Alternative Natural Health
Did you know that there are natural approaches for coping with some common health conditions? As we mature, many of us are looking for natural solutions to help maintain our overall wellness.
Maintain Heart Health Naturally
If you are looking to reduce your cholesterol levels, there are some natural options in addition to taking a statin medication. Plant stanols and sterols supplements have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels in the body and are available over-the-counter. Studies show that consuming 2-3 grams of plant stanols and sterols help to lower cholesterol an average of 12-15% through physically blocking the absorption of some dietary cholesterol in the gut.
Stanols and sterols are compounds that are naturally found in small amounts in the foods we eat. However dietary intake of these foods only provides us with approximately 0.8 grams of stanols and sterols, which unfortunately isn't enough to have a lowering effect upon cholesterol levels. This is where supplements can help--a supplement that provides an additional 1.2 grams of stanols and sterols per day can help to lower cholesterol levels naturally.
Are you concerned about high triglycerides? If you are, consider taking a fish oil supplement. Fish oil has been shown to decrease the risk of coronary heart disease and may help to lower triglyceride levels. In addition to eating cold water fish, such as salmon, try adding a fish oil supplement to your regimen.
Improve Your Mood Naturally
Some people mistakenly believe that feeling blue is all in your head. Actually, it is clinically proven that mood is affected by levels of certain feel-good chemicals produced naturally in the brain. When the body's supply of these mood-enhancing chemicals drops, people may experience symptoms of depression. This may make these individuals more prone to aches and pains that are commonly found in people who are diagnosed with depression.
While anti-depressants have been clinically proven to treat depression, many people prefer natural methods to improve mood. Supplements containing SAM-e (s-adenosyl-methionine) have been clinically proven to help enhance mood and emotional well-being without side effects because SAM-e is naturally produced in the body.
If you are taking an anti-depressant for depression, you may want to consider adding a ginkgo biloba supplement to your vitamin regimen. Ginkgo biloba has been shown to promote healthy blood circulation. In addition, people who experience sexual dysfunction as a result of taking anti-depressants, have reported that adding ginkgo biloba to their health regimen can greatly improve this condition.
Natural Relief for Joint Discomfort
As we mature, natural wear and tear of the joints is very common and may impact how much exercise and activity our bodies can handle. While some people take anti-inflammatory medications to ease their joint pain inflammation, some studies suggest that the natural anti-inflammatory properties found in omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil may help ease joint discomfort.
Furthermore, joint supplements are growing in popularity. Scientific research demonstrates their effectiveness in relieving joint discomfort from overexertion, promoting cartilage growth and improving overall proper mobility. Three of the most popular joint health supplements include Glucosamine, Chondroitin and Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM).
For more information about how natural remedies may work for you, speak to your doctor or health care provider. It's important to remember that before taking any vitamin or supplement, always consult with your doctor or health care provider.
Source: Naturemade