Natural Health Solutions Online

05/30/2024

Recent research has shown that the microorganisms living in our guts or gut microbiota, play a surprising role in blood pressure. This connection is a fascinating and may help us understand and treat high blood pressure. The gut microbiota consists of trillions of microorganisms. These microbes are not just passive residents; they actively interact with our bodies in many ways. One way is with our cardiovascular system, heart and blood vessels. Studies have found that changes in the types of bacteria in the gut can affect blood pressure. For example, certain bacteria produce a substance called trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) that can affect blood pressure. When we eat foods like red meat and eggs, some gut bacteria help convert nutrients in these foods into TMAO and has been linked to higher blood pressure and an increased risk of heart disease. Another way the gut microbiota influences blood pressure is through its interaction with the immune system. The bacteria in the gut help regulate the immune system, and the immune system is crucial for maintaining normal blood pressure. When the balance of bacteria in the gut is disturbed—a condition known as dysbiosis—it leads to inflammation, which can raise blood pressure.

Recent animal studies using rats has shown that altering the gut microbiota can lead to changes in blood pressure. When researchers changed the types of bacteria in the guts of these rats, they observed changes in blood pressure. This suggests that manipulating gut bacteria could be a potential way to control blood pressure.

Human studies have also supported these findings. People with high blood pressure often have different compositions of gut bacteria compared to those with normal blood pressure. This has led scientists to explore whether modifying the gut microbiota through diet, probiotics (which are beneficial bacteria), or other means could help manage blood pressure. For example, dietary interventions that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as eating more fiber-rich foods and fermented foods have shown promise in lowering blood pressure. These foods encourage the growth of good bacteria, which can help reduce inflammation and produce substances that positively affect blood pressure. Remember… Fix Your Gut to Fix Your Health‼️™️

04/07/2024

The 2023 comprehensive study “Effect of omega-3 poly unsaturated fatty acid supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis” was conducted to assess the impact of omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) on individuals with osteoarthritis (OA), a condition characterized by joint pain and dysfunction.

Despite mixed results from previous research, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to clarify the effects of n-3 PUFA supplementation on OA symptoms and joint function. The analysis incorporated data from nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs), involving a total of 2,070 OA patients.

The findings revealed that n-3 PUFA supplementation significantly reduced arthritis pain when compared to a placebo. Additionally, an improvement in joint function was observed, showing that n-3 PUFAs can enhance the mobility and functionality of joints in OA patients.

Subgroup analysis, which examined the results across different methods of evaluating arthritis pain and joint function, including the Western Ontario-McMaster University Osteoarthritis Index, showed consistent benefits of n-3 PUFA supplementation. Importantly, the study found no severe treatment-related adverse events, and the overall incidence of side effects was comparable between the n-3 PUFA group and the placebo group.

In conclusion, the study supports the effectiveness of n-3 PUFA supplementation in alleviating pain and improving joint function in patients with OA, offering a potentially valuable treatment option for managing the symptoms of this condition.

03/21/2024

Gut Bacteria, Bifidobacteria and Cows Milk Allergy in Children.

A study published in Allergology International has found an interesting connection between the success of oral immunotherapy for children with cow's milk allergy (IgE) and the types of bacteria in their intestines.

Oral immunotherapy is a treatment that can help children with milk allergies by slowly getting their bodies used to milk. However, it's not without its risks, and only some kids keep their tolerance to milk after stopping the treatment.

In this study, doctors watched over 32 children with cow's milk allergy as they went through 13 months of oral immunotherapy. The first month was in the hospital. Four participants had to stop the treatment early because they had severe allergic reactions. The rest continued the treatment at home and then took a test to see if they could handle milk without any allergic reactions.

Only 7 out of the 28 children, passed this test. The researchers wanted to figure out why only these 7 were successful. They looked at different factors, including what types of bacteria were in the kids' guts. They found that those who had more bifidobacteria in their intestinal flora were more likely to successfully complete the treatment. This suggests that these good bacteria might play a role in helping the body accept milk without having an allergic reaction.

The study's findings are a step towards understanding how gut microbiome can influence the success of treatments for food allergies. The next steps include exploring how these bacteria work and finding ways to make oral immunotherapy more effective, possibly by adding probiotics to the treatment.

03/19/2024

03/19/2024

Metformin is a common medication that doctors prescribe to people with diabetes and pre-diabetes, to help control their blood sugar levels. Some integrated physicians also use it as an anti-aging medication.

However, there's something important that those taking metformin should be aware of. In the longest, largest placebo-controlled randomized trial to date found that people who take metformin for a long time might end up with lower levels of vitamin B12 in their bodies.

Over about 4 years, the study showed that B12 levels dropped by 19% in those taking metformin. This is a concern because vitamin B12 is really important for things like making red blood cells and keeping your nervous system healthy.

The study also found that a substance in the blood called homocysteine went up by 5%. This substance can give doctors clues about your vitamin B12 levels and other related nutrients. Also, homocystine can be destructive when its levels rise too much.

The reason metformin affects vitamin B12 levels has to do with how it interferes with something called intrinsic factor that is part of the normal process your body uses to absorb vitamin B12 from food.

Because of this it is important that if you're taking metformin, especially for a long time, you should have your vitamin B12 and homocystine levels checked regularly.

Sometimes, it can take several years to notice that vitamin B12 levels are dropping, so it's really important to keep an eye on it throughout your treatment. This way, you can stay healthy while managing your blood sugar with metformin or using it as an anti-aging medicine.

01/09/2024

An article from the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research explores the impact of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on patients with osteoarthritis, using a meta-analysis approach, which combines findings from multiple studies to draw broader conclusions.

Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder causing pain and limited range of motion. The study focuses on whether omega-3’s found in fish oil, can benefit individuals dealing with this condition..

The meta-analysis suggests that omega-3 supplementation has a positive effects for those with osteoarthritis. These healthy fats provide relief from pain and stiffness in the joints. While the article doesn't claim a cure, it suggests that including omega-3’s in the diet could be a helpful addition for managing osteoarthritis.

The article “Effect of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta analysis indicates that omega-3 supplementation is a promising avenue for managing symptoms and enhancing the overall well-being of those affected by this common joint condition. The study provides a foundation for further exploration and discussion within the medical community about the potential benefits of incorporating omega-3’s into the treatment plan for osteoarthritis patients.

01/08/2024

Please support your local artists. Sara Rubenstein is a very talented artist and her unique clothing line is very popular at trade shows and on Fire Island, NY. You can check out Sara’s one of a kind designer creations at AllSeeingStudios.com. —Dr. Andrew Linick/Travel & Fitness Editor/Restaurant Critic for Practical Gourmet (tm) Magazine and sister site: Epicurean.com

An Interview of my Daughter Sara; creator of All Seeing Studios™️. https://canvasrebel.com/meet-sara-rubenstein/

01/04/2024

An Interview of my Daughter Sara; creator of All Seeing Studios™️. https://canvasrebel.com/meet-sara-rubenstein/

10/02/2023

This post summarizes the article "The Harmful Effects of Glyphosate (and what you can do about it)" by Ronald Grisanti where he discusses the potential negative impacts of glyphosate and provides suggestions on how to mitigate its effects.

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide found in many commercial w**d killers, and its use has increased significantly in recent years. Grisanti highlights several harmful effects associated with glyphosate exposure.

One major concern is its potential to disrupt the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Glyphosate has been shown to alter the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to digestive issues, immune system dysfunction, and increased susceptibility to various diseases. Furthermore, the article discusses the link between glyphosate and chronic inflammation. Studies have indicated that glyphosate exposure can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, contributing to the development of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

Grisanti also emphasizes the potential carcinogenic properties of glyphosate. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen, raising concerns about its long-term effects on human health. The article highlights studies linking glyphosate exposure to an increased risk of certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

To mitigate the harmful effects of glyphosate, Grisanti suggests several strategies. First, he recommends choosing organic produce whenever possible, as organic farming practices prohibit the use of glyphosate. Additionally, he advises incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into the diet to support a healthy gut microbiome. The article also encourages detoxification methods to eliminate glyphosate from the body. This includes consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, and supporting liver function through the use of specific supplements.

10/02/2023

This post summarizes the article "The Harmful Effects of Glyphosate (and what you can do about it)" by Ronald Grisanti where he discusses the potential negative impacts of glyphosate and provides suggestions on how to mitigate its effects.

Glyphosate is a widely used herbicide found in many commercial w**d killers, and its use has increased significantly in recent years. Grisanti highlights several harmful effects associated with glyphosate exposure.

One major concern is its potential to disrupt the gut microbiome, which plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Glyphosate has been shown to alter the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, leading to digestive issues, immune system dysfunction, and increased susceptibility to various diseases. Furthermore, the article discusses the link between glyphosate and chronic inflammation. Studies have indicated that glyphosate exposure can trigger an inflammatory response in the body, contributing to the development of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders.

Grisanti also emphasizes the potential carcinogenic properties of glyphosate. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified glyphosate as a probable human carcinogen, raising concerns about its long-term effects on human health. The article highlights studies linking glyphosate exposure to an increased risk of certain cancers, including non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

To mitigate the harmful effects of glyphosate, Grisanti suggests several strategies. First, he recommends choosing organic produce whenever possible, as organic farming practices prohibit the use of glyphosate. Additionally, he advises incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into the diet to support a healthy gut microbiome. The article also encourages detoxification methods to eliminate glyphosate from the body. This includes consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries and leafy greens, and supporting liver function through the use of specific supplements.

In conclusion, Ronald Grisanti's article sheds light on the harmful effects of glyphosate and provides practical recommendations for minimizing exposure and mitigating its impact. Clinicians should be aware of these potential risks and educate their patients on the importance of making informed choices regarding glyphosate exposure.