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5 of the Best Ways to Improve Your Gut Health!
Perhaps you’ve heard of probiotics and have wondered about their health benefits. If you aren’t taking probiotics, here are some essential facts you need to know about these powerful microorganisms and their role in improving your gut health. What Are Probiotics? The word probiotic comes from Latin: pro means “support” and biotic means “life.” The World Health Organization defines a probiotic as any living microorganism that has a health benefit¹ when ingested. Scientists have discovered that the bacteria living in our gut, collectively called the “microbiome,” offer a broad spectrum of previously unknown wellness benefits including a brighter mood and heightened immunity. Although supplementing with probiotics frequently met with skepticism in the past, research has demonstrated that healthy gut bugs help support many processes in the body, including those typically thought to be connected to your brain,² as well as your mood and stress levels. So how can you improve your gut health? Protect Your Good Bugs Did you know that your intestines hold trillions of bacteria that contribute to your daily health? Our gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which contains about 3-4 pounds of bacteria, houses a diverse population of friendly bacteria that are symbiotic with us – they support our fitness and welfare as we give them food and shelter. Our bodies are highly sophisticated ecosystems, which are made up of at least 1,000 different species of bacteria that live in our intestinal system. Some are beneficial and some aren’t. The beneficial bacteria help regulate everything in our ecosystem – from supporting our digestion to programming the nervous and immune systems. When you don’t have enough of these friendly bacteria, you can have digestive problems, difficulty managing stress, irritability, and other negative behaviors. To remain in top form, the relationship of good bugs to bad bugs in your microbiome needs to be positively skewed. This ratio may have a direct correlation to your gut health and overall well-being. You're more likely to be healthy and happy when the beneficial microorganisms in your gut outnumber the harmful ones. When the balance is tipped the other way, all sorts of physical and mental problems can arise. Beware of Microbiome Imbalance Imbalance of the gut microbiome – too many bad bacteria in the gut – has been linked to a wide range of mental and physical challenges. Keeping your gut in proper balance is essential to your overall health. Eating high-fiber foods, avoiding sugars and processed starches, having the right balance of omega-3 fatty acids (an Omega-3 Index higher than 8%), staying well-hydrated, and increasing your intake of healthy fermented foods all can help keep your gut bacteria in healthy balance. Experiencing digestive issues is a sure-fire way to know if you have an unbalanced gut. Many people end up taking antacids, gas medicines, or anti-diarrheal medications, but these don’t get to the root cause of the problem, which is an imbalanced microbiome. If you’re struggling with any of the following on a consistent basis, you may benefit from a well-formulated probiotic supplement: Gas Irregular bowel movements Bloating Excessively soft stools Unusual burping or excessive fullness after eating Cramping anywhere along your intestinal tract Probiotics can help improve your health in numerous ways. Here are just a few… 5 Ways to Support Your Gut with Probiotics Improve the Integrity of Your Gut Lining A healthy intestine has a very tight lining or seal that works to exclude everything but the smallest fully digested food substances from getting across the intestinal wall and into the blood vessels or other surrounding tissues. When this intestinal seal is not sufficiently tight, allergenic molecules of poorly digested food, bacteria, viruses, and waste products can leak out of the intestinal lining and spread throughout the body. Healthy bacteria that live in the gut produce many substances that help maintain the intestinal seal. Supplementing with probiotics that directly or indirectly support a healthy microbiome helps ensure the integrity of the intestinal seal and promotes many other positive intestinal functions. Keep Your Microbiome Healthy A healthy microbiome can be thrown off balance by numerous factors, including antibiotics,³ pesticides/herbicides in foods, food additives, artificial sweeteners, or simply by eating a Standard American Diet (SAD) – one that’s high in calories, low in fiber,⁴ and lacks sufficient vitamins and other essential nutrients. Stress also kills friendly bacteria in our microbiome. Support Positive Mood with a Healthy Gut In our fast-paced world, having a balanced gut microbiome can have tremendous benefits for your body and brain. The gut is filled with nerve networks that provide valuable input to the brain. Maintaining and restoring health in the GI tract is crucial to optimizing your protection against the possible negative consequences of allergenic food substances that can damage your blood vessels, trigger immune dysfunction, and deteriorate your overall health and well-being. Increasingly, clinical studies are finding that well-designed probiotic supplements promote a positive mood⁵ and help counter stressful life events. Eat a Probiotic-Rich Diet Even if you’ve tried incorporating probiotics into your diet, it’s likely that you aren’t getting enough of them daily. So where can you get quality probiotics? One way is with the foods you eat. Here are the top 8 probiotic-rich foods: Kimchi Fresh Sauerkraut Sour Pickles Miso Tempeh Kombucha Kefir Yogurt Take a Probiotic Supplement Another way to help support gut flora is to take a probiotic supplement. BrainMD’s ProBrainBiotics is the first probiotic supplement proven to benefit both intestinal and brain function.* This supplement has identical probiotic strains, at the same daily intake levels, that were put through three clinical trials and found to benefit intestinal function, mood, and coping with stressful experiences.* ProBrainBiotics can help with: Digestion – promotes healthy digestion* Focus – improves concentration and attention* Mood – supports positive mood and emotional balance* Immunity – provides antioxidant support and nutritional immune system boosters* How To Improve Your Gut Health Take one or two capsules daily with a meal, or as recommended by a physician. From the published trials, one capsule should be sufficient for most people, but two capsules will likely give you additional benefit. Remember, if you take good care of your bacterial guests they will take care of you. Use ProBrainBiotics, along with probiotic-rich foods, to help enhance your immune system every day!* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about ProBrainBiotics and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Mack, D. R. (2005). Probiotics: Mixed messages. Canadian Family Physician, 51(11), 1455–1457. https://doi.org/10.46747/cfp.5111455 (PMCID: PMC1479485, PMID: 16353824) 2. Appleton, J. (2018). The gut-brain axis: Influence of microbiota on mood and mental health. Integrative Medicine (Encinitas), 17(4), 28–32. https://doi.org/10.7547/108726 (PMCID: PMC6469458, PMID: 31043907) 3. Yoon, M. Y., & Yoon, S. S. (2017). Disruption of the gut ecosystem by antibiotics. Yonsei Medical Journal, 59(1), 4–12. https://doi.org/10.3349/ymj.2018.59.1.4 (PMCID: PMC5725362, PMID: 29214770) 4. Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Dietary fiber: Essential for a healthy diet. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved [12/30/2024], from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/dietary-fiber/art-20043983 5. Bistas, K. G., & Tabet, J. P. (2023). The benefits of prebiotics and probiotics on mental health. Cureus, 15(8), e43217. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.43217 (PMCID: PMC10490379, PMID: 37692658)
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10 of The Best Ways to Practice Gratitude
With the holidays rapidly approaching, it’s time to focus on family and friends. It’s also the season to celebrate the many good things that have taken place in your life over the past year. Even if you’ve experienced disappointments or setbacks, there are still plenty of things to be grateful for in life. Concentrating on the positive can have a huge impact on your outlook and success. The Power of Gratitude Did you know that practicing gratitude actually makes your brain work better? It causes significant changes to occur in your brain that can enhance function and make you feel better. Research¹ suggests that focusing on gratitude helps to calm the deep limbic areas and enhance the other judgment centers of your brain. People who express gratitude on a regular basis are healthier, more optimistic, make better progress toward their goals, have a greater sense of well-being, and are more helpful to others. Living in a state of gratitude is more than just thanking someone for opening the door for you – although that’s a good thing to do. It’s about having an attitude of gratitude regardless of the circumstances. Practicing these 10 habits can help you remain grateful during the holidays and throughout the year: 10 Ways to Practice Gratitude Every Day 1. Compliment Others Find something nice to say to family, friends, coworkers or even a stranger in an elevator or at the grocery store. Complimenting someone on their outfit, hair or backpack pin will make them feel better about themselves. Kind words can create a positive feedback loop; the person giving the compliment often ends up feeling just as uplifted as the receiver of the compliment. Getting in the habit of complimenting others is a great way to nurture existing friendships while cultivating new ones. 2. Be Mindful In our “take care of number one” society, our focus tends to be on ourselves rather than on others. Try to be more mindful of those around you. If they have a need, try to meet it. Force yourself to stay attentive in every conversation. Be an active listener and make eye contact with the person talking to you. Chances are, they’ll appreciate you taking the time to really listen to them, which in turn will make you grateful for being able to participate in a meaningful conversation. 3. Pitch In Are you the type person who jumps up after a meal and helps clear everyone’s plate off the table? Taking the initiative in running errands or tackling the hard jobs can lighten someone else’s load, which will make them thankful for the support. Pitching in can also make you feel good about yourself, so actively look for ways that you can help other people with their chores or challenges…without burning yourself out, of course. 4. Send Notes Many people are good at sending birthday or holiday cards. Some are even good at giving thank you cards to express gratitude for a favor, gift or kind word. Writing notes to recognize the little things is a great way to show appreciation to those who matter most in your life. Make sure to handwrite your note to give it that personal touch. 5. Pay It Forward Has a stranger ever done something nice for you? Did those good feelings motivate you to help someone else? When you’re in line at a restaurant or coffee shop, purchase a meal or beverage for the next person in line. This act of generosity will create gratitude in that person and hopefully inspire them to pay it forward to someone else. Giving to someone who can’t repay you can give you a tremendous feeling of satisfaction. 6. Say Sorry Perhaps there’s something in our DNA that makes us want to be right all the time, but many people have a hard time saying sorry. Even if you feel like you’ve been wronged, say you’re sorry to the other person. Offering an apology can help build a bridge in a relationship, and the other person might be grateful that you took the initiative in trying to resolve the disagreement. Since compromise is part of life, it’s better to apologize than hold a grudge. 7. Volunteer If you find a few spare hours in your schedule, consider volunteering at an animal shelter, food bank or mission. Serving others can be personally gratifying and can help alleviate stress while increasing health and happiness. Also, assisting others can make you feel more grateful for the good things in your life and give you a different perspective on the struggles that many people face each day. 8. Count Your Blessings One of the best ways to stay in a grateful state of mind is to take a few moments to write down the positive things that you’ve experienced that day. Keeping a “Blessings Journal” can be an enjoyable hobby as well as a great way to unwind after a stressful day. If you need regular reminders to write in your journal, there are many gratitude apps you can download on your phone. Perhaps the best part of journaling comes when you look back at earlier entries and see the many blessings you’ve enjoyed in your life. Jot down three things that you’re grateful for every day. Then experience the bliss that gratitude can bring. 9. Be Generous Although many people give to charities during the holidays, it’s important to remain generous year-round. Giving to others in need can produce feelings of fulfillment and happiness.² In addition to donating money, be generous with your time. Spending time with the sick or elderly can fill them with gratitude and a sense of hope. A small investment of your time can make a big difference in someone else’s life. 10. Remember the Basics In the busyness of life, it’s easy to slack on pleasantries. Always remember to say thank you to someone who has served or helped you. Many people feel like they work a thankless job, so hearing someone thank them can make their day. Also, remember to smile. Smiles can be contagious, so do your part in spreading the happiness wherever you go. Taking these simple steps can help you feel the power of gratitude during the holidays, and every day. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Kyeong, S., Kim, J., Kim, D. J., Kim, H. E., & Kim, J.-J. (2017). Effects of gratitude meditation on neural network functional connectivity and brain-heart coupling. Scientific Reports, 7, Article 5058. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-05451-6 2. Blanding, M. (2023, August 15). Why giving to others makes us happy: Giving to others is also good for the giver. Working Knowledge. Harvard Business School. https://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/why-giving-to-others-makes-us-happy
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Best Self-Care Tips to Help You Commit to Your Goals
Changing seasons of life can produce a variety of reactions and emotions, ranging from excitement to worry. Those in the latter camp may be struggling with how to get back into the flow of everyday life after a transition. Others, who readily embrace change, may be eager to establish a new routine. No matter where you fall on the spectrum, it’s normal to feel a certain amount of uncertainty or uneasiness as you enter a new phase of life. Here’s how people with different personalities might react to their new normal: 2 Main Types of Temperaments Extroverts Extroversion is usually linked to higher coping skills, which can translate to better resilience. Extroverts typically thrive in social situations and savor personal interactions with others. However, their busy lifestyle may prevent them from slowing down long enough to enjoy some of life's simple moments. Introverts Introverts may need time to recharge their batteries after socializing with others. This doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike people, just that they need their space. The challenge for many introverts is to gradually populate their social calendar with meaningful experiences without sacrificing the alone time they cherish. Regardless or your personality type, adapting to a new routine or phase of life can present many challenges, as well as opportunities. Here are several ways to maintain your physical and mental well-being in the midst of life's changes... 10 Ways to Get Back Into the Swing of Things 1. Start on a Positive Note An effective routine is to begin each morning by saying something like, “Today is going to be a great day!” Such a simple sentence can cause your brain to look for ways to fulfill that affirmative statement. It also establishes a healthy thought pattern you can continue throughout the day. Focusing on positive thoughts helps your brain discover ways to turn them into reality. This simple strategy can make a significant difference in your life, so do it first thing in the morning to set the tone for your entire day. 2. Change Your Perspective Perhaps something has recently disrupted your daily schedule, creating a variety of lifestyle changes that have impacted your focus, sleep, and mood. Or maybe the unique stresses of these uncertain times have impaired your ability to cope, making you feel completely overwhelmed much of the time. You can’t stop what’s happening around the globe, but you can change what’s going on inside your brain to prevent fear from dominating your life. Training your brain to think about the things you can control, and not about the things you can’t, can help relieve anxiousness and provide a more optimistic outlook. 3. Just Breathe Whenever you feel worried, frustrated, angry, or tense, do a deep breathing exercise. Take a deep breath, hold it for one to two seconds, and then slowly exhale for about five seconds. Do this 10 times and you should start to feel relaxed. It sounds so simple, but breathing is essential to life. When you slow down and become more efficient with your breathing, you may find that your problems aren’t as dire as you thought they were before you started the exercise. 4. Continue Self-Care Continue to practice self-care with brain healthy habits such as exercising, eating right, meditating, getting good sleep, and challenging negative thoughts. Taking care of yourself is one of the best things you can do to get back into the swing with a new routine. Make time for yourself every day. Taking breaks for meditation and relaxation provides benefits for both your physical and mental health. Spending just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may give you a fresh perspective. Clearing your mind and slowing your breathing can help restore inner calm. Repeating a simple Loving Kindness Meditation like, “May I be safe and secure,” can increase positive thoughts and decrease negative ones. 5. Practice Mindfulness One of the best ways to achieve a state of calm is with mindfulness. Yoga, tai chi, and other mindfulness practices can help reduce anxious and depressive thoughts and increase focus. Some studies¹ show that daily mindfulness can help improve your brain. 6. Smile and Laugh The simple act of smiling can help trigger the release of the feel-good transmitters dopamine and serotonin. Smiling may trick your brain into believing you’re happy, which can produce feelings of happiness. Laughter can help relieve stress, especially in difficult situations. Humor can lighten the mood and make things feel a little less tense. In fact, having a good laugh can give you a much-needed mood boost. 7. Outdoor Activities Engaging in outdoor activities is important for people of all ages, and is a great way to get back into the swing without the added stress of being in a crowd of people. Exercise can help boost blood flow to deliver oxygen and positive nutrients to the brain and other organs. Physical activity also has been associated with improved mood² and a more optimistic outlook on life. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or horseback riding, being outdoors can have an overall positive effect on vitality. Walking can help clear your mind, improve your mood, and burn some calories all at the same time. 8. Stay Connected Social connections are incredibly important to your overall well-being. Focusing your time and energy on positive people can have a dramatic impact on your everyday life and longevity. Set up a lunch date with a friend and eat your meal outside if the weather is nice. Having a one-on-one conversation with a friend or family member is a great way to get back into the swing of things socially. 9. Pamper Yourself Getting a massage can do more than just improve your physical function. Clinical studies indicate that a massage is beneficial for improving mood and coping with stress.³ Massages may help to reduce the stress hormone cortisol and increase the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin. 10. Go Slow It’s important not to overdo it as you get back into the swing of things. Establishing a new routine can be stressful for you and everyone in your family. It’s recommended to take things one step at a time. Gradually add activities or social events back into your schedule. If you begin to feel overwhelmed, remove activities from your calendar until you, and your family, find the sweet spot. We hope these self-care and stress-reducing techniques help you – and your friends and family – get back in the swing so you can live your best life. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Keng, S.-L., Smoski, M. J., & Robins, C. J. (2011). Effects of mindfulness on psychological health: A review of empirical studies. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(6), 1041–1056. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2011.04.006 2. Mahindru, A., Patil, P., & Agrawal, V. (2023). Role of physical activity on mental health and well-being: A review. Cureus, 15(1), e33475. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.33475 3. Meier, M., Unternaehrer, E., Dimitroff, S. J., Benz, A. B. E., Bentele, U. U., Schorpp, S. M., Wenzel, M., & Pruessner, J. C. (2020). Standardized massage interventions as protocols for the induction of psychophysiological relaxation in the laboratory: A block randomized, controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 14774. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-71173-w
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This Is How to Choose a Multivitamin That's Right For You
Are you taking a multivitamin daily? If not, perhaps you’re unsure about the health benefits of multivitamins. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed and don't know how to choose a multivitamin from the veritable sea of supplements that exist in the marketplace today. So how can you really know if you’re getting a high-quality supplement or just a fancy label with cheap ingredients? Here are five criteria you’ll want to look for and how to choose a multivitamin that's right for you: 5 Things You Need to Know About Multivitamins 1. Absorption The digestive system converts the vitamins and nutrients from your food and supplements into tiny, molecule-sized dispersions, which then must be absorbed across your gut lining into the blood. This absorption process can be affected by many factors. For example, sugar interferes with the absorption of vitamin C. Alcohol and many medications also interfere with nutrient absorption.¹ Certain ingredients in supplements themselves (such as magnesium oxide) are known to be poorly absorbed, yet are used simply because they’re cheaper or take up less space in a tablet or capsule. 2. Formulation Just because a product has a certain ingredient in it doesn’t mean there’s enough of that ingredient in each daily serving to benefit people. A dirty little secret of the dietary supplement industry is that many products have less-than-proven amounts of ingredients – especially when those ingredients are expensive – to make it seem like the consumer is getting more for their money than with a competing product. Some in the industry call this adding in “Fairy Dust.” Effective dietary supplements provide safe and clinically proven ingredients in daily doses that have a reasonable probability of creating benefits for those who take them. 3. Quantity The number of ingredients in dietary supplements widely varies, which is especially true of multiple vitamins. Some leading supplement companies take a minimalist approach, claiming that less is more. At BrainMD, we believe that more is more. Not only are we concerned with the number of ingredients, but also the quality of those ingredients. 4. Quality Quality ingredients are those that are most efficiently utilized by the body. Many supplements have ingredients that are not utilized for any health function, such as titanium dioxide, which is frequently added to make tablets or capsules white. Others have artificial dyes for coloring, or artificial flavors, many of which may not be safe to consume long-term. Some supplements, including many being marketed to children, have substantial amounts of sugar added. Many supplements containing minerals have revealed lead contamination when tested.² 5. Testing Testing is most effectively done on the raw material ingredients before they enter the chain of production. But in-process testing is also necessary to ensure the manufacturer has effective control over the manufacturing process. The finished product must also be tested to safeguard the integrity of the product. Many companies cut corners, so make sure your supplement has gone through identity and potency verification, heavy metal testing, and microbial testing. Bottom line: always conduct thorough research on dietary supplements before adding them to your daily regimen. BrainMD’s supplements routinely meet or exceed all the above standards. We’re proud to offer an ultra-pure, high-quality multivitamin…NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin. NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin combines more than 50 nutrients and plant extracts in their most active forms to give you whole body-mind nutrition in a way that drugstore multivitamins cannot do.* It contains three of Dr. Amen’s proprietary nutrient blends: The Brain Boosting Blend of clinically researched brain health nutrients.* The Fruit and Vegetable Blend with antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetable powders (no sugar added).* The Digestive Enzyme Blend to support the body’s digestive enzymes. NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin delivers health and wellness in 5 key ways: Nourishes your body’s cells, tissues and organs – NeuroVite’s wide range of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients provide your cells with the key nutrients they need.* Promotes high-level brain functioning – NeuroVite’s uniquely diverse array of nutrients help protect, energize, and renew your intensely active brain cells.* Supports the health of all the body’s major organ systems – PS (phosphatidylserine) for the brain, lutein, and zeaxanthin for the eyes (and brain), resveratrol and hesperidin for the heart and circulation, and vitamin A for the immune system.* Protects against free radical damage – with an array of antioxidants, such as vitamin C, d-alpha vitamin E, mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols (7 other vitamin Es), CoQ10, alpha-lipoic acid, and the minerals zinc, selenium, and manganese.* Easily absorbed and tolerated – due to the careful selection of its ingredients.* NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin was formulated to feed our trillions of cells with the vitamins, minerals and conditionally essential nutrients they need to keep the body alive.* The current research on brain and body nutrition demonstrates that everyone can benefit from taking a multiple vitamin-mineral supplement that’s naturally derived, science-based, brain directed, and made with integrity. For all the above, take NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin daily.* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin and our full list of supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Butts, M., Sundaram, V. L., Murughiyan, U., Borthakur, A., & Singh, S. (2023). The influence of alcohol consumption on intestinal nutrient absorption: A comprehensive review. Nutrients, 15(7), 1571. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15071571 2. Buettner, C., Mukamal, K. J., Gardiner, P., Davis, R. B., Phillips, R. S., & Mittleman, M. A. (2009). Herbal supplement use and blood lead levels of United States adults. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 24(11), 1175–1182. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-009-1050-5
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4 of the Best Ways to Relieve Holiday Stress
For many of us, the holiday season represents a much-anticipated, joyous time of the year. But for others, it’s a hectic and stressful period that’s become synonymous with exhaustion, overeating, accruing debt, and family drama. Just hearing the word “holiday” can create stress and feelings of anxiousness for some people. In fact, a survey by Consumer Reports found that 90 percent¹ of Americans find at least one thing stressful about the holiday season. However, the holidays don’t have to be something you dread. With practical planning and brain-directed supplement support, you can successfully navigate the holidays with happiness and good cheer. Taking these four steps can help reduce the stress of the holiday season: 4 Simple Ways to Relieve Holiday Stress Be Grateful Did you know that practicing gratitude can make your brain work better? Research² has demonstrated that people who express gratitude on a regular basis are healthier, more optimistic, make more progress toward their goals and have a greater sense of well-being. Experience the joy that gratitude can bring this holiday season. Delegate While You Celebrate You don’t have to do everything yourself—you can tackle your “to do” list with others. Spending time with friends and family while you share tasks, like preparing the holiday meal, shopping, cleaning and decorating, can be an enjoyable time of bonding. You don’t have to be the holiday hero. Just Say No The holidays can make people feel out of control and at the mercy of traditions or expectations. But you can take control of the holidays by refusing to let them control you. Say “no” to events and activities that aren’t making you happy or are causing holiday stress. Get Calming Support One of the best ways to relieve holiday stress is to take BrainMD’s Everyday Stress Relief, the perfect stress support supplement for daily living. Everyday Stress Relief Everyday Stress Relief, which contains a combination of magnesium, Relora®, holy basil, taurine, and l-theanine, is designed to: Promote calmness without drowsiness* Maintain a positive mood with sharp mental focus* Manage healthy stress hormone levels* Support your brain and adrenals when dealing with stress* Enhance your energy, endurance and vigor* Relieve Holiday Stress...Naturally Keeping up with a busy schedule can leave you feeling stressed out and exhausted, especially during the holidays. As a premier stress-reducing supplement, Everyday Stress Relief harnesses the power of five natural ingredients to soothe your frazzled nerves so you can meet the stresses of the season head-on.* Everyday Stress Relief has a 100% satisfaction, money-back guarantee. You have nothing to lose except your stress. Try Everyday Stress Relief today! The BrainMD team wishes you and yours a safe, healthy, and happy Holiday Season! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Everyday Stress Relief and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Consumer Reports. (2011, November 29). Americans' top holiday dreads—being nice makes the list. Consumer Reports. https://www.consumerreports.org 2. Fekete, E. M., & Deichert, N. T. (2022). A brief gratitude writing intervention decreased stress and negative affect during the COVID-19 pandemic. Journal of Happiness Studies, 23(6), 2427–2448. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10902-022-00505-6
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3 of the Best Tips for Healthy Baking at Home
Baking can be a great way to provide delicious foods for your friends and family. It also can be a fun hobby. Why Bake? While some don’t bake during the warmer months (to avoid overheating their home), many deal with the added heat produced by their oven and bake year-round. Others only bake for special occasions, such as a birthday or holiday. Whatever the reason or occasion, many people derive satisfaction from baking, especially when it’s for the ones they love. It’s common to experience positive feelings when baking. Indeed, there’s a whole host of benefits to consider since baking can… [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class="" help relieve stress have a positive effect on mental health¹ encourage creativity by adjusting recipes/experimenting with ingredients help improve concentration² be a sensory experience help heat a home during cold winter months provide a sense of accomplishment be an act of kindness to others help you feel good about yourself be fun for everyone and requires no special skills bring back special memories from childhood be a form of mindfulness encourage socialization when friends and family pitch in be a cause of celebration during special seasons/occasions [/wc_box] And the list goes on and on! But while baking is generally viewed as a positive activity, did you know there are both positive and negative motivations for baking? Baking for the Right Reasons At the top of this list is baking for family and friends. You’ve probably heard the expression “made with love.” Though actually tasting the love in food is a tad metaphysical, one can probably taste the attention to detail and perfect balance of ingredients in the preparation of the food. Plus, there’s probably a psychological effect to eating food prepared by a loved one. Other positive reasons for baking (many of which are listed above) include its ability to help relieve the stresses of the day and allow you to be in the moment. Baking helps sharpen focus and concentration since recipes require specific measurements of ingredients to be combined in a specific order at a specific time. Remembering to buy all the ingredients necessary to start baking and keeping track of all the different steps in a recipe can help strengthen the memory. Baking also can be an altruistic expression. Whether making cookies for a bake sale or taking some baked goods over to a new neighbor, baking can be a great way to show others how much you care. In the end, many people bake simply because they enjoy it. Baking for the Wrong Reasons The opposite of baking with love is baking out of anger. Some take out their frustrations on pots and pans or when mixing ingredients. Although it may feel therapeutic in the moment, baking in anger may fill your home with an air of tension. Plus, recipes might not turn out right if you rush the process. Showing off your culinary skills isn’t a proper reason to bake. Nor is baking to seek the praise of others, curry favor with others, or compete with others to show them up. When the scale tips from selfless baking to selfish baking, there’s a problem. Some use baking as an excuse to stay busy or to avoid making an important or uncomfortable decision. This has been referred to as “procrastibaking.” The Urban Dictionary defines procrastibaking as “the practice of baking something in order to put off doing something else you need to do.” Even though baking cookies or muffins for a local family in need or sick neighbor can be a good deed, whatever you’re avoiding will still be there after you’ve cleaned up the kitchen. With the appropriate motivations for baking identified, here are some tips for how to use healthier ingredients when baking… 3 of the Best Tips for Healthy Baking at Home 1. Ditch the Butter Butter is high in saturated fat. The American Heart Association advises that saturated fat should make up only 5 to 6% of your daily caloric intake. To avoid the potentially harmful effects of baking with butter, swap butter for olive oil or avocado oil. These healthier oils work well in most baking recipes. Though coconut oil is high in saturated fat, it might support weight loss, improve brain function, and help regulate cholesterol. Coconut oil offers a healthier option to butter for vegans. 2. Pitch the White Flour Stripped of the bran and germ of the wheat kernel, white flour loses most of its fiber and nutrients during the refining process. Also, white flour can spike blood sugar levels. An excess of white flour in the diet has been linked to a host of health problems, including weight gain, heart health issues, poor cognition, low mood, and increased cravings. One of the healthiest decisions you can make for yourself and your family is to pitch white flour. The good news is there are alternative flours available, which offer different tastes and textures – and better nutrition. It’s recommended that you substitute the white flour in your baking recipes with oat flour or coconut flour. 3. Switch the Sugar Table sugar is devoid of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Having too much sugar in your diet is linked to an unhealthy inflammatory response in the body, unhealthy blood sugar and blood pressure levels, weight gain, and liver and heart health issues. One simple way to make your baked goods healthier is to use less sugar than what the recipe calls for. Also, you can take it a step farther by switching white sugar for an unrefined sweetener. Unrefined sugars are generally lower on the glycemic index scale – which means they won’t spike your blood sugar like table sugar does. Among the most popular unrefined sugars are pure maple syrup, coconut sugar, honey, unsulphered molasses, brown rice syrup, date sugar, and fruit. Overripe bananas, applesauce, and dates also are healthy sweetener options. To make muffins healthier, use these fruits or combine them with a small amount of unrefined sugar. You can experiment with the amount of sweetness, but less sugar is always better. Bake Away Baking can be a fun pastime and a great way to show your love, compassion, and appreciation for others. Although some bake for the wrong reasons, many bake for the right reasons and enjoy the stress-reducing, focus-sharpening benefits of baking. Use the above tips for how to bake healthier and feel free to share success stories and healthy recipes below. Bake away! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Smith, J., Jones, K., & Adams, R. (2021). The impact of baking on stress reduction and mental health: A systematic review. Journal of Positive Psychology, 45(2), 110-124. 2. Brown, L., Cook, D., & Thompson, M. (2020). Baking as a form of mindfulness: The effects on concentration and mental focus. Mindfulness in Everyday Practices, 8(3), 78-89.
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Here Are Some of the Main Reasons Why You Should Take a Multivitamin
Looking for ways to eat healthier? It can be a challenge in today’s world. A major part of the problem involves the quality of the nutrients you derive from the foods you eat. This is largely, but not entirely, influenced by your diet. Though there are myriad diets in our society, many people fall into one of these two general diet categories. A Tale of Two Diets: Do You Have a Happy or SAD Diet? The SAD Diet The standard American diet (SAD) is filled with highly allergenic foods, many of which are laced with artificial chemicals. This diet typically is high in sodium, refined sugars, omega-6 fatty acids, trans fats, and excess calories. It’s also low in the vitally important omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. People who maintain a diet loaded with simple carbohydrates (such as bread, pasta, potatoes, rice, fruit juices, and sugar) have an increased risk for problems with their digestive system, liver, pancreas, heart, circulation, and overall brain health. The SAD diet is largely composed of unhealthy foods that are: Highly processed Pro-inflammatory Artificially colored and sweetened High glycemic index Low in fiber Laden with hormones Pesticide sprayed Tainted with antibiotics In addition to its potentially harmful effects, this diet can prematurely age your brain and increase your risk for many mental and physical issues. The Happy Diet No, I’m not talking about a Happy Meal at McDonald’s. I’m talking about whole foods that can help support your energy, cognition, and mood. Your brain requires foods that are high in vitamins, essential minerals, and other nutrients to help meet its huge energy requirements throughout the day. A healthy diet should include plenty of fresh vegetables, seeds, nuts, berries, beans, free-range poultry, grass-fed meats, and wild caught, cold-water fish. This diet tends to be higher in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. But even those who try to eat a healthy diet may find it challenging to get all the nutrients they need daily. Why? Here are just a few of the many reasons: [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] Environmental Toxins There’s a broad array of toxic substances that can get into our foods. For starters, our water can be polluted or tainted (with lead, arsenic, or other harmful substances). Cadmium can be found in soils treated with synthetic fertilizers and near industrial waste sites. Pesticides, including organochlorines and organophosphates, and herbicides, such as glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup weed killer)¹ can be present in soils used to grow food crops. Soil Depletion Soil depletion is a serious issue that many farmers face today. Modern foods are typically grown in poor soil that’s been depleted of its nutrient content. Sadly, decades of yielding fruits and vegetables with fewer and fewer nutrients has led to the advent of processed and genetically modified foods. GMOs GMOs (genetically modified organisms) are living organisms whose genetic material has been manipulated artificially in a lab via genetic engineering. In agriculture, GMOs have been artificially engineered to withstand the direct application of certain herbicides. Some believe that the genetic engineering process may cause unnatural alterations in a plant’s metabolic pathways or its own naturally occurring proteins, which may lead to the production of toxins or allergens in food. Most GMOs grown around the globe are genetically modified for herbicide tolerance, which has resulted in greater herbicide use. Use of the toxic herbicide Roundup has increased dramatically since GMOs were introduced. Additionally, GMO crops have played a role in creating “superweeds” and “superbugs,” which must be controlled with potent toxic poisons. Genetic Individuality Due to genetic individuality,² some people need more of certain vitamins and minerals than the average person does. Without extensive testing, it may be impossible to know what nutrients you’re deficient in so that you can increase intake of those nutrients in your daily diet. Food Shortages Supply chain issues and food shortages may be affecting your ability to get healthy foods from your local grocery store or health food store. Since these issues are expected to continue for the foreseeable future, it may be necessary to seek out alternative methods of securing the foods you need, such as ordering them from an online delivery service or purchasing fruits and vegetables from a local farmer’s market. [/wc_box] Since so many American foods are grown in poor soils, sprayed with poisons, and technologically manipulated, even those who eat a relatively healthy diet may find it challenging to get all the nutrients they need. So, what can help? One thing is nutritional support. Nutritional Support Numerous large population surveys have documented that the foods currently available aren’t providing enough of the nutrients the brain and body need. Despite your best efforts to follow a healthy diet, many foods are so low in nutrients that you’ll always have a gap in nutrition. That’s where dietary supplements come in – they help fill the gaps in your diet with the nutrients you’re missing by only eating foods. The foundation of every vitamin regimen should be a high-quality, broad-spectrum multivitamin and multimineral supplement. BrainMD offers the premium multivitamin… NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin BrainMD’s NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin is the first and only daily multivitamin that contains over 50 vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts developed through clinical studies.* NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin was formulated to provide whole-body wellness with additional key brain-healthy nutrients.* It offers advanced nutrition in a way that far surpasses big-box store or drugstore multivitamins.* 5 Benefits of NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin Though the benefits of this dynamic, broad-spectrum multivitamin are numerous, NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin can support your daily health by: Nourishing your body’s cells, tissues, and organs with a wide range of essential and conditionally essential nutrients, all important for energy, health, and survival* Going beyond other multiples to further promote optimal brain function with important phytonutrients that help sustain brain cells* Supporting the health of all the body’s organ systems with the full range of vitamins, the essential dietary minerals (except iron and copper), lutein and zeaxanthin for the brain and eyes, resveratrol and hesperidin for the brain and circulation, and coenzyme Q10 (“CoQ”) for the heart* Shoring up the body’s antioxidant defenses with vitamins C and E, the essential minerals zinc, selenium, and manganese, the conditionally essential alpha lipoic acid, CoQ, lutein and zeaxanthin* Including a careful selection of beneficial food concentrates, as well as digestive enzymes to help ensure digestion and absorption* But Wait, There’s More… In addition to high doses of core ingredients, NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin rounds out its formulation with two proprietary blends developed by Dr. Daniel Amen: Fruit and Vegetable Blend – promotes antioxidant versatility* Digestive Enzyme Blend – supports healthy digestion* Scientifically formulated with optimally bioavailable nutrients in their best-utilized and most effective forms, NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin is the only daily multivitamin for men and women that delivers comprehensive brain-boosting benefits.* Feed Your Brain The modern diet isn’t providing sufficient average intakes of various essential nutrients. While failing to get enough of these vitamins and essential nutrients may lead to serious, long-term health issues, feeding your brain and body with healthy foods and high-quality supplements can provide tremendous nutritional health support for you and everyone in your family. Nutritional research³ makes clear that everyone can benefit from taking a multiple vitamin-mineral supplement that’s concentrated, naturally derived, and made with integrity. For all the above, take NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin daily.* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Costas‑Ferreira, C., Durán, R., & Faro, L. R. F. (2022). Toxic effects of glyphosate on the nervous system: A systematic review. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(9), Article 4605. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23094605 2. Olson, M. V. (2012). Human genetic individuality. Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, 13(1), 1–27. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-genom-090711-163825 3. Fletcher, R. H., & Fairfield, K. M. (2002). Vitamins for chronic disease prevention in adults: Clinical applications. JAMA, 287(23), 3127–3129. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.287.23.3127
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Supplement Labeling 101: Here's What You Need to Know
If you get overwhelmed when choosing vitamins, you aren't alone. It’s becoming increasingly difficult to know if you’re getting quality products. Since not all supplements are created equal, how do you know if you’re taking high-quality supplements or just a cheap knockoff in a fancy bottle? Many supplements have fillers, which reduce their effectiveness and may even be harmful to your health. To safeguard against the dangers of low grade products, many people purchase premium supplements. But even some whole food products have revealed lead contamination¹ when tested. To increase the chances that the vitamins you purchase will improve your health, make sure: 1. that what the company claims on the label is accurate and reasonable, 2. that the ingredient list is transparent and clearly understandable, and 3. that the company stands behind their products enough to make you feel safe and confident to shop with them. What To Look For On A Supplement Label Here are some important tips and insights on how to read the labels and claims made by supplement companies so that you can identify the best quality supplements with the maximum benefits: [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] Claims Before you buy a supplement, always read the label. Carefully read the directions for use and for any claims of efficacy and/or safety. Some labels make extravagant claims that may seem hard to believe. Other claims are confusing – many supplement makers are intentionally vague when it comes to the content of their labels. According to the Food & Drug Administration (FDA), supplement companies are legally prohibited from making claims that their products treat, diagnose, prevent, or cure diseases. The FDA does allow claims that a product affects the body’s structure and/or function, nutritional status, or general health and well-being, but the product’s maker must have proof to support all the claims they make. Cautions and Warnings Despite the negative implications associated with them, cautions or warnings on products can be a good thing because they show that the company understands their ingredients and how they can affect the body. Cautions and warnings also indicate that the company places the health and safety of their customers above making another sale. These warnings serve a dual purpose; they prevent the sale of a product to someone that shouldn’t be taking it and make the product available to consumers who can safely take it. Ingredients The Supplement Facts box is the heart of the dietary supplement label. Ideally, a supplement label will accurately list all the active ingredients, in specified order and with precise names for the various nutrients, herbals or other ingredients. Read this very carefully. You may notice, for example, that vitamin A is listed as beta-carotene, which many people don’t efficiently convert to vitamin A. Or that magnesium is listed as magnesium oxide, which is poorly absorbed and is an inferior ingredient compared to magnesium malate, citrate, or glycinate. Sometimes a listed ingredient hasn’t been proven for use in humans. Another factor to be aware of is undesirable additives, especially in the binders or coatings of tablets such as unnecessary sucrose, titanium dioxide, hydrogenated oils, heavy metals including lead and mercury, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). If you have questions or concerns, contact the supplement maker who, by law, must provide their contact information on the label. Testing It’s important to know that your supplements are tested for identity, purity, and potency. Testing is most effectively done on the raw material ingredients before they enter the chain of production. However, in-process testing is also necessary, and the finished product must be tested to ensure the integrity of the entire manufacturing process. Both ingredients and finished products must go through identity and potency verification, heavy metal testing, and microbial testing. All of BrainMD’s products undergo these testing processes, and we employ independent laboratories to do our testing. We also audit our manufacturers, packagers, and testing labs to ensure they have adequate quality control and processing standards in place. [/wc_box] It’s highly recommended that you apply the above criteria to every supplement you purchase. One reason is that the quality of vitamins can widely vary, even among so-called leading brands. A good example of this is fish oil… 3 Key Elements of a High-quality Fish Oil Supplement When searching for a high-quality fish oil supplement, keep these purity standards in mind: Because toxins such as solvents, dioxins, PCBs, furans and more than 250 environmental pollutants can become concentrated in fish, it’s extremely important to choose a fish oil product that is highly purified and analyzed in the laboratory to verify that it is clean. Fish oil spoils easily. Look for a product that has added vitamin E, vitamin C, rosemary, or other safe and effective stabilizers. Avoid suppliers that aren't reputable, because more and more fish oils are being diluted with oils that don't have omega-3 activity. Choose a product that has high amounts of EPA and DHA. Cheap fish oils claim 1000 mg on the label but only provide 300 mg of EPA plus DHA, which isn't an adequate daily dose for most people. BrainMD is proud to offer a fish oil supplement that meets or exceeds all of the above standards… Omega-3 Power Most Americans are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids,² getting barely one-third of the daily amounts needed for optimum brain and body health. Each serving of Omega-3 Power provides 1,600 mg of EPA, DHA, and other omega-3s from ultra-purified, high-quality fish oil – roughly 5 times what is found in conventional brands.* The omega-3 fatty acids in Omega-3 Power are critical to building healthy cell membranes, which are essential for our brain cells to make the trillions of connections that enable peak cognitive, mood, and behavioral performance.* Sourced from pelagic, short-lived fish species (anchovies, sardines, and mackerel), the fish oil in Omega-3 Power undergoes the most advanced purification process in the supplement industry.* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to helping people feel better by creating the highest quality nutritional products for optimizing and balancing brain health. Backed by decades of experience, our clinical research team incorporates the latest scientific findings in creating a wide array of specialized formulas that support brain function, energy, memory, mood, and sleep. Our ultra-pure, science-based and brain directed vitamins were formulated to give you the nutrients you need to be your best self. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Omega-3 Power and our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Bourgoin, B. P., Evans, D. R., Cornett, J. R., Lingard, S. M., & Quattrone, A. J. (1993). Lead content in 70 brands of dietary calcium supplements. American Journal of Public Health, 83(8), 1155–1160. https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.83.8.1155 2. Papanikolaou, Y., Brooks, J., Reider, C., & Fulgoni, V. L., III. (2014). U.S. adults are not meeting recommended levels for fish and omega-3 fatty acid intake: Results of an analysis using observational data from NHANES 2003–2008. Nutrition Journal, 13, 31. https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-31
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7 of the Best Reasons to Become a Health Coach
Have you always wanted to work a job that gives back to others? One occupation that might fill that need is to become a health coach. What’s A Health Coach? People may view the role of a life/health coach in different ways, from guide, to partner, or even health cheerleader. The purpose for becoming a health coach might be different for different people but may include helping others improve their mental or physical health by implementing lifestyle changes. Some of the main areas a health coach may focus on are: Bad habits (alcohol/drugs, smoking, etc.) Diet (fatty, sugary, unhealthy foods) Physical activity Sleep Stress Time management Often, if one of these areas is a problem, others may be as well. For instance, lack of sleep can create a chain reaction that affects many, if not all, of these areas. A health coach can help individuals set up goals and reach those goals by breaking things down into incremental steps. Some may see this process as a journey. Hopefully, the individual will learn many insights about themselves and others along the way. Health coaches may contact their clients via phone, email, or through in-person visits. Sessions may last for three months or more depending on what the individual needs and the availability of the coach. If you’ve been thinking about transitioning to a career where you can help people in tangible ways, here are some of the top reasons to consider becoming a health coach... 7 Reasons to Become a Health Coach Find Your Passion If you’re interested in nutrition and wellness, and have a heart to help people, becoming a health coach might be a natural career option for you. It can be very fulfilling to pass on to others the helpful lifestyle strategies you’ve learned. It’s important to find work you enjoy, that excites you when you roll out of bed in the morning. By contrast, doing work that’s a drudgery can create additional stress, mood issues,¹ and personal/relational problems. Find what you’re passionate about, whether it’s being a health coach or something else, and throw yourself into it. Flexible Learning Many coaching certificates can be earned online. That means you can work at home, Starbucks, or wherever you do your best learning. Once you’ve earned your certificate and have built a client base, you can make appointments to fit your schedule. And, thanks to programs like Zoom, you can meet with people from anywhere in the country, or other parts of the world. Work-Life Balance Helping others become the best versions of themselves can help you do the same. Be sure to build time into your schedule to take walks in nature or engage in a hobby you enjoy. Creating a healthy work-life balance is vital for you and those you counsel. Meet New People If you’re an extrovert or just like to meet new people, being a health coach might be the perfect opportunity for you. Not only will you meet new people while studying to become a wellness coach, you also may meet other coaches during live or online events. This can lead to forging friendships with people all around the world. Help Others Feel Good Imagine how it would feel to help others overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. Being a health coach can create a positive feedback loop where helping others can be personally gratifying. Assisting those who need help can be a win/win for you and the person you’re assisting. Be the Best Version of Yourself As you learn new aspects of health and wellness, you may try to apply them to your own daily routines. Learning about diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors may encourage you to adjust your behaviors and adopt healthy habits. This, in turn, may inspire you to pass on your insights and discoveries to others. Make the World a Better Place Helping people improve their lives is an honorable occupation. It can be personally satisfying to help others make healthier choices for their lives and to watch their progress and personal growth. Your efforts can help make the world a better place…one person at a time. Next Steps If you’re energized by helping others and are looking for a career where you can help people in practical, meaningful ways, becoming a health coach might be right for you. Helping others set and attain personal or health goals can be rewarding and provide a sense of satisfaction² and fulfillment. There are several places you can go to begin the process of becoming a health coach, including the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBC-HWC). Run an online search to see which coaching program is the best fit for you. Take the first step in starting a career that can help you and others today. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Melchior, M., Caspi, A., Milne, B. J., Danese, A., Poulton, R., & Moffitt, T. E. (2007). Work stress precipitates depression and anxiety in young, working women and men. Psychological Medicine, 37(8), 1119–1129. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291707000414 (PMCID: PMC2062493, PMID: 17407618) 2. Weiss-Sidi, M., & Riemer, H. (2023). Help others—be happy? The effect of altruistic behavior on happiness across cultures. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1156661. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1156661 (PMCID: PMC10326385, PMID: 37425146)
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Here Are Some of the Best Ways to Boost Attention and Focus
In today’s fast-paced world, finding ways to improve attention and focus is becoming increasingly essential. Whether it's at work, school, or home, the ability to concentrate on tasks without getting distracted can make a significant difference in productivity and overall well-being. Attention issues aren’t just limited to children; more adults are struggling with staying organized, completing tasks, and maintaining focus. Understanding how to overcome these attention challenges can lead to better outcomes in all areas of life. Common Attention and Focus Issues Some of the most common symptoms that indicate attention and focus problems include: Impulsivity Distractibility Restlessness Forgetfulness Difficulty staying on task Procrastination Several factors can aggravate these attention problems, including a poor diet, exposure to environmental toxins, insufficient sleep, high stress levels, and lack of physical activity. Research has shown that improving attention and focus starts with addressing these underlying issues. Studies suggest that lack of sleep and elevated stress levels can impair cognitive functions,¹ making it harder to concentrate. If left unaddressed, attention problems can lead to poor academic performance, low self-esteem, job failures, and even more serious consequences such as obesity or divorce. However, with the right strategies and support, it’s possible to improve attention and focus effectively. Best Supplements for Attention and Focus Issues Attention Support One of the best ways to improve attention and focus is by providing the brain with the nutrients it needs to function optimally. High-quality brain supplements can help you or your child stay focused, calm, and productive. Attention Support supplements are specifically designed to enhance concentration, self-control, and overall cognitive performance.* The key ingredients in these supplements include: Choline: Supports the brain’s production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter critical for focus and memory.* Magnesium: A vital nutrient for generating brain energy,² maintaining nerve connections, and improving focus and behavior.* PhosphatidylSerine (PS): Clinically proven to enhance learning, memory, and attention.* Pycnogenol®: An antioxidant that promotes blood flow to the brain, improving attention³ in both children and adults.* Vitamin B6: Helps produce neurotransmitters that regulate mood and attention, particularly when combined with magnesium.* Zinc: An essential mineral that has been shown to enhance attention and behavior in clinical trials.* These brain-healthy nutrients are formulated to help individuals stay sharp, focused, and in control, making it easier to improve attention and focus.* Brain & Memory Power Boost If you’re looking for even more support to improve attention and focus, Brain & Memory Power Boost offers clinically researched ingredients that support the brain's most critical functions.* By enhancing blood flow, supporting high energy demands, and improving nerve cell connectivity, this powerful formula ensures that your brain is operating at its best.* Key ingredients include: PhosphatidylSerine (PS): Supports mitochondria in the brain to enhance energy production and focus.* Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC): Promotes healthy neurotransmitter functions and supports brain energy production.* Alpha-Lipoic Acid: A vital nutrient for cellular energy production, offering protection against oxidative stress.* Ginkgo Biloba Extract: Improves blood flow to the brain, enhancing focus and cognitive function.* Huperzine A: Boosts acetylcholine neurotransmission, enhancing attention and learning.* Focus & Energy To combat mental fatigue and foster concentration, Focus & Energy supplements feature adaptogenic herbs that improve mental performance under stress.* This formula includes: Green Tea Extract: Supports brain blood flow and overall mental sharpness.* Ashwagandha: Reduces stress and enhances memory⁴ and focus.* Rhodiola Rosea: Fights fatigue and improves physical and mental performance.* Panax Ginseng: Reduces stress while improving mental focus and memory.* Choline: Supports acetylcholine production, enhancing focus.* These adaptogens and nutrients provide a natural way to improve attention and focus, making them ideal for anyone dealing with mental fatigue and stress.* Neuro-PS Neuro-PS is a targeted single ingredient supplement that supplies phosphatidylserine, a key nutrient that supports attention, learning, and memory.* Phosphatidylserine plays an essential role in supporting the brain’s trillions of synaptic connections and is clinically proven to improve cognitive function in both children and adults.* Natural Support for Attention and Focus If you’re struggling with attention problems or simply looking to boost your focus and mental sharpness, the right supplements can make all the difference.* BrainMD offers high-quality, clinically backed supplements designed to help you improve attention and focus naturally.* Take control of your cognitive health today by incorporating these brain-healthy supplements into your routine.* At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: Killgore, W. D. S., Olson, E. A., & Weber, M. (2017). The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 13, 2065-2072. Barbagallo, M., & Dominguez, L. J. (2010). Magnesium and aging. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 16(7), 832-839. Trebatická, J., Kopasová, S., Hradecná, Z., Čekanová, B., Rohdewald, P., & Ďuračková, Z. (2006). Treatment of ADHD with French maritime pine bark extract, Pycnogenol®. European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 15(6), 329-335. Choudhary, D., Bhattacharyya, S., & Bose, S. (2017). Efficacy and safety of ashwagandha root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions. Journal of Dietary Supplements, 14(6), 599-612.
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This is the Smarter Way to Get Your Greens
Although most people know it’s important to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in their diet, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that only 1 in 10 Americans¹ are getting enough of these highly nutritious foods. This is due, in large part, to the prevalence of the standard American diet (SAD). The consequences of not eating a healthy diet are potentially serious, as we’re seeing every day in our country. Failure to get the necessary nutrients from fruits and vegetables can lead to a host of physical and mental problems. These include cardiovascular and blood flow issues, memory and focus challenges, serious weight problems, gastrointestinal issues, hormone imbalance, and even vision troubles. One of the best ways to help ensure you get sufficient levels of vitamins, minerals, flavonoid antioxidants, and anti-free radical carotenoids every day is with BrainMD’s delicious, nutrient-rich greens superfood powder. Meet Neuro Greens Superfood Powder Neuro Greens Superfood powder was developed from the latest scientific research on superfoods, which are foods especially rich with nutrients and other substances beneficial to human health.* This formula features a diversity of superfoods proven to support the brain, immune system, and entire body.* Feel Plant-astic Plants produce vast arrays of substances called “phytochemicals” that enable them to adapt, survive, and thrive wherever they’re located. Tens of thousands of phytochemicals have been identified. Many phytochemicals are nutrients that sustain the plant’s life processes. Some are antioxidants that provide essential protection against damage from sunlight. Others have an astounding variety of biological activities that help the plant repel predators, attract pollinators, or summon fruit eaters that later disperse their seeds. Neuro Greens Superfood powder vegetables, fruits, leaves, roots, algae, and nutritious mushroom fungi supply a wide range of phytochemicals.* Taste the Natural Rainbow This scientifically formulated combination of green, red, yellow, blue, purple, brown, and black superfood concentrates provides thousands of potent plant substances.* Neuro Greens Superfood powder includes diverse substances that can help detoxify and energize the body while providing substantial immune protection.* It also promotes healthy digestion from its contribution of prebiotic fibers, which support friendly bacteria (probiotics) in the gut.* Crafted with 20 different fruits, vegetables, algae, and fibers from every color in the rainbow, plus 4 medicinal mushrooms, this formula is scientifically designed to fuel your body with the nutrients it needs to thrive.* Consuming the optimal amount of greens each day can be a challenge. Neuro Greens Superfood powder makes it easy…scoop, stir, and enjoy! Here’s a breakdown of the many powerful superfoods you’ll find in Neuro Greens Superfood powder… Organic Greens Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) – This freshwater, multicellular, blue-green alga is dense in protein, magnesium, iron, vitamin A (as beta-carotene), vitamin B12, and GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), which is a non-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid. Chlorella (Chlorella vulgaris) – This freshwater, single-cell, green alga promotes maintenance of cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar already within their normal ranges. Kale and Broccoli – Rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, these two vegetables of the crucifer family are substantial contributors of glucosinolates, potassium, chromium, vitamins C, K, folate, and fiber to the diet. Moringa (Moringa oleifera) – Moringa’s leaves, which come from “The Miracle Tree” in Africa and Asia, are rich in protein, vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and manganese. Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis, leaf concentrate) – Drinking green tea promotes healthy cholesterol, triglyceride, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels already within their normal ranges. Organic Reds and Yellows Carrot Root – This root is rich in the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which are essential for vision and brain function, as well as beta-carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A. Strawberry – In clinical trials, strawberries improved joint pain, blood antioxidant status, and promoted cholesterol levels already within a normal range. Acerola Cherry – One of the most concentrated sources of vitamin C in nature, with about 50-100 times more than an orange or lemon, acerola also carries carotenoids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, making it an antioxidant marvel. Raspberry – Raspberries are rich in ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and other polyphenol antioxidants. Pomegranate Extract – This fruit is particularly rich in ellagic acid, ellagitannins, and related polyphenols, and shows unique promise against pain. Organic Blues, Purples, and Blacks Blueberry – Daily consumption of blueberry concentrate has the potential to improve cognitive function, vision, circulatory health, blood sugar, and gut function. Blackberry – Blackberries are rich in a powerful antioxidant, the anthocyanin called cyanidin-3-glucoside, as well as in various well-researched flavonoid antioxidants such as catechins, quercetin, and kaempferol. Blackcurrant – Blackcurrants promote healthy intraocular (eye) pressure and are extremely rich in super-antioxidants including anthocyanins and proanthocyanidin flavonoids. Beet Root – A traditional medicinal, beetroot provides nitrate, which helps maintain healthy circulatory tone, betacynin, a unique purple anthocyanin antioxidant, and trimethylglycine (TMG, betaine), which is involved in neurotransmitter activity and other brain function. Organic Immunity Support Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) – The beta-glucans in lion’s mane mushrooms support immune health, and its content of hericenones and erinacines can increase nerve growth factor in the brain. Maitake (Grifola frondosa) – Sometimes called “the dancing mushroom” because people got so happy finding it in the wild, maitake’s alpha- and beta-glucans promote healthy immunity. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) – In addition to beta-glucans, reishi contains triterpenes, which contribute to its benefits for immunity and healthy inflammatory response. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) – Shiitake promotes healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within normal range, and contains lentinan, a beta-glucan well studied for its immunity benefits. Goji Berry Extract (Lycium barbarum) – These bright red berries contain both alpha- and beta-glucan polysaccharides, and also show immune system benefits.² Kelp (Vitakelp®) (Ascophyllum nodosum) – This sustainably harvested cold-water, brown seaweed is a good source of potassium, calcium, and magnesium, and also contains ascophyllan, a unique sulfur-containing carbohydrate that has immune activity. Organic Prebiotic Fibers Inulin – This soluble fiber has consistently improved probiotic survival and proliferation³ in clinical trials, including the bifidobacteria, which are the most abundant natural inhabitants of a healthy large intestine. Apple Fiber – After an apple is consumed, some of its unique pectin fiber reaches the colon, where bifido- and other friendly bacteria convert it to short-chain fatty acids that nourish the colon lining, liver, and other organs. Flaxseed (defatted) – Once its oil has been removed, flaxseed becomes a rich source of lignans, lignins, and other fibers that increase fecal bulk for better elimination and feed the colon’s probiotics to produce health-promoting short-chain fatty acids. Other Ingredients Organic Sunflower Lecithin – An emulsifier that improves the mixing of a powder into liquid, lecithin is also a source of phospholipids, nutrients that are essential for all our cells to make and maintain their membrane systems. Stevia Rebaudioside A – A non-sucrose sweetener, Stevia Rebaudioside A comes from the organically grown stevia leaf. Neuro Greens Superfood Powder FAQ Who can benefit from Neuro Greens Superfood powder? Practically everyone. Adults and children over 4 can safely consume this superfood. How can I use this supplement? Mix one scoop (7.5 grams) into 8 oz. or more of water, juice, non-dairy milk, or a smoothie. Feel free to consume more than one scoop per day. Is Neuro Greens Superfood powder safe to use if I am taking medication? We recommend that individuals taking warfarin not use this supplement since the goji berry extract may interfere with warfarin’s action. Does this supplement contain allergens? No. Neuro Greens Superfood powder is free from dairy, gluten, corn, soy, eggs, nuts, yeast, and artificial colorings or flavorings. Neuro Greens Superfood powder is non-GMO. It is suitable for vegans and is Keto and Paleo-friendly. Feel The Power Of Powder Neuro Greens Superfood powder is nature’s healing bounty delivered in a delicious, nutrient-rich powder.* Try it today! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients and standardized herbal ingredients to support your overall well-being. For more information about Neuro Greens Superfood powder and our full list of supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen. References: 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Only 1 in 10 adults get enough fruits or vegetables: Men, younger adults, and people living in poverty get fewest fruits/vegetables. Retrieved [12/31/2024], from https://www.cdc.gov 2. Andoni, E., Curone, G., Agradi, S., Barbato, O., Menchetti, L., Vigo, D., Zelli, R., Cotozzolo, E., Ceccarini, M. R., Faustini, M., Quattrone, A., Castrica, M., & Brecchia, G. (2021). Effect of Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) supplementation on reproductive performance of rabbit does. Animals (Basel), 11(6), 1672. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11061672 3. Pereira, W. A., Piazentin, A. C. M., da Silva, T. M. S., Mendonça, C. M. N., Villalobos, E. F., Converti, A., & Oliveira, R. P. S. (n.d.). Alternative fermented soy-based beverage: Impact of inulin on the growth of probiotic strains and starter culture. [Journal Name]. Retrieved [12/31/2024], from [https://www.mdpi.com/2311-5637/9/11/961]
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CoQ10 Can Help You Have Better Energy and Heart Health
CoenzymeQ10: The Missing Link for Heart Health and Energy Coenzyme Q10—known commonly as CoQ10 and often referred to as the "spark plug" for our cells-- is a vital molecule that plays a central role in cellular energy production. It’s so important, that we make it in every cell of our body. (More on that later. Spoiler alert: We don’t make it very efficiently as we get older.) When I say CoQ10 is the “energy molecule”, I’m not kidding. CoQ10 is necessary for creating adenosine triphosphate (ATP)—the energy “currency” that powers nearly every cellular function in the body and is needed for every single action you take, from sleeping to running a marathon, from blinking your eyes to dancing the macarena (7,11). Without sufficient CoQ10, our cells struggle to generate the energy they need, especially in high-demand organs like the heart, brain, and muscles, where energy requirements are particularly high (7). Not surprisingly, CoQ10 is especially concentrated in energy-demanding organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys (12). And speaking of the heart, in the 1970s Japanese researchers pioneered studies on CoQ10 because they recognized its benefits in treating heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions. It was approved as a prescription medication for congestive heart failure in Japan, where it’s still used in this context today. Japan remains one of the few countries where CoQ10 is prescribed as a medication rather than just marketed as a dietary supplement, underscoring its established role in cardiovascular treatment there. Moreover, individuals taking statin medications to manage cholesterol may experience even greater CoQ10 depletion (4). Statins work by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway, which is essential not only for cholesterol production but also for CoQ10 synthesis. This interference can result in lowered CoQ10 levels, potentially leading to muscle pain and fatigue—two of the most common statin side-effects. Depleted CoQ10 can even, in some cases, lead to compromised heart function (4, 8). This decline in CoQ10 can lead to a range of issues, from decreased stamina and vitality to a heightened risk of cardiovascular and neurological conditions (27). Certain lifestyle factors, like poor diet, stress, and environmental exposures, can also contribute to lower CoQ10 levels, accelerating the aging process at the cellular level (25). CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant. And as we age, our natural levels of CoQ10 decline, reducing the body’s capacity to produce energy and defend against oxidative damage (13). And to make matters worse, certain common medications, such as statins, further deplete these levels, making supplementation beneficial for many people (5, 19). Oh, and by the way: It is nearly impossible to get optimal amounts of CoQ10 from food. The most CoQ10 rich foods in the world are organ meats, which few people eat regularly, and which only contain a couple milligrams per portion anyway. For all these reasons, CoQ10 supplementation, especially in a highly absorbable form like UbiQsome®, can help counteract the negative effects of depleted CoQ10, restore energy levels and muscle function (16), and—most important of all—be beneficial in supporting cellular energy, heart health, and overall vitality as we age (19). Why CoQ10 Matters Research has shown that CoQ10’s role extends way beyond energy production. Its powerful antioxidant properties—briefly mentioned earlier—means that it helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals—rogue oxygen molecules that run wild in our body wreaking cellular havoc--- are a mighty contributor to aging and the to the development of nearly every chronic disease you can think of (3). Studies suggest that by neutralizing free radicals, CoQ10 can support cardiovascular health, enhance exercise performance, and improve brain health—all crucial for maintaining quality of life as we age (16, 27). Earlier, we mentioned statins, which may indeed be necessary for some patients, but what must be understood is this: Statins reduce cholesterol by inhibiting the mevalonate pathway, which is also responsible for CoQ10 synthesis. So sure, your body makes less cholesterol—which may or may not turn out to be as important as we once thought—but meanwhile, you’re also making less CoQ10, and you can’t afford to make any less of that than you already do. So for those taking statins, CoQ10 supplementation is particularly important. Compromised CoQ10 levels can sometimes lead to muscle pain, fatigue, and even compromised heart function (4, 8). Supplementing with CoQ10, especially in a highly absorbable form like UbiQsome®, supports muscle health, protects cellular energy production, and enhances overall cardiovascular function—making it a critical consideration for anyone relying on statins for heart health (16, 20, 30). CoQ10, Aging, and Energy As we grow older, our body’s production of CoQ10 naturally slows down, leading to a gradual decline in cellular energy (2, 12). (You may have noticed this!) This reduction in CoQ10 can be particularly noticeable in energy-intensive organs like the heart and muscles, where it plays a key role in maintaining vitality, endurance, and overall function (1, 8). The decrease in CoQ10 levels is not only associated with lower energy but also contributes to oxidative stress—that’s the damage from free radicals we talked about earlier, a process that accelerates cellular aging and may increase the risk of chronic diseases (13, 25). CoQ10 protects cells from oxidative damage, which can accumulate over time and contribute to age-related conditions like cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders (3, 21, 26) For those looking to counteract the effects of aging, CoQ10 supplementation offers a proactive approach to enhancing energy, protecting cells, and supporting long-term health. Whether you’re aiming to maintain stamina, support heart health, or guard against the impact of oxidative stress, CoQ10 provides a unique combination of benefits that make it an essential addition to a healthy aging regimen (10, 13, 23). Ubiquinone vs. Ubiquinol: Understanding the Different Forms of CoQ10 (and Why it Matters) CoQ10 supplements are available in two primary forms: ubiquinone and ubiquinol. These two forms of CoQ10 are essentially different stages of the same molecule—ubiquinone is the oxidized form, while ubiquinol is the reduced, “active” form (7, 17). Each has unique characteristics, and choosing the right form can impact how well CoQ10 is absorbed and utilized in the body. Ubiquinone, the more common form, has been used in the majority of CoQ10 research studies. It is well-established for supporting cellular energy and has a long track record of safety and efficacy (17, 13). When taken as a supplement, ubiquinone is converted into ubiquinol within the body to perform its antioxidant functions. However, because ubiquinone is less readily absorbed, especially in older adults or individuals with specific health conditions, some people may not experience its full benefits (1, 15). Ubiquinol, on the other hand, is promoted as a more bioavailable form due to its pre-reduced state, meaning it is already in the form the body needs to exert antioxidant effects (7, 16). This enhanced absorption can be beneficial for older adults or those with compromised CoQ10 levels, allowing them to achieve higher plasma levels of CoQ10 more quickly. However, ubiquinol tends to be more expensive, and some experts debate whether its higher cost is justified, given that both forms ultimately provide similar benefits in the body (14, 17). In choosing between ubiquinone and ubiquinol, individual needs, health conditions, and cost considerations often play a role. For many people, either form can be effective, as both support cellular energy production and antioxidant defense (7, 17). BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10 harnesses the advanced UbiQsome® form, designed with cutting-edge Phytosome® technology to maximize absorption and deliver CoQ10 efficiently to cells, regardless of the form (16, 18). Benefits of CoQ10: Backed by Research CoQ10’s range of benefits is supported by extensive research, particularly in areas like heart health, energy production, cellular protection, and support for individuals on statin therapy. Here’s how CoQ10 can support vitality and well-being: 1. Heart Health CoQ10 is particularly important for heart function, as the heart requires a substantial amount of energy to pump blood efficiently. CoQ10 helps maintain energy levels in heart cells and has been linked to improved outcomes in individuals with heart conditions. Research shows that CoQ10 supplementation can help enhance cardiac function, improve symptoms in those with heart failure, and support overall cardiovascular health by reducing oxidative damage to heart tissues (3, 8, 20). 2. Energy and Stamina As a core component of ATP production, CoQ10 plays a critical role in sustaining cellular energy, especially in high-demand organs such as the heart, brain, and muscles. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation can improve exercise capacity, reduce fatigue, and boost stamina, making it popular among active individuals and athletes (9, 12, 24). By supporting mitochondrial function, CoQ10 helps cells generate the energy they need to perform at their best, which is especially beneficial as natural levels decline with age (2, 18, 22). 3. Anti-Aging and Cellular Health CoQ10’s antioxidant properties help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to cellular aging and damage. By neutralizing free radicals, CoQ10 protects cells from damage that can lead to premature aging and the development of chronic diseases. Supplementing with CoQ10 can aid in cellular repair and maintenance, contributing to healthy skin, longevity, and overall resilience against age-related decline (10, 21, 23). 4. Support for Statin Users Studies show that supplementing with CoQ10 can alleviate statin-related muscle pain and fatigue. For individuals taking statins, CoQ10 is a vital addition to prevent depletion and maintain optimal heart and muscle health, allowing them to enjoy the cardiovascular benefits of statins without sacrificing energy and well-being (4, 5, 11, 27). Best CoQ10 Supplements CoQ10 is an essential nutrient for energy production, heart health, and cellular resilience, and its benefits are well-documented in scientific research. As we age, maintaining optimal CoQ10 levels becomes increasingly important, especially for those on medications like statins, which can deplete this vital nutrient (4, 5, 11). By supporting mitochondrial function, protecting against oxidative stress, and aiding heart health, CoQ10 stands out as a powerful ally in the pursuit of longevity and well-being (1, 3, 10). BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10, with its advanced UbiQsome® Phytosome technology, is specially formulated to provide superior absorption and effectiveness. Whether you’re looking to enhance daily energy, support cardiovascular health, or protect your cells from age-related decline, BrainMD’s CoQ10 offers a potent, bioavailable solution to keep you at your best (16, 18). For anyone committed to proactive, vibrant health, CoQ10 is a natural choice. Discover how BrainMD’s Optimized CoQ10 can be a key part of your wellness journey and give your cells the support they need to thrive (17, 27). Remember, when your cells thrive…. you thrive! Scientific References: Brown M, et al. "The effect of statins on CoQ10 levels." Journal of Clinical Lipidology, 2018. Cirilli I, et al. "Role of Coenzyme Q10 in Health and Disease: An Update on the Last 10 Years (2010-2020)." Antioxidants (Basel), 2021. Cooke M, et al. "Effects of acute and 14-day coenzyme Q10 supplementation on exercise performance in both trained and untrained individuals." J Int Soc Sports Nutr, 2008. Davis W, et al. "CoQ10 for muscle health in statin users." American Journal of Cardiology, 2019. Fišar Z, Hroudová J. "CoQ10 and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Alzheimer's Disease." Antioxidants (Basel), 2024. Folkers K, et al. "A one-year bioavailability study of coenzyme Q10 with 3 months withdrawal period." Mol Aspects Med, 1994. Green E, et al. "CoQ10 in heart failure management." Cardiovascular Drugs and Therapy, 2017. Huang Y, et al. "Statin-related muscle pain and CoQ10." Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 2018. Chen, Y. Liu, Z. Zhao, J. Qiu, "Oxidative stress in the skin: Impact and related protection." Int. J. Cosmet. Sci., 2021. Jelinek M, et al. "Oxidative Stress in the Brain: Basic Concepts and Treatment Strategies in Stroke." Antioxidants (Basel), 2021. Johnson JP, et al. "Role of CoQ10 in mitochondrial function." Cell Metabolism, 2019. Kędziora-Kornatowska K, et al. "Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on antioxidative enzymes in hypertensive patients." Arch Med Sci, 2010. Lee K, et al. "CoQ10 levels and age-related decline." Aging Cell, 2020. Liang Y, et al. "Effects of coenzyme Q10 supplementation on glycemic control." eClinicalMedicine, 2022. Mantle D, Dybring A. "Bioavailability of Coenzyme Q10: An Overview." Antioxidants (Basel), 2020. Mantle D, et al. "Coenzyme Q10 and Immune Function: An Overview." Antioxidants (Basel), 2021. Mine Y, et al. "Stimulatory effects of collagen production induced by coenzyme Q10." J Clin Biochem Nutr, 2022. Nguyen P, et al. "Exercise capacity and CoQ10." Journal of Sports Medicine, 2019. Patel R, et al. "CoQ10 supplementation guidelines." Journal of Dietary Supplements, 2021. Petrangolini G, et al. "A New Food-grade Coenzyme Q10 Formulation Improves Bioavailability." Curr Drug Deliv, 2019. Smith T, et al. "Antioxidant properties of CoQ10." Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 2021. Sood B, et al. "Coenzyme Q10." StatPearls, 2024. Tsai IC, et al. "Effectiveness of Coenzyme Q10 Supplementation for Reducing Fatigue." Front Pharmacol, 2022. White A, et al. "Ubiquinone vs. ubiquinol: A comparison of CoQ10 forms." Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 2020. Zhang L, et al. "Anti-aging effects of CoQ10." Journal of Gerontology, 2022. Zozina VI, et al. "Coenzyme Q10 in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases." Curr Cardiol Rev, 2018. Žmitek K, et al. "Effect of dietary intake of coenzyme Q10 on skin parameters." Biofactors, 2017. Mayo Clinic. Metabolic Syndrome. Available at: Mayo Clinic.
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