Did you know the acai fruit is a powerful antioxidant? 

This dark purple berry grows 30 to 50 feet above ground on very skinny palm trees and looks somewhat like a grape. It has been a dietary staple in the Amazon rain forest for centuries, but in the last 10 years has been making it’s mark on the US as a superfood.

The power in the acai fruit lies in it’s rich antioxidant skin. Antioxidants fight internal rusting, so to speak, and the acai delivers more than any other fruit or vegetable. By testing blood, researchers at Texas A&M University found that acai juice raised blood antioxidant levels by 2.3 times, and pulp tripled them.

Other researchers found that acai protects the brain against aging and neurological diseases. This fruit may even reduce damage from high-fat meals and extend lifespan. You can find acai in many juices, foods, beauty products and dietary supplements.

This little berry packs quite a punch.

Did you know you can find lasting relief from acid reflux and heartburn WITHOUT drugs? 

You may think acid reflux is caused by too much stomach acid coming up the esophagus, however, it’s actually the LACK of stomach acid that triggers the body to react and cause you pain. Without sufficient acid, food can’t be broken down.

More than 20 million prescriptions per year are written for the leading acid reflux drug. Yet drugs of this type, which REDUCE stomach acid, have some serious side effects including increased risk for a second heart attack, factures in the hip, wrist, and spine, and depletion of magnesium. So what are the NATURAL alternatives to treat acid reflux?  

A quick and healthy remedy is apple cider vinegar. A tablespoon per day keeps the acidity in your stomach balanced and takes away heartburn. To enhance the breakdown of food, take digestive enzymes before or with meals.

Probiotics also do a great job to help breakdown food in the small intestine. Taking d-limonene, found in citrus rinds helps muscles in the digestive system to contract rhythmically and keep food moving in the right direction.

Cool the burn of acid reflux with these great tips.

Did you know your constant lack of energy could be caused by something serious? 

Do you have trouble moving in the morning without a heavy dose of caffeine?  Or you can’t keep going during the day without still more caffeine?  The problem might not be your hectic schedule and lack of sleep. You could be suffering from adrenal exhaustion, a consequence of our stress-filled 21st century lives.

You have two adrenal glands, each located at the top of your kidneys. They release a variety of hormones that help maintain biological balance in response to stress. The more stress you experience, the harder your adrenal glands work to protect you. When stress is chronic the body ramps up production of cortisol, which helps buffer against the stress.

Adrenal exhaustion develops when the body can no longer make sufficient amounts of cortisol, leading to fatigue. Over the long run, adrenal exhaustion can weaken your body’s response to bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitical infections AND increase your risk of cancer. Supplements that can help with adrenal exhaustion are B-Complex which are anti-stress nutrients and Vitamin C which makes adrenal hormones.

Take the best care of your body.

Did you know garlic can keep your heart beating longer? 

Aged garlic extract is one of the most effective supplements you can take to mitigate a variety of cardiovascular risk factors. Recent studies show that this pungent herb lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation, prevents the oxidation of LDL, also know as bad cholesterol, plus improves the elasticity of blood vessels and keeps blood platelets from sticking together.

What’s more, a double-blind, controlled trial conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles found that combining Aged garlic extract with coenzyme Q10 resulted in nearly four-fold reduction in the progression of coronary artery calcification also know as CAC. The build up of CAC contributes to reduced blood flow and less arterial flexibility.

When looking for the right aged garlic extract supplement, opt for one created from organic garlic cloves that have been naturally aged for up to 20 months without the use of heat or chemical solvents.

Did you know that inside air is typically more polluted than outside air?

The EPA says that indoor air contamination is our number one environmental health problem. Amazingly, Scientific American magazine said that when a baby crawls on the floor, he or she breathes in the equivalent of four cigarettes a day of polluted air.

For all our efforts at keeping our homes clean and our families healthy, our modern sealed-in homes and building materials aren't doing us any favors. The bottom line is, no matter how often we clean, we're exposed to toxic chemicals every day.

If you find yourself tired all the time, having difficulty going to sleep, and constantly dealing with a runny nose or itchy eyes, there is definitely hope. Try non-toxic household cleansers. Secondly, invest in a great air treatment system.

Next, always take good supplements, like a comprehensive multi-vitamin/mineral complex, fish oil, and a good immune support supplement. Probiotics are also really important for anyone suffering with allergies.

Try some of these solutions and breathe easy.

Did you know about the good nutritional strategies you could use if you suffer from allergies?

Those who have allergies can have a really tough time any time of year. You may have to carry a box of tissues around or sometimes feel like you should stay indoors when everyone else is outside. You may have even reached for medicines to help with allergies.

Most medications tend to block histamine, but those can make you tired. And allergy shots come with their own set of side effects. To deal effectively with allergies, we have to start with diet. Eat foods high in nutrition with anti-fungal properties and try antifungal supplements like caprylic acid, olive leaf, and apple cider vinegar.

Probiotics are another great way to combat allergies. Several studies have shown that when people take probiotics consistently, they tend to have fewer allergy symptoms. Take a multivitamin with plenty of vitamin c in it.

This also helps reduce histamine and calm symptoms. Be sure to research the host of nutrients that can help keep allergies away.

Did you know that when you’re hungry, sometimes it’s because you’re thirsty? 

If you’re not drinking enough water throughout the day, get ready for ravenous hunger. Try drinking more water all throughout the day, especially when you’re hungry for no reason.“No reason” means that you’ve eaten a proper amount of a proper meal, but you’re still hungry a half-hour later.

Or you just remain ravenous regardless of how much you’ve eaten. But maybe we drink plenty of water and are still hungry. What could that be?  Sometimes, we crave tastes more than we’re actually craving more food. Cravings aren’t the same as hunger.

Craving is like lust, not love. A craving can provoke us to eat when we’re really not hungry at all. There is also emotional or psychological hunger. Maybe we just thought of a snack we hadn’t had in a while. Maybe we’re bored. Maybe we’re nervous.

Maybe we’re addicted due to specialized chemicals, from other foods, that makes us crave, even when our stomachs are full. It’s literally like a drug. Remember, the cleaner you eat, the more GOOD fat you eat, the more stress is UNDER control, the more water you drink, AND the more creative you get with GOOD foods, the LESS hungry you will feel.

Did you know that laughter can help calm Alzheimer’s patients? 

People with Alzheimer’s often become extremely agitated, making a difficult situation even more problematic for patients and caregivers alike. But a recent study indicates that giving Alzheimer’s patients a reason to laugh may tone down verbally and physically aggressive behavior.

A team of Australian researchers enrolled nearly 400 nursing home residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia in a three-month study. The residents attended weekly sessions involving mime, music and laugh-inducing props, and were actively encouraged to respond and participate in the fun.

Overall agitation dropped 20 percent and this improvement held steady for at least 14 weeks after the program ended. Proverbs 17:22 reminds us that a joyful heart is good medicine. If you or someone you know is a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimer’s, try adding laughter to their daily routine to ease their stress AND yours.

Did you know that amino acids are the only compounds your body uses to build or replace muscle tissue? 

Amino acids have been called the building blocks of protein. Twenty amino acids are needed to build the various proteins used in the growth, repair and maintenance of body tissues. They can not be stored in an available form in your body.

Without enough protein, your muscles become weak and flabby. Your body has a pre-established order of which organs need the amino acids first. If your protein supply is inadequate, your body will cannibalize your muscle tissue to supply the amino acids to your heart, brain and other vital organs.

In other words, your vital organs will breakdown and consume your muscle tissue. Essential amino acids can not be manufactured in the body and must be obtained from food or supplementation. Take a good look at your diet and be sure your eating right. If your diet is lacks in certain nutrients, you may need to add supplements to fill the gaps to get the amino acids you need.

Did you know that anemia is America’s most common blood disorder? 

The National Heart, Blood, and Lung Institute states that over 3 million Americans have anemia while millions more are at risk. Anemia occurs from losing too much blood, having less than the normal number of red blood cells in the blood, or when red blood cells don’t have enough hemoglobin, a protein that gives blood it’s red color.

Anemia also deprives the body of oxygen, and without blood-delivered oxygen, the body ceases to function efficiently and can experience irreparable damage to organs and tissues. Inadequate nutrition is the most common cause of anemia. So how to you prevent or cure anemia? 

Increase your intake of essential nutrients especially iron, vitamins B6, B12, and folate through diet and supplementation. Interestingly, iron absorption is increased when combined with vitamin C, so let’s not forget about vitamin C’s roll in healthy blood.

Get the nutrients today to keep anemia away.

Did you know that the antioxidants from food sources may be the most important anti-aging nutrients you can have?

Antioxidants are the anti rusting nutrients. We now know that our bodies are always under assault by something called "free radicals". These do to our bodies what rust does to metal. The bad news is, there's no way to avoid them.

Just breathing oxygen generates free radicals. But you CAN help neutralize them and minimize their damage with a few simple strategies. The first way is to eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, especially berries. Part of the reason these foods are so good for us is that they contain antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.

Of all the foods tested, berries have been shown to have the highest sources of antioxidants. An almost overlooked source of antioxidants also comes from the seeds of these berries. The seeds contain a concentrated source of antioxidants that not only can limit free radical damage, but can also boost the immune system while providing antifungal support.

Help your body stay young with anti-oxidants.

Did you know that apple cider vinegar has many healing properties? 

Studies have shown adding apple cider vinegar to your diet helps with diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol and even weight loss. In one study, drinking 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, in water before meals, was shown to lower fasting blood glucose among adults at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Other research concluded that drinking apple cider vinegar may help lower high blood pressure AND reduce triglyceride levels. Apple cider vinegar also supports liver detoxification and overall circulation.

Holistic practitioners recommend it’s use for reducing acidity within the body and balancing pH, as well as easing indigestion, combating candida yeast, and breaking up mucus throughout the body.

The best apple cider vinegar to keep on hand is one that is NOT pasteurized. Pasteurization can weaken or even destroy the vinegar’s natural enzymes and other nutrients. Be sure to purchase apple cider vinegar that has “the mother” in it which is strandlike enzymes that occur naturally and are visible in bottles of unpasteurized apple cider vinegar.

Who knew this kitchen pantry item could be such a super food?  

Did you know essential oil aromatherapy can be used to battle colds and flu? 

Here are seven essential oils that offer a surprisingly powerful boost to your immune system.

The leader of the pack has to be eucalyptus. This oils super antibacterial properties fight germs and ease congestion.

Second is cinnamon which has powerful antifungal and antioxidant properties.

Next is clove… great for opening nasal airways and improves breathing. Black pepper is less aggressive than cinnamon or clove, yet still effective for easing influenza’s aches and pains.

Lavander encourages restful sleep which is one of the best remedies when fighting a cold or flu.

Next on the list of beneficial essential oils is green mandarin. Distill this light citrus oil before bedtime. It’s safe for even the most fretful, feverish child in the family.

Lastly is Grand fir, a great decongestant that also offers anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties, especially when combined with clove.

Kick the cold and flu season to the curb quickly with essential oil aromatherapy.

Did you know Arthritis is one of the most common health problems in America? 

It can range from a mild stiffness to a completely debilitating condition. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints breaks down. Pain is caused when joints rub against each other. Whether you’re struggling with arthritis or you want to prevent it, here are some things to consider. First, be mindful of your diet.

A healthy diet with anti-inflammatory vegetables like onions and garlic could really be useful. Plenty of monounsaturated fats like olive oil, and omega-3 fats like fish oil can also help with the inflammation. Supplements that have been used successfully are glucosamine and chondroitin. Chondroitin is the main component of cartilage, so supplementing with it seems logical.

Glucosamine works along with chondroitin to help alleviate pain. A sulfur supplement called MSM also works very well with this combo. MSM helps the body utilize nutrients better, and can also help with flexibility.

Do some research and find ways to fight arthritis.

Did you know eating artichokes could actually help your liver? 

Artichokes are known to be a liver-friendly food and artichoke extract is often included in comprehensive liver formulas. Why? Because the plant is a wonderful source of silymarin, the active ingredient in the most important herb for liver - milk thistle.

The leaves also contain a number of active chemical compounds that have been found to be beneficial across the range of health issues. Did I mention artichokes have amazing antioxidant power! 

One of the largest studies of antioxidants in food conducted by the USDA ranked artichokes seventh among the top 100 foods. Artichokes are a nutrient superstar because they provide more than 15 percent of your total recommended daily allowance for four or more different vitamins and minerals.

One medium artichoke contains 72 mg of magnesium, a whopping 425 mg of heart-healthy potassium, and a really substantial 6.5 grams of fiber. All for only 60 calories.

Now that’s a good nutritional deal no matter how you slice it.

Did you know artificial sweeteners can actually hurt you?  

Although they are promoted as solutions to obesity and diabetes, artificial zero-calorie sweeteners actually contribute to these problems, according to the Israeli research published in the journal Nature. Through a series of tests with both animals and people, researchers found that artificial sweeteners change the composition of gut bacteria, sometime in as little as one week.

This can lead to weight gain and type 2 diabetes. So, what are some healthy alternatives?  Natural, no calorie sweeteners such as Stevia, Erythritol, Monk fruit, and Xylitol are great options. They are all plant-based and NOT manufactured by man. Some other natural sweetener options include honey. Honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, plus contains antioxidants.

Coconut sugar contains zinc, potassium, iron, and inulin ~ a fiber that feeds beneficial gut bacteria. Pure maple syrup contains a variety of antioxidants and can provide an energy boost before and after intense exercise. Remember, when it comes to sweetening options for your food…stay FAR away from artificial sweeteners.

They are NOT your friend.

Did you know that Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, has been diagnosed in as many as twenty percent of school-age children in the U.S.?

Many people are worried that we're actually over-diagnosing our kids with this. But whether or not these kids actually should be diagnosed with a disease, the biggest concern should be the treatment. Ironically, the drugs most often used to treat ADD are stimulants, like amphetamines.

The net result that many parents have shared is that their kids are either hyperactive or zombies most of the day. Even though the role that diet plays is controversial, it shouldn't be. Many parents surveyed, who’s children have been diagnosed with ADD admit that sugar plays a central role in their kid's diet. Try transitioning your child  to the Phase One Diet.

Information on this diet can be found at Know The Cause dot com. Try eliminating everything in their diet that isn’t actually food – things like additives, preservatives, food dyes, and hormones. Emphasize good fruits and veggies and a good multi-nutrient supplement with plenty of minerals. Calcium and magnesium can help calm down the nervous system, and vitamin B6 is also important for normal mental function.

Get educated on ADD and get to the root of the problem.

Did you know ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is not just a problem in children? 

Adult ADHD affects almost 5% of the population. Left untreated, it can result in stress, depression, obesity, and addictive behaviors such as smoking and drug use. Adult ADHD symptoms include  lack of attention to detail, being easily distracted or forgetful, losing things, a general feeling of restlessness, a tendency to be easily bored, or spending money impulsively.

Pharmaceuticals such as Adderall or Ritalin are commonly prescribed, however, often have significant side effects. A number of recent studies have pointed to specific herbs, supplements, and other holistic treatments that can help such as zinc.

Zinc regulates brain chemical activity and improves cognitive function. It also reduces signs of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Foods high in zinc include oysters, red meat, turkey, chicken, beans, nuts and dairy products.

Research some great natural ways to keep your mind on track.

Did you know there are 20 trillion immune cells in your body? 

Each of us has an unbelievably complex immune system designed to protect us against all intrusions into the body that may cause harm. Your immune system is your primary natural defense against disease and aging. Beta glucan is a fuel for your immune system to enable a faster, larger, and extended immune response. It’s like adding a turbo boost to your immune cells.

Beta glucan also has powerful antioxidant attributes which enables the immune system to fight back against health invaders such as fungus, bacteria, viruses, parasites, radiation and even diseases like cancer and diabetes.

If you have a suppressed immune system, Beta glucan helps to regenerate it. If you have an overactive immune system and experience allergic reactions, Beta glucan helps to calm it. Joined with proper diet, moderate exercise, adequate rest and reduced stress, the immune system can be maintained or in many instances returned to peak condition with the help of Beta glucan.

Did you know that blood sugar control could be as simple as going to your spice rack?

Too many people have an opportunity to control their blood sugar naturally but are reaching for prescription drugs. The bad news is, medication for blood sugar control isn't even primarily designed to deal with the disease itself, just the symptoms.

If you have Type 2 diabetes and can change your diet to include vegetables, berries, lean proteins, and good fats, chances are you'll see good results. Next, look at simple supplements like cinnamon and chromium picolinate. Cinnamon is delicious AND healthy for us. Studies are being published about this common spice. reducing fasting blood glucose by as much as 30%. It's also shown to have great antifungal properties.

But why not combine cinnamon with the gold standard blood sugar nutrient, chromium picolinate? Chromium picolinate helps insulin work better, which means better control of your blood sugar.

Do some research on these tips and more to keep your blood sugar at a healthy level.

Did you know bone broth offers amazing health benefits? 

For as long as humans have been cooking food over fire, bone broth – which is the simmering stock of bones otherwise discarded – has been a daily part of life, celebrated by cultures around the world. Not only does bone broth add depth of flavor to recipes and meals, it also imparts significant and broad health benefits that are now capturing the attention of millions.

Bone broth is typically rich in protein, collagen, gelatin, glucosamine, chondroitin and key minerals often missing in diet. These vital nutrients support a wide range of health benefits and body systems including healthy detoxification for the gut and immune system, healthy joints and lean muscle mass, healthy vibrant skin, hair and nails, metabolism and a healthy weight. It is natural, gluten free, dairy free, soy free, grain free and nut free.

It is also perfect for those following a Paleo diet. Some companies have even turned this health wonder into a protein powder that can be taken on the go in smoothies or used as a base in soups and stews. Find out how this ancient practice can be used today.

Did you know that if you want optimum bone health, you'll need more than just Calcium?

According to the National Institutes of Health, over 25 million Americans are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is often associated with inadequate calcium intake. There's no question that calcium is essential. It helps our nervous system, protects the heart, builds our teeth and bones, and may even protect us against cancer.

But it’s not the only nutrient that can help protect our bones as we age. Vitamin D is essential for the transport and absorption of calcium. Actually, vitamin D is a hormone. It can be formed when our skin is exposed to sunlight, which is another excuse for us to head outdoors!  So how else can we protect our bones as we age?

There is no doubt that exercise is essential. Studies have shown that as we build muscle, our bones adapt to the extra tissue by building up and strengthening. We also need to add lots of vegetables to our diet to help strengthen our bones AND take a good mulit-vitamin. Together, all these things will give us the nutritional foundation for a healthy frame.

Did you know that nutrition is the key in helping impaired memory and mental function? 

Memory loss and decreased brain power seem inevitable as we age. But there IS something we can do about it. Brain cells are the  most complex, long living, and nutritionally demanding cells in the body. Studies have shown that intelligence, memory, behavior, and concentration are ALL influenced by nutrition.

Young or old, our nutritional status plays a vital role in determining how well our brain functions. A key goal for brain health is to bathe the brain in super nutrition. Vitamin B supplementation can slow the atrophy of specific brain regions that are the key component of the Alzheimer’s disease process and that are associated with cognitive decline.

Other supplements include ginkgo biloba, grapseed, celery seed and pine bark extracts. Plus of course EPA and DHA combined from a quality fish oil. The best brain FOODS are fish, olive oil, and non-starchy vegetables and fruit, especially blueberries. It’s time to put your nutritional thinking caps on.

Did you know how sophisticated supplements have become for brain function? 

Clinical trials have shown that good multivitamin and mineral supplements help raise moods in elderly people, even if they had mild depression. A standard over the years for focus has been Vitamin B12. It is a great vitamin and when taken in the right doses, can help us think better and give us more energy.

A fairly new supplement over the past 20 years is Vinpocetine (vin-po-se-teen). It comes from the periwinkle plant. Vinpocetine helps increase blood flow to the brain, increases oxygenation to the brain, and improves neurotransmitter function.

Another powerful supplement for brain function is procaine. Procaine has been used for decades in Europe for peak brain function. It's also been used for chronic fatigue syndrome, sleep disorders, moderate depression, and as an antioxidant.

Other supplements like Ginkgo and fish oil, as well as strategies like exercise and proper sleep can really keep your brain functioning well at any age.

Did you know that your brain weighs in at only 3 pounds? 

Though it’s small, it’s imperative that it be kept healthy. Your brain controls countless tasks every second of every day. While most of us think of the brain as the center of our consciousness and keeper of our memories, it also regulates body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. Plus it directs your muscles and nerves so you can walk, stand, and sit.

Yet, as we age, blood flow to the brain decreases, causing it to utilize oxygen and nutrients less efficiently. As a result, brain cells don’t communicate as well as they once did, making it harder for the brain to process thoughts, retain memories, and create new cells. Fatigue, stress and overwork can also have a negative impact on the brain.

Some essential brain supplements include Bacopa and Gingko Biloba. Both help with brain function, blood flow to the brain, memory and mental agility. These supplements combined with a nutrient rich diet, aerobic exercise, and stress management can help to keep you brain functioning on all cylinders.

Did you know that aging isn’t the only culprit that depletes our mental capacity? 

People can begin experiencing mental lapses at relatively young ages. Studies have shown that some often experience cognitive decline after surgery. A major medical journal reported that people with diabetes are at risk for developing mental challenges earlier in life than those without the disease.

Other reports reveal people as young as 18, who have high blood pressure, can experience a decline in mental function - as can those with heart disease. The use of alcohol and tobacco can contribute to the problem, as well.

So how can we stay sharp?  The first thing we can do is exercise. Exercise can increase circulation to the entire body, bringing valuable nutrients to our cells. Equally critical is our nutrition. Grass-fed beef, fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables should be the cornerstone of our diet.

Recently, science has found that a ½ -cup of blueberries each day, along with fish oil, can be a great way to keep our minds sharp along with taking supplements like Ginkgo biloba.

Feed your brain what it needs.