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This Is How You Can Benefit from Taking BrainMD’s New Quercetin+!
One supplement ingredient that’s gained significant attention in recent years is quercetin. With its multiple positive actions in the human body, it’s easy to see why. Let’s take a closer look at what quercetin is and how taking it can aid your health and well-being. What Is Quercetin? Quercetin is a powerful flavanol that helps maintain oxidative balance within the body. Oxidative stress contributes to a multitude of issues and can negatively impact the lungs, heart, and skin. As we age, reactive oxygen species (ROS) tend to build up, leading to lifestyle-triggered health problems involving the heart and other organs – quercetin may help combat these issues. Since the body can’t effectively synthesize quercetin, it must be obtained from the diet or supplements. Quercetin is found in apples, asparagus, and berries, and is thought to be best absorbed when consumed from onions. Unfortunately, when derived from food, quercetin absorption may be reduced due to limited bioavailability. Formulated with a branded ingredient to help maximize nutrient absorption, BrainMD is proud to offer its new quercetin supplement… Quercetin+ Supercharge your body’s defense systems with Quercetin+. Quercefit®, the branded ingredient in Quercetin+, is the most effective, clinically studied Quercetin Phytosome™, and is considerably more bioavailable than standard quercetin supplements.* Taking Quercetin+ can help: Support circulatory and cardiovascular health* Neutralize free radicals*¹ Strengthen immune function* Boost cellular energy and physical performance* Reduce Lessen inflammation* Aid in better sleep quality* Enhance respiratory health and breathing* Promote healthy aging and vitality* Quercetin+ Ingredient Quercefit® Quercetin Phytosome™ 250 mg Quercefit® Quercetin Phytosome™ – a potent antioxidant flavonoid that supports healthy histamine, inflammatory, and immune responses – also may contribute to healthy aging as well as support heart, lung, and skin health.* In contrast to unbound quercetin, which is often poorly absorbed, this extract of the sophora japonica flower is bound with sunflower-sourced phospholipids, which allows it to pass through the gut lining and enter the blood stream.* This can provide up to 20-times greater bioavailability than standard quercetin products.* Who Can Benefit from Quercetin+? Those looking to improve supportpromote heart health: Quercetin+ can aid in supporting blood vessel health and reducing inflammation; both are crucial in promoting long-term heart health.*² People who want to support their a stronger immune system: Those looking to enhance their immune function can benefit from the immune-modulating properties in Quercetin+.* Individuals seeking to improve betterhelp their lung function: Quercetin+ may help improve with overall lung function by reducing inflammatory responses in the respiratory system.* In a clinical study that assessed respiratory health, Quercefit® reduced daytime symptoms by up to 51% and nighttime symptoms by 70% in individuals with respiratory sensitivities in just 30 days.*³ People looking for better physical performance: Quercetin+ can help enhance physical performance and recovery by supporting cellular energy.* Those seeking robust antioxidant support for healthy aging: As we age, harmful ROS accumulate, contributing to cardiovascular and respiratory issues.* Quercetin helps neutralize ROS by protecting cells, which promotes vitality.* As a potent antioxidant, Quercefit® helps protect the body from oxidative stress, a key contributor to the aging process.* Quercetin+ FAQs [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] How do I take Quercetin+? Adults take 1 capsule daily or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional.* For best results, continue daily use for at least 3 months.* What makes this product different from the competition? The problem with regular quercetin is that it isn’t easily absorbed by your body.* Quercefit® addresses this problem by binding quercetin to sunflower phospholipids.* This makes it much easier for your body to absorb and use quercetin.* How long will it take to see results? Results can vary based on individual health needs. Many people may start noticing benefits like reduced inflammation and better improved respiratory health within 2-4 weeks, with continued improvements in cardiovascular and immune support over 3-6 months.* Can this supplement make me dependent on it, or addicted? No. Like other BrainMD products, this is a dietary supplement, not a drug, and is not habit-forming.* Is this product safe to take during pregnancy? While Quercetin is generally considered safe for most people, its use during pregnancy or when breastfeeding hasn’t been extensively studied. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Quercetin+, or any supplement, during pregnancy or when breastfeeding. Does Quercetin+ contain any allergens? No. Quercetin+ is a natural supplement and is free from added corn, dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, sugar, and yeast. Also, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and doesn’t contain artificial colors or flavors. Can I take Quercetin+ if I’m on blood thinners or other medications? If you’re taking blood thinners like Warfarin, consult your healthcare provider before using Quercetin+.* Quercetin may enhance the effects of blood thinners, which could increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.* Always discuss any new supplement with your doctor, especially if you’re on a medication.* Which other supplements would make this supplement work even better? Quercetin+ pairs well with other foundational supplements, like NeuroVite Plus and Omega-3 Power, for enhanced immune and cardiovascular support.* [/wc_box] "Quercetin+ is a game-changer for immune support and overall health. With its advanced absorption and antioxidant power, it not only helps reduce inflammation but also supports a healthy heart, lungs, and brain.” - Daniel G. Amen, MD Renew from Within with Quercetin Quercetin+ was formulated to help support heart health and boost immunity.* It also helps promote healthy aging by protecting cells from oxidative damage.* Whether you’re feeling run down, dealing with inflammation, or just looking to support your heart, lungs, and brain, Quercetin+ is designed to help you feel stronger, clearer, and more resilient.* Try Quercetin+ today! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Quercetin+ 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. Yang D, Wang T, Long M, Li P. Quercetin: Its Main Pharmacological Activity and Potential Application in Clinical Medicine. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2020 Dec 30;2020:8825387. doi: 10.1155/2020/8825387. PMID: 33488935; PMCID: PMC7790550. 2. Zhang W, Zheng Y, Yan F, Dong M, Ren Y. Research progress of quercetin in cardiovascular disease. Front Cardiovasc Med. 2023 Nov 16;10:1203713. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1203713. PMID: 38054093; PMCID: PMC10694509. 3. Cesarone MR, Belcaro G, Hu S et al. Supplementary prevention and management of asthma with quercetin phytosome: a pilot registry. Minerva Med 2019;110:524-9.
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5 of the Best Ways to Take Care of Your Brain
Your brain is the most complex machine in the universe. No one knows exactly how complex the brain is, but some scientists have estimated you have more neurons in your brain than there are stars in the Milky Way Galaxy. Just like you’d protect a smartphone, tablet, or laptop (which are far less precious), it’s vitally important that you do everything possible to protect the powerful processor between your ears. There are many practical ways you can safeguard your brain, like wearing a seat belt when you’re in a car and a helmet while riding a bike. Though such tips would seem to be no-brainers, it’s amazing how many people fail to put their brain first as they go about their daily life. 5 of the Best Ways to Take Care of Your Brain Drink More Water Every system in the human body needs water to function. Your brain is 80% water,¹ so avoid anything that dehydrates it – such as caffeine or alcohol. Being dehydrated by just 2% may impair performance in tasks that require attention, immediate memory skills, and physical performance. Get Regular Exercise Physical activity is perhaps the single most important thing you can do to keep your brain healthy. Exercise can boost blood flow and other positive nutrients to the brain, increase your levels of dopamine and generate new brain cells that can help the brain self-regulate and calm down. Walking can help you clear your mind, decrease feelings of anxiousness, improve your mood,² and burn some calories all at the same time. Eat a Healthy Diet Proper nutrition is essential to peak brain function. A healthy diet should include lean protein, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats such as olive oil. It’s recommended that you eat 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. To help with your meal planning, there are many healthy and delicious recipes in The Brain Warrior’s Way Cookbook. Quality Sleep Getting at least 7 hours of sleep a night³ has been shown to help your brain function at optimal levels. When you don’t get enough sleep, you have overall decreased blood flow to your brain, which can disrupt thinking, memory, and concentration. Just Relax From time to time, all of us need to recharge our batteries and self-care is key to physical and mental health. Learning how to counteract stress and calm your body can help your brain work better, put you in a better mood, reduce blood pressure, and protect you from major illnesses. If you don’t protect your brain, you might be putting yourself at great risk. However, if you take care of your brain, it will take care of you. One of the best ways you can care for your brain is by taking healthy, high-potency supplements. And don’t worry, your days of fussing with bottles or a weekly vitamin organizer are over. BrainMD offers ultra-pure, brain-directed supplements in a convenient packet. We’ve developed 2 unique supplement packet options to fit your on-the-go lifestyle: Best Supplements to Help Protect Your Brain Brain & Body Power Brain & Body Power is a superior supplement system that was designed for essential everyday performance. It’s a powerful daily regimen of 3 essential supplements for brain, memory, and body health.* Plus, you’ll save up to $50 compared to buying them all individually! Each daily pack contains: Brain & Memory Power Boost (2 capsules): Our bestselling, brain-boosting formula provides potent ingredients to support the brain’s energy, connectivity, and memory performance.* NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin (2 capsules): This powerful combination of 50 vitamins, minerals and plant extracts (all in their most active forms for optimal bioavailability) is foundational to your supplement regimen.* Omega-3 Power (1 capsule): Omega-3 Power provides a high dose of omega-3 fatty acids and is unique in that it is screened for over 250 potential contaminants to ensure maximum purity.* Here’s what others are saying about Brain & Body Power: "I noticed a difference over a short period of time in my ability to recall information and mental clarity. I’m also overall in a better mood when taking these vitamins.” -Tim Brain & Body Power MAX Brain & Body Power MAX contains the same supplements found in Brain & Body Power but adds more capsules for larger doses of the nutrients you need to maintain an active lifestyle. Brain & Body Power MAX is recommended for those who are interested in a truly powerful dietary supplement for their brains with added memory support.* It provides your brain and the rest of your body with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, botanical extracts, and neuro-nutrients – all at advanced levels.* Each packet contains: Brain & Memory Power Boost (3 capsules): This brain-boosting formula will provide you with an all-star lineup of high-quality ingredients to promote your mental sharpness, so you can think fast on your feet all day.* NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin (2 capsules): NeuroVite Plus is the only source of Dr. Daniel Amen’s proprietary Brain Boosting Blend of brain-supporting nutrients. Omega-3 Power (2 capsules): Healthy brains and hearts require plenty of omega-3s to operate at peak performance, and Omega-3 Power is an excellent way to get them at a much higher potency than standard fish oil products.* Here’s what others are saying about Brain & Body Power MAX: "This is a great product. I love the pre-packaged convenience of all the nutrients my body needs. I appreciate having a pure product without extra fillers. My overall health and well being feels more balanced than ever since taking Brain & Body Power Max!” -Donna 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. MacAulay, N. (2021). Molecular mechanisms of brain water transport. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 22(6), 326–344. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41583-021-00454-8 2. Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021, March 19). Exercise and stress: Get moving to manage stress. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469 3. Olson, E. J. (2023, March 1). How many hours of sleep are enough? Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough/faq-20057898
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Here's What You Should Know About Low and High FODMAP Foods
Digestive distress is no fun, and if you suffer from it, you’re hardly alone. According to the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), 60-70 million Americans suffer from GI issues that can seriously impact their quality of life. (1) AGA’s data shows that nearly 40% of Americans have stopped routine activities in the last year due to annoying, uncomfortable, and – in some cases – debilitating symptoms. (2) Digestive symptoms aren’t always easy to treat because they’re so diverse and manifest differently in different people. They range from relatively common symptoms like bloating and gas, to much more serious ones like blood in the stool. To further complicate matters, many symptoms can be consistent with a wide range of possible causes, ranging from minor food intolerances to colorectal complications. (3) What’s more, these symptoms aren’t easy to talk about. One in three people said they would only discuss their bowel symptoms if their doctor brought it up first. The AGA recently launched an awareness campaign called Trust Your Gut, aimed at shortening the time between having bowel symptoms and actually talking about them with your doctor. (4) This article isn’t about GI health in general – that would take a book to discuss adequately. But it is about a particular intervention that many have found helpful (at least in the short-term). That intervention is a low-FODMAP diet. Bacteria and Your Gut To understand why some health practitioners recommend low-FODMAP diets (don’t worry, I’ll define what they are shortly), it’s helpful to understand something about bacteria and your gut. The human body has about 30 trillion cells, but we also host trillions of non-human cells as well. The most current research estimates that there are 39 of these non-human cells (viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other assorted microbes), about 1.3 times the number of human ones. The name scientists give for that group of microbes is the microbiome, (5) and it’s been an exploding topic of research for over a decade. The cells of the microbiome live mainly in the gut, specifically in the large intestine. Many articles and books have been devoted to explaining how important the health of the microbiome is and detailing ways that we humans can keep it healthy. (6) In fact, the health of the microbiome has been linked to many serious health conditions. (7) But sometimes microbes get into places they don’t belong, for example, the small intestine. If bacteria that doesn’t belong gets into the small intestine and starts to set up shop there, digestive symptoms almost always appear. In fact, there’s now a name for this condition: it’s called SIBO which stands for small intestine bacterial overgrowth. (8) And it can be maddening. Enter low-FODMAP diets. What Are FODMAPs and Should I Eat Low or High FODMAP Foods? Low-FODMAP diets have been found to relieve symptoms of both SIBO and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (for those who like to nerd out, saccharides are sugars and polyols are sugar alcohols). Foods that contain these compounds are believed to act as prebiotics, which means they “feed” the bacteria that set up residence in the small intestine. (9) A low-FODMAP diet is essentially a symptom-reduction strategy based on starving them out! But there are a couple of problems and cautions. Problem #1: Foods that contain FODMAPs are not bad foods, at least not always. In fact, some of them – like, for example, onions and garlic – are extraordinarily healthy foods. Their only “crime” is to provide food for bacteria that we want to get rid of (or at least remove from the small intestine). This is one reason low-FODMAP diets aren’t recommended long-term. The foods that contain FODMAPs may indeed feed the bacteria in the small intestine, but they also provide nourishment to the “good guy” bacteria in the large intestine, which is why you don’t want to keep them out of your diet forever. At least two studies have demonstrated that being on a long-term, low-FODMAP diet can reduce the levels of beneficial bacteria in the gut (colon). Problem #2: There are an awful lot of foods that contain FODMAPs. Patients put on these diets often say, “There’s nothing left to eat!” which isn’t quite true – but it’s easy to see how people could feel that way. That said, a low-FODMAP diet does offer symptom relief in the short term, and most practitioners will begin to reintroduce FODMAP-containing foods once symptoms are alleviated. Johns Hopkins Medicine characterizes a low-FODMAP diet as a three-step elimination diet: The first step is eliminating foods high in FODMAPs (see accompanying list). This phase is recommended for between 2-6 weeks max. Then start slowly reintroducing these foods, usually one at a time, and observe carefully which ones are problematic for you. Finally, avoid the ones that cause symptoms and go back to eating those that don’t. Symptoms that typically improve on a low-FODMAP diet include cramping, gas, flatulence, bloating, and diarrhea. In one study, low-FODMAP diets reduced the severity of symptoms in over 75% of patients with IBS (compared to a 54% reduction in patients receiving standard dietary advice). Functional medicine expert Chris Kressler, LaC, reports that he’s found low-FODMAP diets to be useful in patients with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulosis. [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] What About Fiber? One of the most common issues on a low FODMAP diet is the fact that so many of the restricted foods are important sources of fiber. So, how does a person on a low-FODMAP plan supplement their fiber intake without producing the very symptoms we’re trying to get rid of, like bloating and gas? Fortunately, there’s an easy solution to this problem: partially hydrolyzed guar gum fiber, which is found in hundreds of supplements and food products and doesn’t cause bloating or gas. You can buy it in the store or online under the name SunFiber, which was the first prebiotic soluble fiber supplement to be low-FODMAP diet approved by Monash University. (10) [/wc_box] Foods that are typically restricted are wheat, beans, onions, garlic and milk; they’re typically replaced with low-FODMAP alternatives such as potatoes, rice, zucchini, and lactose-free dairy. Though the complete list of foods high in FODMAPS is dauntingly long, Johns Hopkins Medicine sums up the most important foods to avoid: Dairy-based milk, yogurt, and ice cream Wheat-based products such as cereal, bread, and crackers Beans and lentils Some vegetables, such as artichokes, asparagus, onions, and garlic Some fruits, such as apples, cherries, pears, and peaches Instead, they suggest you base your meals around low FODMAP foods such as: Eggs and meat Certain cheeses such as brie, Camembert, cheddar, and feta Almond milk Grains like rice, quinoa, and oats Vegetables like eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and zucchini Fruits such as grapes, oranges, strawberries, blueberries, and pineapple Note that wheat is eliminated not because of gluten, but because wheat is high in fructans, a member of the oligosaccharide family. Nonetheless, it’s probably a good idea to eliminate gluten in general during the restrictive phase of the diet, as gluten can be inflammatory for many people. The good news is that once you reintroduce one or two members of a category of FODMAPs (like fructooligosacchardies for example) and find that everything’s okay, you can usually reintroduce all the other members of that particular category of foods without testing each of them. Then you can move on to the next category. Though you can do a low-FODMAP diet on your own, it’s a great idea to do it under the guidance of a nutritionist or nutritionally educated health professional. Eliminating all these foods can be complicated and challenging, and identifying the ones that are causing symptoms can be a bit of a task. A health professional who specializes in gut and digestive issues can be your best friend during this period. [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] Low-FODMAP Diets and Sugar Perhaps surprisingly, many common sugars (including cane sugar, raw sugar, and brown sugar,) are low FODMAP. That, however, doesn’t make them healthy. Though they may not trigger symptoms directly, they still raise blood sugar and insulin and can cause metabolic havoc. There is, however, one little-known sugar that is low-FODMAP diet certified: allulose. Allulose is considered a “rare sugar” – it exists in nature and is found in figs, raisins, and molasses, among other foods. There is a ton of published research on allulose, and it’s endorsed by many of the leading lights in the field of metabolic health, including Drs. Benjamin Britten and David Perlmutter. Allulose doesn’t raise blood sugar or insulin, and has been shown in research to lower both insulin resistance and blood sugar. It’s available in stores all over the country. Look for allSweet on the ingredient label. [/wc_box] 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. Gibson PR, Shepherd SJ. Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2010;25(2):252-258. 2. Staudacher HM, Whelan K. The low FODMAP diet: recent advances in understanding its mechanisms and efficacy in IBS. Gut. 2017;66(8):1517-1527. 3. Halmos EP, Power VA, Shepherd SJ, et al. A diet low in FODMAPs reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Gastroenterology. 2014;146(1):67-75. 4. Kressler C. The benefits of low FODMAP diets in chronic digestive disorders. J Integr Med. 2020;18(3):151-157. 5. Zhao Q, Stokholm J, Højland Ersbøll A, et al. Microbiome and metabolome profiles in pregnancy and later childhood are associated with childhood cognitive performance. eLife. 2021;10. 6. Pritchard S, Peppercorn MA. Advances in understanding of the microbiome and its effects on health. BMJ. 2017;356. 7. Gibson PR, Halmos EP, Muir JG. Review article: FODMAPs, prebiotics and gut health—the FODMAP hypothesis revisited. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2020;52(2):233-246. 8. Heaton KW, Parker D, Cripps H, et al. Diverticular disease and SIBO: causes and symptoms. Gastroenterology. 2015;149(2):273-280. 9. Jones A, Kressler C. The FODMAP elimination and reintroduction process. Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2019;21(2):56. 10. Chumpitazi BP, Cope JL, Hollister EB, et al. Gut microbiota modulation with partially hydrolysed guar gum vs low FODMAP diet. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2019;49(6):673-682.
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What You Need to Know About BrainMD’s New Glutathione Supplement!
If you’re looking to support your physical and physiological function over the long haul, it’s crucial that your body has sufficient antioxidant defense against free radical activity. Getting enough antioxidants to help counterbalance free radicals and oxidative stress¹ in the body is a vital way to promote health and wellness. One antioxidant you should make sure you’re getting enough of is glutathione. What is Glutathione? Glutathione is an essential antioxidant produced naturally within the body. It’s known as the “master antioxidant” because it helps protect cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Produced by the liver, glutathione is a substance made from cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. It’s involved in building and repairing tissues, making proteins, and supporting immune function, which it does by aiding in the repair and regeneration of damaged cells. Glutathione also plays an important role in detoxification. It helps the liver remove harmful substances (such as toxins and heavy metals) from the body. Eating foods rich in its precursors (cysteine and glycine) – such as eggs, garlic, and onions – can help support glutathione production in the body. However, since some people struggle to absorb the recommended levels of glutathione from their foods, many have turned to high-quality glutathione supplements to help fill this nutrient gap. Supplementing with glutathione may be especially important for the middle-aged and elderly since glutathione levels tend to decrease as the body ages, which may lead to certain illnesses and health problems. Providing ultra-pure, science-backed nutrition, BrainMD is proud to offer its newest antioxidant powerhouse… Glutathione Supercharge your body’s natural detox pathways, support brain health, and strengthen immunity with the potent antioxidant, glutathione.* Taking BrainMD’s Glutathione can help: Support detoxification* Neutralize free radicals for cellular protection* Protect the immune system* Enhance cognitive function* Promote healthy aging by protecting against oxidative damage* Boost energy levels* Glutathione Ingredient Setria® L-Glutathione reduced 250 mg Setria® Glutathione is a patented, clinically studied form of reduced glutathione known for its superior bioavailability and absorption.* Unlike other forms of glutathione, Setria® is produced through a unique fermentation process that preserves its bioactive properties, ensuring maximum potency and effectiveness while eliminating any risk of Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy (TSE) contamination.* This superior form of glutathione offers reliable cellular protection for healthy aging, significant immune system and detoxification support, and unmatched antioxidant protection.* Who Can Benefit from Setria® Glutathione? Those seeking protection from oxidative stress: Everyday activities create harmful free radicals that can damage cells and speed up aging.* Setria® Glutathione helps neutralize these free radicals which helps reduce oxidative stress and regenerate essential antioxidants like vitamins C and E.* Those looking to detoxify their system: Setria® Glutathione helps detoxify your body in two key ways: eliminating absorbed toxins through the liver, kidneys, and GI tract, and neutralizing harmful toxins in the gut before they enter your system.* Those who want to supercharge their immunity: Setria® Glutathione strengthens white blood cell function² and boosts natural killer cell activity to enhance immune defense.* Those looking to slow the effects of aging: As you age, your body’s production of glutathione declines, leaving you more vulnerable to fatigue, toxins, and oxidative stress. Setria® Glutathione helps fuel your body’s natural defenses to support your immune system and reduce cell death³, so you can stay strong and resilient.* Glutathione FAQs [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] How do I take Glutathione? Take 1-2 capsules daily in the morning, or as directed by your healthcare professional. For optimal results, continue daily use for at least 3 months. What makes this product different from the competition? Setria® is a patented, clinically studied form of glutathione that’s effective at raising and maintaining glutathione levels in the body.* Regular glutathione can be poorly absorbed, but Setria® provides superior absorption and longer-lasting effects.* Can this supplement make me dependent on it, or addicted? No. Like other BrainMD products, this is a dietary supplement, not a drug, and is not habit-forming.* Is this product safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding? While Glutathione is generally considered safe for most people, its use during pregnancy and while breastfeeding has not been extensively studied. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking Glutathione or any supplement during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Does Glutathione contain any allergens? No. Glutathione is a natural supplement and is free from corn, dairy, eggs, soy, nuts, sugar, and yeast. Also, it’s vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, and doesn’t contain artificial colors or flavors. Which other supplements would make this Glutathione work even better? For even greater benefits, it’s recommended to combine Glutathione with NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin and Neuro-C Vitamin C for enhanced immune function, antioxidant defense, and longevity.* [/wc_box] Make Glutathione Your Own Setria® Glutathione is clinically studied to elevate your glutathione levels more effectively than other glutathione supplements.* This powerful antioxidant works behind the scenes to detoxify your body, slow down the effects of aging, and give your immune system the boost it needs to keep you healthy and resilient.* With Setria® Glutathione, you can restore your body’s defenses and feel energized, strong, and youthful every day.* Try BrainMD’s Glutathione today! Note: As with any dietary supplement, be sure to consult with your healthcare practitioner before beginning any wellness regimen, especially if you’re currently taking any medications. 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. Sekhar RV, Patel SG, Guthikonda AP, et al. Deficient synthesis of glutathione underlies oxidative stress in aging and can be corrected by dietary cysteine and glycine supplementation. Am J Clin Nutr. 2011 Sep;94(3):847-53. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.110.003483. Epub 2011 Jul 27. PMID: 21795440; PMCID: PMC3155927. 2. Richie, J.P., Nichenametla, S., Neidig, W. et al. Randomized controlled trial of oral glutathione supplementation on body stores of glutathione. Eur J Nutr 54, 251–263 (2015). 3. Sastre, J., Pallardó, F.V. & Viña, J. Glutathione, oxidative stress and aging. AGE 19, 129–139 (1996).
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What is BPH and What Foods Can Help?
If you’re a middle-aged man, you might be making multiple trips to the bathroom each night. One common culprit of nightly urination (nocturia)¹ for many men is an enlarged prostate. But what exactly is the prostate, and why does it often become enlarged as men get older? Prostate Issues Found only in men, the prostate is a gland that sits just below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body. About the size of a walnut, the prostate’s main function is to produce seminal fluid. As a man ages, it’s common for his prostate to become enlarged due to hormonal changes, often leading to issues with urination. If left untreated, prostate problems can increase your risk of developing other conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney damage, or BPH. What Is BPH? An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), occurs when the cells in the prostate gland multiply at an abnormal rate. Although the exact cause of BPH is unknown, there are several factors that can contribute to its development. Age is one of the biggest risk factors for developing an enlarged prostate. As men age, their testosterone levels may decrease while their estrogen levels can increase, leading to cell growth in the prostate gland. Family history also may play a role in creating prostate problems as genetics can influence a man’s likelihood of developing BPH. Other contributing factors include lifestyle choices such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Being overweight or maintaining a sedentary lifestyle also may lead to an increased risk of getting BPH.² Additionally, medications used to treat high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, and mood issues may worsen symptoms or cause urinary retention. Standard BPH Treatment Treatment for an enlarged prostate may vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, your doctor may simply monitor your symptoms and recommend lifestyle changes such as limiting fluids or avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bedtime. For moderate to severe cases, medication may be prescribed to help shrink the prostate gland or relax muscles in the bladder and prostate. Alpha-blockers, such as tamssulosin (Flomax) or terazosin (Hytrin), are commonly used to help relax the muscle fibers that tighten around the urethra. Other medications, like dutasteride (Avodart) and finasteride (Propecia), help block the hormones that can cause prostate enlargement. In cases where medication is ineffective, surgery, such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP),³ may be recommended. If the thought of taking medications or undergoing a medical procedure isn’t your first choice, there may be certain natural interventions that can help your situation. Making healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercising regularly and getting quality rest, may help reduce the chances of developing BPH and other prostate/urinary issues. In addition to these lifestyle measures, getting the right nutrients through diet and supplements can help support the prostate and relieve BPH symptoms. Here are just a few prostate-promoting nutrients you should consider getting via foods each day. 3 of the Best Foods to Help Relieve Symptoms of BPH [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] Avocados Avocados offer both healthy fat and fiber, which can help support blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy. Much of an avocado’s fat is oleic acid, a monosaturated fat also present in olive oil, which may be responsible for some of its health benefits. Avocados are rich in beta-sitosterol,⁴ a plant-derived nutrient that may help reduce BPH issues. Though the effectiveness of beta-sitosterol supplements hasn’t been validated,⁵ eating foods rich in this plant sterol may help relieve BPH symptoms. These foods include: Pecans Pumpkin seeds Wheat germ Leafy Green Vegetables Dark, leafy greens are packed with nutrients that can help improve your health. They’re loaded with vitamins and minerals, and contain high levels of fiber which can help regulate digestion and elimination. Also, they’re low in carbohydrates, which makes them a great option for people with blood sugar issues. Some of the healthiest leafy greens are: Kale Spinach Swiss chard Collard greens Mustard greens Since they’re rich in antioxidants, introducing a variety of leafy greens into your diet may be an important step toward relieving BPH issues. Tomatoes There’s a reason for the tomato’s bright red coloring…it’s loaded with lycopene. This bright-colored carotenoid may help lower the risk of developing prostate issues and slow the progression of BPH.⁶ Other foods rich in lycopene are: Apricots Papaya Pink grapefruit Watermelon [/wc_box] Schedule Regular Check-ups An enlarged prostate is a common condition that affects many men as they age. Scheduling regular check-ups with your doctor is a smart way to maintain good prostate health. Men over 50 should discuss risk factors for developing prostate problems and get regular blood work, including a PSA test, if recommended by their doctor. Though BPH often can be addressed with lifestyle modifications, some cases may require additional steps to help manage the issue. Early detection and treatment can help relieve symptoms and prevent complications down the road, so don’t delay in reaching out to a trained medical professional if you’re having urinary or prostate problems. 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. Cleveland Clinic. (n.d.). Nocturia: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis & treatment. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/14510-nocturia 2. Harvard Health Publishing. (n.d.). Prostate health. Harvard Medical School. Retrieved [Date you accessed the page], from https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/prostate-health 3. Nall, R. (2016, December 19). Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Healthline. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://www.healthline.com/health/transurethral-resection-of-the-prostate 4. Penugonda, K., & Lindshield, B. L. (2013). Fatty acid and phytosterol content of commercial saw palmetto supplements. Nutrients, 5(9), 3617–3633. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu5093617 5. Mayo Clinic Staff. (n.d.). Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) – Diagnosis and treatment. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved November 15, 2024, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/benign-prostatic-hyperplasia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20370093 6. Schwarz, S., Obermüller-Jevic, U. C., Hellmis, E., Koch, W., Jacobi, G., & Biesalski, H.-K. (2008). Lycopene inhibits disease progression in patients with benign prostate hyperplasia. The Journal of Nutrition, 138(1), 49–53. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/138.1.49
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These Are the Best Ways to Boost Your Happiness Neurotransmitters
Do you ever feel emotional or irritable for no reason? What about feeling anxious or worried? Do you struggle with being unfocused? All these can be linked to neurotransmitter levels being out of whack. Proper neurotransmitter balance is absolutely essential for optimal brain function. (1) What Are the Happiness Neurotransmitters? Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers released from neurons so that they can communicate to neighboring cells throughout your brain and body. While the exact number is not known, there are well over 100 neurotransmitters. (2) Here are the functions of three major "happiness neurotransmitters:" SEROTONIN Serotonin is known as the “don’t worry, be happy” soothing neurotransmitter. It plays multiple roles in the brain’s biochemistry including: Facilitating sustained and deep sleep (3) Maintaining a balanced mood (4) Boosting self-confidence and social engagement (5) Supporting a healthy appetite (6) Decreasing worries and concerns (7) Additionally, serotonin is associated with learning and memory. (8) Interestingly, although serotonin is manufactured in the brain, where it performs its primary functions, it is estimated that about 90% of our serotonin supply is found in the digestive tract and in blood platelets. (9) DOPAMINE Often called the “motivation molecule,” dopamine provides the drive and focus you need to be productive. Dopamine delivers a sense of satisfaction in our mind after accomplishing a task. It also is released when playing sports, learning something new, finishing a task or project, or getting the big promotion you wanted at work. (10) It is heavily involved with: Attention span (11) Focus (12) Follow-through (13) Motivation (14) Motor movements (15) The ability to experience pleasure (16) GAMMA-AMINOBUTYRIC ACID (GABA) GABA is an amino acid that also functions as a neurotransmitter that is considered the brain’s main “calming” neurotransmitter. It is essential for brain metabolism and works to decrease neuronal activity and inhibit nerve cells from excess firing. (17) Although GABA’s primary responsibility is to help regulate the activity of neurons, it is also very important for the maturation of new nerve cells (neurogenesis). (18) In addition, GABA has mild relaxation properties and can enhance mood and support sleep. (19) Better Brain Chemistry = Better Quality of Life Since your brain and life are inseparably linked, when your neurotransmitters are out of balance, you may experience difficulties in school, at work, at home, in relationships, or emotionally within yourself. The brain is constantly seeking to keep itself balanced through increasing or decreasing amounts of these substances. (20) NeuroLink BrainMD’s NeuroLink supports a diverse array of such key transmitters as adrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and glutamate.* NeuroLink provides an exclusive blend of nutrients that can help you maintain a positive mood, keep your focus, and deal with stressful challenges by helping your neurotransmitters stay in balance.* NeuroLink delivers powerful brain-balancing ingredients: 5-HTP – In the brain, 5-HTP is readily converted to serotonin to help maintain mental and emotional well-being, reduce anxious feelings, and promote calm and relaxation.* GABA – This amino acid regulates excitability of nerve circuits in the brain and is considered the brain’s main calming neurotransmitter.* Taurine – Taurine, an amino acid that helps stabilize our nerve cell electrical activity, is known to enhance GABA’s calming effects.* Tyrosine – Tyrosine is required for the production of the neurotransmitter dopamine.* Having sufficient tyrosine in the brain promotes mental clarity in dealing with stress.* Here's what others are saying about NeuroLink: [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] “NeuroLink helped me feel a better sense of well-being. Great product! It helped me feel more emotionally balanced, calmer dealing with stress and my mood is better.” - Shirley “No more feelings of 'fly off the handle' impatience and instant anger. Wow. Thank you. I got my life back.” - Paris [/wc_box] Mental strain can change your brain. NeuroLink can help change it back.* When your happiness neurotransmitters are balanced, you can think more clearly, feel happier, and experience greater well-being.* Let NeuroLink support balance in YOUR brain!* Now available in capsule and powder form. Try it today! At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about NeuroLink 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. Young SN. How to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs. J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2007;32(6):394-399. 2. Purves D, Augustine GJ, Fitzpatrick D, et al. Neuroscience. 5th edition. Sunderland (MA): Sinauer Associates; 2012. 3. Berger M, Gray JA, Roth BL. The expanded biology of serotonin. Annu Rev Med. 2009;60:355-366. 4. Meyer JH, McMain S, Kennedy SH, et al. Dysfunctional attitudes and serotonin synthesis in unmedicated depression. Am J Psychiatry. 2003;160(4):883-885. 5. Panksepp J. Affective neuroscience: The foundations of human and animal emotions. Oxford University Press; 1998. 6. Nemeroff CB. The neurobiology of depression. Sci Am. 1998;278(6):42-49. 7. Young SN. Serotonin’s role in anxiety. J Psychiatry Neurosci. 2007;32(6):394-399. 8. Dunlop BW, Nemeroff CB. The role of serotonin in mood disorders. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2007;64(3):327-337. 9. Berger M, Gray JA, Roth BL. Serotonin in the gut and its systemic effects. Annu Rev Med. 2009;60:355-366. 10. Montague PR, Hyman SE, Cohen JD. Computational roles for dopamine in behavioural control. Nature. 2004;431(7010):760-767. 11. Grace AA. Dopamine system dysregulation by the hippocampus: implications for the pathophysiology and treatment of schizophrenia. Neuropharmacology. 2016;107:126-135. 12. Farrant M, Nusser Z. Variations on an inhibitory theme: phasic and tonic activation of GABA(A) receptors. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2005;6(3):215-229. 13. Panksepp J. The Foundations of Human Emotions. Oxford University Press; 1998. 14. Erickson KI, Gildengers AG, Butters MA. Physical activity and brain plasticity in late adulthood. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2013;15(1):99-108. 15. Maddock RJ, Buonocore MH. MR spectroscopic studies of the brain in psychiatric disorders. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2010;4:199-251. 16. Grace AA. The Role of Dopamine in Motivation. Neuropharmacology. 2016;107:126-135. 17. Farrant M, Nusser Z. GABA(A) Receptors and Brain Function. Nat Rev Neurosci. 2005;6(3):215-229. 18. Huang Y, Ferrell JE Jr. Ultrasensitivity in the Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Cascade. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1996;93(19):10078-10083. 19. Maddock RJ, Buonocore MH. The Role of GABA in the Brain. Curr Top Behav Neurosci. 2010;4:199-251. 20. Panksepp J. Neurotransmitter Balance and Emotional Well-being. Oxford University Press; 1998.
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How to Increase Your Happiness and Give Yourself More Grace
Do you worry that you’ll never be happy again? Maybe you feel stuck in a dead-end job, or you’re dealing with relationship issues. Or, perhaps spending a year at home has drained your energy and enthusiasm. There’s no doubt that the world is full of things that can steal your happiness. With so many external pressures, it can be easy to blame other people or circumstances for the misfortunes in your life. But here’s a question: how often do you sabotage your own happiness? Maybe you tend to see the glass as half empty or struggle with negative thoughts. Aside from causing you to feel dissatisfied with your life, depressive thoughts can reinforce feelings of unhappiness. How can you improve your situation so you can feel happy again? A big step is to identify what’s making you unhappy so you can take steps to break free from it. Things That Can Steal Your Joy & How to Fix Them Negative Thoughts Habitual, negative self-talk trains the brain to see things pessimistically. Negative thinking can effectively rewrite your neural networks,¹ reinforcing pathways in the brain that make it more likely you’ll have a gloomy outlook. Additionally, having persistent negative thoughts can reduce brain activity related to self-control, judgment, and planning. This can lead to harmful behaviors and poor decisions. Dr. Daniel Amen refers to these as automatic negative thoughts (ANTs). ANTs can cause your brain to release chemicals able to make you feel awful. The opposite is also true – positive, happy, hopeful thoughts release chemicals that help make you feel good. Take captive every negative thought that enters your mind and ask yourself if it’s true. If it isn’t, disregard it. Over time, you can recondition your mind to filter out negative thoughts, which should also help increase your happiness. Expectations Has there ever been a time in your life when your perfect plan suddenly went down the drain? If you’re like most people, this has happened to you repeatedly in life. It’s natural to be temporarily frustrated by such setbacks before moving on with your life. But some people set expectations for nearly everything in their life to protect them from possible negative outcomes. These behaviors might be motivated by internal insecurities or a desire to control people or circumstances. It’s been said (in A.A. meetings and elsewhere) that expectations are premeditated resentments. Having expectations of others (a spouse, friend, family member, etc.) is like setting a trap for them, and when they don’t do what you expect or want, you trigger the “Why didn’t you ____?” landmine. Expecting people to guess what you want can wreak havoc in relationships. It’s great when others can anticipate your needs, but most people are too busy to do it effectively, and no one can read minds. It’s important to speak up about what you need, rather than remaining silent and holding a grudge when others fail to act in the way you want them to. Having expectations of a situation or another person can make you miserable, especially when they don’t live up to your preconceived or idealistic notions of how they should respond or behave. Expectations can lead to resentments, disrupt connections with others, and interfere with personal growth. Of course, some of the worst expectations are the ones you place on yourself. Did you expect to get your degree 10 years ago? Did you expect to be married 5 years ago? Over time, the emotional weight of such expectations can become unbearable and steal your happiness. Perfectionism You may pride yourself on having high standards, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, if you’re the type who’s so focused on getting every little detail just right, you’re sure to be disappointed with many aspects of life. The perfectionist’s paradox is that you may feel superior for having lofty goals but feel inferior when you fail to attain them. Here are 3 common types of perfectionism: [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] Socially prescribed perfectionism – the belief that other people will only value you if you’re perfect Other-oriented perfectionism – demanding perfection from others Self-oriented perfectionism – an internal desire to achieve perfection [/wc_box] All types can be detrimental, but socially prescribed perfectionism can be potentially harmful and even fatal. 5 Ways Perfectionism Can Disrupt Your Life + Helpful Tips 1. Unrealistic Goals Perfectionists tend to set extremely high goals, which might be unattainable. They may fail to reach their goals or give up due to fear of failure. Either way, they might buckle under the incredible pressure they’ve placed on themselves. Helpful Tip: Set Realistic Goals Goal-setting isn’t a vague idea of something you’d like to obtain at some undetermined point in the future. Write down your specific goals in a calendar and then review them every day to make progress toward completing them. Success can come much easier when you make small, manageable goals. Setting realistic goals, that you can focus on daily, can help reduce stress and make a significant difference in your outlook on life. 2. Toxic Thinking Perfectionists are often filled with ANTs, especially All-or-Nothing ANTs (thinking of things as being either all good or all bad) or Just the Bad ANTs (seeing only the bad in a situation). For example, if you need to create a multimedia presentation for work, unless it’s the best one ever created, you may think it’s a tragic failure (All-or-Nothing ANTs). Helpful Tip: Kill the ANTs Learning to challenge the All-or-Nothing or Just the Bad ANTs that infest your brain can help you accept that doing the best you can is far better than trying to be perfect and never completing anything. As Winston Churchill said, “Perfection is the enemy of progress.” You can disinfect your thoughts by exterminating the ANTs that steal your happiness. Whenever you feel sad, mad, nervous, or stressed, write down what you’re thinking and then challenge that ANT. When you stop believing every fearful thought you have, you can start to regain control of your life. 3. Procrastination Perfectionism often leads to paralyzing procrastination. For example, while trying to write a presentation for work or a paper for school, you may feel like you can’t start writing until you’ve looked up more sources, interviewed more people, and come up with an amazing introduction. Before you know it, it’s the night before the deadline, and you need to crank out something to avoid being late. Now you’re kicking yourself for letting it slide for so long. Once again, you may feel like a failure. Helpful Tip: Prioritize Your Life Don’t wait for everything to be absolutely perfect before you dive into a project. Remember, it’s okay to get started now and incorporate additional materials as you go. If working on all your projects or goals at once becomes overwhelming, set up a hierarchy. Select a few things you absolutely must accomplish, several things you want to complete, and many things that would be nice to finish in the future. Not only will this pyramid structure allow you to focus on the essentials, it will also help to reduce the debilitating pressure of trying to juggle so many objectives at one time. 4. Mood Issues Decades of research have found that perfectionism fuels mental health problems. Even more disturbing is the link between perfectionism and suicide. A 2014 study in Review of General Psychology suggests that perfectionism is a bigger risk factor² for suicide than previously thought. Research has found that among young people who die by suicide, nearly 70% placed high demands on themselves and had high expectations. Helpful Tip: Get Outside Engaging in outdoor activities is important for everyone. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, or just taking a walk, being outdoors has an overall positive effect on mood and vitality. While enjoying the great outdoors you’ll get the added benefit of sunlight, which is a natural way to increase your vitamin D levels. When it comes to mood, the scientific evidence³ is clear; the higher your vitamin D levels, the more likely you are to feel happy rather than blue. Daily exposure to just 10 to 30 minutes of direct sunlight can boost vitamin D levels, which can help improve your mood. 5. Eating Irregularities Several studies have found links between self-oriented perfectionism and eating irregularities. People may have an intense fear of gaining weight and seek to control their caloric intake by attempting to create a perfect diet. Others may feel frustrated by the slow progress of their diet and decided to put it on hold or just give up and return to regular eating habits. Helpful Tip: Avoid Triggers It’s important to acknowledge what emotions (stress, loneliness, boredom, etc.) are driving you to make bad food choices. Sometimes it isn’t even an emotional trigger, but the sight or smell that makes you crave certain foods…many people can’t resist buying popcorn once they’ve smelled it in a theater lobby. A good strategy is to be prepared with a healthy alternative before you encounter a triggering event. Healthier swaps of your favorite foods are a great way to outsmart your triggers. Increase Your Happiness Even if you’ve spent much of your life chasing perfection, you can learn to let go of your unhealthy tendencies. Letting yourself (and others) off the hook for past mistakes, especially common ones, can help you overcome negative thought patterns or destructive behaviors. You might find that your outlook on life is much more positive when you’re not being so hard on yourself. Giving yourself more grace might improve your circumstances and increase your happiness. Hopefully, these practical tips will help you break free from the negative thinking, unrealistic expectations, and oppressive perfectionism that can prevent you from being your best self. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect to be happy. 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. Vaish, A., Grossmann, T., & Woodward, A. (2008). Not all emotions are created equal: The negativity bias in social-emotional development. Psychological Bulletin, 134(3), 383–403. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-2909.134.3.383 2. Flett, G. L., Hewitt, P. L., & Heisel, M. J. (2014). The Destructiveness of Perfectionism Revisited: Implications for the Assessment of Suicide Risk and the Prevention of Suicide. Review of General Psychology, 18(3), 156-172. https://doi.org/10.1037/gpr0000011 3. Spedding, S. (2014). Vitamin D and depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis comparing studies with and without biological flaws. Nutrients, 6(4), 1501–1518. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6041501
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These Are Some of the Best Nutrients for Sports Recovery
Exercise is vital to building and maintaining strong muscles and joints. Without a consistent exercise regimen, your muscles can become weak and flabby and your joints stiff and brittle. But be sure to avoid excessive exercise, which can cause severe muscle and joint discomfort, and may lead to knee, hip, or joint injury, which may require surgery. Here are a couple common ways of overdoing it… Tennis Elbow Though a popular sport played by many around the world, tennis might not be the right sport for those who get winded quickly or have reduced mobility. The sport can come with other physical problems too, most famously, “tennis elbow.” This condition may result from excessive playing or repetitive movement and involves irritation or swelling of the tendons in the elbow. Though the name specifically indicates the elbow, a player also may experience pain in their forearm or wrist. Tennis players may have soreness in any number of muscle groups and may develop pain in their joints. Proper technique may help reduce the potential for injury, so working with a tennis instructor or experienced player might be a good idea, especially if you’re just starting out with the sport. Also, if you have any pre-existing injuries, consider consulting a physical therapist or sports medicine specialist before hitting the court. Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is a type of heel pain that afflicts many people. Your plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects your toes to your heel bone; it supports the arch of your foot and helps to absorb shock when you walk or run. Plantar fasciitis is common in runners, overweight individuals, and those who wear shoes with insufficient support. One sign you may have plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain when you take the first few steps in the morning. As you move around, the pain typically begins to diminish. However, the pain may return if you stand for an extended period, take a jog, or engage in rigorous physical activities. To treat plantar fasciitis, physical therapy may be a great place to start. A therapist can help you with specific stretches to strengthen the lower leg muscles, the Achilles tendon, and the plantar fascia. They also might indicate if athletic tape is needed to help relieve pain, and if so, where to place it on your foot. In addition to these two common sports injuries, there are many other activities that can cause aches and pains in various muscles, joints, ligaments, and tendons in your body. Let’s take a quick look at some of the best and worst physical activities for your body, especially as you age. Worst Sports for Your Body Consider avoiding these high-impact sports (especially if you’re already dealing with consistent joint or muscle pain): Basketball Football Rugby Long-distance running Racquet sports (tennis, squash, racquetball) Any sport where you kick a ball, run at high speeds, or make rapid directional changes can be punishing to the joints and ligaments. Best Sports for Your Body Here are a few activities you might consider if you suffer from joint pain: Walking Swimming Rowing Cycling Yoga In addition to these low-impact sports, it’s a good idea to support your joints, ligaments, and muscles with high-quality nutrients. Sports Recovery: Natural Supplements to Help Your Body Heal Curcumin from Turmeric Modern science has extensively researched curcumins (technically, curcuminoid polyphenols) and established their powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits,¹ along with many other positive actions. There are several potential health benefits of curcumin, including support for cardiovascular health, cognitive health, and mood. In addition to supporting the brain, curcumin also may help the eyes, heart and circulation, joints, intestinal tract, skin, prostate, muscles, nerves, and numerous other human tissues. However, turmeric powder is very poorly absorbed.² Also, many turmeric and curcumin supplements deliver insufficient amounts of these nutrients. Brain Curcumins BrainMD’s Brain Curcumins supports working memory, calmness, and satisfaction in coping with mental strain.* Brain Curcumins provides the three major curcumins in Longvida® Optimized Curcumin Extract.* Longvida is a breakthrough formula that fights physical fatigue and can help support a healthy mood.* It’s also clinically shown to have high absorption in humans along with brain benefits.* Omega-3 Fatty Acids The omega-3 fatty acids EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) have a wide range of profound health benefits, from supporting heart and joint health to promoting healthy cognition and mood. Omega-3s play a crucial role in regulating the body’s healthy inflammatory responses, which reduce the chances of having problems with your circulation, joints, and other organs. It’s thought that EPA and DHA may help reduce inflammation in the brain.³ EPA plays a critical role in supporting the healthy regulation of cellular inflammation while DHA is the most abundant omega-3 found in the brain and is important in maintaining nerve cell structure and function. Here are two powerful and ultra-pure omega-3 supplements: Omega-3 Power Omega-3 Power is a potent fish oil supplement that provides high-quality EPA and DHA fatty acids.* These fatty acids are essential for our brain cells to make the trillions of connections that enable peak cognitive, mood, and behavioral performance.* Sourced from pelagic (not bottom-feeders) fish species with short lifespans (so that they don’t accumulate too many toxins), the fish oil in Omega-3 Power undergoes the most advanced purification process in the supplement industry.* The oil in Omega-3 Power is also recognized by several international organizations as a sustainably managed ingredient.* Omega-3 Power Squeeze Omega-3 Power Squeeze is a pleasant-tasting fish oil liquid omega-3 emulsion, customized for children and adults seeking an alternative to taking capsules.* It delivers 910 mg EPA and 590 mg DHA for a total of 1500 mg per serving. The ultra-pure fish oil in Omega-3 Power Squeeze is extracted in its natural triglyceride form from sustainably harvested fish.* The fish oil is tested by independent labs to exclude over 250 toxic contaminants, heavy metals, and other substances.* It is maintained fresh throughout the verification process and then is gently purified and emulsified for better absorption and taste.* Getting adequate amounts of EPA and DHA is a great way to improve overall brain and body function and well-being.* Whether in capsule or liquid form, the EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids in these well-absorbed, proprietary fish oil supplements can help promote a healthy mood, improved cognition, and whole-body wellness.* Live Pain-free Physical exercise is perhaps the single most important thing you can do to keep your brain and body health. Exercise is a great way to feel better, stay healthy, and just have fun. As a general goal, aim for at least 30 minutes of some form of physical activity every day. But be careful not to overdo it. Excessive exercise can lead to muscle and joint pain or other serious physical problems. These sports recovery tips can help reduce pain so you can stay active and live a pain-free life. Start strengthening your muscles and joints with these supporting nutrients today!* 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. Hewlings, S. J., & Kalman, D. S. (2017). Curcumin: A review of its effects on human health. Foods, 6(10), 92. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods6100092 2. Stohs, S. J., Chen, O., Ray, S. D., Ji, J., Bucci, L. R., & Preuss, H. G. (2020). Highly bioavailable forms of curcumin and promising avenues for curcumin-based research and application: A review. Molecules, 25(6), 1397. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25061397 3. Calder, P. C. (2010). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes. Nutrients, 2(3), 355–374. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu2030355
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Here Are Some of the Best Foods for Sleep
What keeps you up at night? The list of reasons why people miss out on a good night’s sleep is extensive. According to the Institute of Medicine (US) Committee on Sleep Medicine and Research, as many as 70 million Americans have ongoing sleep problems that interfere with their daily functioning.¹ High-quality sleep is essential to wellness. If you aren’t getting the recommended 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night,² you’re setting yourself up for a host of physical and mental issues. If you have problems falling asleep at night, a proper diet may help you achieve restful sleep. Here Are Some of the Top Foods That Can Help Improve Your Sleep Tryptophan-rich Foods The human brain naturally produces a soothing neurotransmitter called serotonin, mostly from the amino acid tryptophan that's derived from dietary proteins. Serotonin plays many important roles in the brain’s biochemistry and is intimately involved in maintaining an upbeat mood, boosting self-confidence, sustaining the body’s 24-hour circadian rhythms, and facilitating sustained and deep sleep. Very few foods contain premade serotonin, and once absorbed into the blood it can’t get across the blood-brain barrier. However, tryptophan from food proteins does get across this barrier, so it’s possible to support serotonin needs by eating foods that boost the brain’s tryptophan levels. Examples of foods rich in L-tryptophan are: Spirulina Seeds (especially pumpkin and chia) Squash Watermelon Grass-fed meats (beef, lamb, goat) Free-range poultry (chicken, turkey, duck) Wild-caught salmon and tuna Peas and beans (not canned) Tofu, tempeh, tahini, natto Edamame Eggs (especially the whites) Spinach Magnesium-rich Foods Magnesium is a mineral nutrient essential for over 300 enzymes and is fundamental to your health.³ Magnesium helps promote memory, positivity, and quality sleep. Some leafy-green vegetables, whole grains, nuts and beans are good magnesium foods, but dietary intake has declined by at least 40% in the last 4 decades due to changes in food harvesting and processing, water purification, and overall dietary habits. GABA-rich Foods The neurotransmitter most associated with calming effects in the brain is GABA (technically, Gamma-AminoButyric Acid). Clinical research suggests taking GABA by mouth can help cope with stress, improve mood, and generally have calming effects.⁴ Also, GABA has mild relaxation properties that can support a balanced mood and restful sleep. GABA is naturally found in many teas, such as black, green, and oolong teas. It also can be found in fermented foods including yogurt, kefir, and tempeh. Other foods that may contain GABA (or boost its production in the body) include fava, lentils, beans, nuts and seeds, fish, broccoli, spinach, and berries. Steer Clear of These Sleep Stealing Foods If you struggle with frequent changes in your mood and energy levels, it can be helpful to avoid certain foods and beverages that can trigger mood shifts or energy spikes that can prevent you from getting to sleep at night. Foods to Avoid for Better Sleep: Caffeine Alcohol Sugar Breads Pasta Potatoes White Rice As with any changes in diet, it’s important to introduce new foods gradually to allow your body to adjust to a new routine and ensure that you don’t have any food allergies. You may be amazed at the abundance of energy and the lifted moods these healthful foods can provide. Foods for Better Sleep Remember, fuel your brain with these key foods to reduce stress, improve mood, and increase your chances of getting a great night’s sleep! 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 sleep products 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 (US). (2003). Report to Congress on Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in the United States: Steps to Prevent a Serious Public Health Problem. National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK19960/ 2. Lozano, R., Fullman, N., Mumford, J. E., Knight, M., Barthelemy, C. M., Abbafati, C., ... & Murray, C. J. L. (2018). Measuring progress from 1990 to 2016 and projecting attainment to 2030 of the health-related Sustainable Development Goals for 195 countries and territories: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2016. The Lancet, 392(10159), 2091-2138. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(18)32281-5 3. National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. (2022). Magnesium: Fact sheet for health professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/ 4. Cleveland Clinic. (2022, February 14). Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA): What it is, function & benefits. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22857-gamma-aminobutyric-acid-gaba
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Top Health Benefits of Intermittent Fasting & How to Make it Work for You
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” In recent years, the practice of skipping breakfast has become a trend in the weight loss and health communities. Many people have found that practicing intermittent fasting has helped them feel more energized, achieve fat loss, and stabilize their hormone levels throughout the day. (1) However, there’s a bit more to it than just simply skipping breakfast. Let’s break down what intermittent fasting is, its benefits, and how to implement it into your lifestyle. What is Intermittent Fasting? Intermittent fasting isn’t a type of diet, it’s just a different eating schedule. Your body is always in one of two states, fed or fasted. When we’re fed, our bodies are actively digesting food and fueling our movements. During this state, burning fat is a challenge since we already have readily available fuel from the foods we eat during the day. (2) In a fasted state, our insulin levels are lower and our bodies are able to pull from our fat stores for energy. A fasted state is achieved only 8-12 hours after our body has finished digesting. (3) People rarely enter the fasted state throughout the day, and many eat small meals all day long. This causes spikes in our insulin levels which, in turn, can hinder fat loss. (4) Note: Fat loss is different from weight loss. Weight loss can be accomplished simply by eating at a caloric deficit. (5) For those who practice intermittent fasting, they follow an eating schedule that fits their lifestyle, but typically it’s a 16/8 hour eating window. That means for the 16 hours of fasting, you aren’t eating any foods, creamers, or sweeteners/artificial sweeteners. Only water, black coffee or tea is allowed to keep your body in the fasted state. There are more benefits to intermittent fasting than fat loss and research has shown there are benefits for your overall health as well. Key Benefits of Intermittent Fasting There has been much research on the benefits of regular short-term fasting on our metabolism, hormone balances, and overall health. Some major benefits of intermittent fasting include: Fat Loss Benefits: Encourages the body to burn fat while maintaining muscle mass (6) Does not lower your body’s basal metabolic rate long-term (7) Improved hormone balance Increased norepinephrine and epinephrine levels, which increases fat breakdown (8) Increased glucagon levels Increased lipolysis and fat oxidation Decreased blood glucose levels Decreased insulin levels (9) Overall Health Benefits: Reduces the risk of coronary problems Reduces insulin resistance How to Start Intermittent Fasting Fasting for short periods of time on a regular basis helps people eat fewer calories and helps regulate hormones related to weight management. Here are a few eating protocols to choose from: The 16/8 Protocol: Begin your fast after dinner, then skip breakfast. Break your fast 16 hours after your dinner the night before allowing you to begin an 8-hour eating window. Do this daily for the best results. Example of a fasting window: 8:00 pm - 12:00 pm (noon). Then begin an eating window from 12:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Eat-Stop-Eat: Do one or two 24-hour fasts each week. Example: not eating from dinner one day until dinner the next day. The 5:2 Diet: Only eat 500-600 calories on two days of the week, then eat your normal calorie intake the other 5 days. If these options seem like too much of a challenge, try starting with a shorter fast and gradually extend it as you go. Many find that after just a few days of this, it won’t be as much of a challenge to fast. It’s very important, however, that you still eat enough calories in your 8-hour eating window and aren’t creating too much of a deficit in order to lose weight. Who Should Try Intermittent Fasting? It’s always best to be safe and speak with your healthcare provider before making any major lifestyle changes. Intermittent fasting can be beneficial for many; however, it probably isn’t best for pregnant or breastfeeding women. [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left"] In Summary: Intermittent fasting is simply an eating schedule that allows your body to reset while you’re fasting, making it easier to burn fat and time your meals within a shorter eating window. Our bodies are either in a fasted or fed state. Being in a fed state (digesting foods) all day long makes it hard for our bodies to achieve fat loss. There are many benefits to intermittent fasting including increased energy levels, accelerated fat breakdown, improved hormone balance, and heart health. (10) Make sure to choose the right eating schedule; you can make your eating/fasting windows flexible to fit your lifestyle. Begin with shorter fasting windows and gradually extend them. Avoid fasting over 48 hours straight on a regular basis. Most people follow the 16/8 hour eating protocol. While fasting, make sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water. Coffee/tea is allowed as long as there are no added creamers, sweeteners/artificial sweeteners that can affect your fasted state. [/wc_box] At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest purity nutrients to improve your brain health and overall well-being. For more information about 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. Mattson MP, Longo VD, Harvie M. Impact of intermittent fasting on health and disease processes. Ageing Res Rev. 2017;39:46-58. 2. Patterson RE, Laughlin GA, LaCroix AZ, et al. Intermittent fasting and human metabolic health. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015;115(8):1203-1212. 3. Tinsley GM, La Bounty PM. Effects of intermittent fasting on body composition and clinical health markers in humans. Nutr Rev. 2015;73(10):661-674. 4. Anton SD, Lee SA, Donahoo WT, et al. The effects of intermittent fasting on metabolism and health outcomes. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2018;21(4):264-270. 5. Patterson RE, Sears DD. Metabolic effects of intermittent fasting. Annu Rev Nutr. 2017;37:371-393. 6. Horne BD, Muhlestein JB, Anderson JL. Health effects of intermittent fasting: Hormesis or harm? A systematic review. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015;102(2):464-470. 7. Varady KA, Hellerstein MK. Alternate-day fasting and chronic disease prevention: a review of human and animal trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2015;102(1):10-16. 8. Harvie M, Howell A. Potential benefits and harms of intermittent energy restriction and intermittent fasting. Obes Res Clin Pract. 2017;11(2):207-221. 9. de Cabo R, Mattson MP. Effects of intermittent fasting on health, aging, and disease. N Engl J Med. 2019;381(26):2541-2551. 10. Anton SD, et al. The effects of intermittent fasting on health. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2018;21(4):264-270.
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Head Injury Symptoms – Know the Warning Signs and Best Treatments
There are nearly 3 million emergency room visits for head injuries in the U.S. annually.¹ On top of this, there are hundreds of thousands of unreported head injuries each year. Unfortunately, brain or head injuries that don’t result in a loss of consciousness often go unnoticed and are never treated. Even mild to moderate head injuries can significantly decrease brain function, which can have a far-reaching impact on a person’s life.² Basic Questions to Ask Yourself Since many people forget that they’ve had a head injury or trauma, even when asked several times by a family member or medical professional, it’s critical that you ask the right questions to help them remember. Here are a few basic questions to ask yourself. Have you ever: Played football, baseball, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, rugby, or hockey? Fallen out of a tree, down the stairs, off a horse, a bike or a skateboard, or crashed while skiing or snowboarding? Been in a motor vehicle accident (even a simple fender bender)? Been physically assaulted? Been hit directly in the head? Blacked out for a few seconds or seen stars? Felt dazed or confused for a minute? Head Injury Symptoms: Know the Warning Signs While some people display warning signs immediately following a head injury, others don’t develop symptoms until weeks or even months later.³ The result of this delay is that the underlying cause of the symptoms is often forgotten. Here are some of the most common head injury symptoms of mild to moderate head traumas: Cognitive changes – poor concentration, memory problems, learning issues, poor judgment and impulsivity, and difficulty putting thoughts into words. Physical complaints – dizziness, fatigue, headaches, visual disturbances, trouble sleeping, sensitivity to light and sound, poor balance. Psychosocial concerns – mood issues, anger outbursts, irritability, personality changes. Symptoms can last for hours, days, weeks, or longer. Ignoring your indicators and trying to “tough it out” with any brain injury may make symptoms worse. Whether you’ve suffered a minor or major hit to the head, implementing these 5 tips can help restore cognitive function: 5 of the Best Ways to Help Restore Cognitive Function 1. Detox with Water The fluids in your body transport waste products in and out of your cells, while your kidneys and liver flush those waste products and other toxins out of your body. This process can only work properly and efficiently if you remain well hydrated. Your brain is roughly 80% water, so avoid anything that dehydrates it. If you don’t drink enough water, you’re at an increased risk of developing kidney stones and experiencing urinary tract infections. Dehydration also can slow the healing process of your brain. 2. Boost Your Immunity Boost your immune system by taking antioxidants daily. Vitamin C is a versatile antioxidant and the most dollar-effective antitoxin you can purchase. Curcumin, which gives turmeric and curries their gold color, is also a powerful antioxidant. However, due to the labor-intensive process of extracting sufficient quantities of curcumin from the turmeric root, it’s recommended that you take a well-absorbed supplement daily to get the proper amount of curcumin you need. 3. MAX-imize Your Brain Health Many people who’ve experienced a head injury don’t know how to get help for their brain. One of the best ways to promote the healing process is with brain directed supplements and vitamins.* Fundamental to every vitamin regimen should be a powerful multivitamin, high-purity fish oil, and memory supporting supplement.* At BrainMD, we’re proud to recommend… Brain & Body Power MAX Brain & Body Power MAX is recommended for those who are interested in a truly powerful dietary supplement for their brains with added memory support.* It provides your brain and body with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, botanical extracts and neuro-nutrients – all at advanced levels.* This all-in-one supplement system makes it easy to stay healthy on the go with easy-to-carry packets for your purse or pocket.* Each convenient daily packet contains: 2 capsules of NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin, 2 gelcaps of Omega-3 Power, and 3 capsules of Brain & Memory Power Boost. [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" class=""] NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin Fifty vitamins, minerals and plant extracts (all in their most active forms) combine to give you the clinically proven groundwork for your supplement regimen in NeuroVite Plus Multivitamin.* NeuroVite Plus is also the only way to get Dr. Amen’s proprietary Brain Boosting Blend of brain-supporting nutrients. Omega-3 Power Healthy brains and hearts require plenty of omega-3’s to operate at peak performance, and Omega-3 Power is an easy way to get them.* 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 you’d find in conventional brands.* Plus, the fish oil in Omega-3 Power undergoes the most advanced purification process in the supplement industry.* Brain & Memory Power Boost The bestselling, brain-boosting formula in Brain & Memory Power Boost can provide you with an all-star lineup of potent ingredients that support the brain’s energy, connectivity, and overall performance.* As brain directed nutrition, this product is grounded in solid and clinical science to support healthy brain and memory performance.* [/wc_box] 4. Eat Healthy Proper nutrition is essential to peak brain function. A healthy diet includes lean protein, fruits, vegetables, nuts and healthy fats such as olive oil. It’s recommended that you eat 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. To help with your meal planning, there are many healthy and delicious recipes in The Brain Warrior’s Way Cookbook. 5. Take it Easy From time to time, all of us need to recharge our batteries and self-care is a key to physical and mental health. If you’ve recently had a hit to the head, discontinue activities that could potentially reinjure your brain and give yourself sufficient time to heal. Always consult with a medical professional before engaging in physical activities that might put your brain at risk. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about Brain & Body Power MAX 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. Bai, N. (2018, October 17). With dangers of everyday concussions revealed, scientists race to find solutions. UC San Francisco. https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2018/10/412006/dangers-everyday-concussions-revealed-scientists-race-find-solutions 2. University of Oxford. (2023, January 31). Three or more concussions linked to worse brain function in later life. https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2023-01-31-three-or-more-concussions-linked-worse-brain-function-later-life 3. Mayo Clinic. (2023). Concussion: Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594
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Serotonin: This Is Why You Need More of This Calming Brain Transmitter
Your brain makes this naturally soothing chemical messenger called serotonin from a time before you born and continues throughout your lifetime. It plays many roles in the brain’s biochemistry – and it's intimately involved in enhancing deep sleep, maintaining a healthy mood and self-confidence, even supporting a healthy appetite and social engagement. Produced by the body, this “get happy” chemical also enables the nervous system and your brain cells to communicate back-and-forth. Here's How Serotonin Can Help Boost Your Mood and Curb Cravings People who struggle with low mood often have very low levels of serotonin. Yet, serotonin can be increased in the brain (and body) by eating the proper foods and/or supplementing your diet. Interestingly, certain nutrients may help metabolize and utilize serotonin more efficiently. Some of these nutrients include magnesium, zinc, fish oil, vitamins C and B6. Some studies suggest that women produce 52 percent less serotonin than men.¹ Levels seem to fluctuate with menstrual cycles, which may explain why women are more prone to mood issues. Too little serotonin may affect mood,² while too much serotonin can actually become toxic, according to studies by the National Institutes of Health. The greatest risk of having too much serotonin often occurs when people mix over-the-counter supplements with antidepressants or other prescriptions drugs.³ Always ask your doctor about supplementing, especially if you have a serious condition and take medication every day. Can You Have Too Much of a Good Thing? Yes, you can ingest too much serotonin, although the opposite is much more common. Symptoms of too much serotonin include: Confusion Tremors Dilated pupils Heavy sweating Changes in blood pressure Restlessness and sleep issues The good news is that healthy lifestyle habits – such as daily exercise, consuming “smart” carbohydrates in moderation, and taking supplements – can work together to create a positive mood, which can be the foundation of a happier and more satisfying life! Feeling blue is often accompanied by increased appetite. Balancing your serotonin levels may help minimize that emotional overeating. Plus, supplements can potentially help control your appetite and promote feelings of calm. Certain Foods Naturally Contain Serotonin Eating foods high in tryptophan (the amino acid that helps manufacture serotonin) may include healthy servings of carbohydrates and some lean proteins. Your best chance at staying calm and composed is with a serotonin boost, but if you don't take supplements, at least eat frequent servings of healthy carbohydrates – like oatmeal or whole-grains – along with lean protein sources, such as eggs, poultry, and fatty fish like salmon. If you regularly need to calm yourself down, eat better and improve mental focus and mood, try these good mood boosters. 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: Nishizawa, S., Benkelfat, C., Young, S. N., Leyton, M., Mzengeza, S., De Montigny, C., Blier, P., & Diksic, M. (1997). Differences between males and females in rates of serotonin synthesis in human brain. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 94(10), 5308-5313. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.94.10.5308 Namkung, J., Kim, H., & Park, S. (2015). Peripheral serotonin: A new player in systemic energy homeostasis. Molecules and Cells, 38(12), 1023–1028. https://doi.org/10.14348/molcells.2015.0258 Mayo Clinic Staff. (2023, October 5). Serotonin syndrome: Symptoms & causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/serotonin-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20354758
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