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Pumpkin Chocolate Smoothie
Halloween is arguably the beginning of that time of year when you are tempted to overindulge on all the holiday goodies and your dedication to a healthy lifestyle can go out the window. This DOESN’T have to happen! Although we all know we should stay away from foods containing sugar and simple carbohydrates, it can be especially difficult to resist and avoid these foods during Halloween. Eating sugary foods causes a spike in your blood sugar, contributes to insulin resistance and triggers inflammation in your body. Additionally, simple carbohydrates (like sugar) negatively affect your cholesterol, as well as suppress the signals sent by the hunger and satiety hormones, which are responsible for letting you know when to stop eating. Simply put, the more sugar and other simple carbs you eat, the hungrier you will be! However, nobody wants to feel deprived, especially during the holidays, so it is important to find healthy options. In this short video, NY Times bestselling author, registered nurse, nationally renowned speaker, and highly respected health and fitness expert, Tana Amen, BSN, RN shares a delicious and satisfying recipe for a yummy dessert, Chocolate Pumpkin Protein Smoothie. One of the critical ingredients in this recipe is Omni Protein. Omni Protein takes plant-based protein powder to a whole new level. Its unique, plant-based protein blend is combined with important amino acids and digestive enzymes for a fiber-rich formula that nourishes the body and tastes great - so you don’t feel deprived! Additionally, Omni Protein contains no artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors, soy, dairy, sugar or GMOs while it delivers 21 grams of complete protein. By helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels while creating a feeling of fullness, it also supports healthy appetite management and helps you resist sugar-laden Halloween treats and avoid candy coma! “Creating a feeling of satiety with fiber-rich protein intake, supporting balanced blood sugar levels, and promoting brain focus and healthy metabolism are all critical to success. Omni Protein does it all.” – Tana Amen, BSN, RN
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3 Strategies for Overcoming Cravings
Are there times when cravings often get the best of you? Or are your loved ones concerned that certain behaviors you have seem out of control? Don’t get too down on yourself! This may be a sign that your brain’s reward system has been HIJACKED! What is the brain’s reward system? It is an intricate network of brain systems and neurotransmitters that are critical to human survival. It drives us to seek out the things we need to stay alive and carry on the human race. Additionally, the brain’s reward system will tell us to repeat things it finds pleasurable (even if they aren’t good for us), and is linked directly to the emotional memory centers that drive us to repeat “rewarding” behaviors. For example, think of how you feel when you smell freshly baked cookies. Even if you’re not hungry, your brain may urge you to eat one anyway! While the reward system can be activated when listening to music, taking a warm bath, or looking at a beautiful painting, it can also be activated by many unhealthy things such as, alcohol, cigarettes, recreational drugs, gambling, electronics, sugar, junk food and chronic overeating. After working with thousands of people with cravings, we know just how tough it can be to overcome them and take back self-control. However, we have seen it work over and over again and know that it is one of the most worthwhile things you can do in your life. Here Are 3 Strategies To Help Curb Your Cravings 1. H-A-L-T You will be better able to exercise self-control and deal with your cravings if you live by the acronym H-A-L-T, which stands for: Don’t get too Hungry. Eat frequent, small, high-quality meals and take nutritional supplements to optimize your brain and balance your blood sugar. BrainMD’s Craving Control can help diminish the frequency and intensity of your cravings, allowing you to more effectively achieve better control over your behavior. Don’t get too Angry. Maintain control over your emotions and don’t let negative thinking patterns rule your life. Learn how to kill your ANTs (Automatic Negative Thoughts) so you can gain more control over your feelings and behavior. Don’t get too Lonely. Social skills and a positive social network are critical to maintaining freedom from cravings. Enlist a team of supporters and healthy role models. Don’t get too Tired. Make sleep a priority to boost brain function and improve judgment and self-control. 2. EXERCISE Physical exercise is a fantastic strategy to help you reduce cravings and increase self-control. Exercise helps in a number of ways, including: Boosting serotonin in your brain to help you get unstuck when you can’t stop thinking about pepperoni pizza, potato chips, beer, or checking your phone Increasing blood flow and dopamine in your brain which improves impulse control Reducing stress, improving your mood, and lowering your blood sugar levels 3. DISTRACT YOURSELF Multiple research studies have demonstrated that cravings typically last for only 10 minutes. Recognize that and divert your mind: Call a friend, read a book, solve a crossword puzzle, work in your garden, take a bath, do chores around the house, listen to music, run an errand, meditate or exercise (see strategy #2). Conquering your cravings will improve every aspect of your life, including your family life, your relationships, your career, and your school life.
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Craving Control Can Support Your Willpower
Willpower – we all have it, some more than others. But do you really know what it is? Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines willpower as the ability to control yourself with energetic determination. Willpower is like a muscle. You have to use it—or you’ll lose it. Most of us learn to develop self-control as children. When our parents say no to us when we ask if we can do things that aren’t good for us—have a plate of cookies before dinner, ride on the back of a neighbor’s motorcycle without a helmet, or grab the tail of a strange dog—we learn to say no to ourselves. But maybe your parents weren’t around much, and you had free rein to do whatever you wanted so you never learned self-control. Or perhaps your parents had addictions, and you learned to give in to your desires by watching their behavior. Or perhaps the stress of your over-scheduled life has robbed you of your ability to say no. No matter what the reason is for your lack of willpower, you can strengthen it. To pump up your willpower, you need to practice it. Making a habit of saying no to the things that aren’t good for you will, over time, become easier to do. Easier said than done, though, isn’t it? One of the things that can dramatically challenge our willpower is cravings. Anyone who has ever tried to make better choices knows all too well how cravings can sabotage the best intentions. Giving in to cravings is indeed undermining your health! If you’re trying to change unhealthy habits, BrainMD Health’s Craving Control can support your willpower to help you stay in control. Together with a healthy diet, exercise and Dr. Amen’s brain-healthy strategies, Craving Control can diminish the frequency and intensity of your cravings, helping you to more effectively achieve better control over your behavior. Taken as directed, Craving Control helps to: Reduce cravings for sweets, other foods, and other cravings Support healthy blood sugar and insulin levels Support your weight-loss goals Provide antioxidants and other essential nutrients Craving Control contains six active ingredients that work synergistically to help calm the craving centers in the brain, balance blood sugar and insulin levels and promote a positive mood with clinically studied, all-natural ingredients. 6 Powerful, Natural Ingredients in Craving Control Chromium This diet-friendly element has been shown to ease cravings for fatty foods by supporting healthy blood sugar and insulin levels. N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) This powerful anti-oxidant also helps to reduce cravings. As a vasodilator, NAC helps to relax blood vessels, improving the flow of blood, nutrients and oxygen everywhere in the body. L-Glutamine An amino acid that supports healthy muscle and cell metabolism, it has also been shown to help reduce food cravings. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) ALA is an antioxidant made by the body. It’s found in every cell, where it turns glucose into energy. ALA helps support healthy blood sugar, which is important for brain health and decreasing cravings. DL-Phenylalanine This amino acid helps to produce three key brain neurotransmitters: dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, thus helping to promote alertness, mood, and appetite control. High-Flavonol Cocoa Cocoa flavonoids exhibit significant anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune stimulating effects. By stimulating blood flow to the brain, these flavonoids can promote a more positive mood and sharper mind. If you’re trying to change unhealthy habits, Craving Control can help, by boosting your willpower to stay more in control. “Craving Control, along with the right food and behavioral strategies, can help strengthen your ability to defeat the craving monster that steals your success.”– Daniel G. Amen, MD
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How Probiotics Keep You Balanced
Did you know that there is an entire world of microorganisms living in your body? It’s true! Your intestines host TRILLIONS of organisms, including at least 1,000 different species of bacteria. Some are beneficial, and some are not. You are more likely to be healthy and happy when the beneficial microorganisms in your gut outnumber and outpower the harmful ones. That’s where probiotics come in – they support the healthy microorganisms that help keep you balanced. In fact, the word “probiotic” comes from Latin: pro means “support” and biotic means “life.” The very definition is something that affirms health and life. That's true even by today’s standards – the World Health Organization defines a probiotic as any living microorganism that has a health benefit when ingested. Likewise, the USDA defines a probiotic as any “live, nonpathogenic, nontoxic microbial organisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” 1. Immune Support Research has documented the beneficial effects of probiotics supporting the immune system. Your immunity starts in your gut. A condition called intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut syndrome, is a major source of impaired immunity. When the lining of the intestines is harmed, it becomes permeable – meaning substances that should stay in the intestines can pass out of them. Permeability allows undigested food, bacteria, and waste products to “leak” out of the intestines, which can cause infections, allergies, and digestive problems. It is vital to increase the level of all “good bacteria” in the gut. These bacteria actually help tighten the intestinal “junctions” through which leaking occurs. Probiotics provide these good bacteria thus helping to balance the flora in the gut. 2. What Hurts Your Good Bugs Gut flora can be thrown out of balance by many factors, including antibiotics, pesticide-laden foods, artificial sweeteners, leaky gut, poor diet, infection, stress, a high-acid diet, and even just the normal changes that occur in your digestive system as you age. It is pretty clear that probiotics are beneficial for the body, but did you know that they can also help your brain? 3. Supporting Brain Health Multiple research studies have shown that a healthy gut is linked to better memory, improved stress response and better behavior. A research study done at Oxford University found a connection between gut bacteria and mental health in humans. Another study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles found that women who regularly consumed probiotics showed altered activity of brain regions that control central processing of emotion and sensation and had a reduced level of worry compared to women given a placebo or no treatment. 4. Ways To Boost Happy Bugs Now that you realize how critical it is to include probiotics in your healthy life plan, how do you do it? Probiotics are found in a variety of foods, including: Yogurt Kefir Fresh sauerkraut Raw dandelion greens Miso Tempeh Kimchi Kombucha tea 5. ProBrainBiotics Another way to help support gut flora is by taking a probiotic supplement. That’s why BrainMD Health created ProBrainBiotics – that was specifically formulated to support the health of your gut and your brain. Make ProBrainBiotics a part of your daily life! “When your gut isn’t healthy, your brain will not be healthy. Intestinal problems increase inflammation, a low level fire that destroys your organs, and increases your risk for moodiness, nervousness, pain and memory issues. When we take antibiotics or eat pesticide-laden foods, it upsets this delicate balance and we are much more likely to get sick. Remember, pesticides kill bugs, even the ones in your gut. Eat right and take probiotics. I designed ProBrainBiotics to give people an easy way to get the beneficial gut bacteria they need in one easy-to-use supplement.” — Daniel G. Amen, MD
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Brain Boost on the Go
Your brain is 80% water, which means you need to stay well-hydrated in order to keep your brain functioning optimally. According to a study published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, participants in the study who drank water before performing cognitive tasks reacted faster than people who did not drink water beforehand. Conversely, being dehydrated decreases your thinking, increases your stress hormones, impairs your judgment, and can damage your brain over time. Hydration is key not only to brain function, but to whole-body health. Every organ in the body needs adequate hydration to function properly. It is recommended that you drink at least 84 ounces of water a day. But who really likes to drink plain water all day long? That’s why Dr. Amen created Brain Boost on the Go. It is primarily for people who don’t like drinking water all day – or who simply want some variety when seeking healthy hydration. And, he took it to another level by adding brain healthy ingredients to boost your mental function and energy with a delicious, refreshing flavor! Watch this short video featuring Dr. Amen and BrainMD Health’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Parris Kidd, to learn more about the ways in which the newly reformulated Brain Boost on the Go can help: promote concentration and attention enhance mental clarity and cognitive function increase energy levels without caffeine We’re constantly on the run, trying to juggle all the things we have to do with all the things we want to do. And in order to make it in today’s fast-paced world, you’ve got to stay focused with plenty of energy. It is tempting to reach for a “quick-fix” energy drink or cup of coffee. But watch out! Relying on caffeine and energy drinks actually makes you feel worse in the long run by causing your system to crash, burning out your energy reserve, and constricting your blood vessels (NOT what you want for your brain!) Furthermore, excessive long-term caffeine use is associated with dehydration (which can harm your brain and body in numerous ways), stress on your heart, high blood pressure, sleep issues, moodiness, jitteriness, and headaches, to name a few. So why not opt for the smarter choice? Here’s what you get with Brain Boost on the Go: Effervescence – helps to oxygenate your brain and body as you drink it B6 – calms things down in the brain and can be helpful for memory function B12 and Folate – promote cognitive health and mental sharpness L-Theanine – a component of green tea (decaffeinated) which has been demonstrated to promote relaxation and focus as well as enhance feelings of well-being Organic fruit blend – powerful antioxidant fruits which are providing you with phytonutrients which are chemicals from plants that may help prevent disease and keep your body working properly And best of all, it tastes GREAT! Brain Boost on the Go is a convenient way to "feed your brain" with easy-to-carry drink sticks that add nutrients and flavor to your daily hydration. “Your active brain needs nutrients, but it also needs water. I put a Brain Boost on the Go stick in a bottle of water and I stay energized and focused.” – Daniel G. Amen, MD
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Her's Why Probiotics Are Critical to Maintaining Good Health
When most people hear about bacteria, they think of germs, illness and its reputation as the bad guy. However, unlike the bad bacteria that can cause disease, probiotics are the good guys – the beneficial bacteria that are critical to maintaining good health. Did you know that one of the best ways to a healthy brain may lie in your gut? It’s true! Most people don’t realize that their intestines hold about 3-4 pounds of bacteria that are involved in practically every aspect of your health. In fact, our bodies are actually highly sophisticated and complicated ecosystems, and a big part of that ecosystem is made up of at least a thousand species of bacteria that live in our intestinal system. The good bacteria help regulate everything in this ecosystem – from supporting our digestion to programming the nervous and immune systems. These same bacteria also help produce neurotransmitters that support healthy brain functions. When you don’t have enough of these friendly bacteria, you can have digestive problems, difficultly managing stress, irritability, and other negative behaviors. That’s where BrainMD Health’s new ProBrainBiotics can help. Watch this short video featuring Dr. Amen and BrainMD Health’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Parris Kidd, to learn more about how this very important nutritional supplement can help get your gut right so your brain can be right! Multiple research studies have shown that a healthy gut is linked to better memory, improved stress response and better behavior. A study done at Oxford University pointed to a connection between gut bacteria and mental health in humans. Another study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles found that women who regularly consumed probiotics showed altered activity of brain regions that control central processing of emotion and sensation, and had a reduced level of worry compared to women given a placebo or no treatment. The benefits of ProBrainBiotics are numerous, helping with: Digestion – Promotes healthy digestion Focus – Supports concentration and attention Mood – Supports positive mood and emotional balance Immunity – Provides antioxidant support and nutritional immune system boosters ProBrainBiotics contains the precise probiotic strains at the same potency used in the clinical trials of gut-brain cooperation. These special strains have many unique features, including: Are not destroyed by stomach acids, so they can work in the intestines Help repel harmful bacteria Supports the tight “seal” of the gut lining to prevent “leaky gut syndrome” Supports healthy immunity By supporting your gut health, you are supporting your brain health, helping you to feel and be your best! [wc_button type="primary" url="https://www.brainmdhealth.com/probrainbiotic-60ct" title="Order Now" target="self" position="float"]Order Now[/wc_button]
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Here Are 8 Foods to Rock Your Brain
Do you often find yourself feeling cranky? Do you reach for food throughout the day in an attempt to calm down or feel better? Or more than anything, do you just really crave a better mood? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone! Research has shown that the foods we eat have an impact on mood, proving you really are what you eat. Food can influence your mood – it can make it worse, or it can make it better. Add these good mood foods to your diet for a delicious mood boost! 8 Brain Healthy Foods to Add to Your Shopping List SALMON Omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for brain health and are found in salmon. Your brain needs specific types of essential omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, to function well. These fats are called essential for a reason—our bodies need them, and the only way to get them is through foods or supplements. Most people get far too little omega-3 in their diet. Deficiencies in these vital fatty acids have been shown to be associated with cognitive decline, emotional imbalances and mood issues. TOMATOES Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a nutrient that helps protect vital brain fat and actually stops the buildup of pro-inflammatory compounds linked to low mood. Additionally, they contain high levels of two other mood enhancing nutrients: folate and magnesium. CHILI PEPPERS Researchers have discovered that the brain is filled with receptors for capsaicin, the compound in chili peppers that gives them their heat. When we eat chili peppers, our brain responds by releasing endorphins, which are natural feel-good chemicals – the very same endorphins that are released when we exercise. People who eat spicy foods report a mood-lifting effect similar to the high reported by runners after working out. AVOCADOS Avocados contain good, healthy fats that are known for increasing the levels of several different feel-good chemicals in the brain. Like salmon, avocados are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which help maintain function in areas of the brain responsible for regulating mood and emotion. Healthy fats help you feel full and satisfied, help your body absorb some nutrients, and aid in cholesterol reduction. SPINACH You can give your meal a brain-healthy boost by trading your usual romaine lettuce for spinach in your salad, wrap or sandwich. Per ounce, spinach contains a higher level of folate, a B vitamin that may help reduce symptoms of depression. In fact, researchers at Harvard Medical School found that boosting the folate levels of depressed patients helped improve their mood. POULTRY Poultry is an excellent source for high amounts of tryptophan, an amino acid that your body can’t produce on its own. Tryptophan is necessary for the creation of serotonin, one of the brain’s primary mood-regulating chemicals. As more tryptophan enters the brain, serotonin levels increase and mood tends to improve, which is why poultry is an important part of any good mood diet. GREEN TEA Green Tea is rich in GABA, a calming and stabilizing brain chemical. Low levels of GABA are associated with low moods as well as mood swings. Additionally, it contains L-theanine, which is known for reducing stress and worry while improving mood, focus, memory and mental alertness. Be sure to include a cup of green tea each day for a feeling of overall well-being! DARK CHOCOLATE Have you ever wondered why eating chocolate makes you feel so good? It is not just the taste – it also provides a boost in concentration and mood and actually improves blood flow to the brain. Chocolate contains hundreds of blissful, health-promoting properties that support a positive mood, the ability to think clearly and focus, and a healthy cardiovascular system. The darker the chocolate you consume, the better! Multiple research studies have shown that dark chocolate slows down the production of cortisol, a stress hormone. Furthermore, chocolate also makes the brain release endorphins and boosts serotonin levels, which can create a more positive mood that can last for several hours. If you would like to learn more about how to boost your mood naturally, be sure to visit BrainMDhealth.com, your destination for premium nutrition information for your brain and body! “If you want to feel your best, look your best, and do your best thinking, you have to give your brain high quality nutrition.” – Daniel G. Amen, M.D.
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Feeling Blue About the Passing of Summer?
While warm days may linger for a while, the fact is, summer is officially over. The gradually shorter days of fall and the shift to more time indoors can trigger some physiological changes in the brain, which can affect mood. Specifically, less sunlight may cause a drop in the neurotransmitter serotonin, which in turn, can trigger low mood. Our human physiology is closely connected to the rhythms and cycles of nature! Serotonin is a naturally soothing neurotransmitter produced by our brain throughout life. It plays multiple roles in the brain’s biochemistry and is a critical component in facilitating sustained and deep sleep, maintaining a balanced mood, self-confidence, social engagement, and even supporting healthy appetite. So if you are feeling blue about the passing of summer – or perhaps you simply feel a gnawing sense of anxiety, or worry – supporting healthy and balanced serotonin levels in your body may help. You may be wondering how to do this naturally. Double board-certified psychiatrist, clinical neuroscientist and brain imaging expert, Daniel G. Amen, MD, has something for you to consider. He recommends a combination of healthy lifestyle habits such as daily exercise, consuming “smart” carbohydrates in moderation, and taking a dietary supplement, like Serotonin Mood Support. Serotonin Mood Support is a nutritional supplement designed by Dr. Amen to work through multiple mechanisms to optimize the brain’s serotonin levels in order to create a positive mood state. And it’s completely natural. In this short video, Dr. Amen and BrainMD Health’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Parris Kidd, tell you all about Serotonin Mood Support and how its winning combination of clinically researched ingredients may help lift your mood right away and help you to sail into fall with a positive outlook! While serotonin levels may dip with less exposure to sunlight, many people suffer from low serotonin year round. According to Dr. Amen, if you answer yes to some or all of the following questions, you may have a serotonin issue: Do you worry frequently? Are you rigid? If things don’t go your way, do you get upset? Do you suffer from low mood? Do you have poor sleep? Do you lack craving control? The good news is that the right nutritional support can help. Serotonin Mood Support contains vitamins B6 and B12 to support healthy methyl groups, which help regulate the production of serotonin and many other neurotransmitters. Also included is a superior saffron extract from the Middle East that is well-studied and beneficial for mood management, as well as 5-HTP which, in a number of scientific studies, has been found to help support mood and a sense of relaxation. The bottom line is that Serotonin Mood Support uses multiple mechanisms to support healthy serotonin levels in the brain, naturally. Here’s to a brain healthy, brain happy fall season! [wc_button type="primary" url="https://www.brainmdhealth.com/serotonin-mood-support" title="Order Now" target="self" position="float"]Order Now[/wc_button]
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Brain and Power Supplements
Do you ever go to a health food store and get overwhelmed by the number of different supplements you see? Do you perhaps get overwhelmed by the cost of buying a wide array of nutrients and vitamins to support your brain and body health? You are not alone. Double-board-certified psychiatrist, clinical neuroscientist and brain imaging researcher, Dr. Daniel Amen has gotten overwhelmed too! In fact, that’s why, in large part, he created the BrainMD line of supplements. And it’s definitely why he created Brain and Body Power (and Brain and Body Power Max, with a double boost of key nutrients for brains that need it). “What I did with Brain and Body Power is combine a high quality multiple vitamin, a high-dose, ultra purified fish oil that wouldn’t give me fish burps, and a brain boost supplement that works on your brain in multiple mechanisms—for a lot less money, in two packets,” Dr. Amen explains. In other words, Brain and Body Power provides three extraordinary nutritional supplements in one at a better price. Watch this short video featuring Dr. Amen and BrainMD Health’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Parris Kidd, to learn more about this simple and comprehensive brain and body nutritional support system that will solve the problem. Here’s how it works Brain and Body Power delivers the nutritional basics to support optimal brain and body function in a convenient packet that you take twice daily—and at a better price than if you were to buy all the nutritional supplements separately! Here’s what you get You get the following three top selling BrainMD supplements in every serving of Brain and Body Power and Brain and Body Power Max: NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin A multivitamin like no other! Contains more than 50 vitamin, mineral and plant nutrients in their most active forms, and the only source of Dr. Amen’s proprietary Brain Boosting Blend of clinically researched brain nutrients. Omega-3 Power Contains 1,600 mg of omega-3 fatty acids from a high quality, ultra-purified fish oil source. (Four times the amount of EPA and DHA compared to the average omega-3 sold in the big box stores!) Brain & Memory Power Boost Contains 7 powerful, clinically studied and proven ingredients to support brain health through multiple mechanisms. And for brains that need extra support, Brain and Body Power Max provides the same three supplements in every packet, but with a double dose of Omega-3 Power and extra Brain and Memory Power Boost! Here’s where you can get it: https://www.brainmdhealth.com/brain-and-body-power-max
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Healthy and Not-So-Healthy Ways to Boost Your Energy
Do you feel exhausted all day, even after a full night's sleep? Are you too tired to have fun? We’re constantly on the run, trying to juggle all the things we have to do with all the things we want to do. And in order to make it in today’s fast-paced world, you’ve got to stay focused with plenty of energy – both physical and mental. As our energy levels decrease because of our overstressed lifestyles, many people look for a quick fix to combat fatigue. However, there are good and not-so-good ways to increase your energy! On Wednesday, September 16th, I was featured on The Dr. Oz Show “Energy Pick-Me-Ups That Won’t Make You Crash,” that explored healthy and not-so-healthy ways to boost your energy. As part of the show, Dr. Oz came to Amen Clinics NY for quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) brain scans (a painless and non-invasive procedure) in order to demonstrate the effect caffeine e-cigarettes have on the brain and body. Caffeine e-cigarettes, also known as vaporized caffeine, are a new form of energy stimulant. We used QEEG because it measures the brain’s electrical activity in the form of brainwave patterns, which is an indicator of how your brain cells are communicating, and is used to evaluate brain function. We look at 5 main types of brainwaves: Delta: very slow waves seen mostly during sleep Theta: insight, creativity and daydreaming Alpha: calm and focused Beta: focused High Beta: heightened attention and anxiety Additionally, QEEG can be used to track the changes in brain function from various interventions such as neurofeedback, supplements, medication or, as in the case of Dr. Oz, vaporized caffeine. Dr. Oz underwent one QEEG before smoking the vaporized caffeine to establish his baseline information. Then he underwent another series of them while he smoked vaporized caffeine. The results? The effects of the vaporized caffeine showed lower delta and theta waves (better energy), higher alpha waves (more alert), BUT lower beta waves, which could decrease a person’s judgment. In preparation for filming The Dr. Oz Show, we did preliminary QEEG studies on the effects various commercially available stimulants have on the brain: Energy drinks (containing caffeine and sugar) – Lowered the slow brain waves (delta and theta) which is consistent with better energy. However, the relaxation (alpha) and focus (beta) brain waves were also lowered, which is consistent with a lower sense of peace and concentration. This is definitely not a good idea! Caffeine (from a strong cup of coffee) – Lowered the relaxation (alpha) and focus (beta) waves, which again, is consistent with a lower sense of peace and concentration. This also may not be a great idea for many people. Still think that extra cup of coffee or energy drink is harmless? Think again. Excess, long-term caffeine use is associated with dehydration (which can harm your body in numerous ways), stress on your heart, high blood pressure, sleep issues, moodiness, jitteriness, and headaches, to name a few. Relying on caffeine and energy drinks makes you feel worse in the long run by causing your system to crash, burning out your energy reserve, and constricting your blood vessels (NOT what you want for your brain!) So, we’ve established some of the not-so-good ways to boost your energy. What about the good ways? We also did preliminary QEEG studies on three people to observe the effects of our Focus and Energy supplement from BrainMD Health. Here’s what we found: [wc_box color="secondary" text_align="left"] Patient #1 … Increased focus (beta) brain waves. Patient #2 … Marked reduction in theta waves, which is consistent with better energy and less daydreaming. Patient #3 (Dr. Amen) … I really felt its effects; it lowered sleepy brain waves (delta) and raised my beta and high beta waves, which is consistent with focus. [/wc_box] There are healthy and no-so-healthy ways to boost your energy. From my clinical experience and this small case series, I prefer Focus and Energy (link to the product page). Plus, it is always very important to protect your energy by eating right, getting good sleep, and staying away from things that don't serve your brain, such as caffeine and alcohol. If you want to learn more about improving your energy and having a healthier brain, you can order a copy of my new book, Change Your Brain Change Your Life, Revised and Expanded 2015. Click here for more information. Over the past 25 years, Amen Clinics has helped tens of thousands of people change their brains and their lives! If you feel that you or a loved one could benefit from an evaluation, contact the Amen Clinics Care Center today or call 888-288-9834.
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Benefits of Brain-Directed Herbal Supplements
Dr. Oz did a show on healthy ways to boost your energy and less-than-healthy ways to boost your energy. As part of the show Dr. Oz came to Amen Clinics in Manhattan for brain QEEG brain scans. QEEG measures electrical activity in the brain. We did one at baseline, and another series of them while he was smoking vaporized caffeine, a new form of energy stimulant. The effects of the vaporized caffeine showed lower delta and theta waves (better energy), higher alpha waves (more alert), but lower beta waves, which could decrease judgment. To prepare for the segment, we did preliminary QEEG studies on the effects of various commercially available stimulants on the brain: Energy drinks (caffeine and sugar) … Lowered the slow brain waves (delta and theta) in the brain, consistent with better energy. But they also lowered the relaxation (alpha) and focus (beta) brain waves, consistent with lower sense of peace and concentration. This is definitely not a good idea. Caffeine, from a strong cup of coffee, lowered relaxation (alpha) and focus (beta) waves, consistent with lower sense of peace and concentration. This may not be a great idea for many people. We then did three people on our Focus and Energy supplement from BrainMD. Patient #1 … Increased focus (beta) brain waves. Patient #2 … Marked reduction in theta waves, which is consistent with better energy and less daydreaming. Patient #3 (me) … I really felt its effects, lowered sleepy brain waves (delta) and raised my focus (beta and high beta waves), which is consistent with focus. The real key to boosting your physical and mental energy as well as mental focus, is finding nutritional support that gives, but doesn’t take. The Amen Clinics testing showed multiple benefits from a smartly formulated brain-directed herbal supplement designed to enhance mental focus and energy The supplement is BrainMD Health’s very own Focus and Energy formula. The positive energy and mental focus benefits are not too surprising considering the selection of ingredients were made by Dr. Amen himself based on findings from clinical research. As you will learn in this short video featuring Dr. Amen and BrainMD Health’s Chief Science Officer, Dr. Parris Kidd, Focus and Energy is made up of several potent herbal extracts that support focus and energy naturally through many channels, not just one or two. This is the key to its efficacy and why it benefits so many people, like you, who are seeking a real energy and mental focus boost! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YV0T9XrgMY Focus and Energy Explained Focus and Energy is loaded with a substantial amount of decaffeinated green tea—roughly 600 milligrams! Research shows that green tea catechins boost circulation to the brain. They also support optimal function of the nerve cells. Both are good for optimal mental function. The formula combines several adaptogenic herbs too, which help the body to deal with stress and adjust to change. Who doesn’t need support in combating stress and life’s curve balls? Specifically, Ashwagandha, a long-established Ayurvedic herb, is provided in a highly concentrated, standardized form called Sensoril. It has been clinically studied for its mood- and memory-boosting properties as well as calm support. Also included are the adaptogenic herbs rhodiola and panax ginseng – both very high quality extracts that provide stress support, help to raise brain energy and help the brain and body adjust to the circulation boost from the green tea extract. Last, choline, which is now classified as a vitamin, is included to help regulate overall functioning of the nerve cells. Focus and Energy’s strength and efficacy stem from this unique combination of well-studied herbs and nutrients supporting energy and focus on multiple levels. If you have issues either with your energy or you need to focus so you can perform better, consider skipping the short-term caffeine fix and trying a healthier solution with Focus and Energy.
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BrainMD Health Has Arrived!
“There is no question in my mind that nutraceuticals have powerful, positive effects on your brain. That’s why I started BrainMD Health.” – Daniel G. Amen, MD BrainMD Health has arrived! Founded by board-certified psychiatrist, clinical neuroscientist and brain imaging expert, Dr. Daniel Amen, BrainMD Health (formerly The Amen Solution) offers the very best research-based, brain-directed products to support your memory, mood, focus, stress relief, craving control, energy, sleep, weight – and so much more. BrainMD includes all the same winning formulas many of you have come to know and rely upon under The Amen Solution name, but now with a number of updates based on the very latest research to optimize benefits! Our new BrainMD name more accurately reflects the professionalism and efficacy of our outstanding supplements, and you will find that the vibrant new packaging is simpler and easier to read. On top of that, for regular and new visitors alike, our gorgeous new website incorporates several fresh features to make it easier for you to navigate and use! A few highlights include: Brand new, highly engaging product pages A cutting-edge blog featuring articles and videos with brain health-related information and research The timesaving ability to sign in directly from social networks with a mere click of a button. A new trial program for Brain and Body Power! (coming in October) There’s much more, of course. We encourage you to visit the new website and explore it for yourself! And be sure to check out our FAQs page to answer any questions you may have and get detailed information about the BrainMD Health name and formula changes. But before you do, please view the short video message below from Dr. Amen himself. You’ll discover the origins of BrainMD Health and why Dr. Amen is such a passionate believer in the power of nutritional supplements! The origins of BrainMD truly started in 1989, when Dr. Amen founded the Amen Clinics, a specialized group of psychiatric clinics that use sophisticated brain imaging tools to help guide and personalize treatment for patients. Since that time, Dr. Amen and his colleagues have built the world’s largest database of brain scans related to behavior totaling nearly 115,000 scans on patients from 111 countries! Dr. Amen started to study natural supplements more than 20 years ago because he was often horrified to see the effects some psychiatric medications had on the brain. He found that in his practice, sometimes the very medications intended to help patients made them worse. Through careful research, Dr. Amen discovered natural supplements that supported brain health in powerful ways. But perhaps most moving to him personally was to witness how a nutraceutical program helped his seven-year-old niece “Jennifer” who had been struggling with her schoolwork and emotional outbursts. “When I scanned Jen, she had a brain that was working way too hard,” Dr. Amen recalls. Deciding to forgo stronger prescription medication, Dr. Amen made the radical decision to turn up Jen’s “natural calm button” with the support of nutritional supplements. It worked. She began achieving excellent marks in school and became much more pleasant to be around. Now 20 years later, she just graduated from law school and is getting ready to take the BAR exam. “That experience had a lasting effect on me,” Dr. Amen says. “There is no question in my mind that nutraceuticals have powerful, positive effects on your brain. That’s why I started BrainMD Health.” BrainMD Health leverages everything Dr. Amen and his colleagues have learned at the Amen Clinics to help people just like you have better brains and a lifetime of success. Welcome to BrainMD Health!
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