Immune / Lymphatic
Blood biomarkers such as high triglycerides, high low-density lipoprotein (LDL)/high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratios, high ferritin, high homocysteine, and low alpha-tocopherol levels have been linked to hypertension and cardiovascular disease (CVD) states. Furthermore, such blood markers are also quite common within blood chemistry panels. As a means of appreciating said markers and their relationship to high…
The origin of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains largely unelucidated, although multiple factors are involved inducing to an array of intestinal and extra-intestinal consequences, to include nutrient maldigestion/malabsorption.1 As such, it is imperative to identify and control underlying drivers of IBD in addition to managing symptoms of the same. One solution, as part of…
Sleep quality/duration and nutrition are cornerstones of health and overall quality of life. Sleep is a vital, yet often, underappreciated component of homeostasis and in many westernized nations individuals tend to experience less hours of sleep per night.1 Sleep restriction of seven hours or less has been associated with longer work schedules and greater time…
The World Health Organization has indicated that there is an excess of 340 million obese/overweight children, worldwide.1 Such an occurrence, left unchecked, will negatively affect the current health, future health, and life expectancy of children.1(2015) Furthermore, such aberrations in health and homeostasis will develop through increased obesity, elevated systemic low-grade chronic inflammation (LGCI), and increased…
Food-as-medicine is a paradigm and model used in the restoration of health and prevention of disease. Considering that research has implicated poor dietary habits (i.e., excess consumption of ultra-processed foods, alcohol, and vegetable oils) to the advent and progression of metabolic syndrome and other diseases, it is imperative that solutions are employed to mitigate…
Vitamin D3 (VD) is largely known as a key nutrient in controlling metabolic bone disease. However, VD’s role in immune-modulating and anti-inflammatory capabilities has become increasingly recognized.1Interestingly, many tissues and cells, to include the immune system, contain vitamin D receptors (VDRs), indicating an intimate relationship between said nutrient and cell function.1(49) However, large portions of humans…
Cancer is a leading cause of disease and mortality accounting for more than 8.8 million deaths in 2015, worldwide.1 Gliomas, an often-malignant type of brain cancer, are a frequently diagnosed form of tumor with an estimated 23,800 new cases identified for 2017.1(136) As such, it is imperative to develop interventions that manage and/or prevent the…
Avocado is a fruit known as Persea americana, which contains a large concentration of minerals (phosphorous/magnesium/potassium) and lipids.1 The avocado tree finds its origins in tropical and/or subtropical climates with the largest producing countries including Dominican Republic, Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and Indonesia.1(381) Furthermore, the avocado industry is predicted to rise at a compound annual growth…
Special diets for special needs acknowledge the concept of bio-individuality, and the preference to mold food choices based on the signs, symptoms, goals, and health outcomes of each individual. One diet of particular interest is that of Mediterranean origin, otherwise known as the Mediterranean diet (MD). Such a method of eating is characterized by generous…
Depression is a condition that affects more that 4.4% of the population, or 322 million individuals, globally.1 Furthermore, associations between chronic inflammation and a range of neurological diseases, to include depression, have been established. Finally, research has elucidated particular dietary approaches and nutrients which modulate inflammatory factors and events, inducing a range of anti-inflammatory properties.1(2045)…