Arthritis is a set of degenerative conditions characterized by pain, stiffness and inflammation. Doctors traditionally treat it with pain and anti-inflammatory medications, which usually produce side effects. Natural approaches are becoming more popular as alternative or complementary remedies, which provide solutions without the side effects. It is important to keep up with your medical treatment and consult with your health care practitioner before trying any natural alternative. Learn more »
- English
Arthritis is a set of degenerative conditions characterized by pain, stiffness and inflammation. Doctors traditionally treat it with pain and anti-inflammatory medications, which usually produce side effects. Natural approaches are becoming more popular as alternative or complementary remedies, which provide solutions without the side effects. It is important to keep up with your medical treatment and consult with your health care practitioner before trying any natural alternative. Learn more »
Sesame seeds are tiny, flat oval shaped seeds with a nutty taste and a subtle crunch. They come in different colors, including white, yellow, black and brown. They are used in bagels, breads, cookies, salads, and snacks and are commonly incorporated in many Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. Sesame oil and tahini (sesame paste) are examples of other uses of sesame seed. They can be consumed raw, dried or roasted. Learn more »
Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits help promote health and treat disease, from inhibiting blood clot formation to enhancing immune response. Higher vitamin E intake has been associated with lower incidence of heart disease, cell protection against free radicals, and potential prevention of age-related macular degeneration and cognitive decline. It also balances hormones, promotes good circulation, repairs damaged skin, stimulates hair growth and helps alleviate fatigue. Learn more »
A joint is where two bones meet in the body. Joint pain can be a result of injury or disease of the joint or surrounding tissues. Commonly affected pain areas include neck, back, hands, jaw, knees, ankles, hips and shoulders. Pain is also related to inflammation (arthritis), which is accompanied by local warmth, swelling, and tenderness. Depending on the nature and cause of pain, medications and even surgery may be required as part of the medical treatment. Learn more »
Neuropathy can affect motor nerves (movement and balance), sensory nerves (pain, sensations, numbness) and autonomic nerves (for example, digestive organs, cardiovascular systems). Depending on the nature of neuropathy, some people do not find enough relief from traditional treatments such as medication alone. Learn more »
The feet are a complex structure with 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments designed to support the body. Injuries, excess weight, inactivity, overactivity, uncomfortable footwear, imbalances, old age, nutritional deficiencies and inflammation can compromise the health of your feet and lead to fatigue, swelling, pain, inflammation and other symptoms. Learn more »
In order to maintain optimal health, the pH level of the blood should range between 7.35 and 7.45. If your blood pH is reduced to less than 7.35, it falls into acidosis. Humans need to consume both alkaline and acidic foods to maintain a proper balance, with a higher concentration of alkaline foods if the body is acidic, a common condition due to typical diets consumed in the Western world. Learn more »
We know the secrets to longevity and wellbeing: exercise, no smoking, less stress, enough sleep, active lifestyle, work-life balance, healthy diet, low sugar, correct posture, proper breathing, mindfulness, and a positive mindset. Finding purpose, feeling gratitude and being of service to others also enhance the quality and meaning of life. Learn more »
There are different types of fat, some representing unhealthy choices in our diets, such as trans fats, and good fats like omega-3s. Eating low fat diets can lead to higher sugar and carb consumption, which contributes to insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes and other health complications. Learn more »
Is stress killing you? The following information provides some perspectives on the nature of stress and its risk factors to health, longevity and quality of life. Stress is an individual experience. It is dependent on your ability to relax and manage your thoughts and emotions. The importance of minimizing stress cannot be stressed enough. Learn more »
Since diet determines pH balance, identifying where specific foods fall within the pH scale can help plan and balance a healthy diet. Knowing that vegetables and fruits are of alkaline nature, juicing or consuming raw fruits and vegetables can be a quick way to ensure an alkaline diet if there is an acidic imbalance, which is a common condition. Learn more »
A diet plenty of fruits and vegetables, and other nutritional sources, combined with proper sleep, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle facilitate the natural detoxification executed by the organs and their optimal function. Learn more »
A healthy skin reflects a healthy body. A radiant and glowing skin can be cultivated from its foundation: the food you eat and a detoxified body. What you feed your body, also nourishes your face. It is, therefore, important to pay attention to the foods you eat that can help heal, protect, rejuvenate and beautify your skin and the steps you can take to enjoy a firmer, younger and smoother skin. Read More »
Lemon water is a refreshing and invigorating drink any time of the year. The smell and taste of lemon is enjoyed by many and those who consume it regularly report a variety of benefits, from weight management to digestive support. It provides a great alternative to sugary drinks and as a detoxifying drink, it can help cleanse the system and boost energy. Learn more »
Maintaining a strong heart depends on a healthy lifestyle in order to protect and promote cardiovascular function. Nutrition is a critical component as it provides nutrients that help strengthen and cleanse arteries. These detox foods are known to reduce inflammation and provide antioxidants that support cardiovascular health. Read more »
Access to fresh produce, clean water, advanced medicine, technological innovations and economic progress give us a unique opportunity in history to live a vibrant and healthy life. However, we are also exposed to a wide range of environmental pollutants, pharmaceutical drugs, processed foods, heavy metals, stress, smoke and other toxic chemicals, including those produced internally by the body. Read more »
The process of oxidative stress in the body takes place when there is chronic high stress, the immune system is compromised, we consume too much sugar as the source of energy in the body, there is presence of systemic inflammation, and the liver and kidneys are overwhelmed with detoxification of environmental pollutants, toxic chemicals, pesticides, food preservatives and other toxins in the body. Read more »
The term oxidative stress is commonly linked to inflammation, free radicals and chronic disease. Oxidation is the process by which our bodies metabolize the oxygen that we breathe and by which cells produce energy, resulting in a loss of electrons during a reaction by a molecule, atom or ion. Oxidation refers to gain of oxygen. Learn more here »
The word stress tends to be associated with a negative connotation, as something bad for your health or an unwanted component of life. For many, it is viewed as a necessary and unavoidable consequence of a busy life. In reality, stress is neither good nor bad. It is not an inevitable part of life for all. Stress is generally defined as a psychological and/or physiological reaction to a perceived threat. Read More »
Juice fasting, by giving the body some rest from overeating, unhealthy food and toxins, enables the digestive system energies to be redirected elsewhere where functions have been disrupted or impacted, thus generating an internal cleansing effect. . Without the processed foods, saturated fats, refined carbohydrates, caffeine, alcohol and other toxic consumption, the body initiates a self-cleansing process. Read more »
Inflammation controls our lives and determines our health. As a top public health concern, the following facts offer some information on its nature and dangers.
1. Persistent chronic low-grade inflammation can kill you slowly over time.
2. You may feel a sense of good health and experience a silent chronic low-grade inflammation at the same time (…) Read more »
In a world where psychological stress is ever present and long lasting, the frequency and duration of inflammation have increased and become more persistent, resulting in greater medical risks. Constant stress is linked to chronic inflammation at the cellular level and DNA damage, which can lead to serious health consequences, such as higher risk of cancer, accelerated aging and psychiatric disorders like depression and anxiety. With chronic stress, quality of life and wellbeing are obliterated.
Learn more »
Chronic inflammation, associated with poor eating habits, lack of physical exercise, stress, chemical and environmental factors, is a self-perpetuating condition potentially leading to serious diseases.
Eating healthy can help fight inflammation by providing the body with the necessary nourishment, nutrients and ingredients to support energy production, health and wellbeing. Foods to avoid include any processed foods, canned food, refined sugars, trans fats, gluten, simple carbs, caffeine and lard.
Learn more »
A constant psychological, emotional or physical stress raises the level of cortisol, an essential multiple purpose hormone, affecting the body’s ability to regulate its natural inflammatory responses. While producing cortisol is a common biological necessity and helps stay motivated and responsive to our environment, abnormally high cortisol levels in the system can become a serious health risk and lead to chronic diseases.
Learn more here »
Inflammation is the body’s natural and necessary response to any harmful stimuli and is an important component of the immune system. It is what enables our body to respond to injury, infection or illness. However, the chronic and systemic inflammation generated by today’s lifestyle choices and factors is the root of age-related chronic diseases.
Are You Accelerating Aging? Learn more about inflammaging here »
Symptoms are a way for the body to give some clues that there is an internal problem. Chronic inflammation is a silent killer and, as such, it is possible to be suffering from inflammatory conditions for a long time without noticing any symptoms. Chronic inflammation can lead to a serious vicious cycle perpetuating the inflammatory response.
Learn more about some of the most common symptoms of chronic inflammation here »
Inflammation is an essential and complex biological response against harmful stimuli. It is an intelligent process used by the body to address a perceived problem, such as an injury or flu.
Inflammation enables the body to protect itself against infection from foreign organisms, such as bacteria and viruses. Read more about what is inflammation and why you should know »
How you sleep can affect how you feel when you wake up and your overall health. Posture, breathing patterns, body tension and other health issues or factors will determine both the quality and duration of sleep. A poor posture can cause neck and back pain, tense shoulders, stiff muscles, fatigue, digestive issues, poor circulation, headaches, and other symptoms that can interfere with your sleep.
If you have certain ailments or pain, some sleep positions may alleviate symptoms or, at least, provide a more comfortable way to fall asleep and have a restful night. Other positions have been recommended to avoid negative effects in the body and promote better health. Read More »
Common pain types include migraines, arthritis, lower back pain, sciatica, neuropathic pain, herniated disc, muscular pain, cancer pain, post-surgical pain, shoulder pain, tooth aches, etc. Finding the right approach or a combination of therapies varies per person and it should take the individual as a whole, not just the localized area of pain. Coping mechanisms might also involve a combination of physical and psychological factors, like addressing a recurring tension headache.
Severity and nature of pain, as well as safety factors should determine when to seek medical help, drug treatments or even emergency help. In a variety of many other situations, individuals find relief in a series or combinations of alternative approaches. Learn More »
The human detoxification process is a complex and sophisticated mechanism. The detox systems involved are the liver, kidneys, lymph, skin, intestines and lungs. The body’s functions either neutralize or eliminate toxins. If toxins are not expelled out of the body, they stay in the body, usually in fat cells, tissues and bone. Here are some interesting facts relating to the detoxification process »
Toxins impact our immune system and are linked to many chronic diseases, from candida to cancer. Healthy lifestyle and detoxification programs can help combat these negative effects. Another approach is to minimize or remove the sources of toxicity. Here are 10 Simple Ways to Avoid Exposure to Toxins »
There are many techniques, treatments and types of detoxification that can be used for cleansing the body. Depending on what body system or organ is targeted, different foods can be incorporated in your diet. Here are top 12 detox foods that can help any diet »
Whether you eat a very healthy diet everyday, exercise and follow detox programs regularly, it is still important to incorporate daily steps to counteract any indulgences on any potential unhealthy food and environmental exposure to toxins that are outside our control. Daily detox maintenance is also a good way to supplement other major cleanses. Daily detox steps will help combat toxicity levels and make you feel good. Once they are built into a regular routine, they can be part of your healthy habits Read more »
Aging is commonly associated with memory changes, forgetfulness, brain fog and Alzheimer’s. Small memory lapses are considered normal and part of the aging process and are not necessarily a reason to be concerned, although failing memory is a symptom that typically characterizes Alzheimer’s disease. The MIND diet is a brain health diet that was designed to prevent dementia and loss of brain function, by boosting overall cognitive and mental health. Read more »
Posture is one of the pillars for good health, vitality, performance and overall wellbeing, similar to exercise, sleep and nutrition. It ensures that the body is well positioned to perform its various internal functions and daily life activities while sitting, sleeping, walking or when engaged in various physical activities. Posture is important to balance the force of gravity on our muscles, joints and ligaments and ensure an equal distribution to avoid over stressing some areas. Learn More »
Herbs and spices are known to help protect against chronic diseases. Studies have shown that their regular consumption provides many health benefits, some of them offering high antioxidant protection. Herbs and spices are commonly found in many food recipes and some cultures traditionally include specific ones in their cuisine. Check out some herbs and spices ideas to upgrade your health »
A healthy diet incorporating fruits and vegetables can produce noticeable effects in a short time in blood pressure and reduce overall health risks. High blood pressure requires the heart to work hard to pump oxygen and nutrients in the blood to different body parts. When arteries become damaged with time due to high blood pressure, impact to organs can lead to heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. The following foods can help fight high blood pressure (…) Read More »
Mindfulness is about focusing in the present moment, staying conscious and aware of thoughts, feelings and sensations in a non-judgemental way. Mindful eating involves paying attention to these in relation to the process of eating. It’s more than paying attention to what you are eating: being aware of how we are paying attention and making choices is important. Developing mindful eating takes time and it is a process that requires non-judgement and compassion. (…) Read More »
Wheatgrass is nature’s energy fuel due to its high chlorophyll content. It can help the body build red blood cells, which carry oxygen to different organs and tissues, and it has great cleansing capabilities. Due to these characteristics, wheatgrass can effectively eliminate toxins and promote overall better health and vitality. The list of wheatgrass’s benefits are amazing (…) Read more »
Chai tea is an Indian drink from the Ayurvedic medical tradition made of water, milk, spices and black tea that is decocted for a minimum of 20 minutes. Chai literally means tea and it is referred to as masala chai in its original version. It offers excellent antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory properties, antibacterial action, digestion protection and potential anti-cancer effects thanks to the blend of spices that are incorporated into this drink. (…) Learn all about 7 Anti-Inflammatory Reasons to Drink Chai Tea »
Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, Alzheimer’s or cancer are linked to inflammation, a silent disease until pain, debilitation or disability symptoms manifest. Poor nutrition, lack of exercise, inadequate sleep, stress, environmental factors and toxins are the main factors leading to chronic inflammation. Excess body fat is seen as the key cause of this epidemic. The following steps can offer significant help in preventing or reversing the risk of inflammation. (…) Read More »
What is ageing? What causes it? Can ageing be halted or even reversed? Can disease, disorder and death be deferred or avoided? Is there a formula for longevity? Although these are complex questions with challenging solutions, one area that is commonly the object of scientific research is the search for prolonged health and wellbeing. Death is certain, but can ageing be delayed, prevented or reengineered?
Read more »
Many have benefited from the advantages of infrared sauna and the results seem to be safe, effective and with healing consequences. Infrared light treatment has the potential to cause chemical and cellular changes in the body which helps restore balance and address pain, inflammation, circulation, mood and energy. No adverse side effects have been reported. Combined with diet and other lifestyle factors, infrared sauna can produce great health and anti-aging effects. (…) Read more »
Vacation time is usually associated with family, friends, good food and good times. Sometimes, vacation planning and travel can be stressful and tiring, and health plans are not always implemented. Vacation is a great opportunity to relax and revitalize, and to maintain or start a healthy lifestyle. Follow these tips to optimize your health and happiness, and to ensure you return feeling reenergized and rejuvenated. Read More »
Cardiovascular disease and diabetes are the leading causes of death worldwide and they have been named the silent killer of the twenty-first century. The dramatic increase in the incidence of heart, stroke and diabetic disease in the last century made it an epidemic and a primary public health concern, sometimes referred to as Cardiometabolic Syndrome in medical terms.. (…) Read More »
Cosmetic and skin care are a billion dollar industry and new products are created every year for a myriad of purposes ranging from acne to anti-aging. The skin is the largest organ in the human body and it is affected by the same factors that influence health and longevity, such as lifestyle and environmental factors. (…) These steps can help fight cellular damage, restore skin tone and texture, and promote a healthy complexion and glowing skin (…) Read More »
Food indulgences and compulsions, and the increasing numbers in obesity and chronic disease, make it necessary to break from unhealthy eating patterns, processed foods, saturated fat, refined carbohydrates, and excessive caffeine and alcohol. Changing what and how we eat can make us healthier, leading to a path of transformation which can reverse damages and diseases. (…) Learn all about the real benefits of Juice Fasting »
Risk factors that affect blood circulation related to lifestyle include lack of exercise, being overweight, poor diet, smoking, overuse of alcohol and high levels of stress. These risks can be controlled and modified. Although poor blood circulation is prevalent in older adults, it can affect people of any age. The risks can be serious and proper attention should be given to avoid dangerous impact to limbs, heart, brain and liver.
The following are common signs and symptoms of poor blood circulation (…) Read More »
A healthy diet is not about deprivation, starvation or limitation. With a mindful and skillful approach, it should focus on promoting health and well-being without sacrifice of joy and pleasure of eating. There are many commonly agreed upon food categories that support balanced eating and nutrition, detoxification and healing, energy and vitality. Longevity suggests consumption of these 10 superfoods every day to feel better and live longer. (…)
Read all about Longevity 10 Best Foods to Eat Everyday »
A lymphatic system that does not function well is associated with chronic disease and it can manifest in health reactions such as soreness of breast, fatigue, eczema and other skin problems, cold limbs, bloating, headaches, and physical rigidity. Good health and wellbeing depend on a well-functioning lymphatic system. As such, detoxifying the lymphatic system, as well as other systems in the body, should be given extreme importance and it should be part of a healthy lifestyle. The following strategies can improve the health and function of the lymphatic system (…) Learn all about 11 great steps to detox your lymphatic system »
Energy is important as it allows our bodies and minds to execute a series of activities throughout the day and in our lives. This energy is derived from the foods we eat and the way our bodies process them. As such, it becomes crucial to consume the types of food that help boost energy and promote vitality. The following list will help recharge the body’s batteries and help you recover and revitalize when you feel tired and sluggish (…) Read all about how to improve your Energy and Vitality »
A balanced and healthy diet plays a key role in maintaining and restoring health, and promoting longevity. Managing a balanced menu is the first step to living well, contributing to the prevention of diseases, increasing vitality and leading to vigour in the performance of daily activities.
Having a well-organized, well-planned grocery list will not only get you in and out of the supermarket quickly, it will also keep your healthy eating plan on track. (…)
Read all about our Grocery Tips for Healthy Shopping »
What is the relationship between toxins, detoxification and cancer? Our bodies are constantly exposed to toxins, from environmental pollutants to chemical toxins released by the body in its normal processing. If the body is unable to detoxify itself effectively, the accumulation of toxins often leads to cellular damage and inflammation with its risk of serious chronic diseases, including cancer.
Healthy ageing and longevity depend both on genetic and non-genetic factors. While some of these are outside one’s control there are others that are determined by our lifestyle, emotions and attitudes which have a strong link to quality of life, long term health and lifespan. According to the National Institute of Ageing, education is the most important social factor affecting longevity.(…) Educational and social aspects aside, there are also other critical factors that depend directly on individual behaviours, attitudes, choices and lifestyle. Read More »
According to the American Psychology Association, 75% of adults continue to experience high levels of stress and many people report increasing levels compared to previous years. Stress is an important health concern and is common in many countries and in various dimensions of our lives, from work to relationships.
Stress is often considered a silent killer due to its adverse effects on physical and mental health.
Read More »
What is Fasting?
In simple terms, fasting means absence of eating. It involves a conscious and willing abstinence or decrease of food and or drinks during a limited period of time. A juice fasting, for example, allows the consumption of juices only while temporarily restricting other food.
What Fasting is Not?
Fasting is not starvation. Fasting does not mean food deprivation but rather limitation and adaptation of food intake… Learn More »
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is produced from a process of fermentation of apples and it has been used for 5000 years to help detoxify the body, increase circulation, strengthen the immune system and blood purification. The main beneficial ingredient in ACV is acetic acid which has a probiotic effect in the body, with the ability to kill harmful bacteria (including E-Coli). (…) There are many ACV applications with potential benefits, making some doctors recommend its daily consumption, mixing it with water. (…) Read More »
According to sleep expert William Dement, sleep is “the most important predictor of how long you will live — perhaps more important than smoking, exercise or high blood pressure.” Sleep is indeed regarded as health therapy, rather than a passive state of body and mind, due to its restoring and healing effects. Wake up to some of the facts and factors that may be stealing your health, changing at cells, exacerbating inflammation and increasing cardiovascular risk.
Read More »
Inflammation is a normal and healthy response by the body to bacteria, viruses and damaged cells. While there are many factors that may contribute to chronic inflammation, nutrition has a significant influence. As such, what we eat can directly contribute to accumulated detrimental effects of inflammatory responses which may not manifest in visible or noticeable symptoms until much later. Therefore, diet can play a critical role in preventing or addressing damage to the body. (…) Read More »
The benefits of going to the beach range from overall relaxation to skin regeneration. Ocean water is known to clear conditions like acne, psoriasis and dryness, or simply dull and deteriorated skin by internal and external factors. In 4th century B.C. Hipprocrates, known as the father of medicine, was the first to introduce the medical benefits of seawater for healing purposes. (…) Seawater is not only for skin rejuvenation. It’s also good to revive the heart and soul. Read More »
Weekly physical activity is required for optimum health and longevity. The total recommended 150 minutes a week might seem impossible or unlikely for some, due to time limitation, lifestyle constraints or other factors. (…) Exercise in general supports cardiovascular health, helps lower blood sugar, promotes weight loss and improves mood and energy. Feeling and looking better sometimes comes faster than expected once any program is under way. Read More »
The word “diet” is usually associated with calorie deprivation, with a primary focus on the type and quantity of food consumed, often with disregard of a particular aspect too important to be forgotten: food and nutrients have the capacity to influence and modulate the general function of our body, a key concept in terms of metabolic health. In this context, the Longevity Functional Menu was developed to contribute to a better natural body detoxification system, reducing its inflammation overload, facilitating cellular regeneration and optimizing overall health. (…) Read More »
Eating a well balanced diet and food moderation are critical for a healthy lifestyle. Whether we tend to munch in between meals for emotional reasons or simply feel the need to grab a snack due to hunger, what we eat – rather than food avoidance – can be used as strategies to support both weight loss and wellness. Choosing foods that are naturally appetite suppressants can attenuate erratic eating, uncontrollable cravings, hunger pangs, mood swings and fluctuations in energy levels. (…) Read More »
The primary reason for a detoxification is to remove potentially detrimental and dangerous waste from the body and protect organs and systems so that they may perform their vital functions in an optimum manner. As toxins are flushed out of the body, the benefits of detoxification will be evident in the way you feel and function, depending on the level of toxin overload and the detox approaches followed. Some reported benefits of detoxification are… Learn More »
Toxins are harmful substances that are derived from food, water, cleaning products, and other environmental sources that we are exposed to regularly. An accumulation of toxins may become poisonous in the human body, which may lead to potential damage of vital organs and systems. A toxic body may manifest a variety of signs and symptoms… Learn More »
Overuse, underuse or misuse of muscle generate potential stiffness, tension, pain and inflammation. Staying inactive, sustaining an injury, poor posture or overdoing at the gym can lead to these conditions. In most of the cases, the muscle tension is caused by stress and anxiety, making it one of the top health complaints. There are several natural remedies that can help alleviate muscle tension. Learn More »
While the list of the healthiest foods may vary both in terms of their order of importance in nutrient density or healing potential, some foods are consistently regarded superfoods. These nutrition dense foods can add flavour, fiber and flexibility to your meals. Incorporate these in your diet for potent health benefits, anti-aging effects and anti-carcinogenic properties. Read More »
A sensible weight loss program usually combines an exercise routine with nutrition management, meal planning, weight training, stress reduction and other strategies. The tips below, if not already included in your weight loss steps, will bring added benefits to help you drop extra pounds.
Read More »
Sprouts are becoming increasingly known for their nutrition powerhouse. Sprouts are low in calories and rich in fibre, enzymes, protein, and other micro-nutrients. Not many people eat them although they can easily be bought or grown at home without requiring advanced gardening skills. There are tremendous health benefits from including sprouts in your diet… Read More »
There are many factors that can shift or impact mood, including stress, fatigue and relationship factors. Feeling down or depressed are common phenomena. Use these simple steps to uplift mood, reduce stress and boost energy for the rest of the day. Investing the time to include them in your regular routines will support your overall physical and emotional wellbeing.
Read More »
Walking is a natural and a relatively easy exercise and, yet, there are mistakes commonly made that can be avoided to improve health benefits and minimize body tension and injury. Paying attention to these pitfalls can add enjoyment and mileage to the walking exercise.
Read More »
Do you find yourself caught in these behaviours that are potentially affecting your health and weight? If you are not aware about how much you are consuming pay attention to these common situations where we tend to consume more than the necessary or ideal amount of food.
Read More »
