Uncategorized

Prostate health is a sensitive issue for most men. The gland plays a very important role in the production of semen. Therefore, it is intimately tied to masculinity. However, prostate disorders are exceedingly common in older males. Indeed, half of all men over fifty suffer from enlarged prostates, which can lead to frequent and painful urination. In addition, prostate cancer is the third most common cancer among males in the United States.

Sexual activity tied to prostate health

Diet, exercise, and regular medical checkups are among the most effective ways of maintaining prostate health. However, a new study suggests that there is another activity men can do to keep their prostates in good order. According to research conducted by Harvard University’s Jennifer R. Rider, which was published in the journal European Urology, high levels of sexual activity appear to reduce the risk of getting prostate cancer.

The study looked at the sexual behaviors of nearly 32,000 men. In sum, it found that higher rates of ejaculation were associated with significantly lower rates of prostate tumors. The study’s authors concluded:

“We found that men reporting higher compared to the lower ejaculatory frequency in adulthood were less likely to be subsequently diagnosed with prostate cancer. This large prospective study provides the strongest evidence to date of a beneficial role of ejaculation in the prevention of prostate cancer.”

How many ejaculations per month?

A panel of physicians discussing the findings on Ultimate Health summed up the research by saying that, “Twenty-one ejaculations or more per month can protect you (males) from prostate cancer.”

Of course, there are other risk factors men need to be aware of too:

• Being overweight and obese
• Heredity
• Tobacco smoke
• The consumption of high-fat processed food products

Prostate health and diet

According to Dr. James Balch, diet is one of the most important considerations when it comes to prostate wellness. As he puts it, “If a man wants to stay out of the operating room and avoid cancer of the prostate, he needs to go full blast to avoid the high-fat junk foods and environmental toxins that contribute to prostate problems and to start a wise nutritional program that includes the basic supplements that affect the prostate.”

There’s little men can do when it comes to their genes. However, the scientific evidence indicates that there is a lot they can do to keep their prostates healthy. Vigorous sexual activity — absent other risky behaviors — appears to be one preventive measure.

Here are some other tips and suggestions for better prostate health:

• Eat lots of fresh tomatoes. Studies show that lycopene in this and other red fruits (yes, tomatoes are fruits) may reduce the risk of prostate disorders.  
• Drink plenty of organic coffee. Research shows that several cups of java can lower the chances of getting prostate cancer.
• Replace animal-based fats with plant-based fats. For example, use olive oil instead of butter.
• Quit smoking. Tobacco use is correlated with a particularly aggressive form of prostate cancer. However, it’s never too late to quit. Ex-smokers who have stopped for at least ten years are not at an increased risk.
• Get moving. Moderate exercise and lots of activity can burn belly fat, which is a known risk factor when it comes to prostate cancer.

Protect your prostate

Researchers still don’t know for sure why frequent ejaculations protect the prostate. However, some scientists speculate that the activity may help flush toxins from a man’s system. In any event, men who ejaculate more than 21 times a month appear to have a 33 percent lower risk of getting prostate cancer. That’s medical news that should be pleasing to a lot of males.

– The Backyard Vitality Team

While I know that many people in the Western world find them off-putting, I absolutely adore sea vegetables. Red, brown, green, crispy, chewy… they all taste great to me. My favorite kind has to be the delicious nori used to wrap sushi rolls (it’s also the kind of seaweed you’ll find dried and crisp for snacking), but I also love the little bites of kelp found in miso soup. They add such a wonderful, salty flavor. As a bonus, kelp is incredibly healthy.

Kelp, also known as kombu, is a type of brown algae. It is also sometimes simply referred to as “large seaweed,” and can represent about 300 types of seaweed that fall under the kelp category. Seaweed itself is ancient, and part of the oh-so-healthy algae family. It’s also very versatile. Kelp can be used to flavor foods; seaweed has a great natural “umami” flavor and is often used in Japanese and Chinese soup bases. It can also be used to add a green, nutritious accent. It can even be eaten on its own if you like the taste (I do, it’s mild and pleasant).

If you want a good reason to add more kelp to your meals, here are eight that come to mind.

1. Vitamins and minerals galore

Eating kelp is a great way to get some vitamins and minerals into your system. This yummy seaweed contains vitamins C and K, along with several B-vitamins. It also contains many minerals and other nutrients, including calcium, copper, potassium, iodine, fiber, magnesium, manganese, and zinc.

Eating the traditional Western diet, as so many of us do all too often, can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Choosing to switch to a healthy lifestyle, and adding kelp to your nutritious recipes, is a great way to get replenished.

2. Iodine for thyroid health

One of the most important benefits of brown algae such as kelp is its high content of iodine. Having an adequate balance of iodine in your body is key to the health of your thyroid. The thyroid is an organ located in your neck. It produces hormones, which are involved in many different functions of your body and mind. If you don’t have enough iodine in your body, your thyroid function may suffer.

Eating kelp on a regular basis may help to improve your thyroid function if your iodine levels are low. Of course, if you suspect your thyroid may be out of whack, your first step should be to see a health professional you trust to get to the bottom of the issue. Then, you’ll be able to find out how much iodine your body needs.

3. Antioxidants to fight inflammation and free radicals

Kelp is high in several antioxidants, including carotenoid and flavonoid antioxidants. It also contains vitamin C, which is known to have potent antioxidant properties within the body. On top of that, kale contains various alkaloids with antioxidant properties. All of these antioxidants combined can help to combat chronic inflammation throughout your body (which can be very dangerous when left unchecked) and keep you feeling your best.

4. Chlorophyll content benefits your blood

Kelp, like other green plants, is high in chlorophyll. Chlorophyll does more than make plants green. Its structure resembles that of human blood, and because of this, may be very beneficial to the health of our blood and entire circulatory system. One such benefit is stimulating the body’s production of red blood cells, which encourages better oxygen delivery to all of the vital organs in your body. Chlorophyll also has many other important benefits.

5. Fiber is vital for your gut and your heart

You probably already know this, but your body needs fiber to function properly. Luckily, kelp contains a wealth of it. Fiber is not only important for digestion, it’s also key to heart health, and the health of your gut, which greatly affects your immune system.

6. Kelp is a vegan source of protein

For those looking for a yummy vegan protein to add to their diets, kelp is a great option. It’s not an entirely complete protein, but it’s close, as it contains numerous amino acids. So, while kelp may not work as a lone protein source, combined with other healthy sources of protein, such as beans, legumes, seeds, and a variety of veggies, it can augment your diet significantly.

7. Kelp is alkaline

Many people who regularly consume the Western diet are too acidic, and this can lead to health issues. Kelp is alkaline in nature, which may help to balance out some of that acidity. Of course, getting rid of the junk in your diet and focusing on whole, nutritious foods is the first step. However, kelp is one of the great nutritious foods you can add.

8. Kelp may help fight cancer

Sea vegetables including kelp may help to fight cancer thanks to their nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds. They may be especially helpful to estrogen-related cancers such as breast cancer, however, much more research needs to be done on this topic.

But before you eat it every day…

While kelp is incredibly healthy, don’t go overboard. Too much iodine in your system can produce toxicity. If you’re thinking of eating more kelp than would normally be called for in recipes, talk to a health professional you trust first. Also, talk to your doctor if you are considering adding kelp to your diet if you have a cardiovascular or metabolic condition, because of sodium concerns.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy kelp?

-The Backyard Vitality Team

 

Your body has amazing ways to communicate with you. It can tell you, long before you feel overwhelmingly symptomatic, that there is a problem. Learning how to understand your body’s language is vital for good health.

Like other parts of your body, your breasts actually talk to you. Not in the way that we are used to talking but rather in their own unique way. Changes in your breasts could be a significant indicator of something that needs to be addressed with your health.

Here are 7 things that your breasts may be trying to tell you:

Your breasts are getting bigger: If you notice that your breasts are growing, it could be a sign of the following:

• You are gaining weight – Forget whether or not your jeans button-up, how does your bra fit? One of the first indicators of a change in body weight is an increase in breast size.
• Your hormones are changing – Before starting your period, when you are pregnant or when you are taking birth control, your breasts can increase in size.

One boob is bigger than the other: Before you get too alarmed, know that this is very common. Most women do not have identically sized breasts. However, if you notice that one breast has changed shape in a big way it could be an early sign of breast cancer. To be sure that it is nothing serious, schedule a routine exam to be checked out.

Your breasts are lumpy and sore: There are several reasons why your breasts may feel lumpy and be sore including:

• You are going to start your period – Many women experience tenderness and lumpiness before the onset of menstruation.
• You might be consuming too much caffeine – Breast tenderness may indicate that your body has had more than enough caffeine. Try cutting back on soda and coffee consumption and see if the sensitivity goes away.

Your nipples are leaking a milky white discharge: Contrary to what you might think, you don’t have to be pregnant or nursing to have discharge from your nipples. It may just mean that you are physically stimulated. Leaky nipples is also a side effect of some medications, particularly antidepressants or antipsychotic drugs that increase levels of prolactin, the hormone that encourages the production of milk. Most of the time this side effect is nothing to worry about. Milky white discharge from the nipples could also be a sign of a noncancerous tumor. This is especially true if you are only having a problem with only one breast.

You can see your veins: If your veins are pale or translucent, you may be susceptible to sunburn or skin cancer. Be sure to take all the necessary precautions to protect yourself from too much sun exposure.

The skin on your breast looks like an orange peel: If your breast skin has always been smooth and you notice that it is rough – like an orange peel – it could be a sign that you have breast cancer. This is especially true if your nipple and areola are hard. Make an appointment immediately to get this checked into.

You have a retracted nipple or puckering of breast tissue: Any time you notice a puckering or dimpling of the skin or your nipple appears retracted, it is time to see a doctor. This is generally a sign of breast cancer and needs immediate attention.

Most importantly – do monthly self-exams

Be in touch with your breasts, look at them and feel them regularly. Do your self-exam religiously and pay attention to any changes. Many things that seem odd to others are simply part of who you are. Keeping a close eye on your breasts will allow you to notice any abnormal changes.

–The Backyard Vitality Team

Vaginas can be a touchy subject — even though all of us ladies have ‘em. When you suspect that something may be wrong, it can be challenging to seek advice. Of course, the Internet has been a saving grace in many ways, but it’s also a double-edged sword. The plethora of information available isn’t always the most accurate. Some will head to Google to self-diagnose, only to end up having a panic attack when they see some symptoms that match their own. Before we dive into the wonderful world of vaginas, I just want to remind you that doctors, and more specifically gynecologists, have seen a whole lot of “lady parts” in their day. You may be embarrassed, but for them, it’s just another day at the office. Please, if you are worried that something is abnormal — go get it checked out. Don’t put these things off.

Now that we have that out-of-the-way, I want to focus on something that many of you may be thinking, does my vagina smell normal? Yes, we’re going to go there. Here is what you should know and what you can do about it.

Vaginal odor: what’s normal?

Let’s start off by saying, ladies, we all have our own scent. And yes, your vagina is supposed to have a smell. Although there are a number of factors that increase the intensity, some women just naturally have a stronger odor. Here are a few fast facts to know:

• Depending on where you are in your menstrual cycle, vaginal odor can differ.
• Anything from heavily sweating to changing your diet can affect how you smell.
• A consistent, mild scent is generally a sign that your vagina is healthy and has a properly balanced pH. It’s when this scent changes that you need to be more concerned. These changes can represent a short-term issue or may be a sign that something more serious is going on.

My vagina smells a bit funky

If your vagina is smelling a bit funky, it may be due to a range of possible reasons. From a vaginal yeast infection to an overgrowth of bacteria, an unpleasant scent can be both worrisome and embarrassing. Although these issues are fairly common, it’s imperative that you figure out the root cause.

While focusing on bacterial vaginosis (BV), for instance, although you may feel alone and anxious, know that around 29 percent of American women (nearly one in three) experience this overgrowth of bacteria. Basically, when the normal pH of one’s vagina is off, this encourages bacterial growth.

Although douching is a clear risk factor, diet is also an area in which women can focus on as an effective preventative measure. Within one study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, researchers observed the link between BV and key dietary factors. It was found that both glycemic load and a low “Naturally Nutrient Rich” score was associated with greater BV prevalence and persistence.

Although you need to listen to your body, abnormal vaginal conditions typically lead to a foul smell, such as a fishy odor. More often than not, if there’s an issue such as an infection, you will also experience other key symptoms — itching, burning, increased discharge, and irritation.

How can I remedy my vaginal odor?

If you’re in the clear with your doctor but are still noticing a fairly strong scent (especially after sex or during your menstrual cycle), you can target this issue without reaching for any toxic feminine hygiene products. For some women, they can even tackle infections in the comfort of their home — here’s how.

 Take an apple cider vinegar bath

Remember, in many cases, the smell you’re noticing is due to an imbalanced pH. Normally, a vagina’s pH is anywhere between 3.8 to 4.5 — meaning, it’s acidic. Once the pH begins to creep up, this is when your lady parts are more prone to infection and bacterial overgrowth.

Apple cider vinegar is often praised and for good reason. Offering both antiseptic and antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar can help restore the acidity of your vaginal flora. To improve numerous aspects of your health, drink a diluted glass of apple cider vinegar (around one to two tablespoons) daily.

Even better, try an apple cider vinegar bath right before you go to bed. Here’s how to do it: Draw a warm bath and pour one to two cups of apple cider vinegar into the water. Next, soak for 20 to 30 minutes. When you’re done, rinse off with a quick cold shower to remove any apple cider vinegar on your skin.

Take an Epsom salt sitz bath

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that keeps the perineum ( the space between the rectum and vulva) clean and smelling fresh. It also provides relief from pain and itching in the genital area. Fill a shallow bath bowl that fits on your toilet with warm water and add one tablespoon of Epsom salts. Let your vaginal areas oak for about ten minutes and repeat at least twice a week for best results.

Use tea tree oil

Throughout history, tea tree oil has been used based on its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Within one study, at 300 milligrams per milliliter, tea tree oil was able to kill all cells of Trichomonas vaginalis — a sexually transmitted infection caused by a one-celled protozoan organism.

Whether you have a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, source quality, organic tea tree oil. You can apply it in one of two ways. First, you can add 10 to 15 drops to a warm bath and sit in this solution for at least half an hour. Or, you can add a couple of diluted drops to an organic tampon. Since your vaginal lining is quite sensitive, dilute the tea tree oil in a little coconut oil prior to insertion.

3. Consume more probiotics

Although your doctor will more than likely prescribe antibiotics, this can cause a vaginal infection to actually come back with a vengeance. Sure, you’ll be killing harmful bacteria, but you’ll also wipe out friendly bacteria, encouraging overgrowth of “bad” bacteria once again.

Instead, start taking probiotics to encourage optimal balance and positive health. When you suffer from BV, for instance, your vagina is out of equilibrium, and Lactobacillus numbers are reduced. While studying the effect of probiotics, researchers found that oral administration helped restore a woman’s vagina to normal levels.

By taking probiotic capsules, this “friendly” bacteria recolonized the vagina’s microbiome, leading to a Lactobacillus-dominated state in 64 percent of the experimental group, in comparison to 13 percent of the placebo group. To increase your intake, you can also consume foods such as miso, kefir, yogurt, tempeh, microalgae, sauerkraut, pickles, and other probiotic-rich options.

Pay attention to what you’re eating

It’s also important to note, that when aiming to change your vaginal odor, pay attention to what you’re eating on a regular basis. Although certain milk products, meat, and alcohol can cause short-term varying vaginal odors upon metabolism, it’s sugar that you want to watch out for.

It’s well understood that sugar is detrimental to our health. But in terms of vaginal odor and bacteria, it is also a key food source. Whether you are suffering from a bacterial or fungal infection, a high intake of sugar can essentially provide nourishment. This can worsen symptoms.

So ladies, there you have it — a little light vagina talk to end the week. The above suggestions are great to target odor and the severity of some infections. However, you must listen to your body. If you notice that symptoms worsen or are unaffected by some of the suggested methods above, it’s imperative that you take a little trip to the doctor.

Just like your heart or liver, you only have one vagina — so take care of it!

— The Backyard Vitality Team

These days, with the threat of antibiotic resistance, is on the rise, finding alternative ways to combat various forms of bacteria is essential. The good news is, natural antibiotic agents from the Earth – such as certain foods, herbs, and oils – are the best and often the most effective first line of defense against harmful pathogens. Using these first before turning to antibiotics can help preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics when they’re truly needed.

If you have an emergency or an infection that is spreading or persistent, go straight to the doctor. However, in the case of mild bacterial conditions and situations and to boost overall immunity, check out the following seven superfoods (number one is highly noteworthy):

Apple cider vinegar (ACV)

Science has long known that vinegar can help slow or stop the growth of several forms of bacteria, and raw, organic apple cider vinegar can safely be called a “super-vinegar.” It has been used traditionally for centuries as a “cure-all” tonic, and it is known to have highly potent antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties.

This amazing vinegar derives these characteristics from several components. These include both acetic acid and malic acid (which protects the vinegar against bacterial and fungal agents), a soluble fiber known as pectin, vitamins A, B6 C, and E, a wealth of minerals, and numerous antioxidants including beta carotene and lycopene.

Just a few of the traditional, time-tested uses of ACV throughout the years include combating infections including ear and skin conditions, alleviating fungus and warts, soothing digestive disorders, reducing allergy symptoms and inflammation, alkalizing and detoxifying the body and helping to prevent and treat seasonal illnesses.

Although scientific research on the use of ACV for some of these therapies is somewhat limited, the anecdotal evidence is vast. When it comes to both prevention and a great natural remedy, having a bottle of apple cider vinegar on hand is a smart move.

However, wait just a second. To enjoy all the benefits it has to offer, always choose raw, organic apple cider vinegar. You’ll know it because it will be brownish and cloudy, with a web-looking, murky substance afloat inside. This is the “mother of vinegar,” and lets you know your ACV is the good stuff.

Garlic

Garlic has been found to contain 39 different antibacterials, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic agents – that’s really something. This bulb contains a chemical known as allicin, which is responsible for many of its germ-fighting powers. Eating garlic on a regular basis provides a huge boost to the immune system, and may help combat existing infections as well.

For best results with garlic, use raw, organic bulbs.

Manuka honey

This unique type of honey is known as the “Queen of Honey” by many, and for good reason. Honey has natural antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal compounds (little surprise, as it never spoils), and manuka honey has been found to have up to 200 times the antibacterial ability of any other honey.

Some common applications for manuka honey (which is used in hospitals around the world) include treating wounds, burns, dermatitis, and abscesses. It has also been used to help women recovery after a Caesarian section (C-section).

Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant – it has been found to be up to eight times stronger than vitamin C. This is great for keeping your immune system in top shape, and for helping to prevent, and recover from, a variety of illnesses.

This Indian spice also contains a compound known as curcumin, which may help to maintain proper cellular organization, and thereby, optimal health.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon contains numerous essential oils, with active components including cinnamyl acetate, cinnamyl alcohol, and cinnamaldehyde. These compounds not only help to lower inflammation throughout the body, they also have powerful fighting power against pathogens.

Studies have found that cinnamon can help to stop the spread of foodborne bacteria, and this is just the tip of the iceberg for this delicious spice.

Lemon

Lemons are high in immune-boosting, disease-fighting vitamin C – and are not to be caught without come cold and flu season. They also contain limonene, a powerful antioxidant compound, as well as citric acid and calcium. All of these combine to make lemon an antibacterial powerhouse.

Lemons are perfect both for adding meals and beverages and for use in homemade cleaning solutions.

Ginger

Ginger is also chock full of volatile essential oils, which house antimicrobial compounds including gingerols and shogaols. This rhizome has been used for centuries to aid in detoxification and reduce inflammation, and eating it on a regular basis will help to keep your body’s systems ready for anything.

Detoxification is also very important for healthy gut bacteria, which are directly tied to a healthy immune system.

Note: Before starting to use any of these foods and spices therapeutically, talk to a health professional you trust about how to most effectively use it – as well as how much, and for how long – for your intended purpose. Nature’s offerings are potent, so make sure to use these amazing remedies wisely.

-The Backyard Vitality Team

Millions of Americans start their day off with a hot cup of coffee. There is just something comforting about the aroma and taste of a good cup of joe. There are lots of good reasons why I feel good about my love of coffee, and I have found a new way to reap even more health benefits. For the last month, I have been eating a keto diet and adding delicious and nutritious fat to my morning brew.

Before I reveal the results of my month-long self-experiment, I want to remind you of a few of the reasons why you should embrace your coffee habit.

Coffee kick-starts metabolism

Caffeine has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, which raises metabolism and increases the oxidation of fatty acids. It also mobilizes fatty acids from fat tissues, and there is good evidence that it increases athletic performance

Coffee may reduce your risk of Type 2 diabetes

Type ll diabetes in our country is skyrocketing in America and now afflicts almost 1 in 8 people. Coffee appears to do a good job regulating blood sugar. Numerous studies demonstrate that coffee has been associated with a 23% to 67% lower risk of diabetes.

Coffee has nutrients and antioxidants

Coffee beats fruits and vegetables as the best source of antioxidants in the American diet. Many people think that coffee is nothing but black water. Well, you can now tell them that they are wrong. Here are percentages of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) contained in one cup of coffee:

• 6% RDA for vitamin B5
• 11% RDA for vitamin B2
• 2% RDA for B3 and B1
• 3% RDA for potassium and manganese

Drink a few cups, and you will have consumed quite a few essential vitamins and minerals for the day!

Coffee improves mood and brain power

Now, this is one I can totally agree on. I always feel better after a cup of coffee, and I was never quite sure why until I dug a little deeper. According to research, drinking coffee can also boost your brain power and your mood.

Caffeine blocks the effects that the neurotransmitter adenosine has on the brain. By doing so, the caffeine increases brain activity and the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. Controlled trials have examined the effects that caffeine has on the brain and have found that it improves mood, reaction time, memory and overall cognitive function.

What’s so special about grass-fed butter and MCT oil?

First of all, it is important to identify the two sources of fat that I added to my coffee. The first was grass-fed butter and second was MCT oil. Let’s explore a few of the health benefits of each of these.

Grass-fed butter

Grass-fed cows graze on green pastures which is the best possible food source for them. They produce grass-fed milk which creates grass-fed cream, which is made into grass-fed butter.

Non-grass-fed butter is made from milk produced by cows that eat an unhealthy and unnatural diet including:

• Corn
• Soy
• Grains
• Miscellaneous high starches
• Hormones
• Antibiotics
• Other supplemental byproducts of vegetable oil

Remember, you get all of that filler and bad stuff inside of you when you buy butter that is not from grass-fed cows. It is totally worth spending the extra money.

Grass-fed butter protects you from heart disease

The antioxidants in butter work to combat all of the dangerous free radicals roaming throughout our body. Butter also contains a number of essential nutrients that protect you from heart disease including vitamins A, D, K2, and E, iodine, selenium, and lecithin.

A survey conducted by the Medical Research Council demonstrated that men eating butter had half the risk of developing heart disease as those eating margarine.

Grass-fed butter boosts the immune system

Butter contains a type of vitamin A which is also found in meat, poultry, and dairy. It is essential to immune system function as well as healthy lung, kidney, and heart function. In places where vitamin A deficiency is common, infectious disease is a significant problem. Vitamin A is also necessary for growth, reproduction, eye, and skin health.

Grass-fed butter protects your joints

A Dutch researcher name Wulzen found that butter contains an “anti-stiffness” hormone that is known as the Wulzen factor. This protects joints from degenerative arthritis as well as hardening of the arteries, cataracts, and calcification of the pineal gland. However, this substance is destroyed during the pasteurization process so eating raw milk and grass-fed butter is best.

Butter is good for your thyroid

Butter contains a fair amount of iodine in a highly absorbable form. Consuming butter regularly will keep your thyroid functioning properly. If you feel tired, depressed, or have a tough time losing weight, you may have a problem with your thyroid.

About five percent of all Americans suffer from hypothyroidism (inadequate levels of thyroid hormone). It could be that the food you thought you needed to steer clear of to manage your weight is just the one you need to be eating more frequently.

Butter protects from cancer

Butter contains a plethora of short and medium-chain fatty acids which have been shown to have potent anti-tumor effects. In addition, butter contains conjugated linoleic acid which provides exemplary protection from cancer. Also, vitamin A, vitamin E, selenium, and cholesterol protect against cancer and heart disease.

MCT Oil

MCT, or medium-chain triglycerides, are saturated fatty acid compounds that are extracted from MCT-rich oils like coconut oil or palm kernel oil. Unlike long-chain fatty acids, medium-chain triglycerides are efficiently digested and sent directly to the liver, where they are instantly converted from fat into heat, boosting metabolic processes and supporting healthy cardiovascular function.

As with many other forms of saturated fatty acids, MCTs are often deficient in the average American diet, largely due to the misinformation fed to the general public by the U.S. government for 30-odd years. Contrary to popular belief, we now know that saturated fats from healthy sources like coconut oil should actually be consumed every day.

Here are just a few of the health benefits of MCT oil.

MCT oil can increase weight loss

It might seem a little hard to believe that consuming fat could actually help you lose weight, but that’s precisely what the research suggests! A 2015 study found that replacing long-chain fatty acids with MCTs could induce weight loss without adversely affecting lipid profiles, while a 2017 study showed that MCT oil was superior even to coconut oil in increasing satiety and reducing food intake. And increased satiety means losing weight just got a whole lot easier!

MCT oil improves insulin sensitivity

As most people know, a major precursor to diabetes is increasing insulin resistance. This means that blood glucose can run rampant without adequate levels of insulin to keep it in balance, and type 2 diabetes is just around the corner. A 2016 study showed that feeding MCT oil to mice on a high-fat diet not only prevented body fat accumulation, it also prevented the development of insulin resistance that was seen in mice fed a high-fat diet without MCT oil.

MCT oil supports a healthy gut

MCT oil supports a healthy gut, and in so doing may help to fight obesity. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Nutrients found that MCTs can “ameliorate metabolic health via their capacity to improve both the intestinal ecosystem and permeability.” Researchers concluded that MCT oil could not only help to improve gut health but can also help to prevent the development of obesity by supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

MCT oil improves memory and concentration

Recent research proves that the claims regarding MCT oil’s brain-boosting prowess are very much true. A 2015 study showed that supplementing with MCT oil was able to increase circulating ketone bodies, a process that is known to improve brain function. Study participants who received 56 grams per day of MCT oil for 24 weeks showed improved memory, improved concentration, and overall improvement in cognitive function.

What happened when I put these delicious and healthy fats in my morning coffee

For the past month, I have been putting one tablespoon of grass-fed butter and one tablespoon of MCT oil in my 16-ounce cup of organic coffee along with some cinnamon and vanilla stevia for added flavor. First, of all let me tell you that when you put this in the blender, it makes a beautiful, tasty frothy cup of coffee that I look forward to each morning.

I have kept notes as to the things I have noticed since drinking my fat coffee each morning and here are some things I have noticed:

• I am full enough to not eat until 3 pm each day. This helps with the intentional intermittent fasting that I am doing.
• I have experienced increased mental clarity and focus.
• I have experienced sustained energy all day long.
• My hair and skin seem healthier.
• I can work out longer without getting tired.
• My nails are stronger.

These were enough preliminary benefits to convince me that my mornings just wouldn’t be the same without my fatty cup of “Jo.”

-The Backyard Vitality Team

When we take a prescription drug, we usually take it with the belief that it can benefit our health, or take away the pain that we’re suffering from. We pop pills to reduce high blood pressure, pills for anxiety and/or depression, pills to help us sleep, pills to fight infection, and pills for just about everything that ails us, real or imagined.

While there is no doubt that prescription drugs can save lives, the problem is that our penchant for those pills can often mask symptoms, without actually getting to the root cause of the issue, not to mention creating more problems in the process. Many of these medications come with a very long list of side effects.

Big Pharma seems to be working very hard at creating customers, rather than cures. When you take a drug, it often leads to more problems, and ultimately, more drugs.  Some of the most common prescription medications include antidepressants, anti-anxiety, and pain pills. Though drugs for insomnia, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and antibiotics for battling infections are also commonly prescribed.

In 2017, there were nearly 4.5 million prescriptions filled, according to Consumer Reports, with many Americans under the impression that every symptom of every disease requires some kind of drug.

As there are thousands of drugs on the market today, it would be impossible to cover each and every one, but the good news is that there are effective natural substitutes that can be used to cure much of what ails you without the side effects and potential for addiction. If you don’t find it here, do a little research before you pop that pill.

Painkillers

With the skyrocketing opioid epidemic in our nation, we’ll start with painkillers. No one enjoys living with pain, which means that if you’re suffering from any painful condition, you may think turning to prescription drugs is the only option that will bring you relief. Unfortunately, those little pills typically come not only with all sorts of side effects but also with a high risk of addiction that can make them worse than what was causing the pain in the first place.

Prescription painkillers work by binding with receptors in the brain that are responsible for acknowledging pain, thereby lessening the body’s perception of pain or discomfort and creating a sense of mild euphoria. The most potent pharmaceutical painkillers are opioids, opium-like compounds that are made to react on the nervous system similar to the way drugs that are derived from the opium poppy, like heroin, do.

Thanks to the promises made by the pharmaceutical industry to provide near-miraculous relief, doctors no prescribe them by the boatload, to practically every man, woman, and child. But addiction is a significant concern, particularly for those who have a history of drug abuse in their families, although anyone can be lead to total dependence, or even overdose, which can and often does become fatal.

The American Society of Addiction Medicine reports that drug overdose was the leading cause of accidental death in the United States in 2015, with over 52,400 lethal drug overdoses that year, including more than 20,100 overdose deaths related to prescription pain relievers.

According to Narconon, in 2010, over five million people abused a prescription painkiller, while The Centers For Disease and Prevention reports that overdose deaths involving prescription opioids have quadrupled since 1999. During the period between 1999 and 2015, more than 183,000 people died in the U.S. from overdoses related to prescription opioid painkillers.

Those are some scary statistics. These pills cause death by overdose just like heroin. They can suppress breathing causing the user to die by suffocating. If the addict doesn’t die in the short term, the damage to kidneys, liver intestinal tract, lungs, circulatory system, and heart that can be caused by abusing these drugs, will likely lead to significant health problems or even premature death. Pregnant women who use them can subject their growing baby to birth defects, and addicts are often exposed to blood-borne diseases as well.

Fortunately, there are some very effective natural substitutes for painkillers, especially when it comes to inflammation-related pain, including:

Turmeric. That bright yellow spice from India used in curry dishes offers powerful anti-inflammatory properties that are well-known for helping to manage the pain of arthritis, relieving pain from conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Dr. Minerva Santos told the New York Times that she frequently recommends it to her patients that are suffering from sore, achy joints. It works due to an active compound in the spice known as curcumin.

There have been a number of studies focused on curcumin’s ability to inhibit inflammation-related pain. A 2009 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, compared it against ibuprofen for the relief of pain associated with knee osteoarthritis and found that it worked just as well.

Spicy Foods. If you like spicy foods, you’re in luck. While they can cause a little pain, they can also take it away. They contain high levels of antioxidants and powerful plant compounds known as capsaicinoids, which have been shown to prevent chronic diseases and relieve pain. They’re also what gives foods like peppers their heat. Cayenne pepper is especially beneficial for pain relief, but jalapeno, serrano, and habanero peppers all contain capsaicinoids too.

In addition to being a potent anti-inflammatory, it also provides relief by depleting the body’s supply of a chemical component of nerve cells known as substance P, which transmits pain signals to the brain and helps to desensitize sensory receptors in the skin. That’s why, if you take a look at the ingredient lists of topical pain-relieving creams, you’ll often see capsaicin or capsaicinoids.

Co-founder and director of New Mexico State University’s Chile Pepper Institute explained just how capsaicin works to ABC News, noting, “The endorphins work to block the heat. The body produces them in response to the heat, which it senses as pain”. If you use the capsaicin long enough, “these pain nerve cells will become ‘exhausted,’ having depleted their internal chemical stores.”  The nerve cells are left unable to respond to anything else, which means you no longer perceive pain, making it an analgesic remedy.

Epsom Salt. Epsom salt isn’t like table salt; it’s a pure mineral compound made up of magnesium and sulfate. It offers anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve joint pain as well as sore muscles, which is why many use it to create a healing bath for pain relief. This makes it particularly useful when you have pulled a muscle or have a cramp, such as in your hamstring or another area of the body.

A warm bath with Epsom salt has been shown to ease the pain and inflammation, which is at the root of a wide range of illnesses and diseases. Simply soaking your body in a warm bath containing Epsom salt can increase internal levels of magnesium naturally. This helps reduce overall bodily inflammation as low magnesium has been linked with higher C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of inflammation in the body.

Antidepressants

A study conducted by the Mayo Clinic in 2013 found that an astonishing 7 out of 10 American adults were on some type of pharmaceutically prescribed drug, with the second most common prescription for antidepressants. The researchers found that nearly one in four women from the ages of 50 through 64, and 13 percent of the population overall, were on these medications.

There are a lot of risks that come with antidepressants, as the Harvard Medical School reports, and this list is not all-inclusive:

• Sexual side effects, such as the loss of sexual desire and satisfaction and the inability to perform, delaying or inhibiting ejaculation in men and delaying or preventing orgasm in women.
• Insomnia
• Skin rashes
• Headaches
• Joint and muscle pain
• Digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and stomach upset
• A reduced blood clotting capacity
• An increased risk of stomach or uterine bleeding
• Suicidal thoughts
• Violent behavior

Instead of taking an antidepressant, you might want to try:

Fish Oil. Multiple studies have found that taking fish oil supplements may reduce the symptoms of depression. Research published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience focusing on the effects of the supplement in adolescents suffering from a major depressive disorder demonstrated an impressive 40 percent reduction in symptoms.

Additionally, when the brain lacks EPA and DHA, that deficiency has been linked to many different mental disorders. Scientific data has shown that in addition to depression, it may be associated with a learning disability or even violent behavior. The oil may effectively treat postpartum depression as well as seasonal affective disorder and even bipolar disorder.

Turmeric. Not only can turmeric help with your pain, but it may also help relieve your depression. A groundbreaking study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that the compound was as effective as Prozac for treating depression, yet it lacked serious side effects and was well-tolerated by all patients. The researchers believe that the reason curcumin may be so effective is that of its ability to inhibit monoamine oxidase, an enzyme that’s been associated with depression when found in high levels in the brain. It also helps to increase levels of dopamine and serotonin in the brain, which can lead to greater feelings of calm and well-being.

Insomnia

SleepEducation.org reports that among Americans, about a third suffer from brief episodes of insomnia, while some 15 to 20 percent have insomnia that lasts for up to three months or short-term insomnia disorder. About ten percent are diagnosed with chronic insomnia disorder, which is defined as insomniacal episodes of at least three times a week, occurring for three months or more.

While taking sleeping pills seems like an easy solution, they also come with significant risks and side effects. It’s easy to build up a tolerance to these drugs, meaning you’ll need higher and higher doses to get the same effects. They can also cause problems like sleepwalking and amnesia – you could wake up and not know where you are.

Why risk that? Instead, try:

Food and drink that can induce sleep. There are a number of foods that offer nutrients that can promote a better night’s sleep. Foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, famous as the compound in turkey that makes dinner guests want to take a snooze after eating, is also found in chicken, bananas, yogurt, fish, eggs, nuts and seeds. Tryptophan can promote sleep as it’s necessary for producing serotonin, a hormone that helps regulate one’s mood and promote relaxation. 

The body also uses it to make melatonin, a hormone that impacts wake and sleep cycles. Bananas are especially good as they offer potassium and magnesium too – if you have a low level of magnesium, it can negatively impact your sleep. A 2012 study found that taking a magnesium supplement for eight weeks was able to alleviate symptoms of insomnia in elderly participants. Potassium also helps to encourage sleep and relaxation as it’s known for lowering blood pressure and relaxing the muscles.

Some herbal teas, which lack caffeine, can cause you to sleep better by inducing a feeling of calm and promoting relaxation. Chamomile tea is particularly well known for its ability to battle insomnia.

Lavender essential oil. Putting a couple of drops of lavender essential oil in a diffuser in your bedroom to inhale as you sleep, or on a tissue placed under your pillow, may help you get the rest you need. It’s been used for centuries to help those who are restless fall asleep and stay asleep.

The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that using lavender as part of aromatherapy may help to slow the activity of the nervous system, promote a more relaxed state and improve the quality of sleep. In fact, in Germany, lavender flowers made into tea were approved for use in treating insomnia.

The bottom line is that instead of blindly taking a pill for anything and everything that ails you, unless it’s a true emergency, do some research first. There’s likely to be an effective, natural substitute that can help, without all of the risks.

-The Backyard Vitality Team