Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble micronutrient found in a wide range of plant-based foods. Considered a vital nutrient for overall health, vitamin C plays a key role in various bodily functions. For instance, vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of tissues, as well as the absorption of iron. It also fortifies the immune … Continue reading An essential dietary component for immune health: Natural sources of vitamin C
Exploring the beneficial effects of Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng on metabolic parameters
In this study, researchers at the University of Marilia in Brazil evaluated the effects of Rhodiola rosea (rose root) and Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) on metabolic profile and muscle damage parameters. Their findings were published in the Journal of Medicinal Food. Adaptogen-based formulations have been used not only in traditional medicine but also in medical practice to increase the resistance of individuals.R. … Continue reading Exploring the beneficial effects of Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng on metabolic parameters
How can TCM help with mild cognitive impairment?
In this article, researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) in Australia evaluated clinical evidence for various Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) used to treat mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Their review was published in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. It is estimated that MCI affects six to 12 percent of the population. Early treatment, however, … Continue reading How can TCM help with mild cognitive impairment?
Scientists review the effects of DHA and EPA treatments on male infertility
Researchers in Iran and Australia evaluated the effect of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation on sperm parameters in infertile men. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements. The researchers searched in PubMed, Google Scholar and Scopus for relevant literature published between January 1, 1990 and December 20, 2017. … Continue reading Scientists review the effects of DHA and EPA treatments on male infertility
Compounds in celery found to reduce cholesterol and prevent tumor growth in animal study
The Apiaceae (umbellifers) family consists of mostly edible, flowering and aromatic plants, such as carrots, parsley, anise, coriander, Queen Anne’s lace, parsnip and celery. They are some of the most extensively studied edible plants on the planet because of their abundance of medicinal components, which give them various beneficial properties. Celery, for instance, contains apigenin, a compound that can stimulate … Continue reading Compounds in celery found to reduce cholesterol and prevent tumor growth in animal study
Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
Researchers at the Federal University of Technology in Nigeria evaluated the effects of the aqueous extract of garlic, white onion and purple onion on the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a-amylase and a-glucosidase in vitro. They reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements. Spices are used in cooking and serve as ingredients in several traditional … Continue reading Extracts from garlic, white onion and purple onion exert inhibitory effects against enzymes linked to diabetes and hypertension
Understanding how niacin treats high cholesterol levels
Niacin is a B vitamin commonly used by your body to turn food into energy. It is also known as vitamin B3 and helps keep your nervous system, digestive system and skin healthy. As a supplement, niacin may help ease arthritis, boost brain function and reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, among many other benefits. Studies also show that niacin can improve … Continue reading Understanding how niacin treats high cholesterol levels
Study reveals vitamin C is key for stroke prevention and promoting heart health
Strokes are some of the most common medical conditions in the United States. So common, in fact, that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 795,000 people in the United States have a stroke every year. Of these cases, 610,000 are classified as first or new strokes, while 185,000 — or nearly 1 of 4—are … Continue reading Study reveals vitamin C is key for stroke prevention and promoting heart health
Fight inflammation with the help of these 6 powerful vitamins
Inflammation is a key immune response to infection or injury. It means that immune cells are actively helping the body to heal. But inflammation that persists could be a sign of an underlying health problem. If the body is in a state of chronic inflammation, it is unable to heal properly. Over time, chronic inflammation could lead … Continue reading Fight inflammation with the help of these 6 powerful vitamins
Medicinal plants: Potent antiviral herbs to add to your diet
Congestion, fever and sore throat are all symptoms that could point to a viral infection. Fortunately, there are many potent herbs that have been used since ancient times to prevent a viral infection or reduce its severity. These herbs’ antiviral properties can be attributed to the numerous potent compounds they contain. These phytochemicals not only help fight harmful viruses, … Continue reading Medicinal plants: Potent antiviral herbs to add to your diet
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 