What are functional mushrooms, and do they make the world go round? Although these mushrooms don’t influence the earth’s rotation or transport you to other dimensions, they do offer exceptional adaptogenic properties. It’s not secret that there is a fungi frenzy, which can make selecting mushrooms or mushroom blends quite confusing. Which mushrooms do what and how do you know which ones you need?

What Are Functional Mushrooms?

Functional mushrooms are edible mushrooms that exhibit adaptogenic properties, which extend beyond the nutritional benefits. Adaptogens are compounds that help support the way the nervous system responds to stress. Functional mushrooms help support the body’s stress response, but they don’t stop there. Different mushrooms exhibit different nutrients and phytonutrients, but all of them contain beta glucans. These complex carbohydrates exist in the cell walls of mushrooms. According to researchers, fungal beta glucans can help improve gut health, inflammatory response, immune function, heart health, and beyond. 

The quality of the mushroom, or mushroom supplement, is just as important as knowing which mushroom to choose. Some mushroom supplements, for example, may not even contain mushrooms! They use mycelium (roots) of the mushroom, but the real benefits come from the beta glucans and other compounds in the mushroom’s fruiting body (above ground parts). So if you’ve ever considered experimenting with functional mushrooms, consider the following information your guide to adaptogenic fungi. 

Turkey Tail Mushrooms

The name comes from the fact that these mushrooms look like fanned turkey tails. They almost seem like they are out of a fairy tale book, growing on fallen logs or branches. Of all the mushrooms, turkey tails are the most researched and may help support optimal inflammatory response, cell growth, respiratory health, and liver function. There’s no need to forage any further than turkey tails if you want to reap some immune-boosting properties. 

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms

Your hair will not resemble that of a majestic male lion if you eat lion’s mane mushrooms. These functional fungi do offer majestic health properties, though. According to numerous studies, lion’s mane has positive effects on cognition and nerve growth. Other studies reveal that it may help improve overall brain and neurological health, so if you want to stay mentally sharp and focused, these fungi are your friends. 

Chaga Mushrooms

Chaga mushrooms differ from other mushrooms in that their benefits are concentrated in the mycelial mass, not the fruiting body. Chagas exhibit high antioxidant activity and support immune function and overall health. When it comes to purchasing chaga mushrooms or chaga supplements, make sure that they are chosen responsibly. You want wild-crafted mushrooms that are organic, if possible.

Cordyceps

Best known for their ability to support healthy stamina and physical energy, cordyceps have a long history of use. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cordyceps were used to support kidney and lung function. Their energy-boosting properties make them highly sought after by people, especially athletes, who want to maintain peak physical performance. You may also find that chagas help support healthy stress levels. 

Maitake Mushrooms

Historically, maitake mushrooms were used as currency in Japan. If that doesn’t say something about their value, we don’t know what does. Maitake mushrooms work to support immune function and promote cellular health, especially when combined with other mushrooms. That is why you typically find maitake and chaga mushrooms in the same mushroom blend. Sometimes, you will even see them combined with immune-supporting agents like ginger or elderberry, both of which improve the taste of the powder supplement.

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Shea butter is one of the top contenders for the best moisturizing ingredients to combat dry skin. That’s just one reason why you commonly see shea butter in various skin and hair care products. Shea butter exhibits many other health properties, though, including an ability to reduce premature wrinkles and soothe conditions like eczema. 

What Is Shea Butter?

Extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree, shea butter is rich in fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants. Shea trees are native to West Africa, and most shea butter still comes from that region. Shea butter is basically a solid oil that contains five essential fatty acids, the most present of which are stearic and oleic acids. It also contains vitamins A, D, & E in addition to phytosterols and anti-inflammatory properties. The combination of these various components in shea butter makes it an excellent product to incorporate into your beauty routine. Learn more about how shea butter benefits your skin below. 

Hydrate Your Skin

Shea butter is an emollient, meaning that it helps to seal moisture into the skin by filling in micro cracks. The essential fatty acids, including linoleic, oleic, stearic, and palmitic acids, also assist with moisturizing the skin. The skin rapidly absorbs these fatty acids, which work to restore the lipids on the skin to create more moisture. According to dermatologists, it’s best to use shea butter within a few minutes of drying off after a shower/bath. 

Promote Cell Regeneration

The body constantly makes new skin cells and gets rid of dead skin cells. Research states that you get rid of 30,000 to 40,000 old skin cells every day. The moisturizing and antioxidant properties of shea butter help promote the regeneration of new, healthy skin cells. When the skin has the right moisture balance on the surface, you have fewer dead skin cells in the way of fresh cell regeneration in the epidermis. Use shea butter to help promote this process!

Gentle For Sensitive Skin

If you have sensitive skin, you have probably experimented with many products that promised to soothe the skin. Unfortunately, the result of that experimentation was itchiness, rash, or general soreness. At the moment, there is no medical literature that documents an allergy to topical shea butter. Shea butter is gentle on all skin types, blending effortlessly into the skin to leave you with hydrated, moisturized skin. It doesn’t clog your pores or leave your skin looking oily after application. 

Protect Skin From The Sun

Although shea butter is not a sunscreen replacement, it does offer mild protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. The natural protective qualities make shea butter a great addition to other sun protection products. In addition to offering sun protection properties, shea butter is also beneficial for the after effects of sunburn. Due to the fatty acid and vitamin content, shea butter helps to soothe the skin, reduce inflammation, and accelerate the healing process. 

Reduce Dandruff

Restoring the moisture balance on the scalp is one of the most effective ways to soothe a dry and itchy scalp. According to a 2018 review, shea butter may decrease the presence of dandruff flakes or reduce the risk of flare-ups. These benefits were enhanced when combined with other moisturizers. Many researchers also believe that the anti-fungal properties of shea butter may reduce dandruff. It helps to kill spores of fungi that cause both ringworm and athlete’s foot as well. 

Reduce Skin Inflammation

The vitamins and antioxidants in shea butter offer relief to people suffering from inflammatory skin conditions like rosacea and eczema. Moisturizing with shea butter has been proven to reduce the severity of eczema symptoms, as it works to reduce dryness and relieve irritation. A small 2015 study monitored 25 participants with mild-to-moderate eczema. The results indicated that shea butter was able to alleviate the signs and symptoms of eczema. Researchers attribute this ability to the bioactive ingredients responsible for the anti-inflammatory properties. 

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After a long holiday season, during which many people deprive their bodies of nutrients, a detoxifying meal or two is necessary. In general, winter tends to deprive the body of vitamin D and exercise, two integral aspects to optimal overall health. Although freshly made juices and smoothies are essential during a detox, soups make great detox meals as well. They are easy on the digestive system and help restore good bacteria in the gut. The pre-digested nature of a blended soup also makes it easier for the body to absorb nutrients from the ingredients.

The best part about this green detox soup is that it also promotes alkalinity. Most of the ingredients are alkaline in nature, helping reduce acidity in the body. Acid is often a precursor to water retention and inflammation, so alkalizing the body works counteract the negatives of acidity. When the body is in a more alkaline state, your cells, organs, and systems in the body benefit. Plus, the green nature of this soup means that it is naturally rich in chlorophyll, which helps nourish cells with an abundance of vitamins, phytonutrients, and enzymes. This helps to naturally energize, restore, and rejuvenate the body all at the same time!

You can typically make a detox soup with a variety of seasonal ingredients. A trip to the farmer’s market is often a great option during winter because of the amazing seasonal produce that’s available. You can buy in large quantities so that you can make large batches of this detox soup. It’s great to freeze soup to keep it fresh. You can also freeze ingredients and use them later if you feel that they are going to go bad.

This soup will help you feel restored because it has an incredible nutritional profile. Whether you had a hard weekend of eating or want to start the New Year on a healthy note, this soup does the job and more. It is naturally rich in calcium, protein, antioxidants, minerals, healthy fats, and vitamins. Let us know if you add any extra ingredients to your recipe!

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Figs are popular fruits that date back to ancient times in the Middle East. They thrive in regions with mild winters around the world and are considered a backyard delicacy. There are thousands of varieties, given that figs were one of the first plants that humans cultivated. Since those times, people have used figs to help treat numerous health conditions. Figs may benefit the digestive, reproductive, endocrine, and respiratory systems, and this article aims to explore their other surprising health benefits.

What Are Figs?

The ficus tree, which bears figs, is a member of the mulberry family. Figs offer a uniquely sweet taste with a soft and chewy texture with edible seeds. Fresh figs perish easily, which is why drying them is a popular mode of preservation. They look like bulbous teardrops and are rich in natural sugars. In the days before refined sugars, ancient societies used figs as natural sweeteners. They are rich in antioxidants, potassium, complex carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Throughout history, figs have been a staple of good health in many cultures. Although some of the health benefits are merely anecdotal, various studies prove that figs help the body in many ways. Continue reading and you may find that figs can take your health to the next level. 

May Support Blood Pressure

It’s no secret that the average American consumes too much salt and processed foods, which contributes to a higher risk of high blood pressure. Often times, eating a lot of sodium-rich foods can deplete potassium levels and create an imbalance. When you eat more potassium, you can help manage blood pressure naturally. One animal study found that fig extract was able to reduce blood pressure in animals with hypertensive readings. Figs are great sources of potassium, so consider adding them to your diet if you have high blood pressure.

May Prevent Cell Damage

The antioxidant profile of figs is quite impressive, according to several research studies. These studies were able to identify phytochemical compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, in both fresh and dried figs. Darker figs have a higher antioxidant content than lighter figs, and they may contain more polyphenols than green tea. Researchers claim that antioxidants may prevent or minimize cell damage that free radicals cause. Free radicals are in environmental toxins, cigarette smoke, air pollution, and more. An overabundance of free radicals can damage cells, but consuming foods rich in antioxidants may prevent this from happening. 

May Improve Bone Health

Calcium and magnesium are two minerals that keep your bones healthy and strong. Figs happen to be excellent sources of both of these minerals. About a half-cup of dried figs contains as much calcium as a half-cup of milk. Figs also contain strontium, which is a compound that may contribute to healthier bones. A patented form of strontium is often prescribed to postmenopausal women to treat osteoporosis. 

May Improve Digestive Health

Some people consume figs to encourage a bowel movement. This is because they help to nourish the intestines and have mild laxative properties, due to the high fiber content. The fiber in figs has prebiotic properties, which feed healthy gut bacteria to promote a healthier microbiome. One study monitored people who had irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with predominant constipation (IBS-C). The participants ate figs for four months in a controlled environment, and the study concluded that figs may alleviate IBS-C symptoms. 

May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

As we mentioned earlier, figs have an impressive antioxidant profile. An accumulation of free radicals in the body can increase the risk of developing cancer, as they damage cells. One research study identified several antioxidant compounds in figs that may fight cancer. The preliminary in-vitro study found that fig extracts exhibited powerful anti-cancer activity against breast cancer cells. More research is still necessary to determine if they are effective against other types of cancer. 

May Improve Sexual Health

There are certain plants that are naturally rich in aphrodisiac properties. There are many anecdotal reports about people consuming figs to increase arousal and sexual function. One animal study tested the aphrodisiac properties of figs, cinnamon, and earth smoke in rats. The rats received a mixture of these plants and experienced an increase in sexual activity. It was, however, difficult to determine exactly which of the three plants was responsible for the boost in sexual activity. More research is necessary to determine if figs improve sexual health in humans. That being said, many doctors recommend that men with erectile dysfunction consume figs to improve the condition. 

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You can’t go anywhere without hearing about essential oils these days. They are a buzzword in the beauty community, but the reality is that they have been a staple in traditional medicine for thousands of years. After diluting essential oils in a carrier oil, you can apply them to the skin to soothe itching from eczema or even fade dark spots. 

According to several studies, certain essential oils have the ability to decrease stubborn hyperpigmentation. The way they do this is via cellular regeneration. The Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City found that essential oils remove the buildup of dead skin cells. By allowing a new fresh layer of cells to take their place, essential oils help the skin appear lighter, brighter, and healthier. 

Why Do Age Spots Develop?

Various factors contribute to the development of age spots. The sun’s UV rays, pregnancy (applicable for women), poor diet, and natural aging contribute to age spots, and they typically only occur in people over the age of 40. In regards to diet, people who don’t consume enough selenium can see an increase in the development of age spots. It’s also possible for people with low potassium levels to develop more age spots. Potassium aids with optimal growth development of healthy bodily tissues. 

The sun’s UV rays, especially during midday, can be intense for the skin. The higher the UV index, the easier it is to get burnt and damage the skin. To protect the skin from UV rays, the body produces melanin. As a result, brown spots naturally appear in certain areas. Over time, these dark spots can get worse if left unaddressed. Fortunately, many essential oils can help to naturally light the skin. 

Sandalwood Essential Oil

In aromatherapy, sandalwood is known for improving mental clarity, and it has an aphrodisiac effect on some people. It’s also a rich source of antioxidants, which fight age-related skin damage. The antiseptic and astringent properties help to clean pores and reduce inflammation from mild irritation. These same properties also help reduce the appearance of dark spots on the skin. In fact, many anti-aging skin care products contain sandalwood for this reason.

Frankincense Essential Oil

Once upon a time, people referred to frankincense oil as “liquid gold.” Frankincense essential oil works to encourage cell turnover and improve skin elasticity. Unlike traditional retinol, frankincense oil helps with cellular regeneration without causing dryness or damage. According to certain studies, frankincense essential oil may also reduce the appearance of liver spots and stretch marks. It may even curb the development of wrinkles!

Lemon Essential Oil

If you want to even out skin tone, start incorporating lemon essential oil into your skin care routine. It exhibits natural bleaching effects that help to lighten dark spots on the skin. Because citrus oils are phototoxic, the skin can become very sensitive or irritated after application. That is why you must dilute lemon oil in a carrier oil and spot test before applying liberally. Lastly, do not apply lemon essential oil and then go out in the sun, otherwise you may experience darker skin.

DIY Serum For Age Spots

Ingredients:

• 1/2 ounce pomegranate seed oil
• 1/2 ounce apricot kernel oil
• 8 drops frankincense essential oil
• 4 drops sandalwood essential oil
• 2 drops lemon essential oil

Instructions:

• Add all of the ingredients to an amber glass bottle in the order that they are listed. Shake gently to combine. 
• As a suggestion, it’s best if your amber glass bottle has a dropper top. This makes application much easier. 
• Massage a small amount of this oil mixture on the affected areas in the morning and at night to help get rid of age spots. 

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Health experts found another troubling link between COVID-19 and how it affects the body. The SARS-CoV-2 virus can cause blood clots and pneumonia, but new research links COVID-19 infection to possible diabetes development. Research confirmed this by finding an increase in new cases of diabetes within the last year. 

COVID-19 infection can cause sever inflammation throughout the body, wreaking havoc on major organs. According to two new studies conducted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), SARS-CoV-2 can target and impair the body’s insulin-producing cells. As a result this can increase the risk of diabetes. When there is insulin insufficiency, blood glucose levels begin to rise. This is a hallmark symptom of diabetes.

In The Beginning Of The Pandemic

In the early days of the pandemic, doctors noticed that a high percentage of people who contracted COVID-19 had diabetes. More diabetics were hospitalized than other people, and this was initially observed in China in January 2020. Health experts cautioned diabetics to practice more safety measures to avoid COVID-19 infection. Now, it seems that there is a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and COVID-19

A bidirectional relationship means that two conditions can actually increase the chances of both conditions or just one condition. Hundreds of clinicians submitted reports to health registries about the uptick in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes cases during the pandemic. The common thread was that people developed the condition during COVID-19 infection or shortly thereafter. Additionally, a November 2020 analysis found that about, “…14.4% of people hospitalized with severe COVID-19 were newly diagnosed with diabetes”. 

The New NIH Studies

The latest research from the NIH confirmed infection of pancreatic beta cells in autopsy reports from people who died from COVID-19. As is the case in type 1 diabetes, beta cells in the pancreas don’t secrete enough insulin. This means that the body cannot properly metabolize food post meal, and blood glucose spikes up as a result. Several studies found that SARS-CoV-2 may target insulin-producing beta cells in a preferential manner. 

Beta cells and other cell types in the pancreas have ACE2 receptor protein, neuropilin 1 (NRP1), and TMPRSS2 enzyme protein. SARS-CoV-2 depends on these in order to enter and infect human cells. What’s concerning is that the studies found that COVID-19 infection can alter the function of pancreatic tissues that contain beta cells. This leads to reduced insulin production and release from pancreatic tissue. Some research even pointed to the fact that infection caused death to some or all beta cells. 

What About The Cells That Survive?

Well, COVID-19 infection also seems to alter the fate of surviving cells. After single-cell analysis of surviving pancreatic cells that were infected, studies found that they appeared to have undergone reprogramming. The reprogramming found that those cells started producing more glucagon and less insulin. Glucagon is a hormone that encourages the liver’s breakdown of glycogen to glucose.  

Is This Unique To COVID-19?

In the past, scientists observed other viruses and their link to diabetes. Such was the case for enteroviruses, which cause diseases like hand, food, and mouth disease. Additionally, some people who contracted SARS-CoV, which caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in the early 2000s developed diabetes afterward. Viral infections cause widespread inflammation in the body. The body responds by producing stress-related hormones, including cortisol, which work to reduce inflammation. Unfortunately, stress hormones also cause blood sugar spikes, which may not subside even when the infection clears.

COVID-19 patients commonly receive steroidal treatments, which may spike blood sugar levels even higher. It’s possible that these steroids also contributed to the rise in diabetes cases after COVID-19 infection. If patients already had prediabetes, blood sugar levels were already higher than normal. The COVID-19 infection, then, only pushed those people toward full diabetes.

More research on this topic is still necessary to get a better understanding of COVID-19’s relationship with diabetes onset. For now, take preventative measures to keep yourself safe. If you have prediabetes, consider altering your diet and engaging in regular exercise to naturally improve blood sugar levels. Improving gut health may also help balance blood sugar. 

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Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is the therapy people don’t realize they need. Although it isn’t a modern therapy, it has risen to popularity within recent years. A handful of celebrities and athletes regularly enter hyperbaric chambers to maintain optimal body function. During the therapy, a person enters a vacuum of pure oxygen flow with increased atmospheric pressure to promote oxygenation into the body’s tissues. 

In the latest episode of The Adventures of V-Man, our content writer, Vinnie, entered the hyperbaric chamber. He was fortunate enough to go to Beverly Hills Hyperbaric Center, located in West Los Angeles, CA, to try out the therapy. If you watch the accompanying video, you’ll notice that the therapy is quite relaxing. It’s not like last adventure when Vinnie jumped in an ice bath (click here to watch). Vinnie will tell you more about the therapy below. 

Who Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy For?

Historically, hyperbaric oxygen therapy was used as an alternative treatment to over-the-counter drugs and invasive procedures. The military developed it to treat deep-sea divers in the field who suffered from “the bends.” The pressurized atmosphere and inhalation of pure oxygen promoted widespread healing throughout the body. To this day people still use it for that reason, but they also use it to oxygenate the body’s tissues to promote wound healing and cell regeneration. It’s a therapy that can be used to remedy lyme disease, but anyone can use it to expedite recovery or enhance cellular function.

I feel like the film team on my latest adventure was very hesitant to do this therapy. Supposedly, Michael Jackson slept in a hyperbaric chamber every night, and that scared them. Professional athletes like Tim Tebow and Terrell Owens notoriously received hyperbaric therapy. And it was evident that it’s a very popular therapy among celebrities when we arrived at Beverly Hills Hyperbaric Center. Pictures of all the famous athletes and actors that received hyperbaric oxygen therapy at the facility adorned the the walls. Maybe I’ll be on that wall one day…

Beverly Hills Hyperbaric Center

Upon arriving at the facility, I was greeted by Gonzo, who gave me the full rundown of everything there was to know about hyperbaric oxygen therapy. His enthusiasm about the therapy and its benefits was infectious. If the chamber was a car and he was the salesman, he would’ve had an easy sale with me. I was excited and ready to slide into the glass tube that looked like a space pod from the future. 

The chamber is essentially a glass tube with a bed that slides out on a track. For someone who is claustrophobic, it looks very intimidating, and the thought of being in a tight, enclosed space is frightening. According to Gonzo and Dr. Barry, who gave an interview after the therapy, many people who have claustrophobia have no issues with the therapy. The benefits outweigh the fear of being in the chamber, which is very comfortable. 

Going In The Hyperbaric Chamber

Before I entered the chamber, Gonzo gave me a piece of gum to chew. The reason for this is to aid with popping ears as the pressure changes in the chamber. I lay on the bed, Gonzo pushed the bed in the chamber, and sealed the door behind me. I had a blanket, a couple pillows, and the ability to watch whatever Netflix show/movie I wanted. Gonzo communicated with me via a little communication system in the chamber. He was a very attentive assistant who made sure I was comfortable throughout the therapy. 

I was thankful he gave me the gum because it helps tremendously when trying to pop your ears. The initial 10-12 minutes feel like taking off on an airplane. As Dr. Barry later explained, the atmospheric pressure changes so the person can breathe pure oxygen. Oxygen only comprises about 21% of the regular atmosphere, but breathing pure oxygen allows the body to absorb it at a rapid rate. Of course, you don’t feel this, but it’s happening. As Dr. Barry said, “It feels like nothing is happening, and it’s the easiest therapy to do.”

That sentiment may cause skeptics to avoid this therapy, but many studies have proven its efficacy for treating various health ailments. For instance, Dr. Barry knew of someone who was completely cured of lyme disease after receiving consecutive treatments. The pressurized oxygen penetrates deep tissues and plasma, which stimulates the production of healing chemicals. Essentially, this therapy helps the body heal itself from the inside out. And all I had to do was watch Netflix for this healing to take place!

Conclusion

It’s interesting to participate in a therapy that doesn’t seem to do anything in the moment. You can take a nap, watch a movie, or read in the chamber, so it’s not as involved as chiropractic or stretch therapy. Don’t think that this therapy is a complete waste of time because it has amazing benefits for your insides. A high percentage of people have poor circulation, but this therapy is a great way to enhance blood flow, which is one way it accelerates healing. If you want instantaneous relief or a therapy that you feel in the moment, this is not for you. For people who need help recovering from an illness or injury, regular sessions may accelerate your recovery. If you live in the Los Angeles area, visit Beverly Hills Hyperbaric Center. Dr. Barry will take care of you!

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Some of the healthiest foods are often the ugliest or strange-looking. Ugly foods deserve love, if only for the health benefits and not the flavor. The kiwano melon, for example, is one such fruit that may help to protect the skin, enhance metabolism, and improve cognitive function. This horned, yellow melon may also improve digestion and accelerate wound healing. 

What Is Kiwano (Horned Melon)?

Cucumis metuliferus is the formal name for kiwano, or horned melon. Native to Southern Africa, kiwano is wildly cultivated nowadays and available in many other countries. It’s a small, oval-shaped yellow melon that has horns on the exterior. The interior of the melon is gelatinous and looks like a cross between a passion fruit and a cucumber. You may not find it at your average grocery store, but certain speciality stores or ethnic markets tend to carry it. 

Nutritional Content

Kiwano melon offers an assortment of beneficial vitamins and minerals. It’s a water-rich produce item that is low in carbs, calories, and fat. Roughly 16% of the calories come from protein, which is considered high compared to other fruits. Kiwano melon contains vitamins A, C, & B6, iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. It has a unique nutrient distribution, making it an excellent fruit to add to your diet. 

Health Benefits Of Kiwano

Eye Health

Kiwano melon offers a significant amount of vitamin A, which is a known booster for eye health. This carotenoid works to protect the eye from harmful free radicals that can increase the risk of macular degeneration. Fighting oxidative stress may also help reduce the risk of cataract development. The carotenoids and tocopherols also help to nourish eye cells, in addition to immune cells. 

Blood Sugar Impact

According to several preliminary studies, kiwano melon may aid with the reduction of blood glucose levels. A 2010 animal study found that kiwano extract doses of 1,500 milligrams (mg) per kilogram (kg) exhibited hypoglycemic properties in rats with hyperglycemia. It’s possible that kiwano melon increases the utilization of blood glucose by the liver to convert it to glycogen. This hypothesis needs further analysis and studies to confirm if it is true or not, though. It’s also rich in magnesium, which is directly involved in the metabolism of blood glucose. 

Metabolism Boost

Many people who want to lose weight often need a metabolic boost. A slow metabolism can make weight loss efforts difficult, but kiwano melon may be able to help correct that. Kiwano is rich in zinc and vitamin C. The former aids metabolism and tissue, blood vessel and cell repair, while the latter is a key component of collagen production. Vitamin C works to complement zinc’s efforts on maintaining a healthy thyroid. By nourishing the thyroid, zinc and vitamin C help maintain metabolism, energy, and a controlled appetite. 

Better Digestion

Dietary fiber works to encourage peristalsis, the natural relaxation and contraction of intestinal muscles that move food through the digestive tract. Kiwano melon happens to be an excellent source of fiber. This is great news if you need to provide relief from cramping, constipation, bloating, or poor digestion. In addition to regulating digestion, kiwano melon may also help to normalize cholesterol levels in the body. That’s another benefit of dietary fiber! It may also help regulate insulin receptor, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.

Enhance Hydration

One of the primary benefits of fruits like kiwano melon is that they are mostly comprised of water. You can meet 20% of your daily hydration requirements by eating certain foods. Since kiwano melon is about 88% water and contains beneficial electrolytes, it may enhance your hydration efforts. If you eat some of this melon on a hot day while exercising, it may help prevent dehydration. 

Red Blood Cell Production

As mentioned earlier in the article, kiwano melon is an excellent source of iron, with one melon providing 13% of the recommended daily intake. Adequate iron intake helps to promote healthy red blood cell production. Red blood cells are naturally rich in hemoglobin, which is an iron-rich substance. Hemoglobin helps to transport oxygen throughout the body; therefore, eating iron-rich foods like kiwano melon can aid with proper oxygenation. Kiwano is also rich in vitamin C, which enhances the absorption of iron!

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A lot of people take supplements to meet their recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C, but fresh fruits and vegetables are the best sources. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, plays numerous roles that are integral to overall bodily functions. It assists with cell protection, maintaining healthy skin & blood vessels, and it encourages wound healing. The most notable benefit is that it helps to encourage a healthier immune system. 

In general, foods that are naturally rich in vitamin C are fruits and vegetables. Since the body doesn’t store vitamin C, people need to regularly consume it. Any leftover vitamin C that the body cannot use leaves via urine. According to the FDA, the RDI of vitamin C is 90 milligrams (mg) for adult males, and 75 mg for adult females. Pregnant women should consume 85 mg per day, and breastfeeding women should consume 120 mg per day. Take a look at the following 10 foods to make sure you always have enough vitamin C in the body.

Kiwi

One cup of this tart fruit satisfies about 185% of the RDI of vitamin C. Most people don’t typically eat a cup of kiwi, though; rather, they eat a single kiwi fruit, which has about 79% of the RDI of vitamin C. There was a study that monitored 30 people (ages 20-51), who ate 2-3 kiwis every day for one month. The results indicated that kiwis lowered triglyceride levels by 15% and blood platelet stickiness by 18%. That’s great news for people who have higher risk of stroke or blood clots. 

Strawberries

You can’t have a list of vitamin C-rich foods and exclude strawberries. One cup of this classic summer berry delivers 108% of the RDI of vitamin C. In addition to the high vitamin C content, strawberries also contain folate, manganese, flavonoids, and other antioxidants. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in strawberries may reduce the risk of cancer, dementia, and diabetes.

Guava

Surprisingly, one cup of guava fruit offers 419% of the RDI of vitamin C. Guavas are tropical fruits that have yellow or green skin with bright pink or white flesh. They help to promote hydration and may even assist with blood pressure and cholesterol reduction.

Papaya

Papayas are beneficial for both assisting with optimal digestion and boosting immune function. Papaya offers 97% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup, and several studies revealed that they may also assist with brain function. One study even found that people who consumed papaya extract for six months experienced a 40% decrease in oxidative stress. That’s one of the main contributing factors to cognitive decline.

Red Bell Peppers

Boasting an incredible 211% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup, red bell peppers are some of the best vitamin C foods. All bell peppers contain vitamin C, but the red ones contain the most. They are also rich in beta-carotene, which encourages healthier eyes, skin, and immune function.

Kale

Kale is a superstar among produce items. There’s nothing it can’t do! Kale is a cruciferous vegetable that packs about 89% of the RDI of vitamin C per cup. If you eat a cup of cooked kale, it offers 59% because heat lessens the nutritional content. Kale is also rich in vitamin K and antioxidants like zeaxanthin, lutein, and carotenoids.

Thyme

This aromatic herb offers wonderful depth of flavor to your meals. According to research, thyme has more vitamin C than oranges, comparing it gram for gram. One ounce of fresh thyme offers 50% of the RDI of vitamin C. Even if you only sprinkle a little on your meals at a time, you add some vitamin C to your day. Thyme is also beneficial for the respiratory system. 

Brussels Sprouts

When it comes to Brussels sprouts, people either love or hate them. They are like durian fruit in that way. They do, however, offer a diverse mix of nutrients, including vitamin C. One cup of cooked Brussels sprouts contains 107% of the RDI of vitamin C. Brussels sprouts also offer, fiber, protein, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B6. 

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Eye Kit – 20 day kit and regimen that help to strengthen, nourish, repair any fend off any adverse eye conditions.

• Helps to strengthen, nourish and repair the eyes
• Helps to maintain healthy eyesight and vision
• Works to strengthen the ciliary muscles
• Necessary weight loss (5-25 lbs.)
• Promotes clearer, more vibrant eyes
• Contains antioxidants to protect the body from free radicals and promotes cellular health
• Includes pinhole glasses to help exercise and train the eyes

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