Some people dismiss it as a myth, others believe it’s the sole cause of heart disease.

The truth lies in between.

Cholesterol is real, it matters, and the way we understand it can have a profound impact on cardiometabolic health.

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»

Myth 1: All cholesterol is bad

Cholesterol itself isn’t harmful. In fact, your body needs it to build cell membranes, produce hormones, and aid in digestion. What matters most isn’t whether cholesterol is present, but how it’s carried in your bloodstream.

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries if levels are too high.

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Although the balance matters, your LDL level is probably the most important value when it comes to avoiding heart disease. The lower your LDL, the lower your risk for cardiovascular events.

In fact, data from multiple randomized controlled trials show that populations with lower LDL levels consistently experience fewer cardiovascular events.

Myth 2: Cholesterol is a “myth”

At Step One, I sometimes hear from people who insist cholesterol doesn’t matter, or worse, that it isn’t even “real.” Nothing could be further from the truth.

High cholesterol is one of the most extensively studied risk factors for cardiovascular disease, with incredibly consistent results: lower LDL levels translate to better outcomes, no matter how you get there — through medications, diet, or favorable genetics.

There are even rare individuals who are genetically unable to make PCSK9, the enzyme that slows LDL receptor activity. Their LDL levels hover around 30 mg/dL for life. And they almost never get cardiovascular disease. That’s not myth — that’s biology.

Myth 3: Dietary cholesterol is the main cause of high cholesterol

For years, foods like eggs and shellfish were villainized for raising cholesterol. But dietary cholesterol has much less impact on blood cholesterol than most people think.

Your liver produces the majority of cholesterol circulating in your body. What influences blood cholesterol more strongly is the type of fat (and types of carbohydrates) you eat.

Saturated and trans fats can raise LDL cholesterol.  These fats are all solid at room temperature and include butter, cheese, the marbling in beef, the fat in chicken, coconut oil and all hydrogenated fats.

Unsaturated fats (found in foods like nuts, seeds, and olive oil) are liquid at room temperature and can help improve cholesterol levels.

The bigger picture: food has the power to harm and the power to heal. Poor nutrition doesn’t just raise LDL — it also drives up blood pressure, blood sugar, weight, and inflammation. Eat right, and you improve all of these risk factors at the same time.

Peak Vitality^™

Peak Vitality^™ helps support and strengthen adrenal gland function for improved energy, hormone balance, mood and focus!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Myth 4: Cholesterol is the only thing that matters

Cholesterol is important, but it isn’t the only player. Cardiovascular disease is multifactorial. High blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, chronic inflammation, and genetics all layer on top of cholesterol to influence risk. Even with high LDL, some people may avoid disease, while others with normal levels may still experience events.

This is why reductionist thinking — blaming everything on a single risk factor — misses the mark. Cholesterol matters, but so do the other pieces of the puzzle.

Myth 5: Medication is the only solution

Statins and other cholesterol-lowering drugs can be transformative for some people. But they’re also an incomplete solution, because they only target one factor. If you lower cholesterol through medication but ignore blood sugar, blood pressure, weight, or inflammation, your risk remains elevated.

Nutrition, on the other hand, is comprehensive. Eat poorly, and you worsen multiple risk factors at once. Eat well, and you lower LDL, improve blood pressure, stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and support healthy weight — all in one step.

The bottom line

Cholesterol is not a myth. It’s a proven, powerful risk factor for disease. But it’s also not the only one, and it shouldn’t be viewed in isolation. The good news is that food gives us an opportunity to improve cholesterol while simultaneously improving overall cardiometabolic health.

At Step One Foods, we’ve made it easier to take control of your nutrition with convenient options proven to help support cholesterol management. 

The post What everyone gets wrong about cholesterol appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Not only do they increase your risk of developing heart disease and 30 other health conditions and diseases, but they’re also behind the obesity epidemic.

In fact, I wrote about the research that confirmed it’s these foods, not lack of exercise — as previously thought — that’s fueling rising rates of obesity.

But what’s truly disturbing is their impact on reproductive and metabolic health…

Peak Thyroid Support^™

The thyroid’s main job is to make hormones that regulate the heart, brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, muscles and every other organ and tissue. But to function properly, it needs an adequate supply of iodine — something that gets harder to metabolize with age. That’s why… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Weight gain is just the beginning

A 2025 study at the University of Copenhagen has confirmed that no matter how little of them you eat, ultra-processed foods lead to weight gain.

Researchers compared the health effects of an unprocessed vs. an ultra-processed diet on the same person, in order to get the most accurate results.

Forty-three men spent three weeks eating each of the two diets, with a cleansing period in between.

The unprocessed and ultra-processed diets had the same amount of calories, protein, carbs, and fats. But half the men were given an extra 500 calories per day.

Regardless of whether those extra 500 calories were involved, men on the ultra-processed diet gained about 1 kg (just over 2 pounds) more fat mass than those on the unprocessed diet.

But it doesn’t end there…

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

“Our results prove that ultra-processed foods harm our reproductive and metabolic health, even if they’re not eaten in excess. This indicates that it is the processed nature of these foods that makes them harmful,” says Jessica Preston, lead author of the study.

Men on the ultra-processed diet showed:

• An increase in levels of phthalate cxxMINP, a hormone-disrupting chemical typically found in plastics.
• A decrease in testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone, both essential for sperm production. In addition to affecting fertility, low sperm count impacts a man’s sex drive and can be a cause of erectile dysfunction.
• An increase in LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels.
• Altered thyroid hormones.
• Altered markers of systemic inflammation and oxidative stress.

And in case you’ve forgotten, chronic inflammation causes the cellular damage behind a range of diseases from cancer to Parkinson’s disease to diabetes, not to mention an accelerated aging process that makes your body old before its time.

“We were shocked by how many body functions were disrupted by ultra-processed foods, even in healthy young men. The long-term implications are alarming and highlight the need to revise nutritional guidelines to better protect against chronic disease,” says the study’s senior author, Professor Romain Barrès.

Peak DIM^™

Helps Support Healthy Hormone Balance for Both Men and Women by Keeping Excess Estrogen in Check!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The choice is clear

I hope you don’t need any more convincing.

Whole foods are the best alternatives to ultra-processed foods. But for success, ease into eating more of them and fewer ultra-processed foods.

Ultra-processed foods are made to “hook” you, so don’t blame yourself if it’s hard to let them go. That being said, see about ditching the two ultra-processed foods considered the worst ASAP.

According to Heartfoundation.org, whole foods and minimally processed foods, like these, are what we all should be eating:

• Fresh, frozen and canned vegetables and fruit
• Dried, canned and frozen beans and legumes like lentils and chickpeas
• Whole grains like oats, brown rice, barley and quinoa
• Fresh and frozen poultry and meat
• Fresh, frozen and canned fish and seafood
• Milk and plain yoghurt (try sweetening with honey)
• Eggs
• Nuts and seeds.

An easy way to identify ultra-processed foods is that they are quick, easy, and require little to no preparation — the very definition of “convenience foods.”

They include foods like sweetened cereals, soda and white bread; frozen French fries, chicken nuggets and pizza; processed meats, like hot dogs and bacon; pre-packaged baked goods, like cookies and cakes; and microwaveable meals.

Make the choice today and start taking back your health and your longevity.

Sources:

Why ultra-processed diets make you gain fat even without extra calories — Science Daily

Effect of ultra-processed food consumption on male reproductive and metabolic health — Cell Metabolism

Here’s What Eating Processed Foods for Two Weeks Does to Your Body — Time

Five ways to eat less processed food — Heart Foundation

The post Ultra-processed foods: A metabolic and hormonal disaster for men appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But even worse, for some women, the transition can also mean that higher risks for heart attack and stroke are just around the corner.

Now, researchers from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center have discovered just how menopause is linked to the number one killer of women.

The good news is that, by understanding the risks, women everywhere can have a better shot at a long, heart-healthy life.

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»

Your heart on menopause

Many people still think of cardiovascular disease as “a man’s disease.” But in truth, it’s the biggest killer of women, responsible for approximately 40 percent of all deaths.

Research has already shown that the risk of heart disease in women rises sharply after menopause.  Though it’s not been clearly understood why. However, we do know that negative changes in blood fats (or lipids) may play a role since they tend to occur during the perimenopause period.

Sadly, scientists had only looked into the most basic lipid tests in women (think LDL, known as bad cholesterol, HDL or good cholesterol and triglycerides), so we haven’t had all the facts.

Luckily, that’s changed thanks to a Texas research team that delved into advanced lipid problems in menopausal women, including what are known as lipid subfractions and particle numbers, which have been shown to be far better at predicting cardiovascular disease.

Advanced tests reveal threat to menopausal hearts

The researchers performed these top-tier blood tests on over 1,240 pre-, peri- and postmenopausal women and another 1,340 plus men for comparison. They then followed up for approximately seven years.

What they discovered was this:

• A big increase in “bad cholesterol.” All three female groups had an increase in LDL-P (the number of bad cholesterol particles) compared to men, but the greatest percent change was found to be between peri and post groups at 8.3 percent. LDL-P is a hidden risk for cardiovascular disease.
• A loss of “good cholesterol.” Compared to men, postmenopausal women had the greatest percent change of HDL-P (the number of good cholesterol particles) with a negative change of 4.8%. When HDL-P count is low, you are trending towards insulin resistance and a greater risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Negative changes for blood vessels. Small-dense LDL had a greater percentage change in the peri-menopausal group compared to men, with a change of 213%. This percent change is ~15% higher than both pre- and post-menopause groups.  Smaller LDL-P size can more easily enter the blood vessel wall and cause heart disease. Worse, small dense LDL can more easily get into the artery wall, leading to arteriosclerosis.

“We found that menopause is associated with adverse changes in lipoprotein profiles, with the most pronounced changes found to be in increases in ‘bad’ LDL-particles and subfractions observed for peri-menopausal women,” said study author Dr. Stephanie Moreno. “When looked at together, these changes could help explain the increase of cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women and help determine if earlier interventions are warranted.”

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Gives Your Cells the Energy They Need for Optimal Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Be proactive about your heart risks

One out of three U.S. adults has some form of heart disease. Yet, approximately 50% of people who experience a heart attack have “normal” cholesterol results.

If you’ve made the transition to menopause, or soon will, ask your doctor about these advanced blood tests. It makes sense to use the most accurate and predictive testing for risk assessment — especially now that we know the transition to menopause can drive your lipid values into the danger zone.

It also makes sense to stay on top of the latest developments about women’s heart health. For example, scientists have found that beets can give back some of the heart protection that menopause steals…

In experiments with postmenopausal women who drank beetroot juice, researchers saw such improvements in blood flow, and determined if the level of improved blood-vessel function could be maintained over the postmenopausal years — it could significantly reduce the risk to women’s heart health.

Why beetroot juice?

When a woman’s estrogen production tanks, so does the level of nitric oxide (NO) normally produced by her body. Beets help ramp it back up. NO is a signaling molecule in the endothelial cells that line the walls of our arteries. NO functions as a powerful vasodilator and an essential regulator of the cardiovascular system.

It’s important to know, though, that concentrated beet powder generally has much less sugar per serving than whole beets or beet juice.

Sources:

Menopause potentially linked to adverse cardiovascular health through blood fat profile changes — EurekAlert!

Associations Between High-Density Lipoprotein Particles and Ischemic Events by Vascular Domain, Sex, and Ethnicity: A Pooled Cohort Analysis — Circulation

The post The menopause link to 40% of deaths in women appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But they’re also poisoning us.

Because their use is so widespread, they’re practically impossible to avoid, and even harder to eliminate — hence their nickname, “forever chemicals.”

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, PFAS molecules have a chain of linked carbon and fluorine atoms. Because the carbon-fluorine bond is one of the strongest, these chemicals do not degrade easily in the environment, your home or your body.

“Every person in the United States, essentially, is walking around with PFAS in their body,” says Dr. Jennifer Schlezinger, a Boston University School of Public Health professor of environmental health.

Except now, purely by happenstance, Dr. Schlezinger may have found a ridiculously easy way to start ridding our bodies of these chemicals…

Peak #2^™

When you can’t go “#2,” the bloating, gas and upset stomach can make you miserable. Peak #2^™ is formulated to help you “go” the way nature intended — without stress or straining — thanks to magnesium and 8 other natural ingredients that support comfortable, daily bowel movements… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Lowering cholesterol and cleansing PFAS

Perfluoroalkyl substances, better known as PFAS, are used to make coats waterproof, pans nonstick and furniture stain-resistant.

You’ll also find PFAS in food wrap and containers, cosmetics and personal care products, increasing the ways we are exposed.

Some research shows PFAS are excreted in urine, but it takes nearly four years for levels to drop by half. So, they build up in concentration. Continuous exposure ensures a cycle in which they are never entirely removed from your body.

The damage they do to our health is linked to breast and testicular cancer, the death of our brain cells and the destruction of our immune systems.

Dr. Schlezinger has long studied the role of environmental toxins in disease development and adverse health effects. But it was a personal quest to lower her cholesterol levels that inadvertently led to a solution to remove forever chemicals from our bodies — and it’s something anyone can do.

Taking a drug-free approach, Dr. Schlezinger discovered that cholestyramine, a gel-forming dietary fiber, could help reduce her cholesterol.  

When taken with meals, cholestyramine binds to bile acids, eliminating them from the body through normal digestive processes. The body has to replace the lost bile acid, so it draws cholesterol from the blood to do so, thus reducing cholesterol levels.

Bile acid and PFAS are both surfactants. They are built to stick to fiber. Dr. Schlezinger wondered if gel-forming fibers could help expel PFAS just as they do with bile acids.

In clinical trials using an oat beta-glucan supplement (a gel-forming fiber), Dr. Schlezinger indeed found a statistically significant effect on PFAS levels.

She is continuing her work to find the optimal gel-forming fiber to decrease PFAS levels.

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

A healthy step in the right direction

Despite the success of her initial trials, Dr Schlezinger wants to be clear about a few things…

One, she is not recommending a high-fiber diet to lower cholesterol or to remove PFAS. A supplement is much more accessible. For example, she’s testing a fiber known as psyllium, the key ingredient in Metamucil.

Second, she’s not implying that taking a fiber supplement for a few months will eliminate PFAS from your body. It’s unclear how long it could take.

But it appears to be a step in the right direction. The vast majority of Americans consume nowhere near the recommended daily fiber intake.

Dr. Schlezinger has been taking a scoop of oat beta-glucan in pomegranate juice before meals, and her cholesterol is back to normal.

But if gelled fiber is not appealing to you, there is another option that holds promise…

Probiotics. Research has shown that some gut bacteria have a remarkably high capacity to soak up PFAS from the gut environment at a range of concentrations and store these in clumps inside their cells.

Mice with these bacteria had more PFAS in their stool, meaning they were able to help it exit their bodies.

Staying regular may also reduce the amount of time PFAS spend in the gut, where they can leak through the gut barrier into the bloodstream.

Regardless of how effective these methods are, they also offer other health benefits and may be our best chance to reduce our PFAS exposure somewhat.

Sources:

Supplement could help remove forever chemicals from the body — Futurity

An oat fiber intervention for reducing PFAS body burden: A pilot study in male C57Bl/6 J mice — Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology

The post The cholesterol fix that sweeps forever chemicals away appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

“Good fat” is found in foods like olive oil and avocados (monounsaturated fats) as well as in fatty fish and walnuts (polyunsaturated fats). Eating these foods will actually help lower your risk of heart disease.

“Bad” fats, or triglycerides, are found in processed foods, fatty meats and fried foods.

The scientific community has considered having a high level of triglycerides to be a biomarker of risk for vascular disease and stroke.

But new research is sounding an alarm, finding that, in fact, high triglycerides play a direct role in causing a serious and potentially life-threatening condition…

Peak Blood Flow^™

Poor circulation can impact your eyesight, your ability to sleep and cause headaches, discomfort and swelling — among other more serious concerns. The tell-tale signs of a circulation problem are… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

High triglycerides promote abdominal aortic aneurysm

A University of Michigan study has shown that high levels of triglycerides play a direct and pathogenic role in the development, growth, and rupture of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).

An AAA is a bulge in the part of the aorta that travels through the abdomen. The bulge forms in an area where the aorta’s wall has grown weak, putting it at risk of bursting under the constant pressure of blood flow.

Signs of an AAA include abdominal pain, back pain, groin pain, and a pulsating feeling in the abdomen. If the aneurysm ruptures, massive bleeding can cause death within minutes.

The research at Michigan Medicine using three different mouse models demonstrated a triglyceride dose-dependent effect on AAA severity:

• Moderate elevations in triglycerides accelerated aneurysm formation, while higher levels led to aortic dissection.
• Mice with severely elevated triglyceride concentrations developed more severe complications consistent with aortic rupture.

The investigation also revealed that elevated triglycerides and related fatty acids, particularly palmitate, impaired the maturation and activity of lysyl oxidase. This critical enzyme maintains the structure and integrity of the aortic wall. The dysfunction caused by palmitate helped to weaken connective tissue and promote aneurysm progression.

Palmitate is the most common saturated fatty acid, found in both animals and plants, and is abundant in foods such as meat, milk, cheese, and particularly palm oil. It has some beneficial roles in cellular processes but is known to contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance.

Palm oil is a cheap substitute for butter or other refined vegetable oils, making it especially common in pastry dough and baked goods. These, along with other ultra-processed foods, have already been identified as drivers of disease.

Peak Krill Oil^™

Supports Heart Health, Immunity and Moods, Naturally!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Lowering triglycerides could save your life

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are more common in men and among people age 65 and older — and are usually caused by atherosclerosis.

And if you haven’t guessed, high triglycerides are linked to the increased risk for atherosclerosis — or hardening of the arteries.

Of course, we know the best way to keep your arteries clear is to eat healthily. Start with avoiding ultraprocessed foods, like:

• Sweets and baked goods
• Refined grains
• Fried foods
• Unhealthy oils, including palm oil
• Fatty and processed meats, including bacon and sausage
• High-fat dairy
• Processed snacks like chips and crackers
• Alcohol

Instead, reach for:

• Leafy greens like kale and cruciferous veggies (broccoli and cauliflower)
• Black beans
• Fresh fruit on pancakes instead of syrup
• White meat chicken and fish, like salmon and cod
• Oils like olive oil, flaxseed oil and fish oil (canola oil can be a healthy substitution as well)
• Avocados, berries, citrus, apples, bananas and kiwi contain fiber and antioxidants that help lower triglycerides (avoid fruit juices high in sugar)

For more tips, see what cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Klodas recommends for lowering triglycerides and how to know when high triglyceride levels are genetically driven.

Sources:

High triglycerides drive life-threatening aortic aneurysms, study in mice finds — Eureka Alert

Hypertriglyceridemia as a Key Contributor to Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Development and Rupture: Insights From Genetic and Experimental Models — Circulation

Lifestyle changes to reduce triglycerides — National Lipid Association

Foods to Avoid If You Have High Triglycerides — Web MD

The post High triglycerides linked to abdominal aortic aneurysm appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But this belief about eggs has turned out to be much ado about nothing. In fact, research indicates that the opposite may be true — and that it’s another side on your breakfast plate that could be the real villain in the cholesterol war…

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»

The dietary paradox of the egg

In a world-first study, Australian researchers examined the independent effects of dietary cholesterol (like the kind in eggs) and saturated fat (like the kind in bacon and sausage) on LDL cholesterol. LDL is the “bad” kind of cholesterol that causes plaque buildup in the arteries.

The participants in the study were assigned to three different diets, each of which was followed for five weeks. The first was a diet high in cholesterol (660 mg/day) and low in saturated fat (6%) that included two eggs a day. The second was a low cholesterol (300 mg/day), high saturated fat (12%) diet without eggs. And the third was a diet high in cholesterol (600 mg/day) and saturated fat (12%), which included one egg a week.

What the researchers discovered put the lie to the egg’s bad reputation. By separating the effects of cholesterol and saturated fat, they found the high dietary cholesterol from eggs wasn’t the problem.

“Instead, it was the saturated fat that was the real driver of cholesterol elevation,” says lead researcher Jon Buckley, a professor at the University of South Australia.

That wasn’t all. The researchers discovered that eating two eggs a day, as long as it was part of a diet low in saturated fat, can actually reduce LDL cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease.

Buckley says this evidence shows it’s time to rethink the egg’s bad reputation.

“Eggs have long been unfairly cracked by outdated dietary advice,” he says. “They’re unique – high in cholesterol, yes, but low in saturated fat. Yet it’s their cholesterol level that has often caused people to question their place in a healthy diet.”

Peak BP Platinum^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Hold the bacon

This is excellent news for people who love having eggs for breakfast, but it’s more bad news for those who prefer a side of bacon or sausage with their eggs.

These processed, fatty meats have already been linked to CVD and a host of other health problems, including cancer and a significantly higher risk of memory loss and dementia.

The bottom line: as delicious as these breakfast meats are, it’s best to skip them and take your eggs with a side of fruit or whole-grain toast.

What about having cheese with your omelet or scrambled eggs? Unfortunately, many cheeses are high in saturated fat, including cheddar (19%), American (13%) and Swiss (8%). The good news is that there are low-fat versions of these cheeses available, so use one of those, and you can enjoy your cheese omelet guilt-free.

Finally, make sure you cook your eggs in a heart-healthy, non-tropical oil like olive oil. The American Heart Association also recommends heart-healthy canola oil, but bear in mind this oil has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease.

Sources:

Eggs are off the hook—study reveals bacon’s the real heart risk — ScienceDaily

Impact of dietary cholesterol from eggs and saturated fat on LDL cholesterol levels: a randomized cross-over study — The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Which Cheeses Are Low in Fat and Cholesterol? — Verywell Health

The post The real cholesterol culprit cracked: It’s not eggs appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Meat? Alcohol? Salt? Sweets?

That’s what we’ve been told over the years. I don’t know about you, but I’d like a little more proof before I restrict myself further — and we just may have it…

If you want to improve your heart health in as little as eight weeks, there’s one diet that you should be following.

But according to a Stanford professor, even taking a shot at it can have significant benefits.

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»

Twin study puts food on the line

Although mounting evidence appears to indicate that meat can wreak havoc on your ventricles, arteries and heart function and that eating less meat improves cardiovascular health, scientists working to prove this have had a hard time accounting for differences in genetics, upbringing and lifestyle choices in their subjects.

But in a study with 22 pairs of identical twins, Stanford researchers have eliminated these obstacles and have proven that a vegan diet improves heart health in an incredibly short amount of time…

An eight-week trial was conducted in the spring of 2022. The participants were 22 pairs of healthy identical twins selected from the Stanford Twin Registry, a database of twins who have agreed to participate in research studies.

One twin from each pair was assigned either a vegan diet or an omnivore diet.

Both diets were healthy. Both were full of vegetables and fruits, legumes and whole grains and free of sugars and refined starches. While the vegan diet was entirely plant-based, the omnivore diet included chicken, fish, eggs, cheese and dairy products.

Anyone can follow this diet for a healthier heart

During the first four weeks, a meal service delivered 21 meals per week — seven breakfasts, lunches and dinners. For the remaining four weeks, the participants prepared their own meals.

During the first four weeks, participants with a vegan diet had significantly lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, insulin and body weight — all of which are associated with improved cardiovascular health — than the omnivore participants.

“Our study used a generalizable diet that is accessible to anyone because 21 out of the 22 vegans followed through with the diet [in the second four weeks],” says Dr. Christopher Gardner, a professor at the Stanford Prevention Research Center.

“This suggests that anyone who chooses a vegan diet can improve their long-term health in two months, with the most change seen in the first month.”

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 important thing: more plant-based foods

According to Dr. Gardner, the vegan participants did the three most important things to improve cardiovascular health: they cut back on saturated fats, increased dietary fiber and lost weight.

“A vegan diet can confer additional benefits such as increased gut bacteria and the reduction of telomere loss, which slows aging in the body,” he says.

Dr. Gardner himself has been “mostly vegan” for the last 40 years.

But while most people will probably not go totally vegan, Dr. Gardner says that even a small move in the direction of a plant-based diet can improve their health.

“What’s more important than going strictly vegan is including more plant-based foods into your diet.”

Just adding one cup of vegetables a day can lower the risk of heart problems between 12 to 26 percent, according to research.

Tomatoes have been found to lower blood pressure by 36 percent.

And don’t forget fruit. Blueberries contain a heart-protective antioxidant called pterostilbene that has powerful effects on blood pressure.

But if you do want to eat much less meat, the “green” Mediterranean diet is a great start. This version of the traditional Mediterranean diet includes more plant-based foods and lesser amounts of red meat and poultry.

In previous research, the “green” Mediterranean diet helped study participants lose more weight, lower cholesterol and blood pressure and beat insulin resistance in just six months.

If it gets confusing, just follow the advice that cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Klodas often shares: Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants.

Sources:

Twin research indicates that a vegan diet improves cardiovascular health — Science Daily

Cardiometabolic Effects of Omnivorous vs Vegan Diets in Identical Twins — JAMA

Blurb: Yes, we know that a vegan diet can make you healthier. But not all of us can stick to it. Not to worry, says a Stanford doctor. Just make a move in that direction, and you can have a stronger heart in as little as 8 weeks!

The post The diet that improved heart health in just 8 weeks 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®.

Given that this is a normal physiologic process and not a disease, menopause is supposed to be something women just endure and move beyond. But if you’ve been through it yourself or are in the midst of “the change,” you’ve probably realized that nothing about this process feels even remotely normal!

That is, unless you think hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness, urinary urgency and incontinence, weight gain, decreased libido, thinning hair and skin, memory and concentration problems, joint and muscle pain — not to mention heart palpitations and out-of-nowhere high LDL — are all normal!

I don’t typically venture outside of conditions that I manage. I’m a cardiologist. I deal with chest pain and EKGs. But I felt compelled to write this blog series because I continue to see so many female patients suffering with many of the symptoms related to menopause while being denied — or fearful of — a proven life-enhancing intervention. All based on faulty data.

I’m talking about hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

You’ve probably heard the warnings: It causes breast cancer. It’s dangerous. It does more harm than good. These statements have become medical dogma. But they are outdated, oversimplified, and in many cases — flat-out wrong.

Peak Bladder Support^™

For women, age, childbirth, menopause and hormone fluctuations take a toll on healthy urinary function. For men, an aging body may result in the need for bladder support. Whatever the cause, occasional urinary urgency can… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Why HRT Deserves a Second Look

If you’re a woman navigating perimenopause or menopause, what you’ve been told about HRT — or what you think you know about HRT — could be standing between you and a dramatically better life.

This blog series is meant to give you the knowledge you need to not only help yourself through this time (and beyond) but also understand a treatment option that is out there. So that you can have a more informed conversation with your care provider.

To be clear — I am NOT advocating that every woman should go on HRT. But every woman should at least be given the opportunity to determine for themselves if it is right for them.

The Whole-Body Impact of Sex Hormones

First, here’s something really important you need to understand: Sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) don’t just have roles in reproduction and sex drive. Receptors for these hormones exist all over our bodies! Not surprisingly, menopause-related whole-body reductions in sex hormone levels have far-reaching effects.

Hormones and Bladder Health

One organ impacted by those far-reaching effects is the bladder. It happens to be very hormone-sensitive. And not just in terms of maintaining urinary continence. When estrogen levels decline, the microbiome of the bladder and vagina changes, making postmenopausal women far more susceptible to urinary tract infections. Indeed, about 20% of women over age 65 will develop a UTI, with close to 1/3 of these experiencing recurrent infections.

Hormones and Bone Loss

The skeletal system is a major casualty. In the absence of estrogen, women can lose as much as 20% of their bone density in the first 5 years post-menopause, with bone loss slowing down to about 1% per year thereafter. As a result, one in two women over age 50 will experience an osteoporosis-related bone fracture. This is incredibly serious — a hip fracture can be a terminal event. Close to 30% of hip fracture patients will not survive one year. And even if a woman makes it past that, the odds of her getting back to prior levels of activity are low.

Peak Urinary Tract^™

A natural daily cleanse to promote and maintain a healthy urinary tract, for men and women!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Hormones and Brain Function

Brain? The risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s is significantly higher for women. The role of sex hormones is not fully worked out here, but even in the shorter term, sleep disturbance can become a huge issue affecting mental clarity.  Estrogen and progesterone help drive circadian rhythms, and the wild fluctuations in their levels during perimenopause can do a number on the sleep cycle. Plus, it’s hard to sleep when you’re drenched in sweat.

Hormones and Heart Disease

As a cardiologist, I see this in my practice almost daily. Heart rhythm disturbances become more common around menopause, probably due to a combination of factors — especially sleep disturbance. Fortunately, most of these rhythm issues are benign. But that doesn’t mean they feel good! Cholesterol profiles almost universally get worse as LDL receptors become less active. As a result heart disease risk accelerates rapidly in postmenopausal women, reaching par with men of equal age about 10 years post our hormonal upheaval.

Menopause-Related Impact on Life Quality

Add vaginal dryness and loss of libido and you have a marked decline in quality of life — right around the halfway point in women’s lifespans.

These may all be “natural” consequences of changes in hormone levels, but are we just supposed to sit back and accept all that?

Would MEN accept all that??

This is part one of a five-part series. See:

Menopause and the Big Lie , Part 1

Menopuase and the Big Lie, Part 2

Menopause and the big lie: The facts they left out, Part 3

Menopause and the big lie: The lasting impact, Part 4

The post Menopause and the big lie appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

She immediately followed the doctor’s instructions for diet and supplements, but she had one question to which the doctor couldn’t give a satisfying answer:

“Is there anything I could have done to prevent this?”

Right now, the short answer to that is no. AMD has no known cause, and while there are treatments to slow progression, there is no cure.

But scientists are looking to change that. They’re digging deeper into the mechanisms of the disease — and what they’re discovering is fascinating…

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Your body is exposed to an onslaught of chemicals and pollutants daily. Once inside, they travel a superhighway – your circulatory system – reaching every inch of your body and interfering with vital functions. Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™ is formulated with nutrients that help flush these harmful toxins out of your body! MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The key could be a molecule that maintains healthy cholesterol

An international team of researchers led by the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (WashU Medicine) used human plasma samples and mouse models of AMD to explore a specific link with cardiovascular disease, both of which worsen with age.

The reason they chose to focus on that connection is that in AMD, doctors can see cholesterol-rich deposits under the retina during an eye exam, according to senior author Dr. Rajendra S. Apte, a professor at WashU Medicine.

While vision might still be normal in the early stages, the deposits increase inflammation and other damaging processes that lead to a gradual loss of central vision.

In recent years, investigators have discovered that a molecule called apolipoprotein M (ApoM) exhibits anti-inflammatory effects and plays a role in maintaining healthy cholesterol metabolism. Levels of ApoM tend to fall with age.

Dr. Apte and co-senior author Dr. Ali Javaheri, also a professor at WashU Medicine, aimed to investigate whether reduced levels of ApoM contribute to the dysfunctional cholesterol metabolism underlying multiple diseases of aging, including AMD and heart disease.

They demonstrated that patients with AMD have lower levels of ApoM in their blood compared to healthy patients. And past research by Javaheri showed patients with various forms of heart failure also had lower levels of ApoM.

This study revealed that ApoM is a key component in the “good cholesterol” pathways that clean up excess “bad” cholesterol — the kind that tends to drive inflammation — and clear it from the body through the liver.

This suggests that when ApoM levels are low, cells in the retina and heart muscle are unable to metabolize cholesterol deposits correctly and have difficulty clearing the accumulating lipids. When they build up, it leads to inflammation and cellular damage.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Effects of low ApoM could be reversible

To see if they could reverse the harmful effects of low ApoM, the researchers increased ApoM levels in mouse models of macular degeneration. The mice showed evidence of improved retinal health, improved function of light-sensing cells in the retina and reduced accumulation of cholesterol deposits.

In short, the results suggest increasing ApoM in the blood could fix problems in cholesterol processing that lead to cellular damage in the eyes and other organs.

“Our study points to a possible way to address a major unmet clinical need,” Apte says. “Current therapies that reduce the chance of further vision loss are limited to only the most advanced stages of macular degeneration and do not reverse the disease. Our findings suggest that developing treatments that increase ApoM levels could treat or even prevent the disease and therefore preserve people’s vision as they age.”

The findings also could have implications for raising ApoM in patients with heart failure.

You may be wondering if there’s any way we can support our own ApoM levels. There is some evidence that berberine, a naturally occurring compound found in certain plants, may increase ApoM levels to protect the gut-vascular barrier. Sources of berberine include European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, phellodendron and tree turmeric.

Berberine is available in supplement form, but be aware that it interacts with several medications. It’s important to check with your doctor first before using it.

Another study in mice showed that niacin increased ApoM gene and protein expression levels. This vitamin is present in foods such as yeast, milk, meat and cereals. Although you can take niacin supplements, you’re likely getting enough of the vitamin from your diet.

If you do take a niacin supplement, don’t take more than what is recommended, or you could end up causing another problem for your eyes — a rare toxic reaction called niacin-induced maculopathy.

Sources:

The molecule that might save your sight—and your heart — ScienceDaily

Apolipoprotein M attenuates age-related macular degeneration phenotypes via sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling and lysosomal lipid catabolism — Nature Communications

Berberine reduces gut-vascular barrier permeability via modulation of ApoM/S1P pathway in a model of polymicrobial sepsis — Life Sciences

Berberine – Uses, Side Effects, and More — WebMD

Niacin regulates apolipoprotein M expression via liver X receptor‑α — Molecular Medicine Report

Niacin — Mayo Clinic

The post A cholesterol cure to save your heart and your vision 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®.

In fact, at one point he threatened to start sleeping in the guest room if I didn’t wear warm socks to bed instead of warming my cold toes up on his legs.

Well, that was before I got my Hashimoto’s under control. But if you’re dealing with cold toes and you don’t have a thyroid problem, don’t ignore this distress call…

That’s because cold feet can be a sign of a serious circulation problem that may start in the small blood vessels — but can signal big trouble…

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

Amazing “Can’t be Beet” Superfood Helps Keep Nitric Oxide Levels Up!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Blood vessels and your feet

Since your circulatory system is responsible for head-to-toe blood flow — the blood vessels in your feet can often sound the first alarm of problems to come.

That’s because your heart works extra hard to pump blood through arteries that reach vital organs, like the brain.

But by the time your blood vessels reach your feet, they’ve branched in numerous directions, getting smaller and smaller in size much in the same twigs branch off of a tree.

And it’s these smaller vessels where trouble can quickly escalate…

Tiny little masses called microemboli, made up of blobs of cholesterol, can get stuck.

While these little clots, also known as emboli, pass easily through large vessels, they struggle to pass through as vessels become smaller— making it easy to cut off the blood supply to your toes.

Two signs you shouldn’t miss

When this happens, your feet are going to sound an alarm — and it won’t just be cold feet…

It’s feet that are so cold they’ll be painful and even change color, turning blue or purple.

Doctors call it blue toe syndrome.

It can be dangerous because when the tissues of your feet are starved of oxygen, it can lead to cell death, gangrene and even amputation of the toes and feet.

What’s worse is that the microemboli that cause blue toe syndrome can indicate a potentially serious problem in larger arteries that are upstream from these little guys.

Other signs that could indicate blue toe syndrome include:

• Foot pain
• Muscle pain in the legs
• Ulcers on the feet
• Nodules or lesions on the feet
• Bruising

Be sure to let your doctor know if any of these are occurring.

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Helps flush harmful toxins from your body that interfere with vital functions!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Supporting head-to-toe blood flow

The little clots that clog small vessels are typically made up of cholesterol and fibrin. Often they have broken off from a plaque forming in a larger artery.

Fibrin is a protein the body uses under normal circumstances to keep a clot from spreading while tissue heals. When the clot is no longer needed it dissolves. But sometimes the process doesn’t go as expected, depending on the health of the arteries involved.

That’s where nattokinase, an enzyme from a fermented soybean dish called natto, is especially helpful…

Nattokinase was discovered over 40 years ago by a Japanese medical researcher named Hiroyuki Sumi, M.D., who demonstrated its ability to support blood flow. It works in much the same way as Pac-Man^®… going to work to thin the blood for smooth circulation.

You can find natto at your local Asian or Japanese market. But most Americans don’t like the texture, taste or smell. But that doesn’t have to be a deterrent…

The benefits of nattokinase have been researched in over 17 scientific studies — including human clinical trials — and supplements are an option. According to the University of Cincinnati, a single dose of Nattokinase at 100 mg was enough to show an enhancement in both thrombolysis while also assisting anti-coagulation profiles.

Since nattokinase does a great job of promoting normal circulation, if you’re taking blood thinners you should consult with your health care practitioner first.

What is blue toe syndrome — Medical News Today

Blue Toe Syndrome — DermaNet

An often overlooked body part could give you clues about your health – CNN

The post The weird warning your feet send about your blood vessels appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Coronary artery disease, also called coronary heart disease, is the most common type of heart disease.

There are many ways to protect your heart. The foods you eat (and don’t eat), the amount of exercise you do, and whether you smoke, all have a very real effect on your chances of becoming a heart disease statistic.

Recently, research has uncovered an intimate connection between heart health and the health of another organ, one that performs at least one hundred vital functions throughout the body.

It turns out that protecting your liver may also significantly impact your risk of coronary artery disease.

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Research connects the liver to coronary artery disease

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland are investigating the relationships between genetic factors that influence heart and liver disease.

For example, they’ve found that a significant portion of the genetic activity regulating cholesterol and glucose takes place in the liver.

“High cholesterol and dysregulation of the liver metabolism, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, confer an increased risk of CAD,” write the investigators.

“Overall, our findings expand the list of genes and regulatory mechanisms acting in the liver and governing the risk of CAD (coronary artery disease) development,” says Associate Professor Kaikkonen-Määttä.

There’s not a lot that you and I can do about the genes we’re born with. However, research has indicated that lifestyle choices can influence the expression of genetic factors.

This research certainly gives us reason to pay attention to the fact that, in the United States, 4.5 million of us are being diagnosed with liver disease each year. In 2018, there were nearly 3 million liver-related deaths. Roughly half were due to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a disease caused by eating excess calories and causing fat to build up in the liver.

It also serves as a wake-up call to adopt lifestyle habits that will protect both the heart and the liver. Here’s how to get started…

Peak Blood Flow^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

7+ things that will protect your liver AND your heart

Maintain a healthy weight. At least half of those with obesity go on to develop NAFLD. So this is the first place you should start.

But DON’T fall for fad diets. Stay away from diets that boost fat intake, like the ketogenic diet. According to studies done with mice, the keto diet can lead to NAFLD.

Go Mediterranean. Dr. Hugo Rosen, a liver disease specialist and chair of medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, recommends eating a well-balanced diet that includes high-fiber foods, vegetables, fruits, fish, lean meats, nuts, eggs, seeds and unrefined oils.

Get moving. Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise can improve liver health, whether you’ve already developed NAFLD or are looking to prevent it.

Eat more berries. Eating a cup of blueberries per day could lower your risk of heart disease by up to fifteen percent. Additionally, one study found that incorporating blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and cranberries into your diet can lower levels of ALT, an enzyme associated with liver damage.

Try tomatoes. Tomatoes contain the antioxidant lycopene — known to reduce the risk of CAD — and potassium, essential for heart health. Tomatoes also contain chlorine and sulfur, which help detoxify the liver.

Support your liver. Silymarin, more commonly known as milk thistle, has been used to support and detoxify the liver since ancient Greek times. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is derived from an amino acid in the body and is a powerful detoxifier. It may also prevent the routine metabolic declines associated with aging.

Sources:

Many genes associated with the risk of coronary artery disease act through the liver — Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News

Fad diets could contribute to liver disease known as a ‘silent killer’ — HSC News (University of Southern California)

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and NASH — National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Good for your heart, good for your liver, too — Joseph Galati, M.D.

The post The liver link to coronary artery disease appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

And if your numbers weren’t just right, you may have been prescribed statins. Your doctor may have even warned about muscle pain, a well-known side effect of the drug. But that’s not the complete picture…

The list of side effects has grown to include everything from an increased risk of diabetes and cataracts to accelerated onset of Parkinson’s and double the risk for dementia.

Unfortunately, the guidelines for prescribing statins aren’t so cut and dry, as few cardiologists will tell you, but they’re also not the only answer for tackling cholesterol…

There’s an ancient seed that could offer significant improvements in cholesterol without that laundry list of side effects.

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»

The history of Nigella sativa

The Nigella sativa plant, famous for its black seed, grows on a small shrub with green leaves and white and purplish flowers.

Although you can find the plant growing worldwide, its origins are believed to be in North Africa and Asia.

In fact, Egyptian Kings and Queens treasured the oil pressed from the seed as a remedy that offered whole-body protection, calling it the Pharaoh’s Oil. History shows it was so popular it was mentioned in the bible, and King Tut wanted to be buried with it for use in the afterlife.

Black seed, also called black cumin seed, is treasured thanks to its bioactive components, especially thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone.

Because of the therapeutic potential of these natural actives, studies have been done on Nigella sativa to see how it can improve blood sugar, weight, immune function, and liver and kidney protection. It has also been investigated as a way to reduce spasms, relieve pain and fight off germs and infections — and much more.

And, of course, researchers have been highly interested in the seed’s effect on cholesterol.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Study after study shows cholesterol benefits

So what have they found?

Let’s break down the research…

One study asked sedentary overweight women to take either a placebo or 2,000 mg of Nigella sativa for eight weeks while also participating in an aerobics training program. 

The results showed the group supplementing Nigella sativa experienced:

• A five percent increase in HDL levels (good cholesterol)
• A decrease in total cholesterol levels of five percent or greater
• A reduction in LDL cholesterol of up to seven percent (the bad cholesterol)
• An eight to 16 percent reduction in triglyceride levels

Additional studies have demonstrated that:

• In people with metabolic syndrome, black seed oil significantly elevated blood HDL and lowered LDL.
• In patients with high cholesterol, 1,000 mg of the oil per day for two months before breakfast lowered total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides while increasing HDL.
• When comparing statin use versus Nigella sativa plus statins in people with acute coronary syndrome, total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides were considerably lower when adding in the oil than in the statin alone group.
• In men with cholesterol problems and high blood pressure taking either a placebo or 100/200 mg of black seed oil two times daily, researchers found nigella sativa improved all cholesterol numbers. They saw more improvements as the dose went up.

That’s a lot of research pointing to one thing…

Nigella sativa or black seed oil could be a valuable aid for improving cholesterol naturally.

Even though the seed is a surprisingly popular Mediterranean spice, it’s also available in supplement form.

Sources:

The Effects of 8-week Nigella sativa Supplementation and Aerobic Training on Lipid Profile and VO2 max in Sedentary Overweight Females  — NCBI

A review on hypo-cholesterolemic activity of Nigella sativa seeds and its extracts — NIH

Using Black Seed to Lower Cholesterol — Verywell health

The post The seed that takes down bad cholesterol and raises good appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

From nutrition to skin care, this “ancestral fat” is definitely having its moment.

So, should you just jump on the bandwagon?

What Is Beef Tallow and How Is It Made?

Beef tallow is created by taking the fat that surrounds the internal organs of a cow, cooking that fat down, and straining out the impurities. It’s a way for beef processors to use every part of the animal in order to make useable products — and turn a bigger profit. 

Beef tallow is stable both at room temperature and high heat and, until relatively recently, was the go-to fat for frying and baking. It’s also been used to make candles and soap.

When concerns around the health effects of saturated fats emerged in the 20th century, vegetable oils and margarines largely replaced beef tallow in industrial food production. Around the same time, rates of chronic disease and obesity rose, providing ammunition for beef tallow evangelists — especially within the keto, paleo and carnivore communities.

But as we learned from the seed oils blog series and my post on lectins, one data point does NOT an open and shut case make.

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»

Beef Tallow Nutrition Facts: Saturated Fat, Calories, and Vitamins

Beef tallow is made up of about 55% saturated fatty acids (SFAs), 40% monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and 5% polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). 

By comparison, canola oil is made up of about 5% SFAs, 65% MUFAs and 30% PUFAs.  Tallow also contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K2), though in relatively small amounts.  

With such a high percentage of SFAs, beef tallow is classified as a saturated fat and falls in the same nutritional category as butter, cheese, cream, lard and coconut oil.

Does Beef Tallow Raise Cholesterol and Heart Disease Risk?

Saturated fat can be a strong down-regulator of LDL receptors. If you’ve read some of my previous blogs, you already know that LDL receptor function is important for clearance of LDL from the bloodstream. In other words, if LDL receptor function is diminished, LDL levels go up. Sometimes way up. I have seen patients that go on a keto diet and end up with LDLs in ranges typically reserved for those with Familial Hypercholesterolemia!

But please don’t be fooled by claims that the high LDL you get by eating saturated fat is OK because LDL is now all “big” particles! A high LDL reading means that there are still lots of LDL particles circulating in your bloodstream, and particle size does not rescue you in that setting. Most importantly, if your LDL receptors are downregulated such that you’re not using the LDL for other functions, the only place that cholesterol can go is into artery walls. 

And make sure you also ignore the rhetoric that some of the saturated fat in beef tallow is stearic acid and that makes it better. Stearic acid is a saturated fat found in high amounts in cocoa beans and chocolate and does NOT raise LDL cholesterol. However, beef tallow contains much less stearic acid compared to chocolate — and the rest of the saturated fatty acids in beef tallow DO raise LDL.  

Beef Tallow, Fatty Liver, and Insulin Resistance: What’s the Link?

Like all fats, beef tallow is calorie dense, delivering 9 calories per gram. So overdoing it even modestly but consistently can get you into trouble… fast. Turns out saturated fat is especially good at accumulating in the liver — much more so than unsaturated fat.  

Liver fat accumulation sets off a vicious cycle of metabolic changes that leads to insulin resistance, which can lead to prediabetes and, eventually, type 2 diabetes. Liver fat accumulation can also damage the liver itself, causing fatty liver disease, a condition as serious as liver disease caused by chronic excess alcohol consumption.  

Can Beef Tallow Cause Inflammation?

Although seed oils have been maligned for being pro-inflammatory, saturated fats — including beef tallow — also influence inflammatory pathways.

Saturated fats have been found to “short circuit” immune cells, upregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines, and negatively affect the microbiome, all leading to a higher inflammatory load. 

Peak Vitality^™

Peak Vitality^™ helps support and strengthen adrenal gland function for improved energy, hormone balance, mood and focus!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Beef Tallow and Chronic Disease: Why Context Matters in Nutrition

Advocates of beef tallow and other saturated fats point to the relative absence of chronic disease in traditional societies with high animal fat consumption. However, these societies also:

• Engaged in high levels of physical activity
• Ate minimal processed food
• Had overall balanced calorie intake 
• Ate a greater variety of foods in general, including various plants, leading to a more diverse microbiome 

In other words, as I’ve noted before, we can never look at one nutrient or ingredient in isolation. We are complex organisms living in complex environments while consuming a complex mixture of foods. It’s not the beef tallow or the seed oils that is the problem. It’s the “with what” and “instead of what” that is the bigger concern. 

Should You Eat Beef Tallow? The Bottom Line

Beef tallow is a real food, derived from natural sources. As such, it is not inherently toxic. However, it is NOT a “health food” nor the answer to all our ills. Context matters.

Occasional beef tallow consumption may be benign as part of a nutrient-rich, calorie-controlled, plant-inclusive diet. (Need I say it? Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants. Honestly, never gets old.)  However, regular use in the setting of a nutrient-poor or calorie-excess diet poses real long-term health risks. 

So much so that individuals favoring high beef tallow (or other saturated fat) consumption, should be regularly monitored with lab tests, including cholesterol, blood sugar, and liver function parameters.

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr, the US Secretary of Health and Human Services, has declared that beef tallow is healthier than seed oils and is encouraging food companies to use it preferentially. Restaurants like Steak ‘n Shake and Sweetgreen have already made the switch.   

And as far as his opinion, it’s just an opinion. Made by an individual who is not a healthcare provider or nutrition expert. Although I applaud his stance on food additives and ultra-processed foods, as someone who takes care of patients and witnesses what happens with various dietary approaches, I can say without hesitation that he doesn’t get everything right.

Oh — and in case you’re wondering whether you should put this stuff on your face, beef tallow acts like an occlusive barrier rather than a moisturizer. So, it won’t eliminate wrinkles outright although it might aid in the absorption of what you put underneath — like vitamin C serum or retinoic acid. But I suspect you won’t much enjoy the scent! And if you are prone to acne, you might truly regret it.

The post Beef tallow: Benefits, risks and truths behind the trend appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

If your doctor tells you that your cholesterol is high, particularly your LDL  (“bad” cholesterol) and triglycerides — and you do nothing to address it — you could set yourself up for a heart attack or stroke.

The good news is that eating the right foods can significantly lower your cholesterol in as little as three to six months.

And while that may seem like a long time, it’s a drop in the bucket compared with the months and years of healthy life you’ll gain.

There are a lot of diet plans out there to lower cholesterol.

But one of my favorite foods is outdoing them all…

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»

Pecans: The easier route to better cholesterol

The Step 1 Diet is a set of guidelines recommended by the American Heart Association to lower cholesterol and thus the risk of heart disease in otherwise healthy people.

In a 2001 study from the School of Public Health at Loma Linda University in California, subjects eating a pecan-enriched diet lowered their LDL cholesterol by a full 10% beyond those eating a Step 1 Diet.

Another study in 2023 compared consuming pecans to the cholesterol-lowering effects of exercise. Those results showed:

• An average drop of 5% in total cholesterol and between 6% and 9% in LDL among participants who consumed pecans;
• By contrast, a meta-analysis of exercise interventions designed to lower cholesterol reported an average reduction of 1% in total cholesterol and 5% in LDL.

Brand-new research is once again confirming the power of pecans to lower cholesterol…  

In the latest study at Penn State’s Department of Nutritional Sciences, 138 adults with one or more criteria for metabolic syndrome were assigned to one of two groups:

• In one group, participants ate two ounces of pecans per day in place of their regular snacks;
• In the other group, participants did not change their snacking habits.

After 12 weeks, the pecan snackers showed reductions in total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides, compared to the non-pecan snackers.

Noteworthy was that pecan snackers showed a reduced ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol.

HDL is the “good” cholesterol that carries cholesterol back to the liver for removal from the body. Improving this ratio, along with reducing LDL, further reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Peak Blood Flow^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

More benefits of pecans and how to enjoy them

Pecans are my favorite nut — their smooth, buttery flavor is truly unique.

A one-ounce serving of pecans contains 17% of the recommended daily value of copper, a difficult mineral to come by.

And that same one-ounce serving of pecans offers a whopping 63% of your daily dose of manganese. In combination with other minerals, manganese is essential for bone health.

Besides controlling cholesterol, other health benefits you’ll get from eating pecans include:

• better digestion
• reduced inflammation
• improved memory
• clearer skin
• stronger bones

You don’t have to resort to pulling the pecans out of your pecan pie to enjoy this delicious and healthful nut.

One of the most delicious ways to eat pecans is to roast them. It’s easy to do…

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a 350° oven, spread the nuts and toast them for about five minutes. The key here is to watch them carefully since they are easily scorched. When you smell that aromatic pecan smell, they’re probably done.

Pecans add a delicious crunch to cereals, salads and yogurt. And there’s nothing wrong with eating them raw, with berries or dried fruit.

Sources:

Replacing other snacks with pecans may improve cholesterol, diet quality — Eureka Alert

A monounsaturated fatty acid-rich pecan-enriched diet favorably alters the serum lipid profile of healthy men and women — Journal of Nutrition

6 ways this forgotten health nut can improve your health — Easy Health Options

The post The snack swap that takes cholesterol down appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

This could be because the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force advises healthcare professionals to prescribe statins in patients ages 40 to 75 who have at least one risk factor for heart disease, such as diabetes or dyslipidemia, and an estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk of 10 percent or more.

However, there is a dark side to statins. Their side effects can include severe muscle pain and kidney damage. And evidence suggests they can double your risk of dementia and triple your risk of diabetes.

Plus, statins have been linked in recent studies to cataracts. In fact, one study suggests they can as much as quadruple your risk!

And that’s not the only vision issue that’s been connected to statin use….

Peak Blood Flow^™

Poor circulation can impact your eyesight, your ability to sleep and cause headaches, discomfort and swelling — among other more serious concerns. The tell-tale signs of a circulation problem are… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Statins and glaucoma

Researchers conducted a cross-sectional, population-based study of over 79,000 patients ages 40 and older in the All of Us (AoU) Research Program to see whether there was an association between statin use and glaucoma. This eye disease can damage the optic nerve and lead to blindness if left untreated.

According to Dr. Victoria Tseng, of the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, high cholesterol can impact circulation quality throughout the body, with poor blood circulation to the optic nerve worsening glaucoma.

“Statins work to lower cholesterol levels so the question is whether they can also alter the risk of glaucoma,” Tseng says.

A large study published in 2012 tied use of statins for two years to a decreased risk of progressing from glaucoma to open-angle glaucoma compared to those who received no statin therapy.

The results of the newer study weren’t as rosy…

Tseng and her colleagues separated the results of their study based on whether participants had optimal, near-optimal, borderline high, high or very high levels of LDL.

But not only did they find a link between statin use and a higher likelihood of glaucoma in adults with high cholesterol — but even in those whose LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind) was in the optimal range.

Tseng observes that those with healthier LDL levels may have reached them by using statins. Statin use was significantly associated with glaucoma among participants with optimal and high levels of LDL. There was no association in the other LDL level groups, Tseng notes.

There was also a positive connection between statin use and the prevalence of glaucoma in participants aged 60 to 69 years.

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Helps flush harmful toxins from your body that interfere with vital functions!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

A complicated picture

“Most previous studies have suggested no association or a protective association between statins and glaucoma,” Tseng tells MedPage Today. “Our finding of increased glaucoma in statin users suggests that things may be more complicated than previously discussed.”

“It could be that statin users had worse hyperlipidemia, which is why they needed statins,” she adds. “So, the statins could be a proxy for worse circulation to the optic nerve.”

Tseng says more research is needed to understand whether the statins themselves might be responsible for the higher glaucoma rates. This would include exploration of associations between different types of lipid measurements, vascular circulation in the optic nerve and any changes that result with statin use.

For now, Tseng recommends ophthalmologists check the cardiovascular status of patients and their use of related medications. “These may all be factors contributing to glaucoma risk either positively or negatively and may make the glaucoma disease not behave as typically as expected,” she says.

In the meantime, if you’re using statins, it’s probably a good idea to check your glaucoma risk. Some factors putting you at higher risk include:

• Being over age 60
• Being of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent
• Having relatives with glaucoma
• Being very nearsighted (myopic) or far-sighted (hyperopic)
• Using steroid medications
• Having high eye pressure
• Having a thin central cornea
• Having had an eye injury

Suppose you have any of these risk factors and are on a statin. In that case, you may want to talk to your doctor about switching to a different medication. But medication may not be your only choice. You may be able to adjust your cardiovascular risk with lifestyle changes such as following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, losing weight and not smoking or drinking alcohol.

Sources:

 Statin Use Linked to Higher Risk of Glaucoma — MedPage Today

Associations between Statin Use and Glaucoma in the All of Us Research Program — Ophthalmology Glaucoma

Glaucoma Risks — Glaucoma Research Foundation

Lipophilic statin use linked to increased risk of dementia — EurekAlert!

Association of Common and Rare Genetic Variation in the 3‐Hydroxy‐3‐Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase Gene and Cataract Risk — Journal of the Amerian Heart Association

The post Glaucoma joins growing list of statin side effects appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Unfortunately, choosing the wrong foods comes with a laundry list of consequences, including disease-causing inflammation, heart disease and more than 30 other health conditions.

The potential consequences of eating poorly can be even more risky for certain people — especially pregnant moms and senior citizens. These two groups may seem worlds apart but they have one very important issue in common: special nutritional requirements.

Luckily, according to a recent study, published in Nutrients, there could be an easy and delicious way for these groups to transform their diets and get the nutrients needed to be their healthiest…

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»

Mango power for pregnancy — and beyond

According to the researchers, “Pregnant women are at risk for several health conditions, like gestational diabetes and hypertension, putting their health and the health of the unborn baby at risk.”

So they decided to determine whether eating a tropical fruit — the heavenly-tasting mango —  could make a difference.

Why the mango?

It’s a practically perfect source of nutrients associated with reducing the risk of pregnancy-related disease — like fiber, folate, magnesium, potassium and vitamin E.

To determine whether mangos could help in pregnancy, the researchers gathered information from almost 17,000 assessing their diet quality rated on the Healthy Eating Index (HEI).

They found that compared to diets without mangos, HEI scores were 16 percent higher among pregnant women who included mangos in their diet.

This improvement in diet quality was due to the fact that women who ate mangos during pregnancy got:

• 70 percent more vitamin C
• 31 percent extra fiber in their diets
• 30 percent higher vitamin E than non-mango-eaters
• 26 percent more folate, which is vital for a baby’s development
• 16 percent more magnesium
• 11 percent extra potassium

Eating mangos also helped the women eat much less of those unhealthy foods common in the SAD Diet.

They benefitted from eating:

• 17 percent less added sugars
• 11 percent less saturated fats
• 9 percent less total fats in their diets

Talk about a lot of mango power!

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

Amazing “Can’t be Beet” Superfood Helps Keep Nitric Oxide Levels Up!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Mango benefits after 60

The study also demonstrated that pregnancy wasn’t the only time eating mangos can make a big difference in the quality of your diet…

The researchers also looked at what eating mangos can do for you after 60.

They found that when adults age 60 and older simply including mango in their diets, their HEI (or diet quality) improved by 13 percent.

The dietary improvements included higher intakes of fiber (the number one anti-aging nutrient, in my book) and vitamin C, as well as lower intakes of cholesterol.

Clearly, eating mangos can be a healthy choice at every stage of life.

More mango benefits

And this isn’t the first time mangos have been in the spotlight for their health benefits.

Previous research has shown that eating mangos can help lower your blood pressure in just two hours.

So if you want to boost your diet quality, whether you’re a mom-to-be, a senior or you’re at any age and simply want to live healthier, mangoes just might be the way to go.

Sources:

Associations between mango eaters and moms-to-be: better diets and improved nutrient intakes – EurekAlert!

The post The one fruit moms-to-be and older adults need appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

More of us than not have likely gone to the doctor’s office for a checkup, only to be told we need to lower our ‘bad’ cholesterol or raise our ‘good’ cholesterol.

But what if there’s more to the plot of this cholesterol story? What if the so-called “good” guy — HDL cholesterol — isn’t always so good?

That’s the finding of a study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology that has shown a dangerous link between high-density lipoprotein, or HDL cholesterol, and the second leading cause of blindness in the United States.

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Your body is exposed to an onslaught of chemicals and pollutants daily. Once inside, they travel a superhighway – your circulatory system – reaching every inch of your body and interfering with vital functions. Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™ is formulated with nutrients that help flush these harmful toxins out of your body! MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Cholesterol’s glaucoma risk

The research delved into an average of 14 years of medical data of over 400,000 people between the ages of 40 and 69 who participated in the U.K. Biobank Study.

Specifically, the scientists set out to compare results from cholesterol testing to the likelihood of developing glaucoma. It’s an eye condition that results in damage to the optic nerve, vision loss and even blindness that is currently irreversible and incurable.

And the researchers found something quite surprising…

People with higher levels of HDL or ‘good’ cholesterol in their blood (which is linked to a lower heart disease risk) were significantly more likely to suffer from glaucoma. In fact, the numbers showed that those with the highest HDL levels faced a 10% elevated glaucoma risk compared to those with the lowest levels.

Conversely, the results showed that participants with higher LDL or ‘bad’ cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides (all considered risk factors for heart disease) were less likely to develop glaucoma.

According to the researchers, people with the highest LDL levels experienced an 8% reduction in their glaucoma risk. And those with the highest triglycerides were 14% less likely to end up with glaucoma.

These findings suggest that the traditional view of cholesterol, where high levels of HDL are considered beneficial, may need to be re-evaluated in the context of eye health.

Peak Thyroid Support^™

Specially Formulated with Essential Nutrients to Support Healthy Thyroid Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Balancing your cholesterol levels

So, if you have high levels of that ‘good’ cholesterol, should you ask your doctor for cholesterol-lowering statins in order to reduce your glaucoma risk?

That’s a complicated matter. While statins may be effective in lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease, previous research has linked these medications to glaucoma development, too. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before considering statin therapy.

However, there are natural steps to support balanced cholesterol levels that could help bring down excess HDL levels. They include:

• Reducing alcohol intake
• Eating a balanced diet
• Getting regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight

Also, manage other health conditions that can cause your HDL to skyrocket, like thyroid issues and inflammatory diseases.

Some medications, including bile acid sequestrants (which decrease fat absorption from foods), cholesterol absorption inhibitors, niacin and fibrates (such as fenofibrate), can raise your HDL levels. So, you might need to talk to your doctor about other options for treatment if you take these.

Don’t forget to have your cholesterol tested regularly to keep track of where you are. Normal HDL is 40 to 80 mg/dL for males and 50 to 80 mg/dL for females. Levels that fall at 80+ mg/dL are considered to be high for all.

Sources:

Can too much ‘good’ cholesterol increase glaucoma risk? — MedicalNewsToday

Can my HDL be too high? — MedicalNewsToday

HDL cholesterol: How to boost your ‘good’ cholesterol — Mayo Clinic

Can HDL Cholesterol Levels Be Too High? — Healthline

HDL Cholesterol — Cleveland Clinic

When HDL is high (and too high) — Whole Heart Cardiology

The post When good cholesterol is bad news for your eyes appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Lowering cholesterol isn’t just about cutting back on high-cholesterol foods or unhealthy fats; it’s about strategically incorporating nutrients that actively work to improve your lipid profile. Fiber, plant sterols, and omega-3s each play unique roles, and when combined, their effects are amplified.

This week, let’s explore the powerful synergy of fiber, plant sterols, and omega-3 fatty acids — a true trifecta for lowering cholesterol and supporting heart health.

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»

Fiber: The Cholesterol Blocker

Fiber, especially soluble fiber, acts like a sponge in your digestive system, trapping cholesterol and removing it from your body before it has a chance to enter your bloodstream. Research consistently shows that high-fiber diets are linked to lower LDL cholesterol levels and a reduced risk of heart disease.

Foods rich in soluble fiber include:

• Oats and oat bran
• Beans and lentils
• Fruits like apples, pears, and berries
• Vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots
• Seeds such as chia and flaxseeds

Eating more fiber doesn’t just help with cholesterol — it also supports gut health, stabilizes blood sugar, and keeps you feeling fuller longer. In fact, fiber is key to supporting your microbiome’s ability to make adequate amounts of GLP-1 (the hormone that drives satiety and blood sugar control — and is mimicked by drugs like Ozempic®).  

Plant Sterols: Nature’s Cholesterol Fighters

Plant sterols (also called phytosterols) are natural compounds found in plants that closely resemble cholesterol at a molecular level. Because of this similarity, they compete with cholesterol for absorption in the digestive tract — meaning less cholesterol makes it into your bloodstream. Studies show that consuming just 2 grams of plant sterols per day can reduce LDL cholesterol by as much as 10%.

Foods that contain plant sterols include:

• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables
• Fortified foods like certain margarines and orange juice

At Step One Foods, plant sterols are a key ingredient in our scientifically formulated products, ensuring you get a clinically meaningful dose with every serving.

Omega-3s: The Heart-Healthy Fat

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that help lower triglycerides, reduce inflammation, and support overall heart function. Unlike fiber and plant sterols, which directly lower cholesterol absorption, omega-3s improve cholesterol balance by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and reducing harmful blood fats that contribute to heart disease. Omega-3s also possess anti-inflammatory and mild blood thinning properties — which help reduce the risk of acute cardiovascular events (like heart attacks and strokes). 

Sources of omega-3s include:

• Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines
• Walnuts
• Flaxseeds and chia seeds
• Algal oil (a plant-based source of omega-3s)

Bringing It All Together

The best way to lower cholesterol naturally is to incorporate all three of these nutrients into your diet consistently. When you do that, the effects can truly be synergistic. For example, we’ve demonstrated that this nutrient combination can yield nearly 40% LDL reductions (far more than what’s possible with plant sterols alone and essentially equivalent to the expected effects of a drug!).  

Step One Foods is here to make it easy to get started on getting enough of these nutrients into your diet. But you can amp up the Step One Foods effect even further. Here’s what a Perfect Trio day might look like:

• Breakfast: Oatmeal topped with flaxseeds and berries (or Step One’s Blueberry Cinnamon version).
• Lunch: A salad with walnuts, chickpeas, and avocado
• Snack: A Step One Foods bar packed with fiber, omegas and plant sterols
• Dinner: Grilled salmon with roasted Brussels sprouts and quinoa

Whether or not you require medications for cholesterol, by making fiber, plant sterols, and omega-3s a priority, you’re giving your heart the best possible support for positive outcomes. And with Step One Foods, getting these nutrients in the right amounts has never been easier.

The post The cholesterol-lowering trifecta that supports your heart 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®.

For starters, the evidence for using statins to lower ‘bad’ cholesterol to prevent heart attack and stroke may not be as strong as previously thought.

The drugs themselves stoke concern about side effects, including muscle pain, doubling dementia risk, accelerating the onset of Parkinson’s and tripling the risk for type 2 diabetes, to name a few.

After years of use, the number of Americans diagnosed with heart disease every year continues to grow. And along with newer drugs and newer pathways to target cholesterol, the list of side effects continues to grow as well…

The key is to understand the risks associated with choosing medication for cholesterol treatment. Any decision you make, likely along with your doctor, should be an informed one.

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»

Why long-term research matters

In 2023, the University of South Australia completed one of the world’s most extensive studies on drugs designed to treat cholesterol. This study was also the first to compare these drugs to a range of clinical and heart and brain MRI biomarkers.

Statins are designed to lower cholesterol in the bloodstream. This study also included PCSK9 inhibitors, a lipid-lowering class of medications that clear cholesterol from cells, which received FDA approval in 2015. You may know them by the brand names: Praluent and Repatha.

Using the genetic data of 340,000 UK Biobank participants, researchers found a few things of note about PCSK9 inhibitors…

They were found to correlate with higher BMI and body fat, as well as reduced testosterone levels.

For both men and women, reduced testosterone can lead to low sex drive, lack of energy and reduced strength, muscle tone and bone mass. Testosterone is also a primary factor in the health of the heart and blood vessels.

One unexpected finding was that some people experienced an increase in brain volume of the hippocampus, which may reduce the risk of dementia and depression.

But that wasn’t all they found…

PCSK9: Inhibiting cholesterol and lung function

The Australian research discovered that PCSK9 inhibitors could impair lung function.

That means if you’re already living with a condition that compromises your ability to breathe, such as asthma or sleep apnea, you may want to discuss with your physician if PCSK9 inhibitors are appropriate for you.

UniSA PhD student Kitty Pham, lead author of the paper, says that this is just the point she was trying to make.

“These findings help us to understand how people may react to different drugs and assess the viability of new drug pathways.”

In other words, a lot more needs to be known about cholesterol drugs so that physicians can prescribe them with caution, and with the specific needs of their patients in mind.

Similar findings, indicating that PCSK9 inhibitors decrease lung function, were published in 2024.

Other side effects for PCSK9 inhibitors, considered mild, include:

• diarrhea
• urinary tract infection
• influenza
• bronchitis 
• sinusitis
• muscle spasms
• chest pain not related to the heart
• swelling of the nasal passages and back of the throat
• muscle pain
• injection site reaction
• mild allergic reaction

Peak Maximum Endurance^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Drugs aren’t the only option

While research is ongoing into which of these cholesterol-lowering drugs might be best for whom, remember that there are drug-free methods for keeping your cholesterol under control.

What cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Klodas tells her patients about statins, particularly, is that guidelines suggest four instances where drugs are necessary. And if you don’t fall there, she’s happy to discuss the impressive effects of lifestyle changes and why drugs are an incomplete solution.

That’s because numerous studies have also proven that the right foods, exercise, and stress management can effectively reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have even shown that the right diet can reverse it.

Studies have also identified causes of heart disease we’d never have suspected a couple of decades ago, like gum disease, thyroid function and testosterone balance. Therefore, it’s essential to identify the root cause of your health problem.

We’ve also learned that our diets don’t have to be as restrictive as we once thought to achieve a healthier heart through our eating habits. Simply avoiding the worst foods and eating more of a few key foods can help us reach our goals.

It’s your decision, just be sure you (and your doctor) have all the facts to make the best decision for you.

Sources:

One pill doesn’t fit all: Cholesterol study reveals effects on lung function and brain size — EurekAlert

Genetically instrumented LDL-cholesterol lowering and multiple disease outcomes: A Mendelian randomization phenome-wide association study in the UK Biobank — British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology

Repurposing lipid-lowering drugs on asthma and lung function: evidence from a genetic association analysis — Journal of Translational Medicine

The post Newer cholesterol drugs linked to reduced lung function appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

At my annual physical, I’m always reassured that my cholesterol levels are in tip-top shape. But other than having a blood test, how would I know if that were to change?

Turns out there are some common symptoms that can forewarn you. The trouble is, many people ignore them, writing these signs off as a result of too much or not enough walking, sitting too much, or sometimes even just a common occurrence with age.

If you’re experiencing leg spasms or cramps, you may be one of them…

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»

When leg cramps aren’t just leg cramps

When arteries narrow, and the smooth flow of blood to your body parts is disrupted, often the first noticeable sign something is awry is often felt in the legs.

Leg spasms or cramps can be the first sign of peripheral artery disease. They can feel like clenched muscles and are very painful.

Leg cramps have various causes, but the pain of PAD usually shows up as something called intermittent claudication.

This pain in your leg muscles happens when you’re active and stops when you are at rest. Intermittent claudication can also make your legs feel numb, weak, heavy or tired.

Peripheral artery disease can also lead to burning or aching in the feet and toes while at rest, especially while in bed and lying flat. (But if your feet are tingling and you feel that “falling asleep” numbing sensation, it may be another problem.)

There are other signs, too — cool skin on the feet, redness or other color changes of the skin, and toe and foot sores that don’t heal.

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»

Testing and dealing with symptoms

Although there are many signs and symptoms of PAD, just as often there are none at all. But if you do experience any of the signs of PAD discussed here, don’t wait to see your doctor.

In the meantime, there are ways to relieve the uncomfortable muscle cramping associated with PAD…

Applying heat to muscles using a heating pad or even taking a warm bath can help. This can help increase blood flow to the cramping muscle so it can relax. On the other hand, applying an ice pack to sore muscles can help relieve pain.

Stretching is also relieving but a certain kind, called passive stretching, was actually found to improve blood flow, blood vessel dilation and stiffness.

Peak Krill Oil^™

Supports Heart Health, Immunity and Moods, Naturally!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Keep cholesterol under control

Doctors recommend statins for cholesterol. Cardiologist Dr. Elizabeth Klodas provides the information here that she tells her patients.

But as with most health problems, there are lifestyle adjustments you can make that can help you work towards healthy cholesterol levels.

Nutrition is an important part of that. Studies have shown that people with PAD have lower a lower omega-3 index compared to people who don’t have the disease. Oily fish such as salmon, sardines and herring are high in omega-3s.

Weight training is a form of exercise that’s been shown to improve the benefits of HDL (“good cholesterol”) for your heart and circulatory system.

Finally, if you’re a smoker, make every effort to cut back or quit.

Smoking is a “double whammy” when it comes to cholesterol and PAD. Not only does it make LDL stickier, so it clings to your artery walls and clogs them, but it lowers levels of HDL, which work to clean those LDLs from your artery walls. 

Here are seven things that can make quitting easier.

Source:

Peripheral artery disease symptoms and causes — Mayo Clinic

High cholesterol early symptom: Spasms or leg cramps could be the first noticeable sign of clogged arteries —Times of India

New research shows people with PAD could have an omega-3 deficiency — Eureka Alert

The post When leg cramps may be a serious warning sign appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

She doesn’t even have diabetes or heart disease or a family history of very high cholesterol, which are the categories of patients Dr. Elizabeth Klodas places on statins.

Still, she listened to her doctor and went on the medication. And she promptly began experiencing one of the side effects: severe muscle pain. She stopped using it and decided to go the diet and exercise route instead, with great results.

The muscle pain would have been reason enough to be anti-statins. But these medications can have other, even more dangerous side effects, such as kidney damage and cataracts. And they can double your risk of dementia and triple your risk of diabetes.

The fact that statins raise your risk of diabetes is somewhat of a merry-go-round, considering that you’re taking statins to protect your heart health while diabetes can destroy it. This is one ride no one wants to take….

Peak Vision Support^™

Two out of three people suffer with blurred vision, eye fatigue and dry, irritated eyes. Researchers expect the number of people with age-related macular degeneration and cataracts to nearly double by the year 2050. The cause of this decline in our vision is… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

The distressing difference in rosuvastatin

Researchers conducted a secondary analysis of the LODESTAR trial conducted in South Korea between 2016 and 2019. They were looking to compare the long-term efficacy and safety of two statin drugs, rosuvastatin (Crestor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor), in adults with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Regardless of which drug they were randomized to, people with existing CAD showed no statistically significant difference in incidence of 3-year combined all-cause death, myocardial infarction (MI), stroke and coronary revascularization. In other words, both drugs were equally effective.

However, they did discover something alarming about one of the drugs…

The group taking rosuvastatin had a higher incidence of new-onset diabetes requiring them to start diabetes medication than the group taking atorvastatin (7.2% versus 5.3%). The rosuvastatin group also had a higher rate of cataract surgery than the atorvastatin group (2.5% versus 1.5%).

The researchers weren’t clear on how a particular statin could be tied to new-onset diabetes. However, they did say the excess cataracts could be related to rosuvastatin’s more potent LDL cholesterol-lowering power. This can prevent epithelial cell development within the crystalline lens, where cholesterol biosynthesis is critical to maintain transparency and structure of the lens.

What that means is this: the body appears to need some cholesterol to keep the lenses of the eyes clear and healthy — just as it does to maintain a healthy brain and support production of vitamin D and some hormones — and rosuvastatin may not be leaving the body enough to work with.

Inflammation could be bigger contributor

The researchers emphasize that rosuvastatin’s greater LDL lowering strength didn’t translate to fewer clinical events. Recent evidence suggests that in people already taking statins, inflammation is a bigger contributor to cardiovascular risk than cholesterol. And statins do lower that inflammation along with cholesterol.

“Therefore, when using rosuvastatin over atorvastatin as a statin regimen in people with coronary artery disease, a greater reduction in LDL cholesterol levels can be expected; however, meticulous monitoring and appropriate lifestyle interventions should be considered to mitigate the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus or cataracts,” the researchers wrote.

Further investigation is still needed to determine whether there’s a direct relationship between new-onset diabetes and cataract surgery and rosuvastatin. If there is, investigators also would need to explore the underlying mechanism for those connections and the possible mechanism for a drug effect.

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»

Eating less cholesterol only half the battle

If you’re already taking a statin, don’t stop. You should always talk with your doctor before making any changes to medication.

However, if you want to lower your LDL cholesterol without having to take a statin, there are three things you need to do: follow a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and maintain a healthy weight. The third usually follows the first two, so focus on diet and exercise and you’ll be in good shape (literally and figuratively). Plus, you’ll be controlling inflammation at the same time.

You may think that to control LDL, you must stay away from foods high in fat and cholesterol. While it does help to lower dietary cholesterol and reduce saturated fat, especially trans fat, it’s more important to decrease the amount of simple/processed carbohydrates and super-starchy foods you eat. These simple and processed carbs end up spiking insulin levels, which signals your body to hold on to LDL cholesterol. They can also cause inflammation.

Does this mean going on a low-carb diet? Dr. Klodas cautions against that. Instead, she recommends a balanced diet with plenty of fiber and plant sterols to help control LDL. Plant sterols are found in fresh fruits and vegetables as well as nuts and seeds. And fiber is found in most fruits, vegetables and nuts as well as psyllium husks, bran and beans and legumes.

Some fruits and vegetables are also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin.

“There is an overwhelming amount of evidence to show that lutein and zeaxanthin play a protective role in helping to protect the eye against cataracts and macular degeneration,” said Steven G. Pratt, MD, an assistant clinical professor of ophthalmology at the University of California.

Follow these seven tips to avoid cataracts.

Sources:

Highly Potent Statin Stands Out for Diabetes, Cataract Risks — MedPage Today

Rosuvastatin versus atorvastatin treatment in adults with coronary artery disease: secondary analysis of the randomised LODESTAR trial — The BMJ

Statin Users Show LDL Doesn’t Come Close to Telling Whole Story of ASCVD — MedPage Today

The post The statin that raises your risk of diabetes and cataracts appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Five years later, the same medication was approved to treat hair loss when scientists discovered that by reducing DHT levels, finasteride also worked to block hair follicle shrinkage and promote hair regrowth.

Now, research is suggesting this wonder drug could offer even more benefits — benefits that could be the key to saving your heart as you age.

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»

New clues found in old data

Clues to finasteride’s heart health benefits first appeared in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2009 and 2016.

Dr. Jaume Amengual, an assistant professor in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Illinois looked back at that data and found that men taking the drug averaged cholesterol levels 30 points lower than men not taking the drug.

However, while that 30-point difference was massive, Dr. Amengual knew he had to dig deeper before they could truly attribute the drop in cholesterol to the drug.

 “This was not a clinical study in which you can control everything perfectly,” admitted Amengual. “It was more of an observation that led us to say, ‘Okay, now we’ve seen this in people. Let’s see what happens in mice.”

The connection stacks up

Mice predisposed to atherosclerosis (a condition where arteries narrow due to plaque buildup) — and who were fed a diet high in cholesterol — were administered varying doses of finasteride to see how it performed, ranging from 0, 10, 100, and 1000 milligrams per kilogram of food.

And sure enough, the results held true.

The researchers found that mice given the highest dose of the drug had:

• Lower cholesterol levels in their blood plasma
• Reduced cholesterol in their arteries
• Fewer lipids and inflammatory markers in their livers

According to these findings, which were published in the Journal of Lipid Research, the medication might offer benefits that go beyond cholesterol-lowering and include the ability to reduce inflammation and even block the formation of plaques in the arteries.

From cholesterol reduction to better heart health

So how in the world does a prostate drug keep cholesterol in check?

Well, the scientists say it’s pretty simple.

As we mentioned earlier, finasteride works by stopping the body from converting testosterone into a derivative of the hormone, called DHT.

While DHT is best known for causing prostate hypertrophy and hair loss, both DHT and testosterone itself can play a role in the development of atherosclerosis.

This means that controlling levels of DHT and other testosterone derivatives could have a positive impact on cholesterol metabolism and could even reduce inflammation, ultimately supporting better heart health.

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»

There’s always a catch

However, don’t run out and ask your doctor for a finasteride prescription just yet since there are some issues to be aware of…

First, in that rodent study, the researchers say that the mice that experienced reductions in cholesterol were given levels of the drugs that would be toxic to humans.

Second, previous studies of finasteride have shown that it has some drawbacks. It’s been linked to an increase in diabetes risk and a common side effect is loss of libido.

Going safer and more natural

A natural option to finasteride just may be beta-sitosterol.

Beta-sitosterol works by inhibiting 5-alpha-reductase activity to block testosterone conversion to DHT the same way that finasteride works.

Yet, it doesn’t have the negative side effects of the drug. And studies have shown that beta-sitosterol promotes prostate health, heart health and discourages hair loss and insulin resistance.

In fact, if you’re looking to support healthy cholesterol levels, plant sterols, like beta-sitosterol, are the way to go…

That’s because plant sterols leverage our internal cholesterol circulation system to dramatically reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

Of course, many of us have never heard of beta-sitosterol.

But you’ve probably heard of saw palmetto, which many men already use to support prostate health.

Well, here’s the skinny on saw palmetto…

The reason it works is thanks to it beta-sitosterol content!

It’s why saw palmetto has been found to have benefits for the prostate, hair loss and beyond.

Sources:

Common hair loss and prostate drug may also cut heart disease risk in men and mice — ACES News

Old drug, new life: “Magic pill” regrows hair, heals prostate, boosts heart health — earth.com

Finasteride — Drugs.com

Saw Palmetto vs. Finasteride for Hair Loss — hims

Beta-sitosterol: Natural support for the prostate, heart and more — Easy Health Options

Can saw palmetto shrink the prostate? — Easy Health Options

Effect of β-sitosterol on glucose homeostasis by sensitization of insulin resistance via enhanced protein expression of PPRγ and glucose transporter 4 in high fat diet and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats — Cytotechnology

The post The prostate drug that reduces hair loss and heart disease appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Lately, however, we’ve discovered that BMI is not the most accurate way to measure just how much of our weight can be attributed to body fat.

And when body fat is associated with a deadly cancer, this really matters…

What is hormone-positive breast cancer?

Contrary to what you may think, there’s more than one type of breast cancer.

Estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer, also called hormone-positive breast cancer, means there are specific estrogen receptors on the tumor cells.

When estrogen binds with these receptors, it stimulates the cancer cells to grow and reproduce. Therefore, one of the main goals of therapy or intervention with hormone-positive cancer is to reduce hormonal stimulation as much as possible.

Why weight matters for post-menopausal women

Estrogen is made by the ovaries during the years before menopause, but it’s also made in fat cells where enzymes convert other hormones to estrogens. After menopause, fat is the primary source of estrogen production in the body.

So of course, maintaining a healthy weight is a prime way for post-menopausal women to reduce their risk for this type of breast cancer.

But more than weight, the amount of excess fat a woman is carrying is of primary importance in determining her risk for this cancer.

Traditionally, body mass index (BMI) has been the way body fat has been measured.

But now we’re finding that it’s not the most accurate way.

BMI underestimates ER+ breast cancer

BMI does not account for age, sex, or ethnicity. So a team of Spanish researchers used another validated measure of body fat that does account for these factors, known as CUN-BAE.

Both BMI and CUN-BAE numbers were obtained for 1033 white post-menopausal women with breast cancer, as well as for 1143 who were cancer-free but matched for age and sex.

Using BMI, they found an estimated 19.9 percent of breast cancer cases to be hormone-positive, but using the alternative measurement, about 41.9 percent were determined to be hormone-positive.

“Our findings suggest that the population impact could be underestimated when using traditional BMI estimates, and that more accurate measures of body fat, such as CUN-BAE, should be considered when estimating the cancer burden attributable to obesity in postmenopausal breast cancer.”

The team also noted that, when planning effective strategies to prevent breast cancer, this difference is crucial.

Lose weight to reduce risk for ER+ breast cancer

If you’re a woman who is beyond menopause, the best way to help prevent estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, other than maintaining a healthy weight, is to control cholesterol.

Research has shown that byproducts of cholesterol can bind to estrogen receptors and promote the growth of ER+ tumors.

Following a healthy low-fat diet can help you do both…

Whole grain fiber foods, like barley, oats, and brown rice are great at lowering cholesterol. A high-fiber diet promotes the binding of both cholesterol and estrogen in the colon, which reduces reabsorption.

In fact, a Swedish study found that fiber intake from fruit and cereal may play a role in reducing breast cancer risk in postmenopausal women, particularly.

But cutting down on dairy fat and saturated fats is also a must.

Other foods can help tame estrogen and guard against cancer as well, including:

Manuka honey. Researchsuggests that this medicinal honey could be developed into a natural supplement or even a standalone treatment for ER-positive breast cancer, especially for patients who experience resistance to the commonly used therapies.

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale contain diindolylmethane (DIM), a compound that promotes the healthy metabolism of estrogen.

Green tea. Green tea contains powerful polyphenols that have proven to play a role in resisting a variety of cancers — liver, breast, prostate, lung and skin cancers, among others.

Don’t forget to exercise. Combining aerobics and strength training gets you the most cancer protection from both cancer incidence and mortality.

Sources:

Around 40% of postmenopausal hormone positive breast cancers linked to excess body fat — Eureka Alert

Burden of postmenopausal breast cancer attributable to excess body weight: comparative study of body mass index and CUN-BAE in MCC-Spain study — Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health

The post The underestimated factor for ER+ breast cancer appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Statins have serious side effects, like muscle damage, liver damage, memory loss and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, to name a few.

If you are searching for statin alternatives, you may have heard a thing or two about a pretty popular one — niacin (also known as B3).

Doctors usually use niacin as the next line of defense against high cholesterol in people who don’t respond to statins or who develop some of the side effects I mentioned above. And it seems like a good alternative at first. After all, who wouldn’t want to replace dangerous statins with a simple vitamin?

But before you embrace this B vitamin as the cholesterol solution you’ve been searching for, there’s something you need to know…

Niacin has side effects, too… some of them pretty serious.

High doses of niacin (like those you might use to treat high cholesterol) could cause a rare but serious toxic reaction in your eyes.

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»

Too much B3 can make you go blind

Retina specialists at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai (NYEE) came across an unusual case recently…

A 61-year-old man came to the hospital with blurry vision that was gradually getting worse. It started roughly a month prior. At the time they examined him, he was almost legally blind.

He shared his medical history, which included a history of high blood pressure and high cholesterol. And eventually, he disclosed another interesting fact — he was taking high doses of niacin to lower his cholesterol.

Doctors used high-tech scans to take a closer look at his retinas. And it turned out, there was damage to his retinal cells caused by a rare toxic reaction called niacin-induced maculopathy.

This reaction is triggered when high doses of niacin cause fluid to build up in the macula (a small area in the center of the retina that allows you to see details on objects). The fluid retention leads to swelling and cellular damage. But here’s the good news…

Doctors figured out the cause of the man’s vision loss early enough. He stopped taking niacin, and he got his vision back again.

Peak Vision Support^™

Unique Dual Nutrient Formula Supports Healthy, Clear Vision and Protects Eyes from Blue Light!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Seeing the side effects of niacin clearly

I didn’t tell you about this side effect to scare you from using niacin for your high cholesterol (or to avoid Alzheimer’s for that matter). It’s still a very good treatment option. I just want you to know about this risk, so you can be careful with your dosage.

It’s easy to think something that’s typically good for you (like a vitamin that balances cholesterol) is even better for you if you take more. But more isn’t always better.

The man I mentioned above took three to six grams of niacin daily for several months. That’s far more than what’s recommended. The daily upper limit for adults over 19 is 35 mg according to the National Institutes of Health.

Also, remember this was a rare occurrence. In fact, as you age, you can become prone to niacin deficiency, as we don’t process nutrients very efficiently as we get older.

If you decide to use niacin instead of statins, make sure to tell your doctor what you’re up to. That way, you can let him or her know immediately if you develop any odd symptoms that might be related to the supplement.

Sources:

1. Eye damage linked to popular over-the-counter vitamin that lowers cholesterol can be reversed — MedicalXpress
2. Optical Coherence Tomography, Fluorescein Angiography, and Electroretinography Features of Niacin Maculopathy: New Insight Into Pathogenesis — Journal of VitreoRetinal Diseases
3. Niacin to boost your HDL, ‘good,’ cholesterol — Mayo Clinic
4. Cholesterol Control: Statins vs. Niacin — Healthline
5. Statin side effects: Weigh the benefits and risks — Mayo Clinic
6. Help for your cholesterol when the statins won’t do — Harvard Health Publishing

The post This cholesterol-lowering vitamin could cause eye damage appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

What you may not know, though, is that you can end up with cholesterol problems, even if it seems like you’re doing everything right.

That’s because high cholesterol, like so many other health problems, can be caused by your genes.

So if your parents or grandparents passed on a tendency for cholesterol issues, it could make you a ticking time bomb.

But don’t throw in the towel yet…

According to researchers from the University of Georgia, there’s one thing that can trump high cholesterol, even if it’s driven by your genes. And it’s simple, healthy and already shown to support heart health.

Peak Krill Oil^™

Supports Heart Health, Immunity and Moods, Naturally!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Beating back bad cholesterol

Georgia researchers say the simple answer to cholesterol is fish oil.

Yup, good old omega-3 essential fatty acids, which many experts believe will be the future “drug of choice” for high cholesterol, can even help people whose bodies are genetically programmed to have higher levels of triglycerides and LDL (bad cholesterol).

Using genetic data from more than 441,000 participants, the researchers calculated a score to predict the genetic likelihood of high levels of total cholesterol, high LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL cholesterol (or “good” cholesterol).

And they found that hands-down, participants who reported taking fish oil supplements had lower blood lipid levels than predicted, especially for total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Their conclusion?

“Taking fish oil is associated with a shift toward a healthy lipid profile,” says study author Kaixiong Ye.

“Our findings also support that fish oil supplements may counteract the genetic predisposition to high cholesterol.”

Adding fish oil to your routine

There’s a reason researchers look for alternatives for lowering cholesterol risk. Some reports have stated that as many as one in two patients stop taking statins, reduce the dose or take them irregularly because they believe the cholesterol-lowering drugs cause muscle pain and other side effects.

Experiences like that helped make fish oil a popular option. This recent research adds to the growing body of evidence that omega-3s from fish oil are the most effective way to improve cholesterol levels. But some people who’ve tried fish oil supplements give them up due to fish burps.

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Your body is exposed to an onslaught of chemicals and pollutants daily. Once inside, they travel a superhighway – your circulatory system – reaching every inch of your body and interfering with vital functions. Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™ is formulated with nutrients that help flush these harmful toxins out of your body! MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Another option is krill oil. There’s evidence that krill oil supplements can deliver omega-3s without causing digestive issues because it is more bioavailable. That’s because krill oil’s fatty acids are stored as phospholipids, while the fatty acids in fish oils are stored primarily as triglycerides. It’s also considered a clean and sustainable source.

And remember, you can also add delicious fatty fish, like salmon, to your diet, at least 2 to 3 times a week. If you have seafood allergies, you might not tolerate krill oil, so eating fish or fish oil may suit you better.

Fortunately, there are a few other nutritional options for supporting better cholesterol. These include:

1. Getting more fiber – Taking psyllium fiber can help reduce cholesterol absorption into your bloodstream by binding cholesterol and its precursors in the digestive system and dragging them out of the body before they get into circulation.
2. Eating grains – Whole grains, like oats and barley, can help lower all non-HDL cholesterol values and support your gut microbiota, a significant factor in regulating cholesterol metabolism.
3. Picking prickly pear – Prickly pear, or nopales cactus, tastes like a cross between all-natural bubble gum and watermelon and can help lower both total and LDL cholesterol.
4. Supplement with B5 – Studies have shown that supplementing with pantethine, a derivative of vitamin B5, could lead to an up to 64.7% decrease in plasma total cholesterol.

Sources:

At risk of high cholesterol? Taking fish oil may help — EurekAlert!

The post The supplement that trumps a genetic risk for high cholesterol appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But recently, this sour, fermented apple liquid has found itself in the spotlight — and not just for its cleaning power. ACV is now being touted as a health elixir, with claims that it can aid in weight loss, control diabetes, improve cardiovascular health, and more. 

But how much of this is hype, and how much is backed by science?

Let’s dive into what the research says about apple cider vinegar’s health benefits…

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»

What the Science Shows

Lowering Blood Glucose Levels

One of the best-supported claims about ACV is its potential to help manage blood sugar.

Several studies have found that consuming apple cider vinegar daily may slightly reduce fasting blood glucose and A1C levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. 

A 2021 meta-analysis of 9 studies showed a reduction in fasting blood glucose by about 8 mg/dL for those with Type 2 diabetes. In a more recent intervention trial, people who consumed 2 tablespoons of ACV daily for eight weeks saw a reduction in their A1C, provided they also followed a healthy diet.

While these results are promising, it’s important to note that all of these studies were relatively small and more research is needed before we can call ACV a game-changer for diabetes management — especially since the blood sugar reductions were relatively minor.

Still, the possibility that incorporating ACV could be helpful as part of a comprehensive approach for managing blood sugar elevations cannot be excluded.

Lowering Cholesterol Levels

Another area where ACV has been touted as a solution is in cholesterol management. The same 2021 meta-analysis also suggested that ACV consumption could help reduce total cholesterol, particularly in people with Type 2 diabetes.

The intervention trial found that diabetic individuals who drank ACV while also adhering to a healthy diet saw improvements in both LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and total cholesterol.

However, we should view all these findings cautiously given that they were seen in the setting of Type 2 diabetes and in combination with dietary modification.  Whether the cholesterol improvement was related to better blood sugar control, a direct effect on cholesterol metabolism, or the dietary changes themselves is unknown.

My best advice would be that if you’re going to try apple cider vinegar as a cholesterol-lowering intervention, don’t just accept it on faith that it’s going to work.

Objectively test your response with a repeat lipid profile evaluation after at least 30 days of consistent use — ideally without changing anything else about your diet or exercise routine.  

Peak Vitality^™

Peak Vitality^™ helps support and strengthen adrenal gland function for improved energy, hormone balance, mood and focus!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Weight Loss and Appetite Control

There are also claims that ACV can promote weight loss by reducing appetite, slowing gastric emptying, and curbing cravings. However, the studies behind these claims have been small and short-term.

Real, sustained weight loss comes from consistent healthy habits — like eating a nutrient-dense diet, incorporating physical activity, and lowering overall calorie intake. It won’t come from consuming ACV alone.

Supporting Gut Health

Because apple cider vinegar is a fermented product, so long as it is not pasteurized it will contain natural probiotics that can help support a healthy gut microbiome.

Probiotics boost the amount of beneficial bacteria in your gut, which in turn can promote better immunity, digestive health, and even mental well-being.

Including ACV in your diet, whether as part of a salad dressing or marinade, can be one way to add a probiotic boost. 

Downsides of Apple Cider Vinegar

If the above discussion has you thinking – “What do I have to lose?” — just remember that ACV is VINEGAR. That means it can irritate your stomach, worsen gastric reflux, and even strip tooth enamel. “Miracle” cures are often not entirely miraculous. At the very least, in the case of ACV, please never drink it undiluted.  

At Step One Foods, we believe in a holistic approach to health with an emphasis on sustainable, balanced choices—like consuming real, wholesome foods every day. With Step One Foods, you get scientifically formulated products designed and proven to support heart health without any downsides. No miracles required.

The post A cardiologist answers: What can apple cider vinegar really do? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Take HDL cholesterol — the “good” stuff.

While it’s true that optimal HDL levels are important for good cardiovascular health, research has also linked very high HDL to a 42 percent increased risk for dementia in adults over 75.

But research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has dug deeper — finding that it’s HDL quality, not quantity that matters…

And that when it’s off, it could contribute to the first sign of Alzheimer’s disease in women.

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»

Quality over quantity for brain health

According to a research team from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, menopausal women need to consider not just the quantity, but the quality of the total cholesterol carried by HDL particles circulating in their bloodstream.

The team measured the size, composition, and level of functioning of HDL particles in the bloodstreams of 503 women who had taken part in the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN).

Their findings showed that, over time, the number of larger HDL particles in the women’s bodies increased, and that these larger particles did not function as well as smaller HDL particles.

Then, from 2000 to 2016, the researchers repeatedly assessed the women’s cognitive function and compared their data to changes in the women’s HDL particles as they aged.

“We were able to show that as early as midlife, women who have more of the smaller-sized particles and those whose particles’ concentrations of phospholipids increased over the menopause transition are more likely to experience better episodic memory later in life,” says Dr. Samar El Khoudary, who added that loss of working memory is the first sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Improve HDL quality to lower memory loss risk

The idea that lipids (fats) play a crucial role in preventing Alzheimer’s isn’t a new one.

Fortunately, in an earlier study, Dr. El Khoudary’s team showed that health behaviors like those included in the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8^TM can improve the quality of HDL particles by adding more phospholipid-rich particles to the bloodstream.

The eight factors in Life’s Essential 8 include advice to:

• Eat better
• Be more active
• Quit tobacco
• Get healthy sleep
• Manage weight
• Control cholesterol
• Manage blood sugar
• Manage blood pressure

That top one can stump some people, but just follow The M.I.N.D. diet — specifically designed for protecting your brain while considering factors like blood pressure.

To follow the diet, here’s what you need to eat and drink each day:

• At least three servings of whole grains
• A green leafy vegetable and one other vegetable
• A glass of wine (optional)
• A snack of nuts

You should also have beans every other day or so, eat poultry and berries at least twice a week and have fish at least once a week.

Other factors that will help get those lipid levels in order are being physically active, getting enough sleep, and maintaining a healthy body weight.

Fortunately, heart research has caught up to the importance of small particle HDL for heart health too.

So get started optimizing your cholesterol for better heart and brain health.

Sources:

HDL quality, not quantity, contribute to the first sign of Alzheimer’s disease in women — Eureka Alert

High-density Lipoprotein Over Midlife and Future Cognition in Women: The SWAN HDL Ancillary Study — The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism

Swan – Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation — swanstudy.org

The post The bad side of good cholesterol linked to Alzheimer’s in women appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Even though it’s far from it! 80% of heart disease need not exist. That’s not a wish. It’s a fact.

And unless you’re diligent, you might be missing an opportunity to avoid it. 

Here are some key facts you need to know:

1. High cholesterol and high blood pressure have no symptoms

Two of the leading preventable causes of heart disease can be present inside your body without you realizing it. Even though both conditions affect nearly half of all US adults, neither high cholesterol nor high blood pressure are associated with obvious physical signs or symptoms. So unless you have them checked, you can’t know if you’re in the clear.

How often should you have these evaluated?  My rule of thumb is that cholesterol levels should be checked once in your teens, twice in your twenties, three times in your 30s, four times in your 40s, five times in your 50s, and yearly there after. More frequent checks are required if abnormal readings are noted at any point along the way. Blood pressure should be checked at EVERY healthcare encounter and AT LEAST as frequently as cholesterol.

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Gives Your Cells the Energy They Need for Optimal Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

2. Hidden risks are common

Even when you get your cholesterol checked, you may have incomplete information about your true risk. Apo B and Lipoprotein A are tests worth having — although few physicians are aware of these tests and actually order them.

Lipoprotein A is a genetically determined risk factor that can only be uncovered with a blood test. It affects about 1 in 5 Americans. And if you don’t test for it, you won’t know if you’re at increased risk of developing plaque buildup prematurely. You need this tested only once in your lifetime.

Apo B helps determine how confident we are that your LDL reading is a true representation of risk. Apo B can change with lifestyle adjustment.  Timing and appropriateness of Apo B testing is something that your doctor should weigh in on. Apo B and Lipoprotein A (Lp(a)) are both assessed with blood tests that are not expensive and are typically covered by insurance (but always good to check with your specific plan).

3. Heart disease is not just a concern for older adults

Traditionally, heart disease has been viewed as an illness affecting primarily older adults.

However, as outlined in a recent blog, heart disease begins in childhood.  And when we exercise less because we’re glued to screens, and when we’re surrounded by foods that fuel high cholesterol, high blood sugar and high blood pressure, it might not be surprising that heart attacks among adults under 40 have become increasingly common.

Regardless of age, the time to start preventing heart disease is today.

4. Heart disease is the #1 killer of women — and many don’t know it

Many people still think of heart disease as primarily a “men’s issue,” but it’s actually the leading cause of death for women as well. In fact, heart disease kills more women each year than all cancers combined (including breast cancer).

Women are also less likely to experience the classic signs of a heart attack, such as chest pain, which can delay diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms in women can be subtler and may include fatigue, nausea, or shortness of breath. Although many women experience fatigue (Hello! We’re juggling multiple roles!) and both nausea and shortness of breath have many causes, if you have risk factors for heart disease (see #1 and #2), you should take your symptoms seriously — especially if they are new or unexpected. 

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

Amazing “Can’t be Beet” Superfood Helps Keep Nitric Oxide Levels Up!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

5. Food drives most of it

Globally, heart disease remains the top cause of death. In the United States alone, someone dies from a heart-related condition every 33 seconds. This is roughly the equivalent of a September 11th-like tragedy repeating itself every 24 hours, 365 days a year.  

This statistic underscores just how pervasive and serious heart disease is. But it’s not just about mortality rates — it’s also about the quality of life for millions of people who live with heart conditions. And, to reiterate the point I made at the beginning of this blog, 80% of this represents unnecessary suffering. 

Five of the 7 modifiable risk factors for heart disease (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar/diabetes, excess weight, poor diet) are all due in part or in whole to dietary choices (quitting smoking and moving more are the other two modifiable risk factors).  This means changing what you eat is the most impactful thing you can do yourself to avoid this disease.   

Take charge of your heart health today

Step One Foods exists to help you make the dietary changes needed to impact your heart health destiny, with products that are not only easy to use but also unapologetically delicious.  Our focus is on real food, backed by real science, for real results—because heart disease is not destiny. You have more control than you think and we’re here to help.

The post 5 scary heart health facts that could haunt you appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The great thing about strawberries is they’re not just juicy, sweet and tasty. They have a ton of health benefits.

Research shows they’re great for lowering blood sugar and supporting the health of our blood vessels. A study in mice indicate they can reduce colon inflammation caused by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

And they contain an antioxidant, fisetin, that has been shown to protect the brain and even defend against pain and osteoporosis.

Now there’s evidence their effects on triglycerides and LDL reinforce the health benefits of strawberries…

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»

Strawberries protect your brain and heart

Researchers from the University of California, Davis reviewed findings from 47 clinical trials and 13 observational studies published between 2000 and 2023 to shed light on exactly how strawberries benefit heart and brain health.

Their conclusions were heartening…

• They found strawberries contain polyphenols and fiber that help lower levels of LDL (the “bad”) cholesterol and triglycerides — while reducing inflammation (which is now seen as a significant heart disease biomarker). This supports overall heart health and better management of cardiovascular risk factors.
• And that’s not all. The study suggests the rich flavonoid content of strawberries may help delay cognitive decline and protect against dementia. In other words, strawberries may support cognitive function and combat oxidative stress, both of which help keep the aging brain sharp.

These benefits were realized whether the strawberries were fresh, frozen or freeze-dried. And to get them, participants consumed between one and four cups of strawberries daily.

“Strawberries are rich in phytonutrients that benefit heart health,” says Dr. Roberta Holt, lead researcher of the study at University of California, Davis. “Our review found that regular strawberry consumption not only lowers cholesterol but also helps reduce inflammation, which is a key driver of heart disease. This means that simply adding a cup of strawberries to your daily routine can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular events.”

“People are seeking natural, food-based solutions to manage their health and strawberries offer a convenient, delicious and affordable way to support heart health,” says registered dietician and author Toby Amidor. “They are packed with phytonutrients, fiber and vitamins, particularly vitamin C, and can be easily added to smoothies, yogurt, salads or eaten as a snack.”

Peak Chelation+ Resveratrol^™

Helps flush harmful toxins from your body that interfere with vital functions!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Make sure they’re ‘clean’

Triglycerides and LDL can be the hardest components of cholesterol to keep straight, so this is great news. But there’s one big caveat when it comes to consuming strawberries…

For years, strawberries have topped the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen list of foods most contaminated with pesticides. These include chemicals that have been linked to cancer and reproductive damage, or that are banned in Europe.

To avoid these pesticides, I eat organic strawberries. But I’m aware that this doesn’t completely eliminate my risk. If the strawberry seedlings grown on organic farms were not started there, there’s a good chance they started growing in soil pumped with toxic fumigants before they were transferred to organic soil.

There are a few things you can do to reduce your risk of pesticide exposure from strawberries:

1. Wash your berries. This may not completely guarantee pesticide-free exposure, but it definitely will help remove them. Rinse your berries in a bowl of water with a little bit of white vinegar and add a slice or two of lemon to counteract the vinegar taste.
2. Meet your local farmers. Talk to the farmers at your local farmer’s market to find out their growing practices. That will tell you where you can purchase the “cleanest” strawberries.
3. Grow your own. If you have the space, you can grow strawberries in hanging baskets or in any container large enough to space your plants about 8-10 inches apart, spread the roots out and cover them with soil. Vegetable-growing compost works well for growing strawberries.

Sources:

New study reveals strawberries as a powerful ally for heart health — EurekAlert!

Strawberry (Fragaria x Ananassa) intake on human health and disease outcomes: a comprehensive literature review — Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition

The 2024 Dirty Dozen — Environmental Working Group

The post The berry that takes down triglycerides and LDL appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But that’s not all that the eyes can reveal…

It turns out that our eyes can provide a glimpse into what else can be going on in the body, including hints about many health ailments — and not just those affecting the eyes.

In some cases, they can even lead to life-saving early detection.

Here are 10 of them…

Peak Blood Flow^™

Poor circulation can impact your eyesight, your ability to sleep and cause headaches, discomfort and swelling — among other more serious concerns. The tell-tale signs of a circulation problem are… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Brain tumor

A simple visual field measurement can reveal abnormalities, but often patients are either unaware of them or consider them so benign that they don’t bother to report them. It’s important to make note of any visual field abnormalities because they can indicate brain tumors, such as pituitary adenoma.

Diabetes

Screening for diabetes is an area that’s ripe for improvement, especially since it often is not diagnosed until six to 13 years after its onset. An eye exam might speed that up — as well as prevent vision loss…

Lesions, characteristic of diabetes, can appear at the back of the eye before other symptoms are known. Slashing this delay is crucial because, within five years of diagnosis, 25 percent of patients with type 1 diabetes and 40 percent of those with type 2 diabetes who are treated with insulin will develop eye lesions that can have a major impact on vision.

Early identification and rigorous monitoring of eye health significantly reduce the risk of blindness, which can happen when diabetes goes untreated.

High blood pressure and high cholesterol

High blood pressure and high cholesterol can significantly increase the risk of coronary heart disease or stroke. Yet high blood pressure, referred to as a “silent killer,” can go unnoticed until it’s a significant problem.

As strange as it might sound, the eye can be used to diagnose both of these conditions. This is because the eye is the only part of the body where blood vessels can be seen without requiring an incision or invasive techniques.

For instance, high blood pressure can be identified by unusual bends, kinks, or bleeding from blood vessels in the back of the eye, as well as definite signs on the retina. Hypercholesterolemia creates cholesterol deposits and atherosclerosis creates Hollenhorst plaques, both of which are visible inside the eye blood vessels. Cholesterol can also be seen in the cornea or the adnexa of the eye.

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»

Lupus

This inflammatory disease, in which the body attacks its own tissues and organs, can be indicated by dry eye, as well as by swelling in the white part of the eye, the middle layer of the eye or the light-sensitive tissue in the back of the eye.

Lyme disease

This infection is transmitted by ticks and results in inflammation throughout the body. Many people with Lyme disease experience inflammation of the optic nerve, as well as an increase in “floaters,” small specks that drift across their field of vision, at the onset of infection.

Multiple sclerosis

About half of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have optic neuritis, a condition in which the optic nerve becomes inflamed. Symptoms can include blurry vision, the sight of “washed out” colors and eye pain for a few days when you move your eyes.

MS can also be indicated by double vision or involuntary eye movements.

Cancer

Cancers that affect the eye, like retinoblastoma, can also cause metastases to the lungs and liver. The disease often develops without symptoms until it’s too late, so early detection is crucial.

Another cancer clue visible in the eye is congenital hypertrophy of the retinal pigmented epithelium (CHRPE). It appears as a shape that looks similar to a bear’s paw and may be associated with colon cancer, which is often not diagnosed until the later stages.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Red eyes with deep, severe pain can be a harbinger of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This symptom indicates scleritis, a painful inflammation of the sclera, the white part of the eye, that requires treatment. Many people with RA also suffer from dry eye.

Thyroid disease

Hyperthyroidism can cause protruding eyeballs and retracted eyelids. This is most commonly caused by Graves’ disease, a condition in which the thyroid produces too much or too little hormone. This condition can also be accompanied by dry eye, blurry vision, or vision loss.

Get your eyes checked

If you have abnormal eye movements, asymmetric pupillary responses, sudden reading problems or the appearance of double vision, it’s time to visit your optometrist. They can help determine whether you need to be seen by an ophthalmologist for further diagnosis and treatment. Your ophthalmologist can refer you to another specialist if the condition extends beyond the eyes.

Sources:

Your Eyes Can Shed Light on Underlying Health Problems — Science Alert

MS eye and vision problems — MS Society

20 Surprising Health Problems an Eye Exam Can Catch — American Academy of Ophthalmology

The post 10 hidden health problems your eyes can reveal appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The earlier you know, the better. To that end, previous research has helped to identify cholesterol as a key factor in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk.

And this belief isn’t wrong. Molecules of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol) can collect inside the walls of your blood vessels and block blood flow. So if you lower your LDL cholesterol, you lower your risk of clogged arteries and heart disease, right?

Well, when it comes to CVD, researchers are discovering cholesterol is only part of the picture…

In fact, two factors that have been absent from any testing specifically for CVD risk — when combined with cholesterol — can accurately predict a person’s 30-year risk of heart disease…

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»

The triple crown of CVD risk measurements

A research team led by Dr. Paul M. Ridker at Brigham and Women’s Hospital set out to study whether blood measures of cholesterol and inflammation could predict cardiovascular disease decades later. 

They accessed data from the Women’s Health Study (WHS) which followed, assessed and collected health data, including blood assays, on almost 40,000 female health professionals for 30 years. The women were on average about 55 years old and were considered to be in better cardiometabolic health than the general U.S. population.

Each participant had measurements of three biomarkers tested in a blood sample when they enrolled in the WHS:

• high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation, along with
• low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and
• lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), a lipid partly made of LDL

The study’s primary endpoint was a first major adverse cardiovascular event — heart attack, coronary revascularization, stroke or death from cardiovascular causes.

The research team divided participants into five groups, ranging from those with the highest to the lowest levels of the biomarkers. This is what researchers found:

• Women with the highest levels of LDL cholesterol had a 36% greater risk for heart disease compared to those with the lowest levels.
• Those with the highest levels of Lp(a) had a 33% greater risk.
• Those with the highest levels of CRP had a 70% greater risk.

When all three measures were assessed together, women with the highest levels had more than 1.5 times the risk for stroke and more than triple the risk for coronary heart disease compared to women with the lowest levels.

Peak Organic Fermented Beets^™

Amazing “Can’t be Beet” Superfood Helps Keep Nitric Oxide Levels Up!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

In short, taking into account measurements for all three of these independent biological markers can better predict risk of major cardiovascular events over the next three decades than measuring only one. And inflammation, an abomination we’ve sounded an alarm about for more than a decade, was shown to be at least as important as cholesterol in determining CVD risk, yet C-reactive protein is rarely measured.

“These data support efforts to extend strategies for the primary prevention of atherosclerotic events beyond traditional 10-year estimates of risk,” says lead author Dr. Paul Ridker, director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, who presented the findings at ESC Congress 2024.

“To provide the best care for our patients, we need universal screening for inflammation, cholesterol, and lipoprotein(a), and we need it now.”

He added, “We can’t treat what we don’t measure, and we hope these findings move the field closer to identifying even earlier ways to detect and prevent heart disease.”

Although only women were assessed in this study, the study’s authors believe similar results would be expected in men.

Peak CoQSol10 CF^™

Gives Your Cells the Energy They Need for Optimal Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Lifestyle modifications could help

Much research has pointed to inflammation as a unifying theory of disease, so the fact that it’s not been considered important enough to test regularly should surprise us. Hopefully, this will change…

“While we still need to focus on lifestyle essentials like diet, exercise and smoking cessation, the future of prevention is clearly going to include combination therapies that target inflammation and lp(a) in addition to cholesterol,” Ridker says.

These risk factors can be modified with a combination of lifestyle changes, but inflammation may be where to focus first, starting with diet. Many studies have shown that lowering both inflammation and cholesterol can significantly reduce heart attack and stroke risk.

You can get a jump-start on lowering your inflammation levels by ridding your diet of the following pro-inflammatory foods:

• Processed meats (like ham and bacon)
• Sugary drinks
• Trans fats
• Processed grains (like white bread and white pasta)
• Processed snack foods (like chips and crackers)
• Desserts (like cookies, candy and ice cream)

You’ll likely see an improvement in cholesterol as well.

Be careful of how much alcohol you consume, as it is also pro-inflammatory. If you are drinking red wine for its heart-protective benefits, keep it to one glass. Also, reduce stress levels to help lower inflammation.

Sources:

Women’s 30-Year Heart Risk Can Be Predicted by Just Three Factors — MedPage Today

Blood Test of Three Factors Predicts 30-Year Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke and Cardiovascular Death in American Women — Mass General Brigham

Blood test predicts 30-year cardiovascular disease risks for women — National Institutes of Health

The post ‘Ignored biomarkers’ predict 30-year heart disease risk appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Inflammation is a characteristic of RA and a host of other diseases. One of those other diseases is heart disease, which people with RA are more susceptible to.

All this inflammation may be why people with RA are also twice as likely to develop blood vessel disease, which can lead to serious complications, as well as an increased risk of premature death.

One such blood vessel disease is atherosclerosis, also known as hardening of the arteries, which occurs when sticky fatty plaques build up on the walls of the arteries, restricting blood flow. These blockages can also break free and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Researchers want to understand why RA patients are at a higher risk of these health problems so they can develop better treatments. One recent discovery they’ve made could mean there’s good news on that horizon…

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»

The magic of molecule RvT4

To better understand the causes of blood vessel disease in people with RA, a team of UK researchers explored the role of a group of molecules called 13-series resolvins (RvTs). Studies in arthritis have found that levels of one of these molecules, RvT4, are significantly reduced, which indicates a higher degree of blood vessel disease.

In the study, the researchers treated arthritis mice with RvT4. This resulted in reduced blood vessel inflammation through the reprogramming of macrophages, a group of white blood cells accumulated in the diseased vessels, to release stored lipids.

The team observed these lipids were preventing the macrophages from doing their usual tasks of clearing dead cells and reducing inflammation in the blood vessels. Once they released these lipids, the macrophages were able to move and work more effectively to reduce the causes of atherosclerosis.

To put it simply, treatment with RvT4 could enhance the body’s natural defenses against atherosclerosis.

“The study is important because it identifies for the first time the loss of RvT4 production as a potential new cause of blood vessel inflammation in the context of arthritis, offering a mechanistic explanation on the cause of this important disease in RA patients,” says Jesmond Dalli, a professor at Queen Mary University of London.

Often, RA patients also have metabolic dysfunction, which is thought to make vascular disease worse. So, the researchers gave RvT4 to mice engineered to develop characteristics of metabolic dysfunction, advanced atherosclerosis and arthritis. And this led to an overall decrease in lipoprotein-associated cholesterol and an increase in the ratio of HDL cholesterol to total cholesterol.

This is a breakthrough in understanding the processes involved in atherosclerosis in RA patients and could lead to better treatments for people who have RA and are at higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Peak Golden Oil^™

Support for Inflammation and Optimal Immune Balance!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Getting resolvins naturally

As exciting as this research is, it will be years before its medical potential is realized. Until research into this molecule discovery results in new treatments, you may find it helpful to add omega-3 fatty acids to your diet.

One study found resolvins are formed from omega-3s and bind to a receptor called GPR32. This activates the receptor’s ability to counteract inflammation in blood vessels essentially switching off the inflammation and stimulating tissue repair and healing.

Omega-3s are primarily found in oily fish, like mackerel, sardines, salmon, herring and oysters. If you don’t or can’t eat seafood, you can also get omega-3s from flax seeds, chia seeds, walnuts and soybeans.

Unfortunately, you’d have to eat large amounts of these foods to get the recommended amount of omega-3s.

But supplementing is safe and easy, especially if it contains krill oil, which has a structure that makes it easier for cells to absorb, which also equates to little or no “fish burps.” Also, krill oil tends to be cleaner, lacking the high mercury levels and other contaminants often found in fish oil.

Sources:

Study finds new treatment to reverse inflammation and arterial blockages in rheumatoid arthritis — ScienceDaily

Resolvin T4 enhances macrophage cholesterol efflux to reduce vascular disease — Nature Communications

Rheumatoid arthritis — World Health Organization

Rheumatoid Arthritis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

The post The weird connection between RA and atherosclerosis appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

On the one hand, keto has been shown to help with body fat reduction — particularly the visceral fat in your belly that can raise your risk of heart disease. It also has been connected to lower blood pressure and reduced inflammation in the body and brain.

On the other, low carbohydrate diets like keto have been linked to atrial fibrillation and diabetic ketoacidosis. And while it can help with weight loss in the short term, its high fat and caloric content make it difficult to maintain that weight loss over the long term.

Now there’s even more evidence keto isn’t all it’s chalked up to be…

That’s because it can increase the risks of developing high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes — both risk factors for stroke — by disrupting your gut microbiome.

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 triple whammy that links keto and stroke

University of Bath researchers studied 53 healthy adults for up to 12 weeks. Participants followed one of three diets: a moderate sugar diet (the control group); a low-sugar diet where less than 5 percent of calories came from sugar; and a ketogenic low-carbohydrate diet where less than 8 percent of calories came from carbs.

After 12 weeks, the researchers found the keto diet raised cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad cholesterol), and increased apolipoprotein B (apoB), which causes plaque buildup in arteries. By contrast, the low-sugar diet significantly reduced LDL particle cholesterol.

Lead researcher Dr. Aaron Hengist noted that if this increase in cholesterol is sustained over years, it “could have long-term health implications such as increased risk of heart disease and stroke.”

The keto diet also altered the composition of the gut microbiome, including a decrease in Bifidobacteria. Often found in probiotics, Bifidobacteria produce B vitamins, inhibit pathogens and harmful bacteria and lower cholesterol. Sugar restriction, by contrast, did not significantly impact gut microbiome composition.

“Dietary fiber is essential for the survival of beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria,” says Dr. Russell Davies, who led the microbiome research. He noted the keto diet reduced fiber intake to around 15 grams which is half the recommended daily intake.

“This reduction in Bifidobacteria might contribute to significant long-term health consequences such as an increased risk of digestive disorders like irritable bowel disease, increased risk of intestinal infection and a weakened immune function,” Davies adds.

Finally, the keto diet reduced glucose tolerance. This means the participants’ bodies became less efficient at handling carbs.

Javier Gonzalez, who oversaw the research, notes while the keto diet lowered fasting glucose levels, it also reduced the body’s ability to handle carbs from a meal.

“By measuring proteins in muscle samples taken from participants’ legs, we think this is probably an adaptive response to eating less carbohydrates day to day and reflects insulin resistance to storing carbs in muscle,” Gonzales says. “This insulin resistance is not necessarily a bad thing if people are following a ketogenic diet, but if these changes persist when people switch back to a higher carbohydrate diet it could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the long term.”

Peak Blood Flow^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Still good for weight loss

Now for the good news: both the low-sugar and keto diets resulted in fat loss. At 12 weeks, the keto diet resulted in an average of 2.9 kg in fat loss per person, while individuals on the sugar-restricted diet had an average fat loss of 2.1 kg. Both these diets achieved fat loss without changing physical activity levels.

Researchers also observed the keto diet shifted the body’s fuel preference from glucose to fat, which resulted in significant changes in lipid metabolism and muscle energy use.

Based on these results, the researchers conclude that if you’re looking to lose weight, a low-sugar diet will be better for most people than a keto diet, since it promotes fat loss without any apparent negative health impacts.

Whichever of these diets you choose, it couldn’t hurt to supplement it with probiotics to protect your gut health. While probiotic supplements in pill form are good for convenience (as long as the bacteria are live), it’s even better to get your probiotics from fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha. These foods come with additional nutrients like vitamins, minerals and fiber, which can further support good health.

Sources:

Ketogenic Diet reduces friendly gut bacteria and raises cholesterol levels – University of Bath study — EurekAlert!

Ketogenic diet but not free-sugar restriction alters glucose tolerance, lipid metabolism, peripheral tissue phenotype, and gut microbiome: RCT — Cell Reports Medicine

The effects of probiotics on cholesterol levels — Easy Health Options

Low-carb diet tied to common heart rhythm disorder — Science Daily

The post Keto’s gut changes that raise your stroke risk appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It increases the risk of joint issues like osteoarthritis, breathing problems like asthma and sleep apnea, gallstones and gallbladder disease.

Obesity can also lead to heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, more than a dozen types of cancer and premature death.

Diet and exercise (or lack thereof) play a role in weight gain. But so do hormones, so any tip to make things just a little easier is golden, right?

Well, I have one for you that could help make fighting obesity as simple as adding this newly designated superfood to your diet…

Peak Thyroid Support^™

Specially Formulated with Essential Nutrients to Support Healthy Thyroid Function!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Pecans slay pesky pounds

A team of researchers from the United States and Mexico applied whole pecans, a pecan polyphenol extract and high-fat diets to mice models to see what impact they might have on the development of metabolic abnormalities.

According to the results, supplementing a high-fat diet with whole pecans or a pecan polyphenol extract

• Reduced fat mass by 44 percent and serum cholesterol by 40 percent;
• Enhanced glucose tolerance by 37 percent, prevented the enlargement of pancreatic islet cells;
• And increased oxygen consumption by 27 percent!

How do pecans work their magic?

The researchers found these beneficial effects were connected with increased activity of brown adipose tissue, a type of fat that actually burns calories, as well as mitochondrial oxidative metabolism in the liver and skeletal muscle.

And there’s more…

The researchers also observed anti-inflammatory properties in pecans. The mice fed pecans or pecan polyphenol extract showed a reduction in low-grade inflammation, which can lead to chronic inflammation and subsequent inflammation-related diseases.

Dr. Luis Cisneros-Zevallos, a professor at the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and affiliate scientist in the Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, says the results show pecans maintain body weight and prevent diabetes despite consuming a high-fat diet.

“Obesity and diabetes numbers are increasing in modern society worldwide, and the trend in high fat diet consumption is one of the main reasons besides lifestyle and genetic predisposition,” Cisneros-Zevallos says. “People are searching for healthier options, and we have now shown pecans are a healthy tool consumers have in their hands.”

Due to this new functionality, the researchers indicate pecans can be designated a superfood that can be consumed directly or utilized as a functional food or dietary supplement.

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»

The superfood reputation stacks up

We often think of pecans as a holiday food. But given how healthy they are, they should be seen as a year-round treat.

For one thing, they’re loaded with monounsaturated fats, which help reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. A previous study found that eating pecans lowered levels of both total cholesterol and LDL (the “bad” type of cholesterol) 10 percent more than a diet specifically designed to reduce cholesterol. And a second study showed that adding pecans to participants’ daily diet lowered cholesterol more effectively than exercise.

The minerals found in pecans help maintain and improve cognitive function. Pecans also contain antioxidants like flavonoids that help control the free radical damage that can lead to inflammation. And they’re a great source of copper and manganese, two hard-to-get trace minerals essential for bone health.

Pecans contain fiber, which contributes to good digestion, a healthy weight and improved blood sugar levels. Plus, pecans contain vitamin A, which protects the skin from premature aging, and zinc and vitamin E, which help keep skin clear.

Given all these benefits, plus their potential to combat obesity, it makes sense to add this superfood nut to your daily diet. But be careful — because of their high fat and carbohydrate content, pecans have a lot of calories. A one-ounce serving of pecans (roughly ¼ cup) contains about 201 calories.

To maintain a healthy diet, you’ll want to limit your intake to a small handful or two of plain, unsalted pecans a day. Even better, use that small handful or two to replace any less-healthy calorie-heavy snacks you find yourself eating too often.

Sources:

Pecans give obesity and diabetes a slim chance — EurekAlert!

Pecans and Its Polyphenols Prevent Obesity, Hepatic Steatosis and Diabetes by Reducing Dysbiosis, Inflammation, and Increasing Energy Expenditure in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet — Nutrients

Childhood Obesity Facts — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Nuts and your heart: Eating nuts for heart health — Mayo Clinic

The post The nut that slays pesky pounds, diabetes and high cholesterol appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

They are primarily known for their role in promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall well-being. The gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and even mental health.

Probiotics should not be confused with prebiotics which are typically complex carbohydrates that microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract use as metabolic fuel.  Prebiotics support probiotics and keep them functioning at their best. 

Probiotics help maintain a balanced gut microbiota by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria, enhancing the gut barrier function, and modulating the immune response.

This balance is vital for preventing gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Beyond gut health, probiotics have been linked to various other health benefits, including improved heart health, enhanced immune function and reduced inflammation.

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»

Probiotics and Cholesterol: The Research

Recent scientific studies have shown that certain probiotic strains can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. 

One notable study demonstrated that a specific probiotic formulation could reduce cholesterol esters, particularly those associated with saturated fatty acids, which are known to contribute to cardiovascular disease. While LDL declined in this study, HDL (good) cholesterol and triglyceride levels remained unchanged.

Limitations: Addressing Other Risk Factors

While the reduction in bad cholesterol is promising, it’s essential to recognize that probiotics alone do not address all cardiovascular risk factors. High blood pressure, for example, requires its own management strategies, such as lifestyle changes, medication, and dietary adjustments.  Smoking might affect the microbiome but is not caused by it.  

Meanwhile, although diabetes and obesity may be aided by dysregulation of gut microbe function, overcoming that dysfunction alone (with medications like Ozempic for example) without addressing the reason WHY the microbiome is not working properly in the first place (diet) will cure little.  Diabetes and obesity are probably more prebiotic than probiotic-related diseases.   

So, probiotics, though beneficial for cholesterol management, should be seen as part of a broader strategy for heart health that includes addressing these other risk factors — and their drivers — as well.

Probiotics: Pill Form vs. Food Form

When it comes to incorporating probiotics into your diet, there are two primary options: probiotic supplements in pill form and probiotic-rich foods. Each has its advantages and potential drawbacks.

Pill Form:

Convenience: Probiotic supplements are easy to incorporate into daily routines and ensure a consistent intake of specific probiotic strains.

Concentration: Supplements can provide higher concentrations of probiotics compared to some foods.

Targeted Strains: They allow for the selection of specific strains known for particular health benefits.

Lack of Context:  Consuming any dietary component or supplement outside of its natural food context may diminish the full biologic impact.  Plus, if you don’t also change what you eat you will not be addressing the root cause of why your microbiome is messed up in the first place.

These findings suggest that probiotics can effectively target and reduce specific components of cholesterol that are harmful to heart health without adversely affecting other lipid levels in the blood.

Peak Colon Support^™

Promotes Healthy Digestion and Elimination, Naturally!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Food Form:

Natural Integration: Probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha, naturally integrate into meals and snacks. 

Additional Nutrients: These foods often come with additional nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which can further enhance health.

Palatability: Many people find the taste and texture of probiotic foods enjoyable, making them an easy dietary addition.

Having said all that, research indicates that both forms of probiotics can be effective. Some people may find it easier to take a daily supplement, while others might prefer to consume their probiotics through delicious, nutrient-rich foods. I’m sure you can guess which side I come down on!

Where Step One Foods Fits In: Step One products are not probiotics, but they are full of prebiotics that are natural accompaniments to probiotic-containing foods.  For example, putting Anytime Sprinkle on yogurt supplies you not only with probiotics that may help lower cholesterol additionally, but also the specific nutrients those probiotics need to function at their best.  Kefir with Smoothie Mix is another winning combination.

We often hear from customers who are blown away by how much better their digestive system functions when using our foods. I’m never surprised.  After all, our products not only lower cholesterol in their own right, they also add fiber and provide our microbiome with the nutrients needed to keep everything moving happily along.

The post The effects of probiotics on cholesterol levels appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The best solutions are usually natural, like a fermented tea known as kombucha, which is already known to have an indirect benefit to those who want to lose weight.

That’s because kombucha has a positive effect on a few aspects of health that are crucial to healthy weight loss.

But now research has revealed that this fermented tea could have a more direct benefit as a natural weight loss aid…

Peak Blood Flow^™

Poor circulation can impact your eyesight, your ability to sleep and cause headaches, discomfort and swelling — among other more serious concerns. The tell-tale signs of a circulation problem are… MORE⟩⟩

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

2 ways kombucha aids in weight loss

You’ve probably seen kombucha at your grocery store or local coffee shop, but its origins go back several thousand years to Northeast China.

It’s a great way to kick any diet plan into high gear without taking any of those dangerous stimulant drugs for weight loss.

So what exactly IS kombucha?

It’s a fermented black tea that’s loaded with probiotics, and it delivers two main health benefits:

It promotes a healthy gut. Kombucha is one of the richest sources of probiotics you can find. Probiotics are a proven way to colonize your gut with healthy bacteria, which promotes weight loss.

One probiotic species in particular, Lactobacillus gasseri, has been known to reduce visceral fat (the dangerous fat around your midsection), by up to 9 percent after three months.

It helps your body detox. Kombucha acts as an antioxidant. Its active components help detoxify your liver so that you can clear out the waste. Combined with the good bacteria kombucha supplies your body, this helps you get your diet off on the right foot.

We’ve known about these two benefits for a while. But new research is revealing that kombucha can have an even more direct effect on weight loss by triggering a “fasting-like” state…

Peak Organic Alkalizing Greens^™

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

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Microbes in kombucha increase fat-burning

A research team at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has found evidence that the microbes found in kombucha can mimic the fat-burning effects of fasting.

A team led by Dr. Robert Dowen fed microbes found in kombucha tea to the worm C. elegans. Because the cells of these worms age in ways similar to human cells, they are often used as a model to find out more about human metabolism.

The microbes colonized the worms’ intestines and changed the expression of genes involved in fat metabolism. This change caused reduced fat stores in the worms, similar to what happens when humans fast.

The authors of the study emphasize that more research is needed in humans but noted that their findings appear consistent with the reported human health benefits of kombucha.

“We were surprised to find that animals consuming a diet consisting of the probiotic microbes found in Kombucha Tea displayed reduced fat accumulation, lower triglyceride levels, and smaller lipid droplets — an organelle that stores the cell’s lipids — when compared to other diets. These findings suggest that the microbes in Kombucha Tea trigger a “fasting-like” state in the host even in the presence of sufficient nutrients.”

Peak Digestion^™

Protects You From Unwanted Effects of Gluten Ingestion, Calms Stomach Upset and Supports Digestion!

Buy Now!

⟨www.PeakNatural.com⟩

«SPONSORED»

Other benefits of fermented foods

Kombucha’s effect on metabolism doesn’t surprise me one bit.

Fermented foods have a long history of known health benefits besides helping with weight loss. In fact, fermented foods tackle a driving force behind many chronic health issues.

For example, studies show that lactic acid is a good way to fight off influenza. And fermented foods are full of lactic acid.

Also, eating fermented foods in combination with more fiber has been shown to help regulate stress and reduce anxiety.

Other such foods include sauerkraut and kefir. But, the Japanese have really mastered the art of fermentation.

They’re known for several healthy dishes made with fermented soybeans in various forms, including tempeh, miso, kimchi and natto (a food that contains the highest amount of artery-loving vitamin K2).

Fermentation of food and drink is a lost art. In the old days, fermentation took the place of refrigeration. It preserved food, but now science has shown many times over that fermentation gives up valuable natural substances that boost health.

Sources:

Kombucha’s Microbial Magic: New Study Shows Fat-Busting Effects — Sci Tech Daily

Kombucha Tea-associated microbes remodel host metabolic pathways to suppress lipid accumulation — PLOS Genetics

Consuming probiotics promotes weight loss and reduces BMI — Medical Express

The post Kombucha: The bacterial boost your metabolism needs appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

And that’s true…

After all, studies have shown that fat cells actually release hormones that fuel the growth of breast cancer. 

And they’ve determined that losing weight helps take the aggression out of breast cancer cells.

However, after doctors took a deep dive into data from the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) randomized trial, it’s become clear that obesity alone does not drive breast cancer risk or the risk of death from the cancer.

In fact, the researchers say that there are actually four factors that work together to determine whether or not a breast cancer prognosis is poor, as well as mortality risk — and weight is only one of them.

The cancer dangers of metabolic syndrome

In addition to obesity, those factors include:

• High blood pressure
• Abnormal cholesterol
• Elevated blood sugar

And together, they make up a condition known as metabolic syndrome.

It’s a cluster of symptoms that have already been shown to boost your risk of heart-related problems and raise your kidney cancer risk by five times.

And now, it appears that the syndrome might just be behind a dangerous rise in breast cancer statistics.

A score of three or more signals danger

The study that discovered this link appeared in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.

The analysis included 63,330 postmenopausal who were part of the WHI. All the women began the study with normal mammograms and zero history of breast cancer before being followed for an average of approximately 23 years.

At the beginning of the research, doctors assigned each woman a metabolic syndrome (MetS) score of 0-4 based on how many of the metabolic issues, such as high blood pressure or blood sugar issues they experienced.

And sure enough, more was definitely not better when it came to metabolic scoring, whether obesity was part of the picture or not.

The research showed that a higher MetS score (3–4), regardless of obesity, was associated with more poor-prognosis, estrogen receptor (ER)-positive, progesterone receptor (PR)-negative breast cancers. And those higher scores also came with a 44 percent higher risk of breast cancer mortality.

On the other hand, obesity, regardless of MetS score, was associated with more good-prognosis, ER-positive, and PR-positive cancers — except if the obesity was considered severe.

If a postmenopausal woman was about 5 feet, 6 inches tall, and weighing greater than 218 pounds, the risk of breast cancer mortality was higher.

In other words, MetS beats weight when it comes to increasing breast cancer and breast cancer mortality risks.

Screening for metabolic syndrome

The good news is that understanding your risk of breast cancer due to MetS is easy.

In fact , as study lead author Rowan T. Chlebowski, MD, PhD points out, “Determination of MetS scores in the clinic requires only three questions regarding cholesterol, diabetes, and hypertension history as well as waist circumference and blood pressure measurements, which are commonly determined during routine visits.”

There are even three simple diagnostics you can do at home to help determine whether you have the syndrome.

And there’s even more to feel good about since negative metabolic factors are completely treatable and even reversible with lifestyle factors…

A few easy tips for fighting MetS include:

• Boosting vitamin D – The sunshine vitamin helps your body make defensins, an internal antibiotic that keeps bad bacteria in your gut in check. And when your gut is healthy, metabolic syndrome has a hard time getting a foothold in your body.
• Sipping away metabolic problems – Green tea is full of an antioxidant called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) that has anti-inflammatory effects, protecting the heart and brain, promoting weight loss, and controlling blood pressure.
• Doing a diet DASH – The DASH diet has been shown to dramatically lower diabetes risk, reduce cholesterol and blood pressure and help with weight loss — the four factors that makeup MetS.
• Exercise – Previous research has shown that if fat cells are releasing cancer-causing hormones into your body, your first priority should be to get rid of some of those fat cells, and exercise works when it comes to fighting breast cancer. Here are 5 scientifically backed ways it offers protection. And more research has shown that exercise is the single best habit for a breast cancer-free future.

Remember, to reduce breast cancer risk, it takes more than weight loss. Focus on all four of the MetS factors — including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol and obesity — for better overall health, breast health and cancer prevention.

Sources:

How do obesity and metabolic syndrome affect women’s risks of breast cancer and cancer-related death? — EurekAlert!

The post 4 factors that weigh heavy on breast cancer risk and death appeared first on Easy Health Options®.