But research shows this mineral plays a surprisingly important role in type 2 diabetes — and it’s one that’s often overlooked.

Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those critical to how insulin works. It helps regulate glucose uptake into cells, influences insulin sensitivity, and supports vascular health.

Yet studies show that people with type 2 diabetes often have lower magnesium levels — both inside their cells and in circulation — especially when blood sugar control is poor.

Peak D3^™

When you step out into the sunlight, your body begins the process of making vitamin D. But getting the ideal amount can be difficult because some of us can’t effectively absorb it. That’s just one of many reasons the vitamin D deficiency is an epidemic… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Why magnesium matters in diabetes

When magnesium levels drop, insulin can’t do its job as effectively. That means cells don’t take in glucose efficiently, worsening insulin resistance and raising blood sugar levels.

This cycle can create further magnesium losses, particularly through the kidneys, leading to an ongoing deficit.

Over time, low levels have been linked not only to worsening diabetes but also to complications like high blood pressure, kidney dysfunction, arrhythmias, and even cognitive decline.

The two-way connection—and what to do about it

So, does low magnesium cause diabetes, or does diabetes cause low magnesium? The answer is both.

A diet too low in magnesium can impair insulin action, increasing the risk of diabetes, while diabetes itself promotes magnesium loss. This two-way relationship means that people with diabetes are especially vulnerable to deficiency, and people who are deficient are at higher risk of developing diabetes.

Some research suggests magnesium supplements can improve fasting glucose, insulin sensitivity, and blood vessel function, but results aren’t consistent.

That’s likely because not everyone with diabetes is magnesium-deficient to begin with, so supplement studies may dilute the true effect.

The American Diabetes Association does not currently recommend routine supplementation for blood sugar control. More research is needed before magnesium supplements can be broadly prescribed as a diabetes therapy.

What we do know is that magnesium-rich diets consistently lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

People who consume more magnesium-rich foods — nuts, seeds, legumes, leafy greens, and whole grains — tend to have better insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation, and a reduced risk of progressing from prediabetes to diabetes.

These foods also deliver other protective nutrients, like fiber, antioxidants, and plant sterols, that work together to support metabolic and cardiovascular health.

Peak PS^™

Support Stong Cognition with One of the Most Tested Nutrients for Brain Health and Memory!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Food first, supplements if needed

It’s important to note that magnesium from food is safe and doesn’t carry the risks associated with high-dose supplements.

Too much supplemental magnesium — especially in forms like magnesium oxide, carbonate, or chloride — can cause diarrhea, nausea, or abdominal cramps.

Extremely high doses can even lead to toxicity, with dangerous effects on heart rhythm and blood pressure. Supplements can also interact with common medications, including antibiotics, diuretics, and some acid reflux drugs.

That’s why the best approach is food first. Spinach, pumpkin seeds, black beans, almonds, edamame, and whole grains are all excellent sources.

If a supplement is considered, it should only be done under medical supervision, especially for people with kidney disease or those taking multiple medications.

The bottom line

Magnesium isn’t a cure for diabetes, but it is a nutrient that plays a critical role in how insulin works and how blood sugar is managed.

Ensuring your diet includes magnesium-rich foods is a safe, natural, and impactful way to support glucose control and protect against complications. Supplements may help in some cases, but food remains the most reliable and safest source.

At Step One Foods, many of our products naturally deliver magnesium along with other nutrients that support cholesterol, blood sugar, and vascular health. That’s because they’re made with ingredients naturally rich in magnesium — like oats, nuts and seeds, legumes, dried fruit, and even dark chocolate. By eating real food in the right combinations, you can take meaningful steps toward better outcomes.

The post Magnesium’s overlooked link to type 2 diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Maybe it’s a car repair you keep putting off… or the health problems of aging parents weighing heavily on your mind.

Maybe you’re just stressed because you feel like you’re being pulled in too many directions.

Or, maybe, you’re just not drinking enough…

Peak Vitality^™

Your adrenal glands support essential functions from metabolism to stress response. But when they become fatigued, problems with sleep quality, unwanted weight gain, moodiness, energy levels and more can take your vitality for a dive. Nutrients called “adaptogens” help restore balance and improve… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Under-hydration over-amplifies your stress hormone

Even when you’re not thirsty enough to notice, being under-hydrated could be silently working against you — by intensifying your stress response and leading to trouble on the health front.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that individuals who drank less than 1.5 liters of fluid – equivalent to seven cups of tea – per day had a cortisol response to stress that was over 50% higher than those who met daily water intake recommendations.

When the body senses it’s dehydrated, whether due to inadequate fluid intake or fluid loss, it triggers the release of the hormone vasopressin, that acts primarily on the kidneys to promote water reabsorption.

The sustained release of vasopressin strains the kidneys, which are working harder than usual to maintain blood volume and electrolyte balance.

But vasopressin also acts on the brain’s stress-response center—the hypothalamus — telling it to make the adrenal glands pump out more and more cortisol.

Professor Neil Walsh, a physiologist in LJMU’s School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, and lead researcher, said, “Cortisol is the body’s primary stress hormone and exaggerated cortisol reactivity to stress is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes and depression.”

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Gives Your Cells the Energy They Need for Optimal Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Easy and effective cortisol-reduction strategies

Being hydrated may help your body manage stress more effectively by preventing the release of excessive cortisol. But what happens if you drink enough and still feel like you’re on the stress struggle bus?

Look at your diet…

According to doctors at the Cleveland Clinic, foods that can slow the production of cortisol include:

• Magnesium-rich foods like bananas, avocados and dark chocolate
• Omega-3 foods, including salmon, anchovies and chia seeds
• Foods rich in probiotics for gut health, such as Greek yogurt, kombucha and sauerkraut

At the same time, avoid these foods known to increase cortisol release:

• Caffeinated drinks
• Alcohol
• High in sugar snacks
• Refined carbohydrates
• Unhealthy fats

For extra support, consider adaptogen herbs. They get their name because of their exceptional ability to help the body manage stress and restore balance.

They can also relieve adrenal fatigue. Your adrenal glands aren’t just home to cortisol. These tiny glands produce several hormones that impact metabolism, sugar levels, immune response, blood pressure, sexual function and more.

Here’s a list to get you started:

• Boswellia
• Holy Basil
• Ashwagandha
• Rhodiola
• L-Theanine

Sources:

How dehydration secretly fuels anxiety and health problems – ScienceDaily

Tips to Reduce Cortisol Levels and Dial Down Stress – Cleveland Clinic

The post The cortisol-link between stress and dehydration appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But there’s another significant reason to manage it, better yet, help it go into remission…

And that’s cancer.

Men with diabetes are 19 percent more likely to develop cancer. For women, the risk is 27 percent. If that weren’t bad enough, research has shown a link between diabetes and metastatic cancer. High concentrations of sugar in the blood encourages cancer cells to spread.

Researchers looking into the diabetes-cancer connection know how you can take both of these dangerous conditions down…

Can losing weight control diabetes AND cancer?

The Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT), a structured weight management program for people with diabetes, produced some amazing results…

Under the supervision of a dietitian, participants replaced their habitual diets with a prescribed diet. Foods not on the prescribed diet were slowly reintroduced.

After two years of this trial, 68 men and 53 women saw their type 2 diabetes go into remission, compared with only six men and five women in the control group.

When Emma Hazelwood of Bristol Medical School in England read these results, a bell went off…

She knew that people with type 2 diabetes also had an increased risk of developing certain cancers — including pancreatic cancer.

Had the trial participants who successfully lost weight and controlled their diabetes also reduced their cancer risk?

Nine cancer-related proteins reduced with weight loss

Previous studies have found that having increased body weight changed the level of certain proteins with a known link to cancer.

So, along with a team of researchers from Bristol Medical School, Hazelwood used data from 261 people with diabetes who were enrolled in the DiRECT trial.

The team analyzed blood samples from before and after weight loss and found that nine cancer-related proteins were reduced, compared with none in the control group, who had received standard diabetes care but not the prescribed diet.

“Results from this study help us gain insight into potential mechanisms linking type 2 diabetes and body fatness with cancer development.

“These findings offer encouraging evidence that the increased cancer risk seen in people with diabetes might be reduced with weight loss interventions. This has important implications for both diabetes treatment and cancer prevention.”

Do-it-yourself weight loss and disease prevention

Of course, not all of us can enroll in a trial that supervises our weight loss.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t proven ways to do it yourself.

The Mediterranean diet is favored among people who are trying to lose weight and eat more healthfully. In fact, one study showed that people lost more weight and stuck to this diet more easily than either the Paleo or intermittent fasting diets.

Then there’s something known as mindful eating. It may sound like a New-age fad, but on the contrary, eating mindfully is a powerful way to control blood sugar.

But if you need a little guidance on your weight loss journey, consider Weight Watchers. The organization has been a leader in the weight loss industry for more than 50 years — and recognizing that weight loss is key for preventing type 2 diabetes, they’ve become a pioneer in helping people stop the disease progression in its tracks.

They’ve also got a reputation for helping people keep the weight off.

Sources:

Weight loss intervention in people with type 2 diabetes influences cancer-associated proteins — Eureka Alert

Impact of weight loss on cancer-related proteins in serum: results from a cluster randomised controlled trial of individuals with type 2 diabetes — eBioMedicine

Direct Clinical Outcomes at 24 Months — Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial

The post The diabetes-cancer connection and how to take both down appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

With its straightforward focus on a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins, the Mediterranean diet helps lower inflammation that can drive diabetes and improves insulin sensitivity, making it a simple and effective choice for diabetes prevention.

Now, scientists have taken it a step further and discovered three simple tweaks, practiced along with the diet, can actually slash the risk of diabetes by a whopping 31%.

But first…

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How the Mediterranean promotes healthy blood sugar

Prediabetes is a stage people experience before they’re diagnosed with Type 2. During prediabetes, blood sugar can begin spiking, and inflammation can creep in.

Here’s why the Mediterranean diet can help:

Nutritional profile

On the Mediterranean diet, you’ll eat plenty of high-fiber veggies, legumes, whole grains, and nuts. Together, these foods work to slow your body’s glucose absorption and reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes.

Additionally, the low-glycemic carbs that are a hallmark of the Mediterranean diet, along with healthy fats from fatty fish, help balance blood sugar levels.

Polyphenols baby!

Traditional Mediterranean diet foods are vibrant in color, indicating their high polyphenol content. These polyphenols deliver antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers to reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation that fuel insulin resistance.

Eating polyphenol-rich foods also populates your gut with bacteria that improve insulin sensitivity.

Some of the spices commonly found in the diet have been shown to decrease fasting glucose, improve A1C and reduce insulin resistance.

Appetite control

Thanks to its healthy fats and high fiber content, the Mediterranean diet is also naturally satisfying.

This means that you feel full for longer and are less likely to reach for high-sugar foods as snacks.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

3 ways to get more from the Mediterranean Diet

Scientists from 23 universities in Spain and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health followed almost 5,000 participants from Europe’s largest nutrition trial ever, the PREDIMED-Plus study, for six years.

The researchers divided participants into an intervention group and a control group. Both groups followed the Mediterranean diet, but the intervention group added three “tweaks” to their routine, including:

1. Reducing their caloric intake by about 600 calories per day
2. Engaging in moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking and strength and balance exercises
3. And receiving professional support for weight loss control.

And it paid off…

Not only did they lower their risk of diabetes by 31%, but they lost an average of 7.28 pounds and reduced their waist circumference by 1.4 inches — compared to just 1.3 pounds and 0.1 inches in the control group.

“We’re facing a global epidemic of diabetes,” said co-author Frank Hu, Fredrick J. Stare Professor of Nutrition and Epidemiology and chair of the Department of Nutrition. “With the highest-level evidence, our study shows that modest, sustained changes in diet and lifestyle could prevent millions of cases of this disease worldwide.”

So if you’re ready to slash your own diabetes risk to the bone, put the Mediterranean diet, plus these three simple tweaks, to work.

Sources:

Mediterranean diet & diabetes: Blood-sugar control backed by science — Mayo Clinic

Scientists found 3 simple tweaks that cut diabetes risk by 31% — ScienceDaily

The post 3 ‘add-ons’ that slash diabetes risk 31% appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The main reason it’s top of mind is that at least one-third of all American adults have it.

If you’re one of them, you face an elevated risk of stroke, kidney disease and dementia, just to name a few dangerous conditions it can lead to.

Recently, researchers have uncovered another neurological condition they believe is strongly associated with MetS — one that steals both your body and your mind.

Here’s more about that discovery, and how you can keep MetS from wrecking your life

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Components of MetS linked to Parkinson’s symptoms

In a large-scale study, an international group of researchers has determined that having metabolic syndrome was tied to a greater risk of Parkinson’s disease.

The study followed 467,200 subjects over a period of almost 15 years. In participants with MetS, there were 5.21 new cases of Parkinson’s per 10,000 person-years; in those without MetS, only 4.87 new cases.

While the researchers acknowledge that some of these people may have had a genetic predisposition toward Parkinson’s, they still identify several potential mechanisms by which MetS may lead to Parkinson’s.

First, the individual components of MetS, including hypertension, high blood triglycerides and high blood sugar, may each contribute to insulin resistance, oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. All of these, in turn, may lead to changes in neuroinflammation, but insulin resistance especially has a long history of harming the brain.

Second, hypertension and high fat in the blood can lead to white matter lesions in the brain, which may further contribute to the development of Parkinson’s symptoms.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

Supports Improved Oxygen Levels… Healthy Circulation… and Balanced Hormones for Better Overall Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How to avoid MetS

It’s clear that MetS is a lot more than just being overweight and having high blood sugar.

But there are clues you can follow even before you measure your waist or take your blood pressure:

• You crave carbs and sweets
• You’re tired and sluggish, no matter how much sleep you get
• You put on weight easily, but have a hard time losing it
• You feel sluggish after eating
• Your blood pressure is rising steadily over time
• Your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol keeps climbing

Anything you can do to keep from developing this syndrome will lower your risk of any number of life-threatening conditions.

So where do you start?

Maintain a healthy weight through your diet and physical activity. You may want to consider a Mediterranean diet or its first cousin, the MIND diet. Both diets have been shown to delay the onset of Parkinson’s and prevent MetS.

Control blood sugar. If you have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, follow your doctor’s recommendations for managing blood sugar levels.

Manage cholesterol. Maintain healthy cholesterol levels by eating a heart-healthy diet and, if needed, taking cholesterol-lowering medications.

Limit alcohol intake: Excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to metabolic syndrome.

Get regular sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Talk to your doctor. If you have a family history of MetS or any of its components, or if you are at high risk, talk to your doctor about preventive measures.

Sources:

Parkinson’s Risk Rises With Metabolic Syndrome  — Medpage Today

Metabolic Syndrome and Incidence of Parkinson Disease — Neurology

The post The surprisingly common syndrome linked to Parkinson’s appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The argument? Seed oils contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which some experts have suggested may contribute to inflammation — a condition considered a root cause of disease.

In fact, some research has shown these oils increase the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and obesity.

But what if everything we’ve been told about seed oils is wrong?

Peak Krill Oil^™

You probably already know how important omega-3s are to support heart and brain health. But there are five reasons you may be getting yours from a less than adequate source, starting with a powerful antioxidant that delivers DHA into your brain cells… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Linoleic acid and cardiometabolic health

Linoleic acid is the primary omega-6 fatty acid consumed from vegetable oils, particularly seed oils.

“There has been increasing attention on seed oils, with some claiming these oils promote inflammation and raise cardiometabolic risk,” says Dr. Kevin C. Maki, a professor at the Indiana University School of Public Health-Bloomington and chief scientist at Midwest Biomedical Research.

Maki and other investigators analyzed data from almost 1,900 people in an observational cohort study. Their findings were surprising:

• Higher levels of linoleic acid in the blood were consistently associated with lower levels of biomarkers for risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
• Specifically, participants with higher levels of linoleic acid demonstrated lower levels of glucose and insulin as well as HOMA-IR, a biomarker of insulin resistance.
• They also had reduced levels of inflammation biomarkers, including C-reactive protein, glycoprotein acetyls and serum amyloid A.

These results are consistent with those from observational studies that have found a link between higher intake of linoleic acid and lower risk for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

The findings of this latest study are believed to be even stronger because of the measurements taken…

“Although other studies have assessed relationships between linoleic acid and cardiometabolic risk factors, our study used objective biomarkers rather than diet records or food frequency questionnaires to assess linoleic acid intake,” Maki says. “We also measured a range of markers of inflammation and indicators of glucose metabolism.”

In summary, instead of fueling disease, linoleic acid may actually help protect against heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

“We saw consistent results across the different biomarkers measured,” Maki says. “People with higher levels of linoleic acid in their blood tended to have a healthier overall risk profile for heart disease and diabetes.”

Peak BP Platinum^™

Clinically-Tested Nutritients that Support Arterial Health and Blood Pressure!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Should you eat more, less or seek balance?

The researchers say these results support the need for additional research. But one thing’s for sure: Since omega-6 fatty acids are found in popular vegetable oils like canola oil, sunflower oil, corn oil, and soybean oil, many of us already get a significant amount of them in our diet.

That means you don’t need to focus on getting more. Instead, balance may be what to aim for. Your ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids should be 1:1.

In fact, the experts at Harvard recommend: Eat more omega-3s, not fewer omega-6s. But the American Heart Association reports that intake of omega-3s by US adults is “abysmally low.”

So, even though we’re discussing omega-6 fatty acids here, it’s important to consider the amount of omega-3s in your diet. Omega-3s help balance the possibility of inflammation connected to omega-6.

However, there are still considerations when using seed oils for cooking…

Absolutely avoid partially hydrogenated oil, which is high in trans fats — the worst kind of fat for your health. That means avoiding them in ultra-processed foods, such as baked goods, fried foods and some shortenings, makes good sense.

And, if cooking with seed oils, choose cold-pressed seed oils rather than heat-processed ones. The cold-pressing process does not involve chemical solvents like hexane.

Hexane is used in the chemical extraction of refined or commercial oils. Though exposure in cooking oil is very low, hexane can cause symptoms ranging from mild dizziness to severe, potentially permanent nerve damage.

Best yet, look to whole-food sources of omega-6, like sunflower seeds, walnuts and pumpkin seeds as well.

Editor’s Note: You’re invited to join a tiny handful of Americans who enjoy rare, fresh-pressed olive oil all year long. Take my word for it, there’s a difference in taste, quality and benefit! Try it for $1! Click here to learn more…

Sources:

Myth-busting study shows controversial seed oils reduce inflammation — ScienceDaily

Are seed oils bad for you? A registered dietitian explains the facts — Colorado State University

The post Do seed oils really deserve their bad reputation? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

However, more often than not, I feel I have to skip over my preferred side dish to avoid carbs, eat healthier and keep my blood sugar in the green zone.

But what if I told you that a new study is providing good news for potato lovers like me everywhere — revealing that there is a way to eat potatoes, without significantly impacting your diabetes risk.

And it’s even offering insight into just how often it’s okay to go all out and enjoy some French-fried goodness…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Boiled, baked, mashed or fried, oh my!

Scientists reported in the BMJ that while past research had linked eating potatoes to an increased risk of blood sugar problems, no one had ever determined if how the potatoes were prepared made a difference to that risk.

So they set out to fill that gap in our nutrition knowledge…

To begin, they analyzed data collected over a 40-year period from 205,000 health professionals who participated in three extensive U.S. studies conducted between 1984 and 2021. These participants were free of diabetes, heart disease or cancer when it started, and completed detailed food questionnaires every four years.

After measuring the risk of type 2 diabetes based on the intake of different preparation methods of potatoes — boiled, baked, or mashed versus French fries — here’s what they found…

• Eating three weekly servings of total potatoes increased the risk of type 2 diabetes by 5%.
• However, eating French fries three times a week skyrockets that risk to 20%.

All in all, they say that choosing baked, boiled or mashed potatoes was not associated with a significantly increased risk. But you might think twice or thrice about having French fries three times a week.

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Wise choices keep your risk low

This means keeping potatoes on the menu — especially if your guilty pleasure is creamy mashed potatoes or a baked potato with a pat of butter and topped with chives — doesn’t present a significant threat.

It also appears that the risk of diabetes is most significantly impacted by French fries when consumed three times a week. That means you may still be able to indulge once a week without losing control of your blood sugar.

So what could you replace those other two servings of fries with to help keep your type 2 diabetes odds low?

The researchers found that substituting baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes with whole grains lowered diabetes risk by 4%. But replacing French fries with whole grains lowered it by 19%.

You know what else would make for a great substitution? Berries.

• Previous studies have shown that people who consume the most anthocyanin-rich foods, like berries, are least likely to experience chronic inflammation, a condition long associated with metabolic syndrome and blood sugar issues.
• Berries also contain flavones, a phenolic compound, shown to improve levels of a protein (adiponectin) which helps regulate several metabolic processes, including glucose levels.
• Some berries, such as the Amazonian Jaboticaba berry, can help lower postprandial glycemia (blood sugar levels after meals).
• Best of all, most berries are antioxidant powerhouses. That’s a big deal because antioxidants guard against the development of diabetes. They support overall glycemic control by improving insulin sensitivity and slowing carbohydrate digestion.
• Berries are also excellent appetite suppressants.

So, don’t be afraid of the potatoes, as long as you choose good substitutes to keep your French fry habit to one or fewer servings a week. And when you do eat fries, make them at home. This video from America’s Test Kitchen shows how to make them from scratch in an air fryer.

But, whatever you do, steer clear of rice. The researchers found that white rice, as a substitute for potatoes, increased type 2 diabetes risk.

Sources:

What scientists discovered about french fries and diabetes — ScienceDaily

The post What you need to know about French fries and diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Like the way gum disease is tied to cancer and diabetes.

Well now, researchers have confirmed a new connection…

It comes from a type of drug known for helping get things “up” — but has been found to take down long-term blood sugar in type 2 diabetics…

Peak Bladder Support^™

Unique Formula Helps Reduce Urgency or the Immediate Urge to “Go” and Decreases Nighttime Bathroom Visits for More Restful Sleep!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

It’s all about nitric oxide

Before you read about this amazing connection, you need to know a little about nitric oxide (NO).

Nitric oxide is a gas that our bodies produce naturally. It acts as a signaling molecule, telling blood vessels to relax, for one very important purpose: to allow healthy blood flow to every nook and cranny of the body.

One arena where this is crucial is in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

NO is what makes drugs for erectile dysfunction, like Viagra and others, effective.

You see, erectile dysfunction is a vascular (blood vessel) and hormonal problem.

When NO helps the muscles in the penis to relax, the chambers inside the penis can fill with blood and an erection can be achieved.

Erectile dysfunction is not only a sign of trouble in the bedroom. It can be a sign of a serious heart problem or an indication of high blood sugar that is moving quickly toward full-blown diabetes.

And here’s where the connection comes in…

ED drugs promote effects of NO on blood sugar

Drugs like Viagra, known as PDE5 inhibitors, harness nitric oxide and its ability to open blood vessels.

That’s why, in previous research, investigators tested a theory that providing a sustained supply of NO may be an efficient way of treating cardiometabolic syndrome. Reduced NO absorption is a hallmark of the disorder.

And they were right. In experiments using mice, those that had their NO levels boosted had better glucose tolerance and lower fasting insulin levels. And compared to a control group that was not supplemented with NO, the NO mice gained 17 percent less body weight.

More recently, research at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden set out to investigate whether the drug tadalafil (Cialis), might have a similar effect in people…

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Potency drug reduced long-term blood sugar in small group of people

In their research, eighteen participants were randomly assigned to receive either a high daily dose of tadalafil or a placebo for a period of six weeks. The groups then switched for another six weeks.

Because tadalafil has several unpleasant side effects, including headache, heartburn, diarrhea, muscle and back pain, low blood pressure, nasal congestion, tinnitus and blurred vision, the participants were closely monitored. 

How did things pan out?

There was no significant difference in insulin sensitivity. But surprisingly, tadalafil caused a clear improvement in metabolic control, based on a test that shows how much sugar is in your blood known as the A1C test.

For people taking tadalafil, the level of A1C fell by an average of 2.50 mmol/mol (millimoles/mole).

“That’s a very distinct improvement in the long-term sugar levels, which we couldn’t have dreamed of after only six weeks of supplementary treatment in patients with well-controlled type 2 diabetes,” said Prof. Per-Anders Jansson who led the research.

But he also had a warning: “Self-medication with PDE5 inhibitors must never take place because, at worst, it can be life-threatening in combination with certain other drugs. These medicines are available on prescription only and must always be prescribed by the attending physician.”

His team is looking at repeating this pilot study with a larger group for a longer period to see if the results are similar.

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

It may not be a household word, but nitric oxide has been recognized in over 130,000 published scientific papers as a vital signaling molecule that keeps blood vessels healthy so they can perform as the body needs. But as you age, your cells produce less and… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How the body produces NO

Our bodies produce NO in a couple of ways — no drugs needed — with the right foods.

The most direct way is via the nitrate–nitrite–nitric oxide pathway. Research claims it’s the most bioavailable, sustainable and quickest route for raising NO levels. And it works like this…

When we eat foods containing dietary nitrates (not to be confused with the food preservatives sodium nitrite and sodium nitrate), like beets or spinach, a chemical reaction occurs with bacteria in the mouth. This converts nitrates to nitrites and then NO in the gut, bloodstream and various organs.

The amino acids l-arginine and l-citrulline are also building blocks of NO and are found in a range of foods, including:

• Lobster
• Turkey
• Chicken
• Watermelon
• Squash
• Chickpeas
• Pumpkin
• Cucumber

So, whether you are a meat eater, a vegetarian or a vegan, there are foods available to you that will help generate healthy levels of nitric oxide naturally. That’s a relief considering the side effects — and the cost of drugs like Cialis…

To quote Dr. John Morley, director of endocrinology at Saint Louis University in Missouri, providing his opinion on a similar study, “Clearly, there is a potential, but these are among the most expensive drugs there are.”

Sources:

Potency drug reduced long-term blood sugar in type 2 diabetes — Eureka Alert

Feasibility of high-dose tadalafil and effects on insulin resistance in well-controlled patients with type 2 diabetes (MAKROTAD): a single-centre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, cross-over phase 2 trial — The Lancet

All About Your A1C — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

The post The ED drug that brings long-term blood sugar down appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Sadly, if you’re living with even a single one of these cardiometabolic diseases, your risk of death doubles. End up with more than one of them, and your chances of dying are now four to seven times greater — frightening facts that make finding ways to prevent these diseases vital.

Luckily, researchers say that not only have they found a simple way to do just that in a drink many of us enjoy every morning…

They’ve even nailed down exactly how much of it you need to avoid the multiple cardiometabolic disease trap that could spell death…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Drink coffee to crush cardiometabolic disease

The research, conducted at Suzhou Medical College in China, tracked the cardiometabolic health of over 172,000 participants who consumed varying levels of caffeine daily, compared to an additional 188,000 people who drank coffee or tea.

And the results all came down to a simple fact…

Both coffee and caffeine intake — in general, at all levels — were inversely associated with the risk of new-onset of multiple cardiometabolic diseases.

In other words, getting any amount of caffeine daily, whether from supplements or a tasty cup of joe, lowers the likelihood of metabolic health problems — especially of the multiple varieties.

However, according to the researchers, a moderate level of coffee or caffeine intake is the amount to shoot for if you want the most bang for your buck.

That’s because moderate coffee or caffeine intake resulted in the lowest risk and was inversely associated with almost all developmental stages of cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

The researchers found that compared with non-coffee drinkers or those who consumed less than 100mg caffeine per day, consumers of three coffees or 200-300 mg of caffeine per day had a 48.1 percent or 40.7 percent reduced risk for new-onset cardiometabolic multimorbidity.

Peak BP Platinum^™

Clinically-Tested Nutritients that Support Arterial Health and Blood Pressure!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Don’t sabotage your coffee’s health benefits

Of course, not all coffee is created equal when it comes to your health.

For the best metabolic support, be sure to:

• Avoid sugar-laden coffees – While that whipped-cream-topped caramel latte may be tasty, consuming too much sugar is a sure path to metabolic syndrome. It sabotages cholesterol and increases heart risks. If you like your coffee sweet, try a natural, plant-based sweetener, like stevia, instead of sugar.
• Add whole milk or cream – Research is showing that whole-fat dairy is not just good for your heart, it could reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and death from any cause, even more than consuming reduced-fat dairy.
• Avoid espresso – Drinking just three espressos has been shown to significantly increase serum total cholesterol (a metabolic risk factor), especially in men. It takes six or more cups of coffee made in a French press or filtered coffee to do the same.

So if you want to avoid becoming another metabolic statistic, feel free to enjoy your favorite morning beverage guilt-free!

But remember, your favorite giant mug doesn’t count as one cup if it holds over 6 to 8 ounces. So keep it around 18 to 24 ounces a day.

Sources:

Moderate coffee and caffeine consumption is associated with lower risk of developing multiple cardiometabolic diseases, new study finds – EurekAlert!

The coffee brew method that raises cholesterol most for men – Easy Health Options

The post Coffee: The cardiometabolic disease crusher that lowers heart disease, diabetes and stroke appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

If you said, “My skin,” good for you!

Most people don’t think of their skin as an “organ,” like their heart, liver or kidneys — but it absolutely is. What’s more, it’s the most vulnerable.

Think about it: your skin is like a shield between you and the pollutants, ultraviolet radiation, pathogens and toxins you encounter daily. But that’s not all…

When you sweat, that’s your skin regulating your body temperature and excreting waste products. Your skin also synthesizes vitamin D from exposure to sunlight — and that’s the only way to get this essential vitamin other than supplementing.

And what do you do for your skin in return? You might moisturize it during the winter and protect it from the sun during the summer — paying most of that attention to your face or exposed areas.

But if you had a serious skin problem, would you recognize it or know what to do? Here are seven unusual but significant skin symptoms that dermatologists say always warrant a visit to your doctor…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

7 skin changes that require attention

A pimple that bleeds and won’t go away

You’ve had a small bump on your face for several months. It looks like a pimple, only without a head, and it bleeds without being touched. Never let something like this linger for months. It should be biopsied to make sure it’s not skin cancer.

If it is cancerous, Mohs micrographic surgery only removes a layer at a time, so you don’t end up looking disfigured. Each section removed is examined under a special microscope. A dermatologist will stop removing skin when the last piece excised shows no sign of “roots.”

But be warned: if it is a skin cancer, the longer you wait, the deeper the “roots” can go. It’s crucial to remove every bit of it, and if it’s been allowed to grow unchecked, that could definitely leave a scar.

Veins you can see

Factors like hot weather, tight clothing and strenuous exercise can make your veins more noticeable. But if you previously couldn’t see your veins and now they’re prominently noticeable, have your doctor take a look. It could be a sign of deep vein thrombosis. Other key signs include pain, swelling and warmth in the affected body part.

Peak D3^™

Gives You the Vitamin D3 You Can’t Get From Sunshine Alone!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Strange marks on your nails

Believe it or not, your fingernails are often the best indicators that something is going wrong in your body. Here are three examples:

• Splinter hemorrhages. These crooked red lines resemble splinters under the nail bed and may indicate endocarditis (an often misdiagnosed heart infection that inflames the heart). Splinter hemorrhages occur when tiny blood clots associated with endocarditis damage the small blood vessels under the nail.
• Small red spots under the nail bed. These can be a sign of the autoimmune disease lupus.  
• Also, a dark line running from top to bottom of the nail could be a sign of melanoma of the nail. Check the thumb, index finger, or big toe for this, and get a biopsy if you see any changes.

Skin changes that feel like velvet

Dark, velvety patches of skin might be a condition called acanthosis nigricans, which is often caused by insulin resistance that can lead to type 2 diabetes if left unchanged.

It often shows up in skin creases and folds on the neck, in the armpits, inside the elbows, behind the knees, and on knuckles–and is evidence that elevated insulin levels are speeding up skin cell reproduction.

Skin that glows or shines

A sudden, unnatural sheen to the skin could indicate hormonal changes, skin infections, or even skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma usually appears in areas exposed to sunlight. It appears as a tiny translucent bump with blood vessels on the surface that may bleed. Basal cell carcinoma is highly curable if detected early. An Australian study found that supplementing niacinamide reduced basal and squamous cell carcinoma risk.

Peak Blood Flow^™

Supports Healthy Circulation to your Heart, Brain, Lungs, Eyes and Extremities!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Itchy palms

If not due to dry winter skin, and if they flare up at night and are not accompanied by a rash, your itchy palms could signal gallbladder issues. To rule this out, it’s important to get blood work done to check your liver function and bile acids. Sometimes itchy palms may be a warning sign of pancreatic cancer.

Skin changes that feel like sandpaper

If your skin is so dry that it’s full of small, rough bumps like sandpaper, you could have a condition called keratosis pilaris, also called “chicken skin.”

The condition is not dangerous and can be treated with moisturizers and prescription creams. However, it could be an indication that you’re predisposed to atopic dermatitis, asthma, and seasonal allergies, so it’s good to identify it early.

Other conditions to watch out for include slow-healing wounds and new sensitivities to products that didn’t cause problems before.

When in doubt, always go to your doctor. “Better safe than sorry” is the rule of thumb here.

Sources: 

12 Weird Symptoms Dermatologists Say You Should Never Ignore — Time

The post 7 skin changes that should never go unchecked appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

For men, it’s a bit more complicated. While some older men with erectile dysfunction (ED) do suffer from low testosterone levels, it’s far from the only potential cause. Some others include:

• Heart disease
• Atherosclerosis
• High cholesterol
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Obesity
• Metabolic syndrome
• Parkinson’s disease
• Treatments for prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate

It may be surprising to see diabetes on this list. But high blood sugar can cause vascular and nerve damage (or neuropathy), both of which can decrease blood flow to the genitals.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with diabetes, you may think you’re in the clear. However, recent research indicates even a small increase in blood sugar levels could have an impact on your sex life…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Blood sugar elevation and virility

For the study, researchers recruited 200 healthy men ages 18 to 85 in 2014 and tracked them through 2020. By the end of the study, 117 men were still participating.

The researchers examined progressive changes in participants’ semen and hormonal profiles, erectile function and metabolic health. The latter was measured through BMI and blood sugar levels monitored by the HbA1c test.

According to the results, hormone levels and semen parameters stayed largely within normal ranges over time. However, sperm movement and erectile function decreased in men with minimally elevated blood sugar levels below the diabetes threshold of 6.5% HbA1c.

The study also found that while testosterone levels did not have a direct impact on erectile function, they were related to participants’ libido assessment.

“Although age and testosterone levels have long been considered an impetus for men’s declining sexual health, our research indicates that these changes more closely correlate with modest increases in blood sugar and other metabolic changes,” says Dr. Michael Zitzmann, professor and doctor of medicine at University Hospital in Muenster, Germany.

“This means that men can take steps to preserve or revive their reproductive health with lifestyle choices and appropriate medical interventions,” Zitzmann adds.

Zitzman notes that the researchers hope the information gleaned from the study will help doctors and their patients establish effective male sexual health maintenance plans. “We now know that it’s in our power to retain sexual and reproductive wellbeing in men, even as they age,” he says.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

Supports Improved Oxygen Levels… Healthy Circulation… and Balanced Hormones for Better Overall Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Keeping blood sugar in balance

The best way to keep blood sugar levels in check is through diet. Any diet that ditches added sugars and ultra-processed foods for more lean meats, fruits and vegetables and whole grains is a good place to start.

But if you’re on the road to diabetes, you may want to try a low-calorie keto diet. In addition to helping manage blood sugar, this diet can also boost testosterone. The downside is that it’s hard to stick to. In that case, consider a Mediterranean diet. Both diets improve blood sugar, weight and metabolic health.

Another lifestyle change that can help is getting regular exercise. Engaging in regular physical activity increases your body’s sensitivity to insulin, allowing sugar to be processed more efficiently. In fact, exercise can lower your blood sugar for up to 24 hours or more after you work out.

You should also consider a vitamin D supplement. Taking vitamin D has been associated with a reduced likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated but have not yet progressed to full-blown diabetes. The recommended therapeutic dose for vitamin D is between 4000 and 5000 IUs a day.

There are a few supplements that have shown promise in balancing blood sugar levels, including black seed oil and berberine. Make sure you talk to your doctor before taking supplements if you’re already on medication to lower your blood sugar.

Sources:

Not just diabetes: How slightly high blood sugar wrecks men’s sexual health — ScienceDaily

Male Virility Affected By Minimal Rises In Blood Sugar, Study Says — U.S. News & World Report

Erectile dysfunction — Mayo Clinic

Blood Glucose and Exercise — American Diabetes Association

The post How slightly elevated blood sugar tanks a man’s sex life appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

One source I’ve overlooked that is incredibly cheap is legumes, a category of foods that includes beans, chickpeas and lentils. Dried beans can cost as little as 10 to 20 cents a serving, and canned beans aren’t much more, coming in at about 25 to 40 cents a serving.

The protein content of legumes can range anywhere from 17.9 grams per cup of lentils to 14.5 grams per cup of chickpeas, which is roughly 29 to 36 percent of the recommended daily amount of protein. Not bad for such an inexpensive product!

And that’s not all — legumes have a healthy dose of fiber as well, with a cup of lentils containing 15.5 grams of fiber and a cup of black beans coming in at 15 grams of fiber.

People who eat more legumes have a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes and a reduced risk of dying from a stroke.

And now it seems that two specific legumes may have even more health benefits in store…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Chickpeas for cholesterol, black beans for inflammation

Researchers at Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago conducted a study of 72 people with prediabetes to see how they responded to the addition of certain legumes to their diet. One group consumed a cup of chickpeas, one group ate a cup of black beans, and a control group had a cup of white rice every day for 12 weeks.

The study was conducted in free-living conditions to increase its relevance to everyday life. Blood samples were taken at the beginning of the study and the six- and 12-week marks to track cholesterol, inflammation and blood sugar, and glucose tolerance tests were conducted at the beginning and the end of the study.

The results were impressive. At the end of the trial, those on the chickpea diet saw their cholesterol levels drop from an average of 200.4 to 185.8 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). While seemingly a small change, it actually brings people into the normal range for cholesterol, which is considered any reading below 200 mg/dl.

And that’s not all. Those eating black beans experienced a drop in their average level of pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-6, a marker of inflammation. These levels dropped significantly, from 2.57 to 1.88 picograms per milliliter after 12 weeks.

No significant changes were observed in glucose metabolism markers.

“Individuals with prediabetes often exhibit impaired lipid metabolism and chronic low-grade inflammation, both of which can contribute to the development of conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes,” says Morganne Smith, a doctoral candidate at Illinois Institute of Technology and co-author of the study.

“Our study found that bean consumption helped significantly lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation in people with prediabetes, although glucose levels were not changed.”

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Incorporating disease-lowering legumes into your diet

Even though this study showed the benefits of eating beans for adults with prediabetes, the researchers emphasized they are an excellent option for anyone focused on preventing heart disease and diabetes.

“Just adding one cup of beans a day can make some big differences,” says Indika Edirisinghe, a nutritionist at Illinois Institute of Technology.

So, how can you add a cup a day of these legumes to your diet?

The researchers say swapping canned, dried or frozen chickpeas or black beans in place of less healthy options is a great way to start. Just be wary of any additional ingredients like salt or sugar — if the beans or chickpeas are canned, you’ll want to rinse away the excess salt before cooking.

“There are a lot of ways to incorporate beans into your regular diet as a cost-effective way to support overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases,” Smith says. “You can blend them to add some thickness to a soup base, add them as a salad topping or pair them with other grains like rice or quinoa.”

What about their gastrointestinal impact? I’m sure you’ve heard the poem, “beans, beans, the musical fruit…” The good news is that while some study participants noted gastrointestinal issues, their guts seemed to adapt over the course of the trial.

Sources:

A cup of chickpeas a day lowers cholesterol — ScienceNews

Study finds daily cup of beans boosts heart and metabolic health — EurekAlert!

Effects of Chronic Intake of Black Beans and Chickpeas on Metabolic and Inflammatory Markers in Adults With Pre-diabetes — Current Developments in Nutrition

The Cost of Beans vs. Meat — The Vegetarian Resource Group

Top 10 Beans and Legumes Highest in Protein — My Food Data

Chart of high-fiber foods — Mayo Clinic

The post The pennies a day cure for cholesterol and inflammation appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

One reason is because it’s easy to stick to. In fact, it’s not really a “diet” at all, but more like a lifestyle choice that‘s more about choosing the right foods than restricting what you eat.

But in all of this, there’s more talk about the food and very little about the spices that are typical of Mediterranean cooking, like black cumin, garlic, rosemary, cinnamon, ginger, and fennel.

Rosemary is my personal favorite. But it’s not one of the three that have recently been found to play a powerful role in the fight against diabetes…

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Free radicals 101

You’ve probably heard of free radicals (also known as reactive oxygen species, or ROS), those pesky, unstable molecules that a lot of us carry around due to exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollutants and other toxins.

Free radicals are also an unavoidable result of certain metabolic processes, like those involved in energy production.

That’s why a balance between free radicals and antioxidants is necessary. If free radicals overwhelm the body’s ability to regulate them, a condition known as oxidative stress occurs.

Many diseases can result, or become worse if oxidative stress goes uncontrolled.

Type 2 diabetes is one of them.

Antioxidant spices win at managing blood sugar and A1C

A group of Spanish researchers conducted a meta-analysis (an examination of 77 existing studies) to determine which Mediterranean spices are most beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes in terms of their glycemic profile.

A glycemic profile is like a “snapshot” of a person’s blood glucose fluctuations throughout the day. It shows how well (or poorly) their insulin is working to control their blood sugar.

Reactive oxygen species can compromise a glycemic profile in two ways: they can lead to insulin resistance (insulin is produced but the body does not respond to it as it should), as well as to β-cell dysfunction (insulin secretion is impaired).

“As far as we are aware, this is the first systematic review and meta-analysis aiming to evaluate the effect of aromatic herbs and spices included in the Mediterranean Diet, such as black cumin, clove [and others], on the glycemic profile of individuals with type 2 diabetes,” the study noted.

Peak Cardio Platinum^™

Clinically-Tested Nutrients Help Arteries and Cardiovascular Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The analysis focused on cinnamon, curcumin, ginger, black cumin, saffron, and rosemary.

But three stood out for their powerful effects on different aspects important for blood sugar management:

• Only ginger and black cumin were associated with a significant improvement in A1c (a blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past three months)
• Only cinnamon and ginger were associated with a significant decrease in insulin values (cinnamon is already well-known for keeping blood sugar in check).
• Ginger was the only spice associated with a significant decrease in fasting glucose, A1c, and insulin.

What’s behind these spice benefits?

Spices are at the top of the ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity) scale. The NIH’s National Institute on Aging developed ORAC to quantify a food’s total antioxidant capacity (TAC) — which equates to it strength in fighting off free radicals.

So there you have it. Spice things up and reap the benefits!

Sources:

Ginger, Cinnamon, Cumin Improve Glycemic Control — Medscape

Effect of Aromatic Herbs and Spices Present in the Mediterranean Diet on the Glycemic Profile in Type 2 Diabetes Subjects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis — Nutrients

Free radicals, antioxidants and functional foods: Impact on human health — Pharmacognosy Reviews

The post 3 spices that tackled A1C, fasting glucose, insulin and won appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It’s a serious disease that can cause blindness, foot amputation, nerve damage and kidney problems, to name a few of the possible long-term effects.

And even though diabetes doesn’t just appear out of thin air, it can sneak up on you…

Approximately 1 in 3 American adults have prediabetes, a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but have not crossed the threshold for diabetes yet.

Unfortunately, most people in this stage don’t know the warning signs of prediabetes, that it carries a serious threat for heart damage or that it’s a critical point for stopping the trajectory to type 2 diabetes.

Physicians will advise keeping weight, blood sugar and cholesterol levels healthy through diet and exercise to avoid prediabetes.

But if you still find yourself in prediabetes limbo, you could benefit from extra help — like taking a common vitamin found to slash the risk of progression to full-blown diabetes…

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Vitamin D could save millions from a diabetes diagnosis

Vitamin D, known as the sunshine vitamin, is best known for powerful immune support. Few of us realize it also has important roles in insulin secretion and glucose metabolism. In fact, previous research has associated low blood levels of vitamin D with a higher risk of developing diabetes.

Researchers from Tufts Medical Center conducted a review and meta-analysis (they combined the statistical results) of three clinical trials comparing the impact of vitamin D supplements on diabetes risk for adults with prediabetes.

Over a three-year follow-up period, they saw that supplementing vitamin D was associated with a 15 percent decreased likelihood for developing type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes.

Given the fact that more than 374 million adults worldwide have prediabetes, the authors used their findings to deduce that vitamin D supplementation could delay the development of diabetes in more than ten million people.

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Gives Your Cells the Energy They Need for Optimal Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Vitamin D helps take down risk factors

If you know a little more about vitamin D’s association with other risk factors that are known to contribute to the development of diabetes, there’s no mystery about why D is the anti-diabetes vitamin…

Take obesity, considered one of the top risk factors. People who are low in vitamin D are also more likely to be obese. But worse, a study from Spain has shown that lacking vitamin D expands your chances of developing diabetes even more than being overweight.

Another study found that people with vitamin D blood levels of 50 ng/mL (considered adequate) were five times less likely to develop diabetes than those with 20ng/mL. The lead author of that study, Dr. Cedric Garland, believes rather than focusing solely on obesity and sugar and fat intake, we should be focusing on vitamin D levels.

Per the good folks at Harvard T. Chan School of Public Health, the RDA for vitamin D provides the daily amount needed to just maintain healthy bones and normal calcium metabolism in healthy people. That means 600 to 800 IU a day likely won’t turn prediabetes around.

The Institute of Medicine increased the upper limit of vitamin D to 4000 IU a day for adults, but other experts recommend a therapeutic daily dose of 5000 IU. Because of a growing body of research that’s finding vitamin D is not a one-size-fits-all vitamin, some have also suggested that dosage be based on BMI.

If you’re unsure what your vitamin D levels are, your doctor can test them. He’d also best know of any conditions or medications that could lower your levels or potential interactions.

Sources:

Vitamin D supplementation may lower diabetes risk for the more than 10 million adults with prediabetes — Eureka Alert

Vitamin D and Risk for Type 2 Diabetes in People With Prediabetes — Annals of Internal Medicine

Time out: should vitamin D dosing be based on patient’s body mass index (BMI): a prospective controlled study — Cambridge University Press

The post The vitamin that could turn prediabetes around appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

If you have type 2 diabetes, your risk for heart disease, kidney disease, and nerve damage is higher.

So is the risk of liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.

And a recent study demonstrates that obesity skyrockets that risk.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How obesity makes a vicious cycle even worse

Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance, a condition where cells become less responsive to insulin. Insulin resistance can lead to a buildup of fat in the liver.

That’s why people with type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD, formerly called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD).

Insulin resistance can worsen fatty liver disease, and fatty liver disease can, in turn, exacerbate insulin resistance, creating a vicious cycle

But a study at Sweden’s Linköping University Hospital has found that being obese will skyrocket the chances of someone with type 2 diabetes moving quickly from MASLD to cirrhosis or liver cancer.

Of the more than 300 people with type 2 diabetes who participated in the study, close to 59 percent had metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, according to their MRI scans.

The researchers also used an ultrasound to measure liver stiffness, an indication of early-stage cirrhosis. These measurements showed that about 7 per cent of the participants had changes suggesting early-stage cirrhosis of the liver

But among those who had both type 2 diabetes and obesity, that number went up to13 percent as compared with only two percent in people who were not obese.

The finding is important for determining whether patients with type 2 diabetes should be screened for liver disease.

“People with both type 2 diabetes and obesity are a group at particular risk that healthcare should prioritise in future efforts,” says Dr. Wile Balkhed, a resident physician at Linköping University Hospital.

Peak D3^™

When you step out into the sunlight, your body begins the process of making vitamin D. But getting the ideal amount can be difficult because some of us can’t effectively absorb it. That’s just one of many reasons the vitamin D deficiency is an epidemic… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Prevent insulin resistance and support your liver

Make no mistake: insulin resistance is a sign that your metabolism is seriously out of whack. It means your pancreas, the organ that produces insulin, is exhausted, and the sooner you start an all-out effort to get your metabolism back in line, the better:

Lose a few pounds. Excess weight, especially belly fat, tops the list of causes of insulin resistance.

Exercise more. Many studies have also found that resistance training can increase insulin sensitivity among men and women with or without diabetes.

If you need help finding the energy to exercise, enlist the help of the antioxidant, PQQ, found to go after visceral fat (belly fat) while delivering the energy the body needs for exercise.

Eat healthy foods.  Add more soluble fiber and colorful fruits like berries and vegetables to your diet. The more colorful the better, as these contain antioxidants that have been shown to help with weight loss and curb insulin resistance. Cut back on high glycemic foods like carbs (which stimulate excess insulin production), sugars and processed starches. Also, eat much less red meat.

Keep your vitamin D levels healthy. Several studies have connected low vitamin D levels to insulin sensitivity.

Boost CoQ10 levels. Research has also shown that low CoQ10 levels correlate to insulin resistance.

Get more sleep. Give up night owl habits. Getting more sleep can help reverse the effects of insulin resistance. Melatonin can be helpful in more ways than one.

Sources:

Fatty liver – but not liver damage – common in type 2 diabetes — Eureka Alert

Evaluating the prevalence and severity of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in primary care  — Journal of Internal Medicine

Diabetes and obesity can damage the liver to the point of failure — UMass Chan Medical School

The post Diabetes + obesity = a recipe for serious liver damage appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Take the hormone glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). It’s released when we eat in order to stimulate insulin.

But GLP-1 does more than regulate blood sugar. It also suppresses appetite by slowing the passage of food from the stomach.

Sure enough, the weight loss industry latched on to this and brought us the drug Ozempic, whose active ingredient is semaglutide.

Originally meant to treat type 2 diabetes, it’s also marketed in a higher dose (with a hefty price) as Wegovy to anyone willing to pay for the weight loss “miracle drug.”

And now, experts are sounding new alarm bells about harmful impacts…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Semaglutide can rob you of muscle mass

According to a study presented at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in San Francisco, women and older adults taking these anti-obesity drugs may be at higher risk for muscle loss.

For adults with obesity, losing muscle is already a common side effect of weight loss.

But according to Dr. Melanie Haines of Harvard Medical School, about 40% of the weight loss experienced by women and older adults taking semaglutide-based drugs is not fat loss, but rather the loss of lean muscle.

Since muscle helps control blood sugar (and support bone health), it’s not surprising that the researchers also saw less improvement in HbA1c levels among this group. Not only does muscle increase insulin sensitivity, but it also takes glucose from the bloodstream to fuel muscle cells.

In fact, sarcopenia — age-related loss of muscle mass — is tied to health complications including diabetes.

Additionally, Dr. Haines and her colleagues found that eating less protein is also linked to greater muscle loss while on these drugs — and cautions that more studies are needed to find the best way to lose fat but keep muscle when using GLP-1 medications.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

Supports Improved Oxygen Levels… Healthy Circulation… and Balanced Hormones for Better Overall Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Consider the risks and the alternatives

Muscle loss is just the latest in a series of findings that should make you think twice before using semaglutide as a weight loss strategy.

A large study at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital, one of the country’s largest neuro-ophthalmology clinics, found an association between semaglutide and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), an irreversible and uncommon condition causing damage to the optic nerve and, ultimately, permanent loss of vision.

And both Wegovy and Ozempic have black box warnings. A black box warning is the most serious type of health warning mandated by the FDA.

Such a warning, usually prominently featured on a drug’s label, is reserved for serious adverse reactions or special problems associated with a drug.

A safer alternative is to help your body do its job naturally by eating foods that balance and strengthen your hunger hormones, stabilize blood sugar and help you feel full.

Berries create a feeling of fullness, and their anthocyanin content makes the body more sensitive to insulin.

Oats contain beta-glucan, a form of fiber singled out in a study to mimic how GLP-1 agonists work, without the harmful side effects.

Protein has been shown to suppress ghrelin, the hormone that signals hunger.

The only side effect here is that it could take you a little longer to lose weight than if you took drugs, and it may require some exercise. But building your muscles is also going to help keep your blood sugar under control.

But using the right foods to achieve your weight loss goals will leave you with good eating habits you can use for the rest of your life and won’t leave you with side effects like diarrhea… or an empty bank account.

Sources:

Semaglutide melts fat—but may quietly strip away your strength — Science Daily

The post Semaglutide melts muscle: Why that’s bad news for blood sugar appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Flavonoids help prevent diseases like diabetes and heart disease.

So you may think that it’s a good idea to eat as much flavonoid-rich food as you can.

Well, you wouldn’t exactly be wrong there, but ….

“Eat the rainbow” was coined for a good reason: to reap the incredible disease-fighting benefits of flavonoids and reduce your risk of early death, research suggests it’s key to get them from many different sources.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Diversity matters to live long and without chronic disease

An international team of researchers analyzed data on 124,805 adults in the UK Biobank aged 40 or over, looking for links between self-reported diet and health.

They found a correlation between the amount of flavonoids in the diet and conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and neurological disease.

According to ECU Research Fellow, first author and co-lead of the study Dr Benjamin Parmenter, “Flavonoid intakes of around 500 mg a day was associated with a 16% lower risk of all-cause mortality, as well as a ~10% lower risk of CVD, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory disease. That’s roughly the amount of flavonoids that you would consume in two cups of tea.”

He added, however, that those who consumed the widest diversity of flavonoids from a variety of foods, even when consuming the same total amount, had an even lower risk of these diseases.

So why does diversity matter?

According to study co-lead Professor Aedín Cassidy from the Co-Centre for Sustainable Food Systems and Institute for Global Food Security at Queen’s University Belfast, “… different flavonoids work in different ways, some improve blood pressure, others help with cholesterol levels and decrease inflammation. This study is significant as the results indicate that consuming a higher quantity and wider diversity has the potential to lead to a greater reduction in ill health than just a single source.”

“The results provide a clear public health message, suggesting that simple and achievable dietary swaps, such as drinking more tea and eating more berries and apples for example, can help increase the variety and intake of flavonoid-rich foods, and potentially improve health in the long-term,” she added.

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

Give your Body the Optimal Alkalizing Nutrients you Need for Healthy pH Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How to improve your flavonoid game

There are over 6,000 known flavonoids found in a variety of foods, and they can appear together in some foods, including:

Flavonols like quercetin, found in apples and pears, lower stroke risk and reduce inflammation. Quercetin also slashes dementia risk, along with kaempferol and others.

Isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen.

Flavanones lower cholesterol and fat in the blood..

Anthocyanins found in purple, red, and blue produce are antioxidants that support brain, heart and immune functions.

Chalcones have antioxidant properties, protecting the body from cancer and age-related illnesses.

Catechins are popularly found in green tea, and play a role in skin and gut health, among other benefits.

Clearly, you want to be eating plenty of flavonoids.

But here’s the thing … these different classes of flavonoids aren’t all found in one place.

They’re spread among a wide range of foods, including:

• Blueberries
• Peaches
• Red grapes
• Cranberries
• Apples
• Kale
• Onions
• Broccoli
• Black and green tea
• Soy beans
• Cherries

Oh, and they’re also found in red wine and dark chocolate!

A challenge for you

The people in this study who were consuming the most flavonoids were snacking on 19 different types of flavonoids a day!

Can you come close to that? Want to try?

The way to do it, or to even come close, is to eat a wide range of flavonoid-rich foods. Some were mentioned above. Others include:

• lettuce
• bananas
• raspberries
• blackberries
• strawberries
• citrus fruits
• tomatoes
• pears

Nutritionists advise you to “eat the rainbow,” meaning you should consume fruits and vegetables of many colors in order to get your share of flavonoids.

And with summer upon us, that shouldn’t be too hard!

Sources:

Having a mix of tea, berries, apples, and grapes every day may lower your risk of chronic disease and early death — Scimex

A Mix of These Specific Foods Could Help You Avoid Chronic Disease — Science Alert

High diversity of dietary flavonoid intake is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality and major chronic diseases — Nature Food

Top foods high in flavonoids — Web MD

The post Diversify your flavonoids to ditch disease and live longer appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Funny thing is, if you come to them with physical complaints, especially anything pain-related, they’ll often file that under the label of depression, too, and pull out that prescription form.

But they’ve been missing out on the actual physical toll of depression that research pioneer Dr. Philip Gold recently laid out in a landmark paper published in Brain Medicine’s Seymour Reichlin Centenary Festschrift collection.

Depression doesn’t just sometimes hurt. It contributes to the most common chronic diseases, cutting our lives short…

Peak Vitality^™

Your adrenal glands support essential functions from metabolism to stress response. But when they become fatigued, problems with sleep quality, unwanted weight gain, moodiness, energy levels and more can take your vitality for a dive. Nutrients called “adaptogens” help restore balance and improve… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Far beyond mood changes: Disease and shorter lifespan

“Depression’s toll reaches beyond mood and thought, extending into physical health risks like coronary artery disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and stroke,” explains Dr. Gold.

In fact, considering that these conditions collectively reduce life expectancy by approximately 7 to 10 years in people suffering from them, depression clearly has an adverse effect on longevity itself.

To determine just how depression leads to these life-threatening diseases, Dr. Gold looked at the brain, discovering that people who are depressed experience striking changes in brain structure.

These changes include a 40% reduction in subgenual prefrontal cortex volume—a region that plays a critical role in regulating the stress response.

If that weren’t enough, these structural changes occur in conjunction with disruptions in multiple hormone systems, particularly involving corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and norepinephrine.

“The combined effects of CRH, norepinephrine, cortisol, and inflammatory pathways help explain why depression often leads to early onset of various illnesses and a shortened lifespan for those affected,” notes Dr. Gold, emphasizing the interconnected nature of these systems.

Clearly, the proof is in the pudding. And no matter what your doctor might say, depression is not only in your head.

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

It may not be a household word, but nitric oxide has been recognized in over 130,000 published scientific papers as a vital signaling molecule that keeps blood vessels healthy so they can perform as the body needs. But as you age, your cells produce less and… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Don’t let depression rain on your good health

This isn’t the first we’ve heard about the impact of mental health on physical health…

In fact, scientists at Ohio State revealed a powerful connection between mental health and heart disease.  

“Heart disease and anxiety/depression interact such that each promotes the other,” said lead study author Philip Binkley, MD. “There appear to be mental processes that link heart disease with anxiety and depression that are currently under investigation. Both heart disease and anxiety/depression are associated with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. This is part of the so-called involuntary nervous system that increases heart rate, blood pressure and can also contribute to anxiety and depression.”

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body for the “fight or flight” response during any potential danger. On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system inhibits the body from overworking and restores the body to a calm and composed state.

So, if you’ve been living with depression, be sure you are heard when talking to a doctor about it. And when you see your primary physician, be sure he’s aware that you are dealing with depression so he can pay closer attention to what’s going on in your body.

In addition, these practices could help you mentally and physically:

• Boost your dopamine levels – This happiness hormone is linked to the nervous system and low levels can result in depression.
• Conscious movement – Yoga is a great way to reduce both depression and anxiety. Here are three of the most effective poses anyone can do.
• Foods – Researchers have found that certain foods can help DASH symptoms of depression. So be sure to put the right diet to work for you. Foods that contain the prebiotic galacto-oligosaccharides (like legumes and nuts) are especially helpful at reducing anxiety levels.
• Supplements – If you’re deficient in certain amino acids or minerals, it can amp up your depression. Two of the most important are arginine and magnesium. Research has shown that people with depression also suffered low arginine levels which can lower the amount of nitric oxide in the body. Low levels of nitric oxide are necessary for healthy blood flow and facilitate heart health.

Sources:

Depression research pioneer Dr. Philip Gold maps disease’s full-body impact — EurekAlert!

The link between depression chronic illness and a shorter life — Easy Health Options

The amino acid deficiency that leads to depression — Easy Health Options

The post The full-body impact of depression: Chronic disease appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Factors like exercise, stress levels and sleep quality can cause your brain to appear older or younger than your chronological years.

However, one of the most significant influences on brain aging could be a common condition half of Americans struggle with…

Recent findings from one of the largest Brain MRI intervention studies indicate that getting it under control is crucial for promoting a youthful brain…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Long-term blood sugar and brain changes

As we age, the brain experiences structural changes — specifically, the hippocampus often shrinks while the lateral ventricles expand, signaling brain aging. A younger brain age is associated with improved cognitive health, while an older brain age may raise the risk of cognitive decline.

Previous research showed that following the Green Mediterranean diet can slow brain aging by an impressive 50% in just 18 months.

To understand why, researchers at Ben-Gurion University compared MRI scans of individuals with stable blood sugar levels to those with elevated levels, aiming to assess how blood sugar maintenance affects brain age.

The results were striking: declines in HbA1c, a marker of long-term blood sugar levels, were significantly linked to positive changes in specific brain regions often affected by age-related shrinkage.

Notably, individuals with better blood sugar control demonstrated a more youthful thalamus, caudate nucleus, and cerebellum — areas crucial for cognitive function, motor control, and sensory processing.

In other words, the current study further strengthened existing research that the Green-Med diet may not only support metabolic health but also exert protective effects on brain structure and function.

The Green Mediterranean diet is rich in polyphenols from plant-based foods, such as Mankai (a high-protein aquatic plant also known as duckweed) and green tea, and low in red and processed meats.

The study’s lead researcher, Prof. Iris Shai, from Ben-Gurion University, an adjunct professor at Harvard University, and an Honorary Professor at Leipzig University, explained, “Maintaining low blood sugar levels, even within the normal range, shows promise for preserving a younger brain, especially when combined with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. Specifically, polyphenols found in plant-based foods may cross the blood-brain barrier and help reduce brain inflammation, which is crucial for memory”.

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Blood sugar control helps preserve brain age and function

Considering that roughly half of the U.S. population struggles with either diabetes or prediabetes, it’s easy to see why rates of cognitive decline keep climbing.

This study is one of the first large-scale trials to directly link dietary changes, particularly those associated with the Green-Med diet, to improved glycemic control and slower brain aging.

But if you aren’t sure how to incorporate duckweed into your diet, berries could help you harness the power of polyphenols, and have a reputation for both brain and blood sugar health.

Here’s how:

• Polyphenols enhance the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones, thereby regulating blood glucose levels and improving glucose tolerance.
• They also regulate the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, improving mood and memory function.
• Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs), which form when sugars react with proteins and fats, contribute to cognitive decline. Polyphenols and antioxidants stop the formation of AGEs.

One berry in particular, the Aronia berry, is known as the “blood sugar berry.” In one study, blood sugar levels normalized in just three months with no other dietary changes among participants who drank aronia berry juice daily.

America’s favorite, the blueberry, has been shown to support healthy insulin levels and weight management. In a 12-week study, men and women who drank a daily serving of blueberry juice performed better on memory tests than the placebo group and showed improved blood flow.

The acai berry is considered to be the antioxidant “superstar.” When German scientists measured antioxidants in different fruits and vegetables, some acai levels ranked so high they were off the charts and could only be estimated. This is important because high levels of antioxidants have been shown to protect against free radicals and support normal blood sugar levels.

There are many more to choose from. And if keeping your brain from the aging effects of blood sugar problems is important to you, give them all a try.

Sources:

New study reveals blood sugar control is a key factor in slowing brain aging, highlighting the benefits of the Mediterranean diet – EurekAlert!

The post The common condition rapidly aging American’s brains appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The biggest task of someone with type 2 diabetes is to keep their blood sugar under control. The simplest way to do this is through diet.

But don’t be misled by the word simple. All that means is that the task is straightforward and easy to understand.

But something that’s simple isn’t always easy. In fact, living with type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming at times, especially when it comes to food choices and meal planning to manage blood sugar.

Many people with type 2 diabetes struggle with making meal choices that need to align with managing their blood sugar. It can be a frustrating part of every day, at least three times a day.

Maybe you’re one of them.

If so, you’ll be happy to know that there may be a better way.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

All the focus has been on diet

If you’ve been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, there are guidelines you’ve been given to help with planning your meals:

• Limit Refined Carbohydrates: Foods like cookies, white rice, and fruit juices can lead to spikes in blood glucose. Instead opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
• Incorporate Heart-Healthy Fats. Adding foods such as avocados, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish to your diet can help support your heart and overall well-being. The important thing to know is that there’s no one-size-fits-all eating plan for someone living with type 2 diabetes.

Experts often recommend a low-carb diet as a first step because it can reliably reduce blood sugar.

For managing blood sugar, some people find it helpful to follow the Mediterranean or DASH diet. These eating patterns are rich in whole grains, legumes, and other complex carbohydrates, and can help keep blood sugar under control

A registered dietitian can help you develop an eating plan tailored to your needs. However, while it may not always be practical to work with a dietitian, it’s essential to recognize that developing meal plans and selecting the right foods can be daunting.

Now for some good news — research suggests that when you eat could be more significant than what you eat.

Peak D3^™

Gives You the Vitamin D3 You Can’t Get From Sunshine Alone!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Time-restricted eating works as well as a personalized diet

Recently, researchers at several major Australian universities have demonstrated that time-restricted eating can be just as effective at controlling blood glucose levels as individualized advice from a registered dietitian.

A group of 52 people who were managing their type 2 diabetes with oral medications was randomly divided into two groups. One started changing their diet, the other practiced time-restricted eating, where eating was limited to a nine-hour window between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

An HbA1c test was used to measure blood glucose every two months. At the end of six months, both groups had reduced blood sugar levels.

However, the difference was that people in the diet group were less likely to adhere to their plan, while those in the time-restricted group not only adjusted well to the restricted eating window but also experienced improved sleep quality and enjoyed mealtime more.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Take the pressure off

If you’re living with type 2 diabetes, it’s still important to prioritize vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, lean meat and healthy fats and limit your intake of refined carbohydrates and saturated (trans) fats.

However, trying a time-restricted eating plan may help alleviate the worry about your next meal and introduce a sense of rhythm to your daily routine.

By limiting your eating to a nine-hour window that starts in the late morning, you could help maintain steady blood sugar levels.

While it’s important to be mindful about your food choices, remember that time-restricted eating can offer a simple yet effective approach to managing your blood sugar. You’re taking important steps toward better health, and every small change makes a difference.

If you’re under the care of a physician, let him know about your plans if you decide to try time-restricted eating.

Sources:

Time-Restricted Eating Helps Control Blood Sugar in Type 2 Diabetes — Science Alert

Comparing the effects of time-restricted eating on glycaemic control in people with type 2 diabetes with standard dietetic practice: A randomised controlled trial — Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice

Time-Restricted Eating as a Nutrition Strategy for Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Feasibility Study — Nutrients

The post How to make managing blood sugar less stressful appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The gum inflammation that comes with periodontitis (gum disease) is associated with serious diseases  like heart disease, kidney disease and Alzheimer’s

But there’s an exceptionally complex relationship between gum disease and type 2 diabetes…

Periodontitis increases your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and type 2 diabetes increases your risk of developing periodontitis.

In fact, people with diabetes are three times more likely to develop periodontitis. And the higher their blood sugar is, the worse their gum disease tends to be.

But it may be able to control both conditions with one simple, everyday practice…

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

It may not be a household word, but nitric oxide has been recognized in over 130,000 published scientific papers as a vital signaling molecule that keeps blood vessels healthy so they can perform as the body needs. But as you age, your cells produce less and… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Can you gargle diabetes away?

Researchers from Japan’s Osaka University report that when people with type 2 diabetes gargled with an antiseptic mouthwash, the number of periodontitis-related bacteria decreased.

What’s more, they say some people achieved better control of their blood sugar.

“There are three highly virulent bacterial species that are linked to periodontitis, or diseases of the tissues surrounding the teeth,” explains lead author of the study, Saaya Matayoshi.

“We decided to see if we could reduce these three species — Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, and Tannerella forsythia — in patients with type 2 diabetes using a mouthwash containing the antiseptic chlorhexidine gluconate.”

The researchers took bi-monthly saliva and blood samples from 173 patients who gargled with water for the first six months, and then with the antiseptic mouthwash for the second six months.

The results were a little lackluster…

There was no overall change to HbA1c — and only younger patients had greater reductions in bacterial species and significantly better blood-sugar control with the mouthwash.

So is it worth a try if you’re on the mature side?

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Not so fast: Mouthwash may do more harm

No matter what your age, you may want to take those findings with a grain of salt…

In 2018, a much larger study analyzed data from 1,206 overweight and obese adults. Those who reported using mouthwash at least twice daily were 55 percent more likely to develop prediabetes or diabetes over three years.

Researchers suspect that the chemical compounds in mouthwash that kill bad bacteria also destroy “good” mouth bacteria that are needed to form nitric oxide, a naturally occurring chemical compound that helps regulate insulin, dilate blood vessels and support your cardiovascular system.

These findings were supported by two other previous studies as well.

Instead, keep your mouth healthy by staying on top of dental visits. Holistic dentists are more aware of the strong connection between oral health and its impact on the body and may guide you to practices and products that won’t do more harm than good.

You can also search online for a mouthwash that doesn’t contain alcohol or harsh ingredients like chlorhexidine gluconate.

And there is another powerful factor that could douse the relationship between periodontitis and diabetes — vitamin D.

A University of Toronto study found that people who had periodontitis and low levels of vitamin D had a diabetes risk that was “greater than the sum of the individual effects.”

And since that research from Toronto, we’ve also learned that supplementing vitamin D was associated with a 15 percent risk reduction for developing type 2 diabetes in adults with prediabetes.

It’s estimated that up to 40 percent of the U.S. population is deficient in Vitamin D, and older adults are most at risk. So make sure you’re getting enough.

Sources:

Gargling away the bad bacteria in type 2 diabetes — Eureka Alert

Effects of mouthwash on periodontal pathogens and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus — Scientific Reports

Statistics about diabetes — American Diabetes Association

Low levels of vitamin D3 and periodontitis may trigger the onset of Type 2 diabetes — Medical Express

The post The weird connection between mouthwash, gum disease and diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But what happens if you become hard of hearing?

Your friend must knock harder for you to hear them at the door.

This is kind of what happens to your body as you develop insulin resistance.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

Supports Improved Oxygen Levels… Healthy Circulation… and Balanced Hormones for Better Overall Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

What is insulin resistance?

Insulin is a hormone secreted by the pancreas that is crucial for converting food into energy or storing that energy for later use.

When your blood glucose levels rise after a meal, the pancreas responds by producing insulin. The insulin, in turn, helps sugar enter your cells so that the amount of sugar in your bloodstream falls back to a normal range.

The “knock at the door” is insulin telling your insulin-sensitive muscle, liver and fat cells that glucose needs to get in.

But changes in the body can cause those cells to become hard of hearing. They don’t respond as effectively as they should to take up or store glucose from your bloodstream.

What does the pancreas do? It produces even more insulin.

Your blood sugar level might be normal, but you need way more insulin to get it into a normal range because the cells have lost their sensitivity. At this point, you are insulin-resistant.

Eventually, the pancreas can’t make enough insulin to knock as loudly as it needs to, and blood sugar levels start to rise. At this point, if things are not corrected, prediabetes, then type 2 diabetes could be around the corner.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Who is at risk for insulin resistance?

Genes and older age can make us more prone to insulin resistance, but two lifestyle factors — excess belly fat and physical inactivity — are considered the two main contributing factors.

Other factors that may increase the risk for insulin resistance include:

• A diet high in processed, high-carbohydrate and high-fat foods requires more insulin. These foods tend to be high glycemic index foods.
• A family history of type 2 diabetes.
• Having high triglycerides, high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol.

Some hormonal conditions are associated with insulin resistance, including:

Cushing’s syndrome: Cortisol, best known as the stress hormone, is necessary in the conversion of blood sugar to energy. However excess cortisol (which can occur due to chronic stress or Adrenal fatigue) can counteract insulin and cause insulin resistance.

Hypothyroidism (or low thyroid): The thyroid plays a big role in regulating your metabolism. When it doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it slows glucose metabolism which can lead to insulin resistance.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): People with PCOS are more likely to be overweight and have metabolic syndrome. That sets a great many of them up for insulin resistance.

Hypertension, heart disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are also linked to insulin resistance.

Some drugs can set you up for insulin resistance, including glucocorticoids (prednisone is one), some antipsychotics and some HIV medicines.

What are the early signs of insulin resistance?

• A waistline over 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women
• Blood pressure readings of 130/80 or higher
• A fasting glucose level over 100 mg/dL
• A fasting triglyceride level over 150 mg/dL
• A HDL cholesterol level under 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women
• Skin tags
• Patches of dark, velvety skin called acanthosis nigricans
• Eye changes that can lead to diabetes-related retinopathy
• Feeling hungry or tired all the time
• Extreme thirst
• Irregular menstrual periods

Peak Thyroid Support^™

Specially Formulated with Essential Nutrients to Support Healthy Thyroid Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Get your insulin sensitivity back

Make no mistake: insulin resistance is a sign that your metabolism is seriously out of whack.

If your pancreas is showing signs of exhaustion, the sooner you start an all-out effort to get your metabolism back in line, the better. Starting here:

Lose a few pounds. Excess weight, especially belly fat, tops the list of causes of insulin resistance. If you need help finding the energy to exercise, enlist the help of the antioxidant, PQQ, found to go after visceral fat while delivering the energy the body needs to exercise.

Exercise more. Many studies have also found that resistance training can increase insulin sensitivity among men and women with or without diabetes.

Eat healthy foods.  Add more soluble fiber and colorful fruits (like berries) and vegetables to your diet. The more colorful the better, as these contain antioxidants that have been shown to help with weight loss and curb insulin resistance. Cut back on high glycemic foods like carbs (which stimulate excess insulin production), sugars and processed starches. Also, eat much less red meat.

Keep your vitamin D levels healthy. Several studies have connected low vitamin D levels to insulin sensitivity.

Boost CoQ10 levels. Research has also shown that low CoQ10 levels correlate to insulin resistance.

Get more sleep. Give up night owl habits, like staying up late and getting less sleep. Getting more sleep can help reverse its effects.

Reduce stress. Ongoing stress keeps your cortisol level high, which stimulates the breakdown of nutrients and increases blood sugar.

Sources:

What Is Insulin Resistance and How Do You Know if You Have It? — NY Times

Insulin Resistance — Cleveland Clinic

The post Insulin resistance: Early signs and ditching the diabetes danger appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Not only does staying active keep your brain from shrinking, but it’s also been shown to stimulate the growth of cells in the hippocampus — the part of the brain responsible for learning and memory.

Now, researchers are finding there’s even more to the story when it comes to how exercise can help you stay sharp by improving the ability of insulin to act on the brain.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

At middle age, you start feeling changes in your body you may chalk up to aging: energy levels hit rock bottom, weight soars, muscles become soft, skin becomes wrinkled and slack and desire tanks. You may feel past your prime — but science says that’s wrong! MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Specialized cells and insulin action in the brain

The study focused on the role of neuronal extracellular vesicles (NEVs), specialized cells released by the brain.

NEVs, which scientists once considered “cell dust,” have recently been shown to be vital to healthy brain function. They facilitate the transport of key molecules such as proteins between cells, including those involved in insulin sensitivity.

So why would insulin sensitivity matter when we’re talking about the brain?

According to Steven Malin, lead author of the study, “If insulin is insufficient in the brain, that means not only will brain cells become potentially dysfunctional, but also they may fail to interact with each other properly. It’s like playing the game telephone with a friend. At some point, the message gets lost when the brain becomes insulin resistant.”

Insulin resistance is a step that can lead to prediabetes and eventually type 2 diabetes. Its impact on the brain is why previous researchers coined the term “type 3 diabetes.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, type 3 diabetes occurs when neurons in the brain cannot respond to insulin, which they need for basic tasks such as memory and learning.

In fact, some researchers believe insulin deficiency is central to the cognitive decline that occurs in Alzheimer’s patients.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Your brain on exercise boosts neuronal extracellular vesicles

And that’s where exercising comes in…

Malin’s research team gathered a group of 21 volunteers around the age of 60 who had prediabetes. Throughout a two-week trial, they engaged in 12 individual, supervised, 60-minute sessions of moderate to high intensity exercise.

Before and after training, the participants ingested a glucose drink. The researchers then collected blood samples from the participants at the start and end of their exercise sessions. The blood samples showed that the number of NEVs carrying proteins involved in insulin sensitivity increased after each exercise session.

They say that because these specialized cells involved in how the body responds to insulin are activated in the brain after exercise, physical activity may directly improve brain function and even help ward off dementia.

So, how can you get the most bang for your brain’s buck out of exercise?

While this research delved into the effects of an hour-long workout, other studies have shown that you can put in less time and still receive big brain benefits.

One study even showed that you can grab a 14% boost in brain power with just 10 minutes of exercise.

This could include taking a brisk walk, hopping on your ,exercise bike, jumping rope or even putting on your favorite tunes and dancing around the house.

Additional research determined that the minimum amount of exercise you need in a six-month period to improve your cognitive abilities is 52 hours.

That’s less than nine hours a month of exercise to boost your brain — or a little over two hours per week.

Not bad for a bit of assurance that you’re working at keeping dementia away.

Sources:

Exercise improves brain function, possibly reducing dementia risk – ScienceDaily

5 ways to pump up your brain power in 10 minutes – Easy Health Options

They did the math: Here’s how much to exercise to slow brain aging – Easy Health Options

Reversing age-related brain shrinkage is easier than you think – Easy Health Options

At 47 or 87 your brain can make new cells (here’s how) – Easy Health Options

The post Exercise reduces ‘insulin resistant’ dementia risk appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

I can remember as a kid asking my mom over and over to buy strawberries at the grocery store all spring, only to be told they weren’t ripe enough yet and wouldn’t be sweet.

Well, I can tell you that the moment was certainly sweet when she did buy that first carton.

What’s even sweeter is the news that eating strawberries isn’t just enjoyable, it could be one of the healthiest things you can do for your heart and your blood sugar.

That’s because scientists from the Illinois Institute of Technology have found that strawberries not only have the power to improve glucose control, but they also could reduce your risk of heart disease by up to eight times.

Peak Digestion^™

Gas, stomach upset, loose bowels, stomach cramps, headache and fatigue. These are all symptoms of a problem more common than you may think: Gluten intolerance. It’s often linked to autoimmune issues. Instead of the body digesting the protein, it treats gluten as an… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Improving dilation of the arteries and blood sugar issues

Their study focused on how eating different amounts of strawberries could affect blood sugar, as well as flow-mediated dilation or FMD, which impacts our arteries.

FMD is basically a measure of the dilation or widening of an artery when blood flow increases. It’s used to determine blood vessel health and endothelial function and offers a window into future heart disease risk.

So, how did strawberries stack up against heart and blood sugar problems?

In their study of overweight men and women, the scientists found that eating strawberries had a significantly positive impact on both FMD and blood glucose control.

And the more strawberries, the better the results!

According to the researchers, eating strawberries daily for four weeks supported healthy blood sugar levels and dose-dependently reduced cardiovascular disease risk by eight times compared to the control group.

“A diet low in fruit is among the top three risk factors for cardiovascular disease and diabetes,” said co-researcher Britt Burton-Freeman, Ph.D. “Adding as little as one cup of strawberries a day to your diet may show beneficial effects on your cardiovascular health.”

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

At middle age, you start feeling changes in your body you may chalk up to aging: energy levels hit rock bottom, weight soars, muscles become soft, skin becomes wrinkled and slack and desire tanks. You may feel past your prime — but science says that’s wrong! MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Strawberry power without the pesticide worries

Clearly, adding strawberries to your daily diet could help keep your heart and your blood sugar healthy.

And if that weren’t enough, research has shown there are even more reasons to reach for these sweet berries…

Scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst found that strawberries reduced colon pain and inflammation.

And research from the University of Cincinnati found that daily strawberry consumption could help reduce the risk of dementia.

However, there is one warning to remember…

Strawberries are considered to be the king of the dirty fruits.

So be sure to check out these tips on eating this delicious but dirty fruit.

Finally, in addition to strawberries, don’t forget how powerful other berries can be when it comes to battling back heart disease and blood sugar problems.

Blueberries (and other purple fruits and veggies) are packed with acylated anthocyanins, which have been found to reduce the risk of diabetes by affecting energy metabolism and the gut microbiota.

And these anthocyanins can also help to keep cardiovascular disease and obesity at bay.

Sources:

New study shows strawberries may lower cardiovascular disease risk and improve glucose control – EurekAlert!

The post The strawberry solution to heart disease and diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

That’s because microvascular diseases like retinopathy, known as diabetic vision loss, and nephropathy, which can lead to kidney failure, are major contributors to complications associated with T2D.

It’s a significant reason your doctor will recommend you follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly.

But if your doctor hasn’t also talked to you about your sleep, you could be missing a crucial step in supporting the health of your arteries.

That’s because, according to research presented at the Annual Meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes, sleep plays a vital role in keeping arteries healthy, especially in people with T2D.

And too much or too little could set you on the road for arterial damage, and all that comes with it…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The Goldilocks principle of sleep duration

Researchers aimed to explore the relationship between sleep duration and the presence of microvascular disease in individuals newly diagnosed with T2D.

They recruited 396 participants and measured their sleep duration for 10 nights. The classification for sleep duration was split into three groups:

• Short – Less than seven hours of sleep
• Optimal – Getting seven to nine hours a night
• Long – Sleeping nine hours or more each night

Microvascular damage was also assessed among participants and compared to their sleep habits.

The researchers found a true Goldilocks principle at work: Those who slept not too little, not too much, but just the right amount were the least likely to experience poor arterial health.

The numbers showed that while the prevalence of microvascular damage was 38% in the short sleep group and 31% in the long sleepers, it was only 18% in people who found the right balance and slept optimally.

When everything was calculated, this meant that short sleep duration was significantly associated with a 2.6 times higher risk of microvascular disease than optimal sleep duration.

And sleeping too long each night was associated with a 2.3 times increased risk of microvascular disease compared to optimal sleep duration.

Microvascular/sleep risk increases with age

Even worse, the researchers found that the dangers of sleeping too much or too little went up as a person with diabetes gets older.

The research showed that for those under 62 years old with T2D, short sleep duration increased the risk of microvascular damage by 23%.

However, those 63 and older saw their risk for microvascular damage climb by 5.7 times compared to optimal sleep duration.

The researchers’ conclusion?

“Age amplifies the association between short sleep duration and microvascular disease, suggesting increased vulnerability among older individuals.”

Peak Cardio Platinum^™

Clinically-Tested Nutrients Help Arteries and Cardiovascular Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Finding your sleep balance

So, if you’re living with T2D and want to keep your arterial health on track, do what Goldilocks did and find the sleep sweet spot.

A few tips to help include:

• Go to bed and get up at the same time each day – Sticking to a sleep schedule can help you regulate your patterns and get the proper amount of rest.
• Banish devices from the bedroom – Phones and tablets can be a distraction and a light source that can keep you from getting the rest you need.
• No sugar or caffeine after 6:00 p.m. – Caffeine and refined sugar can lead to short-term energy bursts that make your mind race when you want to sleep or wake you up once you’ve fallen asleep.
• Don’t exercise late – Exercise is best in the morning or afternoon. If possible, skip physical activity that stimulates the body after 7 p.m.
• Try natural sleep aids – Supplements like melatonin can help you get your zzz’s and provide numerous other health benefits. L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, is also a great option and a powerhouse for fighting off the stress that keeps you up at night.
• Consider supporting the health of your arteries with vitamin K2. You can read more about its protective effects here.

Sources:

Study finds short and long sleep duration associated with blood vessel damage in those recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes – EurekAlert!

The post Sleep impacts microvascular complications in T2D appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

And it wasn’t long ago that a review of 50 studies proved what most of us have known all along… that the tart little berries really do kick UTIs to the curb.

But then there was that research that found dried cranberry powder decreased LDL (bad) cholesterol and improved heart and blood vessel function, brain blood flow and memory.

It turns out that may have just been the tip of the iceberg for what we’re learning cranberries can do for cardiovascular and metabolic health…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Cranberries bring out the best in your gut

Mounting evidence indicates cranberries have tons of polyphenols and other bioactives known to improve gut health, strengthen the immune system, keep hearts healthy and balance blood sugar.

In a more recent study, researchers in Canada sought to confirm these findings by administering a cranberry extract capsule (the equivalent of ingesting about half a cup of fresh cranberries) to 40 participants in the morning and evening. The researchers collected blood, urine and stool samples at the beginning of the experiment and after four days of consuming the cranberry supplements.

The results reinforced the findings that cranberry extracts appear to improve intestinal microbiota and help prevent cardiometabolic disease — an umbrella term that includes:

• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Insulin resistance
• Diabetes
• and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

But what’s really shocking is beneficial effects were reported after only four days of use.

In addition to their high polyphenol content, cranberries contain high concentrations of oligosaccharides, small fibers believed to contribute to their bioactivity.

The research team showed that the polyphenols and oligosaccharides in cranberry extract boost Bifidobacterium, a bacterium in the gut associated with a reduced risk of cardiometabolic diseases.

“Normally, these bacteria are stimulated by dietary fiber consumption,” says Jacob Lessard-Lord, a postdoctoral fellow at the Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF). “We observed the same effect with cranberry extract with a dose almost 20 times lower.”

The cranberry extract was also found to stimulate Akkermansia muciniphila, a bacterium that helps reduce inflammation of the intestinal mucosa and strengthen the intestinal barrier. This could help counter the harmful effects of a Western diet, which compromises the intestinal barrier’s integrity and can lead to leaky gut.

Peak Blood Flow^™

Supports Healthy Circulation to your Heart, Brain, Lungs, Eyes and Extremities!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

“Alteration of the intestinal barrier allows the passage of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) derived from the intestinal microbiota, known as metabolic endotoxemia, and is a crucial factor in the onset and progression of inflammation and metabolic diseases,” says Yves Desjardins, research lead and professor at Université Laval.

But when Akkermansia muciniphila bacterium and Bifidobacterium are stimulated, the microbiota regenerates and recreates an anti-inflammatory environment. This strengthens the connections between cells in the intestinal barrier, reinforcing it.

Cranberries + healthy bacteria = less chronic disease

The researchers plan to explore the long-term effects of the cranberry extract. But for now, there seems to be enough evidence supporting the addition of cranberries to your diet.

Unfortunately, it’s almost impossible to eat raw cranberries, given how tart they can be. And a lot of commercially prepared cranberry juice cocktails, cranberry sauces and cranberry fruit snacks are loaded with added sugar. And we know how sugar can ruin a good thing.

If you aren’t a fan of the taste of cranberries, a cranberry extract supplement may be the right choice for you or a dried powder mix (like those used in some studies).

If you want to give your gut an extra boost and protect against cardiometabolic diseases, make sure to eat foods rich in Bifidobacterium, like yogurt and cheese. Akkermansia muciniphila is a little harder to come by, as it’s not really present in foods. However, you can encourage your gut to make more Akkermansia muciniphila by consuming fiber-rich foods and foods high in polyphenols. Luckily, some of these foods have both, including:

• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Apples
• Black beans
• Chicory root
• Almonds
• And of course cranberries

Sources:

Cranberry extracts could boost microbiota and counter cardiometabolic diseases —  Université Laval

Short term supplementation with cranberry extract modulates gut microbiota in human and displays a bifidogenic effect — NPJ Biofilms and Microbiomes

Cranberries – Cup Measurements — CookItSimply

The post What cranberries can do for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and more appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

If you are, you may be aware that the metabolic condition can impact other areas of your health, increasing risks for heart attacks, strokes and aneurysms.

But fewer people know that having T2D can set you on the road to cognitive decline by kickstarting mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional phase from cognitive changes in normal aging to those typically found in dementia.

Here’s how and why it happens…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

It’s all about the white matter

Your brain is made of grey matter and white matter.

Grey matter is where the processing of sensation, perception, voluntary movement, learning, speech and cognition occurs. It’s where information is gathered.

White matter’s role is to facilitate communication between grey matter and the rest of your body, allowing you to use that information to function in the world.

So, where does diabetes come in?

White matter deteriorates faster with diabetes

In a long-term study led by scientists at Johns Hopkins University, 185 participants were followed for up to 27 years. All had unimpaired cognition at the start.

By the end of the trial, 60 people had progressed to MCI. Eight of those went on to develop dementia.

And T2D was among the factors associated with higher rates of deterioration in white matter over time, as well as MCI…

• Brain scans throughout the study revealed that participants with the most significant declines in white matter had an 86 percent greater risk of developing mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
• There was also a 48% higher risk for MCI if spinal fluid revealed an imbalance between two forms of amyloid beta proteins linked to the formation of Alzheimer’s signature plaques.
• And in participants who had both T2D and an imbalance in amyloid beta proteins, the risk for progressing to MCI increased by 55%!

“These findings highlight that white matter volume changes are closely associated with cognitive function in aging, suggesting that white matter degeneration may play a crucial role in cognitive decline,” write the authors of the study, led by neuroscientists at Johns Hopkins University in the United States.

“As insulin resistance plays a critical role in the formation of amyloid plaques, diabetes may promote Alzheimer’s disease pathology, resulting in an earlier progression from normal cognition to MCI.”

While more research is needed, these results aren’t totally surprising, given the fact that some drugs that treat T2D have been linked to a 35 percent lower risk of dementia in patients.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The importance of controlling insulin

Insulin resistance can lead to a condition known as hyperinsulinemia, which is when your pancreas creates too much insulin.

On its own, hyperinsulinemia is not diabetes. But it is the beginning of the path. If you have insulin resistance, there are steps you can take to change your disease trajectory.

If you have T2D, it’s still possible to save your brain. Manage the condition well, and with your doctor’s guidance and lifestyle changes, studies have shown that, with the right diet, it’s possible to send T2D into remission.

A few more helpful suggestions:

• Ditch soda at all costs. It causes your gut to produce chemicals directly connected to the onset of T2D.
• Nutrition. Make sure you get adequate levels of these micronutrients missing in most with T2D.
• Swap unhealthy snacks for fruits that beat back insulin resistance.
• Exercise. Not only will it help with T2D, but it can reduce Alzheimer’s plaques by 76%.

Sources:

Indicators of an aging brain: A 20-year study — Medical Xpress

Type 2 diabetes linked to accelerated brain shrinkage, study reveals — Science Alert

Acceleration of brain atrophy and progression from normal cognition to mild cognitive impairment — JAMA Network

Type 2 diabetes drug linked to 35% lower dementia risk in patients — Science Alert

The post The common condition accelerating Alzheimer’s appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

One of the less-talked-about impacts of diabetes is its effect on the health of skeletal muscle, which accounts for more than 50% of the body’s weight.

And when diabetes and obesity coexist, as they often do — experts call that “diabesity” — the damage to skeletal muscle can be profound…

In fact, diabesity is one reason that exercise is more challenging for people with diabetes.

Diabesity induces stress and dysfunction in skeletal muscle at the cellular level, including the mitochondria. This damages muscle mass and structure and impairs metabolism and function.

Investigators are exploring ways to counteract this impact. And they may have found one in a hormone more people may be familiar with as a popular sleep supplement…

Peak Longevity Platinum^™

Promotes Cellular Energy, Supports Heart & Brain Functions!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Melatonin protects against muscle damage

There are three types of muscle fibers:

• Slow twitch, also known as red fibers due to the large number of mitochondria they possess;
• Fast twitch, or white fibers;
• and intermediate.

Every muscle has a specific proportion of these fiber types, which vary and change depending on the type of movement being performed. For example, during short periods of intense muscular activity, white fibers with glycolytic (or anaerobic) metabolism are dominant, while during prolonged periods of low-intensity muscular activity, red fibers with oxidative (or aerobic) metabolism predominate. Red (slow) fibers are thought to be more energy-efficient than white (fast) fibers.

In diabesity, the necessary proportion of fiber types goes out the window…

Previous research indicated melatonin could be helpful, so an international team of researchers led by the University of Granada (UGR) administered melatonin to obese and diabetic rodents for 12 weeks to gauge its impact on muscle health.

What they discovered was fascinating…

Melatonin was able to restore the healthy proportion of these fibers, increasing oxidative fibers and reducing glycolytic fibers — ultimately reversing the effects of “diabesity.”

In other words, it improved the muscle’s ability to burn fat (reducing fat accumulation) and produce energy.

What’s even more interesting is that melatonin showed effects similar to those of prolonged aerobic activity, especially improving mitochondrial function and regulating calcium levels in cell compartments. This reduces cellular stress and prevents programmed cell death.

“We discovered that melatonin restores calcium levels in the mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum, which helps to reduce cell damage,” says study lead Dr. Ahmad Agil, a professor of pharmacology at UGR.

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Melatonin as ‘diabesity’ therapy in humans

These findings open up a new frontier for the use of melatonin, not only to improve muscle energy but as an innovative therapy to combat “diabesity.”

“Our results reinforce the idea that melatonin could have therapeutic applications in metabolic diseases, improving the muscle health of patients,” Dr. Agil says.

However, the researchers stress that clinical studies in humans are needed to confirm these results and determine optimal dosing.

“If we can demonstrate its effectiveness in humans, we could have an innovative treatment that would improve the lives of millions of people,” Dr. Agil says. Until then, he adds, maintaining a healthy, active and balanced lifestyle during the day and proper rest at night is key to preserving muscle health and preventing the adverse effects of diabesity.

If you want to try adding a melatonin supplement to your health regimen, the common recommendation is 1 to 2 milligrams about 30 minutes before bedtime. You can work your way up to 5 milligrams, but it’s important that you don’t take more than 10 milligrams at a time, or you could risk side effects that include drowsiness, headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, vomiting, irritability and waking up in the night.

If you have kidney or liver problems, it may take you longer to clear melatonin, so your upper limit may be even lower than 10 milligrams. Talk to your doctor before starting a melatonin supplement so you can get advice on the right amount for you.

Sources:

Melatonin protects against muscle damage and restores the proportion of fibers altered by obesity and diabetes — EurekAlert!

Melatonin Ameliorates Organellar Calcium Homeostasis, Improving Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Mediated Apoptosis in the Vastus Lateralis Muscle of Both Sexes of Obese Diabetic Rats — Antioxidants

Melatonin Dosage: How Much Should You Take — Sleep Foundation

Melatonin and your sleep: Is it safe, what are the side effects and how does it work? — UC Davis Health

The post The sleep supplement that combats ‘diabesity’ appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

If you recognize the signs early enough, insulin resistance can be halted before you get labeled with a chronic disease. It usually precedes the onset of type 2 diabetes by 10 to 15 years, which is plenty of time to reverse that trajectory.

But that’s not your only risk. Insulin resistance is also linked to obesity, cardiovascular disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), metabolic syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Lifestyle modification is key to improving insulin resistance, with diet being a common starting point. But recent research indicates one food may be especially beneficial at controlling this modern-day scourge…

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Mangoes mangle insulin resistance

Researchers at the Illinois Institute of Technology studied 48 adults ages 20 to 60 to determine how eating fresh mangoes compared to a calorie-matched portion of Italian ice affected inflammation and insulin sensitivity in overweight and obese adults with chronic low-grade inflammation.

According to Wikipedia, Italian ice is a semi-frozen treat made of finely granulated ice and fruit concentrates, juices or purees. Sounds healthy enough, right?

One group of participants ate two cups of fresh mango, or about 100 calories worth, daily. In contrast, the other group ate 100 calories of Italian ice.

Beyond the mangoes or Italian ices, participants were instructed to follow their regular diet and lifestyle. Study tests and food pick-up occurred five times throughout the four-week study, and compliance was monitored through participants’ three-day food records.

What happened next was astonishing…

The participants who ate mangoes experienced significant reductions in HOMA-IR-measured insulin resistance. Not only that, they showed a substantial improvement in beta-cell function, the ability of the pancreas to produce and release insulin to manage normal glucose concentrations. Beta-cell function was measured using the disposition index (DI), a marker of how effectively the body regulates blood sugar levels.

After four weeks, the mango group also had significantly lower insulin concentrations in response to an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) compared to their levels at the beginning of the study. No changes were observed in the control group.

“Managing blood glucose isn’t just about monitoring blood sugar levels — it’s about improving insulin sensitivity,” says Dr. Indika Edirisinghe, a professor at the Illinois Institute of Technology.

“Our study suggests that adding fresh mangos to the diet can be a simple, enjoyable way for people who are overweight or have obesity to support better insulin function and reduce type 2 diabetes risk.”

Interestingly, despite eating foods with the same amount of calories, body composition remained stable in the mango group, while the control group experienced a slight but significant weight increase. The findings also show markers of inflammation and glucose levels weren’t significantly different between the two groups at the end of the study. This indicates that mangoes are a heart-healthy swap for calorically comparable sweet treats.

“The improvement in insulin sensitivity in the mango group, without changes in body weight, is noteworthy — which counters misconceptions about mangoes’ natural sugar content and impact on obesity and diabetes,” Edirisinghe says.

“These findings support previous research showing that eating mango does not lead to weight gain, and while the exact mechanism is still unknown, the role of improved antioxidant status from mango consumption may be the mediating factor on blood glucose control.”

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Enjoying mangoes and good health

The results of this study further reinforce the importance of fresh fruit, particularly mangoes, as part of a heart-healthy lifestyle that supports blood sugar control, weight management and overall wellness.

Previous research has delved into the differences between consuming sugars in whole fruit versus fruit juices, which is ultimately the comparison this study made by pitting Italian ice against mangoes.

In one such study, the researchers stated, “As well as being high in vitamins and minerals, fruits are a great source of phytochemicals which may increase insulin sensitivity, and fiber which helps regulate the release of sugar into the blood and also helps people feel fuller for longer.”

Additionally, most fruits typically have a low glycemic index, meaning the fruit’s sugar is digested and absorbed into the body slower.

If you want to swap out mangoes for less healthy sweet treats, the first step is to learn to tell when a mango is ripe. Here are some tips from Mango.org:

• Don’t focus on color. Because mango varieties come in several colors, shapes and sizes, color is not the best indicator of ripeness.
• A ripe mango will give slightly when you squeeze it gently. A medium-ripe mango will be somewhat firm, and an unripe mango will be very firm to the touch. You can enjoy unripe mangoes, but their flavor will be more sour-tart than sweet.
• Sometimes, you can tell a mango is ripe by smelling the stem. If there’s a fruity aroma, your mango is ready to enjoy.

Cutting up mangoes can be tricky. Follow this tutorial here for tips to make it easy. Enjoy your mango as-is or mix them in a fruit salad, smoothie or yogurt. They also make a delicious addition to fish or chicken dishes.

Sources:

New study: Eating mangos daily shown to improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control — EurekAlert!

Mango Consumption Is Associated with Increased Insulin Sensitivity in Participants with Overweight/Obesity and Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation — Nutrients

How To Choose A Mango — Mango.org

The post The fruity swap that beats back insulin resistance appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But today, you’re going to hear a slightly different story. You’ll want to pay close attention if you’re trying to lose weight.

You’ll hear about how certain processed foods can play an important role in helping you achieve that goal — with some added health benefits.

So, if you find it hard to follow a healthy whole foods diet, abhor frequent trips to the grocery store or market for fresh produce and enjoy the convenience of processed food — go for these and watch the weight fall off…

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

At birth your body’s pH is balanced. But starting immediately acid waste builds up and starts to shift your pH level from healthy alkaline to unhealthy acid. If your body is too acidic it provides the right terrain for germs to thrive. To add insult to injury… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Plant-based processed foods boost metabolism and weight loss

Dr. Hana Kahleova is the director of clinical research for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

She and an international group of medical researchers have determined that plant-based foods, regardless of their level of processing, are effective for significant weight loss.

“Our research shows that choosing a bagel instead of bacon for breakfast or a veggie burger instead of a hamburger for dinner is the best option if you are looking to lose weight,” says Dr. Kahleova.

“Filling your plate with plant-based foods — even if they are considered ultra-processed like soy milk and vegan meat and yogurt alternatives — instead of animal products can have a positive impact on your weight and overall health.”

Dr. Kahleova and her team looked at the results of a study where participants who were overweight were randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group for 16 weeks.

During that time, the intervention group followed a low-fat, plant-based diet with no limit on calories, while the control group did not change their diets.

The group following a vegan diet lost an average of 13 pounds compared with an insignificant weight loss in the control group. They also showed greater improvement in their postprandial (after-meal) metabolism.

These findings suggest that replacing animal products with low-fat plant-based foods — even those that are considered processed, such as beans and cereal — may be an effective weight loss strategy.

Peak DIM^™

If you’re having trouble maintaining a healthy weight, feeling sluggish, are unable to regulate your mood, or struggle with your sex drive, you could be experiencing a hormone problem called estrogen dominance. Both men and women experience… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

An easier way to switch to plant-based eating

There are other benefits to eating a plant-based diet, and it doesn’t take long for them to show up, either.

In a study where pairs of twins were assigned either a vegan diet or a diet that included both plant and animal foods, it took only 4 weeks for the vegan dieters to lower their LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels.

In that same time period, they lowered their insulin levels and lost weight, which improved their heart health. But this twin study emphasized vegetables and fruits, legumes and whole grains free of sugars and refined starches.

Maybe if following a plant-based diet is new to you, but you’d like to try it to lose weight and improve blood sugar, reaching for plant-based processed food could be an easy way to ease into it.

But don’t cheat yourself by not adding in some fresh fruit and vegetables eventually. Take mangoes, for instance, which have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and lower inflammation and glucose levels.

If you need to wean off of eating meat, you could try a green Mediterranean diet where fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains make up the bulk of your meals.

And you won’t feel a bit deprived! You can enjoy smoothies with healthy ingredients like blueberries, leafy greens, bananas, yogurt and avocados on this diet. Or try some veggie chili with beans, chickpeas and other vegetables — no meat needed!

Enjoy experimenting with Mediterranean spices that have special anti-diabetic benefits, and you’ll find yourself enjoying plant-based eating in no time!

Sources:

Swapping animal products for plant-based foods—no matter how processed—leads to weight loss, finds new study — Eureka Alert

Effect of a Low-Fat Vegan Diet on Body Weight, Insulin Sensitivity, Postprandial Metabolism, and Intramyocellular and Hepatocellular Lipid Levels in Overweight AdultsA Randomized Clinical Trial — JAMA Network Open

Vegan diet, processed foods, and body weight: a secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial — Nutrition and Metabolism

The post The best processed foods for weight loss appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

In fact, not only can yo-yo dieting damage your heart, but it also comes with additional health warnings to be wary of, including:

• Increased risk of diabetes
• Higher risk of gallstones
• Poor gut health
• Depression

Now, research is linking one more health danger to body-weight cycling. It’s one that anyone living with type 1 diabetes needs to be aware of…

Weight cycling and kidney disease

The study published in the Endocrine Society’s Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism examined six years of body-weight data for more than 1,400 people who participated in the Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) or the Epidemiology of Diabetes Interventions and Complications (EDIC) study.

Type 1 diabetes has long been considered a disease of lean individuals, but, as the authors noted, the prevalence of obesity is rising among those with type 1 diabetes, mirroring the increase in the general population.

The researchers specifically delved into the effect of weight fluctuation on six different criteria for kidney function decline and progression toward chronic kidney disease in this group.

Peak D3^™

When you step out into the sunlight, your body begins the process of making vitamin D. But getting the ideal amount can be difficult because some of us can’t effectively absorb it. That’s just one of many reasons the vitamin D deficiency is an epidemic… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Here’s what they found…

The scientists determined that people who experienced more significant weight fluctuations suffered from a 40% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which measures how well the kidneys filter toxins from the blood.

Results also showed that those with greater weight fluctuations were more likely to experience moderately to severely increased albuminuria. This occurs when there are abnormally high levels of a protein known as albumin in the urine. Larger amounts occur in the urine of people with kidney disease.

Additionally, according to the researchers, in all of the indices they examined, similar findings of kidney disease were confirmed.

“We showed that high body-weight variability is associated with increased risk of different outcomes of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) progressions in people with type 1 diabetes, independently of traditional DKD risk factors,” said lead author Marion Camoin, M.D.

People with Type 1 should focus on the long-term

This is the first study to show a link between yo-yo dieting and kidney events in people with type 1 diabetes, according to the authors.

However, the mechanisms linking body-weight cycling to increased renal risks are still not fully understood.

The researchers hypothesize that insulin therapy, which is necessary to treat type 1 diabetes, is a contributing factor to body-weight cycling. Others have theorized that body-weight cycling leads to added strain on the heart and contributes to kidney and vascular damage.

It may be safest to work on weight loss with an expert in type 1 diabetes. That’s because first and foremost, managing insulin levels is a priority.

According to experts on type 1 diabetes, weight gain can be a common result of managing T1D due to:

• taking too much insulin and eating to match your insulin
• treating multiple hypos daily/weekly
• inactivity due to fear of highs and lows
• over-consumption of calories when trying to eat low carb (these foods are often higher in fat and therefore higher in calories).

To lower the risks of yo-yo dieting and the occurrence of kidney disease, the study authors suggest that “Strategies aimed at weight reduction in people with type 1 diabetes should focus on promoting long-term weight maintenance, as weight stability may have a positive impact on health outcomes.”

Sources:

Yo-yo dieting may significantly increase kidney disease risk in people with type 1 diabetes — EurekAlert!

What Happens to Your Body When You Yo-Yo Diet — WebMD

Consequences of Weight Cycling: An Increase in Disease Risk? — NIH

The Long-Term Effects Of Yo-Yo Dieting — Forbes

The post Type 1 diabetes: weight loss and kidney disease risk appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But the truth is, your immune system does a lot more than fight off viruses and bacteria.

In fact, research has proven that the immune system is involved in preventing depression, decreasing pain sensitivity, reducing fibromyalgia and even helping burn body fat.

Having exceptional immunity has even been tied to exceptional aging.

Yet, we are learning this is still just the tip of the iceberg…

According to a study published in the journal Science, our immune system is even tied to blood sugar control — potentially opening up new approaches for managing conditions like diabetes, obesity and cancer.

Peak D3^™

When you step out into the sunlight, your body begins the process of making vitamin D. But getting the ideal amount can be difficult because some of us can’t effectively absorb it. That’s just one of many reasons the vitamin D deficiency is an epidemic… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The missing piece of the blood sugar puzzle

For decades, blood sugar regulation was tied primarily to the actions of two hormones produced in the pancreas: insulin and glucagon. While insulin lowers blood sugar by boosting the uptake of glucose into cells, glucagon elevates it by triggering the release of glucose from the liver.

Together, these two processes worked at keeping blood sugar at a healthy balance.

However, scientists at the Immunophysiology Lab at the Champalimaud Foundation suspected there was more to the story and that the immune system could hold the missing piece of the puzzle…

“For example,” says researcher Henrique Veiga-Fernandes, “some immune cells regulate how the body absorbs fat from food, and we’ve recently shown that brain-immune interactions help control fat metabolism and obesity. This got us thinking — could the nervous and immune systems collaborate to regulate other key processes, like blood sugar levels?”

The signal that stabilizes blood sugar

So they set out to test their theory in mice, where they discovered something very interesting…

The team found that mice genetically engineered without an immune cell known as ILC2 couldn’t produce enough glucagon — the hormone that raises blood sugar — and their glucose levels dropped too low.

This allowed the researchers to focus on that immune cell and tag it with a glow-in-the-dark marker so they could observe its function in healthy mice.

What they found was that, after fasting, these cells traveled to the pancreas.

Once there, the cells release cytokines — tiny chemical messengers — that send a signal to pancreatic cells to produce the hormone glucagon. The increase in glucagon then signals the liver to release glucose.

“This shows that immune cells aren’t just battle-hardened soldiers fighting off threats — they also act like emergency responders, stepping in to deliver critical energy supplies and maintain stability in times of need,” explains Veiga-Fernandes.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Better blood sugar for better overall health

According to the researchers, this finding provides new options for preventing and treating diabetes and obesity (since balanced blood sugar is vital for maintaining a healthy body weight).

And they say it could even be key in cancer research.

That’s because certain cancers, including pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and liver cancer, grow by taking over the body’s metabolic processes to elevate glucagon production, raising blood sugar.

So, what should you do if you want to keep your immune system running strong to help support blood sugar balance?

First, be sure to exercise.

One study found that compared to inactive adults, older endurance cyclists (some in their 80s) were producing the same level of immune cells called T-cells as adults in their 20s!

T-cells are produced in your thymus, a gland in your chest, which usually shrinks in size into adulthood.

Additionally, be sure to avoid habits that hijack your immune system. These include:

• Over-exercising (While exercise is vital for immune health, moderation is key.)
• Too much alcohol
• Too much sugar
• Too much salt
• Nicotine consumption
• Overexposure to UV rays, both indoors and outdoors

Sources:

Eavesdropping on organs: Immune system controls blood sugar levels — EurekAlert!

6 habits that hijack your immune system — Easy Health Options

Is your immune system causing your depression? — Easy Health Options

The real reason fibromyalgia increases pain sensitivity — Easy Health Options

The surprising way your immune system helps burn fat — Easy Health Options

The post A strange connection: The immune system’s impact on blood sugar appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

However, a new study is revealing that people with diabetes, by and large, suffer from deficiencies in micronutrients that could leave their bodies suffering from a “hidden hunger.”

Here’s what the researchers discovered, along with the number one micronutrient they say affects six in 10 people with diabetes…

Peak D3^™

Gives You the Vitamin D3 You Can’t Get From Sunshine Alone!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Micronutrient deficiencies add up to type 2

For their research, scientists delved into data gathered from 132 separate studies to analyze the rate of micronutrient deficiencies in more than 52,000 people living with type 2 diabetes.

The team set out to determine if a lack of vitamins, minerals and electrolytes had any bearing on the development of the disease.

However, the researchers unearthed findings that surpassed their expectations, shedding light on the significant prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies among people with type 2 diabetes…

 “(This result) indicates that every second person with type 2 diabetes has one or the other micronutrient deficiency,” explains study author Daya Krishan Mangal, MD. “These micronutrients are essential at the cellular level and in glucose metabolism.”

That equates to deficiencies in 45% of people with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, the research determined that these deficiencies were significantly more common in women than men.

The primary players

According to the researchers, of all the micronutrient deficiencies they discovered, vitamin D was hands-down the most common, with 60.5% of people with diabetes lacking the vital nutrient.

“Vitamin D deficiency is the most common deficiency found among diabetic patients,” said Mangal. “Vitamin D plays a role in insulin production and utilization at cellular levels.”

This isn’t surprising since previous studies have found that people who take vitamin D can slash their risk of diabetes by 66 to 80%.

In addition to the sunshine vitamin, the researchers found that people with diabetes were also highly likely to experience deficiencies in:

• Magnesium (lacking in 42% of study participants)
• Vitamin B12 (low in 29% of the participants)
• Iron (28% of participants showed deficiency)

When asked to sum up the importance of the study, Dr. Mangal pointed to the fact that “Addressing these deficiencies could improve glycemic control, reduce the risk of complications, and enhance overall health outcomes.”

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Boosting micronutrients

Whether you’re already living with type 2 diabetes, are on the edge of insulin resistance or just need an ounce of prevention, ensuring your micronutrient levels is a must.

In fact, the micronutrient deficiencies discussed here are among the top 10 most of us under-consume.

One of the easiest ways to do that is by eating a healthy, well-rounded diet with plenty of whole foods packed with vitamins and minerals.

To boost vitamin D levels, go for fatty fish like salmon and tuna and beef liver, cheese and eggs. And don’t forget to spend time in the sun. Spend 10-15 minutes every day outdoors at noon with a good amount of skin exposed to encourage your body’s natural vitamin D production. But if you burn easily or have concerns about skin cancer, take a supplement.

Grab more magnesium in your diet by going nutty — particularly by eating this one nut, rich in the mineral, plus an essential vitamin that’s under-consumed in the American diet.

Iron can be found in meats, including fish, poultry and seafood, as well as quinoa, spinach, nuts and seeds and unsweetened cocoa.

Sources:

Burden of micronutrient deficiency among patients with type 2 diabetes: systematic review and meta-analysis — BMJ Nutrition Prevention & Health

‘Hidden hunger’ with diabetes: Deficiency in these vitamins, minerals may be culprit — Medical News Today

The post Missing micronutrients are a setup for diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But what the marketers of these drugs aren’t telling you is that weight loss comes with a lot of drawbacks: weight loss plateaus, scary gastrointestinal side effects, a sobering black box warning and a hefty price tag.

Luckily, there are a couple of simple and inexpensive steps you can take to mimic the effects of these drugs.

For instance, berberine is a phytochemical found in several plants that lowers insulin and fasting glucose levels and reduces triglycerides, which can lead to lower cholesterol. These are similar to the effects triggered by GLP-1 agonists.

Or here’s one that’s even easier….

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Beta-glucan the fiber that mimics GLP-1 agonists

Previous research has touted the ability of fiber to nourish our gut microbiome in ways that help with weight loss.

One such fiber is inulin. It packs a powerful metabolic punch that’s reported to suppress appetite, lower blood sugar and promote healthy weight.

But a recent study has taken that a step further by identifying a specific type of fiber that mimics the effects of GLP-1 agonists.

Beta-glucan, a form of fiber found in oats and barley, was singled out in the study as being able to control blood sugar and assist in weight loss in mice fed a high-fat diet.

The researchers say beta-glucan is the only fiber supplement they tested that lowered a mouse’s fat content and body weight within 18 weeks. Other fibers considered, including wheat dextrin, pectin, resistant starch and cellulose, had no such impact, though they did shift the makeup of the microbiome compared to the mice fed no fiber supplements.

“We know that fiber is important and beneficial; the problem is that there are so many different types of fiber,” says University of Arizona biomedical scientist Frank Duca.

“We wanted to know what kind of fiber would be most beneficial for weight loss and improvements in glucose homeostasis so that we can inform the community, the consumer and then also inform the agricultural industry,” Duca adds.

Oats for weight loss, reduced fat, gut health and insulin sensitivity

Dietary fiber is the main energy source for gut bacteria, yet less than 5 percent of Americans consume the recommended 25 to 30 grams of fiber (between 0.9 and 1 ounce) of fiber per day.

Even when we do choose to consume fiber, it’s tough to know which type to pick. There are water-soluble fibers like oat beta-glucans and wheat dextrin that are easily fermentable by gut bacteria.

Then there are others that are less soluble or insoluble, meaning they pass through the gut and help form stool. Both are important from a health perspective.

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

Give your Body the Optimal Alkalizing Nutrients you Need for Healthy pH Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

But if you’re looking to lose weight, beta-glucan may be the way to go…

The study found that only beta-glucan increased the number of Ileibacterium found in the mouse intestine. This bacterium has been linked to weight loss in other mouse studies.

Long before the 10-week mark, mice fed beta-glucan demonstrated reduced body weight and body fat content compared to mice fed other types of fiber.

The beta-glucan mice also showed increased concentrations of butyrate in their guts, a metabolite made when microbes break down fiber. Butyrate triggers the release of GLP-1, the same protein mimicked by drugs like Ozempic to stimulate insulin release.

And that’s not the only effect, Duca says. “We think that there are other beneficial things that butyrate could be doing that are not gut peptide related, such as improving gut barrier health and targeting peripheral organs like the liver,” he notes.

The researchers caution more study is needed before these results can be extended to humans. However, the findings do suggest some fiber may be better suited to weight loss and insulin control than others.

So if you’re looking to lose weight, boosting your intake of beta-glucan could benefit those efforts. Try eating a bowl of oatmeal (which contains both inulin and beta-glucans) for breakfast, or adding a helping of barley to your soup or salad. Not only will it support your weight loss efforts, but it will give you better gut health to boot.

Sources:

How your morning oats could help you manage your weight — The University of Arizona News

Impact of Plant-Based Dietary Fibers on Metabolic Homeostasis in High-Fat Diet Mice via Alterations in the Gut Microbiota and Metabolites — The Journal of Nutrition

The post The breakfast food that mimics how Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro work appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

This has long been confirmed. And sweetened soda is one of the worst culprits.

A typical 12-ounce can of soda contains around 39 grams of sugar, roughly the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar. Enough sugary sodas and blood sugar spikes eventually make cells less responsive to insulin, and before you know it, insulin resistance sets in, followed eventually by type 2 diabetes.

It turns out there’s much more to it than that…

For the first time, a study has “connected the dots,” showing how drinking soda causes your gut to produce chemicals that are directly connected to the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Coenzyme Q10 is essential for good health. Our cells use it to produce energy the body needs for basic functions, including cell growth and maintenance. The problem is, you can start seeing declines in your CoQ10 levels as early as your 20s plus… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Drinking sugary drinks causes gut changes linked to diabetes

Scientists from nine different universities came together to examine data from more than 16,000 Hispanic/Latino individuals in the U.S. They chose to focus on this population because they have both high soda consumption and a high prevalence of type 2 diabetes.

They discovered that sugar-sweetened beverage consumption is linked to changes in nine species of gut bacteria and that these changes are linked to the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Four species of gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were reduced among those who drank sweetened drinks and soda.

SCFAs improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood glucose levels, so producing fewer SCFAs leaves a person more vulnerable to diabetes.

Other metabolic compounds affected by drinking sugary soda are glycerophospholipids, fats that build cell membranes and appear to be linked to diabetes, and branch-chained amino acids (BCAA), which are thought to play a role in insulin resistance.

“Our study suggests a potential mechanism to explain why sugar-sweetened beverages are bad for your metabolism,” according to senior author Qibin Qi, PhD, from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY. “Although our findings are observational, they provide insights for potential diabetes prevention or management strategies using the gut microbiome.”

He added that the sugar in soda “might be more easily absorbed because they’re just sugar and water.”

Peak Organic Superfruits^™

Blend of anthocyanin-rich, organic fermented fruits — including Aronia, Acia, Blueberry, Pomegranate and Plum — that can help clobber insulin resistance, and keep you healthy. MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How to support your gut microbiome

Now that you understand the profound connection between your gut microbiome and the risk of diabetes, it’s empowering to know that you can take steps to enhance your gut health and reduce this risk.

First of all, give up the sweetened beverages. A large study you can read about here determined the 2 worst ultraprocessed foods for our health. And you’ve probably guessed that sweetened beverages were one of them.

Next, try these steps:

• Increase your intake of inulin fiber, which boosts short-chain fatty acids in your gut. You can find inulin in garlic, leeks, asparagus, beans, legumes, bananas, apricots, carrots, oranges and chicory root. These are considered prebiotic foods.
• Eat fermented foods: Fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut and kefir all contain healthy bacteria that reduce inflammation and support healthy bacteria.
• Avoid or limit your intake of artificial sweeteners: Some evidence has shown that artificial sweeteners like aspartame increase blood sugar by stimulating the growth of unhealthy bacteria like Enterobacteriaceae in the gut microbiome.
• Eat whole grains: Whole grains contain beneficial carbs like beta-glucan, which are digested by gut bacteria, and help prevent diabetes.
• Eat fruits rich in polyphenols: Polyphenols are plant compounds that shield us from insulin resistance and diabetes. Think stone fruits and berries.
• Take antibiotics only when necessary: Antibiotics disrupt the gut microbiome, possibly contributing to weight gain and antibiotic resistance. Thus, only take antibiotics when medically necessary.

Sources:

How might soft drinks lead to type 2 diabetes — Medical News Today

Sugar sweetened beverage intake, gut microbiota, circulating metabolites, and diabetes risk in Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos — Cell Metabolism

Consumption of sugar sweetened beverages, artificially sweetened beverages, and fruit juice and incidence of type 2 diabetes: systematic review, meta-analysis, and estimation of population attributable fraction — The BMJ

The implication of short-chain fatty acids in obesity and diabetes — Microbiology Insights

The post Soda, sugar and the other reason it leads to diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

In other words, it would only take a tiny push for 34% of us to move into full-blown blood sugar problems that can damage our hearts, take down our kidneys and lead to serious brain problems.

The good news is that making simple changes like staying active, reducing stress, and adjusting your diet to include more low-carb options can make a significant impact on the prediabetes problem.

And it turns out there’s one more thing you can do that’s even easier…

It’s as simple as adding one specific superfood to your daily diet and letting its natural compounds work to balance your blood sugar.

Here are the details…

Peak Golden Oil^™

The golden-colored oil of the Nigella sativa plant contains compounds essential for a healthy immune system. That explains why it was documented in the oldest medical writings. But we don’t just rely on history to prove the therapeutic benefit of… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Lower fasting blood glucose

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have previously shown that a compound known as sulforaphane in broccoli works as an antidiabetic agent in people already living with type 2 diabetes.

However, sulforaphane had not yet been put to the test against prediabetes.

So the scientists got back to work following 89 people with elevated fasting blood sugar, an indicator of prediabetes. The participants were randomly assigned to take either sulforaphane or a placebo for twelve weeks.

And the results were clear…

Sulforaphane can take fasting blood sugar down!

In fact, the results showed that participants who took the broccoli superfood compound experienced a significantly higher than average reduction in fasting blood sugar than those taking the placebo.

The results were so impressive that the researchers even pointed out that the difference between those taking sulforaphane and those not was “considerable.”

Better and better blood sugar

The scientists also found that some people with prediabetes benefited from sulforaphane at an even greater level.

Those with the most significant improvement after taking sulforaphane had low insulin resistance and secretion, along with:

• Early signs of mild age-related diabetes
• A relatively low BMI in the context of the study
• A low incidence of fatty liver disease

The scientists even found why sulforaphane may be more impactful against blood sugar problems for some people…

In an additional stage of the research, they found differences in the gut microbiomes of those who responded well to sulforaphane compared to those who had a lesser response, indicating that bacteria may interact with sulforaphane, improving the efficacy of the broccoli compound.

While more research may be needed to identify the microbiome differences, the researchers did find that the most profound responders may have had more butyrate-producing bacteria.

Butyrate is a fatty acid that the gut creates when it digests certain foods. Previous research found that a decline in butyrate may trigger insulin resistance. Butyrate also contributes to gut health.

Peak DIM^™

Helps Support Healthy Hormone Balance for Both Men and Women by Keeping Excess Estrogen in Check!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Putting sulforaphane to work for you

“The treatment of prediabetes is currently lacking in many respects, but these new findings open the way for possible precision treatment using sulforaphane extracted from broccoli as a functional food. However, lifestyle factors remain the foundation of any treatment for prediabetes, including exercise, healthy eating, and weight loss,” says Professor Anders Rosengren.

“The results of the study also offer a general model of how pathophysiology and gut flora interact with and influence treatment responses. A model that could have broader implications.”

So, how can you use the results of this study to work?

The first step is to increase your intake of broccoli to get more sulforaphane in your diet.

Here’s the best way to eat broccoli to amplify the compound’s powers. (Hint: It’s not raw.)

Next, consider consuming more probiotics to support the healthy bacteria levels in your gut and, therefore, sulforaphane’s action.

You can get probiotics through dietary choices like yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut. But I also like to take a quality probiotic supplement to ensure optimal levels.

Sources:

Diabetes Statistics – NIH

Reduced prediabetes in people who ate broccoli compound – EurekAlert!

The post The superfood compound that beats back prediabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

And that’s not even mentioning the number of diets out there. Mediterranean, green Mediterranean, keto, vegan, paleo, DASH… each has benefits and downsides. How am I supposed to choose?

I guess it all depends on what health impact I’m looking for. My goal is to choose a style of eating that minimizes my risk of chronic disease, so any diet that can help with that is one I’m interested in.

That’s why a recent study exploring a new eating style caught my attention. Yes, it’s yet another diet to add to the pile — but this one has some exciting benefits that can happen fast….

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

At birth your body’s pH is balanced. But starting immediately acid waste builds up and starts to shift your pH level from healthy alkaline to unhealthy acid. If your body is too acidic it provides the right terrain for germs to thrive. To add insult to injury… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The benefits of the NiMe diet

One thing most healthy diets have in common is their emphasis on avoiding “industrialized” or processed foods that are associated with bad health and early death.

Industrialized diets have contributed to a significant rise in chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes and heart disease in Westernized countries.

An international team of researchers decided to develop a diet based on the eating habits of non-industrialized societies. They focused on members of rural Papua New Guinea communities because they have a specific gut bacteria, L. reuteri, that people from industrialized societies lack.

In the study, participants followed the NiMe (Non-industrialised Microbiome Restore) diet and supplemented L. reuteri.

NiMe has a plant-based focus, primarily comprised of vegetables, legumes and other whole-plant foods. However, it is not vegetarian, as it includes one small serving of animal protein daily: salmon, chicken or pork. NiMe excludes dairy, beef and wheat because they aren’t part of the traditional foods consumed by rural Papua New Guineans.

NiMe was also very low in processed foods, which are high in sugar and saturated fat, and very high in fiber. In fact, fiber content was 22 grams per 1,000 calories, which exceeds current dietary recommendations.

The findings were impressive. In just three weeks, the diet slashed conditions you may recognize as symptoms of metabolic syndrome:

• Promoted weight loss;
• Lowered bad cholesterol by 17 percent;
• Reduced blood sugar by 6 percent;
• Slashed C-reactive protein by 14 percent (a marker of inflammation and heart disease).

These improvements were linked to beneficial changes in the gut microbiome. Specifically, the NiMe diet enhanced the short-term persistence of L. reuteri in the gut and reduced pro-inflammatory bacteria and bacterial genes that degrade the gut’s mucus layer.

Even though participants did not consume fewer calories on the NiMe diet, they still lost weight, and the diet alone led to considerable cardiometabolic benefits.

Peak BP Platinum^™

Clinically-Tested Nutritients that Support Arterial Health and Blood Pressure!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

“Industrialization has drastically impacted our gut microbiome, likely increasing the risk of chronic diseases,” says Jens Walter, a professor and leading scientist at University College Cork in Ireland. “To counter this, we developed a diet that mimics traditional, non-industrialized dietary habits and is compatible with our understanding on diet-microbiome interactions.”

In previous research, Walter’s team found that people in rural Papua New Guinea have a much more diverse microbiome rich in bacteria that thrive from dietary fiber and low in levels of pro-inflammatory bacteria linked to a Western diet. The researchers used this information to design the NiMe diet.

Recipes for a better gut microbiome

According to Paul Ross, a professor and director of APC Microbiome Ireland, the study illustrates how the gut microbiome can be targeted through specific diets to improve health and reduce disease risk. “These findings could shape future dietary guidelines and inspire the development of new food products and ingredients, as well as therapeutics, which target the microbiome,” Ross says.

The NiMe diet, with its plant-based focus, is surprisingly simple, and researchers have made recipes available on their Instagram (@nimediet) and Facebook pages. They also plan to make an online cookbook available as well. Most of the recipes use ingredients that are readily found in Western grocery stores.

If you’re looking to boost your gut levels of L. reuteri, consider adding probiotic supplements containing the bacterium to your diet. Combining that with the NiMe diet could be a powerful step towards protecting your body from chronic disease.

The post NiMe: The good gut diet that improves health fast appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But what good is a long life unless you’re healthy and independent enough to enjoy it?

A lot of focus for successful aging has focused on muscle strength, and rightly so. Without muscle strength, we lose mobility.

However, muscle loss is also the gateway to the routine metabolic decline associated with aging. Here’s why and how to stop it…

Peak Longevity Platinum^™

Every cell in the body depends on mitochondria for energy. Together, cells and mitochondria are building blocks for life and health. But mitochondria wear out with age, which leaves cells unable to create the energy they need to function properly… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The role of muscle loss in metabolic health

Imagine you’re in your middle age or beyond. It’s possible that your muscle mass is decreasing, and along with it, your strength and ability to perform daily tasks.

This shrinking of muscle mass is known as sarcopenia. It will lead to a loss of function and independence if it isn’t reversed. But what many don’t know is that muscle loss can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes.

That’s because muscle is a major contributor to resting metabolism. The muscle serves as a reservoir, taking glucose and lipids (fats) from the bloodstream and storing them where they can be used for energy.

There, it also acts as a buffer of amino acids during what are known as periods of catabolic stress, which is often associated with critical illness. This is why markers of muscle health can predict outcomes for patients admitted to intensive care units, including how long someone may be on a ventilator or their risk of surviving their hospitalization. In other words, mortality.

Understanding the significance of maintaining healthy muscle tissue is crucial for living a long and healthy life, for reasons many of us may not have considered.

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

Supports Improved Oxygen Levels… Healthy Circulation… and Balanced Hormones for Better Overall Health!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The best way to strengthen mature muscles

Beginning around age 50, we lose about one percent of our muscle mass per year. At the same time, we lose muscle strength at the rate of about three percent per year.

And if we become bedridden for any length of time due to illness or injury, our muscles will shrink even more…

For example, if you walk regularly, but then an injury or illness keeps you from getting your steps in for two or three weeks, changes can occur quickly enough to disrupt blood glucose control and impair the body’s ability to build muscle from dietary protein.

But life happens. Fortunately, researchers at McMaster University have found one exercise in particular can tap into the “plasticity” of our muscle tissue to work to our advantage…

Their research has shown that resistance exercise (strength training), even when performed sporadically and with lighter loads, can effectively offset muscle losses during periods of reduced activity in older people.

They also found that between 1.2 and 1.6 grams of daily protein consumption is ideal for improving muscle growth. This protein should come from a mixture of animal sources, like meat and dairy, and plant-based sources, like legumes.

If you’re a woman, consider taking an omega-3 supplement regularly. In research involving women, the nutrient was found to lessen muscle loss during periods of immobility and more than doubled the amount of strength women gained from exercise.

Now that you know how don’t let anything hold you back from living the long and healthy life you deserve.

Sources:

Protecting your muscle is vital for healthy aging here’s why — Science Alert

Healthspan vs lifespan the vital role of muscle in successful aging — The Conversation

Low-load resistance training during step-reduction attenuates declines in muscle mass and strnegth and enhances anabolic sensitivity in older men — The Physiological Society

The effects of whey, pea, and collagen protein supplementation beyond the recommended dietary allowance on integrated myofibrrillar protein synthetic rates in older males: a randomized controlled trial — The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

The post Why muscle loss sets off a cascade of unhealthy aging appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It can happen when you’ve just moved to a new town or city and don’t know anyone. Or maybe you’re cut off from friends and family because you’re housebound due to poor health.

I remember times when I felt lonely. It felt like “a pain in my heart.” Not a real one, but it was a deep aching that was almost physical.

I’ve now learned that loneliness that lasts too long can harm me physically.

I’ve read a remarkable study that has proven that finding solutions to loneliness can also prevent some life-threatening health problems, especially for middle-aged and older adults.

Peak Vitality^™

Your adrenal glands support essential functions from metabolism to stress response. But when they become fatigued, problems with sleep quality, unwanted weight gain, moodiness, energy levels and more can take your vitality for a dive. Nutrients called “adaptogens” help restore balance and improve… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How loneliness contributes to heart disease, stroke and diabetes

A team of scientists at the University of Cambridge in England and Fudan University in China used the science of proteomics — the study of proteins — to examine blood samples from over 42,000 adults ages 40 to 69 who are part of the UK Biobank.

They were able to see which proteins were present in higher levels among people who were socially isolated or lonely and how these proteins were connected to poor health.

They identified 26 proteins associated with loneliness that are linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and early death.

They also found that many of these same proteins are produced as part of our body’s immune response to inflammation and viral infection.

But it doesn’t stop there.

The abundance of five of these 26 proteins appears to be caused by loneliness.

One of these five proteins, known as ASGR, is associated with higher cholesterol and an increased risk of heart disease.

Some of the remaining four play a role in the development of insulin resistance, atherosclerosis and cancer progression.

Maybe now you can see why the World Health Organization has described social isolation and loneliness as a ‘global public health concern.’

Peak Blood Flow^™

Supports Healthy Circulation to your Heart, Brain, Lungs, Eyes and Extremities!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

How to safeguard against the health threats of loneliness

Dr. Vivek Murthy, the outgoing U.S. Surgeon General, describes loneliness as a universal feeling. It’s like hunger or thirst. Your body is sending you signals that you’re lacking something you need for survival — in this case, human connection.

If you’re feeling the weight of isolation, there are steps you can take to move towards more connection and a healthier, more fulfilling life.

Volunteer. I recently started volunteering at my local food pantry on Fridays. When I’m there, I feel vitally connected to my community and have met people who have added depth and richness to my life.

Practice gratitude. I keep a gratitude journal. Each day, I record 10 things I’m grateful for. They can be as small as a good cup of coffee or sunlight streaming into my kitchen. They’re things that bring me moments of joy, things I don’t want to take for granted.

Call a friend. Don’t text … call. Research shows that even a regular 10-minute phone call can help ease loneliness.

Draw out your creative side. Creative pursuits like art, music, or writing can bring you joy and help you feel more connected. Creating something can bring a sense of fulfillment that can overcome a mood of loneliness and sadness.

Take a break from social media. Research suggests that comparing yourself to others on social media may be linked to increased loneliness. Spend that time connecting with people in “real life” instead.

Sources:

Loneliness linked to higher risk of heart disease and stroke and susceptibility to infection — Science Daily

‘Loneliness’ proteins in your blood could be putting your health at risk — Science Alert

Plasma proteonic signatures of social isolation and loneliness associated with morbidity and mortality — Nature

Effect of layperson-delievered empathy-focused program of telephone calls on loneliness, depression, and anxiety among adults during the COVID-19 pandemic — JAMA Psychiatry

Loneliness and Facebook use: the role of social comparison and rumination — National Library of Medicine

Surgeon General: Why I’m Calling for a Warning Label on Social Media Platforms — NY Times

The post Blood samples connect loneliness to stroke, heart disease and diabetes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

That’s because dropping the extra pounds is one of the most effective ways to improve your blood sugar.

And now according to a new study, there’s one more big benefit to following a weight management program for your diabetes — being able to cut back on or even toss out both your diabetes and your blood pressure medication for good.

Lose weight and kiss diabetes and high blood pressure goodbye

The research specifically utilized a weight management program developed by researchers at the Universities of Glasgow and Newcastle for the Diabetes UK-funded Diabetes REmission Clinical Trial (DIRECT).

It involves multiple phases — the first of which is 12 weeks on a diet that involves consuming low-calorie soups and shakes. And it can lead to weight loss of over 15 kg or 33 pounds in just four months when followed fully.

For the second phase, you simply choose foods and eat wisely in order to maintain your weight.

For the study, researchers had participants stop all diabetes and blood pressure drugs at the start of the diet and then only had them restarted if their blood sugar or blood pressure went up.

And here’s what happened.

Not only did participants experience remission of their type 2 diabetes, but the diet also helped lower blood pressure — and reduce the need for antihypertensive medications.

The study showed that:

• Maintaining the 33-pound weight loss allowed 80 percent of people to become free from type 2 diabetes, without the need for diabetes medications for at least 2 years.
• Average blood pressure fell steadily as people lost weight.
• Blood pressure remained lower after the formula diet period finished, and then at 12 and 24 months.
• Just over a quarter (28 percent) of people needed to reintroduce a blood pressure tablet during the diet.
• Another 28 percent were able to remain off their blood pressure medications for at least two years following the diet.

“Our study shows that, in addition to possible remission from type 2 diabetes, there are other very important health benefits, as weight loss is a very effective treatment for hypertension and its associated serious health risks,” said Professor Mike Lean, from the University of Glasgow.

Peak BP Platinum^™

We eat right and exercise to help maintain our blood pressure levels within a normal range. Sometimes it still just isn’t enough. But there are clinically-tested nutritional ingredients that support arterial health to help keep blood pressure levels… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Slimming down to ditch the drugs

The study showed that simply by losing weight, you have the power to not only improve your heart, blood vessel, and blood sugar health but also finally either decrease or eliminate the need for medication to treat those issues.

Of course, you don’t want to simply ditch the drugs without talking to your doctor, even if you are losing weight.

Instead, start a healthy weight loss plan and ask your doctor to monitor your blood pressure and blood sugar to help you get off the medications safely.

To follow the diet used in the study, check out the book Life Without Diabetes: The Definitive Guide to Understanding and Reversing Diabetes by Ron Taylor, MD.

Or simply follow a low-calorie, nutrient-dense diet with plenty of fruits and veggies, such as the Mediterranean diet. Weight loss might be slower. But when it comes to weight loss, getting to your destination is what matters.

Sources:

Reversing Type 2 Diabetes and Ongoing Remission — Newcastle Magnetic Resonance Centre

Diabetes remission diet also lowers blood pressure and reduces need for medication — EurekAlert!

The post Kiss diabetes and high blood pressure goodbye in one step appeared first on Easy Health Options®.