Pycnogenol, an antioxidant derived from the bark of pine trees, is reputed to help protect skin cells from the damage of UV rays as well as support collagen and elastin production in the skin. Vitamin E, both used internally and topically, is believed to help heal...
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B-vitamins critical for heart health
With the buzz about B-vitamins, most people now know that they are essential for stress-management and disease prevention—especially heart disease. Vitamin B-6, B-12 and folic acid help convert the amino acid homocysteine into harmless byproducts. Without sufficient...
Valerian helps in 80% of insomnia cases
Nearly one-third of all Canadians suffers from some type of sleep problem, so it’s no surprise that the herb valerian has enjoyed growing popularity for its sleep-inducing and anti-anxiety properties. Valerian works much the same as a mild sedative, binding weakly to...
Fish oil fights asthma: two new studies
Asthma is a bronchial disease that hits younger Canadians hard, affecting 13% of all children aged 5 to 19. Though asthma has no cure, its symptoms—wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath—can be managed with medication and nutrition. According to many recent...
Weight loss options that work!
Let’s face it—losing weight is not easy. That’s especially true for markedly obese people. Successful, healthy weight loss requires that lifestyle, exercise, attitude and dietary choices be in just the right balance. Yet the equation underlying these choices is quite...
Activated charcoal may be a life saver
Activated charcoal is used to remedy mild digestive disturbances, especially intestinal gas and diarrhea. A recent study finds it can also be a very effective poison antidote for children and may help prevent a trip to the hospital. Activated charcoal binds to many...
Working out? Watch your nutrient levels
Athletes often hear that fluids, carbohydrates and potassium are important to help recovery after vigorous exercise. But what about other vitamins, minerals and antioxidants? Researchers at the University of Aberdeen Medical School in the UK reviewed studies on the...
Good iron intake can banish fatigue
Many women are plagued with constant fatigue, sluggishness and “brain fog.” Thyroid problems, insomnia or menopause are some possible causes, though iron deficiency may also be at the root of these symptoms. Iron is the mineral used by the body to transport oxygen to...
Women: boost folic acid if you drink
For women who consume even a moderate amount of alcohol, studies indicate they should make sure to get the recommended dietary allowance of folic acid so as not to increase their risk of breast cancer. Researchers believe that alcohol, even as little as a glass or two...
Hawthorn improves heart condition
Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a disease where the heart is weakened and can no longer pump enough blood to support the body’s needs. When less blood is pumped, fluid becomes forced into the lungs and other tissues causing congestion and edema. CHF results in...