It’s a fact that nearly five million people worldwide live with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Rates continue to rise fastest in countries where ultra-processed foods dominate the diet. They are convenient, shelf-stable, and engineered to please your palate and so much more. When real, whole foods seem unattainable because of the cost, ultra-processed foods usually win.

What Are Ultra-Processed Foods

Ultra-processed foods are shelf-stable food and drink products that have undergone extensive processing. More often than not, they contain a long list of ingredients, including preservatives, additives, flavorings, emulsifiers, and other substances. They are manufactured to be ready to eat, and some of their characteristics include:

• The production of ultra-processed foods involves industrial techniques, such as extrusion, molding, and pre-processing of certain ingredients. 
• Ultra-processed foods are convenient, designed for quick consumption, and are typically ready to eat (think instant noodles or packaged snacks).
• The ingredients in ultra-processed foods are not commonly used in home cooking, often containing preservatives, additives, flavoring agents, and so much more. 
• Unfortunately, they are low in nutrients, despite being energy-dense. Ultra-processed foods lack many of the essential nutrients compared to whole foods, and they contain unhealthy amounts of added sugars, fats, and sodium.

What Did The Research Look At?

A growing body of research suggests that ultra-processed foods may be altering the gut, especially in regards to Crohn’s disease. A new narrative review compiled more than a decade’s worth of research examining the relationship between ultra-processed foods and Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Rather than focusing on one study, researchers analyzed population data, dietary interventions, and mechanistic experiments to detect whether a consistent pattern emerged. 

Researchers found something that was both consistent and hard to ignore across large observational studies. People who ate more ultra-processed foods had a higher risk of developing Crohn’s disease. The link was much weaker for ulcerative colitis, which suggests that Crohn’s may be very sensitive to dietary exposures. The focus was less concerned with fat, calories, or carbs; rather, it was about the structure of the food itself. 

Why Do Ultra-Processed Foods Stress The Gut?

Ultra-processed foods are industrial formulations made from additives and refined ingredients designed to enhance texture, flavor, and shelf-life. Artificial sweeteners, thickening agents, emulsifiers, colorants, and more are commonly scrutinized ingredients in ultra-processed foods. According to mechanistic studies, some emulsifiers seem to thin the gut’s protective mucus layer. That ultimately makes it easier for bacteria to come in direct contact with intestinal tissues. Other types of bacteria can alter gut microbiome, which reduces the presence of beneficial microbes and increases the presence of inflammatory ones. 

There is no evidence that certain additives can increase intestinal permeability, or leaky gut. If that happens, bacterial fragments can cross into the bloodstream and activate immune responses. Over time, that low-grade immune activation can contribute to chronic inflammation common in Crohn’s disease. That does not happen overnight, but repeated exposure can slowly push the gut into a highly vulnerable state.

What is certain is that this research does not prove that ultra-processed foods cause Crohn’s disease. Most of the evidence is observational, but when population data aligns with biological mechanisms and clinical outcomes, the signal is hard to ignore. If you already have IBD, please understand that ultra-processed foods can worsen symptoms. Consider eliminating these foods from your diet to help induce remission, which has been proven in children.

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Where is the fountain of youth? Is it hiding at the bottom of your salad bowl? Perhaps it is within your spirulina wellness shot or at the end of a good night’s sleep. People think that genetics primarily influence life expectancy, but the reality is that genes play a much smaller role than people think. As it turns out, environmental factors like diet and lifestyle habits play bigger roles. In this article, we cover various habits to form right now to help you live a longer life. 

Stay Physically Active

The more you move now, the better your chances are of maintaining that mobility into your older age. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that adults engage in 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic activity every week. You can also do some strength training a couple days a week to maintain muscle mass. Regular exercise may help you achieve:

• Weight loss
• Improved mood
• Reduced risk of developing chronic health conditions

Prioritize What Makes You Happy

Happiness does not get enough attention when it comes to your health. How happy you feel can make a big difference on your mental health, physical health, and longevity. A 2023 study found that happiness was significantly associated with living longer. Study authors suggested that happiness alone will not add years to your life. It can help, so long as you couple it with other factors that contribute to optimal mental and physical health. Make sure to set aside time to do things that bring you joy, be it drawing, reading, bowling, calling people, or playing video games. You can also keep a gratitude journal to help increase levels of happiness and optimism. 

Nurture Your Social Circle

Research suggests that a healthy social network can contribute to a longer life and better health. A strong social circle may also help you react in a less negative way to stress, which may explain its effect on longevity. Offering your support to others may increase your happiness and sense of purpose. Always remember to both accept care from friends and family and offer it in return whenever you can. 

Eat A Balanced Diet

These days, there are diets that offer support to the brain, heart, joints, gut, and overall health. Generally speaking, dietitians encourage people to increase their intake of plant foods, as they may decrease the risk of diseases and promote overall health. Many studies link a plant-based diet to a lower risk of premature death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and more. Focus on consuming a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes. 

Avoid Smoking

It shouldn’t even have to be said, and yet it does. Nicotine is highly accessible and addictive, especially when you consider the popularity of flavored vapes, nicotine pouches, and traditional cigarettes. Smoking increases the risk of lung cancer, being responsible for about 90% of cases. It also increases the risk of stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, and other cancers. Smoking damages nearly every organ in the body, affecting everything from lung function to reproductive health. Quit smoking, if you do smoke, to help reduce your risk of life-threatening disease. It’s never too late to quit. 

Try To Avoid Chronic Stress And Anxiety

It’s almost a guarantee that you will encounter some stress, and perhaps some anxiety, at some point in life. A 2024 review found that chronic stress and anxiety can increase the risk of developing conditions like heart disease. The review also found that men are more likely to experience chronic stress and anxiety compared to women. If you regularly experience stress or anxiety and find that it interferes with your everyday life, consider speaking with a mental health professional. They may help you establish a treatment plan to help reduce stressors for ultimate relief. 

Longevity may ultimately see out of your control, but a lot of healthy habits may help you thrive well into your old age. Following a plant-based diet, quitting smoking, reducing stress, exercising regularly, and even getting enough sleep can help you live a long and healthy life.

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We are a little over a week into 2026 and many people have already begun their Dry January journey, a month of abstaining from alcohol. There are many reasons that draw people to participating in this yearly event. It’s possible that the body is in desperate need of a break after a week of spiked eggnog and celebratory bubbles. It’s also possible that concerns are more serious.

According to research and surveys, alcohol has become more of a problem in society since the COVID-19 pandemic. Drinking to excess, including binge drinking, increased by 21% in the United States during the pandemic. Researchers project that a one-year increase in alcohol consumption will cause 8,000 deaths from alcohol-related liver disease. 

It makes sense that people resorted to alcohol during the pandemic, which was full of uncertainty. Alcohol hits the neurochemical pathways in the brain to release endorphins that make you feel good. Many researchers state that sitting down with an alcoholic beverage provides a temporary sense of ease and comfort, making it a popular go-to for people to unwind. 

Why Do People Do Dry January

January marks the start of a new year, a fresh start to wipe the slate clean. The culture has programmed everyone into thinking that it is a time to break habits that no longer support your health. If you are concerned about your use of alcohol, the New Year may be the fresh start you need. You can join the masses who participate in Dry January, especially if you notice that your drinking habits have increased. Drinking more than seven alcoholic beverages per week can lead to a slew of health issues, so a month-long break may kickstart your efforts into changing up your beverage intake. Come February, you may find that alcohol doesn’t have the same place in your life as it did previously. 

You May Reduce Bloating And Lose Weight

Depending on how much you drank prior to Dry January, you may or may not lose a few pounds this month. Boozy beverages add empty calories to your diet, meaning they don’t fill you up the same way food calories do. Because of that, you can either keep drinking, or you increase your consumption of unhealthy foods, which leads to a caloric surplus. A lot of people also feel bloated as a result of drinking alcoholic beverages, especially from beer. Research states that chronic alcohol use can inflame the gastrointestinal tract, which can wreak havoc on the body. 

You May Sleep Better

A popular reason for drinking alcohol is to help relax the body and fall asleep. The reality is that while alcohol may put you to sleep, the sleep you get after drinking isn’t the best. You often wake up more frequently during the night and cannot get sufficient deep sleep. A small study found that drinking alcohol caused decreased sleep time and sleep efficiency. Dry January may benefit your sleep and energy levels, helping you feel more clear-headed and motivated. With that extra energy, you may have more energy for other activities, such as working out. 

You’ll Save Money

It is very easy to spend too much money when you hit the bars with friends. Shelling out $10 to $16 for a craft cocktail or pour of wine can put a serious dent in your wallet. Even if you don’t go out all the time, buying alcohol from the store several times a week can also add up. When you take a month off, you’ll notice that your bank account doesn’t decrease as rapidly. Realizing that may cause you to change your drinking habits once Dry January comes to a close. 

Your May Enhance Immune Function

A 2015 study found that healthy people who had an episode of binge drinking experienced a reduction in disease-fighting immune cells. Being intoxicated can suppress immune function, which makes you more vulnerable to pathogens. Chronic drinking, on the other hand, can increase your risk of inflammatory reactions throughout the body. Even one night of heavy drinking can impair your body’s ability to fight off infections for 24 hours. All that is to say that abstaining from alcohol may improve your body’s defense against viruses, bacteria, and pathogens. 

You’ll Have A New Relationship With Alcohol

When you hit the pause button on alcohol, you may realize that you don’t have to drink every day, or even at all. Learning that you don’t need alcohol in your life can be a valuable lesson for many people. Maybe you thought you needed alcohol to fall asleep, but you found that you slept better without it. The main thing is to analyze how you feel and assess the pros/cons of Dry January. It is very common that people view alcohol in a different light and have a more positive relationship moving forward. 

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People seem to get scared when they hear or see the word “inflammation.” By definition, inflammation is the immune system’s natural response to illness and injury. It’s a process that helps the body heal and recover. The problem is when inflammation becomes chronic. Chronic inflammation can cause a range of problems, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic disease, and certain cancers. Diet plays a major role in regulating inflammation, including the beverages you drink. In this article, we will detail six drinks that can help fight inflammation. 

Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherries are naturally rich in anthocyanins, which are natural pigments that have demonstrated an ability to reduce inflammation and muscle soreness. Tart cherry juice is a game changer if you are looking to loosen up stiff joints. Sipping just a half-cup twice daily may be helpful in providing anti-inflammatory benefits throughout the day. Just make sure that you purchase 100% tart cherry juice, not cherry juice that contains added sugars and other preservatives. 

Ginger Tea

Studies show that ginger contains nearly 40 anti-inflammatory compounds, including gingerols. Those compounds help calm inflammatory pathways and aid digestion, which indirectly lowers inflammation, according to health experts. Some studies found that people can experience these benefits consuming small amounts of ginger, such as a fresh cup of ginger tea once per day, especially after meals. 

Pomegranate Juice

Say hello to this polyphenol powerhouse. Pomegranate juice is particularly rich in punicalagins, which work to “cool down” systemic inflammation. Studies suggest that drinking a cup of 100% pure pomegranate juice is a great way to help cells bounce back from everyday stress. The punicalagins work to lower levels of C-reactive protein, a key marker of inflammation in the body. If you are opposed to pomegranate juice, consider 100% grape or berry juice, as both of those are rich in anthocyanins and resveratrol, both of which are anti-inflammatory compounds. 

Green Tea

Rich in catechins, which are antioxidant compounds, green tea may help reduce inflammatory markers and oxidative stress in the body. Generally, one to two cups per day is enough to see a benefit for most people. Just keep in mind that in order to maximize the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits, skip added sugar or honey if you want to reduce inflammation. 

Kombucha

According to research, kombucha exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. This is largely due to the polyphenols, which work to neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Kombucha also contains organic acids, which are produced during the drink’s fermentation process. Those acids may further support the anti-inflammatory effects of the polyphenols. 

Turmeric Tea

Similar to ginger, turmeric is a spice that exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which are largely due to curcumin, turmeric’s active compound. Turmeric tea is widely available, as is the powdered spice. It also comes in supplement form, but make sure that the supplement contains black pepper, as that increases curcumin’s bioavailability. The body has a hard time absorbing curcumin on its own, so adding black pepper can increase turmeric’s effectiveness.

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If you have hypertension (high blood pressure), management is key in order to minimize your risk of heart attack or stroke. In order to manage high blood pressure, you have to avoid or limit certain foods, in addition to supplements, as they can affect blood pressure, or make matters worse. 

High blood pressure is characterized by a blood pressure reading of 130/80 mm Hg or higher. Older adults have a higher risk of the condition, due to large arteries getting stiffer with age. If you cannot control blood pressure on your own with lifestyle changes, medication may be necessary. The American Heart Association (AHA) estimated that 46% of American adults have high blood pressure. Should you have the condition, avoid the supplements in this article. 

Licorice Root

Licorice root is not solely used as a flavoring in food, candy, and even tobacco products. In fact, it has a long history of use in folk medicine, treating wounds and relieving symptoms of lung disease and liver disease. Licorice root contains glycyrrhizic acid (GA), which can elevate blood pressure. Researchers note that doses as low as 100 milligrams (mg) can raise blood pressure. Other supplements with GA can also interact with diuretics and blood pressure meds. It may affect how well blood pressure meds work and increase the risk of side effects. If you have high blood pressure, it is best to avoid products that contain licorice root. 

Arnica

Some people use arnica ointment to reduce swelling and bruising, while others take it orally as a supplement. Arnica belongs to the sunflower family and is usually taken by mouth homeopathically. There are typically no. active ingredients in homeopathic products, so side effects are unlikely. That said, taking arnica by mouth can increase blood pressure or potentially damage some organs, including the heart. This is not for certain, but if you have high blood pressure, avoid arnica supplements. 

Bitter Orange

Taken from the fruit or peel of a bitter orange, this supplement is typically used to aid weight loss or improve athletic performance. The fruit and peel of bitter orange can also be used to flavor drinks or in perfumes and other beauty products for aromatic purposes. Bitter orange does contain p-Synephrine, which is a type of stimulant similar to ephedrine. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned ephedrine stimulants because they can cause health issues, such as heart attack and stroke. Although bitter orange is not on a banned list, use it with caution, especially if you have high blood pressure. Studies show that this supplement can not only raise heart rate and blood pressure, but also increase the risk for heart attack and stroke. Bitter orange found in food and drinks is not likely to cause these issues, though. 

Vitamin D (In High Doses)

The body produces vitamin D when the skin is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Vitamin D is necessary for optimal bone health, inflammation reduction, and other bodily functions. It is naturally available in foods and supplement form. Some research indicates that vitamin D may play a role in treating high blood pressure, specifically in doses of 200 – 8,000 International Units (IU) per day. Doses larger than 10,000 IU per day can lead to dangerous side effects, such as high calcium levels (hypercalcemia). Over time, hypercalcemia can cause high blood pressure. High doses of vitamin D can also interact with certain diuretics, which are commonly used to treat high blood pressure. The body may not get rid of enough calcium, raising calcium and blood pressure in the process. 

St. John’s Wort

This plant is often used to treat symptoms of menopause and depression. Despite its longstanding use in traditional medicine, this plant may negatively interact with a variety of medications. St John’s wort weakens the efficacy of medications used to treat high blood pressure. Some of the blood pressure meds that St. John’s wort interacts with include Talinolol, Verelan, and Procardia. The interactions are likely due to the fact that St. John’s wort blocks the medication from being absorbed by the body.

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A lot of people find it difficult to pull off seasonal eating during the winter, especially when it comes to fruits. The weather and darker days inspire people to eat comfort foods and avoid trips to local markets and such. The reality is that winter fruits are rich in a plethora of nutrients, and buying them from local farmers helps support their business.

Which fruits grow during the winter? You tend to see a lot of citrus varieties, including blood oranges and grapefruit, in addition to kiwi, winter melons, and more. When you put an emphasis on cold-weather produce, you can obtain integral nutrients that support immune function and more. Some of the key nutrients in these fruits include magnesium, fiber, and vitamin C. Continue reading to see which winter fruits you should be eating, although the availability of these fruits may depend on where you live. For example locations closer to the equator may experience more winter fruits than people who live closer to Canada and deal with serious weather. Regardless, examples of winter fruits are as follows:

Kiwi

The small, fuzzy fruit with a green flesh that packs more vitamin C than an orange. It is harvested through winter and into spring and provides lots of vitamin K, vitamin E, and potassium. Kiwi is also a rich source of antioxidant compounds, including phenols and carotenoids. These compounds work to reduce oxidative stress, which can increase the risk of certain age-related diseases. 

Pomegranates

This red, sweet and sour fruit is filled with small, juicy seeds, also called arils. These arils are rich in antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids that have been linked to detoxification, improved heart health, and cancer prevention. Pomegranates are also rich in folate, vitamins C & K, and potassium. 

Persimmon

Persimmons have a limited window, so get your hands on them before they disappear until next fall. Native to Asia, persimmons are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese. They contain gallic acid and epicatechin gallate, two compounds that may help reduce cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation. 

Clementines

Sometimes called “cuties” or “halos” in grocery stores, clementines are essentially small oranges. More specifically, they are types of mandarin oranges made from crossing two different orange species. They are usually easy to peel, seedless, and naturally rich in vitamin C, which may enhance skin and immune health. 

Grapefruit

Similar to other citrus fruits, grapefruit grow predominantly in California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida. You typically see them from January to late spring, and they offer a lot of vitamin C and vitamin A. Researchers have identified several beneficial phytochemicals in grapefruit, including beta-carotene, limonoids, lycopene, and naringenin. These compounds may fight free radical damage and oxidative stress, which contribute to early signs of aging and chronic disease development. 

Kumquat

Yet another citrus fruit, the kumquat is a tiny sweet and sour citrus that comes from the same plant family as the orange. Kumquats are great sources of vitamin C and fiber, and you can actually eat the entire fruit. Yes, you can even eat the thin peel! The pulp has a distinctly sour flavor, but the skin provides a little extra sweetness, in addition to protective antioxidant compounds. 

Winter Melon

No matter which way you slice it, winter melon (or ash gourd) is a great fruit to consume during winter. Naturally rich in fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C, winter melon is dark green and has an oblong shape. The flesh is white, as are the seeds, but you cannot consume it raw. Typically, you simmer or steam winter melon because it is heated more like a vegetable than fruit in Indian and other Asian countries.

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It is not hard to recognize an acorn squash because, well, it is the exact shape of an acorn. It has a ribbed green exterior with bright orange flesh and belongs to the Cucurbitaceae gourd family. Although acorn squash belongs to the same summer species as summer squash like zucchini and crookneck, its season is during late fall and winter. Many people enjoy it because it exhibits a sweet and nutty flavor and tender texture when cooked. 

Acorn Squash Nutrition

Similar to other winter squash varieties, acorn squash provides a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. One cup of cubed, cooked acorn squash provides:

• Calories: 115
• Carbohydrates: 29.9 grams (g)
• Fiber: 9 g
• Protein: 2.3 g
• Vitamin C: 22.1 milligrams (mg)
• Folate: 39 micrograms (mcg)
• Iron: 1.91 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.39 mg
• Magnesium: 88.2 mg
• Manganese: 0.49 mg
• Potassium: 896 mg

May Help Reduce Inflammation

There are numerous chronic diseases fueled by systemic inflammation. For this reason, dietitians encourage everyone to consume more antioxidant-rich foods, such as acorn squash. Antioxidants work to reduce inflammation by cleaning cells of harmful waste. Acorn squash contains vitamins A & C and manganese, all of which have antioxidant properties. It is particularly rich in carotenoids, like zeaxanthin, which are plant pigments that may help protect against cardiovascular disease, neurological disease, some cancers, and type 2 diabetes. 

Boosts Digestive Health

With nine grams of fiber per cup, acorn squash is a great food to help you meet your recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber. A diet rich in fiber can help contribute to digestive health, since the gut microbiome requires fiber to create a healthy habitat for beneficial bacteria. Additionally, more fiber in the diet can help prevent constipation. Acorn squash also has magnesium, which is known for its laxative and stool-softening properties. 

May Support Healthy Vision

As we mentioned earlier, acorn squash is rich in carotenoids and vitamin A, both of which support eyesight. It also contains lutein, which has been linked to sharper vision. The most sensitive part of the retina in the eye is the macula, which has the highest concentration of photoreceptors. It is the portion of the retina where your sharpest vision is produced. Lutein and zeaxanthin help form the pigment in the macula that protects millions of photoreceptor cells located in the small area of the central retina. 

Supports Immune Function

Although acorn squash doesn’t offer the same amount of vitamin C as a kiwi, guava, bell pepper, or orange does, it does provide about one-quarter of the RDI. Research shows that getting sufficient vitamin C every day can help prevent and treat respiratory and systemic infections. According to scientific studies, it is better to get your vitamin C through your food, as opposed to a supplement. The reason for this is because it may increase the bioavailability, due to the fact that food also contains other nutrients that impact how the body absorbs vitamin C. 

May Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Researchers note that increasing your intake of potassium has a powerful effect on lowering blood pressure, especially when coupled with a low-sodium diet. Adding magnesium to the equation has an even more pronounced effect for blood pressure reduction. Acorn squash is a great source of potassium and magnesium and while the squash itself is not linked to lower blood pressure, the nutrients it provides may aid your efforts.

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Whether you use fresh or canned pumpkin, incorporating pumpkin into your meals is never a bad idea. That is especially true when pumpkins are plentiful during fall. Even the seeds, which you should not throw away after scooping out the stringy flesh, offer beneficial nutrients. The actual pumpkin flesh, though, is one of the richest sources of beta-carotene and contains other nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, carotenoids, copper, potassium, iron, and more. 

What Is Pumpkin?

The pumpkin is considered one of  the oldest domesticated plants. Historians suspect that tribes native to North America grew them since at least 5,000 BCE. Pumpkin is technically a fruit, but people commonly think of it as a vegetable. Fruits are edible, seed-bearing, flowering plants, which makes all squash fruits. The pumpkin is technically a winter squash that comes from the Cucurbita pepo or Cucurbita maxima plants. It is related to watermelon, zucchini, and cucumber, among other fruits and vegetables. The entire pumpkin, minus the string flesh and skin, is edible.

Pumpkin flesh and seeds are rich in a wide variety of nutrients. They contain everything from zinc and vitamin A to healthy fats and fiber. We hope that you don’t reserve pumpkins just for carving this year and that you enjoy them for all their health benefits. If you choose to use canned pumpkin, make sure it is 100% pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. The former is real pumpkin, while the latter is rich in processed ingredients, added sugars, and unhealthy oils. Continue reading to learn why you should eat more pumpkin. 

May Help Regulate Blood Pressure

A one-cup serving of cooked pumpkin provides more than 12% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte found in bananas, avocados, squash, potatoes, and other fruits and vegetables. Most adults lack sufficient potassium in their diets, which is a shame since potassium may help regulate blood pressure. It works to counteract the effects of sodium, which most Americans consume in excess regularly. Additionally, the fiber in pumpkin may help promote healthy cholesterol levels, which lowers the risk of heart disease. 

Provides Manganese And Copper

These two minerals may not receive as much attention as other nutrients, but they are integral to overall health. Manganese helps protect against bone density loss and fractures. The anti-inflammatory properties of manganese may also help encourage optimal metabolic, joint, and brain health. Copper, on the other hand, helps promote the formation of hemoglobin and collagen. It also aids with the synthesis of enzymes and proteins involved with respiration, energy metabolism, and DNA synthesis. 

Helps Maintain Healthy Vision

Pumpkin’s vibrant orange color is attributed to the impressive beta-carotene content. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and essential for maintaining healthy vision as you age. Several studies indicate that beta-carotene may help lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts, two common age-related causes of vision loss. Lutein and zeaxanthin are two other carotenoids in pumpkins and they work to protect the eyes from oxidative stress and UV light. 

Supports Healthy Skin

Pumpkins contain vitamins A, C, and E, in addition to zinc, all of which contribute to healthier skin. Vitamin C works to enhance collagen production and improve skin elasticity, which helps reduce the signs of aging. Zinc aids inflammation reduction and may help people with acne-prone skin. Lastly, research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition claimed that beta-carotene works to protect the skin from UV rays.

Lots Of Vitamins C & E

A one-cup serving of cooked pumpkin contains 13% of the RDI of both vitamin C and vitamin E. Vitamin C, as we mentioned previously, supports collagen synthesis and helps protect cells from tissue damage. It is also an integral antioxidant for optimal immune function and neurological health. Vitamin E also offers antioxidant effects, and a diet rich in vitamin E has been linked to a reduced risk of PMS symptoms, Alzheimer’s disease, acne, wrinkles, and hormonal problems. Vitamin E also works to prevent free radical damage, which may help to decrease the risk of several cancers, including colorectal and prostate cancer.

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Given the season, you might be craving all things pumpkin. Allow us to steal your focus away from the mighty pumpkin and direct it toward butternut squash. Much like pumpkin, butternut squash has an orange flesh that is celebrated for not only its flavor, but also its nutritional benefits. 

Butternut Squash Nutrition

Even though butternut squash is typically available year round, it tends to be most abundant during fall. A lot of people consider it to be a vegetable, but it is technically a fruit, although it lends itself to both sweet and savory applications. It exhibits a slightly nutty and decadent flavor that beautifully absorbs warming spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric. The following nutrients are present in 100 grams (g) of raw butternut squash:

• Calories: 48
• Protein: 1.15 g
• Carbohydrates: 10.5 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Folate (vitamin B9): 55 micrograms (mcg)
• Magnesium: 15 milligrams (mg)
• Vitamin C: 7.6 mg
• Potassium: 329 mg
• Iron: 0.21 mg
• Manganese: 0.075 mg
• Calcium: 22 mg

Butternut squash is also a rich source of carotenoids, including beta-carotene, which are plant pigments that give it the vibrant orange color. Those compounds are provitamin A carotenoids, which the body converts to retinal and retinoic acid (the active forms of vitamin A). Vitamin A is necessary for cell growth, eye health, bone health, and optimal immune function. Continue reading to discover why you should add more butternut squash to your diet. 

May Lower The Risk Of Heart Disease

A 2016 study in 2,445 people demonstrated that the risk of heart disease lowered 23% for every additional serving of yellow or orange vegetables. Butternut squash contains antioxidants that have a positive impact on the heart. Although more research is necessary to better understand the relationship of butternut squash on heart health, the existing research is promising. Butternut squash also contains potassium, which helps lower blood pressure, enhance muscle strength, and aid overall heart function.

Helps You See Better

Thanks to the carotenoid content, butternut squash is one of the best foods for eye health. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A in the body, which works to promote healthier vision. Butternut squash also contains lutein and zeaxanthin, which are other carotenoid compounds. A review of several studies found that those carotenoids help minimize the damage from ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun and blue light exposure. Butternut squash also contains vitamin C, which works in conjunction with vitamin A to help prevent age-related vision issues, such as macular degeneration and cataracts. 

Supports Healthy Digestion

One cup of butternut squash provides nearly 10% of the recommended daily intake (RDI) of fiber. The squash provides both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber moves slowly through the digestive system and forms a gel-like substance that helps feed healthy bacteria in the gut. Insoluble fiber helps the body process waste, improve overall gut health, and prevent constipation. Since fiber helps to fill you up, eating butternut squash may help stave off hunger cravings and aid weight loss efforts. Foods that are rich in fiber also help lower total cholesterol levels, improve blood sugar, and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Benefits Immune Function

In case it isn’t evident by now, butternut squash is rich in beta-carotene, but that isn’t the only antioxidant it contains. Butternut squash is also rich in vitamins C and E, both of which lend a helping hand to the immune system. Researchers note that all of the antioxidants in butternut squash help fight free radical damage, support immune function, and encourage optimal cellular health. During cold and flu season, which tends to coincide with fall, you should eat more vitamin C-rich foods, such as butternut squash. 

May Benefit Diabetes Treatment And Prevention

The body converts the food you eat into energy as carbs that are broken down into sugar (glucose). Most people don’t typically monitor blood sugar levels on a regular basis. That isn’t the case for people with diabetes, and the CDC estimates that one in 10 Americans has type 2 diabetes. You can prevent the disease or eradicate the need for medication by making smarter, healthier lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet. Butternut squash offers some anti-diabetic properties, according to some research. Although it contains carbohydrates, which get a bad rap, the other nutrients are of greater importance.

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There are many semaglutide and tirzepatide (known commercially as Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro) on the market. These drugs target GLP-1 receptors and have been influential in the treatment of diabetes and obesity. Many people can experience dramatic weight loss and benefits for other chronic health conditions. At the same time, these medications come at a steep cost, which has prompted health economists to ask this question: are these drugs worth the price tag?

Two relatively recent studies have researchers questioning the use of GLP-1 drugs. Even though they have the potential to deliver impressive long-term health improvements, their current high price exceeds the accepted thresholds for cost-effective medications. That not only poses difficult choices for policymakers, but also insurers and patients. 

GLP-1 Drugs: A Pharmaceutical Breakthrough?

Before you start a medication, you should understand how it works. In a nutshell, GLP-1 drugs mimic hormones that regulate hunger and satiety. This process helps people feel full sooner, and they eat less as a result. During clinical trials, GLP-1 drugs have produced weight loss of 15-20%, a percentage range that far exceeds older medications. They don’t just help with weight loss; rather, they may also improve conditions like sleep apnea, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular disease. 

That’s a big deal when you consider that obesity increases your risk of developing all of those conditions. According to premature predictions, GLP-1 drugs could potentially prevent thousands of cases of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. That said, there are many natural and healthier ways to contribute to overall health and wellness. The Dherbs Full Body Cleanse is one such program that can help you cleanse the body’s major organs and systems in just 20 days. One of the added benefits is weight loss of 10 to 30 pounds, which is depending on underlying health conditions and body weight. 

Here’s Why The Math Doesn’t Add Up

You can say that GLP-1 drugs offer a range of health benefits, and they do for some people, but at what cost? Generally speaking, a person spends between $700 to $1,000 per month on GLP-1 drugs in the U.S. Accounting for long-term health benefits, researchers have found that these drugs fall short regarding cost effectiveness. 

In an optimistic scenario, researchers used the best weight loss outcomes and long-term risk reductions. Even in that situation, the GLP-1 drugs did not meet the cost effectiveness threshold. This threshold is usually defined as less than $100,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY), a standard tool that health economists use to compare medical treatments. One study found that there would have to be a 30% price reduction of tirzepatide to meet the standard mark. For semaglutide drugs, they would need to cost 80% less than what they currently do. 

It’s important to note that Medicare pays for these GLP-1 drugs only if they are prescribed for diabetes or, more recently, sleep apnea. If Medicare expanded coverage, nearly three million beneficiaries would start using drugs over the next decade. Health economists expect those drug costs to total $66 billion, with nearly $18 billion saved through reduced hospitalizations. So over the next 10 years, Medicare would spend $48 billion on these drugs alone. 

Looking For Smarter Solutions

There are many other affordable ways to see better results without having to inject yourself with GLP-1 drugs. Plus, if you want to continue to see results, you have to keep using the medications. It’s much better to develop healthy lifestyle habits and lose weight with a plan in place. Anyone can tell you to exercise regularly, eat better, and establish healthy sleep habits, but those are general recommendations. 

At Dherbs, we pride ourselves in our all-natural products, especially the Full Body Cleanse. This 20-day program has helped people transform their health, and lose between 10 to 30 pounds in the process! Some people cleanse once per year to reset their bodies, while others cleanse back to back until they reach their desired health goals. There are knowledgeable customer service reps and an entire website full of resources to help you succeed. Plus, it’s a fraction of the cost of those GLP-1 drugs! Cleanse today and that weight will melt away, and the results are noticeable within a week, depending on the body and underlying health issues.

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