Carrots, pilots and polar bears
The belief that eating carrots improves night vision was popularized by WWII British propaganda to encourage carrot consumption during blackouts. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, essential for healthy vision. However, the effectiveness of this conversion varies due to genetic differences. Some people have genetic variations that significantly reduce their ability to convert beta-carotene into vitamin A. For those with such variations, obtaining preformed vitamin A from animal products or supplements is crucial. While vitamin A is vital for vision, immune function, and skin health, excessive intake, particularly from sources like liver, can lead to toxicity.
24 Jan 2024
A surprising link with acne, and what to do about it
While conventional treatments for acne may fight inflammation, control oil production, and zap those bacteria on your skin's surface, they may not get to the root of the issue. This surprising link gives a new perspective on why teenagers can be more prone to acne, and what can be done to help keep the spots at bay.
10 Aug 2023
The Hidden Hero: Resistant Starch and the Gut-Boosting Bacteria
When it comes to gut health, we often hear about the importance of probiotics and fibre-rich foods. However, there's another unsung hero in the world of digestive health that deserves the spotlight - resistant starch. This often-overlooked component plays a vital role in feeding the good bacteria in your gut, leading to a myriad of health benefits. In this short read, we'll explore the wonders of resistant starch and its impact on the SCFA-producing bacteria that keep our digestive system happy and healthy.
24 Jul 2023
Going against the grain
While wheat bread is a staple in many people's diets, it can be problematical for health. Wheat, rye and barley contain gluten, a protein that can cause negative reactions in individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. But even if you don't have a gluten intolerance, consuming large amounts of wheat flour, which breaks down to glucose, can impact your blood sugar balance and contribute to insulin resistance - a slippery slope towards weight gain and increased risk for diabetes and heart disease. The gluten in wheat bread can disrupt the gut microbiota and make your gut lining more permeable, leading to inflammation, digestive issues, and even autoimmune disorders. Gluten proteins are difficult to digest and can cause intestinal hyperpermeability or "leaky gut." This means that the gluten proteins can pass through the gut lining and into the bloodstream, triggering an immune response and inflammation. This inflammation can damage the gut lining and disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut microbiota.
22 Apr 2023
New research on mind-boosting mushroom
Recent research on lion's mane mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus), a traditional medicinal fungus, highlights their potential cognitive benefits. An international study published in the Journal of Neurochemistry identified compounds in the mushroom, including hericene A, that promote nerve growth, enhance memory, and could reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Laboratory tests showed these compounds significantly improved neuron connectivity and memory in mice, supporting the theory that lion's mane mushrooms stimulate neurogenesis, making them a promising natural remedy for cognitive decline.
20 Feb 2023
Why am I so tired? 9 Tests to Uncover the Hidden Causes of Your Fatigue
Persistent fatigue, despite adequate sleep, often signals underlying health issues beyond sleep deprivation. Factors like post-viral fatigue, chronic disease, or medication side effects can contribute to tiredness. Addressing the root cause requires a functional medicine approach, focusing on biochemical imbalances that may not be detected in standard tests. Nine key tests include blood glucose, thyroid function, liver function, vitamin levels, and inflammatory markers. Tailored interventions, such as dietary changes, targeted supplements, and stress management, can help restore energy levels and overall well-being.
26 Sep 2022What to look for in a nutritional supplement
13 Sep 2022Scientist analyzing microscope slide at laboratory, technician examining a histological sample
Scientist analyzing microscope slide at laboratory, technician examining a histological sample
12 Sep 2022Sperm counts!
Fertility clearly isn't just a woman-thing. Up to 30 percent of cases of infertility worldwide are thought to be due to sperm-quality issues. In the UK, 1 in 7 couples have difficulty conceiving, and one in four of these are from unknown causes - unknown, that is, to conventional medicine. The conventional avenues of treatment are drugs, surgery or assisted conception – including intra-uterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF), but aside from addressing a blockage these generally focus on the woman rather than the man.
20 Jul 2022