Posts Tagged ‘health’
Beware: everyday pitfalls that put a strain on your knees – Creabealounge Blog
Posted on: October 9, 2025
Creabealounge did a nice job with this post. Have a look at it. In addition, if you ever have muscle or joint soreness or pain, there may be a deficiency of calcium, magnesium, potassium or vitamin E. You can test a bit of each one separately to see if it will help, or eat more foods with these nutrients.
This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.
In a fast-paced world where sleep can sometimes feel like an unattainable luxury, finding natural ways to drift off peacefully can be a life-saver.
Thankfully, there are some drinks for sleep that are packed with ingredients that promote a deeper, longer-lasting rest. Have a look at these top 10 drinks that can help you achieve a night of restful slumber, featuring natural vitamins, minerals and herbs.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is the superstar of bedtime drinks for sleep. It contains apigenin, a powerful plant substance that binds to areas in the brain to promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia Think of it as a gentle nudge towards your pillow (from a 2011 study).
Sour Cherry Juice for Sleep
Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep and wake cycles. Research has shown that drinking tart cherry juice can significantly improve sleep duration and quality of sleep (from a 2010 study).
Warm milk
Warm milk isn’t just a comforting childhood memory. It’s rich in calcium and tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts melatonin levels, promoting sleep.
Almond Milk
Almond milk is a fantastic source of magnesium and calcium, both of which are crucial for good sleep. Magnesium helps relax the muscles and nerves and calms the body and mind (from a study in the Journal of Natural Medicine).
Banana Smoothie
Bananas are loaded with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, which aid in the production of melatonin. Blend a fresh or frozen banana with one cup of milk or almond milk and a half cup of ice, and you’ve got a delicious, sleep-inducing smoothie (from the Role of Bananas in the Sleep-Wake Cycle; Journal of Food Science and Technology).
Lemon Balm Tea
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. Its calming effects can help ease you into a restful night’s sleep (from a 2006 study).
Golden Milk
Golden milk, made with turmeric, milk, and honey, is not only delicious but also packed with sleep-enhancing properties. Turmeric contains curcumin, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and improve mood, indirectly promoting better sleep (from a 2019 study).
To make golden milk, combine 1 cup milk (or almond, coconut, oat milk), a half teaspoon turmeric powder, and one teaspoon honey or maple syrup. Boil and then simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, cool and enjoy.
Oat Straw Tea
Oat straw is an herb rich in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins. It’s known for its calming effects on the nervous system, making it an excellent choice for a bedtime beverage (from Nutritional Neuroscience).
Passionflower Tea
Passionflower tea can increase levels of GABA, a brain chemical that helps reduce stress and promote relaxation (from a Phytotherapy Journal; meaning plant therapy).
Coconut Water
Coconut water is rich in magnesium and potassium. If there is a deficiency of these minerals, it can lead to insomnia, leg cramps, and more. Coconut water is high in minerals and is a hydrating and soothing option for winding down at the end of the day.
Sip, Relax and Sleep
Try whichever one first that is the most appealing to you and start with small amounts. Observe the effects it has on your sleep and see if it agrees with you. If it doesn’t help, try the next one. You will certainly find one or more natural drinks for sleep that will help you relax. If you are taking any medications, keep in touch with your doctor and let them know which drinks you are trying.
With these delicious and scientifically-backed drinks for sleep, you’ll be on your way to a peaceful, rejuvenating night’s rest. So raise a cup to sweet dreams, sleep well, and wake up refreshed and ready to tackle the day!
This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.
Suzanne G. of Tucson, Arizona says: “I have had insomnia for most of my life and the longer I take Sleep Minerals II, the better I sleep. The best thing is that I can now get back to sleep if I wake up in the night. It has given me such a sense of peace to know that I now can be well rested during the day. I also find my brain less foggy from lack of sleep. I have tried many products on the market and this is the one that is gold. Thank you so much for producing a quality product!”
References
- Pigeon, W. R., Carr, M., Gorman, C., & Perlis, M. (2010). Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study. Journal of Medicinal Food, 13(3), 579-583.
- Zick, S. M., Wright, B. D., Sen, A., & Arnedt, J. T. (2011). Preliminary examination of the efficacy and safety of a standardized chamomile extract for chronic primary insomnia: a randomized placebo-controlled pilot study. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 11(1), 78.
- Barbagallo, M., & Dominguez, L. J. (2010). Magnesium and aging. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 16(7), 832-839.
- Balderas, J., González-Dávalos, L., & Alonso, R. (2013). Role of bananas in the sleep-wake cycle. Journal of Food Science and Technology, 50(6), 1269-1276.
- Kennedy, D. O., Little, W., & Scholey, A. B. (2006). Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm). Psychosomatic Medicine, 68(5), 732-737.
- Jahromi, S. R., Maleki, M., & Berrang, J. M. (2019). The effects of curcumin on sleep deprivation: a review. Neurochemical Research, 44(3), 499-507.
- Mitchell, J., Smith, M., & Macleod, K. (2011). Oat straw extract improves cognitive performance in healthy adults. Nutritional Neuroscience, 14(5), 236-242.
- Ngan, A., & Conduit, R. (2011). A double-blind, placebo-controlled investigation of the effects of Passiflora incarnata (passionflower) herbal tea on subjective sleep quality. Phytotherapy Research, 25(8), 1153-1159.
Greetings to you,
Welcome to the fifth issue of “Fun Nutrition News and Facts You’d Never Guess!” Get ready to be intrigued and inspired by some fascinating and little-known tidbits about the food we eat. Did you know that ….
Oats Can Lower Cholesterol
Oats contain a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which has been proven to lower cholesterol, control blood-sugar levels, and provide lasting energy throughout the day. They are a good source of vitamins B and E, as well as the minerals magnesium, zinc and manganese. Eating a bowl of oatmeal for breakfast (rolled oats or steel-cut are best) can help keep your heart healthy.
Reference: Whitehead, A., et al. (2014). Cholesterol-lowering effects of oat β-glucan: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 100(6), 1413-1421.
Pineapples Take Two Years to Grow and are Worth It
Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to pineapples. These tropical fruits take up to two years to reach maturity. Once ready, pineapples are a fantastic source of vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that helps with good digestion and reduced inflammation.
The vitamin C in pineapple supports the immune system and helps build collagen in the body. Collagen is the main structural protein in the body, providing strength to skin, muscles, bones and connective tissues.
Reference: Paull, R. E., & Chen, N. J. (2003). Postharvest physiology, handling and storage of pineapple. Tropical Agriculture, 80(2), 82-97.
Pumpkin Seeds Are a Natural Mood Booster
Pumpkin seeds are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is a precursor to serotonin, the “feel-good” natural brain chemical. Consuming pumpkin seeds can help improve your mood and promote a sense of well-being. These seeds also improve heart health and bladder health and are high in magnesium, vitamin e, zinc and selenium.
Reference: Pumpkin seeds may boost brain health in 4 crucial ways by Sarah Sloat https://www.inverse.com/mind-body/pumpkin-seeds Updated: Feb. 20, 2024
Fun and Health Go Hand-in-Hand
Isn’t nutrition fascinating? Each week, Nutrition Breakthroughs will bring you inspiring and surprising nutrition news and facts to help you on your journey to healthier eating. Stay tuned!
This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.
Struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep? You’re not alone. Insomnia, or difficulty sleeping, affects millions of people worldwide.
While stress and screen time are common culprits, physical conditions can also play a major role in keeping you awake. The good news? There are natural solutions for many causes of insomnia..
- Low Magnesium Levels
Magnesium is a mineral that helps relax your muscles and calm your nervous system. If your body is low in magnesium, you may experience restless sleep, muscle cramps, or frequent waking.
Solution: Eat magnesium-rich foods like bananas, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and spinach. You can also try a natural supplement which provides absorbable magnesium and calcium to promote deep sleep.
- Blood Sugar Imbalances
Blood sugar refers to the amount of sugar in your bloodstream. When it spikes or drops too quickly, it can wake you up in the middle of the night.
Solution: Avoid sugary snacks before bed, and eat a balanced dinner with protein, healthy fats, and fiber (such as salmon, avocado, and vegetables). A small handful of nuts before bedtime can help stabilize blood sugar while you sleep.
- Hormonal Changes
Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate many body functions, including sleep. Women experiencing menopause or PMS (premenstrual syndrome) often have sleep troubles due to changing estrogen and progesterone levels.
Solution: Drinking chamomile, mint or lavender tea before bed can help relax the body. Magnesium also plays a role in balancing hormones and enhancing melatonin, so adding magnesium-rich foods or supplements can make a difference.
- Excess Caffeine or Stimulants
Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate, stays in your system for hours and can interfere with sleep. Energy drinks and some medications (like decongestants) can also act as stimulants, making it harder to wind down at night.
Solution: Try cutting off caffeine at least 6–8 hours before bedtime. Herbal teas like rooibos or peppermint can be great caffeine-free alternatives.
- Chronic Pain or Inflammation
Conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia (tender points around the body), or back pain can make it uncomfortable to sleep. Inflammation (your body’s response to injury or stress) can also contribute to nighttime discomfort.
Solution: Anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and omega-3-rich fish can help. A warm bath with Epsom salts (which contain magnesium) can also relax muscles and ease pain before bedtime.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what’s keeping you up at night is the first step to solving it. By making small, natural changes — like improving your diet, managing stress, doing some regular, gentle exercise, and supporting your body’s natural rhythms — you can remedy the causes of insomnia and enjoy deep, restful sleep.
This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original, drug-free, calcium and magnesium-based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II.
Doctor P. P. of Houston, Texas says: “I had developed sleeping problems and took two different sleeping medications over the course of several weeks. When I discontinued them the insomnia came back even worse. I literally got about 20 hours of sleep in 6 weeks time. Sleep Minerals II was just what I needed. I’ve been taking it for a couple weeks and getting many hours of sleep a night. As a doctor I would definitely avoid prescribing sleeping drugs — I would recommend Sleep Minerals II.”
If you’ve ever felt like your legs are heavy, tight, or ballooning during a hot day, you’re not alone.
Swollen veins – especially in the legs- are a common issue that can flare up from heat, standing for long periods, poor circulation, or chronic conditions like varicose veins and chronic venous insufficiency.
While compression socks and elevation can help, what you eat can actually play a powerful role in calming those inflamed blood vessels. Let’s dive into the tastiest, science-backed foods that support healthy veins and reduce swelling.
1. Berries – Nature’s Tiny Anti-Inflammatories
Berries like blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries are packed with flavonoids –natural plant chemicals that help reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel strength. A 2016 review in Nutrients found that flavonoid-rich foods enhance blood flow and reduce leg swelling.
Plus, they’re full of antioxidants, compounds that protect your cells from damage caused by stress, heat, or injury. Antioxidants = the superheroes of your bloodstream.
Snack tip: Toss them into a smoothie, yogurt, or just eat them straight!
2. Leafy Greens – Full of Healthy Magnesium
Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are loaded with magnesium, a mineral that helps veins relax and blood circulate freely. Low magnesium levels have been linked to poor vein health and increased swelling.
These greens also pack vitamin C, which helps your body make collagen — a protein that strengthens vein walls.
Food Tip: Throw a handful in your eggs, soup, or smoothie.
3. Citrus Fruits – Vitamin C for the Win
Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are citrus superstars bursting with vitamin C and more flavonoids. A 2014 study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that citrus flavonoids helped improve circulation and reduce pain and swelling in patients with chronic venous disease.
Simple fix: Squeeze lemon into your water or add orange slices to your salad.
4. Fatty Fish – Omega-3s to the Rescue
Salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. A study in The Journal of Nutrition found that people who ate more omega-3s had healthier, more elastic veins.
Try this: Aim for two servings a week — grilled, baked, or in fish tacos.
Bonus: Quick Exercises to Help Your Veins
Food helps—but so does movement! Try these two simple moves daily:
- Heel Pumps: While sitting or standing, lift your heels and then your toes — 20 reps boosts circulation fast.
- Leg Lifts: Lie down and raise each leg for 10 seconds, 10 reps per leg.
- Walks around the block – A morning or evening stroll can do wonders for leg circulation and overall health.
Summary
Swollen veins can cramp your comfort, but nature’s got your back. By loading up on berries, greens, citrus, and omega-3-rich fish—and staying active — you can reduce inflammation, improve blood flow, and help your veins feel (and look) their best.
Remember: Your veins work hard — give them something good to work with!
Shared with You by Nutrition Breakthroughs:
This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.
Customer reviews say it best:
“The longer I take Sleep Minerals II, the better I sleep.” S. T.
“Nothing has helped me more than Sleep Minerals II.” T.M.
“I can’t express the relief of getting a good night’s sleep.” S.D.
Sources:
- Ghosh, D. & Scheepens, A. (2009). Nutrients – “Vascular benefits of berries”
- Martinez, M.J. et al. (2014). Phytotherapy Research – Citrus flavonoids & vein health
- Zhao, Y. et al. (2004). The Journal of Nutrition – Omega-3s and vascular function
The foods you choose each day have a direct impact on how you feel, your energy levels, and even how well you sleep. With so many diets and food trends, the key is to focus on balance and personalization.
The right foods for your health and lifestyle are the ones that nourish your body, fit into your daily routine, and leave you feeling better and more energetic.
The Foundation: Carbohydrates, Proteins, and Fats
Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are the three main nutrients your body relies on for energy and repair. Choosing the right sources makes a big difference.
- Healthy carbohydrates Vegetables and fruits are the healthiest carbs you can eat. Chose ones that you enjoy and eat at least twice as many veggies as fruits. Other good carbs include brown rice, potatoes, oats, quinoa, sweet potatoes, and beans.
- Desserts, white flour, white rice, sugar, and concentrated fruit juices can spike one’s blood sugar and lead to energy crashes. The whole-food carbs above can provide good fiber and steady energy to support digestion and health.
- Healthy proteins such as salmon and other fish, meat, chicken, turkey, eggs, natural cheeses, and Greek yogurt, help to build muscle, keep you full longer, and stabilize blood sugar.
- Healthy fats like avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and all types of nuts, are essential for brain health and hormone balance.
Adding these foods to your meals, one at a time, or eating them separately, can help you notice how each affects your energy and mood. A food journal is a useful tool to track which foods leave you feeling satisfied and which may cause adverse effects.
Diet and Sleep: Calcium and Magnesium
What you eat can also affect your sleep. Calcium helps the brain produce melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, while magnesium calms the nervous system and supports deeper rest. Foods like spinach, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds, yogurt, and cheese are excellent sources. (Stick to the veggies and seeds if you are dairy intolerant).
To see what works best for you, introduce some of the above mineral-rich foods, one at a time, and record how it impacts your sleep in a journal. Sleep mineral supplements can also be used. For these, its best to stick to a 2 to 1 ratio, meaning it contains twice as much calcium as magnesium in the supplement. Vitamin D and zinc are also good minerals for improving sleep.
Matching Your Diet to Your Lifestyle
Your daily routine often determines how easy it is to eat well. For those with busy lifestyles, portable whole-food snacks can prevent eating fast foods and having energy crashes. Good options include a banana with almond butter, apple slices with cheese, carrot sticks with hummus, or a handful of cashews or almonds. These balance protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep the energy steady.
Foods That Help or Hurt Energy
Everyone’s body responds differently to foods, which is why journaling is so valuable. Many people feel energized with colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and slow-digesting carbs like oats or brown rice. In contrast, sugary drinks, fried fast food, bakery items, and too much caffeine or alcohol often leave people sluggish or restless.
Putting It All Together
The best diet isn’t about strict rules but about learning which foods truly work for you. By balancing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, eating sleep-supportive minerals, keeping whole-food snacks on hand, and limiting energy-draining foods, you can design a way of eating that fits your lifestyle and helps you achieve the greatest health possible!
This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.
***** Wendy R. of Honolulu, Hawaii says: “My friends know that I’ve had chronic insomnia for a long time. Surprisingly, I received the Sleep Minerals II and began taking it and found this thing really works. In the past if I ever got a good night’s sleep I’d say ‘I slept like a baby’, but that’s the wrong comparison. Those little guys get up every two hours. I am actually beginning to sleep like an adult — a much-rested adult.”
References
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Calcium – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Updated March 24, 2022. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-HealthProfessional/
- National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium – Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. Updated March 24, 2022. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Magnesium-HealthProfessional/
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. The Nutrition Source: Healthy Snacks. 2021. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-snacks/
- Sleep Foundation. Nutrition and Sleep: How Diet Affects Rest. Updated June 24, 2022. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition
Vitamin D isn’t just another nutrient — it’s a powerful hormone your body makes when sunlight hits your skin. That’s why it’s often called the “sunshine vitamin.”
But here’s the challenge: Many people don’t get enough sunlight or vitamin D-rich foods, which makes deficiency very common. Studies suggest over 40% of Americans have low levels. (Forrest & Stuhldreher, 2011).
Why Vitamin D Is So Important
Vitamin D does more than support bone strength. It acts like a hormone, influencing multiple systems in the body.
- Bone and Muscle Health: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, two minerals essential for bone strength and muscle function. A lack of vitamin D increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures, especially in older adults [(Holick, 2007, New England Journal of Medicine)].
- Immune Function: Adequate vitamin D levels support the immune system, reducing the risk of respiratory infections and autoimmune conditions
- Mood and Brain Health: Research links vitamin D deficiency with a higher risk of depression and cognitive decline.
- Sleep Support:: Vitamin D is proven to provide better sleep quality (“The world epidemic of sleep disorders is linked to vitamin D deficiency” – Gominak & Stumpf, 2012).
Common Sources of Vitamin D
Since few foods naturally contain vitamin D, sunlight and supplementation often play the biggest role in maintaining healthy levels.
- Sunlight: The body can produce vitamin D after 10–30 minutes of midday sun exposure on the skin, depending on skin tone, location, and season [(Holick, 2007, NEJM)].
- Foods: Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk, orange juice, and cereals provide vitamin D.
- Supplements: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is more effective at raising blood levels than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol).
How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) varies by age:
- Adults under 70: 600 IU per day
- Adults over 70: 800 IU per day
- Some experts suggest higher levels (1,000–2,000 IU daily) may be beneficial for certain populations.
Blood tests are the best way to determine vitamin D status.
Risks of Deficiency
A lack of vitamin D can lead to:
- Rickets in children, a condition causing bone weakness and deformities
- Osteoporosis and fractures in adults
- Higher risk of infections, fatigue, and mood disorders
People at higher risk include those with darker skin, limited sun exposure, older adults, and individuals with digestive disorders that reduce nutrient absorption.
Key Nutrients That Work With Vitamin D
Vitamin D works best with these other nutrients:
- Magnesium – supports vitamin D metabolism.
- Vitamin A – balances fat-soluble vitamin intake (naturally found in cod liver oil, along with vitamin D).
Final Thoughts
Vitamin D is more than just a nutrient — it’s a foundation for bone health, immune strength, and mood improvement. If you’re not getting enough from sunlight and food, supplementation can help fill the gap.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get enough vitamin D from food alone?
A: It’s possible, but difficult. Fatty fish and fortified foods help, but most people still need sunlight or supplements.
Q: Is too much vitamin D harmful?
A: Yes. Excess vitamin D can cause calcium buildup in the blood, leading to kidney and heart issues. Stick to safe daily limits unless advised otherwise by a professional.
Q: Does sunscreen block vitamin D production?
A: Sunscreen can reduce vitamin D synthesis. Moderate sun exposure without burning usually provides enough.
Q: Should I take vitamin D2 or D3?
A: Vitamin D3 is generally more effective at raising blood levels, though both can be beneficial.
Nutrition Breakthroughs
This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D.
Suzanne G. of Tucson, Arizona says: “I am now taking two Sleep Mineral II capsules each night. I have had insomnia for most of my life and the longer I take Sleep Minerals, the better I sleep. The best thing is that I can now get back to sleep if I wake up in the night. It has given me such a sense of peace to know that I now can be well rested during the day.. I have tried many products on the market and this is the one that is gold. Thank you so much for producing a quality product!”
10 Steps to Read Food Labels Like a Pro and Avoid the BS – from Wake Up to the Results Blog
Posted on: October 1, 2025

Take a quick read of this guide and learn how to read food labels like a nutrition pro. Your health and wellbeing will thank you! This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.
Here’s an inspiring, short article. Not only have I experienced these benefits myself, but I have seen the recommendations confirmed in scientific literature.
This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.







