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Benefits of Quercetin with Reduced L-Glutathione
Over the last couple of years, there has been a lot of buzz online about quercetin supplement products. If you've seen individuals discussing quercetin benefits or even recommending quercetin COVID cures, you're likely wondering if the supplements live up to their hype. The truth is that research suggests there are real quercetin health benefits, especially when combined with a glutathione supplement. Read on to get the facts about quercetin and glutathione. What Is Quercetin? Quercetin is a natural chemical found in foods like black tea, berries, citrus fruits, broccoli, tomatoes, and kale. Most supplements contain a form of the substance called quercetin dihydrate. What Is Quercetin Used for? Scientists have put quercetin to the test in numerous clinical studies. While there still isn't enough evidence to prove that it's effective for everyone who takes it, early findings suggest that quercetin may do all of the following. Promote Healthy Aging Quercetin is an antioxidant, a substance capable of breaking down harmful particles called free radicals. All-day long, your body is bombarded with free radicals found in ultraviolet radiation and pollutants. If left unchecked, they can damage cells throughout your body. Because of its antioxidant benefits, quercetin may protect the cardiovascular system, reduce the risk of premature signs of aging and even lower the likelihood of developing some types of cancer. Some experts believe it may also diminish the risk of some neurological conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Assist with Healthy Circulation Quercetin has been shown to promote healthy circulation. By making it easier for blood to travel through your body, the supplement may help to lower blood pressure levels and make a person less likely to develop heart disease. For those who already have heart problems, the supplement may improve arterial health. Support Your Immune Response While there is no evidence to suggest that quercetin can prevent COVID-19, the supplement has been found to support the immune system. Quercetin may help modulate the body's inflammatory response to assist with various conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Individuals frequently take quercetin for allergies based on research that shows it interferes with the release of symptom-triggering histamine. There is also some evidence suggesting that quercetin protects from bacteria associated with stomach, skin, respiratory and urinary infections. What is Glutathione? Glutathione or l-glutathione is a substance manufactured by the liver and nerve cells. It plays a number of important roles in the body. Some individuals take glutathione supplements to boost their body's natural supply. What Are Some Glutathione Benefits? As with quercetin, more research is required to verify L Glutathione benefits thoroughly. However, experts believe that it may have the following health benefits based on studies already completed. Natural Detoxification One of glutathione's key jobs is to destroy toxins that can interfere with your health and well-being. As a result, individuals often take it for a natural detox. Studies also show that glutathione may reduce the risk of hepatitis and liver disease by reducing strain on the liver. Heart Health Like quercetin, glutathione has antioxidant potential. There is some evidence to suggest that its free radical-fighting abilities are significantly better for the cardiovascular system. Specifically, research indicates that the supplements may help lower cholesterol levels, address the hardening of the arteries and reduce the risk of heart disease. It may also lower the likelihood of heart problems in individuals with diabetes. Immune Support Your body requires glutathione to produce specific proteins and activate key enzymes the immune system uses. Increasing your glutathione supply may help power the T-cells needed to fight off various kinds of infections. Also, it assists with DNA repair and may support the natural healing process. Healthy Vision Studies have shown that glutathione's antioxidant activities are crucial for eye health. The substance may help reduce the risk of damage of free radicals that attack the eye's lens. As a result, doctors sometimes recommend that individuals with cataracts or glaucoma or those at risk for either condition take a glutathione supplement daily. What Is Bioperine? Bioperine is a type of black pepper extract standardized to contain at least 95 percent piperine. Piperine is a substance naturally present in black pepper that gives the spice certain health benefits. What Is Bioperine Used for? Some quercetin and reduced glutathione supplements like Body Kitchen Mega Quercetin contain Bioperine black pepper extract. Research indicates that black pepper extract benefits the digestive system, helping it absorb and utilize nutrients more efficiently. This means that its presence in a combination supplement may enhance the effectiveness of both quercetin and glutathione. Studies also suggest that Bioperine may reduce inflammation and support circulation to complement the actions of the other vital ingredients.
2022 NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS - OBTAINING A GROWTH MINDSET
With the beginning of the new year 2022, it's time to start setting goals for the year ahead. If you're like most individuals, you go into the year with a new year resolution or two. You make progress initially but ultimately abandon your efforts and fail to make healthy lifestyle changes or accomplish other goals. Although this chain of events is typical, it's not guaranteed to occur. You can set yourself up for success when you approach the new year with a growth mindset instead of a fixed mindset. Read on to learn about the difference between a fixed vs. growth mindset and how the right attitude can finally help you start living a healthy lifestyle. WHAT IS A GROWTH MINDSET? A simple growth mindset definition is a belief in the ability to change. When you approach life with a growth mindset, you are open to the possibility that you can adapt and evolve. If you encounter challenges, you don't believe that failure is inevitable. Instead, you readjust and try again. GROWTH MINDSET VS. FIXED MINDSET A fixed mindset is a hopeless frame of mind that cynically sees the world. If you have a fixed mindset, you believe that you can't ever make improvements no matter what you do. Individuals with a fixed mindset often practice negative self-talk, saying things like "I can't," or "I won't," or "it doesn't matter." This type of talk can get in the way of achieving health goals and other kinds of goals, and it's often why individuals abandon new year resolutions so quickly. CULTIVATING A GROWTH MINDSET Everyone experiences moments of negativity. Even individuals with a positive growth mindset may occasionally engage in defeatist thinking. The key is to strive to maintain a growth mindset as much as possible and to notice when you begin to drift into fixed mindset territory. Some ways that you can cultivate a growth mindset include: Return your mind to the positives. Whenever you begin to think of something negative, force yourself to think of two positive things. For example, if you misplace your car keys and end up stressed before work, you can take note of the beautiful sunrise and reflect on the delicious breakfast you ate. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Getting assistance from others isn't cheating or being weak. Having a solid support network is vital to any real success. Ask a friend or your partner to hold you accountable or help take on a task that you're struggling to complete. Let the other person know you're there to help them, too. Become your cheerleader. Get in the habit of praising yourself, even for the little things. Sometimes, just getting out of bed on a bad day is a major victory. Talk to yourself like you would someone you love. Catch yourself when you're being unkind or destructive. Ask yourself if you would talk to a specific person you love that way to silence that harmful inner voice. HOW TO LIVE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE WITH A GROWTH MINDSET Now that you understand how to foster a growth mindset in yourself, it's time to pair that with your goals for 2002. Follow this process to use a growth mindset to achieve your vision: Start with an actionable goal. You can't succeed when you don't have a clear vision of success. Write down a concrete plan with a measurable outcome and give it a set period of time. I think I will lose 30 pounds by the end of the year instead of losing weight this year. Once you have your goal written down, read it aloud and tell yourself that you have what it takes to succeed. Break your goal into smaller milestones. Making your goals a reality requires a plan. To create one, break your main goal into smaller goals. For example, if you want to exercise for three hours every week consistently, take it slowly. For the first month, maybe plan for 30 minutes per week and then increase by 15 minutes of exercise every month until you reach your goal. Write down your milestones and verbally commit to the possibility of achieving each of them. Put your plan into action. Once your goal is in place, start following it. Keep a record of what you do every day to contribute to your success. Recognize the changes you've made and tell yourself that it's proof you can succeed. Assess your progress at each milestone. When you reach a milestone in your plan, evaluate whether or not you achieved it. If you did, celebrate in a small way, and once again remind yourself that you have what it takes to continue moving forward. If you fall short of your goal, frame it not as a failure but as a sign that you haven't developed the right plan. Reevaluate your goals to see if they were unrealistic. Revise as needed, create a new strategy and recommit with the knowledge that you are capable of change.
BOOST EVERYDAY BRAIN PERFORMANCE
When your brain isn't functioning at its best, you can't be at your best. Brain fog can get in the way of your daily activities and stand in the way of your success. Fortunately, cognitive supplements may provide a solution for boosting brain performance. Read on to learn more about what cognitive health supplements are and how they may benefit you. WHAT IS COGNITIVE PERFORMANCE? Cognitive performance is the term that describes how well the brain works. Individuals with high cognitive performance have an easier time reasoning, remembering, solving problems, making decisions, learning new things, and paying attention. Stress, a poor diet, a lack of sleep, age, and medical issues can all interfere with cognitive performance, hampering mental abilities. Some signs that your cognitive performance may need improving include: Forgetting appointments and important dates like birthdays Needing reminded about conversations or events that recently took place Feeling high levels of stress when you need to make crucial decisions Getting lost easily Struggling to stay organized or on task Giving in to impulsive behaviors WHAT ARE BRAIN PERFORMANCE SUPPLEMENTS? Brain performance supplements are dietary supplements that contain ingredients believed to help support brain function. You may also see them referred to as cognitive enhancement supplements or brain health supplements. Individuals may choose to take supplements for brain fog or other symptoms of poor cognitive performance. Others take them to keep their brains functioning at their best and reduce the risk of experiencing symptoms in the future. WHAT ARE THE BEST SUPPLEMENTS FOR COGNITIVE FUNCTION? Research into the use of supplements for brain health is ongoing. More work is needed to confirm that any particular supplement is beneficial for everyone who takes one. However, the following supplements have shown promising results in various studies: Polyphenols, plant extracts found in grapes, berries, and other fruits and vegetables. Research shows that these substances are antioxidants, meaning they can fight free radicals that cause oxidative stress. For the brain, this may help reduce damage to cells that contribute to loss of cognitive function. Some studies have also found that antioxidants may lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Ashwagandha, an herb commonly used in Ayurvedic healing. Ashwagandha is believed to be an adaptogen, an herb that protects the body from the effects of stress. As a result, it may offer several benefits for the brain. Research shows that it may ease anxiety symptoms, improve mood, and support memory function. Caffeine, a naturally occurring chemical found in coffee, tea, and chocolate. In the body, caffeine energizes the central nervous system, boosting brain activity. This not only helps you feel more awake, but it may also reduce brain fog and support cognitive ability. Theobromine, a chemical extract from cocoa beans. Theobromine acts as an antioxidant, giving it the same benefits as a polyphenol. However, it may offer additional advantages as a brain health supplement. Research indicates that theobromine enhances circulation to the brain. Supplying the brain with more blood could help support cognitive function. The substance has also been shown to increase alertness without causing jitteriness. Vitamin B6 is one of the essential vitamins the human body requires to function correctly. Without vitamin B6, your brain cannot produce neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Research indicates that vitamin B6 deficiency can cause symptoms of poor cognitive function and that increasing one's intake through supplements may boost memory and improve mood. As you can see, you have many options for brain supplements. Choosing combination brain health supplements that contain two or more of the ingredients listed above may help increase the effectiveness of supplementation without requiring you to juggle multiple bottles. HOW DO I TAKE SUPPLEMENTS FOR COGNITIVE FUNCTION? To take brain supplements safely, first talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if the ingredients in any particular supplement are safe for you to take. For best results, follow the directions for use featured on the supplement packaging unless a medical provider gives you other instructions. Make sure to take your supplement consistently. Forgetting or skipping doses will likely make any supplement less effective. Also, be patient. Results from supplements develop slowly, so it may take several weeks before you notice improvements. HOW DO I IMPROVE COGNITIVE FUNCTION? Your diet and lifestyle can help or hinder the actions of cognitive function supplements. To help enhance effectiveness: Cut down on your intake of added sugar and refined carbs Limit your intake of red meat, fried foods, and trans fatty acids like margarine Drink alcohol only in moderation Avoid fish that may contain high levels of mercury Get at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night Increase your physical activity Stop smoking cigarettes Don't use marijuana Practice stress management techniques like meditation or deep breathing
Body Kitchen Holiday Mock Toddy Recipe
This nourishing spin on a hot toddy will have you ready to cozy up by the fireplace with a good book or a good friend. Hot toddies, typically made with whiskey, are a folk remedy for colds and congestion. Our mocktail version, combines the immune power of vitamin C and elderberry with tea, spices and honey delivered in a piping hot beverage. Drink when you are under the weather or any time you crave a little comfort. Prep time: 10 minutes Makes: 1 serving Recipe Ingredients: 10 oz boiling water 1 black tea bag (or substitute rooibos for caffeine-free) 1 capsule Body Kitchen Vitamin C SHIELD 1 capsule Body Kitchen Nordic-Elder SHIELD ½ teaspoon honey, or to taste 2 whole cloves 1 slice lemon 1 cinnamon stick Recipe Directions: Place the tea bag in your favorite mug, pour in the boiling water, cover (with a saucer or plate) and let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes. Remove the cover and the tea bag. Open the capsules of Vitamin C SHIELD and Nordic-Elder SHIELD and stir the contents into the tea until dissolved. Stir in honey. Push the whole cloves into the lemon slice and float in the tea. Add a cinnamon stick and stir. Sip and enjoy! Tip: When you are finished, rinse the cinnamon stick, allow to dry and reuse in your next mock toddy. Nutrition facts (1 serving): 16 calories, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat, 4 grams carbohydrate, 0 grams fiber
Say No to New Year’s Resolutions This Year
It has become a ritual to begin the New Year with a resolution to drop a bad habit or change a behavior that doesn’t serve you well. And, because humans can be predictable creatures, resolutions typically have something to do with losing weight and getting healthier. In theory, the timing is right with the New […]
New Year's Resolutions: A Healthy Lifestyle in 2022!
With New Year's Eve approaching, it's time to start thinking about setting a new year resolution. With the right resolutions, you can get on your way to living a healthy lifestyle in the new year. Read on to explore some of the top new Year's resolutions and get healthy lifestyle tips to help you achieve whatever goals you set. Establish Health Goals for the Year Before you say Happy New Year and goodbye to 2021, take the time to evaluate your lifestyle carefully. Think about what healthy lifestyle changes you'd like to make, and then turn those into actionable goals. For example, if you want to lose weight in 2022, set a realistic goal of losing 1 to 2 pounds every week until you reach your ideal weight. When you make goals something you can measure, you'll have an easier time achieving new year health resolutions. Commit to a Healthy Eating Plan Healthy nutrition can make a significant impact on your overall well-being. Making better choices at meals can assist with weight control and ensure that your body has the nutrients it needs to function at its best. For a new year's resolution, you may want to eat a more natural diet and avoid highly processed foods as much as possible. Or, you could decide to incorporate clean and natural supplements, such as Trimglo, to help your body administrate sugars more efficiently so it they can be used as an energy source. Promote Beauty from the Inside Out Beauty does play a role in a healthy lifestyle. When you look your best, you can feel more confident and comfortable. If you're concerned about signs of aging, consider addressing those fine lines and wrinkles from the inside out in the new year. Body Kitchen’s Youthful Beauty Powder can supply you with advanced di-peptide collagen protein to help promote suppler, firmer skin. Black currant extract is added to the formula to help your body better make the most out of collagen by increasing its absorption rate by 30%. With added anti-aging nutrients, such as resveratrol, this collagen formula is definitely something to consider if your resolution includes looking and feeling younger. Strengthen Your Relationships Having a solid support network of friends and family means you always have someone to turn to during periods of stress. Strong relationships can also keep you from feeling isolated. Friendship isn't just good for your mental health. Studies have found that people who have healthy supportive relationships are more likely to be healthy than those who don't. During the new year, you can focus on maintaining regular contact with the people who matter most. Remember that you need to be a good friend in turn to have good friends. Ensure the people you love know that they can count on you to listen and advise them. Make Sleep a Priority Sleep is essential to your health and well-being. Studies have found that not getting the recommended minimum of seven hours of sleep every night can negatively impact everything from concentration and cognitive function to your immune system. To improve your sleep, establish a set bedtime and wake-up time and stick to it every day of the week. Limit screen time before bed and take steps to block out light and sound in your bedroom. A magnesium supplement like Body Kitchen Magnesium Powder can also help to support healthy sleep by assisting with muscle reaction and stress management, allowing the body to achieve a more relaxed state. Consistently Set Aside Me -Time In 2022, shake off those feelings of guilt that come with taking a break to do something nice for yourself. Practicing self-care by giving yourself some me-time every day can have a dramatic impact on your stress levels. Plus, being diligent about your timeouts helps to establish healthy boundaries in relationships and encourages your family and friends to take the same self-care measures for themselves. Find Ways to Reduce Stress Speaking of stress, getting it under control in the New Year can pay off big for your health and well-being. Stress has been shown to contribute to headaches and muscle pain, to cause feelings of fatigue and to interfere with digestion. Stress may also make you more susceptible to anxiety and depression and impede immune system function when not controlled. You can try several stress relief methods, such as practicing mindfulness, meditating, and deep breathing. Seeing a therapist may also help you work through stress. Get Moving Regular exercise is about more than just weight management. Working out regularly supports immunity and cardiovascular health and can help to ease symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. The CDC recommends that adults under the age of 65 get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and do strength-building exercises two days per week. Celebrate Your Success and Learn from Failures As you work toward accomplishing your 2022 health goals, take pride in your accomplishments and celebrate significant milestones, but be prepared for failure, too. When you deviate from your healthy living plan, determine what caused you to stray. Forgive yourself and recommit to your goal, taking steps to avoid the same pitfall in the future.
What Is Liposomal Vitamin C? Liposomal Vitamin C Benefits
With the arrival of cold and flu season, you may find yourself thinking more about your immune system. After all, how well it functions could make all the difference in whether you get sick this year and determine how long you may suffer from symptoms of an illness if you do contract a virus. Many people rely on vitamin C supplement products for immune support during flu season and throughout the rest of the year. If you're considering buying a supplement, read on to learn why you may want to focus on ones that contain liposomal vitamin C. What Is Vitamin C? Vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins your body needs to function correctly. You can't make vitamin C on your own, so your entire supply must come from the foods that you eat. What Are the Signs of Vitamin C Deficiency? In the U.S., severe vitamin C deficiency is rare. It causes symptoms like gum inflammation, joint pain, extreme fatigue, poor wound healing, and a red or purple rash on the skin when it does occur. This set of symptoms is sometimes referred to as scurvy. Basic Vitamin C Benefits Because vitamin C deficiency is so rare, most people who take vitamin C supplements do so not to ensure that they get enough of the vitamin but in hopes of reaping its potential health benefits. Studies indicate that vitamin C may: Reduce the risk of heart disease. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, a substance that defends the body from damaging free radicals. Because of this, it may reduce oxidative stress that contributes to cardiovascular disease. Promote healthy vision. Studies have found that people who have age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and take a vitamin C supplement may see a slowing in the progression of vision loss. Enhance skin texture. Vitamin C is needed to produce collagen, the structural protein that supports skin tissue. As you age, collagen levels naturally decrease, leading to lost skin elasticity. Some scientists speculate that taking vitamin C supplements may help collagen production address this common sign of aging. Support immune system function. Your immune system requires vitamin C for critical functions. Research suggests that taking a vitamin C supplement may help to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Some people take vitamin C to avoid getting sick, but there isn't enough evidence to prove that the supplement makes you less likely to catch a cold or the flu. What Is Liposomal Vitamin C? Vitamin C supplements are not all the same. Although they all provide vitamin C, the form of the vitamin varies from product to product. Liposomal vitamin C is one type of vitamin C found in supplements. In this type of supplement, the vitamin is encased in microscopic fat particles called lipids. Your body naturally produces liposomes to carry materials in and out of cells. Due to advancements in bioengineering, liposomes can now also be manufactured in laboratories and are used as delivery mechanisms for prescription drugs and vitamin C. Body Kitchen makes an excellent supplement, Vitamin C Shield, that uses pure Liposomal C. Key Liposomal Vitamin C Benefits Because of its unique form, liposomal vitamin C may offer benefits that other types of supplements don't. Better Bioavailability and Absorption of Nutrients The bioavailability of vitamins refers to how readily a supplement can be absorbed and utilized by your body. With standard vitamin C supplements, only about 50% of the nutrient is typically able to be adequately digested, absorbed, and put to use. Liposomes have been shown to provide better absorption of nutrients. The reason why liposomal vitamin C enhances absorption lies in biology. Each of your cells is surrounded by a lipid layer called a membrane. Its purpose is to hold cellular material in place and control what enters and exits the cells. Liposomes are made from the same type of material as the cellular membrane. As a result, liposomal vitamin C may be able to enter your cells more efficiently than generic vitamin C from corn. Less Risk of Side Effects In addition to improved bioavailability, liposomal vitamin C may lower the risk of side effects associated with supplements. Vitamin C may cause digestive issues like nausea, diarrhea, heartburn, and stomach cramps at high doses. Headaches and fatigue are also reported side effects. Some experts believe that liposomes may minimize the risk of these side effects occurring. However, you should still only take as much vitamin C as the manufacturer recommends unless your medical provider gives you other advice. A final thing to note about supplemental vitamin C is that in high doses and in the ascorbic acid form, such as Vitamin C Shield, it can deplete copper stores. If you take this helpful product more than a few days, please consider the dietary sources of copper in your diet. You can find copper in delicious foods such as chocolate, oysters, spirulina, sunflower seeds and shiitake mushrooms. Ensure you’re meeting your needs, especially during cold and flu season! Potentially Higher Quality Supplement Overall, liposomal vitamin C supplements may be of higher quality than other options. Advanced engineering and technology are required to produce liposomal vitamin C, that’s where Body Kitchen’s quality stands out. All their products, including Vitamin C Shield, are manufactured in a highly-reputable facility within the US.
THE INABILITY TO FOCUS AND CONCENTRATE IN ADULTS
Business success depends on many factors, including your mental status. A lack of focus could get in the way of you reaching your full potential and accomplishing your career goals. Fortunately, you can quickly determine if your level of focus is helping or hindering you and take steps to improve your concentration if needed. Read on to learn more about the warning signs and find out how to improve focus and concentration. SIGNS OF AN INABILITY TO FOCUS AND CONCENTRATE IN ADULTS An inability to focus and concentrate may show itself in adults in many ways. If any of the following sounds like you, there's a chance you're struggling with focus and concentration: You forget things almost immediately after they happen and require frequent reminders. You frequently fidget or change positions in your chair when sitting for an extended period. You find it hard to sort through your thoughts. You often misplace things. You struggle to make quick decisions. You quickly become frustrated and distracted when performing challenging tasks. You get physically or mentally exhausted when performing complex tasks. You frequently make simple mistakes at work. You turn work in at the last possible moment or frequently miss deadlines. WHAT CAUSES PROBLEMS WITH FOCUS AND CONCENTRATION? Many things can lead to problems with focus and concentration, such as: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders Poor sleep or a lack of sleep Feelings of hunger High levels of stress Restless leg syndrome Neurological disorders Some prescription medications Poor working environment filled with distractions CONSEQUENCES OF LACK OF FOCUS IN BUSINESS A lack of focus can be especially damaging in business. Struggling to maintain focus can lead to the following consequences: Negative perceptions. If you are forgetful or make mistakes frequently, your supervisor and coworkers may get the impression that you don't care about your work and aren't committed to the team's success. Poor productivity and work quality. An inability to concentrate can make your productivity suffer. In addition, the quality of your work may be much lower than that of your peers. Reduced responsibilities and demotions. Frequent errors and missed deadlines could result in reduced responsibilities and even potential demotions. Lack of opportunities. You may be passed over for promotions or kept off of teams responsible for important projects. Increased stress. Simply concentrating to perform tasks can dramatically increase stress levels if you suffer from a lack of focus. Stress can negatively impact your health by lowering your immunity, interfering with your sleep, and even causing digestive issues. SUPPORTING MENTAL PERFORMANCE WITH NOOTROPIC SUPPLEMENTS FOR FOCUS AND CONCENTRATION Nootropic supplements may provide a solution for lack of focus and an inability to concentrate. These supplements contain herbal extracts and other ingredients that may positively impact the mind. Although more research is needed to prove their effectiveness, there is anecdotal and early clinical evidence that the right ones can enhance focus and concentration for some individuals. BEST SUPPLEMENTS FOR FOCUS AND CONCENTRATION Some of the best nootropics for focus and concentration include: Caffeine. Found in coffee, tea and chocolate, this natural substance acts as a stimulant, energizing the nervous system. As a result, it may curb feelings of fatigue and increase your level of alertness so that you can better concentrate. Antioxidants. These nutrients found in many foods and drinks like wine, grapes, and blueberries have been shown to neutralize harmful particles in the environment called free radicals. Numerous studies have confirmed that free radicals can cause oxidative damage to brain cells. Over time, these effects could interfere with brain function. Because they break down free radicals, antioxidants may protect brain cells to help your mind function at its best as you age. Cocoa bean. In addition to being rich in antioxidants, cocoa beans contain a natural chemical called theobromine. Studies have found that the substance may help to enhance blood flow to the brain and, in turn, could increase concentration and focus. Arjuna. An Ayurvedic herb, arjuna has been used for centuries to support brain health and function. Early research suggests that the herb may enhance circulation and provide antioxidant protection. Fish oils. These supplements derived from fish are rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to play an important role in brain function. TIPS FOR USING NOOTROPICS FOR CONCENTRATION AND FOCUS Follow these tips to make the most of nootropic supplements: Talk to your medical provider before taking any new supplement. Follow the directions for use provided by the manufacturer. Allow several weeks to see results, as most products don't lead to changes overnight. Complement the actions of nootropics with work behavior changes, such as keeping your phone off your desktop or wearing headphones to block out noise.
ASHWAGANDHA SUPPLEMENT BENEFITS FOR MEN
Men have their own unique needs for health and well-being, and increasingly, men are turning to testosterone supplements and other dietary supplements to help them achieve their healthy living goals. Many experts recommend ashwagandha for men who are wondering how to increase testosterone naturally and those striving to build muscle mass. Read on to learn more about potential ashwagandha benefits. WHAT IS ASHWAGANDHA ROOT? Ashwagandha root is a medicinal herb that has been used in the natural healing practice of Ayurveda for thousands of years to treat various conditions and diseases. An ashwagandha supplement is a dietary supplement that contains a concentrated extract of ashwagandha root. POTENTIAL ASHWAGANDHA BENEFITS FOR MEN Scientific studies are only now beginning to assess potential ashwagandha health benefits, but early research has shown promising results in several areas. POSSIBLE TESTOSTERONE BOOSTER Studies into the connection of ashwagandha and testosterone have revealed that the herb may have the potential to increase the key male sex hormone levels. As a result, men with low testosterone levels due to age, stress, and health conditions may benefit from taking a supplement. Some symptoms of low testosterone include: Erectile dysfunction Lack of libido Fatigue Increase in body fat Mood swings Men hoping to address these symptoms may benefit from the potential ashwagandha testosterone-boosting benefits. Some men rely on supplements on their own, while others choose to use them in conjunction with testosterone replacement therapy prescribed by their doctors. POTENTIAL FOR STRESS RELIEF A clinical survey conducted by the American Psychological Association revealed that 45% of men report becoming angry and irritable due to stress. More than a third of men reported experiencing fatigue, anxiety, and lack of motivation due to stress. If you're under persistent pressure due to work or relationships, you may be familiar with these symptoms. Stress can also negatively affect your sleep and has been shown to impair the immune system and negatively impact the heart. Due to the adverse effects of prolonged stress, stress relief is essential to men's health, and there is evidence to suggest that ashwagandha may have a role to play in diminishing stress. Studies have revealed that ashwagandha may act as an adaptogen, a substance that helps defend the body from the physical effects of stress. Specifically, ashwagandha may lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. It has also been shown to alleviate anxiety and depression, which can be worsened by stress. POSSIBLE FERTILITY BOOST In Ayurveda, ashwagandha is a common remedy for male infertility. Some early studies provide evidence that the herb may be beneficial for men struggling to get their partners pregnant. One study showed that men who took ashwagandha had increased sperm and greater sperm motility than those who didn't. Another that followed men taking ashwagandha for stress for three months found that 14% of participants' partners got pregnant. MAY HELP WITH MUSCLE GROWTH Ashwagandha muscle growth benefits have been widely reported. Those who believe in a connection between ashwagandha and muscle gain hold that the herb's potential testosterone-boosting benefits could help men see better results from their workout efforts. Several studies have indicated that ashwagandha helps to enhance body composition. One found that men who took 750 to 1250 milligrams of the supplement daily were stronger after 30 days. MAY SUPPORT CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, making cardiovascular health essential to men's health. Early studies suggest that ashwagandha may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels to promote cardiovascular health. In addition, ashwagandha's potential stress-fighting benefits may further help the heart. In addition, those who see more significant gains from the gym due to possible ashwagandha muscle recovery benefits may feel more motivated to keep up with their heart-healthy exercise routines. MAY IMPROVE ON-THE-JOB PERFORMANCE Men focused on success in their careers may also benefit from taking an ashwagandha supplement. Clinical studies suggest that the herb may act as an antioxidant that helps protect brain cells from damage due to environmental free radicals. In addition, there is some evidence to suggest that taking ashwagandha may improve memory function and enhance concentration to boost mental performance. HOW AND WHEN TO TAKE ASHWAGANDHA Before taking an ashwagandha supplement, consult your medical provider to determine if it is safe for you to take the herb. When to take the supplement depends mainly on your personal preferences. If you're using it for workout support, you may wish to take it earlier in the day. If stress relief is your primary goal, it may make more sense to take it at night. Follow the ashwagandha dosage recommended by the supplement manufacturer unless your medical provider gives you other instructions.
