Ask any expert, "What are the best ways to fight cancer?", and you'll likely be told advice such as to eat a healthy diet, exercise and avoid smoking. You're probably aware of the protective effects that certain cancer-fighting foods, such leafy greens and berries for examples, can have on your immune system and overall health.…
In mostly healthy adults, vitamin K deficiency is somewhat rare. But while it’s not known to be one of the most common deficiencies, it can be very serious, causing issues like bone loss, excessive bleeding and more. So why does vitamin K deficiency predispose an individual to a coagulation disorder? Not only is vitamin K…
All of the vitamins and minerals we eat, plus all of the hormones our bodies produce, need enzymes in order to work properly. Additionally, enzymes, such as proteolytic enzymes, regulate metabolic functions and assist in maintaining our stamina and energy levels. Proteolytic enzymes are the type that specifically aid in the digestion process. They help…
There's been a lot of buzz about fermented foods like kombucha, kimchi and kefir lately. But have you heard of koji? Once considered exclusive to Japanese cuisine, more and more chefs around the globe are starting to experiment with koji, a type of fungus that can totally transform the taste and texture of many dishes.…
Surveys show that the consumption of sugary drinks has increased in the last several decades on a global scale, up approximately 40 percent from 1990 to 2016. When health authorities warn against consuming "sugary drinks," they are usually referring to those made with added sugar, such as soda, juices and sweetened teas or energy drinks. However,…
Yogurt is a commonly consumed dairy product that is enjoyed around the globe for both its creamy flavor and stellar nutrient profile. Adding probiotic strains to the mix to the mix is a quick and convenient way to amp up the health benefits of this tasty ingredient even further, and studies show that probiotic yogurt…
Addison’s disease, also called primary or chronic adrenal insufficiency or hypocortisolism, is one type of endocrine disorder that affects about one in 100,000 people. Addison’s disease symptoms are usually prominent and include weight loss, muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure and digestive issues. It’s believed that Addison’s disease is usually autoimmune in nature and a…
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States, a Clostridium difficile infection (also commonly known as C. diff) is currently one of the leading drug-resistant threats to our population. A 2015 CDC study reveals that C. difficile was behind nearly 500,000 infections among patients in the United States in just one year. Can C. diff…
Glutamate is the most abundant amino acid available in the human diet and also the most concentrated amino acid in the brain. It's similar to the other 19 amino acids because it's used to make proteins, facilitate metabolic functions and for energy production. But what makes the glutamate amino acid unique is that it's considered…
Buttermilk is a fermented dairy product that is equal parts tangy, tart, versatile and nutritious. In addition to supplying a good amount of protein, calcium and phosphorus in every serving, some types are also rich in probiotics and low in lactose. Plus, it has also been shown to boost heart health, strengthen the bones and…