Omega-3 Fats Help Lower Premature Death Risk by Eighty Percent

Many people make the potentiallyfatal presumption that aging, chronic diseases and premature aging are naturalevents that come with advancing years. A plethora of current research studiesconfirm that nothing could be farther from the truth. In addition tosuper-nutrients such as resveratrol, curcumin and vitamin D optimization,researchers publishingin the American Journal of ClinicalNutrition and Clinical Cardiologyprovide documented evidencethat beneficial Omega-3 fatty acids from dietary sources and supplementationslash the overall risk of an early death.

The long-chain fats DHA and EPAelicit a profound effect on the heart and brain to ameliorate chronic diseasesthat bring an early demise to millions of unsuspecting individuals each year. Health-mindedindividuals today are used to hearing about the myriad of benefits associatedwith eating fish and supplementing with Omega-3 fats.

Omega-3 Fat Supplementation Slashes Risk of All-Cause Mortality in Half

A wealth of peer-reviewed studiesprovide solid evidence that the DHA and EPA fatty acids help to prevent heartdisease and sudden death from a heart attack, lower depression incidence andreduce stroke and dementia risks as well. New research shows that optimalOmega-3 blood levels lower the risk of dying from all causes by 85% in highrisk patients who had suffered a prior heartattack.

Intrigued by the result of thisresearch, scientists wanted to understand if mortality was affected inindividuals with no evident heart disease. A group of men aged 64 to 76 yearswere supplemented with Omega-3 fats (2.4 grams per day) for a period of 3years. During that time, the participants showed a 47% reduction in risk ofdying from any cause compared to a placebo group. Women experienced a 44% lowerrisk of death in a similar study.

Omega-3 Fats Lower Systemic Inflammation and Balance Omega-6 Ratios

Researchers from the AmericanHeart Association journal Strokecommented on the ground-breaking conclusions of multiple Omega-3 studies, “Evidence from prospective secondaryprevention studies suggests that EPA+DHA supplementation ranging from 0.5 to1.8 g/d (either as fatty fish or supplements) significantly reduces subsequentcardiac and all-cause mortality.” Omega-3 enriched foods and supplements helpto improve the critical balance with Omega-6 fats to lower systemicinflammation. This provides the primary risk-reduction mechanism associatedwith the long-chain fat.

In addition to fatty fish(salmon, snapper, scallops and shrimp), non-meat food sources of Omega-3’sinclude walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, raw tofu and cooked soybeans. The bodydoes not efficiently process EPA and DHA fats from vegetarian sources, thoughstrong evidence exists that these food sources still provide exceptional healthbenefits. To be certain you achieve optimal Omega-3 blood saturation levels asreferenced in these studies, nutrition experts recommend supplementing with 2.4grams per day of combined EPA and DHA (read package labels to ensure properdose). When supplementing, check that the fish oil (krill oil is also anexcellent option) is molecularly distilled to avoid contamination.

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Omega-3 Fats,Stroke

Olive Oil and Nuts Lower Heart Disease Risk Better Than Pharmaceuticals

More vindication for a naturalMediterranean-style diet including plenty of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) andnuts was released in an advanced study published by the prestigious journalAtherosclerosis. Early results from aSpanish study with more than 7500 participants’ demonstrates that highquantities of dietary EVOO and a variety of different species of nuts is moreeffective in managing and preventing a heart event than traditional drugtherapy.

Many physicians place theirpatients on the standard prescription of beta blockers and ACE inhibitors in adesperate effort to prevent advancing heart disease, even though repeatedstudies prove these drugs are detrimental to long-term health. Include copiousamounts of EVOO and nuts in your diet to dramatically lower heart disease riskand avoid the need for risk drugs.

Study Provides Proof of Natural Diet over Drugs in the Fight againstHeart Disease

To conduct the study, researchersplaced the participants into one of three groups following either aMediterranean style diet receiving 15 liters of EVOO over a 90 day period, a nutgroup consuming 30 grams per day of walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts or a standardlow-fat diet. Among those participants over the age of 55, the scientists foundthat carotid artery thickness was significantly reduced in the EVOO and nutgroups for individuals with already thickened arterial walls.

Researchers commented,“A modification in the entire dietpattern managed to achieve in just one year, results that pharmaceutical drugsdid not – even after two years of treatment.” Lead study author, Dr. MiguelAngel Martinez-Gonzalez was impressed that a diet concentrated on natural foodsources high in beneficial fats improved cardiovascular risk outcomes more thanPharma options. The study also found that the traditional low-fat (highcarbohydrate) diet frequently prescribed by physicians and dieticians today hasno health benefits and allows for heart disease to progress unabated.

Monounsaturated Fats From EVOO and Nuts Improve Vascular Elasticity

Most alternative healthpractitioners understand that a dramatic reduction of wheat-based carbohydratescoupled with increased monounsaturated fats and Omega-3 sources can provide forvascular elasticity to lower risk of heart disease and stroke. No drug can makethe same claim, despite billions of dollars spent to market and promoteunnecessary pharmaceutical options to millions of unsuspecting patients.

Dr. Martinez-Gonzalez concluded “We thus observed… a significant improvementand regression of lesions having taken place in those cases that had followed aMediterranean diet enriched with virgin olive oil or nuts.” After just 90days of EVOO or nut consumption, lipoprotein ratios improved enough to deliversignificant improvement in heart disease risk for both men and women followingthe diet. To lower your risk of heart disease, adopt a Mediterranean-style eatingpattern and be certain to include a healthy dose of EVOO (unheated) and unprocessednuts (not roasted, cooked or heated).

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Nuts,Olive Oil

Green Tea Affects Genes to Improve Cholesterol Metabolism

Green tea consumption has beenshown to benefit many health issues ranging from help with weight management tocancer prevention and treatment. New research publishedin the British Journal of Nutritionexplains that the natural extract from the Camellia sinensis plant has a powerful effect on cholesterolmetabolism in the human body.

Most forward thinking health professionals now understand that dysfunctionin the LDL cholesterol pathway lays the foundation for cardiovascular healthproblems, cancer and fatty liver disease. Regular green tea consumption is nowshown to improve healthy LDL cholesterol function, enabling the fatty moleculeto efficiently usher excess cholesterol from the body and improve risk factors formany chronic disease conditions.

Green Tea Alters Gene Expression Lower LDL Cholesterol Levels

In one of the first studies ofits type, researchers performed DNA microarray analysis to examine the effectof the active compound found in greentea called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Scientists specificallytargeted the catechin to determine their effect on cholesterol metabolism inHepG2 hepatocytes. They determined that the expression levels of several genesrelated to cholesterol metabolism, including the LDL receptor, were changed byEGCG treatment.

EGCG was found to boost thefunction of the LDL receptor on liver cells. Researchers commented“This is very important as properfunction of the LDL receptor enables your liver to “capture” circulating LDLand recycle it.”  In this study,green tea is shown to alter gene expression toward healthy LDL cholesterolmetabolism by improving receptor acceptance by the liver. The liver displays animproved capacity to capture and filter LDL cholesterol for removal from thebody.

Green Tea Improves Biomarkers to Lower Heart Disease, Cancer andDementia Risks

In addition to the finding that greentea alters LDL cholesterol metabolism, ECGC was found to inhibit genes toreduce the production of Apolipoprotein B (ApoB). ApoB formation is required toinitially form LDL molecules in the blood. Excess production of ApoB is asignificant marker for chronic illnesses ranging from cardiovascular diseaseand heart attack to increased risk of cancer and dementia.

Green tea and the active compoundEGCG are quickly ascending to nutritional “superstar” status. The Chinese haveextolled its virtues for countless generations. Researchers now document theprowess of this nutrient by scientifically validating the direct impact exertedon our genetic structure to affect healthy cholesterol function and removalfrom the body. The healthy benefits of green tea are realized by drinkingseveral fresh brewed cups of organically harvested leaves each day orsupplementing with 250 to 500 mg of EGCG extract.

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Posted in: Alzheimer's Disease,Cancer,Green Tea,Heart Disease

Milk Thistle Protects the Liver, Heart and Brain

The liver is one of the mostcritical organs essential to human health. It serves more than 300 functions inthe body to detoxify against chemical and environmental intrusions, andpromotes metabolic function as well. Silymarin is commonly known as milkthistle and new science is emerging to validate the healing potential of thispowerful plant.

Publishing in the journalHepatitis Monthly, researchers providesolid evidence that natural milk thistle extracts can halt and even reverse theeffects of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), an affliction affecting asmuch as a third of the adult population. Supplementation with milk thistle willdramatically lower the risks associated with fatty liver disease,atherosclerosis and cognitive dysfunction.

Milk Thistle is a Powerful Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Agent

NAFLD is a significant healthconcern that is growing at an unprecedented rate due to the obesity anddiabetes epidemic currently gripping most western societies. The condition iscaused in part by excess accumulation of fats (triglycerides) in the cellularmatrix of the liverthat result in suboptimal function of the organ. Left unchecked, the diseasecan result in cell injury and damage, inflammation and ultimately to cirrhosisas the liver becomes less able to perform the multitude of tasks essential tolife.

Researchers found that the plant extract has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and becomes concentrated in hepatic tissue soon after ingestion. They found that silymarin promotes liver tissue regeneration by supporting multiple critical metabolic functions including lower oxidized LDL cholesterol levels, regulation of membrane permeability and stability and preventing the deposition of collagen fibers, leading to cirrhosis. In addition, milk thistle inhibits the absorption of many toxins, effectively preventing them from entering circulation through the bloodstream.

Silymarin from Milk Thistle Fight Arterial Hardening and Cancer

Silymarin is known to be apowerful cellular antioxidant with specific properties that can prevent excessoxidation of LDL cholesterol. Oxidized LDL cholesterol particles are sticky andbecome lodged in the delicate endothelial layer of coronary artery vessels wherethey combine with other blood-borne compounds to form plaque. Natural milkthistle extracts (570 mg per day) have proven effective to lower risk factors thatpromote arterial hardening.

Milk thistle has been used as achemopreventive agent in the fight against certain cancer lines, most notablymetastatic cancers of the prostate. Silymarininterferes with cancer growth and immortality, and exhibits anti-inflammatoryand anti-metastatic activity (preventscancer spread). Extracts of milk thistle have also been used as an agent in thewar against numerous malignancies including those of the liver, colon and skin.

Our body is continually underassault from a barrage of more than 70,000 chemicals and 900 drugs known toinduce liver damage. Milk thistle supplementation provides an effective tool toprotect and heal our primary filtration organ, the liver. Silymarin is alsoproving to be an important tool that can naturally lower cancer risk, whileproviding critical support for the heart and prostate.

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Posted in: Cancer,Heart Disease,Milk Thistle

Chocolate and Cocoa Compounds Lower Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke

Researchers from the Universityof Cambridge in England have finally published solid evidence to demonstratethe consumption of chocolate is associated with improved heart and vascular health.Writing in the prestigious BMJ(British Medical Journal), Dr.Oscar Franco and his team determined several factors including diet, exercise, bodyweight control and lifestyle changes could help reduce the risk of heartdisease, a condition expected to claim the lives of nearly 24 million peopleworldwide by the year 2030.

The study authors found that theantioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cocoa from chocolate consumptioncould reduce heart disease risk by one-third and could also reduce the risk ofsudden death from a heart attack and stroke incidence.

Cocoa from Dark Chocolate Improves Cardiac Risk Markers

The study included an analysisof seven detailed research bodies that included more than 114,000 participants.All studies independently pointed to the conclusion that different levels ofchocolate consumption were associated with a substantial reduction in the riskof cardio-metabolic disorders. Researchers found that the flavonoids passed tochocolate from the cocoa bean have a positive impact on health and were foundto regulate insulin sensitivity and maintain blood pressure in the normalrange.

Researchers ranked chocolateconsumption among participants in the seven studies from highest to lowest todetermine the effect of the cocoa flavanols on human health risk factors. Fiveof the seven studies showed that eating the highest amount of chocolate significantlyreduced the number of cardiac events. In particular they found those who atethe most chocolate had a 37% lower risk of having a cardiovascular incidentcompared to those who ate the least.

Chocolate Consumption Lowers Risk of Stroke by Nearly Thirty Percent

When assessing other riskfactors, the study authors found that the highest chocolate consumers had a 29%lower incidence of stroke compared to the lowest chocolate eaters.Interestingly the researchers found that high levels of chocolate consumptionspecifically lowered the risk of a cardiac or stroke event but did not impactheart failure, another very serious form of heartdisease and death. The studies examined did not differentiate between milkand dark chocolate, and included chocolate desserts, biscuits, chocolate barsand drinks. Prior research has indicated maximum benefit from eating dark,bitter chocolate with a high cocoa content.

The authors did provide a word ofcaution regarding excess consumption of chocolate particularly becausecommercially available chocolate is very caloric and eating too much of itcould in itself lead to weight gain, risk of diabetes and heart disease. They concluded, “Based on observational evidence, levels ofchocolate consumption seem to be associated with a substantial reduction in therisk of cardio-metabolic disorders.” Individuals looking to take advantageof the health benefits of chocolate may want to use a cacao bean extract supplement(25 to 50 mg per day) to reap the cardiovascular and stroke risk reductionbenefits.

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Posted in: Cocoa,Heart Disease,Stroke

Vitamin K Prevents Arterial Plaque and Slows Cognitive Decline

Vitamin K is a critical nutrientwidely known for its ability to promote normal blood clotting. A wealth of new informationdemonstrates that this vitamin in its multiple forms can provide a powerfulanti-inflammatory shield to protect against many lethal diseases of aging. Writingin theJournal of Nutrition, researchersshow that vitamin K works with other fat-soluble nutrients to protect the brainfrom arterial calcification that leads to a stroke or cognitive decline.

Vitamin K works to prevent thedeposition of calcium within arterial walls and ushers the mineral toward thenormal construction of bone throughout the body. The research provides proofthat eating a healthy diet to maintain adequate stores of vitamin K over alifetime can help prevent arterial hardening, atherosclerosis and cognitivedecline.

Vitamin K Slows Cognitive Decline by Supporting Brain Health

To determine the effect ofvitamin K on cognitivefunction, researchers studied three groups of mice that were broken into a low,adequate, or high level of vitamin K supplemented in their diet over the courseof their lifetime. Vitamin K is a fat soluble nutrient that can easily crossthe blood-brain barrier to provide antioxidant support to a critical organ composedprimarily of omega-3 fats. 

Researchers found that vitamin K playsan important role in “maintaining thewhite matter region of the brain by supporting the myelin sheathing thatprotects axons, connecting glial cells together with axons, and facilitatingthe speed at which your brain functions.” Animals with the lowestsupplemental vitamin K levels displayed the highest degree of cognitive declineas they grew older, compared with the highest vitamin K group.

Vitamin K2 Inhibits Coronary Artery Calcification to Halt Heart Disease

Scientists publishing in the journalAtherosclerosis determined the effectof vitamin K on 564 post-menopausal women. The study was designed to contrastdietary intake of both the phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and menaquinone (vitaminK2) with coronary artery calcification (atherosclerosis or hardening of thearteries). Researchers found that the K2 form of vitamin K was associated witha significant decrease in coronary artery calcification, while vitamin K1 didnot appear to impact disease progression.

Dark green leafy vegetablesprovide a healthy dose of vitamin K1 but are not a significant source ofvitamin K2, the form shown to yield protection against arterial hardening anddementia. Fermented foods such as natto, egg yolks and certain cheeses providehigh levels of K2, although many people may choose to avoid these foods. Health-mindedindividuals will need to supplement with a quality supplement providing thefull range of vitamin K isomers (1000 - 2000 mcg per day) to avertatherosclerosis and cognitive function decline.

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Posted in: Cognitive Decline,Heart Disease,Vitamin K

Lutein Reduces LDL Cholesterol Particle Size to Prevent Heart Disease

Lutein has long been known as apowerful nutritional agent useful for protecting vision in aging adults andprotecting against the sight-robbing condition known as macular degeneration.New research publishedin The Journal of Nutrition findsthat the carotenoid exhibits health-promoting anti-inflammatory and antioxidantbenefits that help to lower plaque forming oxidized LDL cholesterol particlesthat promote arterial hardening and heart disease.

Lutein is found in abundance indark green leafy vegetables including spinach, broccoli, kale and cabbage. Mostadults and children should include a healthy serving of these vegetables aspart of a nutritionally balanced diet or look to supplement daily tosignificantly lower heart disease risk from coronary plaque accumulation.

Lutein Accumulates in the Retina to Prevent Macular Degeneration

The study examined two groups ofguinea pigs known to exhibit similar vascular characteristics to humans. Bothgroups were fed a diet high in cholesterol-laden foods for a period of 12weeks, and half were supplemented with lutein. Carotenoids such as lutein are known to circulatein the blood and are stored by the body for future use when tissue saturationis reached. Research to date has shown how lutein accumulates in the retina to preventmacular degeneration and support vision, but little is known about how thecompound impacts cardiovascular health.

Researchers understand thatmammals with the highest levels of carotenoids circulating in their blood havethe longest lifespan. Scientists were able to provide evidence that lutein iscontinually being stored and drawn from tissue deposits as needed. The antioxidantand anti-inflammatory properties of this important carotene provides asignificant degree of protection against the formation of arterial plaque andatherosclerosis. Lutein reduces the number of small, dense oxidized LDLcholesterol particles that compromise the elastic nature of the arteries thatsupply blood to the heart.

Lutein is Concentrated in a Diet Filled with Fresh Fruits andVegetables

This is one of the first studiesto demonstrate that carotenoids such as lutein can provide health benefits tomultiple organs and should be consumed as part of a natural dietcomprising a rainbow of colors from organic vegetables and fruits. Scientistshave uncovered dozens of carotenoids and concede there are likely many more asyet unknown compounds that exist in a complete matrix of whole foods. 

Interestingly, nutritionalresearchers have found that carotenoids from high quality supplements areeasier to absorb when compared to carotenes from foods that are bound to fiber.Regardless of the source, carotenoids should be part of your daily antioxidantdietary plan to prevent arterial plaque formation and lower the risk ofatherosclerosis.

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Posted in: Diet and Nutrition,Heart Disease,Lutein

Vitamin E Tocotrienols Shown to Halt Heart Disease and Extend Lifespan

Very few people realize that there are eight different fractions of vitamin E known as tocotrienols that are essential to optimal health and protect against vascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Tocotrienols are so critical that new research demonstrates a shortage of these vitamin isomers can lead to premature chromosomal telomere shortening and reduced lifespan.

Reporting in the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, researchers show that tocotrienols can extend the length of the zipper-like genetic strands and protect against DNA damage. Natural food sources for tocotrienols are few, so it may be necessary to supplement with this vital nutrient to reap the amazing vascular and life-extending benefits.

Telomere Length Determines the Ultimate Lifespan of a Cell

The length of a telomere determines how many times a cell can accurately split in the body’s never ending quest to repair itself and eliminate rogue cells that can lead to cancer. Typically cells will divide between 30 and 50 times during a lifetime, a number that varies depending on the cell type. Any mechanism that can prolong the frequency a cell requires to split or can extend the length of the telomere will provide a youth-enhancing extension that down regulates the risk for cancer.

Telomeres are prematurely shortened by free radical attacks and negative lifestyle habits such as smoking, poor diet and lack of physical activity. The result of the Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology study found that the tocotrienol form of vitamin E enabled human cells to undergo telomere lengthening by rejuvenating telomerase, an enzyme known to preserve telomere structure and length. The study also found that tocotrienols prevented damage to delicate DNA strands and allowed the cells to rejuvenate, significantly lowering the risk of cancerous mutations that accumulate over many decades.

Vitamin E Tocotrienols Improve Lipid Biomarkers to Prevent a Heart Attack

A supporting body of research published in the journal Nutrition and Metabolism found that supplementing with tocotrienols (160 mg per day for 6 months) markedly lowered the oxidized LDL lipid profile of adults over the age of 50. The study further determined that a damaging cause of free radicals known as advanced glycation end products (AGE`s) was reduced by the potent antioxidant properties exhibited by the vitamin sub fraction. AGE`s are known to escalate the risks associated with vascular disease (heart disease, stroke and congestive heart failure) and vitamin E tocotrienols provide significant support to halt the development of these deadly conditions.

Tocotrienols are rapidly emerging as a natural nutrient that can provide an invisible shield against chronic diseases that plague many aging adults. They can be found in many foods ranging from nuts and seeds to cold pressed oils, but most health-minded people will want to supplement to ensure a full range of all eight essential forms. In addition to traditional vitamin E listed on many multi-vitamins, be sure to supplement with a full-range formulation that lists all tocotrienols individually to maintain vascular health and lower cancer risk.

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Posted in: Cancer,Diet and Nutrition,Heart Disease,Tocotrienols,Vitamin E

Astaxanthin May Help Prevent Heart Disease, Diabetes and Alzheimer’s

There’s a new kid on the block in the world of natural nutrients that promote optimal health and have a significant impact in preventing chronic disease development. Astaxanthin is a red-orange carotenoid pigment derived from microalgae, fish, and crustaceans that can prevent and even treat conditions that progress from the negative effects of oxidative stress and antioxidant deterioration.

Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to be ten times more powerful that other pigments and carotenoids including resveratrol.  Research details published in The American Journal of Cardiology provide solid evidence that astaxanthin supplemented daily can inhibit the damaging effects of oxidative stress that leads to heart disease, heart attack and dementia.

Astaxanthin Helps Arteries to Relax, Lowering Blood Pressure

Researchers discovered that the potent antioxidant activity afforded by astaxanthin supplementation results in improved cardiovascular health. The super nutrient positively influences endothelial function, allowing the delicate heart vessels to relax. This lowers blood pressure and reduces the number of inflammatory cells that promote deadly arterial plaque known to reduce blood flow to the heart muscle. 

Astaxanthin is further shown to boost the heart`s pumping capacity to maintain normal blood flow to the muscle and other vital organs throughout the body. Researchers found that astaxanthin inhibits the effects of advanced glycation end products (AGE`s) that form through normal cellular function and can increase the incidence of diabetes by altering glucose metabolism. Scientists have demonstrated that astaxanthin reduces markers of oxidative stress and inflammation and improves the way blood flows through the vascular system to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Astaxanthin Reduces Brain Free Radicals to Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease

Compelling research published in the British Journal of Nutrition posits the effect of supplemented astaxanthin on development and progression of Alzheimer`s dementia. One of the significant markers of the disease is the proliferation of phospholipid hydroperoxides (PLOOH) in the blood. Excess levels cause free radical damage in the brain that can damage neural structures and are associated with progression of Alzheimer`s dementia. 

The study found that supplementing with 6 to 12 mg of astaxanthin daily for 12 weeks lowered blood levels of PLOOH up to 50%. Astaxanthin was found to be a potent antioxidant that could easily cross the blood-brain barrier to dramatically lower oxidative stress. Study researchers concluded “These results suggest that astaxanthin supplementation results in improved erythrocyte antioxidant status and decreased phospholipid hydroperoxide levels, which may contribute to the prevention of dementia.” Based on an ongoing body of compelling evidence to support the amazing benefits of astaxanthin, health-minded individuals will want to supplement with 4 to 12 mg daily to support heart and brain health.

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Posted in: Alzheimer's Disease,Astaxanthin,Heart Disease,Supplements

Cut Dietary Carbohydrates to Reduce Body Fat and Disease Risk

Many health-conscious individuals understand that the key to optimal health and well-maintained body weight is achieved by adherence to a reduced carbohydrate diet. Extensive scientific evidence now exists to show that elimination of refined carbs, wheat products and sugar help the body to properly regulate abdominal fat stores and significantly lower chronic disease risks to extend lifespan.

The result of a study provided to the Endocrine Society conference in Boston explains that even a modest reduction in carbohydrate-rich foods promotes the loss of deep belly fat and can reduce the risk of developing Type II diabetes, stroke and coronary artery disease.

Low Carbohydrate Diet Lowers Abdominal Fat Stores

The study included 69 overweight but otherwise healthy men and women. Participants were broken into two groups and were fed either a calorie-controlled low-fat (higher carbohydrate) diet or a low-carb (higher fat) diet, each for an eight week period. The diet for the initial eight-week period consisted of a normal weight-maintenance intervention, while the second interval lowered the calories consumed by 1,000 calories per day.

Researchers measured the participants deep abdominal fat at the beginning and end of each dietary phase using computed tomography (CT) and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scans. Based on the result of these tests, researchers were able to determine that participants consuming the carbohydrate-restricted diet had 11% less deep abdominal fat than the group eating the standard diet.

Interestingly, researchers found that ethnic diversity plays an important role as white participants lost more belly fat than those of other racial backgrounds. The scientists believe this is due to the higher fat concentrations seen in whites, and they benefit most from the loss of abdominal fat.

Reduced Calorie, Low-Carb Diet Significantly Lowers Chronic Disease Risks

Due to the reduction of calories in the second eight week phase of the study, both groups lost weight. Those following the carb-restricted diet lost 4% more total abdominal fat than the group fed the lower fat, higher carbohydrate diet. Principal study author Dr. Barbara Gower commented on the results, “For individuals willing to go on a weight-loss diet, a modest reduction in carbohydrate-containing foods may help them preferentially lose fat, rather than lean tissue.”

This study provides support for a wealth of other research showing that the low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet prescribed by physicians and dieticians over the past several decades is a crucial contributing factor to the overweight and obesity epidemic. This type of diet directly contributes to the proliferation of illnesses including diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Excess visceral body fat dramatically raises the risk of these diseases that are linked to the excessive consumption of carbohydrate rich foods. Participants in the abdominal fat reduction arm of this study consumed 43% of calories from carbohydrates. Carbohydrate food sources included low glycemic offerings such as leafy greens and many types of vegetables and excluded breads, pasta and sweets known to promote overweight, obesity and chronic disease.

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Low Carb Diet

Maintain Optimal Potassium Balance to Lower Blood Pressure and Heart Disease Risk

Increasing incidence of high blood pressure continues to be the most significant factor in death from a heart attack and advancing cardiovascular disease. Elevated blood pressure readings cause thickening of the coronary arteries as micro-cracks develop that the body attempts to correct with deposits of coronary plaque.

Overweight and obesity, smoking, physical inactivity and stress are known contributing factors to the hypertension epidemic. Researchers publishing in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that the imbalance of potassium to sodium in the diet is a significant factor driving high blood pressure. Maintaining an optimized ratio of 2:1 (potassium to sodium) by cutting salty processed foods and increasing natural fruits and vegetables is shown to significantly lower out of control blood pressure readings.

Potassium to Sodium Ratio in Diet is Critical to Improve Hypertension

Potassium from natural food sources has been rapidly depleted from the typical diet due to the dramatic rise in sodium-laden processed foods over the past half century. Combined with a reduction in raw vegetables and fruits that are excellent sources of potassium, the balance of potassium to sodium in the diet has shifted from an ideal ratio of 2:1 to a blood pressure raising rate of 2:3. Current potassium intake is fully one-third that of our generational ancestors and is attributed to the skyrocketing increase in high blood pressure incidence and associated cardiovascular risk.

Researchers examining the potassium intake across 21 countries including the US found that average daily consumption of the mineral ranged from 1.7 to 3.7 grams, well below the recommended daily allowance of 4.7 grams. Similarly, sodium consumption averaged 5 grams per day with many individuals taking in as much as 9 to 12 grams. The recommended sodium intake is 2,400 mg daily and 1,500 mg or less is suggested for those with established cardiovascular risk factors.

Increase Dietary Potassium to Significantly Lower Heart Disease Risk

The study found that only 20% to 30 % of the adult population maintains normal blood pressure readings. The study authors found “An effective way of increasing potassium intake is to follow the guidelines for healthy nutrition more closely, including a higher consumption of vegetables and fruit. In addition, the use of mineral salts in processed foods - by which sodium is partly replaced by potassium - would contribute to an improved intake of both sodium and potassium.”

The study concluded that increasing potassium in the diet has a significant effect on lowering blood pressure and is equal to the effect seen by lowering sodium consumption. Higher potassium intake from natural sources including avocados, spinach, carrots and tomatoes and eliminating sodium-infused processed foods (snacks, soup and fast food) can combine to lower systolic blood pressure readings by 5% to 7%. Improving this single risk factor could reduce hypertension rates enough to dramatically lower cardiovascular risk and heart attack deaths.

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Posted in: Blood Pressure,Heart Disease,Potassium

Abdominal Fat Linked to Increased Risk of Alzheimer’s and Heart Disease

Researchers from the American Academy of Neurology publishing in the journal Neurology have released the result of a study showing that being overweight or obese in midlife significantly increases the risk of developing certain forms of dementia, including Alzheimer`s disease as we age. Worldwide this places 1.6 billion people at risk, including more than half of the US adult population.

Similar research reported in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that even small increases in body weight during midlife significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Both studies conclude you can dramatically lower your risk of heart disease and many forms of dementia by controlling excess weight and participating in regular exercise. 

Overweight and Obese Linked to 80% Higher Risk of Dementia

Researchers examined more than 8,500 twins listed in the Swedish Twins Registry and monitored participants height and body weight over a period of 30 years. The twins were placed into groups based on their BMI (Body Mass Index) recorded during midlife. This information was compared with a diagnosis of dementia after reaching the age of 65.

The study determined that participants classified as overweight (BMI range of 25 to 30) and obese (BMI above 30) at midlife had an 80% increased risk of developing dementia, Alzheimer`s disease or vascular dementia (typically caused by mini strokes) compared to those with normal BMI. The researchers found that the study results confirm the growing body of evidence that controlling or reducing body weight in midlife can significantly reduce risk of dementia. The study author, Dr. Weili Xu concluded “This suggests that early life environmental factors and genetic factors may contribute to the link between midlife overweight and dementia.”

Excess Abdominal Fat Increases Risk of Developing Heart Disease by 50%

Modest weight gain in midlife is shown to play a critical role in developing cardiovascular disease. Scientists from the Mayo Clinic demonstrated that body fat accumulating around the abdomen increases the risk of heart disease and heart attack, even when BMI is in the normal range. Reviewing the results of five studies examining nearly 16,000 individuals with coronary artery disease, researchers found that those with fat stores around the middle were twice as likely to suffer a fatal cardiovascular event, compared with fat found in other body regions.

Researchers found that visceral fat is metabolically active and causes a storm of chemical messengers that fan the flames of systemic inflammation. White abdominal fat stores promote detrimental changes in healthy lipid ratios, blood pressure and blood sugar. Fat stored in other areas of the body such as the legs and buttocks don`t show a significant increase in risk from heart disease.

Extensive research has concluded the negative health consequences of excess body weight. Increased risk of dementia and heart disease can be added to the list of diseases including diabetes, stroke, kidney disease and respiratory conditions. In addition to controlling weight in early and midlife, it is important to limit calories from sugar (including high fructose corn syrup) and wheat food items to discourage fat accumulation around the midsection.

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Posted in: Alzheimer's Disease,Heart Disease,Obesity

Omega-3 Fats Improve Dementia Risk Markers, Lower Heart Disease Risk

Researchers publishing in the journal Nutrition show that Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and natural foods including nuts and seeds can lower levels of dangerous homocysteine, an amino acid linked with increased risk of cardiovascular disease and dementia. Reviewing data from eleven trials including more than 720 study participants, scientists found that introducing Omega-3 fats from dietary or supplemental sources were associated with significantly lowered levels of plasma homocysteine.

Homocysteine is a known atherogenic marker contributing to increased risk of heart disease, heart attack and most recently implicated in the development of Alzheimer`s dementia. Based on conclusive evidence provided by this meta-study and volumes of research over the past decade, most health conscious people should include Omega-3 fats in their diet or supplemental regime to lower chronic disease risk factors.

Omega-3 Fats Lower Homocysteine Levels to Improve Blood Lipid Ratios

Higher levels of homocysteine have been implicated with increased risk from heart disease since the observation that children with elevated levels of the amino acid were at dramatically increased risk from heart disease at an earlier age. B vitamins effectively lower homocysteine saturation levels in the blood by providing methyl groups that cause the compound to be converted to an inert substance that is passed from the body.

The result of this meta-analysis provides evidence that Omega-3 fats effectively lower homocysteine levels by deactivating an enzyme that is necessary in the formation of the dangerous amino acid. Omega-3 fats also improve vascular function by improving LDL and HDL cholesterol lipid ratios. The DHA form of the long-chain fat is also shown to lower the risk of thrombosis (blood clots) while reducing blood pressure and heart rate in subjects at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

DHA Omega-3 Fat Helps Dissolve Brain Amyloid Protein Tangles

Researchers publishing in The Journal of Neuroscience found that DHA boosts levels of a specific protein (LR11) that helps to naturally dissolve plaque tangles in the brain before they can disrupt normal electrical and neurotransmitter functions. Scientists believe that DHA is a nature-supplied nutrient that can help lower the risk of developing this devastating disease, especially when consumed or supplemented from an early age.

It comes as no surprise to natural health practitioners that Omega-3 fats promote vibrant health and dramatically lower the risk of chronic illnesses. Omega-3 fatty acids have been an integral part of the human diet for countless generations, and are incorporated into cell wall structures throughout the body. Omega-3 fats have been displaced in our regular diet in favor of inflammatory Omega-6 fats, causing systemic inflammation and disease. Nutritional experts from the referenced meta-analysis found that .2 to 6 grams of Omega-3 fats consumed daily provide critical support for optimal health and chronic disease reduction.

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Omega-3 Fats

Melatonin Boosts Weight Loss Goals and Lowers Heart Disease Risk

Melatonin is a powerful natural hormone that is well known for its association with circadian rhythms that promote a healthful sleep cycle. Researchers from the University of Granada reporting in the Journal of Pineal Research have found that melatonin helps to control unnatural weight gain without reducing the intake of food.

The hormone was shown to improve blood lipid profiles, lower triglycerides and oxidized LDL cholesterol and boost health-promoting HDL cholesterol. Found naturally in certain fruits and vegetables, small quantities are shown to provide a powerful array of health benefits and promote deep sleep that is so critical to systemic repair functions throughout the body.

Proper Sleep is Essential to Melatonin Secretion and Weight Maintenance

Melatonin is a natural hormone normally secreted by the pineal gland at night time to encourage sleep and levels trail off during the early morning hours as we awaken. The importance of 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep is paramount to cellular repair and maintenance functions that promote vibrant health. New research demonstrates that melatonin exerts control over metabolic functions that determine fat accumulation, obesity and lipids that help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Researchers broke test subjects into three groups where one cohort was supplemented with melatonin. They found that the melatonin supplemented group experienced a significant reduction in body weight with no difference in calories consumed as compared with the non-supplemented subjects. Additionally, they determined that melatonin helped to lower systolic blood pressure and provided a significant improvement in dyslipidemia and hypertriglyceridemia. Improvements in blood lipid ratios and lowering of circulating triglycerides are critical to lowering the overall risk of heart disease.

Proper Melatonin Levels throughout Life Critical to Heart Health

Melatonin is naturally found in some fruits and vegetables including mustard, Goji berries, almonds, sunflower seeds, cardamom, fennel, coriander and cherries. The researchers publishing the result of this study believe this is the first proof that melatonin can act as a critical hormonal agent in the fight against cardiovascular disease and lipid dysfunction. They did note that the protective effect of melatonin was more pronounced in younger subjects in this study prompting dietary intervention or supplementation at an earlier age to yield maximum health benefits.

The study authors concluded"administration of melatonin and intake of food containing melatonin might be a useful tool to fight obesity and the risks associated to it.” In addition to natural food sources, many health-minded individuals will want to supplement with 1 to 3 mg of melatonin each night, taken 30 minutes before retiring to promote sound sleep, avoid unnecessary weight gain and ward off the damaging effects of oxidized blood fats that promote heart disease.

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Posted in: Heart Disease,Melatonin,Weight Goal

Blueberries Prevent Fat Cell Formation and Assist Weight Loss Goals

Multiple nutritional studies have demonstrated that blueberries exert a powerful cardio-protective effect due to the high concentration of polyphenols found in the berry. Researchers from the Texas Woman`s University examined the role this amazing fruit plays in the initial development of fat cells that could have a significant impact on weight reduction efforts and obesity. The result of a study presented to the American Society for Nutrition found that blueberries inhibit the creation of new fat cells by altering lipid metabolism. A daily dose of fresh blueberries may hold the key to natural weight reduction.

Researchers at TWU set out to evaluate whether blueberries play a role in the development and differentiation of new baby fat cells or adipocytes that are the primary vehicle for fat storage in the body. In the past, studies have shown powerful natural polyphenols found in plants to inhibit the formation of fat cells and induce lipolysis, which is the breakdown of fats from cellular storage.

Blueberry Extract is Shown to Inhibit Baby Fat Cell Formation

The study used different concentrations of a wild blueberry extract performed on tissue cultures to determine the effect on fat cell initiation. The blueberry polyphenols showed a dose-dependent suppression of fat cell differentiation. Fat cells exposed to the highest polyphenol concentration showed a 73% decrease in lipid breakdown. Cells exposed to the lowest blueberry concentration exhibited a 27% decrease in lipids.

The lead study author, Shiwani Moghe, MS determined that blueberry polyphenols can inhibit a critical path leading to obesity at the molecular level and may play a significant role in blocking the development of new fat cells. The berry may also play a part in releasing fat from adipocytes that will help millions with the desire to lose weight. She noted “This is a burgeoning area of research. Determining the best dose for humans will be important. The promise is there for blueberries to help reduce adipose tissue from forming in the body.”

Blueberries Prevent Deadly Arterial Plaque and Atherosclerosis

Polyphenols from blueberries have been shown to be effective in the fight against arterial hardening or atherosclerosis. Researchers writing in the Journal of Nutrition found that regular blueberry consumption can help prevent harmful plaques and lesions from increasing in size in coronary arteries. A diet containing blueberries for 20 weeks was shown to reduce arterial plaque lesions from 39 to 58 percent, dramatically lowering risk for a deadly heart attack.

Blueberries have been a natural part of the human diet for countless generations and provide a tasty source of plant polyphenols that prevent coronary artery disease and can assist with weight loss efforts. Include four to eight ounces of fresh blueberries to your diet each day or take an organically produced concentrated extract supplement to naturally improve health and prevent fat cell development.

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Posted in: Blueberries,Heart Disease,Weight Goal

Vitamin D and Acai Berry Help Prevent Arterial Plaque and Heart Disease Risk

Critical research into the importance of vitamin D on vascular health was carried out at the Emory University School of Medicine and reported to the American College of Cardiology. Researchers provided evidence that increasing levels of vitamin D circulating in the blood is essential to improved cardiovascular health and dramatically lowered risk of heart disease and heart attack.

The study included 554 adults with an average age of 47 years. Participants had a typical vitamin D level of 32 ng/ml, with 14% testing as deficient (less than 20 ng/ml) and 33% were insufficient (less than 30 ng/ml). While standard medical practice considers 30 ng/ml to be an ideal minimum level, most natural health experts advise attaining a 25(OH)D reading between 50 and 70 ng/ml for proper cell saturation of the prohormone.

Vitamin D Improves Arterial Elasticity to Prevent Atherosclerosis

Researchers monitored the ability of the participants` blood vessels to relax by inflating and removing a blood pressure cuff from their arms. Blood was then allowed to flow back into the arm and the degree of elasticity measured by means of an ultrasound. They found that arterial elasticity was directly related to the blood level measured for vitamin D saturation. Those individuals with the lowest or deficient readings experienced a much higher degree of hardening.

Participants with the highest readings experienced significantly improved vascular elasticity and lower blood pressure readings. The study author, Dr. Al Mheid noted “There is already a lot known about how vitamin D could be acting here”. Regarding mechanisms responsible for the cardiovascular health improvements Dr. Mheid concluded, “It could be strengthening endothelial cells and the muscles surrounding the blood vessels. It could also be reducing the level of angiotensin, a hormone that drives increased blood pressure, or regulating inflammation.”

Acai Berry Juice Protects Against Arterial Hardening

Research results published in the journal Atherosclerosis provide evidence that acai juice provides powerful anti-inflammatory benefits that protect the delicate coronary arteries from hardening. Researchers found that acai juice protects against the development of atherosclerosis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines that promote arterial thickening and the beginning stage of heart disease.

The juice was shown to lower levels of lipid peroxidation, a process that causes normal LDL cholesterol to combine with oxygen and incorporate with other materials to become arterial plaque. This study found that drinking acai juice altered the expression of 17 genes that contribute to LDL cholesterol oxidation. Health-minded individuals will want maintain proper vitamin D blood levels and drink 4 to 8-ounces of unsweetened acai juice each day (or an equivalent standardized extract) to dramatically lower the health risks associated with arterial hardening.

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Posted in: Acai Berry,Heart Disease,Vitamin D

Green Tea Consumption Shown to Lower Body Weight and Fat Accumulation

Compelling evidence presented in the journal Nutrition Research makes the firm connection between green tea consumption, lowered body weight and reduced levels of dangerous belly fat. Drinking between 5 and 8 cups of green tea each day was shown to lower body weight by 5.6% and decrease abdominal fat stores by 17.8% over a period of 8 weeks.

Green tea consumption has long been associated with lowered risk of cancer, metabolic syndrome and heart disease. This research provides compelling evidence that green tea boosts metabolism to target fat stores and assists weight loss efforts.

Green Tea is Shown to Help Weight Management Goals

Green tea extracts have been researched extensively over the past decade and are shown to dramatically lower the risk of Alzheimer`s disease and dementias, cardiovascular disease and many forms of cancer. Additional studies have shown that the polyphenols in green tea are a significant factor in improved oral health and can provide necessary support for weight management and control. Green tea is composed of four primary polyphenols (epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), epigallocatechin, epicatechin gallate, and epicatechin) that are shown to influence genetic signaling and metabolic rate.

The study was conducted by Polish researchers and used an animal model to determine weight loss and fat accumulation characteristics. The researchers also analyzed cardiovascular risk factors and atherogenesis over an 8 week period. The animals were fed a high fat diet and drank green tea made from either a 1.1% or 2% extract of the active phenolic compound. The results indicate that body weight and fat reduction are dose dependent with maximum results (5.6% lower body weight, 17.8% fat reduction) achieved with the 2% extract.

Green Tea Improves Arterial Elasticity and Reduces Cardiovascular Risks

Researchers also found that both concentrations of green tea extract reduced atherogenesis (initial loss of coronary artery elasticity leading to artery hardening and future heart disease) by 14.3% compared to non-supplemented subjects. The study authors did not determine the mechanism for cardiovascular risk reduction. Prior research has shown that the potent antioxidant content of green tea is responsible for significantly lowered levels of oxidized LDL cholesterol and increased particle size that are consistent with reduced heart disease risk.

This study used the equivalent of 5 to 8 cups of green tea consumed each day to achieve optimal weight management, fat reduction and cardiovascular risk reversal. Researchers found that the green tea concentration is important to achieve optimal weight lowering results. Drink 6 cups of fresh brewed, non-fluoridated green tea daily (or take a standardized green tea extract supplement) to help prevent coronary artery disease, assist weight loss and boost fat reduction efforts.

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Posted in: Green Tea,Heart Disease,Weight Goal