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.

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

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

Did you know that …

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand

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

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

Minerals for Good Sleep Quality: Studies Show Zinc Effective

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.

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

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

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

Chamomile tea

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

Sour Cherry Juice for Sleep

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

Warm milk

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

Almond Milk

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

Banana Smoothie

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

Lemon Balm Tea

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

Golden Milk

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

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

Oat Straw Tea

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

Passionflower Tea

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

Coconut Water

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

Sip, Relax and Sleep

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

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

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

References

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

Google Searches Triple on Magnesium for Sleep vs. Melatonin

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

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

Understanding Melatonin and Magnesium for Sleep

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

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

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

Side Effects and Safety

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

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

Effectiveness and Safety

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

Nutrition Breakthroughs

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

Proven Remedies for a Stronger Immune System

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

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

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

Calcium: Beyond Bone Health

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

Magnesium: The Silent Immune Modulator

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

Vitamin D: The Immune System’s Best Friend

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

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

Zinc: The Gatekeeper of Immune Function

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

A Combined Approach to Immune Health

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

Conclusion

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

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