Optimal Health Insider
Research broken down for ease of use
Astragalus ‘balances immune response’ in study on pro athletes
While moderate physical exercise has been proven to consistently improve one's immune system, strenuous exercise may exert an opposite effect---at least temporarily. This happens because strenuous exercise activates immunological and endocrine mechanisms similar to...
Healthy gut bacteria makes the brain ‘younger’ according to Irish study
The legendary Fountain of Youth is a magical spring that restores the youth of anyone who drinks or bathes in its waters. Tales of such a fountain have been recounted around the world for thousands of years. The mythical fountain has never been found; however, new...
Selenium and manganese during pregnancy confers heart benefits to baby for life
Most expectant mothers have been told by their doctor to take a folic acid supplement during their pregnancy; however, emerging evidence is showing that selenium and manganese are equally important during pregnancy. Not only can these minerals play a key part in the...
As new COVID variants emerge, research highlights the nutrients you need for protection
As new variants of COVID emerge---and as The Centers for Disease Control admits that vaccinations don't guarantee protection---the importance of maintaining an optimal immune system is more critical than ever. Fortunately a number of studies have examined which...
Vitamin K2 helps prevent Alzheimer’s, according to new research
According to new research published in Nutrients, the vitamin known primarily for heart and bone benefits--Vitamin K2---may also be highly beneficial in preventing Alzheimer's disease. The study, conducted by researchers from the Harvard Extension School and Pacific...
Having low Omega-3 level reduces life expectancy as much as smoking
Most people know that Omega-3 essential fatty acids are important for maintaining cardiovascular health, but they might be surprised to learn just how important those protective benefits are. According to new research, published in the American Journal of Clinical...
Glucosamine not just for joints: New research highlights gut benefit
Glucosamine is recognized by most for it's joint support properties, but a new scientific trial has shown it is also beneficial for promoting intestinal function. The improvements in gut health included healthy changes of microbiota in additio to less bloating,...
Move over anti-aging creams: Study finds probiotics and phytonutrients reverse age by three years
According to new research, a diet that includes probiotics and phytonutrients can make you look and feel younger in as little as eight weeks. The multi-institutional U.S. study determined that certain diet and lifestyle changes may knock off as much as three years in...
Is taking a vitamin/mineral supplement important? 80% of pharmacists think so
According to a new survey, 80% of pharmacists in the U.S. take vitamin/mineral supplements to support their overall health. It typically takes six years of higher education to obtain the credentials needed for dispensing prescription drugs, and for this reason...
Deep breathing for five minutes lowers blood pressure as much as exercise or drugs
Conducting breathing exercises for just five minutes per day lowers blood pressure as well as---and in some cases, more than---aerobic exercise or medication, a new U.S. study has found. The research, conducted at University of Colorado at Boulder also found...
Balancing ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fats lowers chronic pain, according to research
A new study has found that a typical Western diet high in Omega-6 oils increases the risk of chronic pain. Meanwhile, reversing this diet, and balancing the Omega-6 to Omega-3 ratio, improved the same chronic pain. The research was conducted by The University of Texas...
Celebrating 25 years: The watershed research that proved enzymes and antioxidants are superior to NSAIDs
Today the anti-inflammatory benefits of proteolytic enzymes and antioxidants are widely known. The CDC website touts the antioxidant benefits of fruits and vegetables, and many physicians today might try a regimen of enzymes before prescribing prescriptions to a...