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The Benefits of Nattokinase Are Much More Than Cardiovascular

The benefits of nattokinase are many. While the cardiovascular benefits are already widely known, those for chronic inflammation, cognition and respiratory health, including asthma, rhinitis, and nasal polyps, are less so. However, recent research has shown these benefits are very real and offer much potential.

What is Nattokinase?

The story of nattokinase begins with natto, a dish deeply rooted in the traditional Japanese diet. Natto is made by steaming soybeans and fermenting them with the bacterium Bacillus subtilis. It is known for its sticky texture and unique flavour and has been consumed in Japan for centuries as a health-promoting food. The fermentation process not only enhances the nutritional profile of the soybeans but also produces nattokinase, the enzyme responsible for many of natto’s health benefits.

Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi, a Japanese researcher, discovered nattokinase in the 1980s. While studying natural fibrinolytic (fibrin-dissolving) agents, he found that natto’s enzyme had a remarkable ability to dissolve blood clots. This discovery sparked widespread interest in nattokinase as a natural alternative to synthetic clot-busting drugs, leading to further research into its broader health benefits.

Nattokinase belongs to a group of enzymes called serine proteases, which break down proteins. It plays several critical roles in the body, primarily related to its ability to break down fibrin, which is involved in not only blood clotting but also tissue repair. When fibrin accumulates excessively, it can lead to poor circulation, inflammation, and the formation of blood clots. By breaking down fibrin, nattokinase helps maintain healthy blood flow and supports the body’s natural healing processes. These unique fibrinolytic properties make it a valuable natural compound for improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall wellness. In essence, fibrinolytic enzymes are considered antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, anti-atherosclerotic, and anti-platelet agents, which also have the benefit of demonstrating neuroprotective effects.

The Benefits of Nattokinase Are Many

The health benefits of nattokinase are diverse and backed by a growing body of research. Here are some of its most notable advantages.

As we’ve said, nattokinase helps dissolve excess fibrin, thereby improving circulation and reducing the risk of blood clots. These benefits can support heart and vascular health and may also lower the risk of stroke and heart attack. Studies have shown that nattokinase can also help reduce high blood pressure, further contributing to heart health. It can also help optimise cholesterol levels with no side effects.

Again, by targeting fibrin, which contributes to inflammation, nattokinase can help alleviate chronic inflammation, including arthritis and autoimmune disorders.

Improved circulation and reduced inflammation, in turn, help support a robust immune response and can enhance overall vitality and resilience by enabling the more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body. Some promising research has even shown that nattokinase can help alleviate conditions related to BBB (blood-brain barrier) dysfunction, reduce brain inflammation, and improve cognitive ability.  This research has implications for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and overall cognitive health.

Perhaps less well-known about nattokinase is its ability to reduce the viscosity of mucus and other bodily fluids, improving flow and functionality. This makes it a valuable tool for respiratory conditions, helping to clear airways and improve breathing. This lesser-known property of the enzyme is worth further examining.

The Research-Backed Benefits of Nattokinase for Rhinitis and Asthma

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and asthma are common yet challenging conditions that significantly impact the quality of life. Traditional treatments often fall short. However, recent research highlights the potential of nattokinase as a novel and effective therapeutic option for these conditions.

A groundbreaking study investigated the effects of nattokinase on nasal polyps, nasal discharge, and sputum in patients with CRSwNP and asthma. It found that nattokinase could shrink nasal polyps by breaking down fibrin and reducing the viscosity of mucus in nasal discharge and sputum.

These results suggest that nattokinase addresses two critical factors in these conditions: excessive fibrin deposition and thick, sticky mucus. If mucus is too thick, it’s hard to remove, which promotes inflammation, blocked airways, difficulty breathing, and, as a result, polyp formation.

Background of the Study

CRSwNP is often comorbid with asthma and characterised by persistent inflammation, nasal obstruction, and excessive mucus production. Both conditions are notoriously resistant to treatment, making them challenging. Previous research identified excessive fibrin deposition as a key factor in forming nasal polyps.

In this study, the researchers incubated nasal polyp tissues from CRSwNP patients with nattokinase solutions at varying concentrations. They also tested the effects of nattokinase on nasal discharge and sputum from patients. The results showed significant fibrin degradation and a notable reduction in mucus viscosity, indicating the enzyme’s dual action on inflammation and mucus clearance.

In summary, nattokinase effectively breaks down fibrin in nasal polyp tissues, leading to a measurable reduction in polyp size. The enzyme also significantly reduced mucus thickness, improving airflow and alleviating symptoms in CRSwNP and asthma patients.

The study concluded that nattokinase could be a promising alternative treatment for CRSwNP and comorbid asthma.

These findings highlight the potential of nattokinase as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions. By addressing the root causes of nasal polyps and mucus buildup, nattokinase offers a holistic approach to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Conclusion

Nattokinase is a remarkable enzyme with wide-ranging health benefits. Its ability to break down fibrin and reduce inflammation has made it a popular choice for supporting cardiovascular health. However, its potential doesn’t stop there. More recent research has demonstrated its effectiveness in addressing respiratory conditions like rhinitis and asthma. This offers hope for patients with chronic, treatment-resistant symptoms. Further research is offering promise for blood-brain barrier conditions and cognitive health.

Nattokinase is a natural health solution that demonstrates the power of nature and science. Whether used to promote better circulation, reduce inflammation, or improve respiratory function, this enzyme is a versatile and valuable addition to a wellness protocol. As research continues to uncover new applications, nattokinase is poised to play an increasingly important role in natural health therapies.

Nattokinase bottle and refill pouch

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Olive Leaf Extract: A Mediterranean Gift for Your Health

Olive leaf extract (OLE) is showing promise for improving immunity, aiding heart and circulation, brain health, skin health and sugar balance. Studies have shown it can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and even has the potential for weight loss.

Introduction

A branch of olive leaves is popularly known as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. However, when looking for natural health gifts from around the world, it is becoming more widely recognised that the olive leaf, valued in Mediterranean countries as part of that region’s traditional medicines, has many health benefits.  

Derived from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea), this extract is rich in bioactive compounds, most notably oleuropein. Oleuropein is a type of polyphenol, a class of antioxidants known for their health-promoting properties. In addition, olive leaf extract contains several other beneficial compounds, including hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and various flavonoids, all contributing to its robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Immune System Support: Strengthening Your Body’s Defence Mechanisms

A sturdy immune system is critical for maintaining overall health, especially as various environmental stressors and pathogens are constants in our lives. Olive leaf extract has shown significant promise in supporting immune function. The antioxidants in the extract help neutralise free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases. OLE can bolster the immune system by reducing oxidative stress, making it more efficient at defending the body against infections.

Moreover, some studies suggest that oleuropein can stimulate the activity of certain immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off harmful invaders. This makes olive leaf extract a valuable supplement, particularly during cold and flu seasons, when the immune system is often under increased pressure. Adding zinc can provide even more immune support.

Cardiovascular Health: Supporting Heart and Circulatory System

Olive leaf extract’s benefits for cardiovascular health are well-documented. Its polyphenols, especially oleuropein, have been shown to affect blood pressure regulation positively. They help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the strain on the heart. One study found it just as effective as a popular blood pressure drug treatment.

Research also indicates that OLE can help lower LDL cholesterol levels (often referred to as “bad” cholesterol) while maintaining or even increasing HDL cholesterol levels (often considered to be “good” cholesterol).

Antioxidant Power: Combating Free Radicals and Ageing

Antioxidants play a critical role in protecting the body from oxidative stress, which can lead to cellular damage and accelerate ageing. Olive leaf extract is a powerhouse of antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to any anti-ageing protocol.

By neutralising free radicals, olive leaf extract helps protect cells from damage and supports the body’s overall longevity. This is particularly important for skin health, as oxidative stress can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and other skin issues. Therefore, regular supplementation with olive leaf extract can contribute to maintaining youthful, healthy skin by combating the effects of environmental stressors.

Managing Inflammation: Easing Pain and Discomfort

Chronic inflammation is known to be a significant contributor to various health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and even some cancers. Again, the potent anti-inflammatory properties of OLE also come into play here.

The compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby helping to reduce inflammation in the body. For individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, this can help reduce pain and discomfort. Additionally, olive leaf extract may help prevent the onset of inflammation-related diseases by promoting a balanced inflammatory response.

Antimicrobial Properties: Nature’s Defence Against Pathogens

Long before the advent of antibiotics, ancient civilisations used olive leaves for their natural antimicrobial properties. Modern research has confirmed that olive leaf extract possesses potent antimicrobial effects, capable of inhibiting the growth of a variety of harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

This property makes OLE a valuable natural option for supporting the body’s defences against infections. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals looking to avoid the overuse of antibiotics or those interested in a natural approach to maintaining oral and digestive health, where microbial balance is vital.

Cognitive Health: Protecting and Enhancing Brain Function

As we age, maintaining cognitive health becomes increasingly important. Olive leaf extract’s antioxidant properties extend to the brain, where they may help protect neurons from oxidative damage. Oxidative stress is a known contributor to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Olive leaf extract may help preserve cognitive function and support mental clarity by reducing oxidative stress in the brain. Some studies have even suggested that the polyphenols in olive leaf extract can enhance learning and memory, making it a valuable supplement for those looking to maintain sharp cognitive function throughout their lives.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Supporting Metabolic Health

Another area where olive leaf extract shows promise is regulating blood sugar levels. This benefit is particularly relevant for individuals with insulin resistance or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research has shown the compounds in OLE can enhance insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to manage blood glucose levels. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of OLE may help protect pancreatic cells—the cells responsible for insulin production—from damage. This dual action not only supports current metabolic health but may also play a role in helping to prevent the onset of diabetes-related complications.

In addition, early research on animals suggests that olive leaf extract may also help prevent obesity by regulating the expression of genes associated with weight gain. Additionally, it has been found to potentially reduce food intake.

Incorporating Olive Leaf Extract into Your Wellness Routine

Given its wide range of health benefits, Olive leaf extract can be a powerful addition to your wellness regime. However, always remember to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications. 

OLE is a testament to nature’s healing power. Its potential benefits are wide-ranging and profound, from its immune-boosting effects to its ability to support cardiovascular health, fight free radicals, manage inflammation, and enhance cognitive and metabolic function. In essence, olive leaf extract offers a natural, time-tested option for those seeking to optimise their health and well-being.

Olive Leaf Extract with Zinc

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The Benefits of B Vitamins for Optimal Health

 

 

The benefits of B vitamins for health and well-being are far-reaching. They are crucial for cellular function, energy metabolism, organ and nervous system health, and maintaining healthy skin, brain, and body tissues.

When researching a protocol of supplements for optimal health, the spotlight often falls on popular nutrients like vitamin C, probiotics, D3, and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the significance of vitamin B, a crucial group of nutrients, should not be overlooked. Understanding the benefits of vitamin B can help you recognise its power for optimal health and vitality.

 

The Vitamin B Family

Because B vitamins are water-soluble, they quickly dissolve, are absorbed, and move easily through water-based bodily fluids. The urine excretes any excess water-soluble vitamins as part of this process. As the vitamins are not stored, they are consequently unavailable for long-term use. Therefore, a regular intake of each B vitamin is necessary to maintain optimal levels in the body.

Vitamin B refers to a group of eight distinct vitamins, each playing unique and essential roles in the body:

 

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):

Essential for energy production, thiamine helps convert carbohydrates into energy and is crucial for nerve function, brain, liver, and kidney health. It also aids in the growth, development, and function of cellular development.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):

Helps turn fats, proteins and sugars into energy. Necessary for cellular function, growth, and development and assists in red cell development. It is needed to maintain healthy skin, inside and out, and is involved in regulating body pH.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin):

Supports digestive health, skin health, and the nervous system, including brain function, and helps convert food into energy. It aids DNA production and repair and is involved in inflammation.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid):

Vital for the synthesis of coenzyme A, which is important for fatty acid metabolism and energy production. Involved in the production of hormones such as cortisol and cholesterol. (Cholesterol is vital for all cells because it helps maintain their structural integrity and regulates the fluidity of cell membranes.) It helps maintain healthy skin and hair.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine):

This B vitamin is involved in over 100 enzyme reactions in the body, particularly protein metabolism, cognitive development, and hormone production. Considered a natural antidepressant and diuretic, it also helps balance sex hormones, hence its use for PMS and menopause. It can be useful for assisting the control of allergic reactions, helps to make antibodies and haemoglobin, and aids in maintaining normal nerve function and normal blood sugar.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin):

Essential for carbohydrate and fat metabolism, and it helps maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails. It also plays a part in regulating gene expression.

Vitamin B9 (Folate):

This vitamin is critical during pregnancy for foetal brain and nerves and is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, cell division, and growth. It helps produce red blood cells. It works together with B12 (in the methylation cycle) to methylate DNA and produce neural transmitters.

It’s important to note here that a significant proportion of the general population cannot fully absorb B9 as folic acid. Folic acid must be converted to the active form, a folate known as L-5-MTHF, before the body can use it in the methylation cycle. By supplementing with L-5-MTHF, you can be assured of getting the benefits of folic acid, regardless of your ability to absorb or convert it to the active form.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin):

This vitamin is needed to make use of protein. It also helps the blood carry oxygen, making it an essential part of energy production. B12 is also necessary for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It helps in detoxification and the lowering of homocysteine levels in the blood, thereby reducing the risks of dementia, Alzheimer’s and heart disease.

 

When supplementing with B vitamins, including active and inactive forms of B vitamins is beneficial as they offer distinct benefits. Active forms, such as Riboflavin 5′-phosphate, nicotinamide, pyridoxine 5′-phosphate, adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin, are readily usable by the body without needing conversion, ensuring efficient absorption and immediate utilisation. Inactive forms like Riboflavin and nicotinic acid serve as precursors, supporting metabolic pathways and allowing for a sustained release of active forms over time. This dual approach provides a broader spectrum of benefits, catering to individuals with varying metabolic needs and ensuring comprehensive support for energy production, nervous system health, and overall wellbeing.

 

Some of the benefits of B vitamins for your body

 

Energy and Metabolism

One of the most well-known benefits of B vitamins is their role in energy production. Many are involved in converting food into energy, helping metabolise carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. This ensures your body has the fuel it needs to function efficiently. A deficiency can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels.

 

Brain Function and Mental Health

B vitamins, including B6, B9, and B12, play a significant role in brain health. These vitamins are essential for the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which regulate mood and cognitive function. Adequate levels of B vitamins can help improve memory, concentration, and overall mental clarity. Deficiencies, on the other hand, have been linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

 

Heart Health

Folate, B6, and B12 are vital for maintaining heart health. These vitamins help regulate homocysteine levels in the blood. Elevated homocysteine is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as it can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of blood clots. By helping to keep homocysteine levels in check, B vitamins support heart health and can reduce the risk of heart disease.

 

Immune System Support

Vitamin B6 is particularly important for a healthy immune system. It plays a role in the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Additionally, B vitamins help maintain the health of the skin, mucous membranes, and other tissues, which act as barriers against pathogens.

 

Healthy Hair, Skin, and Nails

People often refer to biotin (B7) as the “beauty vitamin” because of its role in helping maintain healthy hair, skin, and nails. Biotin deficiency can lead to brittle nails, hair loss, and skin rashes. Sufficient B7 can help improve the strength and appearance of these tissues, promoting overall skin health and vitality.

 

Pregnancy and Foetal Development

Folate (B9) is crucial during pregnancy for proper foetal development. It is essential for DNA synthesis and cell growth, making it important for forming the neural tube, which later develops into the brain and spinal cord. Adequate folate intake during pregnancy helps prevent neural tube defects and supports the baby’s overall development.

 

Conclusion

The wide-ranging roles and benefits of vitamin B for the body mean harnessing their power is key to achieving total well-being. B vitamins are indispensable for maintaining optimal health, from energy production to brain function, heart health to immune support, and healthy hair, skin, and nails. Each B vitamin contributes uniquely to various bodily functions, ensuring that our metabolic processes run smoothly, our nervous system operates efficiently, and our cardiovascular system remains robust.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in reducing the risk of certain diseases, enhancing mood and cognitive performance, and supporting cellular health and regeneration. By incorporating adequate amounts of B vitamins through a balanced diet or appropriate supplementation, individuals can significantly boost their overall health, vitality, and quality of life. Understanding and leveraging the benefits of B vitamins can lead to enhanced physical and mental performance, making them an essential component of a comprehensive wellness strategy.

Recommended Product

 

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Healthy Liver, Thriving Life: Vital Tips for Liver Health

A healthy liver is vitally important. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver is labelled the ‘General’ of the body’s ‘Army’ of organs. This is because it carries out so many critical processes for good health.

The liver undertakes hundreds of essential jobs. For example, it detoxes and purifies the blood, converting the toxins into harmless substances. It also facilitates the removal of other toxins from the body. The liver converts the nutrients from food into substances the body can use. It then stores them ready to supply the cells when needed. A healthy liver plays a vital role in the body’s metabolic processes. It breaks down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. It also performs multiple other critical functions needed to keep all the ‘soldiers’ in the body working well by letting them know what to do and where to go.

In short, a happy, healthy liver is vital for a happy, healthy body. On the other hand, a sluggish, overworked, and malfunctioning liver will affect every other organ in the body and overall blood quality. Ensuring the liver has all the support it needs is critical to keeping well and having vibrant energy.

Easy ways to help support a healthy liver

A straightforward way to assist your liver function is to have a cup of warm water with freshly squeezed lemon juice added first thing in the morning. This drink will wake up the liver and help stimulate and flush it out. Then, throughout the day, drink plenty of pure water. The liver needs water to cleanse and purify the blood; dehydration can adversely affect this process.

Certain teas can also provide additional support. For example, peppermint tea helps with digestion and detoxing. Green tea, which is high in antioxidants, can help reduce lipid accumulation.

The herb milk thistle is renowned for general liver support and can be beneficial for inflammation and damage. Whilst it won’t protect against excessive drinking, a few drops of the tincture in a glass of water before and after a ‘party night’ can give added liver protection and may even help with that morning-after feeling.

Boost your glutathione levels

The liver naturally produces glutathione, which is considered the body’s master antioxidant. This antioxidant is so significant that many natural health practitioners now consider glutathione levels to be a better indication of general health than many more popularly used markers. Consequently, foods and supplements that boosts glutathione production can help promote a healthy liver and overall health.

Several studies have shown that curcumin has liver-protecting benefits and can enhance the body’s natural antioxidant system. These benefits, in turn, help increase glutathione levels, thereby contributing to liver detoxification and inhibiting damaging nitrosamine formation.

Some human and animal studies have found that eating sulphur-rich brassica vegetables may increase glutathione levels. Allium vegetables, including garlic, shallots and onions, can also boost the levels. Foods naturally high in glutathione, such as avocados, spinach, pears, and okra, may also be beneficial.

Eating your way to a healthy liver

‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ is an adage that has some roots in truth. Apples are a fruit that the liver loves. The malic acid opens the liver ducts, allowing the liver to flush toxins more efficiently. In addition, pectin helps the digestive system release toxins, thereby reducing the liver’s toxic load.

Washing fruit and vegetables thoroughly and avoiding pesticides and other toxins as much as possible is essential to avoid overloading the liver.

Some of the best foods for a healthy liver include cruciferous vegetables. These include broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. Other foods that support the organ and help improve bile flow include beets, artichokes, and dandelion leaves. Olive oil, although a fat, is a healthy one and has been shown to decrease the levels of fat in the liver.

Carrots contain beta-carotene, which is converted into the powerful antioxidant Vitamin A by the liver, where it is stored and ready to be used to support cell growth, immune function, foetal development, and vision. Ginger can also help repair liver damage, so a carrot and ginger juice would be a good combination for a healthy liver support drink.

Alpha lipoic acid can help support the liver. It has been shown to have a powerful antioxidant effect on fatty liver and induce liver regeneration by inhibiting apoptosis (cell death). Some studies have even shown it to affect liver fibrosis positively.

A good quality broad spectrum multi-vitamin and mineral supplement is also an excellent choice to help give the body, including the liver, the nutrients it needs, especially when there is limited access to fresh vegetables and fruit.

And finally…

A healthy liver will reap benefits from not being overloaded by alcoholic consumption, unhealthy fats, processed foods, and sugars. Plenty of fresh air, exercise, and quality sleep keep glutathione levels high and help the liver sustain a healthy body and mind.

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The Health Benefits of Curcumin – The Golden Spice

The health benefits of curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, are being increasingly recognised today.

For thousands of years, people in India and the Far East have treasured turmeric as a spice and medicinal herb.  Traditionally, people have used it for respiratory conditions, sprains, swellings, liver disorders, and rheumatism.  Topically, people have applied it to infected wounds, ringworm, bruises, and inflammation on the skin or oral mucosa. However, modern science is now researching and confirming many of these therapeutic effects. It seems the Indians were right all along – it really does have healing properties. Furthermore, scientists have identified a bioactive component called curcumin, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Today, it is growing popular as a nutritional supplement. In this article, we’ll take a closer look into the health benefits of curcumin and its many uses.

Curcumin and Inflammation

It is now well accepted acute and chronic inflammation is a major factor in the progression of many diseases, including obesity, type two diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions, as well as some types of cancer. Therefore, finding ways to tackle it has become a significant health priority. Studies show curcumin can help dampen inflammation by inhibiting the activity of various enzymes and signalling molecules which play a role in inflammation. In particular, it acts as a COX-2 inhibitor, helping reduce inflammation and pain. Research has demonstrated that curcumin can match the effectiveness of some powerful anti-inflammatory drugs, and the great news is that it has no side effects.

Curcumin Protects Against Free Radicals

Another major contributor to chronic illness is oxidative stress. It’s also believed to be one of the mechanisms behind ageing caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidant defences. Free radicals are atoms or molecules with one or more unpaired electrons. They are produced in our bodies every minute of the day as by-products of metabolism or created during cellular responses to toxins, inflammatory cytokines or bacterial invasion. They are highly reactive, causing damage to lipids, proteins and DNA around the body. Antioxidants can prevent or delay oxidation reactions by scavenging the free radicals and donating electrons to reduce their reactivity. 

Curcumin is a potent antioxidant which can help neutralise these free radicals. Studies show it may also help reduce their production and increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase. 

Discover The Health Benefits of Curcumin

Brain Health

It is the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have made curcumin a good candidate for brain health. Various protocols for dementia and traumatic brain injury have utilised it. Studies suggest it can help improve memory and cognitive function and even has the potential to reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Studies show it may help delay the degradation of neurons. Under certain circumstances, brain cells can form new connections and multiply and increase in number. One of the main drivers of this process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a type of growth hormone. It is theorised curcumin may help promote the production of this hormone. Conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s disease link to low levels of BDNF.

Arthritic Help

Researchers now recognise that osteoarthritis, once considered purely degenerative, also involves inflammatory aspects with connections to systemic inflammation. However, several studies have shown that one of the most significant health benefits of curcumin is that it can help reduce pain and improve joint function in people with both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. 

Liver Support

Oxidative stress is considered one of the major contributors to liver damage. A variety of things, including alcohol, drugs, viral infections, environmental pollutants and dietary toxins, can cause it. It can result in liver injury, non-alcoholic liver disease, liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Historically, people have used curcumin to support the liver. Studies show it exerts remarkable protective and therapeutic benefits against the effects of oxidative stress-associated liver diseases. Other research has shown that it can reduce fat accumulation in the liver, improve lipid metabolism, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, research suggests it may protect against oxidative stress and help restore normal liver functioning. 

Blood Sugar Balance

Studies have shown that curcumin helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it a valuable supplement for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. It may also improve insulin sensitivity and reduce complications related to diabetes, such as diabetic neuropathy and retinopathy. Don’t forget its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help protect the pancreas and other organs affected by diabetes.

Heart Disease

The health benefits of curcumin also extend to cardiovascular concerns. These include its potential to help lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of blood clots and prevent plaque build-up in the arteries. Some studies have even found it can improve the function of the endothelium, the lining of blood vessels. It is well known endothelial dysfunction is a major driver of heart disease and high blood pressure. 

Cancer Prevention

Some studies have looked at curcumins’ potential role in cancer prevention. Research suggests that it may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even induce apoptosis (cell death) in some cancerous cells. It’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also help reduce the risk of cancer development. 

Choose Curcumin Wisely

It’s worth knowing that curcumin is notoriously poorly absorbed, whether it comes from food or nutritional supplements. Good Health Naturally products contain Meriva Curcumin, the most clinically researched and effective curcumin product on the market. It is cleverly embedded into a lecithin phospholipid, dramatically increasing bioavailability and absorption. Studies show it offers significantly superior absorption when compared to unformulated curcuminoid mixtures. 

Unleash the Health Benefits of Curcumin

The health benefits of curcumin are wide-reaching, and it really does seem to have extraordinary healing properties. Supplementing with curcumin can be a great way to protect the body from all the daily battles against inflammation and oxidative stress.  

 

References

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073929/gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6073929/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27124606/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6163782/

 

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