Restore Your Fertility With These Herbal Products

Male infertility is one big problem that is currently plaguing many homes. So many marriages have been broken because of the inability of the man to perform, bringing sadness to many people. One challenging aspect of infertility is that orthodox drugs most times, do no have answers for it. 

However, there is good news. Because of its hormonal origin, infertility problems can be solved through herbal remedies. Below are some of the tested and proven herbal remedies for male infertility. 

MH5 is an herbal reproductive tonic formulated specifically to support male reproductive health and fertility. 
MH5 combines the most important herbs for male fertility helping to:

• Support normal sperm health.
• Encourage healthy hormonal balance.
• Promote healthy libido and circulation to the reproductive system.

Key Botanical Ingredients:
American Ginseng - A traditional rejuvenation tonic for men, American ginseng nourishes and supports the nervous system, sexual health, immune function, and proper hormonal balance.

Tribulus - Traditionally used in both traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, Tribulus supports normal sperm count, mobility and morphology.

Maca Root - A tonic for the hormonal system, maca supports and nourishes the hypothalamus. This encourages normal sperm health as well as libido.

Saw Palmetto - A nourishing herb to the entire endocrine system, saw palmetto supports overall reproductive function in men. Men with high stress, poor immune function, poor lifestyle and dietary habits have shown to respond well to this herb.

Yohimbe Bark - Found to increase circulation to the erectile tissues; aiding in physiological and psychogenic (mental) impotence.
Why Choose the Fertilica MH5?

• One-of-a-kind formula to help promote male fertility health.
• Liquid herbal extracts are instantly absorbed by the body.
• Formulated with organic ingredients.
• Formulated by Natural Fertility Specialist, Hethir Rodriguez.
• Contains NO sugar, salt, dairy, wheat, gluten, soy, preservatives, artificial colors or flavors.                  You can get any of these herbal formulations by sending an SMS to +2347031040178 or Email: ebogenius2@gmail.com. We ship anywhere in the world.

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When Is The Best Time To Work Out?

Morning, midday or midnight — when’s the best time to work out?

Well, that depends on when’s the best time for you.

“The best time of the day is when you will do it most consistently, because the benefits of physical activity are tightly linked to the amount you do on a consistent basis,” said Russell Pate, Ph.D., professor of exercise science in the Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina in Columbia.

• location,
• time of day,
• type of physical activity and
• social setting, among others.

“It’s not just what time, but what activity, with whom and where,” said Pate, who is also an American Heart Association volunteer. “This mix of factors for people come together to result in being consistent.”

“Different people will have different preferences and predispositions with regard to how they respond to exercise at different times of the day,” Pate said.

For example, if you’re much more likely to work out consistently with a partner, “then you’re better off to opt for a social part regardless of the time of day,” Pate said. “On the other hand, some people like the solitude, the chance to get away.”

You might have heard that the best time to work out is early in the morning — to get your metabolism revving or to avoid unexpected distractions during the day that could derail your regimen. “Are there differences in working out at different times of the day? Maybe. But those differences would be minor compared to the overall effect of doing it consistently,” Pate said.

“If you’re not a morning person, it does no good for you to try to get up at 5 in the morning to work out,” he said. “Try to stack as many cards on your side of the table as possible by doing what’s most likely to work for you. The converse is, don’t make it as hard as it doesn’t have to be.”

The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity. But what if you’re tight on time? Then, be creative and break up your activity into daily bouts of 3-10-minute increments.

For example:

• In the morning, park 10 minutes away from the job and walk briskly.
• At lunch, walk 10 minutes in or around where you work.
• In the afternoon/evening, walk briskly 10 minutes back to your vehicle.

 In African cities, especially Nigerian, people are engaged for the most part of the day and thus do not have an ideal time for exercising. However, most people who can afford it visit the gym during weekends.

 “Accumulation across the day doesn’t have to be performed in one bout, but can be across the day,” Pate said. “More is better, but we’re absolutely certain even modest amounts are much better than being sedentary.” And remember, “exercise” is any kind of physical activity that gets your heart rate up for at least 10 minutes at a time.

So get moving — at the time that’s right for you!

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Taking Care Of Your Kidneys In Natural Way

The kidneys are responsible for so many important functions, including filtering toxins from your blood.

Here’s a remarkable fact: Every 30 minutes, all the blood in your body travels through the kidneys. Every single day – thanks to your kidneys – more than two quarts of waste are cleared from your bloodstream and removed from the body as urine. Without this vital kidney function, waste would accumulate and serious damage to the organs throughout your body would occur.
Kidneys also:

• Oversee distribution of important minerals.
• Regulate the body’s acid-alkaline balance to keep you from becoming too acidic.
• Manage the body’s fluid levels.
• Release three essential hormones involved in blood pressure, bone building, and maintaining healthy red blood cells, among their other duties.

We live in a world filled with chemicals, toxins, and corrosive materials, things that overload our kidneys and force them to work harder than they should. In addition, dehydration remains a problem for the majority of people. If you’re not taking advantage of  detoxification suggestions and drinking plenty of fresh, filtered water every day, you could be putting your own kidneys at risk.

Here are the symptoms of possible kidney problems:

• Back pain, especially when it’s sudden and intense
• An urgent need to urinate
• Fatigue
• Swollen legs, hands, feet, or ankles
• Blood in the urine or difficulty urinating
• Bloating
• Puffy eyes
• Ridges in fingernails
• Skin problems
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Metallic taste in the mouth

Infections and kidney stones are two of the most common kidney problems. Generally, infections are due to the bacteria E. coli gaining access to the urinary tract where they can connect with the kidneys.

Technically, kidney infection is a form of urinary tract infection (UTI) and is treated with antibiotics.
Kidney stones, on the other hand, are solid, chemical deposits that form inside the kidney. Dehydration is one of the most common causes of kidney stones. A kidney stone can be nearly invisible to the naked eye, as large as a marble, or even bigger.

Tiny kidney stones pass out of the body in the urine, so you’re never aware of those. Larger kidney stones, however, can become lodged in the ureter, a thin tube connecting the kidneys and the bladder. When they become stuck, these stones can cause severe pain in the side or back, blood in the urine, and difficulty urinating. It can take days or even weeks for a kidney stone to pass on its own, so if you’re experiencing kidney stone symptoms, see a health care professional as soon as possible.

In addition, there are three types of serious kidney disease – acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, and end stage renal disease. (Note: The word “renal” is simply a medical term for kidneys.)

Acute renal failure (ARF) could be due to an injury or ingesting toxic substances. ARF generally responds well to treatment, especially if the kidneys are not severely damaged.

When kidneys gradually lose the ability to function, it is typically due to chronic kidney disease or CKD, the most common type of kidney ailment. Often, there are no symptoms of CKD until the condition has advanced. Then patients could experience numbness and/or swelling in the hands and feet, frequent urination, nausea, anemia, and poor appetite.

Finally, end stage renal disease (ESRD) is a serious condition in which there is no or very little kidney function remaining, and the damage to the kidney is permanent. At this point, a patient is looking at daily dialysis sessions or a kidney transplant.

Kidney cancer, while not common, does seem to be increasing. In the early stages, there are few symptoms. As the cancer advances, symptoms may include blood in the urine, fever that comes and goes, fatigue, back pain, and weight loss. Kidney cancer can be treated with surgery, radiation, and assorted drugs, depending on its location, size, type, and the overall health of the patient.

Ten Steps To Keeping Kidneys Healthy

Now that we’ve looked at the bad news, you’ll be happy to hear that there’s a good side here, too, and it is this: For the most part, the conditions that lead to kidney compromise are avoidable.

Start by asking your health-care professional for blood panel readings of three key measures of kidney health – the BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and creatinine levels and your EGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) numbers.

The BUN test results measure kidney and liver functions. The healthy range is considered 10 to 20 mg/dL; anything higher may indicate kidney problems.

Similarly, the BUN/creatinine ratio tells your doctor if your kidneys are eliminating waste efficiently. If creatinine levels are elevated, there could be a problem with the kidneys. A healthy BUN/creatinine ratio is between 10:1 and 20:1, although men and older people can be higher and still be healthy.

The EGFR test looks for signs of kidney damage. This is an especially useful test for patients with diabetes and/or high blood pressure, both of which can cause kidney problems. Reading the test scores correctly is very important, though. It’s perfectly normal, for example, for a 16-year-old to have an eGFR of 300 ml/min, while a 60-year-old may score 100 ml/min – yet in both cases the kidneys are fine. A score lower than 60 ml/min, however, indicates that kidney function is impaired.

Scores from these tests tell you how strong your kidneys are now, and there are other kidney function tests available. Unfortunately, as many as half of all people with kidney problems don’t know they are at risk. Knowing your numbers can help you stay on top of the situation so you can alter any behavior that may be harmful.

Here are additional steps that can help keep kidneys healthy:

1) Hydrate

Staying thoroughly hydrated is the most important thing you can do to prevent kidney stones and keep kidneys strong. Water dilutes the urine, and that prevents minerals and salts from clustering together and forming stones. I often recommend that patients who are at risk for kidney stones start the day by drinking fresh lemon juice in a glass of room temperature water.

2) Probiotics

Make certain you have healthy populations of friendly bacteria known as probiotics in your intestines. Studies have shown that these microorganisms are linked to better overall and digestive health, as well as a long list of other benefits. One of those involves assisting kidneys in processing waste materials, as well as reducing the likelihood of developing kidney stones.
A recent clinical trial involving patients with chronic kidney disease found that the group taking probiotics improved kidney function test scores as well as overall quality of life.

3) Eat Less Meat

Go easy on animal protein. Kidney stones are most common in populations that consume a great deal of meat. I suggest aiming for less than 65 grams of animal protein per day, which is just a little more than two ounces.

4) Avoid Phosphorous

Watch your phosphorous intake. You rarely hear about the mineral phosphorous, probably because deficiencies are so rare, especially for anyone eating the Standard American Diet (SAD). And that’s why phosphorous is becoming a problem, particularly for kidneys.
The mineral is found in most foods, but carbonated soft drinks and prepared, processed foods are especially high in phosphorus. You only need 800 mg to 1,200 mg of phosphorus each day; higher amounts are flushed from the body by healthy kidneys.
When kidneys don’t work well, phosphorus accumulates in the body, causing potentially serious conditions, such as bone and heart disorders, as well as calcification (hardening) of tissues. The easiest way to make sure you’re not getting too much phosphorus is to eat a nutritious, whole foods diet and totally avoid any fast and convenience foods.

5) Quit Smoking

Smoking hurts the kidneys, so if that is one of your vices you have to stop.

6) Drink Juice

One of the best ways to support good kidney health is with daily juicing. My favorite is to juice one entire bunch of cilantro or parsley, two herbs that are kidney friendly and help remove heavy metals from the body, mixed with water, lemon juice, and raw, organic honey to taste. If you have not discovered juicing yet, you can also use a greens product that provides a healthy serving of these essential nutrients.

7) Eat These Foods

Stock-up on kidney-supportive foods, including watermelon, berries (cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries), peppers, apples, garlic, onions, cabbage, cauliflower, and olive oil. While you’re at it, please review my earlier recommendations for healthy eating and reducing inflammation, because those suggestions benefit kidneys, too.

8) Lose Some Weight

If you’re carrying around extra pounds, do your kidneys a favor and shed a few pounds. Obesity has been linked to an increased likelihood of developing kidney cancer.

9) Ditch the Pain Relievers

Slash your risk of kidney cancer even further by minimizing your use of pain relievers, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin), naproxen (Aleve), and acetaminophen (Tylenol). Products like these are very hard on the kidneys. Even worse, researchers have found that these drugs increase the risk of developing kidney cancer.

10) Epsom Salt

Treat yourself to a detox bath in Epsom salts. Removing waste and toxins gives kidney a boost while improving your overall health.
Making the changes I’ve listed above will benefit your kidneys, along with your overall health. But, in addition, there are three significant threats that really require action on your part. If you’re suffering from high blood pressure, pre-diabetes, or diabetes, your kidneys could be suffering, too. These conditions can be improved with natural remedies and lifestyle changes, but those will require some commitment on your part. I hope you’ll agree that taking care of your kidneys is a worthwhile goal and make the necessary changes to protect these vital organs.

Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy, who authored this piece, combines her real-world hands-on patient experience and modern-day nutritional insights for dealing with common ailments such as blood pressure, blood sugar, heart health, joint pain, and many of today’s top health challenges.

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The Link Between Milk And Parkson Disease - Study

Heptachlor epoxide - a pesticide used until the 1980s and found in milk at that time - may be associated with signs of Parkinson’s disease in the brain, according to a study published in Neurology.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), heptachlor was used from the 1960-70s to kill termites found in the home, and by farmers to kill insects on farm crops, especially corn.

It was phased out from the 1970s, and by 1988, the commercial sale of heptachlor was banned in the US.

Its use is now restricted to controlling fire ants in power transformers.

There is little information available about the health effects on humans from heptachlor epoxide, but the EPA cites animal studies suggesting that long-term exposure can affect the liver and kidneys and cause tremors and convulsions. In rat models, it caused suspected fertility and developmental problems.

Parkinson’s disease is a slowly progressive disorder affecting movement, muscle control and balance. Cell death occurs in the brain, particularly in a cell mass known as the substantia nigra, which is involved in the control of movement and coordination.

Previous studies have found a link between dairy products and Parkinson’s, but this study focused specifically on milk and the signs of Parkinson’s in the brain.

R. D. Abbott, PhD, from the Shiga University of Medical Science in Otsu, Japan, and colleagues followed 449 Japanese-American men who were enrolled in the Honolulu-Asia Aging Study.

Participants, who had an average age of 54, were tracked for more than 30 years until they died.

Autopsies were then performed to find out whether they had lost brain cells in the substantia nigra area of the brain.

This loss is a feature of Parkinson’s disease and can start decades before the onset of symptoms.

Researchers also measured the amount of residue of heptachlor epoxide in 116 brains.

The chemical was found at very high levels in the milk supply in the early 1980s in Hawaii, where it was used in the pineapple industry to kill insects. It was removed from use in the US around that time. It may also be found in well water.

Heptachlor residue and brain cell loss co-occur

Residues of heptachlor epoxide were found in 90% of people who drank the most milk, compared with 63% of those who did not drink any milk.

Nonsmokers who drank more than two cups of milk per day had 40% fewer brain cells in that area of the brain than people who drank less than two cups of milk per day.

Among those who had smoked at some time, there was no association between milk intake and loss of brain cells, supporting previous studies suggesting that smokers have a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.

Limitations include a lack of evidence that the milk participants drank contained heptachlor epoxide. The study does not show that the pesticide or milk intake caused the disease; it only shows an association.

Dr. Honglei Chen, of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and a member of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN), added in a corresponding editorial: “There are several possible explanations for the association, including chance. Also, milk consumption was measured only once at the start of the study, and we have to assume that this measurement represented participant, dietary habits over time.”

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The Amazing Health Benefits Of Sugar Cane

Sugar cane is enjoyed all over the world mostly for their natural sweet taste. Sugar cane juice also known as ‘Ganne ka ras‘ in Hindi is not just another sweet juice, and contrary to popular belief, it’s one of the healthiest drinks out there and list of nutrients in it will definitely put a lot of natural and artificial energy drinks to shame.

When we see a sugarcane juice vendor along the side of the road, we just can’t control ourselves, can we? Obviously. It is simply delicious.

But what if we also told you that it is great not just for your taste buds but also for your health?

Sugarcane juice is rich in calcium, chromium, cobalt, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, potassium and zinc.  It also contains iron and vitamins A, C, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B6, along with high concentration of phytonutrients, antioxidants, proteins and soluble fiber. All these nutrients work together to keep your body in a good and healthy shape. Here are some other benefits of sugarcane juice.

1. The reason behind sugar cane being a popular drink during summers is because it gives an instant kick of energy and quenches the thirst. Sugar cane juice is good source of glucose which as we know, helps to re-hydrates the human body and gives it a boost of energy. So instead of your artificial energy drink, the next time you feel fatigued or dehydrated, consider drinking a glass of cane juice.

2. Even though cane juice tastes very sweet and has high sugar content, it is good for diabetic patients. It contains natural sugar which has low glycemic index that prevents steep rise in blood glucose levels in diabetics, so it can act as a substitute of aerated drinks for them. However people with Type-2 diabetes should consume it in moderation and after consultation with their doctors.

3. Sugarcane juice is considered an alkaline forming food because of the high concentration of calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and manganese in it.  Diseases like cancer cannot survive in an alkaline environment and that’s why studies show that it is effective in fighting against cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer.

4. As sugar cane juice boosts protein levels in the body, it helps in maintaining the health of the kidney. Taken in a diluted form, with lime juice and coconut water, sugar cane juice helps in reducing the burning sensation which is commonly associated with urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, kidney stones and prostatitis.

5. The antioxidants in sugarcane juice help to fight against infections and boost the immunity system of the body. It also protects the liver against infections and helps in keeping the bilirubin levels in control. This is the reason that doctors advice drinking sugar cane juice to jaundice patients, as it is one of the few things that get digested without too much pressure on the liver and also helps in reducing the bilirubin levels.

6. Sugar cane juice also acts a good digestive aid due to the presence of potassium. It helps in keeping the digestive system in good shape, prevents stomach infections and is considered to be particularly useful in treating the problem of constipation.

7. Studies show that sugarcane juice protects against tooth decay and bad breath due to its high mineral content. So save yourself the next trip to the dentist and drink a glass of fresh sugarcane juice to get shiny white teeth.

8. Deficiency of nutrients in the body can easily be noticed by looking at the health and condition of your nails. If you have brittle discolored nails that have white spots on them, then it’s time to add sugar cane juice in your diet. It contains everything to give you those strong shiny nails that would look pretty even without a nail polish.

9. Sugarcane juice has been discovered to be great for those people who are struggling with febrile disorders. Febrile disorders are accountable for resulting in fevers, which can lead to seizures and loss of protein in the body. It is quite common in infants and children. Sugar cane juice helps in compensating the lost protein and helps in recovery.

10. When it comes to healthy skin, alpha hydroxy acids are supposed to have a lot of benefits. They fight acne, reduce blemishes, prevent ageing and help in keeping the skin hydrated. One of the most effective alpha hydroxy acids is glycolic acid and sugarcane, is one of its few natural sources. Just apply sugar cane juice to your skin and let it dry or add it to your favourite face mask and scrub. Use it regularly to see the effect.

While the advantages of sugarcane juice are many, it is essential to ensure that it is extracted in a hygienic manner. It’s also important to use and consume the juice as soon as it is extracted because it tends to get oxidized within 15 minutes.

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Garlic: Nature's Infallable Defense Against Ailments

“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” Those are famous words from the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, often called the father of Western medicine.

He actually used to prescribe garlic to treat a variety of medical conditions.
Well, modern science has recently confirmed many of these beneficial health effects.

Garlic is a plant in the Allium (onion) family.
It is closely related to onions, shallots and leeks.
It grows in many parts of the world and is a popular ingredient in cooking due to its strong smell and delicious taste.

However, throughout ancient history, the main use of garlic was for its health and medicinal properties (1).
Its use was well documented by all the major civilizations… including the Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, Romans and the Chinese.

This is what garlic looks like:
The entire “head” is called a garlic bulb, while each segment is called a clove. There are about 10-20 cloves in a single bulb, give or take.
We now know that most of the health effects are caused by one of the sulfur compounds formed when a garlic clove is chopped, crushed or chewed.
This compound is known as allicin, and is also responsible for the distinct garlic smell.
Allicin enters the body from the digestive tract and travels all over the body, where it exerts its potent biological effects (which we’ll get to in a bit).

Calorie for calorie, garlic is incredibly nutritious.
A 1 ounce (28 grams) serving of garlic contains (3):

• Manganese: 23% of the RDA.
• Vitamin B6: 17% of the RDA.
• Vitamin C: 15% of the RDA.
• Selenium: 6% of the RDA.
• Fiber: 1 gram.
• Decent amounts of Calcium, Copper, Potassium, Phosphorus, Iron and Vitamin B1.

Garlic also contains trace amounts of various other nutrients. In fact, it contains a little bit of almost everything we need.
This is coming with 42 calories, with 1.8 grams of protein and 9 grams of carbs.

Garlic supplementation is known to boost the function of the immune system.
One large 12-week study found that a daily garlic supplement reduced the number of colds by 63% compared with placebo.
The average length of cold symptoms was also reduced by 70%, from 5 days in placebo to just 1.5 days in the garlic group.
Another study found that a high dose of garlic extract (2.56 grams per day) can reduce the number of days sick with cold or flu by 61%.
If you often get colds, then adding garlic to your diet could be incredibly helpful.

Cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes are the world’s biggest killers.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the most important drivers of these diseases.

Human studies have found garlic supplementation to have a significant impact on reducing blood pressure in people with high blood pressure.

In one study, aged garlic extract at doses of 600-1,500 mg was just as effective as the drug Atenolol at reducing blood pressure over a 24 week period.

Supplement doses must be fairly high to have these desired effects. The amount of allicin needed is equivalent to about four cloves of garlic per day.

Garlic can lower Total and LDL cholesterol.

For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15%.
Looking at LDL (the “bad”) and HDL (the “good”) cholesterol specifically, garlic appears to lower LDL but has no reliable effect on HDL .
Garlic does not appear to lower triglyceride levels, another known risk factor for heart disease.

Garlic contains antioxidants that support the body’s protective mechanisms against oxidative damage.
High doses of garlic supplementation have been shown to increase antioxidant enzymes in humans, as well as significantly reduce oxidative stress in those with high blood pressure..

The combined effects on reducing cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as the antioxidant properties, may help prevent common brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Effects on longevity are basically impossible to prove in humans.
But given the beneficial effects on important risk factors like blood pressure, it makes sense that garlic could help you live longer.

The fact that it can fight infectious disease is also an important factor, because these are common causes of death, especially in the elderly or people with dysfunctional immune systems.

Garlic was one of the earliest “performance enhancing” substances.
It was traditionally used in ancient cultures to reduce fatigue and enhance the work capacity of labourers.

Most notably, it was administered to Olympic athletes in ancient Greece.

Rodent studies have shown that garlic helps with exercise performance, but very few human studies have been done.

Subjects with heart disease that took garlic oil for 6 weeks had a reduction in peak heart rate of 12% and improved their exercise capacity.

However, a study on nine competitive cyclists found no performance benefits.
Other studies suggest that exercise-induced fatigue may be reduced with garlic.




At high doses, the sulfur compounds in garlic have been shown to protect against organ damage from heavy metal toxicity.

A four week study in employees of a car battery plant (excessive exposure to lead) found that garlic reduced lead levels in the blood by 19%. It also reduced many clinical signs of toxicity, including headaches and blood pressure.
Three doses of garlic each day even outperformed the drug D-penicillamine in symptom reduction.

No human trials have measured the effects of garlic on bone loss.
However, rodent studies have shown that it can minimise bone loss by increasing estrogen in females.

One study in menopausal women found that a daily dose of dry garlic extract (equal to 2 grams of raw garlic) significantly decreased a marker of estrogen deficiency.

This suggests that this garlic may have beneficial effects on bone health in women.
Foods like garlic and onions have also been shown to have beneficial effects on osteoarthritis.

The last one is not a health benefit, but still important.

It is the fact that it is very easy (and delicious) to include garlic in your current diet.

It complements most savory dishes, particularly soups and sauces. The strong taste of garlic can also add a punch to otherwise bland recipes.

Garlic comes in several forms, from whole cloves and smooth pastes to powders and supplements like garlic extract and garlic oil.

The minimum effective dose for therapeutic effects is one clove eaten with meals, two or three times a day.

However, keep in mind that there are some downsides to garlic, such as bad breath. There are also some people who are allergic to it.

If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood thinning medications, then talk to your doctor before increasing your garlic consumption.

The active compound allicin only forms when garlic is crushed or cleaved when it is raw. If you cook it before crushing it, then it won’t have the same health effects.

Therefore, the best way to consume garlic is raw, or to crush and cut it and leave it out for a while before you add it to your recipes.

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ADVERTORIAL: Have You Got Your Copy?

This edition of your ever juicy Star Weekly Extra! Is packed full with hot and seasoning stories.

 

Several pages of Nollywood, Comedy, Music, Star Gist, Fashion & Beauty, Starbrands, Star Auto… and lots more!

 

Ask you vendor for your copy now. The price has not changed: it’s still N200.

 

Can’t get SWE! On a news stand close to you?

That’s not a problem. You can get every edition of the magazine delivered on your door-step by taking a subscription package. You also stand to get great discounts ranging from 5%, 10% and 15% for the 13, 26 and 52 editions packages respectively.

 

The first 100 people to subscibe for the 52 editions package (between now and December 15) stand a chance to win our weekly Samsung Galaxy phone prize.

 

Subscibing is easy. Just call or SMS 07031040178 stating your name, the package you are subscribing to and where you would want the magazine to be delivered. Our marketers will be with you within 24hours.

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Sex Enhancing Capsules Dangerous To Health

The United States (U.S) Food and Drug Administration has warned about the dangers of using “Sex Drive Capsules,” a product promoted for sexual enhancement. To this end, the American regulators have advised that people should neither buy nor use ‘sex drive’ capsules. Loss of sex drive, which is also known as libido, is a common problem affecting up to one in five men – and even more women – at some point in their life.

It is often linked to professional and personal stress, or important lifechanging events, such as pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. However, an unexpected loss of libido –especially when it lasts for a long time or keeps returning – can also indicate an underlying personal, medical or lifestyle problem, which can be upsetting to both partners in a relationship.

The U.S FDA warning was issued after investigators found the product contains sildenafil, the active ingredient in the prescription drug Viagra, which is used to treat erectile dysfunction.

Sildenafil may interact with nitrates found in some prescription drugs such as nitroglycerin and may lower blood pressure to dangerous levels. Men with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease often take nitrates, the regulators say.

The undeclared ingredient was found during an investigation of international mail shipments prompted by the agency’s concern over the growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods manufactured with hidden drugs and chemicals. The FDA advised that people use caution when purchasing products that are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.”

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Sugar-Free Soda Drinks Are Also Harmful To The Teeth

Contrary to popular belief that it is only soda drinks (popularly called mineral in Nigeria and other African countries) that cause tooth problems, a new study suggests that even soda drinks that are sugar free are also harmful to teeth. Proper nutrition means eating a well-balanced diet so that your body can get the nutrients needed for good health and wellness. If your diet is low in the nutrients your body needs, your mouth may have a more difficult time resisting infection.

A poor diet can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Foods high in carbohydrates, sugars and starches greatly contribute to the production of plaque acids that attack the tooth enamel. Eventually these acids can cause tooth enamel to break down, forming a cavity.

Foods that contain sugars of any kind can contribute to tooth decay. Almost all foods, including milk and vegetables, contain some type of sugar; however; these foods are a necessary part of a healthy diet, because many of them also contain important nutrients. To help control the amount of sugar you consume, read food labels and choose foods and beverages that are low in added sugars.

Diet sodas, 100-percent citrus fruit juices and other sugar free drinks can be surprisingly bad for your teeth. Most people know that drinking sugary drinks can cause tooth decay, but another cause of cavities is the dental erosion that occurs when teeth are exposed to acid. Phosphoric acid, citric acid and tartaric acid are some of the ingredients in diet sodas and fruit juices that damage teeth, but you can reduce the effects of acidic drinks by taking these precautions.

Although they often contain no sugar, diet sodas usually cause about the same amount of dental erosion as regular sodas. Matthew M. Rodgers, DDS; and J. Anthony von Fraunhofer, PhD, FADM, FRSC, researchers at the University of Michigan, compared the eroding effects of regular sodas and diet sodas on teeth and found very little difference. For example, after 14 days of exposure to regular Coca Cola, 2.8 mg/cm² of tooth enamel had dissolved, and diet Coca Cola dissolved a little over 3 mg/cm² of tooth enamel in the same amount of time.

Exposure to citric juices has a similar effect on teeth. YanFang Ren, DDS, PhD, and other researchers at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health found that drinking orange juice decreased tooth enamel's hardness by 84 percent, and markedly increased its roughness. And, according to Tufts Now, the acid in lemon and lime juice is almost as corrosive as battery acid.

Sticking to beverages that are low in acid keep your teeth from wearing, ultimately protecting them from becoming sensitive. Matthew M. Rodgers and J. Anthony von Fraunhofer found that tap water and root beer had the least effect on teeth, followed by black tea and coffee. All of these beverages dissolved less that 0.4 mg/cm² of tooth enamel 14 days after exposure. Milk is another tooth-friendly drink; Tufts Now suggests drinking milk is safe because it helps saliva return to a neutral pH.

Sugar free drinks such as sodas, colas, sports drinks, pure orange juice and wine may cause dental erosion, but you can help protect your teeth. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a thorough toothpaste such as Colgate^® Cavity Protection helps limit the effect these beverages have on your teeth, but wait a while before brushing. According to Caries Research, cited in Tufts Now, it takes 30 minutes to an hour for saliva to return the mouth to a neutral pH, and brushing before this time can actually spread these acids.

The best time for drinking sugar free drinks is with meals, Rodgers and Fraunhofer explain, and continuously sipping outside of mealtimes is the worst way to indulge. Drink through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth, and chase the drink with plain milk or water. And although you shouldn't snack between meals so saliva can have time to neutralize the acid, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) advises that eating cheese is helpful because it helps do this itself.

Cutting down on your sugar intake might reduce your waistline and reduce bacteria, but isn't always good for your enamel. Acids are listed on drink ingredients, so check the label before you buy. Wising up about the effects of sugar free drinks can end up saving your teeth and your smile.

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What Sorts Of Foods Should People Living With HIV/AIDS Eat

If you have HIV, what sort of diet should you eat? If you're getting treatment and not having complications, the answer's simple: Eat the same healthy diet that everyone should be eating.

"We don’t have evidence that people do better with a specific HIV diet, or have special nutritional requirements just because they have HIV," says Christine A. Wanke, MD, director of the nutrition and infection unit at Tufts University School of Medicine.

But she says that while there's no specific HIV diet, sticking to a healthy eating plan is key, even if you're not having symptoms now. If you have HIV, a good diet will help you feel better, avoid complications, and stay healthy.

10 Guidelines to Follow

The general principles of healthy eating are simple:

1. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables (5 to 6 servings a day).
2. Favor whole grains, which provide fiber and healthy nutrients.
3. Choose lean proteins, such as fish, chicken, beans, legumes, and low-fat dairy.
4. Select healthier fats, in moderate servings, like olive oil and nuts.
5. Limit sugar, sweets, and saturated fats.
6. Skip trans fats totally.
7. Avoid fad diets. "We do see people who use fad diets," Wanke says. However, none has been tested or shown to have a benefit for people with HIV. Extreme diets that cut out whole food groups or advise taking huge doses of vitamins or supplements may be dangerous.
8. Eat for your general health, not just HIV. Don't focus only on a special immunity-boosting diet if it could hurt your all-around health. People with HIV may be at higher risk for heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis, and other conditions, but a good overall diet can help prevent them.
9. Keep it simple. The more complex a diet becomes, the more difficult it is to follow. Some people try to measure their intake of protein and fat down to the ounce. But unless there's a specific medical reason, most people don't need to worry about that level of detail, says Kimberly Dong, RD, a dietitian at Tufts University School of Medicine.
10. Get help if you have problems. A normal healthy diet is good for most people with HIV. But if you're having problems -- like a loss of appetite, nausea, or unwanted weight loss -- see your doctor. Don't try to deal with it on your own. Your doctor can help treat both the underlying problem and the symptoms.

One way to remember the eating guidelines is the U.S. government's "MyPlate" recommendation: Make half your plate vegetables and fruits, and split the other half between grains and protein.

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Take Care Of Your Heart, Have A Diet Of Cashew Nuts

Cashew is found almost everywhere in Nigeria, Africa and the world in general. Apart from the delicious fruit of the cashew, the nut is also a rich source of nutrients that the body needs to fight off diseases. The delicately flavored cashew nut is a favorite between meal snack that can be readily found in your local market year round. It also makes wonderful nut butter and a special addition to salads and stir-fry dishes.

Cashew nuts are actually the kidney-shaped seeds that adhere to the bottom of the cashew apple, the fruit of the cashew tree, which is native to the coastal areas of northeastern Brazil. Cashews are always sold shelled because the interior of the shells contains a caustic resin, known as cashew balm, which must be carefully removed before the nuts are fit for consumption. This caustic resin is actually used in industry to make varnishes and insecticides.

Not only do cashews have a lower fat content than most other nuts, approximately 82% of their fat is unsaturated fatty acids, plus about 66% of this unsaturated fatty acid content are heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, similar to those found in olive oil. Studies of diabetic patients show that monounsaturated fat, when added to a low-fat diet, can help to reduce high triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a form in which fats are carried in the blood, and high triglyceride levels are associated with an increased risk for heart disease, so ensuring you have some monounsaturated fats in your diet by enjoying cashews is a good idea, especially for persons with diabetes.

Research published in the British Journal of Nutrition (Blomhoff R, Carlsen MH), which identified several nuts among plant foods with the highest total antioxidant content, suggests nut's high antioxidant content may be key to their cardio-protective benefits.

Nuts' high antioxidant content helps explain results seen in the Iowa Women's Health Study in which risk of death from cardiovascular and coronary heart diseases showed strong and consistent reductions with increasing nut/peanut butter consumption. Total death rates decreased 11% and 19% for nut/peanut butter intake once per week and 1-4 times per week, respectively.

Even more impressive were the results of a review study of the evidence linking nuts and lower risk of coronary heart disease, also published in the British Journal of Nutrition. (Kelly JH, Sabate J.) In this study, researchers looked at four large prospective epidemiological studies—the Adventist Health Study, Iowa Women's Study, Nurses' Health Study and the Physician's Health Study. When evidence from all four studies was combined, subjects consuming nuts at least 4 times a week showed a 37% reduced risk of coronary heart disease compared to those who never or seldom ate nuts. Each additional serving of nuts per week was associated with an average 8.3% reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

Practical Tip: To lower your risk of cardiovascular and coronary heart disease, enjoy a handful of cashews or other nuts, or a tablespoon of nut butter, at least 4 times a week.

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Heart Burn Drugs Could Cause Death - Experts

Almost everyone has had heartburn. Sometimes, it happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Heartburn is a painful burning feeling in the chest or throat. If anyone experiences heartburn more than two times weekly, the person may have developed a more serious form of heartburn called GERD (Gastro esophegeal reflux) which is when the muscles at the end of the esophagus do not close tightly enough.

This allows contents of the stomach to back up or reflux which can damage the esophagus. GERD is a common chronic relapsing condition that is associated with a significant morbidity and can cause death from complications if not treated.

Many patients self-diagnose and self-treat and do not seek medical attention. Some of the risk factors may include certain medications, tobacco use, pregnancy, very hot spicy food. Other risk factors include drinking alcohol and consumption of fatty or acidic food.

Some of the classic symptoms may be chronic cough, hoarse voice, belching, bloating, wheezing mouth odour, and some signs might be yellow discoloration of the teeth from too much acid and recurrent sore throat.

Others are acid regurgitation provoked by lying flat on the back or leaning forward, and regurgitation of digested food or clear burning fluid. Undigested food regurgitation is not acid reflux.

There is no clear cut way to diagnose GERD but checking the acid content in your mouth over a 24 hour with a probe will help. Red flags that complications are developing include difficulty swallowing, weight loss, early fullness when eating and vomiting.

Complications could include persistent chest pain especially after eating, cough that will not go away even with cough medication, developing asthma and laryngeal cancer.

Drink eight ounce of water (1250ml), non-caffeinated fluid every day, decrease or eliminate caffeine, spicy food and milk products towards the end of the day. Also, avoid chocolate as well as fatty foods. Stop smoking; stop eating two to three hours before bedtime. Sit upright 45 minutes to one hour after meals.

Some people have resorted to self medication in the treatment of heart burns with dire consequences. Experts believe that over the counter medication could cause serious havoc for those suffering from heart burns and could lead to death. 

 

For effective natural cure for heart burns, call Dr E.E Humphrey, CEO, Save Soul Natural Clinic on +2348069223334, +2349092770089.

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How Loneliness Affects Longevity

Being lonely can trigger cellular changes in your body that increase your chances of getting ill and not living as long as you could have, according to a new study. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, identified loneliness as a major health problem that could reduce quality of life among affected persons.

This is not the first time research would link loneliness with poor health.

The risk applies to older people, past research has suggested. A leading charity for people over 60 in the United Kingdom (UK) said the findings in the new study underline the importance of treating loneliness as a major health problem.

In the new study, researchers from the University of Chicago and the University of California found that loneliness can trigger the body’s fightor- flight response, which can affect the production of white blood cells and eventually undermine the immune system.

They based their research on 141 older people enrolled in a United States (U.S) study on ageing and social relations, and on an examination of lonely rhesus macaque monkeys, a highly social species of primates. Loneliness is a feeling of being cut off, disconnected, and/or alienated from other people, so that it feels difficult or even impossible to have any form of meaningful human contact. Lonely people often feel empty or hollow inside.

Loneliness typically includes anxious feelings about a lack of connectedness or communality with other beings, both in the present and extending into the future.

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Walnut: Packed Full With Life Saving Nutrients

Oftentimes, the simplest foods are best for your health, and this is certainly the case for nuts, in which Mother Nature has crafted a nearly perfect package of protein, healthy fats, fiber, plant sterols, antioxidants, and many vitamins and minerals.

Among nuts, the case may be made that walnuts are king, as research shows they may boost your health in a number of ways at very easy-to-achieve "doses."

Eating just one ounce of walnuts a day (that's about seven shelled walnuts) may be all it takes to take advantage of their beneficial properties.

Walnuts belong to the tree nut family, along with Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, and pistachios. Each has its own unique nutritional profile.

One-quarter cup of walnuts, for instance, provides more than 100 percent of the daily recommended value of plant-based omega-3 fats, along with high amounts of copper, manganese, molybdenum, and biotin. Some of the most exciting research about walnuts includes:

Cancer-Fighting Properties
Walnuts may help reduce not only the risk of prostate cancer, but breast cancer as well. In one study, mice that ate the human equivalent of 2.4 ounces of whole walnuts for 18 weeks had significantly smaller and slower-growing prostate tumors compared to the control group that consumed the same amount of fat but from other sources. 

Overall the whole walnut diet reduced prostate cancer growth by 30 to 40 percent. According to another study on mice, the human equivalent of just two handfuls of walnuts a day cut breast cancer risk in half, and slowed tumor growth by 50 percent as well.¹

Heart Health
Walnuts contain the amino acid l-arginine, which offers multiple vascular benefits to people with heart disease, or those who have increased risk for heart disease due to multiple cardiac risk factors. 

If you struggle with herpes, you may want to avoid or limit walnuts, as high levels of arginine can deplete the amino acid lysine, which can trigger herpes recurrences. 

Walnuts also contain the plant-based omega-3 fat alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is anti-inflammatory and may prevent the formation of pathological blood clots. Research shows that people who eat a diet high in ALA are less likely to have a fatal heart attack and have a nearly 50 percent lower risk of sudden cardiac death.

Eating just four walnuts a day has been shown to significantly raise blood levels of heart-healthy ALA, and walnut consumption supports healthful cholesterol levels.  

Separate research showed that eating just one ounce of walnuts a day may decrease cardiovascular risk, and among those at high cardiovascular risk, increased frequency of nut consumption significantly lowers the risk of death.

Rare and Powerful Antioxidants
Antioxidants are crucial to your health, as they are believed to help control how fast you age by combating free radicals, which are at the heart of age-related deterioration. 

Walnuts contain several unique and powerful antioxidants that are available in only a few commonly eaten foods. This includes the quinone juglone, the tannin tellimagrandin, and the flavonol morin.⁶ 

Walnuts contain antioxidants that are so powerful at free-radical scavenging that researchers called them "remarkable,"⁷ and research has shown that walnut polyphenols may help prevent chemically-induced liver damage.⁸  

In another study, researchers found that nuts, especially walnuts, have potent antioxidant powers. Walnut polyphenols had the best efficacy among the nuts tested and also the highest lipoprotein-bound antioxidant activity. The researchers concluded:⁹ 

"Nuts are high in polyphenol antioxidants which by binding to lipoproteins would inhibit oxidative processes that lead to atherosclerosis in vivo. In human supplementation studies nuts have been shown to improve the lipid profile, increase endothelial function and reduce inflammation, all without causing weight gain."

Weight Control

Adding healthful amounts of nuts such as walnuts to your diet can help you to maintain your ideal weight over time. In one review of 31 trials, those whose diets included extra nuts or nuts substituted for other foods lost about 1.4 extra pounds and half an inch from their waists.¹⁰ Eating walnuts is also associated with increased satiety after just three days.¹¹

Improved Reproductive Health in Men
One of the lesser-known benefits of walnuts is their impact on male fertility. Among men who consume a Western-style diet, adding 75 grams (a bit over one-half cup) of walnuts daily significantly improved sperm quality, including vitality, motility, and morphology.¹²

Brain Health
Walnuts contain a number of neuroprotective compounds, including vitamin E, folate, melatonin, omega-3 fats, and antioxidants. Research shows walnut consumption may support brain health, including increasing inferential reasoning in young adults.

One study also found that consuming high-antioxidant foods like walnuts "can decrease the enhanced vulnerability to oxidative stress that occurs in aging," "increase health span," and also "enhance cognitive and motor function in aging."¹⁴

Diabetes
The beneficial dietary fat in walnuts has been shown to improve metabolic parameters in people with type 2 diabetes. Overweight adults with type 2 diabetes who ate one-quarter cup of walnuts daily had significant reductions in fasting insulin levels compared to those who did not, and the benefit was achieved in the first three months.

The outermost layer of a shelled walnut – the whitish, flaky (or sometimes waxy) part – has a bitter flavor, but resist the urge to remove it. It's thought that up to 90 percent of the antioxidants in walnuts are found in the skin, making it one of the healthiest parts to consume.¹⁶ To increase the positive impacts on your health, look for nuts that are organic and raw, not irradiated or pasteurized.

Furthermore, be aware that walnuts are highly perishable and their healthful fats easily damaged. If you're purchasing shelled walnuts in bulk, avoid those that appear shriveled or smell rancid, or that you cannot verify are fresh. Walnuts should be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator or freezer, whether they are shelled or unshelled. Walnuts are great as a quick snack, but if you're not a fan of their flavor, you can still get their therapeutic benefits by blending them into smoothies. Or you can try one of the other healthful nuts available.

You can further improve the quality of walnuts by soaking them in water overnight, which will tend to lower some of the enzyme inhibitors and phytic acid. After soaking, you can dehydrate them at low temperature of around 105 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit until they are crispy again, as they are far more palatable when they are crunchy.

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Prevent Cancer, Heart Disease And Others With Cucumber

Cucumbers belong to the same plant family as squash, pumpkin, and watermelon (the Cucurbitaceae family). Like watermelon, cucumbers are made up of mostly (95 percent) water, which means eating them on a hot day can help you stay hydrated.

However, there's reason to eat cucumbers all year long. With vitamin K, B vitamins, copper, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese, cucumbers can help you to avoid nutrient deficiencies that are widespread among those eating a typical diet.

Plus, cucumbers contain unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and much, much more.

Protect Your Brain
Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play an important role in brain health. In addition to improving your memory and protecting your nerve cells from age-related decline ^, fisetin has been found to prevent progressive memory and learning impairments in mice with Alzheimer's disease.

Reduce Your Risk of Cancer
Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol), which may help to lower your risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers.They also contain phytonutrients called cucurbitacins, which also have anti-cancer properties. According to the George Mateljan Foundation:

"Scientists have already determined that several different signaling pathways (for example, the JAK-STAT and MAPK pathways) required for cancer cell development and survival can be blocked by activity of cucurbitacins."

Fight Inflammation
Cucumbers may help to "cool" the inflammatory response in your body, and animal studies suggest that cucumber extract helps reduce unwanted inflammation, in part by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes (including cyclo-oxygenase 2, or COX-2).

Antioxidant Properties
Cucumbers contain numerous antioxidants, including the well-known vitamin C and beta-carotene. They also contain antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol, which provide additional benefits.

For instance, quercetin is an antioxidant that many believe prevents histamine release—making quercetin-rich foods "natural antihistamines." Kaempferol, meanwhile, may help fight cancer and lower your risk of chronic diseases including heart disease.

Freshen Your Breath
Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid your mouth of odor-causing bacteria. According to the principles of Ayurveda, eating cucumbers may also help to release excess heat in your stomach, which is said to be a primary cause of bad breath.

Manage Stress
Cucumbers contain multiple B vitamins, including vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7 (biotin). B vitamins are known to help ease feelings of anxiety and buffer some of the damaging effects of stress.

Support Your Digestive Health
Cucumbers are rich in two of the most basic elements needed for healthy digestion: water and fiber. If you struggle with acid reflux, you should know that drinking water can help suppress acute symptoms of acid reflux by temporarily raising stomach pH; it's possible that water-rich cucumbers may have a similar effect.

Cucumber skins contain insoluble fiber, which helps add bulk to your stool. This helps food to move through your digestive tract more quickly for healthy elimination.

Maintain a Healthy Weight
Cucumbers are very low in calories, yet they make a filling snack (one cup of sliced cucumber contains just 16 calories). The soluble fiber in cucumbers dissolves into a gel-like texture in your gut, helping to slow down your digestion. This helps you to feel full longer and is one reason why fiber-rich foods may help with weight control.

Support Heart Health
Cucumbers contain potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure levels. A proper balance of potassium both inside and outside your cells is crucial for your body to function properly.

As an electrolyte, potassium is a positive charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration (about 30 times higher inside than outside your cells) in order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function.

          Dr Mercola, who authored this piece, is an expert nutritionist.

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