Herbs and Supplements
Supplement Watch: Acetyl-L-carnitine
March 1st, 2009Walk out of the grocery store and can’t find your car? Left your keys in the front door—again? Age-related forgetfulness can be maddening, so you’ll want to write this one down: acetyl-L-carnitine. Research shows this amino acid can boost brainpower and memory.
By Wendy McMillan65 Percent: Osteoarthritis
January 1st, 2009The amount of obese Americans who will develop osteoarthritis of the knee. This painful condition occurs when two bones rub against each other in the joint once the cushiony cartilage between them wears down, causing inflammation; being overweight can speed this process. Think you’re safe if you’re fit and trim? Not so fast—35 percent of you will develop achy knees too.
By Nicole DuncanToxic Herbs?
January 1st, 2009A recent study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association found heavy metals, including mercury, arsenic, and lead, in some ayurvedic herbs. The study tested two types of ayurvedic medicines—herbal only and rasa shastra. “Rasa shastra is an ancient science that uses metals and minerals in combination with herbs.
By Lindsay WilsonIt's Easy Being Green
December 1st, 2008Before you take that mid-afternoon java break, remember this: Feeling sluggish may be your body’s way of telling you your pH balance is off. Too much sugar, fat, and protein can make you overly acidic. When that happens, your body pulls calcium from your bones in an effort to correct the imbalance.
By Nicole SprinkleSeeds of Health
December 1st, 2008Seeds contain nearly everything they need to start a new life: the embryo of a plant, the nutrients to sustain it, and a coat of armor to protect it. Small wonder then that they can add significant nutritional bang for the bite.
These pods of new life can restore vitality to yours.By Lindsey GallowayFeed Your Flora
November 1st, 2008Popping probiotics and still having digestive problems? Here’s a novel solution: Gobble a handful of almonds. The Institute of Food Research recently reported that almonds act as prebiotics that function as food for probiotics—the good bacteria that restore a healthy balance of gut flora.
By Pamela BondThe Beauty Bar: Coenzyme Q10
October 1st, 2008Your body naturally produces a compound known as coenzyme Q10— aka Co-Q10, or ubiquinone. This antioxidant darling of the supplement world helps cells regenerate and protects them against damage that could lead to premature aging, heart disease, or even cancer.
Natural Pain Relief
September 1st, 2008Pharmaceutical painkillers may provide temporary relief, but these natural alternatives can work just as well—minus the side effects.
By Danielle BraffSpice for the Spirits
September 1st, 2008Frankincense has infused houses of worship for centuries with its heavenly aroma, so it’s not all that surprising to learn new research has proven the scent can, indeed, raise your spirits.
By Barbra AnninoBeat Golden-Year Blues
September 1st, 2008In the last 20 years, the average life expectancy has increased 12 percent, but for our parents and grandparents living in nursing homes, a longer life may not mean a happier one. According to a recent study, one-third of nursing-home residents (median age of 82) suffer from depression. The good news: The fix may be as simple as supplementing with selenium.
By Kristin Bjornsen
