Category
Latest blog
The Reishi Mushroom – The “Mushroom of Immortality”
December 10, 2024
A Sobering Look at the Current State of Nutrition in the U.S
December 4, 2024
Sort by
December 10, 2024
The Reishi Mushroom – The “Mushroom of Immortality”
The Reishi Mushroom, ever heard of it? It has been gaining in popularity in recent years, but has been utilized in traditional Chinese medicine for nearly 2,000 years. It was originally found in China, Japan, & Korea, but now grows on hardwoods around the world in tropical or subtropical climates. With such fanciful nicknames such as “Mushroom of Immortality” , “Soul Mushroom”, and “Queen of Mushrooms”, you might wonder – what exactly are the benefits of the Reishi that helped it garner such reverence? Referencing the www.healthline.com article on Reishi Mushrooms (source: “6 Benefits of Reishi Mushroom (Plus Side Effects and Dosage” http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/reishi-mushroom-benefits) Below are 6 scientifically studied benefits of the reishi mushroom. The first three are backed by stronger evidence, while support for the others is less conclusive. 1. Boost the Immune System One of the most important effects of the reishi mushroom is that it can boost your immune system (4). While some details are still uncertain, test-tube studies have shown that reishi can affect the genes in white blood cells, which are critical parts of your immune system. What’s more, these studies have found that some forms of reishi may alter inflammation pathways in white blood cells (5). Research in cancer patients has shown that some of the molecules found in the mushroom can increase the activity of a type of white blood cell called natural killer cells (6). Natural killer cells fight infections and cancer in the body (7). Another study found that reishi can increase the number of other white blood cells (lymphocytes) in those with colorectal cancer (2). Although most immune system benefits of reishi mushroom have been seen in those who are ill, some evidence has shown that it can help healthy people, too. In one study, the fungus improved lymphocyte function, which helps fight infections and cancer, in athletes exposed to stressful conditions (8, 9). However, other research in healthy adults showed no improvement in immune function or inflammation after 4 weeks of taking reishi extract (10). Overall, it is clear that reishi impacts white blood cells and immune function. More research is needed to determine the extent of the benefits in the healthy and ill. 2. Anti-Cancer Properties Many people consume this fungus due to its potential cancer-fighting properties (11, 12). In fact, one study of over 4,000 breast cancer survivors found that around 59% consumed reishi mushroom (13). Additionally, several test-tube studies have shown that it can lead to the death of cancer cells (14, 15, 16). Yet the results of these studies do not necessarily equate to effectiveness in animals or humans. Some research has investigated if reishi could be beneficial for prostate cancer due to its effects on the hormone testosterone (17, 18). While one case study showed that molecules found in this mushroom may reverse prostate cancer in humans, a larger follow-up study did not support these findings (19, 20). Reishi mushroom has also been studied for its role in preventing or fighting colorectal cancer (2, 21). Some research showed that one year of treatment with reishi decreased the number and size of tumors in the large intestine (21). What’s more, a detailed report of multiple studies indicated that the mushroom can beneficially affect cancer patients (22). These benefits included increasing the activity of the body’s white blood cells, which help fight cancer, and improving quality of life in cancer patients. However, researchers state that reishi should be administered in combination with traditional treatment rather than replacing it (22). What’s more, many of the studies of reishi mushroom and cancer were not high-quality. Because of this, much more research is needed (11, 23). 3. Could Fight Fatigue and Depression Reishi’s effects on the immune system are often most emphasized, but it has other potential advantages as well. These include reduced fatigue and depression, as well as improved quality of life. One study examined its effects in 132 people with neurasthenia, a poorly defined condition associated with aches, pains, dizziness, headaches and irritability (24). The researchers found that fatigue was reduced and well-being was improved after 8 weeks of taking the supplements. Another study found that fatigue was reduced and quality of life was improved after 4 weeks of taking reishi powder in a group of 48 breast cancer survivors (25). What’s more, the people in the study also experienced less anxiety and depression. While reishi mushroom may hold promise for people with certain diseases or illnesses, it is not clear if it would benefit those who are otherwise healthy. 4–6. Other Potential Benefits In addition to its effects on the immune system and quality of life, reishi mushroom has been studied for its potential to improve other aspects of health. 4. Heart Health One 12-week study of 26 people showed that reishi mushroom may increase “good” HDL cholesterol and decrease triglycerides (26). However, other research in healthy adults showed no improvement in these heart disease risk factors (10). Moreover, a large analysis demonstrated no beneficial effects for heart health after examining five different studies containing around 400 people. The researchers found that consuming reishi mushroom for up to 16 weeks did not improve cholesterol (27). Overall, more research is needed in regard to reishi mushrooms and heart health. 5. Blood Sugar Control Several studies have indicated that molecules found in the reishi mushroom can decrease blood sugar in animals (28, 29). Some preliminary research in humans reported similar findings (30). However, the majority of research has not supported this benefit. After evaluating hundreds of participants, researchers found no benefits for fasting blood sugar (27). Mixed results were seen for blood sugar after meals. In some cases, reishi mushroom lowered blood sugar, but in other cases, it was worse than a placebo. Again, more research is needed here as well. 6. Antioxidant Status Antioxidants are molecules that can help prevent damage to your cells (31). Because of this important function, there is substantial interest in foods and supplements that can enhance antioxidant status in the body. Many claim that reishi mushroom is effective for this purpose. However, several studies have found no change in the levels of two important antioxidant enzymes in the blood after consuming the fungus for 4 to 12 weeks (10, 26). The array of herbs & other ingredients (including Reishi Mushroom extract) in SureMeal Vital collectively are powerful anti-inflammatory agents which assist in strengthening your vital organs, helping to improve red-blood cell creation, as well as battle numerous chronic illnesses such as nausea, diabetes, arthritis, and more.
Read more
December 6, 2024
Nutrition Drinks and Shakes for Adults and Children: Keeping your Family Healthy
In these current times, maintaining a strong immune system, healthy weight, and keeping your body tuned are the best way to defend against colds and viruses. These factors are heavily influenced by an individual’s diet. Nutrition drinks and shakes are a viable option for adults and children to receive the nutrition they might be missing from their normal diets. Though the ideal method for adults and children to receive their nutrition is through the food they eat, many times, despite all efforts, most find themselves undernourished and missing their daily values of key vitamins and minerals. Currently, the options to get the proper FDA recommended daily nutrition are either through food (the most ideal method), by swallowing multiple vitamin pills daily, or by turning to a nutritional meal-replacement shake. However, there is also a significant portion of the population suffering from a lack of appetite & may find it difficult to get their nutrition through just food or others who struggle to swallow the multivitamins or dislike the aftertaste. Being able to supplement a diet with nutrition shakes which contain the proper protein, daily vitamins and minerals that are low in sugar could be an ideal solution to these concerns. The Hard Truth: A Nutrition Report Card The following was aggregated from: Micronutrient Inadequacies in the US Population: an Overview. Approximately one-half of American adults have at least one preventable chronic disease. More than one-third of adults and 17% of children and adolescents are classified as obese. 94.3% of the US population do not meet the daily requirement for vitamin D 88.5% for vitamin E 52.2% for magnesium 44.1% for calcium 43.0% for vitamin A 38.9% for vitamin C. See our post on MicroNutrient Deficiencies in the United States. What Should You Be Getting? So, what benefits should users be garnering from a quality nutrition supplement / meal-replacement product? Natural whole food supplementation is going to be the best avenue for individuals to truly get the optimal nutrients; however, we understand circumstances may disallow this, either due to suppressed appetite, inability to chew, or simply just less access to these foods. Thus, we strongly feel that a nutrition supplement shake should be giving its consumers the following: 1. Quality whey protein to support lean muscle growth and maintenance. Given many use these products either in recovery, to help maintain their bodies as they age, or for growing children, adequate protein is a must. For those seeking to manage weight, whey protein offers a way to feel fuller for longer. 2. Fiber to support digestive function. Those suffering from a loss in appetite, may not necessarily be able to get their fiber from food and diet alone. 3. Low Potassium & Low Sodium. For those who are going through dialysis treatment, this requirement is critically important. 4. High in Calcium. For children and adults, calcium is a crucial building block for maintenance of strong bones as well as growth. Those taking these products as an alternative to milk (due to a lactose intolerance) may not be receiving the adequate calcium they require. 5. No added sugars. We covered this already, but it’s worth mentioning again. The addition of sugars to the formula only serves to create energy spikes, potentially exacerbate inflammation, and provide a risk to diabetics. SureMeal™ Nutrition Drinks & Shakes Are Low in Sugar , High in Nutrients Each one of the SureMeal™ formulas is low in sugar – less than 1 gram per serving, with high amounts of fiber & whey protein. However, what truly differentiates SureMeal™ are its customized formulas focused on meeting your individual lifestyle needs.
Read more
December 6, 2024
Collagen Powder – Top 5 Benefits of Collagen Supplementation Backed By Research
First things first, What is Collagen? Collagen is a fibrous protein that exists naturally in the body and is responsible for maintaining the elasticity in our skin, strength in our nails & hair, and fluidity in our joint cartilage. Our bodies produce collagen regularly, however, as we age, collagen production begins to slow down – a rate of nearly 1-2% loss per year after age 30. The result? Wrinkles & less firmness in the skin. Stiffness in the joints. Brittle hair & nails. While collagen loss is not preventable, studies have shown there are lifestyle habits & supplementation that can help slow this process down. But before we talk about that, let’s quickly get into the different types of collagen. (image source: www.medicalnewstoday.com) The Different Types of Collagen What? There are different types of collagen? Not all collagen is made the same and when supplementing for specific purposes, you should be able to identify the differences. There are actually more than a dozen different types of collagen, but we will specifically go over the most abundant types: Type I, Type II, & Type III Type I Collagen – Hair, Skin, Nails, & Bones Type I Collagen is a Fibrillar class collagen & makes up 90% of our hair, skin & nails. It is also naturally distributed in most of our connective tissues, ligaments & bones. Type I Collagen, as a result, is highly recommended for improving skin, hair, & nail health. 12 week clinical trials have shown that “Supplementation with 50 mL of [Collagen] on a daily basis for 60 days led to a noticeable reduction in skin dryness, wrinkles, and nasolabial fold depth. In addition, a significant increase in collagen density and skin firmness was observed after 12 weeks.” [1] Type II Collagen – Joint & Cartilage Type II Collagen makes up a significant portion of the protein & collagen in your joint cartilage. It has been utilized historically to help treat various types of arthritis, back pain, neck pain, or post-injury. Research has shown that taking collagen type II by mouth for 3 months reduces joint pain, swelling, and time to walk 15 meters in people with Rheumatoid arthritis. Type II Collagen, therefore, is highly recommended for individuals specifically seeking to improve cartilage and joint health. Type III Collagen – Arteries & Cardiovascular System Type III Collagen forms the arterial walls & is typically found with Type I Collagen. Most supplements today provide Types I & III together for total skin, hair, & nail health. Studies have shown “type III collagen is essential for normal collagen I fibrillogenesis in the cardiovascular system and other organs” [2] It is recommended to take both Types I & III Collagen together for the best benefit & for those seeking full skin, hair, & nail benefits. (Source: www.columbia.edu) 5 Great Benefits of Collagen Supplementation 1. Improve Skin, Hair, & Nail Health In one double blind, placebo-controlled study on women aged 35-55, those that took a supplement containing 2.5–5 grams of collagen for eight weeks experienced less skin dryness and a significant increase in skin elasticity compared to those who did not take the supplement [3] 2. Improve Joint Health in Athletes In a 24-week study of athletes with activity-related joint pain – there were statistically significant implications for the use of collagen hydrolysate to support joint health and possibly reduce the risk of joint deterioration. The results suggest that athletes consuming collagen hydrolysate can reduce parameters (such as pain) that have a negative impact on athletic performance. [4] 3. Fight the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis A comprehensive review of the literature & studies on collagen as a means to help treat osteoarthritis, confirmed that “hydrolyzed collagen has a positive therapeutic effect on osteoporosis and osteoarthritis with a potential increase in bone mineral density, a protective effect on articular cartilage, and especially in the symptomatic relief of pain.” [5] 4. Help Cardiovascular Health A 6-month trial on subjects taking Collagen tripeptide twice daily “indicate that CTP contributes to the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis (the build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls) in healthy humans” [6] 5. Improve Muscle Mass The utilization of Collagen Peptides as supplementation in conjunction with resistance training has shown improvements in body composition and increased muscle strength of elderly subjects. A study of 53 male subjects in a random double-blind placebo-controlled study provided “data (to) demonstrate that compared with placebo, collagen peptide supplementation in combination with resistance training further improved body composition by increasing FFM (fat-free mass), muscle strength and the loss in FM (fat mass).” [7] —- [1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4206255/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC20006/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23949208 [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18416885 [5] http://www.scielo.br/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1809-98232016000100153 [6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5429168/ [7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4594048/
Read more
December 4, 2024
A Sobering Look at the Current State of Nutrition in the U.S
I’m sure many of you reading this are likely aware of the lack of nutrition we get from much of our foods. We live busy lives, and as such, properly fueling our bodies has suddenly taken a back seat. We begin to heavily depend on food high in sodium and sugar for quick bursts of energy, but at the detriment of our bodies for the long-term. Proper nutrition is a marathon, not a sprint. You cannot simply enhance your diet for a day, week, or even a month and expect to reap the results. Take a look below and see how the U.S population stands in terms of micro-nutrient deficiencies. So what can we do? Getting proper nutrition shouldn’t be difficult. Meal-supplementation is a great way to achieve this. Though we do heavily recommend receiving your nutrients directly from whole foods, vegetables and fruits, to help give that extra assist on those busy days, a meal-supplement such as SureMeal can be a huge boost to your body and re-align itself to becoming healthier. For those that have trouble eating or swallowing, SureMeal is also a great addition – it provides vitamins, nutrients, protein, fiber, all with No added sugars (compare this to the competition). With SureMeal, you can rest assured you are receiving adequate vitamins and nutrients, without loading up on the sugar. Take control of your diet & nutrition today, fight chronic illness and live a better tomorrow. Shop now at www.SureMeal.com Source: https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/micronutrient-inadequacies/overview
Read more