At this point in science, the only proven means to slow the aging process (at least in laboratory animals) is chronic caloric deprivation. Indeed, animal studies have shown repeatedly that decreasing caloric intake long term can dramatically slow down the ever-ticking aging clock. Scientists surmise that the key mechanism is that reducing calories slows metabolism […]
A recent review of the latest studies evaluating garlic’s beneficial effects on blood pressure provided some real artery-opening results. After combining the data from 11 separate clinical trials, researchers found that garlic indeed packs an impressive blood pressure – lowering punch. For folks in the studies that had high blood pressure, the garlic reduced the […]
I promised to keep you abreast of the latest science on the vitamin D and you front and the eye-popping data continues to roll in. After reviewing a series of cardiovascular studies, researchers recently concluded the science is crystal clear that low vitamin D levels can increase your risk of heart attacks and strokes. (Journal of […]
I was recently reintroduced to the Chia Seed (yes, the same seeds we used to grow grass on plaster “Chia Pets” with) and I have to say I am quite impressed. Like all seeds, they are jam-packed with nutrients including protein, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats, but they have a few unique features that qualify […]
With the exception of those who are pregnant, coffee is not only a remarkably safe (and delicious!) beverage, mounting science is discovering that it conveys significant health benefits too. A new report in the American Journal of Epidemiology (Dec. 08) that followed over 38,000 adults for a 13 year period found those who drank 1 […]
From a disease-prevention standpoint, the Mediterranean-style eating pattern, which features heavy use of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), regularly comes out on top as the tastiest and most efficacious. According to BMC Cancer (Dec. 08), Spanish researchers have discovered some super potent, anti-cancer chemicals in EVOO that may explain why this eating style is associated with […]
Over the past 5 years, as I have diligently read the new science as it relates to wellness and nutrition (with a few a exceptions) I have experienced an almost complete about face in my belief and enthusiasm for supplements. The past month happened to bring us a deluge of new data from several large, […]
Like their bean cousins, lentils are cheap, versatile, filling, and power-packed full of fiber, B-vitamins, protein, minerals, and antioxidant polyphenols. They provide more folate than any other food and have an edge over the other legumes because they cook quickly, require no pre-soaking, and tend to cause less gas.
I consider extra virgin olive oil a superstar food for both sensory pleasure and health protection, and a fascinating new study in the October issue of Cell Metabolism provided yet another reason to make this delicious fat your oil of choice, namely better appetite control. Olive oil is chock full of heart-happy monounsaturated fats and […]
Have you seen the new advertising blitz (“The Sweet Surprise Campaign”) undertaken by the Corn Refiners Association (sugar pushers) claiming that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is “natural” and “the same as sugar?” They claim that HFCS has been unduly vilified and that it is handled in the body no differently than regular sugar. Although […]
Hydration or having enough water in the body is important because water is the body’s most critical, essential nutrient. Illness and death will ensue from lack of water much more quickly versus the other essential nutrients. On average, about 65% of the body is made up of water. Water provides many vital functions: […]
According to a powerful new study – the largest such study ever, middle aged to elderly men can slash their risk of premature death from all causes in half simply by taking a brisk, 30 minute walk at least 4 to 6 days a week. The investigators calculated the fitness levels of over 15,000 adult […]