14 Foods That Protect Gut Health and Slow Biological Aging by Super Age

 Do you really think your doctor is competent enough to get this into your diet protocol?  I bet you don't even have a diet protocol, do you?

Do you prefer your doctor, hospital and board of director's incompetence NOT KNOWING? OR NOT DOING? Your choice; let them be incompetent or demand action!

Let's see how long your stroke medical 'professionals' HAVE BEEN COMPLETELY FUCKING INCOMPETENT IN THIS! And they still have a job after over a decade of incompetence?

cranberries (15 posts to June 2013)

fermented foods (7 posts to May 2016)

coffee (389 posts to February 2012)

green tea (29 posts to September 2012)

fiber intake (13 posts to May 2013)

14 Foods That Protect Gut Health and Slow Biological Aging

What happens to your heart, immune, and urinary health when you drink cranberry juice regularly

 Did your incompetent? doctor miss prescribing this over a decade ago?

  Cranberry juice consumption may protect against cardiovascular disease  October 2015

 

Drinking low-calorie cranberry juice may help lower risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke July 2015 

Do you prefer your doctor, hospital and board of director's incompetence NOT KNOWING? OR NOT DOING?

What happens to your heart, immune, and urinary health when you drink cranberry juice regularly

Medically reviewed by Aviv Joshua, MS, RDN

Cranberry juice may prevent UTIs by stopping bacteria from sticking to bladder cells.
• Drinking cranberry juice supplies your body with vitamins C, E, and K.
• You can add cranberry juice to smoothies, iced tea, salad dressing, and oatmeal.

Cranberries help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and support heart health. Their antioxidants decrease harmful bacteria's attachment to bladder cells.

1. May Protect Against Heart Disease

Drinking low-calorie cranberry juice may decrease heart disease risk factors like:

• Blood pressure
• C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation)
• Fasting blood sugar
• Triglycerides (blood fats)

2. May Boost Immune Function

In addition to its antibacterial properties, drinking cranberry juice may increase the number of immune cells. They serve as a first line of defense against infections like the common cold and flu.

Though cranberry juice doesn't prevent illness, it may significantly decrease cold and flu symptoms. This may be partially due to cranberry juice being high in vitamin C, an antioxidant essential for immune function.

The polyphenols in cranberries also block viruses from reproducing and stimulate the immune system.

3. Prevents Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Regularly drinking cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs. Cranberries contain antioxidants called proanthocyanidins. These antioxidants prevent bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli) from attaching to bladder cells, which lower your risk of infection.

Drinking cranberry juice may be more effective at preventing UTIs than taking cranberry capsules or tablets. Juice also provides hydration, which may play a role.

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Though cranberry juice may help prevent UTIs, it doesn't treat an existing infection.

4. May Reduce Ulcer Risk

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers and increase your risk of stomach cancer. Many people have this bacteria in their stomach.

Drinking cranberry juice twice a day can decrease H. pylori infection. Some people will need antibiotics or antimicrobial supplements to treat it.

5. May Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy cells. It leads to painful swelling in your joints.

A 2019 study showed that people with RA who drank 2 cups of cranberry juice a day had a significant decrease in anti-CCP antibodies. These proteins mistakenly attack healthy tissue.

6. May Support Gut Health

The gut microbiome is the community of microbes (such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses) that live in your gut. These bacteria produce vitamins, break down food, and support immunity.

Antioxidants in cranberry juice can have a positive impact on your gut microbiome. They lower inflammation, decrease harmful bacteria, and feed beneficial gut bacteria.

In adults with obesity, drinking cranberry juice may ease inflammation and constipation.

7. May Promote Vaginal Health

Vaginal dysbiosis is a bacterial imbalance in the vagina. It happens when helpful bacteria become outnumbered by pathogenic (infection-causing) bacteria.

This type of imbalance can lead to bacterial vaginosis (BV). One small 2021 study on postmenopausal women showed that drinking just one glass of cranberry juice a day for two weeks significantly decreased pathogenic bacteria.

Cranberry juice's ability to support gut bacterial balance also supports the vagina. Bacteria can move from the gut to the vagina.

Cranberry Juice Nutrition Facts

One cup (8 ounces) of unsweetened cranberry juice provides:

• Calories: 116   
• Fat: 0.329 grams (g)
• Sodium: 5.06 milligrams (mg)   
• Carbohydrates: 30.9 g
• Fiber: 0.253 g
• Sugars: 30.6 g
• Protein: 0.987 g
• Vitamin C: 23.5 mg, 26% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin E: 3.04 mg, 20% of the DV 
• Vitamin K: 12.9 mcg, 10% of the DV

Vitamins C and E both act as antioxidants, and vitamin K supports bone health:

• Vitamin C supports healthy skin, bones, and connective tissue, promotes healing, and helps the body absorb iron.
• Vitamin E supports immune function, form red blood cells, prevent blood clots, and helps the body use vitamin K.
• Vitamin K helps maintain strong bones. It's also needed to make proteins in the liver that allow blood to clot properly.

Cranberries are rich in polyphenol antioxidants, including phenolic acids, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. These compounds have antimicrobial effects, support immune and brain health, and protect against cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

What You Should Know Before Drinking Cranberry Juice

Cranberry products are generally safe. However, they can cause stomach upset and diarrhea if consumed in high amounts, particularly in young children.

There's little direct evidence about the safety of cranberry juice during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It's generally considered safe, but it's best to speak with a doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding—especially if you're taking it to treat a condition like a UTI.

There's conflicting research about whether cranberry interacts with the blood thinner Coumadin (warfarin).

People with UTI symptoms may see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. It's best to not use cranberry products in place of other UTI treatments.

How To Enjoy Cranberry Juice

When choosing a cranberry juice, you may opt for an unsweetened product over one with added sugars (like cranberry juice cocktail).

Without added sugars, pure cranberry juice can be bitter. You may prefer it mixed with another fruit juice or sparkling water.

You can use cranberry juice in many ways, such as:

• Blend cranberry juice into a smoothie with sweeter fruit like banana or dates.
• Add it to iced tea.
• Use it in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.
• Freeze cranberry juice into popsicles.
• Use it as the liquid in oatmeal or overnight oats.  

Read the original article on Health

5 Foods with More Resveratrol Than a Glass of Red Wine, According to Dietitians

 Ask your competent? doctor if supplements can provide the same benefits as food or wine.  Doesn't know the answer, I'd be questioning the competence level of your stroke medical 'professionals'!

You can check out why your doctor should be prescribing resveratrol in these.

• resveratrol (60 posts to January 2012)

• resveratrol analogues (1 post to November 2017)

• resveratrol preconditioning (2 posts to July 2015)

5 Foods with More Resveratrol Than a Glass of Red Wine, According to Dietitians

These surprising foods provide a serious boost of antioxidants without the risk of a hangover

Reviewed by Dietitian Kelli McGrane, M.S., RD

Getty Images. EatingWell design.

Key Points

    Resveratrol is an antioxidant that’s been linked with benefits for blood pressure, diabetes and weight management.

    Several foods, including grapes, walnuts and blueberries, are a good source of resveratrol.

    For additional nutrients, it’s best to consume resveratrol through foods rather than wine.

Red wine is often touted for its heart-healthy benefits, which is largely thanks to its high concentration of resveratrol—a polyphenol with potent antioxidant properties. “Studies suggest [resveratrol] may be helpful in lowering blood pressure, promoting weight loss and improving blood sugar levels by boosting insulin production and enhancing insulin’s effectiveness,” says Anne Danahy, MS, RDN. 

However, you don’t have to drink red wine to reap the benefits of resveratrol. There are several food sources of this potent antioxidant, including nuts and some dark blue or red fruits. “They might not all match red wine gram for gram, but they come packed with antioxidants, fiber and way more nutritional perks—minus the hangover,” says Ghida Arnaout, RD. Here are five foods to buy during your next grocery store run to boost your resveratrol intake.

1. Grapes

“Grapes and red wine are among the highest sources of resveratrol,” says Danahy. Specifically, resveratrol is found in high concentrations in the skin of grapes, which is why white and rosé wines contain far less resveratrol than their red wine counterparts. One hundred grams of red wine provides anywhere from 320 to 1535 micrograms (mcg) of resveratrol, while grapes contain 150 to 781 mcg per 100 grams., However, Danahy emphasizes that the amount of resveratrol can vary in foods (including grapes) depending on multiple factors including growing conditions, time of harvest and plant variety. We love adding grapes to chicken salad or enjoying them as a snack with cheese and crackers.

2. Walnuts

One of the most surprising sources of resveratrol is walnuts. These heart-healthy nuts are a top source of this antioxidant with a similar amount of resveratrol per 100 grams that’s found in red wine. “Besides resveratrol, walnuts are also notable for having high levels of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats, along with vitamin E, other polyphenols and prebiotic fiber,” says Danahy. You can enjoy walnuts in a trail mix, on top of oatmeal or other hot cereal or blended into a sauce. 

3. Blueberries

Grapes aren’t the only fruit with resveratrol. Blueberries are another top source of the antioxidant, though the amount varies significantly depending on growing conditions, variety and processing. And while not as concentrated in resveratrol as grapes or red wine, blueberries are considered a good source of the antioxidant. They also offer a host of other important nutrients for heart health, including 3.5 grams of fiber per cup. They also contain potassium, vitamin C, vitamin K and several other essential vitamins and minerals. Blueberries are incredibly versatile, working well in smoothies, hot or baked oatmeal, baked goods, jams, sauces and salads. They’re also delicious on their own or as part of a cheese plate. 

4. Cranberries

Fresh cranberries aren’t as readily available as other berries, so you may need to venture into the frozen food aisle to stock up on this nutrient-dense fruit. Cranberries are not only rich in antioxidants, including resveratrol, but they also contain a variety of other health-promoting nutrients, like vitamin C and fiber., Like blueberries, the concentration of resveratrol in cranberries can vary significantly depending on growing conditions, variety and processing. Try cranberries in a smoothie, cooked down into a sauce or dried in a trail mix. You can also add cranberries to a dip for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

5. Peanuts

    The humble peanut is an unexpected source of resveratrol in the diet. Like other foods, the amount varies depending on growing conditions and processing. Peanuts also contribute protein, fiber and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats., Try peanuts in a trail mix or roasted with extra spices.

What to Know About Red Wine Consumption

Resveratrol offers health benefits, but red wine may not be the best choice to up your intake. “While red wine does contain some beneficial compounds like resveratrol, the health risks of alcohol often outweigh the potential perks, especially when it’s not consumed in strict moderation,” says Arnaout. Plus, the health benefits of resveratrol are typically seen when consumed in levels that are difficult to get from food or drinks alone. As Danahy points out, research suggests you need to consume about 1 gram (1,000 mg) per day to get a significant health benefit—an amount that’s virtually impossible to get through foods and beverages. According to one study, you’d need to consume 4.2 liters of red wine daily to reach this amount.

Ask your competent? doctor how you are supposed to get the necessary resveratrol.

 To get to the research level that mice had in research; 

According to researchers, this amount of resveratrol equated to the amount found in approximately 1,000 bottles of red wine. (Is that a daily dose of 1000 bottles of wine?)

This fruit is a real help for cardiovascular diseases

FYI. But more important is the rehabilitation program mentioned. If you have a competent doctor and hospital that program  would have been put in place at least 8 years ago.

Cardiac rehab program recommended for stroke patients October 2013

The latest here:

This fruit is a real help for cardiovascular diseases

James16 hours ago

0 31 2 minutes read

Two very serious pathologies, which cause many victims. Research is fundamental, but also proper nutrition

Strokes and heart attacks are two of the most common causes of death. Two evils that affect thousands of people every day. To defend oneself, prevention is very important. And, in this sense, do you know that there is a fruit that has portentous properties against these pathologies? We find it on supermarket shelves, but we often underestimate it.

Strokes and heart attacks (web source)

For those who survive a stroke, the excess risk of death within a year remains high, but can be reduced by up to 76% with a cardiac rehabilitation program. The two issues, in fact, are often very connected. Obviously, people of a certain age and overweight are most at risk.

On this point, the first results of an ongoing study at the JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute in Edison (USA), published in the Journal of Stroke & Cerebrovascular Disease, are interesting. The researchers put a group of patients on a rehabilitation program corresponding to 36 cardiovascular training sessions at regular intervals, psychological, nutritional and educational support for risk factors such as smoking and physical activity.

Of the 450 patients in this subgroup, 246 completed the program and four died within one year of stroke. Among the 203 patients who did not undergo rehabilitation, deaths were 14. The analysis of the data made it possible to estimate a 76% reduction in the risk of death within one year related to the previous stroke among those who followed the rehabilitation program compared to those who have not followed him.

The study also found that participants in the stroke recovery program experienced improvement in other functions. In particular, their cardiovascular capacity increased by 78%, but benefits were also found on motor skills, on self-care and in the communicative / cognitive area.

The fruit with miraculous effects

Therefore, medical and scientific research is very important. But prevention is also very important. Which can be done through cyclical and constant checks and screening. But not only. As we all know, in fact, nutrition also has a great influence.

And there is a fruit that we often find on supermarket shelves. But that we underestimate. And we are wrong, because it has very important characteristics that counteract the onset of strokes and heart attacks.

Cranberries (web source)

We are talking about the redberry. Both whole, and in the form of juice, they have very important properties, reducing the risk of hypertension, but also of urinary tract infections and some cancers. Blueberries, in fact, are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. And thanks to polyphenols, they counteract the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

For this reason, they are also very useful in combating strokes and heart attacks. It is a very underrated fruit, which, moreover, is also very good and dietary, since half a cup of juice contains only 20 calories.

Source link in Italian if you prefer.

 

Daily consumption of cranberry improves endothelial function in healthy adults: a double blind randomized controlled trial

I'm not looking for cranberry powder, craisans likely but will have to translate 100 grams of fresh cranberries to dried cranberries.

Never mind, this is for healthy adults,not us and with NO stroke leadership there will never be followup research for us.

Daily consumption of cranberry improves endothelial function in healthy adults: a double blind randomized controlled trial

Christian Heiss ,   Geoffrey Istas ,   Rodrigo Feliciano,   Timon Weber,   Brian Wang ,   Claudia Favari,   Pedro Mena,   Daniele Del Rio  and  Ana Rodriguez-Mateos  

Abstract

Background: Previous studies indicate cardiovascular health benefits of cranberry juice consumption. However, whether daily consumption of whole cranberries will have sustained vascular benefits in healthy individuals is currently unknown. Objective: To investigate the vascular effects of acute and daily consumption of freeze dried whole cranberry in healthy men and how effects relate to circulating cranberry (poly)phenol metabolites. Methods: A double-blind, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial was conducted in 45 healthy male adults randomly allocated to 1 month daily consumption of either cranberry (9 g powder equivalent to 100 g of fresh cranberries, 525 mg total (poly)phenols) or control (9 g powder, no (poly)phenols). Flow-mediated dilation (FMD, primary outcome), pulse wave velocity (PWV), aortic augmentation index (AIx), blood pressure, heart rate, blood lipids, and blood glucose were assessed at baseline and at 2 h on day 1 and after 1 month. Plasma and 24-h-urine were analyzed using targeted quantitative LC-MS methods including 137 (poly)phenol metabolites. Results: Cranberry consumption significantly increased FMD at 2 h and 1-month (1.1% (95%CI: 1.1%, 1.8%); ptreatment=<0.001; ptreatmentxtime=0.606) but not PWV, AIx, blood pressure, heart rate, blood lipids, and glucose. Of the 56 and 74 (poly)phenol metabolites quantified in plasma and urine, 13 plasma and 13 urinary metabolites significantly increased 2 h post-consumption and on day 1, respectively, while 4 plasma and 13 urinary metabolites were significantly higher after 1-month of cranberry consumption, in comparison with control. A multi-variable stepwise linear regression analysis showed that plasma cinnamic acid-4’-glucuronide, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid-3-sulfate, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 3’-hydroxycinnamic acid, and 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid were significant independent predictors of 2 h FMD effects (R2=0.71), while 3’-hydroxycinnamic acid, 4-methoxycinnamic acid-3’-glucuronide, 3-(4’-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid 3’-sulfate, and 3-(4’-methoxyphenyl)propanoic acid 3’-glucuronide predicted the 1-month FMD effects (R2=0.52). Conclusions: Acute and daily consumption of whole cranberry powder for 1 month improves vascular function in healthy men and this is linked with specific metabolite profiles in plasma.

• This article is part of the themed collection: Food & Function HOT Articles 2022

 

20 Surprising Foods That Benefit A More Heart Healthy Lifestyle

For those that don't have amounts DEMAND YOUR DOCTOR come up with the protocol amounts. Your hospital dietician should have created protocols on all these foods decades ago assuming that the board of directors set the right goals for the stroke department. If they didn't the board of directors needs to be fired.

20 Surprising Foods That Benefit A More Heart Healthy Lifestyle 

Chickpeas

Chickpeas contain such ingredients as high fiber, potassium, and vitamins C and B-6.  Each of these nutrients has been shown to support heart health significantly.  The high fiber that appears in significant amounts in chickpeas has been shown in studies to also considerably lower the amount of total cholesterol in the bloodstream, which in turn is known to aid in decreasing the risk of heart disease.  In one cited study, it was found that those individuals who reportedly consumed 4,069 mg per day of potassium were shown to have a 49 percent lower risk of death caused by heart disease.

Coffee

It seems every other day there is a new study out that touts the benefits of coffee on the human body.  For years researchers have said that coffee aids in the prevention of heart failure, stroke, and even lowering the risk of mortality.  The active ingredient in coffee that makes it so beneficial for heart health is that of the caffeine.  In recent findings, scientists have concluded that the caffeine present in coffee does indeed protect us against heart damage.  Studies have determined that the caffeine works in conjunction with the mitochondria—the powerhouse if you will—within our cells.  Studies have shown that the caffeine slows down the cell division in the body, which can be most crucial to preventing cardiovascular diseases.

Cranberries

Often known to many as one of the classes of foods referred to as “superfoods,’ cranberries are considered one of the most healthful foods available.  Native to North America, cranberries are farmed across Canada and the Northern US.  Registering high in nutrients and antioxidants, cranberries have been linked to aiding in the decreasing of blood pressure—which in turn supports overall cardiovascular health.  In recent studies, data has suggested that the polyphenols—present in the cranberries themselves—may actually help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.  This reduction is achieved by the prevention of platelet build-up on the walls of blood vessels, as well as the reduction of blood pressure through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Figs

Studies over the years have shown one thing to remain true—deaths due to heart disease drop with each additional serving of fruit.  Included in that study is the carotenoid-containing fruits better known as figs.  Figs, like many other fruits that mother nature has provided, are nutrient dense—containing a generous amount of fiber, vitamins, and potassium.  They are also chock full of plague-fighting potent polyphenols.  When working towards preventing, or even day to day fighting off of heart disease, this little gem is definitely one ally you will want in your arsenal.  Figs are also known to immunize LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, against the attack of free radicals as well protecting against the onset of atherosclerosis—an abnormality in the inner layer of the arterial walls.

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds have been considered a prized ingredient for centuries, due to their health-protective properties.  In recent years, flax seeds have joined the elite class of foods—superfoods that is.  Each and every day, more and more research points to just how beneficial these little gems are to our health.  Flax seeds are nutrient-rich, with only one tablespoon containing a generous amount of protein and heart-healthy fiber and omega 3 fatty acids.  In animal studies, one of the fatty acids present in flax seeds, ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) showed to prevent the deposit of cholesterol into the blood vessels of the heart, as well as aiding in reducing arterial inflammation as well.

Tumeric

For centuries, Tumeric has been hailed in India as a wonder spice.  It is not only the ingredient that gives curry its color, but it is also packed will all types of medicinal aids.  In recent decades, science has been seeing what the India culture had known for centuries—there are indeed medicinal properties within  Tumeric.  The compounds of use in heart health are called curcuminoids, the most notable of which is Curcumin.  As it would happen, Curcumin is the main active ingredient within Tumeric, not only presenting as a potent antioxidant but also has what many terms as powerful anti-inflammatory significance, which has shown to aid in the prevention of heart disease.  When considering a Curcumin supplement, keep in mind that the most effective choices are those that contain piperine, as this substance increased the herbs ability to absorb into the bloodstream.

Ginger

Recent research points to the possibility that ginger could possibly play a significant role in the maintaining of a healthy heart.  In fact, ginger has been used by many cultures for centuries to aid in the treatment of various cardiovascular conditions.  It is believed that ginger does indeed help in the reduction in the risk of heart attack and stroke.  Ginger works in the same manner as the current NSAID’s on the market.  The natural in nature herb acts to block the very genes that are responsible for causing inflammation to begin with.  Other studies state that ginger may very well aid in the lowering of blood cholesterol as well as preventing the clotting of blood.  When it comes to heart health, the anti-coagulating properties of ginger is a significant aid for those with heart disease.  The unobstructed flow of blood throughout the body can significantly reduce the possibility of heart attacks or even strokes due to blood clots forming.

Grapefruit

With its nutrient-packed content of antioxidants and fiber, grapefruit has been shown to aid in lessening the risk for heart disease.  With the regular consumption of grapefruit, it is believed that individuals will see a reduction in the factors related to heart diseases, such as high blood pressure and cholesterol.  One study showed that grapefruit had a significant effect on the decrease in total overall cholesterol counts, as well as LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels.  The reason that grapefruit is so beneficial to heart health is based on the fair amount of potassium that the fruit contains.   Potassium is an essential mineral in the maintaining of heart health overall, and when the adequate intake is achieved can also help with the prevention of high blood pressure, known to affect heart health significantly.

Green Tea

There are many factors involved in overall heart health.  One heart disease factor is that of atherosclerosis or the building up of plaque that adheres to the arterial vessel walls.  The problem with atherosclerosis is that before you really notice any symptoms, the damage is pretty much done.  According to a new study, a molecule that is found in green tea can actually aid in the prevention of atherosclerosis, which is believed to be a significant contributor to both heart attacks and stroke.  In a study conducted in 2006, those participants that stated they drank at least 5 cups of green tea a day, showed significantly less cardiovascular problems than those who said they only drank one green tea a day.  In subsequent studies, green tea has shown to play a significant role in the lowering of cholesterol as well as the prevention of the risk of stroke.

Kidney Beans

Kidney beans are chock full of nutritional fiber, and as such are one of the best sources for lowering your cholesterol.  A study that was published in the Archives of Internal Medicine confirmed that eating such high fiber foods as kidney beans do indeed aid in the prevention of heart disease. However, kidney beans help with heart health by way of more than their fiber content.  They are also rich with significant amounts of folate and magnesium.  Folate is responsible for lower levels of homocysteine, which elevated int eh blood are precursors to heart attack, stroke, and even peripheral vascular disease.  Through the study, it was estimated that consuming the 100% of Folates recommended daily failure would, in turn, reduce the possibility of a heart attack by 10%.

Oranges

The nutrients that are present in oranges have shown to provide a rather wide range of health benefits.  The American Heart Association has stated that by increasing the consumption of amounts of a compound found in citrus, such as oranges, can, in fact, lower the risk of ischemic stroke in women.  Oranges are high in potassium, which in turn helps reduce the development and problems associated with high blood pressure.  Worth noting is that a high potassium intake, over 4700mg daily, how show to reduce the overall risk of mortality due to heart health conditions by as much as 20 percent.

Kale

Kale has, in recent years, been hailed as pretty much a miracle food.  This leafy vegetable offers a rather wide range of health benefits, with cardiovascular and heart health amongst the list.  Kale is chock full of potassium and fiber, nutrients that work to maintain good heart health, as well as other areas of the cardiovascular system.  Potassium, in studies done, has shown to play a significant part in the overall reduction of the risk of heart disease.  Along with the decrease in the risk of heart disease, potassium is also associated with the risk reduction, if not prevention, of stroke.  Finally, potassium has also shown to aid in the dilation of the blood vessels, which in turn helps in more effective and efficient blood flow.

Garlic

Admittedly, garlic is not the most appealing smell there is, but when it comes to heart health, it more than gets the job done.  Studies have shown that when used in a supplement form, garlic has made a significant impact in lowering the blood pressure in those suffering from high blood pressure.  In fact, some data shows that garlic supplements may be as effective, if not more effective than those doctor prescribed medications.  Garlic also appears to have a significant effect on reducing total as well as LDL cholesterol—by 10-15%.  Studies show that garlic will work on lowering the “bad” cholesterol, but in turn, seems not to affect “good” cholesterol in any significant amount.

Red Wine

It has always been said that red wine, when consumed in moderation, is suitable for heart health.  It is believed that the alcohol in red wine, coupled with antioxidants, work in conjunction to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease—which in turn is responsible for causing the majority of heart attacks.  Although the reason behind the benefits of red wine in heart health is still being studied, on theory leans towards that fact that the antioxidants aid in the increase of HDL which is known as the “good” cholesterol, which is responsible for protecting against the buildup of cholesterol.  A polyphenol in red wine, known as resveratrol, has been getting a lot of press in recent years.  This substance is suspected of actually helping in the protection of blood vessel wall lining, which can reduce the risk of problems of a cardiovascular nature.

Chocolate

A myth that needs to be set straight is that not all chocolate has proven beneficial to heart health—on dark chocolate.  With that said, studies out of England have shown that those individuals who indulge in 3.5 ounces of dark chocolate per day, which is roughly a little more than two Hershey bars, result in a lower rate of heart disease than those who ward off chocolate altogether.  The belief is that the acting nutrients are those of flavonoids—which are present in the cacao bean—which is powdered and used in chocolate.  Flavonoids have a multitude of benefits, including lowering blood pressure, increasing blood flow to the brain and the heart, and working in preventing blood clots.

Salmon

Scientists will state that if you are worried the least bit about heart disease, the intake of 1-2 servings of fish each week will significantly lower your odds of dying from a heart attack.  The reason quite simply being the omega-3 fatty acids that are present in the fish themselves.  These unsaturated fats have long believed to be beneficial in reducing the risk of mortality from heart disease.  Recent research has gleaned on the fact that it may very well not only be the omega-3 acids but the combination of other nutrients as well in fish that have a substantial effect on over heart health.

Lentils

These tasty legumes seem to be coming into their own as of late.  However, they have always been known to be a valuable, high-end source of soluble fiber, which has shown to aid in the lowering of cholesterol, which in turn helps to keep the vessel and artery walls clean and free of buildup.  This, in turn, has shown to reduce the chances of both heart disease and stroke significantly.  Lentils in their essence are an excellent source of folate and magnesium, which as we learned above are very essential nutrients in maintaining overall heart health.  Magnesium acts to maintain and improve blood flow, distributing oxygen and nutrients through the body.  Low levels of magnesium have actually been shown to be directly associated with the development of many types of heart disease.

Almonds

Considered one of the most popular tree nuts worldwide, almonds are chock full of nutritious, healthy fats and antioxidants, while at the same time offering an excellent source of Vitamin E, which has been linked in studies in lower the rates of acquiring heart disease.  Almonds also aid in controlling and lowering blood pressure, one of the leading factors to heart attacks, stroke, and even kidney failure.  Recent studies have shown that a deficiency in magnesium, which is abundantly present in almonds, can have a significant effect on blood pressure, regardless of weight.  By correcting an existent deficiency, many have seen a considerable reduction in blood pressure.

Blueberries

Researchers conducted a study at King’s College, London, which showed that by eating 200 grams of blueberries every day, an individual can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 20 percent.  Data also showed that those individuals who consumed the daily intake of blueberries also experienced a reduction in their systolic blood pressure, with results mimicking those of taking prescribed blood pressure medications.  The heart health benefits come from the anthocyanins or the phytochemical within the fruit that gives it it’s blue coloring.  Contrary to previous beliefs, the impact on heart health was not from the fiber, vitamins or even minerals in the fruit, but the power of the anthocyanins instead.

Beets

Recent studies have shown that beets can aid in significantly lowering blood pressure by as much as 4-10 mmHg over the course of a few short hours.  The most beneficial effect seems to be in the systolic blood pressure, which represents the amount of pressure when the heart contracts, rather than the diastolic blood pressure which is when the heart is at rest.  The data also showed that the consumption of raw beets, rather than cooked, achieved the best results for individuals.  It is suspected that the blood pressure lowering ability may very well come from the nitrates in beets.  When ingested, your body converts the nitrates to nitric oxide, which in turn dilate blood vessels aiding in the reduction in blood pressure overall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cranberries—they're not just for Thanksgiving anymore

You'll have to ask your doctor what is the EXACT PROTOCOL to get the benefits.  I've been writing about cranberries since June 2013. That gives you an idea of how incompetent your doctor and stroke hospital are. Cranberry research from 2002 exists.  Someone needs to address such incompetency, the board of directors would be a good start.

• cranberry (1 post)
• cranberry extract (1 post)
• cranberry juice (7 posts)

Cranberries—they're not just for Thanksgiving anymore

Newswise | November 14, 2018

Amy Howell, a Rutgers expert in the health benefits of cranberries, can provide insight on this popular tart berry just in time for Thanksgiving dinner.

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For centuries, cranberries have had a reputation for boosting health, dating back to Native-Americans who used them to treat urinary tract infections as well as wounds and other ailments. In more recent years, the fruit has been found to have other potential health benefits.

How do cranberries defend against infection?

According to Howell, a specific compound in cranberries called proanthocyanidins (PACs) helps to prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract, so they can’t multiply and cause infection. This discovery by Howell and Nick Vorsa, which was published in 1998 in The New England Journal of Medicine, has led to further studies that suggest consuming cranberries regularly can help prevent certain bacterial infections. If infections are prevented, people will not need to take antibiotics, and this could lead to a subsequent reduction in the pace of large-scale antibiotic resistance development. Resistance has become a critical problem world-wide and is resulting in the inability of antibiotics to cure even simple bacterial infections.
“Often, urinary tract infections recur, requiring patients to take daily doses of antibiotics to keep infections at bay. Prolonged antibiotic use has resulted in bacterial resistance problems and left researchers searching for alternatives,” said Howell. “The compounds in cranberries may contribute to inhibiting the bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall without actually killing them, so they prevent infections without contributing to bacterial resistance problems. Consuming cranberry products regularly can help prevent urinary tract infections but has also been implicated in suppressing bacteria that cause stomach ulcers.”

What are the antioxidant benefits?

Howell said that since cranberries contain antioxidants, they may also help to lower oxidative stress, an imbalance that causes numerous chronic diseases, including inflammation, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
“The antioxidants in cranberries help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation and boost immunity, all of which are important not only in preventing urinary tract infections but in improving heart health. Research suggests that these cranberry compounds can reduce oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, increase HDL (good) cholesterol, increase the flexibility of arteries and reduce inflammation—all important risk factors for heart disease,” she said.

How should we consume cranberries to maximize their benefits?

With Thanksgiving nearing, many people may ask themselves whether they can best gain these health benefits through cranberry sauce—or perhaps an adult cranberry beverage. “About a half cup of sauce or dried berries, a 10-ounce glass of cranberry juice drink (sweetened or unsweetened, with at least 25% cranberry) or certain dried encapsulated supplements will help you obtain the beneficial effects,” Howell said. “Even a cranberry cocktail can give you a health boost as long as you add enough cranberry juice.”

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New link between gut microbiome and artery hardening discovered

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New link between gut microbiome and artery hardening discovered

The level of diversity of the 'good bacteria' in our digestive systems has been found to be linked to a feature of cardiovascular disease – hardening of the arteries – in new research by experts at the University of Nottingham and King's College London.

The gut microbiome is under increasing scrutiny in medical research as it is known to affect many different aspects of our health, including our metabolism and auto-immune system. A lack of diversity or range of healthy bacteria in the gut has previously been linked to various health problems, including diabetes, obesity and inflammatory stomach and bowel diseases.

Now for the first time, researchers have found a link between gut bacteria and arterial stiffening which suggests that targeting the microbiome through diet, medication and probiotics may be a way to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. The British Heart Foundation and MRC-funded research has been published in the European Heart Journal.

The gut microbiome has been implicated in a variety of potential disease mechanisms including inflammation which can predispose people to heart disease. The hardening of the arteries that happens at different rates in different people as we age, is known to be a factor in cardiovascular risk.

The researchers examined medical data from a group of 617 middle-aged female twins from the TwinsUK registry – a national registry of adult twins recruited as volunteers for data-based research. Measurements of arterial stiffening using a gold-standard measure called carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity (PWV) were analysed alongside data on the composition of the gut microbiomes of the women.

The results of the analysis revealed that there was a significant correlation in all the women between the diversity of the microbes in the gut and the health of the arteries. After adjusting for metabolic variations and blood pressure, the measure of arterial stiffness was higher in women with lower diversity of healthy bacteria in the gut. The research also identified specific microbes which were linked to a lower risk of arterial stiffening. These microbes have also previously been associated with a lower risk of obesity.

Dr. Ana Valdes, from the University of Nottingham's School of Medicine and NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, said: "We know that a substantial proportion of serious cardiovascular events like heart attacks are not explained by traditional risk factors such as obesity and smoking, particularly in younger people and in women and that arterial stiffness is related to risk in those groups. So our results reveal the first observation in humans linking the gut microbes and their products to lower arterial stiffness. It is possible that the gut bacteria can be used to detect risk of heart disease and may be altered by diet or drugs to reduce the risk."

Dr. Cristina Menni, from the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London, said: "There is considerable interest in finding ways to increase the diversity of gut microbes for other conditions such as obesity and diabetes. Our findings now suggest that finding dietary interventions to improve the healthy bacteria in the gut could also be used to reduce the risk of heart disease."

The research concludes that cardiovascular risk that is not explained by the usual risk factors could in the future be enhanced by analysing the health of the gut microbiome. This could be particularly useful in stratifying cardiovascular risk in younger people and in women. The gut microbiome could also be the target for nutrition-based health interventions – for example, a high-fibre diet is known to improve the quantity and diversity of useful microbes in the gut. In fact, the composition of the gut microbiome may contribute to the mechanism whereby dietary fibre intake influences cardiovascular risk, but more research into this mechanism is needed.

Explore further: Omega 3 helps the gut stay healthy, study finds

More information: Cristina Menni et al. Gut microbial diversity is associated with lower arterial stiffness in women, European Heart Journal (2018). DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehy226

Journal reference: European Heart Journal

Provided by: University of Nottingham