Colette H.’s Post

Apples https://lnkd.in/gMbu9Qs Fun Fact: 25% of an apple’s volume is air and that is why they float. A low-calorie snack, high in both soluble & insoluble fiber. Apple fiber helps lower cholesterol & keep you regular. The powerful flavonoids reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, & cancer. Flavonoids promote heart health by reducing platelet adhesion in arteries, lowering cholesterol, & relaxing & dilating arteries. Apples are low on calories, but heavy on quertecin, a powerful antioxidant that protects brain cell degeneration, which can lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Adults who eat apples are less likely to develop high blood pressure, according to one study. Apples can also help to prevent colon cancer, as well as promote healthy teeth & weight loss. Apples have been found to help regulate blood sugar & are a great source of dietary fiber. They contain a high amount of vitamin C, potassium, & vitamin K. They also provide some B vitamins. Studies suggest that the antioxidants in apples can promote heart health & reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, cancer, & Alzheimer’s. The antioxidant activity in apples has also been linked with increased bone density in animal & test-tube studies. Another notable health benefit of apples is their pectin content. Pectin is a prebiotic fiber that feeds the good bacteria in your gut & helps improve digestion & metabolic health. WEIGHT LOSS: Weight Loss Researchers from the State University of Rio de Janeiro studying the impact of fruit intake on weight loss found that overweight women who ate the equivalent of three apples or pears a day lost more weight on a low-calorie diet than women who didn’t add fruit to their diet. BRAIN HEALTH- Age-Related Memory Loss & Alzheimer’s Disease: A growing body of evidence from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell suggests that eating apples & drinking apple juice can be beneficial when it comes to improving brain health & diminishing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Brain Health & Neurodegenerative Diseases: Researchers from Cornell University also found in their in vitro study that apple nutrients protected brain neurons against oxidative damage. Such damage can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s. CANCER Breast Cancer: A series of studies at Cornell University evaluated the direct effects of apples on breast cancer prevention in animals. The more apples consumed, the greater the reduction in incidence or number of tumors among test animals. Pancreatic Cancer: Quercetin, a flavonoid found naturally in apples, has been identified as one of the most beneficial flavonols in preventing & reducing the risk of pancreatic cancer. Although the overall risk was reduced among the study participants, smokers who consumed foods rich in flavonols had a significantly greater risk reduction. Colon & Liver Cancer: A research team at Cornell University identified a group of phytochemicals that are...

This month in therapeutic carbohydrate restriction and metabolic health: Research roundup for September—posting for Nutrition Network (https://lnkd.in/duHfeS7T)   The results of studies that compared low-carbohydrate and low-fat methods for weight loss (https://lnkd.in/dv9g9stq), visceral fat (https://lnkd.in/dmxrT-uY), and adipose tissue depots in older adults (https://lnkd.in/duH7cd8A) were superior with the low-carbohydrate method. This adds to the evidence that lowering carbohydrates to a therapeutic level is one way to improve metabolic health.   Neuman et al. (https://lnkd.in/d_kR4AVv) demonstrate that a low-carbohydrate diet in children and young people with type 1 diabetes improved glycaemic parameters without increasing time in hypoglycaemia without negatively affecting lipid profiles or quality of life features.   Metabolic psychiatry is becoming a consistent feature of these roundups, with more from Nicole Laurent, LMHC, Dr Erin Louise Bellamy MHP et al., examining the evidence and implications for ketogenic diets in clinical psychology (https://lnkd.in/dATPWUSk), a commentary on the ketogenic diet for anorexia nervosa (https://lnkd.in/dK7wU_Zn), and a pilot study on a ketogenic intervention for depression from Drew Decker (https://lnkd.in/d2qAst_D)   Other interesting studies include commentary on the potential of a ketogenic approach for muscle rupture (https://lnkd.in/dkrX-ZdT), inflammatory bowel disease (https://lnkd.in/dK8B6zSW), and altitude sickness (https://lnkd.in/d-_tNj3R). A case study utilising a ketogenic diet in a patient with morbid obesity, acute kidney injury and advanced chronic kidney disease adds to the growing body of evidence indicating the therapeutic value of a ketogenic diet in this setting (https://lnkd.in/dRVgp9cJ).   See the NN website for the full listing, which includes many familiar potential applications of therapeutic carbohydrate reduction (https://lnkd.in/duHfeS7T). Main research listing: https://lnkd.in/egt7DjFS

Cystic Fibrosis is a complex multi system disorder characterized by by abnormally thick secretions from exocrine gland that impairs the function of lungs and digestive system. Poor nutrition is observed with unfavorable energy balance due to increased stool energy losses and increased energy requirements related to disease severity , also reduced oral energy intake causing flatering growth. More energy is required in their diets during periods of infection to support breathing and malabsorption. A healthy body weight and a good lung function is a key indicator showing that they are well nourished. Poor health may led to futher medical conditions linked with Cystic fibrosis such as -Oesteopenia or oesteoporosis affecting the bone health due to late and less release of hormones especially in late puberty causing a need of more time to grow also weak breathing making a person less active hence causing weak bones and skin body stress which releases cytokines to fight infection leading to less calcium. -CFR Diabetes caused by pancreas damage affecting enzyme , hormone and digestive juice production. -Distal intestinal obstruction Syndrome affecting the bowel and intestines caused by food and mucus obstruction leading to pain, a good intake of fibre can help to maintain microphone which support the immune system, hydration and fluid intake. - With constipation the use of polyethylene glycol can bring positive impacts. - Those with liver diseases an intake of protein should be limited 1.8-2.0 kg/ day and a good optimal weight maintainance. - Gastro oesophageal reflux diseases can be relieved by a trial of medications such as antacids like PPI as Ameprazole. It's important to ensure a hig fat and high energy diet by recommending a higher number of serving according to calorie intake while considering the age and weight together with vitamins supplementation of fat soluble ones ( vitABDECK multivitamin ) . Choosing DHA over Omega 6 inorder to maintain a balance with anaerobic exercises of 30 minutes daily. A good intake of minerals esp Na, Cl, Ca ,Fe and Zn. Inadequate salt causes stomach pains ,weakness ,nausea and headaches. Though the intake varies with symptoms, dietary intake, climate and PA. Ensure fluid supplementation to prevent dehydration. Also undertaking pancreatic enzyme capsules to help digestion ie. Crean Enzyme. Use of probiotics which can reduce inflamations and exacertations , increase lung function and GI health. Supper foods in CF diet are fish, tomatoes, broccoli, olive oil, brazilian nuts, beans ,soy ,natural yoghurt but incase of tube feeding ( enteral) should be taken to account with individual preference, clinical preference , age ,life style. The benefits and side effects of anabolic and appetite stimulants must be taken to account while special consideration should be made to those with eating disorders especially atypical type. #cysticfibrosis# #specialneeds#

Akkermansia muciniphila: A Key Player in Gut Health Akkermansia muciniphila is a beneficial bacterium residing in the human gut, known for its significant role in maintaining and improving metabolic health by reducing fats and sugars and increasing GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) levels. Key Functions Fat Reduction: Akkermansia enhances lipid metabolism through several mechanisms: Gene Expression: It influences the expression of genes involved in fat breakdown and storage, promoting fatty acid oxidation and reducing lipogenesis (fat creation). This leads to a decrease in overall adiposity. Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs): Akkermansia produces SCFAs, such as acetate and butyrate, which play a role in regulating fat metabolism. These SCFAs can activate pathways that enhance the breakdown of fats and improve energy expenditure [[❞]](https://lnkd.in/gRCqAVr2) [[❞]](https://lnkd.in/gd8P5VV5). Modulating Gut Hormones: By influencing gut hormones like GLP-1, Akkermansia helps regulate appetite and energy balance, further contributing to fat reduction [[❞]](https://lnkd.in/gd8P5VV5). Sugar Regulation: This bacterium helps control blood sugar levels by modulating glucose absorption and enhancing insulin sensitivity. It supports better glucose homeostasis, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes [[❞]](https://lnkd.in/gRCqAVr2). GLP-1 Secretion: Akkermansia stimulates the secretion of GLP-1, a hormone that enhances insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, and slows gastric emptying, leading to improved glucose control and appetite regulation [[❞]](https://lnkd.in/gd8P5VV5). Enhancing Akkermansia Levels To support and increase Akkermansia levels: Diet: Consuming prebiotic fibers found in foods like chicory root, onions, and garlic promotes its growth. Probiotics: Supplements designed to deliver Akkermansia to the gut can enhance its presence and benefits. Maintaining a healthy level of Akkermansia muciniphilais crucial for overall well-being, emphasizing the importance of gut health in preventing and managing metabolic disorders. For more detailed information, you can read the full article on [NCBI's website](https://lnkd.in/gPYGGjmE).

Antioxidants for Health Antioxidants play a crucial role in promoting a healthy life by protecting the body against oxidative stress, which is caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Here's why antioxidants are important for maintaining health: Neutralizing Free Radicals: Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating electrons, thereby stabilizing them and preventing them from causing damage to cells, DNA, and tissues. Protecting Against Chronic Diseases: Oxidative stress has been linked to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Antioxidants help reduce the risk of these diseases by combating oxidative damage. Supporting Immune Function: Antioxidants support the immune system by protecting immune cells from oxidative damage. This helps the body's defense mechanisms function optimally, reducing the risk of infections and promoting overall health. Promoting Skin Health: Oxidative stress can contribute to premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, help protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by environmental factors like UV radiation and pollutants, thereby promoting skin health and maintaining a youthful appearance. Reducing Inflammation: Oxidative stress can trigger inflammation in the body, leading to tissue damage and the progression of inflammatory diseases. Antioxidants help reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals and inhibiting pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. Supporting Heart Health: Antioxidants, particularly flavonoids found in fruits, vegetables, and tea, have been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease. They help protect the heart and blood vessels by reducing oxidative damage, lowering inflammation, and improving blood vessel function. Protecting Brain Health: Oxidative stress is implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, have neuroprotective effects and may help preserve cognitive function and reduce the risk of age-related cognitive decline. Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains into your diet is an effective way to ensure adequate antioxidant intake and support overall health and well-being. Additionally, antioxidant supplements may be beneficial for individuals who have difficulty meeting their antioxidant needs through diet alone, although it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplementation regimen. #worldhealthday#health#Antioxidant#Oxidativedegeneration

Nutrition exercise and healthy lifestyle is the key to reclaim the liver back

December 2024 research roundup for Nutrition Network: TCR and Metabolic health (https://lnkd.in/d5mi5AWD)   There are no holidays when it comes to new research papers in the area of metabolic health and therapeutic carbohydrate reduction (TCR)!   In metabolic health, a paper by Zinn et al. (https://lnkd.in/dZs2d8q9) underlines the possibilities of a collaborative approach (using health coaches and wellbeing advisors) to support the implementation of lifestyle changes for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes, focusing on 2 diverse community settings. TCR can be applied in a variety of settings and demonstrates potential as an adjunct for the treatment of obesity in a paediatric population (https://lnkd.in/dtsXS_-s), patients with fibromyalgia (https://lnkd.in/dxziJQNS), women experiencing polycystic ovarian syndrome (https://lnkd.in/dURyc8XS), and women with knee osteoarthritis (https://lnkd.in/deRcZHxp).   Commentary exploring the role of ketogenic interventions for psychiatric conditions (this month features OCD, https://lnkd.in/dUGfcDaP) has continued throughout the year, and December has been no exception. This month features a couple of papers discussing neurodevelopmental conditions (https://lnkd.in/dfrYY3Pp).   An important paper, 'Clinical research framework proposal for ketogenic metabolic therapy in glioblastoma', from Duraj et al. (https://lnkd.in/daprRi6z) presents a detailed overview on the role of ketogenic metabolic therapy (KMT), which includes details on metabolic targets, implementation and troubleshooting, and research challenges. A new RCT from Bahrami et al. (https://lnkd.in/dUGi4yKp) has demonstrated that a cyclic fasting mimicking diet (FMD) is well tolerated during chemotherapy, provides metabolic benefits, and may reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy.   An emerging variation of TCR is a zero carbohydrate, carnivore approach. This approach has recently increased in popularity with benefits reported across a range of conditions where standard low-carbohydrate or ketogenic applications have not produced the desired results. A new paper by Goedeke et al. (Caryn Zinn, Tamzyn Murphy) (https://lnkd.in/dviwz9U6) assesses the nutrient composition by way of a case study model of 4 variations of the carnivore approach. The paper identifies potential nutrient shortfalls to be aware of (monitoring suggested), which necessitates a considered approach towards implementation and management for those who find it helpful for their conditions (see paper for details).   The full listing is available under the monthly roundups section of the Nutrition Network website (https://lnkd.in/dqMNwjSZ)

“Fatty Liver: The Silent Pandemic, Overlooked 🌍❤️” Working in general practice, I see fatty liver almost daily. Yet, the response to this condition feels frustratingly minimal. Often, it’s treated as a passing observation: “Your scans show a fatty liver.” And that’s it—no follow-up, no plan, no real sense of urgency. But Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD) is not “just fat around the liver.” It’s a serious, preventable, and reversible condition—one that tells us the body is out of balance, out of harmony. 🩺 Why the Name Change? The shift from Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) to MAFLD underscores its true drivers: • Poor diet • Obesity • Insulin resistance • Lack of physical activity • Chronic stress This isn’t just a liver issue—it’s a metabolic pandemic. 🌱 The Lifestyle Medicine Perspective Fatty liver is the textbook example of a lifestyle-driven condition. There’s no pharmaceutical cure, but the good news is that lifestyle changes can reverse it and prevent it altogether. 🔥 The Alarming Stats • Over 25% of the global population has MAFLD. • It’s now a leading cause of liver transplants. (Source: Journal of Hepatology, 2023) 💡 What Can Be Done? Lifestyle Medicine holds the key to tackling fatty liver. Here’s how: 🥗 Nutrition • Whole, unprocessed foods: 🍳 Proteins, 🥦 vegetables, 🥑 healthy fats. • Avoid sugary drinks, trans fats, and refined carbs. • Consider the Mediterranean diet—proven to reduce liver fat. (Source: Nutrition Reviews, 2022) 🏃♂️ Physical Activity • Aerobic exercise and strength training reduce liver fat and improve insulin sensitivity. (Source: Hepatology Journal, 2020) ⚖️ Weight Management • Losing just 5–10% of body weight can significantly improve liver health. 🧘♀️ Stress and Sleep • Chronic stress fuels inflammation. Prioritise: 🌿 Mindfulness 🛌 7–9 hours of quality sleep 📅 Regular Check-ups • Early detection through blood tests and imaging can stop progression. 🌟 Why Aren’t We Doing More? As a clinician, it’s disheartening to see how little initiative there is in tackling this pandemic . Unlike diabetes or hypertension, fatty liver isn’t getting the attention it deserves. • Why aren’t we seeing more initiatives in practice? • Why aren’t we addressing this as the metabolic condition it is? • Why aren’t we taking advantage of the fact that this disease is completely preventable and reversible? This isn’t just a liver issue. It’s a sign—a signal that something deeper is wrong, that the body is out of balance. We need to do more to address the root causes. #MAFLDAwareness 🩺 #LiverHealth 🌿 #LifestyleMedicine ❤️ #PreventionIsKey 💡 #SmallStepsBigImpact 🚶♀️

Posting a selection of studies for Nutrition Network. The August roundup is available on the website ( https://lnkd.in/dgTVXjZQ )   In reproductive health, a study (https://lnkd.in/dgy42Wwn ) comparing a hypocaloric well-formulated ketogenic diet with a isocaloric/isonitrogenous low-fat diet on self-reported menses in pre-menopausal overweight and obese women found that positive changes were reported by most of the women following a ketogenic diet, but none following the low-fat diet. Both groups experienced weight loss suggesting there may be unique benefits of nutritional ketosis independent of weight loss.   In neurology, a study (https://lnkd.in/dJzezuZG) has demonstrated that a ketogenic diet may be beneficial as an adjunct in cerebral haemorrhage recovery, providing 'notable advantages in terms of neurological and functional recovery, metabolic health, cognitive performance, and emotional well-being'.   In child and adolescent health, two studies looking at overweight and obesity report benefits of a low-carbohydrate intervention for a paediatric population (https://lnkd.in/d4H7FrJQ) and an adolescent population (https://lnkd.in/dK_bEmA2).   In metabolic psychiatry, the effect of ketogenic therapies on metabolism is examined in the context of neuropsychiatric illness (https://lnkd.in/d8dbsePr), and, in case you missed it, a case study demonstrating the effective management of treatment-resistant depressive symptoms in bipolar disorder (https://lnkd.in/dpxCtRAQ).   Technically, this is a September study (I couldn't resist), hot off the press, a case series reporting on the use of a carnivore-ketogenic diet for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (https://lnkd.in/dv_H6AMd). This report on 10 patients presenting with a variety of conditions that included ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease found clinical improvements for all individuals. These promising results deserve urgent attention and further research.   See the link for the full listing (https://lnkd.in/dgTVXjZQ).

The Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger: A Comprehensive Overview - Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Ginger contains bioactive compounds that counteract neutrophil hyperactivity in autoimmune diseases by increasing cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). This in turn inhibits the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which are implicated in the inflammation associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and antiphospholipid syndrome. - Gut Health and Digestion: Ginger accelerates gastric emptying, reducing the risk of heartburn and indigestion. It also enhances gut microbiome diversity, which can help suppress long-term weight gain. - Pain Relief: Ginger is effective in modulating pain associated with menstruation, osteoarthritis, migraines, and muscle soreness. Its pain-relieving properties are attributed to its ability to inhibit the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are compounds involved in pain and inflammation. - Cardioprotective Effects: Ginger also exhibits cardioprotective properties, which may be due to its antihypertensive and antiplatelet activities. This suggests a potential role in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. - Historical and Cultural Significance: Originating from tropical Asia, ginger has been used for over 5,000 years. The trade and use of ginger spread significantly after the fall of the Roman Empire, taken up by Arab merchants and integrated into European markets. - Current Research and Future Potential: Ongoing research continues to uncover the mechanisms behind ginger's health benefits. The recent study from the University of Michigan and subsequent trials indicate that ginger's role in fighting inflammation and enhancing immune function makes it a promising supplement for treating a range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Incorporating ginger into one's diet can be done through various forms such as fresh root, powder, or supplements, and it continues to be a subject of interest in both nutritional science and traditional medicine for its extensive health benefits.