a pivotal role in general health. Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics highlights the effectiveness of chiropractic adjustments in relieving pain and improving functionality for individuals suffering from chronic back pain. By realigning the bones of the spine, chiropractors can alleviate nerve interference and promote the body’s ability to heal.

Enhancing Joint Function:

Beyond spinal health, chiropractic care extends its benefits to the entire musculoskeletal system (muscles, bones and joints). A study in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that chiropractic treatment significantly improved joint function and reduced inflammation in patients with hip osteoarthritis. This approach fosters mobility and flexibility, enabling individuals to lead more active and fulfilling lives.

Immune System Boost:

Chiropractic care isn’t just about addressing pain; it’s about empowering the body to function optimally. Research suggests that chiropractic adjustments can enhance and improve natural immunity. By removing interference in the nervous system, the body is better equipped to defend against illnesses, promoting resilience and vitality.

chiropractic careSupporting Organs for Optimal Function:

Several organs benefit from chiropractic care. The heart, for instance, may benefit from improved blood circulation resulting from chiropractic adjustments. Research in the Journal of Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine suggests that chiropractic care positively influence cardiovascular health.

Nutritional Support for Chiropractic Wellness:

Nutrition plays an important role in supporting the body’s healing processes and maximizing the benefits of chiropractic care. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil supplements and many types of fish, have been shown to reduce inflammation and support joint health. Additionally, incorporating nutrient-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, raw nuts, avocado, mushrooms and artichokes into one’s diet can further enhance the body’s ability to heal and recover.

Magnesium, an essential mineral, is another ally in the quest for overall health. It plays a crucial role in muscle function and relaxation. A deficiency in magnesium can contribute to muscle tension, which may be alleviated through chiropractic care. Including magnesium-rich foods like almonds, spinach, and bananas in your diet can complement the benefits of chiropractic adjustments.

Vitamin D, known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is vital for bone health and immune function. Research in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and musculoskeletal pain. Adequate sun exposure and incorporating vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish (salmon, sardines), eggs, and mushrooms can contribute to the success of chiropractic care.

Choosing Innate Body Healing for Lower Back Pain:

Lower back pain is a widespread condition in the United States.  People who suffer with this may undergo costly treatments like injections, surgeries, and emergency hospital visits in an attempt to find some relief.  Use of chiropractic care or physical therapy has been found to reduce expensive healthcare visits and lower the costs.

A research study published in the journal “Healthcare” discovered that chiropractic care is a cost-effective alternative when compared with physical therapy.  The study involved adults with at least three weeks of lower back pain over a six-month period.

Choosing Benefits of Chiropractic Therapy Over Surgery:

In a world where pharmaceuticals and surgeries are often considered the default solutions, chiropractic care stands as a truly comparable alternative. A study in the journal “Manipulative Physiological Therapy” demonstrated that chiropractic was as effective as surgery for sciatica.  Sciatica is defined as pain in the back, hip or leg, caused by compression of a spinal nerve.

When two treatment groups were created and chiropractic therapy was compared with spinal disc surgery, significant improvement was seen in both patient groups.  The study concluded: “Sixty percent of patients with sciatica who had failed other medical management, benefited from spinal manipulation to the same degree as if they underwent surgical intervention.”

Conclusion:

Chiropractic care isn’t just another treatment; it’s a celebration of the body’s incredible capacity to heal and thrive. Scientific studies consistently support the positive impact of chiropractic adjustments on various aspects of health, from spinal alignment, to the health of the organs, to immune system function. By embracing chiropractic and incorporating supportive nutrition, individuals can unlock the door to greatly increased 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, and more energy.

Surprising Health Benefits of Body Fat

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benefits of body fatGreetings to you,

There are certainly some surprising benefits of body fat.  Having some body fat helps in maintaining the health of the body.  Read on to learn some key ones.

One example is that having some body fat helps one to absorb and store the vital fat soluble vitamins A, D, E and K.  It also cushions the organs and protects them.

Fat helps the body store energy, helps keep the body warm, and is the raw material for making all of our hormones.  In an article from the journal “Endocrinology – An Integrated Approach” (endocrinology deals with the glands and hormones), the author writes that all hormones are made of fats such as cholesterol.  This includes estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, adrenal gland hormones, vitamin D, and the sleep hormone melatonin.

Eating healthy fats with our meals can play a vital role in helping us sleep better and achieve greater health.  Milk is well-known for its positive effects on inducing sleep, and dairy foods contain beneficial fats (although for some, fermented dairy such as yogurt is easier to digest). Dairy is also high in the sleep nutrients calcium, magnesium and vitamin D.  The best fats to eat are nutrient rich foods like eggs, natural butter and cheese, salmon, sardines, cod liver oil, avocados and coconut oil.

This health news on the benefits of body fat is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.  Sleep Minerals II contains calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and zinc in a softgel, mixed with natural rice bran oil for complete absorption.

A review of Sleep Minerals II on InsomniaReport says: “Nutrition Breakthroughs Sleep Minerals II seems like a decent product. It is made from natural ingredients and gives users a boost of important vitamins. It is also priced well, as it is in the price range of other sleep aid medications, but it can last twice as long depending on how many capsules are taken per night.”

To your good health,

Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II