We often think of fibre only in connection with “keeping regular”—but there’s much more to it that. Fibre has a lot to do with what goes on in the top halves of our bodies as well! A recent study at the University of Kentucky and the Veteran Affairs Medical Center...
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St John’s wort works for mild depression
In Europe, St John’s wort is recognized as an effective antidepressant, while here in North America it is still viewed with a critical eye. This may change, however, as studies continue to prove its worth. In 2001, two studies provided conclusive evidence that St...
Tired and stressed? Rhodiola is here!
Rhodiola, also known as golden or arctic root, has been heavily studied at both Soviet and Scandinavian clinics. This research focused primarily on its application in sports performance. During exercise, rhodiola has been shown to delay fatigue and increase energy. It...
Balance blood sugar with chromium
Chromium is an essential nutrient involved in normal carbohydrate and fat metabolism. It also helps regulate blood sugar, which can improve the glucose/insulin system in people with hypoglycemia, diabetes and other blood sugar disorders. At the Beltsville Human...
Hay Fever Relief: Top natural picks
In these fragrant spring and summer months, the population seems to divide itself into two types of people—those who suffer from hay fever and those who don’t! Most hay fever (allergic rhinitis) is caused by a reaction to ragweed pollen, though other tree, weed and...
Probiotics boost aging immune system
Elderly people are at increased risk of infection due to the age-related decline in immune system function. In a recent study, scientists looked into how supplementing with probiotics might help improve immunity in the elderly. Probiotics, including Lactobacillus...
Nutrition Notes: The Goods on Garlic
Whether you’re a garlic lover or not, you can’t dispute that fact that this “fragrant” little bulb has a lot to offer in the way of health benefits! One of the most widely cited health benefits attributed to garlic is that it can lower blood cholesterol. According to...
Red clover: four benefits for menopause
Cultures around the world use herbs for the natural treatment of menopause. Black cohosh, chaste tree berry (vitex) and red clover are a few of the most common herbs for this purpose. Red clover contains four plant-based estrogens, called phytoestrogens. These bind to...
Curb cholesterol: new research tells how
We all need cholesterol for our bodies to function properly. But some of us produce too much cholesterol, which can increase the risk of heart disease. Though dietary changes are certainly one approach to help lower cholesterol levels, more intervention may be...
Digestive ills eased with peppermint oil
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of the gastrointestinal tract— at least one in five North Americans suffers from it. IBS may be brought on by food intolerance, excessive stress or a sensitive colon, and may result in frequent bouts of constipation,...