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“Grape juice cure” for obesity revealed in a
vision to mystic Edgar Cayce… WORKS!

“We have a friend who’s a light eater,” they told me. “As soon as it gets light, she eats! But seriously, Marty, we know how tough it can be to battle food cravings. If you can lick them, you don’t need to diet – and if you can’t, no diet will work!

“So we told our friend about the grape juice remedy recommended over 60 years ago by Edgar Cayce…”

Born in 1877, he was a world-acclaimed mystic. He’d go into a trance and utter all kinds of prophecies and pronouncements. Some of his odd-sounding remedies don’t work, but once in a while he hit one out of the park…

And this one’s a winner. As it was explained, “Since our friend started this grape juice regimen, she’s fitting into clothes she hasn’t worn in years!”

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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2-Day Migraine Cured in Minutes…
BY LEMON RIND?!

Works! Thousands saw it on TV!

“We were appearing on a TV program,” the Wilen Sisters told me. “The show host told us he’d been suffering from a huge headache for 2 entire days.

“Right on the air, he implored us to help him out. Well, he asked for it! We rubbed some lemon rind on his temples, then tied a cloth on his head, just like we tell readers in Bottom Line’s HEALING REMEDIES. He did look a little unusual! But at the end of our interview, he turned to the camera and said to everyone watching,

Worth a try, wouldn’t you say? Next time you’ve got a migraine that won’t quit, Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Arthritis Vanishes

so fast, “I am in a state of shock!”
Yet all this incredible new cure consists of is…

HUH? How can a recipe for gin-soaked raisins qualify as the arthritis home remedy of the century?

Hey, it wasn’t my decision, it’s yours! In the past few months, savvy Bottom Line readers like yourself have been writing to us in stunned amazement about their personal results from the Wilen Sisters’ famous raisin remedy…

What is this recipe? We’re printing a short version right here

• 1/2 kg. golden raisins
• gin (approximately 1 pint)
• glass bowl (Pyrex^® is good – crystal is bad)
• glass jar with lid

Spread the golden raisins evenly on the bottom of the glass bowl and pour enough gin over them to completely cover. Let them stay that way until all the gin is absorbed. It may take 5 to 7 days.

When the gin is absorbed, transfer the raisins to the jar, put the lid on and keep it closed. Do not refrigerate.

Daily intake of several gin soaked raisens is a must.

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Cut your cholesterol nearly in half — with avocado?

Yes, according to scientific studies, the  “avocado cure” really could lower your cholesterol up to 42%. It turns out avocados are positively packed with heart-healthy omega-9 fatty acids — and they’re rich in a compound called beta-sitosterol, which has been shown to lower cholesterol in 16 different studies!

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Many clinical studies have proven that nuts are rich sources of numerous nutrients that provide a lot of health benefits for the body.  According to the results of a past study conducted by researchers from Harvard University published at the Longevity journal, women were found to be 35% less likely to develop a heart attack if they consumed 142g of nuts a week, compared to those women who only consumed less than 28g a month.

Nuts contain a lot of fiber, protein, healthy fats, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. It all comes down to making the right choice as to what nuts will you be eating. Fortunately, there are a plethora of nuts that you can choose from. I am listing down my top choices of 8 nutritious nuts in order to help you attain better health.

Some of these healthy nuts are as follows:

• Almonds

Almonds are rich in Vitamin E, healthy monounsaturated fat, and antioxidants. Some people may think that almonds are too fatty for the body; however, studies have shown that it can actually help lower blood cholesterol levels. A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition last June 2010 stated that almonds can significantly help in reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. Almonds can also aid in weight loss, help prevent osteoporosis and also regulates high blood pressure levels.

• Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts are seeds of enormous trees called Bertholletia excelsa that grows in many parts of the world. These nuts are quite similar to macadamia nuts, but with more concentration of monounsaturated fats. Brazil nuts are rich in selenium that acts as a powerful antioxidant which may help in reducing the risk of cancer and heart diseases. It is also considered as a protein-packed snack and it contains all the necessary amino acids needed by the body. Magnesium and zinc that are found in Brazil nuts can help promote proper nerve and muscle function and strengthens the immune system. A recent study conducted at the University of Illinois reported that Brazil nuts may have the possibility of contributing to the prevention of breast cancer.

• Cashews

One of the most important benefits of cashew nuts is that it contains a lesser amount of fat. The fatty acids are made up of oleic acid, which is known to promote cardiovascular health and helps those people with cases of diabetes. Moreover, cashew nuts are rich in copper which produces an important hair and skin pigment called melanin. It also enhances the malleability of blood vessels. According to a new study, cashew nuts were found to reduce the risk of developing gallbladder stones. It also contains nutrients that aid in fighting carcinogens and heart diseases.

• Cedar Nuts

In native Siberia, cedar nuts are considered to be treasures. They contain 70% of the amino acids that the body needs. The antioxidant it contains can also aid in slowing down the aging process. Rich amounts of Vitamin A, B, D and tocopherols (E group vitamins) can be found in cedar nuts. It also contains a particular kind of Vitamin P that helps in keeping the arterial walls free from inflammation and plaque that may cause diseases such as atherosclerosis. More importantly, it reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol in the body.

• Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are seeds from the Australian trees called Macadamia ternifolia. Taking an average macadamia nut can add 18 calories to your diet. It would surprise you to know that macadamia nuts contain no cholesterol at all despite the fact that it contains high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, almost amounting to 86%, which aids in reducing blood cholesterol levels according to many studies. A study conducted at the Hawaii University reported that subjects who added macadamia nuts to their diet for one month were seen to have lower cholesterol levels. Therefore, researchers have recommended including macadamia nuts in one’s diet.

• Pistachios Nuts

Pistachio nuts are also called green almonds. . According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it is packed with fiber, vitamins and nutrients, and also contains more anti-oxidants than green tea. Pistachios are also rich sources of protein and fat, but mostly “good” unsaturated fats. Eating two handfuls of pistachios can even reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering LDL cholesterols.  This data is according to the research paper, The Cardiovascular Health Benefits of Pistachios written by researcher Sarah Gebauer from Pennsylvania State University last June 2007.

• Pecans

According to the USDA, pecans are good alternatives for protein in people who are on a plant based diet. These nuts are great sources of proteins and carbohydrates, which are energy producing nutrients, and it also contains no cholesterol. Pecans also contain concentrated amounts of sterol, known to lower levels of cholesterol. They are also good sources of heart healthy unsaturated fats according to the American Heart Association (AHA) and the US Dietary Guidelines. Pecans also give antioxidant protection to many diseases like diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Researchers from the New Mexico University State and Loma Linda University in California have proven that, when pecans are added to the daily diet, it can reduce risk of heart disease. It can also help in preventing breast cancer and in promoting weight control.

• Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts provide many benefits if included in a well-balanced diet. These nuts have many health benefits that aid in protection against diseases. Hazelnuts are known for their Vitamin E components that are essential in developing the muscles, especially that of the heart – one of the most important organs in the body. Other benefits include reducing risk factors that may lead to the development of cancer, and these nuts can also serve as a form of protection from anemia, a disorder of the blood. Another major benefit of hazelnuts is that they increase the production of red blood cells that aid in transporting oxygen to all parts of the body. This is because hazelnuts are rich in folic acids that are needed by both babies and adults. Like other nuts, they also contain good amounts of protein necessary for the production of muscle tissues.

Each individual nut present immeasurable amount of nutrients that are good for the body. However, it is recommended to take precautions when eating nuts. It is a given that people with allergy to nuts should not take them. It is also recommended to stick to the raw, unsalted type since all nutrients are still present.

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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GARLIC IS A NATURAL MUST HAVE FOR PREVENTION OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a form of a degenerative arthritis characterized by a functional or structural failure of one or more of the joints of the body. It is the most common form of arthritis and also a common disease among people all throughout the world in all population groups. However, several factors like age, gender, genetics, behavioral influences and ethnicity play a role in osteoarthritis risk.

It occurs equally among men and women; however, women tend to develop the symptoms of the disorder earlier than men. This often happens in women older than 45 years. Ligaments, which bind joints together, tend to become less elastic as people age, that’s why 70 to 90% of people 75 years old and up are the ones most commonly affected by osteoarthritis.

Even after years of research, no one has truly been able to define the root cause of OA. It still remains a mystery as to why particular joints are affected by osteoarthritis even if it has not suffered any injury. However, one primary cause of osteoarthritis is aging. As people age, the protein makeup of the cartilage of the joints slowly degenerate and deteriorate. In advanced cases, there is a total loss of the cartilage cushion between the bones of the joints that causes friction. Continuous use of worn joints can irritate the cartilage that causes joint pains and even limitation of joint mobility. Not only elderly people are in danger, but also athletes and laborers, may develop osteoarthritis in their later years.

In the United Kingdom, osteoarthritis is one of the most popular type of osteoarthritis in adults affecting almost 8 million people, where women are most prone to develop the condition compared to men. It affects the spine, knees and hips in the elderly and middle-aged people, causing pains and disability.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis vary from patient to patient. Daily activities and movements become more and more difficult as signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis develop. Some of them are as follows:

• Pain in the affected area
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Limitation of mobility (in severe cases)

The only difference of osteoarthritis among other types of arthritis is that it does not affect any organ of the body, only joint pains with repetitive use. There can be swelling and creaking of the affected joints (crepitus). However, for severe cases, the cartilage cushion is completely lost and pain during rest and in motion is experienced, therefore limiting a person’s mobility.

Garlic against hip osteoarthritis

A relationship between body weight and osteoarthritis has been previously recognized, and although it is not completely understood yet, studies have been conducted in order to find out if dietary patterns could probably have a certain effect on the development and prevention of the condition. A study of researchers at the King’s College London and University of East Anglia also found out that women who consume a diet rich in allium, such as vegetables in the form of leeks, onions, and garlic, have lower incidence of cases of hip osteoarthritis. The study was published in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders . Professor Ian Clark of University of East Anglia said that with further work and studies, this may open up a possibility of treating future cases of osteoarthritis with diet or dietary supplements.

The study of the research team involved looking at 1000 healthy female twins with no symptoms of osteoarthritis. They monitored the twins’ diet patterns, and later discovered early signs of osteoarthritis in the participants’ spine, knees and hips. They found out that those who consume a healthy diet, especially with allium rich garlic, had fewer incidence of hip osteoarthritis.

Furthermore, another research was conducted on the compounds in garlic and found out that it contains diallyl disulphide which decreases the amounts of enzymes that causes damage to the cartilage. The lead author of the Department of Twin Research at King’s College London, Dr. Frances Williams, said that these findings may pave the way for future osteoarthritis treatment as well as aid in the prevention of hip osteoarthritis. The study was funded by Arthritis Research UK, the Wellcome Trust and Dunhill Medical Trust.

Health Benefits of Garlic

We all think that garlic’s only use is to add flavor to our meals. It may be, but that’s not all. Garlic is widely known as a “cure-all” herb because of the wide range of health benefits it gives our body. While consuming garlic has been associated with foul breaths, the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages of garlic consumption.

Benefits of garlic are listed as follows:

• It can help in the normalization of body functions.
• Garlic can help stimulate white blood cells that strengthen the immune system.
• It also helps the person avoid cardiovascular diseases. It has been known for its effects on people with high blood pressure which is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack and diabetes.
• It helps in the treatment and management of patients with tuberculosis; as a lung decongestant; those with weak digestion; inhibits tumor-formation and platelets clumping; fights off influenza virus; prevent vaginal infection; in the management of nicotine poisoning as well as in diabetes mellitus.

Aside from pure garlic, garlic supplement may also do the job. The Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract™ is a great choice for garlic supplements since it gives the benefit of promoting cholesterol health and healthy cardiovascular function without the odor and discomforts that other garlic supplement brings. I am using Kyolic and I highly recommend the use of this brand.

Natural Means to Prevent Osteoarthritis

Everything in our body starts and ends with proper diet, nutrition and exercise. The best way to avoid osteoarthritis is by being cautious and careful of our daily diet and by keeping the body healthy and fit.

Exercising and taking proper diet, especially calcium, may reduce the risk of osteoarthritis. Make sure that the daily intake of food consists of the proper nutrients that one needs – not too much and not too less. It is observed that people who consume a healthy diet are less affected by this condition.

Taking proper precaution of the body while young, especially when indulging in hard physical activities, is the best way to avoid osteoarthritis. The daily intake of healthy foods must be coupled with the proper amount of exercise to help exercise the body’s muscles, without straining it too much. If continuous pain is experienced, consult the doctor as soon as possible, after all, early treatment and prevention is still the best way to prevent it from developing.

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Heart Tonic in the Produce section of your supermarket or greengrocer

Have you noticed the shift in colors at the produce aisle? Tawny-skinned cantaloupes have given way to dark-red pomegranates, which are at their peak now. Don’t save these apple-shaped fruits for festive centerpieces. There’s a substance (punicic acid) in their juicy seeds that is reputed to send triglycerides — dangerous fats in your blood vessels — packing.

True, even during a holiday blowout you’re not likely to eat the seeds of 24 pomegranates twice a day, which is roughly what it would take to match the pomegranate oil supplements that produced these benefits in one new study. But the more you munch, the better, since they also are reported to help fight infection, cool inflammation, keep your skin firm and springy, and dive-bomb cancer cells. So once the centerpiece has done its job, crack open your pomegranates and sprinkle those glossy, ruby-colored seeds on salads, mix them into yogurt, and add them to breakfast cereal  or oatmeal.

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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VITAMIN-D-THE MAGIC VITAMIN

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient needed by the body for proper and healthy functioning. Numerous processes inside the body require the presence of vitamin D in order to happen. Vitamin D comes in different forms and the most relevant forms for the human body are as vitamin D ergocalciferol and vitamin D cholecalciferol.

The natural source of vitamin D is the sun and it is produced in the skin of the vertebral species after being exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet B. There are also synthetic sources of vitamin D. In some countries, the fortification of vitamin D in selected food products is required; this may include margarine, flour and milk. Vitamin D can also come in pill form. Other natural sources of vitamin D are meat, eggs, mushrooms, and fish.

Vitamin D for Healthier Bones

There are numerous health benefits of vitamin D to the body. And on one hand, there are also several health risks for not getting enough vitamin D.

The most important and observable benefit of vitamin D is its role in bone growth and bone health. It is a well known fact that the skeletal system needs as much calcium as it can get in order to grow properly and maintain strength and healthy density. But drinking plenty of glasses of milk everyday or taking calcium supplements may not be enough to achieve the full health benefits of calcium. Vitamin D is an important reactant for the absorption of calcium. It promotes the absorption of calcium in the intestines and at the same time supports bone restoration. It also allows proper bone formation by maintaining the levels of phosphate and calcium inside the body.

Studies reveal that vitamin D deficiency is strongly linked to the development of osteoporosis since it results to a decrease in a person’s bone density.  Also, changes in metabolic processes which are important in maintaining a health skeletal system occur. The high-dosed supplementation of vitamin D along with high calcium diet was also observed to be a potential treatment for patients with osteoporosis. Other studies showed that increased supplementation of vitamin D can increase bone density and may result to a lower risk of developing illnesses associated with weakened bones that may lead to fractures, commonly of the hip.

Medical experts will also recommend sufficient involvement in outdoor physical activities in order to maintain and promote bone health. Proper exercise helps in strengthening the bones and at the same time exposes the body to healthy levels of UV-B in order for the body to naturally produce vitamin D. Diet is a secondary method of supplying the body with its much needed demand for vitamin D. Eating the right kind of foods and taking supplements will ensure a long term approach to keeping the bones at tiptop shape.

Boosting the Immune System

The second most important benefit of vitamin D to the human body is its role in keeping the immune system prepared and well-equipped against the attacks of pathogenic substances that enters the body. It serves to enhance the phagocytic activity of immune cells called macrophages. Vitamin D also increases the production of substances produced by the macrophages in order to combat fungi, viruses and bacteria.

According to a study conducted by a team of researchers, results have demonstrated how vitamin D deficiency results to the weakening of T cells, the body’s natural soldiers against infection and diseases. The head researcher, Professor Carsten Geisler from the University of Copenhagen, said that immune cells will remain dormant until they are activated. Bacteria and viruses will remain inside the body and continue to do damage until the immune cells detect their presence; this process requires vitamin D. The study also suggested that without vitamin D, the immune system will be less effective in fighting infection and diseases. They added that vitamin D can be used to develop new vaccines by assisting immune cells to better detect infection and combat the source.

The studies evaluating the importance of vitamin D to the immune system further puts emphasis to the importance of the vitamin as a dietary need.

Vitamin D Supplementation Guidelines

The established daily intake recommendation of vitamin D is 600 IU. But the Maine Medical Center Research Institute from Scarborough in Maine is suggesting an increase in vitamin D RDA. They are recommending a raise from 600 IU to 800 IU and above for people ages 1 to 70 in order to maintain and optimize bone health. The new guidelines set by the institute also suggested an increase in calcium RDA. For children aged 1 to 3 years, the institute suggested that daily intake should not be lower than 700 milligrams of calcium and 1000 milligrams for those 4 years to adolescent age; the dosage increases as the person grows older.

The new guidelines said that Canadians are getting sufficient dosage of calcium and vitamin D on a daily basis. But elderly people tend to get less of the nutrient including girls ages 9 to 18. Vitamin D is important to help in the absorption of calcium in the intestines and it also plays an important role in maintaining bone health.

Studies linking vitamin D deficiency to the development of diseases like diabetes, some types of cancer, and heart diseases are growing in numbers. Despite that, the evidences are limited to indicate causation. But further studies are expected to further establish facts and the medical experts are expecting the increase in vitamin D dietary requirement to demonstrate its benefits on an aggregate level. The committee members who recommended the increase in vitamin D RDA issued a disclaimer saying that taking the vitamin for more than 600 to 800 IU will not benefit the bones but may still benefit other bodily functions.

Sunlight Exposure for Vitamin D Synthesis

Exposing one’s self to the sun is one of the most effective ways of supplying the body with vitamin D. Sunlight provides the body with more vitamin D than some food sources. The skin has a natural mechanism that produces vitamin D and this is triggered by the exposure to UV rays. The synthesis of vitamin D is affected by sunscreens, geographic altitude and location and even the season. Light installations in homes will not give the body enough UV to synthesize vitamin D. Sun exposure may sound dangerous but the body will only need 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure twice a week in order to help in the production of vitamin D.

Souced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Astaxanthin Introduction

Astaxanthin is a natural occuring compound responsible for the distinctive pink coloration in sea food like salmon, crustaceans, crayfish, shrimp, krill, trout, and some microalgae.  The compound is a phytochemical carotenoid. But unlike other carotenoid found in fruits and plants, astaxanthin is not converted into vitamin A in the human body. Vitamin A will have a toxic effect to the body when taken in excessive amounts but astaxanthin does not produce this adverse effect. Different studies have revealed the potential health benefits of the compound to the body. And astaxanthin demonstrates strong antioxidant property which was found to be 500 times stronger than vitamin E.

The biggest natural source of astaxanthin is haematococcus pluvialis, a microalgae that produces the most amount of astaxanthin in nature. But the compound can also be synthesized but is not recommended for human consumption due to its content of stereoisomers. A kilo of naturally produced astaxanthin is worth around $7000 in the market.

Astaxanthin is usually used as a feed supplement for animals and seafood. The compound is also used to enhance the color of salmon and make it look pinker. But astaxanthin used for this purpose is usually made synthetically from petrochemicals. On the other hand, the production of astaxanthin for human consumption is derived from natural sources, usually from microalgae. It is used as a food supplement due to its powerful antioxidant property. It has also been found to be beneficial against neurodegenerative, inflammatory, immune, and cardiovascular diseases. The compound has also exerted its effects in lowering the risk of developing cancer. The production and use of astaxanthin as a food supplement and aquaculture feed is regulated in the US by the Food and Drug Authority.

A Summary of the Potential Health Benefits of Astaxanthin

A new review on the potential health benefits of astaxanthin shows that the compound can reduce the risk of metabolic syndromes and improve skin health. Researchers from the Molecular Nutrition and Food Research in China conducted a series of controlled clinical studies evaluating the health benefits of astaxanthin.

The industry of astaxanthin both as a fish and animal feed and as food supplement is expected to have an annual turnover of $200 million by 2015. The compound is also used on fish products to enhance its pink color and make them more salable. The cost of astaxanthin for human consumption is estimated to be worth around $35 to 60 million according to a private firm Frost and Sullivan.

Astaxanthin food supplements are primarily used to improve skin and eye health. But the compound has also been found to improve joint health and prevent diseases caused by oxidative stress; the antioxidant property of astaxanthin has been found to be 500 times stronger than vitamin E according to clinical studies.

The review on the health benefits of astaxanthin concluded that the protective benefits of the compound against diseases are most likely to be caused by its antioxidant mechanism that prevents cellular damage caused by oxidative stress. Astaxanthin also inhibits the production of inflammatory substances like cytokines and improve the cells sensitivity and response to insulin.

The other health benefits of astaxanthin includes the reduction of damaged and abnormal cells in the liver, protection against eye damage caused by UV rays, alleviation from stress, prevention of neurodegenerative diseases like ALS, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease and protection against the development of cancer cells in the breast, uterus, bladder, bowels, oral cavity and the tongue. Astaxanthin has also been found to boost the immune system by stimulating the production of more antibodies and help the body better protect itself against diseases.

Other Clinical Studies on the Health Benefits of Astaxanthin

Different studies on the potential health benefits of astaxanthin against cancer have been performed on laboratory animals like rats. One study showed that astaxanthin protected mice from the carcinogenesis of the urinary bladder. The study used two groups of mice fed with carcinogens for a period of 20 weeks. The second group was fed with astaxanthin for another period of 20 weeks; the first group did not receive astaxanthin supplementation. The researchers observed that the control group has 42 percent incidence of bladder carcinoma while the second group only had 18 percent incidence rate. The study also evaluated the effects of astaxanthin on oral and colon cancer prevention. And similar to their first observation, there was also a significant reduction in cancer risk.

Another study showed that astaxanthin is effective in preventing ameliorating retinal injury and the degeneration of photoreceptors due to ageing. This proves the eye health benefits of astaxanthin. A different study concluded that astaxanthin is useful in preventing and treating neuronal damage linked to muscular degeneration brought by senility. The researchers also suggested that the compound has potential benefits against Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and in treating ischemic reperfusion injury, other injuries in the central nervous system and the spinal cord.

Sources, Safety and Dosage

A study on the recommendable dietary dosage of astaxanthin in order to obtain its health benefits without subjecting the body to potential toxicity ranges from 4 to 16 milligrams a day depending on the person’s body type. It is not an essential nutrient but the increased intake of the compound has been found to have numerous health benefits to the body. A natural source of astaxanthin is salmon which contains approximately 1 milligram per serving but pacific salmon may contain around 4 to 5 milligrams. Astaxanthin has a very low level of toxicity but this may become dangerous in young children, nursing and pregnant women and individuals with kidney and liver disease.

Astaxanthin as Antioxidant

Well-funded studies have been conducted in different countries to determine the potential health benefits of natural substances against oxidative stress. The damage of cells caused by free radicals had been linked to several diseases including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Carotenoids, the natural pigmentation in fruits and plants and plants, have shown significant effects against oxidative stress. Astaxanthin being a carotenoid also demonstrates this value. But further study is still needed to establish the health benefits of astaxanthin.

Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha

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Indulge in that rich decadant cocoa delight.

You must deserve that chocolate bar after a job well done. But you don’t have to feel guilty and lose sleep over the fact that you gave in to your cravings.  The results of a new study have shown that eating dark chocolate products that are rich in flavanols may help alleviate the symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

What is Chronic Fatigue Syndrome?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CFS is described as a condition which causes a person to experience extreme fatigue – not just the simple type where the feeling of tiredness can be relieved after one takes a rest. Chronic fatigue syndrome lasts for a long time, and it starts to limit a person’s ability to do ordinary activities of daily living. When this happens, the quality of life of the individual is already affected.

The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome is still unknown.  Although it is most commonly associated with women ages 40 to 50 years old, anybody can still have CFS. Because the cause is unknown, cure is not available too.  The primary goal of treatment though, is to help alleviate the symptoms linked to CFS. Although pharmaceutical agents are available to deal with the symptoms, it is emphasized that there are other natural means to help ease pain, promote sleep, and relieve anxiety.

The following are the most common symptoms found in people diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome:

• Tenderness in the lymph nodes (pain upon palpation)
• Sore throat
• Sleep problems
• Arthralgia (painful joints)
• Headaches
• Difficulty in concentration
• Muscle pain
• Poor memory

An Assessment of the Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

In an attempt to determine the health benefits of eating dark chocolates for people with chronic fatigue syndrome, researchers coming from England’s University of Hull conducted a double-blind, randomized, pilot crossover small-scale study involving ten individuals. Four women and four men, whose mean age was 52 years, participated in the study. All of the participants were diagnosed to have chronic fatigue syndrome, as measured with the use of the Chalder Fatigue Scale.

The study lasted for eight weeks and within that period, the participants were divided into two groups.  One group received polyphenol-rich chocolate, and the other group received iso-calorific chocolate. The participants were asked to eat a 15 gram chocolate bar, which contains 85 percent of cocoa, three times each day.  No changes in their daily diet were made. After a two-week break, the participants were asked to substitute their chocolate with one that does not contain cocoa, but still tasted the same.  Nestlé PTC York in the United Kingdom provided the chocolates used in the study.

What the Study Revealed

The results of the study indicated that participants who consumed polyphenol-rich dark chocolate exhibited improvement of symptoms of CFS as compared to those who received chocolate with low polyphenol levels. Once again, the fatigue levels of the participants were measured using the Chalder Fatigue Scale where the polyphenol-rich intervention brought an improvement in scores, while the low polyphenol intervention’s scores deteriorated.

It was also noted that none of the participants gained extra weight despite eating an extra of 245 calories per day for a period of eight weeks.

The authors of the study, led by Professor Steve Atkin from Hull York Medical School, concluded that the consumption of 15 grams of high cocoa polyphenol-rich chocolate for three times a day over an eight-week period exerts favourable effect when it comes to improving the residual function and fatigue levels in subjects diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome, as compared to consuming chocolate with low polyphenol and low cocoa content.

The results of the study were published in the Nutrition Journal.

The Explanation

The credit is given to flavanols – natural compounds that are abundantly found in dark chocolate. Medical experts have speculated that the health benefits that a person obtains from eating dark chocolate is due to the flavanols action of shielding, or protecting, the cells from the damage brought about by oxidative stress.

However, the authors of the study issued a word of caution:  do things in moderation.  Just because eating dark chocolate is said to bring health benefits does not mean one should gorge on chocolate.  The authors believe that there is a need to conduct more research studies – on a larger scale – in order to fully substantiate their findings and before chocolate is prescribed as a part of the diet plan of people with chronic fatigue syndrome.

The Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

• Chocolate comes from cacao which is said to contain agents that help fight off bacteria. So naturally, the presence of these antibacterial agents in cacao will help fight the development of tooth decay.  You may raise your eyebrows on this one which is perfectly understandable.  After all, your dentist must have told you to avoid eating chocolates.  What your dentist is actually referring to are milk chocolates.  Milk chocolates contain very high amounts of sugar, and this is the cause of tooth decay.  Keep this in mind:  the higher the cacao content of the chocolate, the more benefits it gives.
• Chocolates are good for the heart.  A study conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania revealed that eating dark chocolates on a regular basis was associated with a lowered risk of atherosclerosis, hospitalization due to heart diseases and untimely death.
• Dark chocolate contains carbohydrates which produces an increase in the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonins are neurotransmitters that directly affect the mood of a person.  Increased levels of serotonin result to a better sense of well-being.
• The antioxidants in dark chocolate helps the body fight off free-radicals.  Free-radicals can cause harm by damaging the cells and it also causes premature aging.
• The cocoa butter found in dark chocolate contains the mono-unsaturated fat oleic acid which helps raise the levels of HDL, or good cholesterol.
• Flavonoids help maintain healthy blood vessels, thereby keeping blood pressure at bay
• Sourced & published by Henry Sapiecha
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