Propolis Benefits and Cancer

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Bee Propolis, is a sticky resin that seeps from the buds of some trees and oozes from the bark of other trees, chiefly conifers. The chemical composition of propolis depends on the type of plants accessible to the bees. Approximately 200 different compounds have been identified so far in propolis. Flavonoids are abundant, including apigenin, kaempferol, galangin, luteolin, quercetin, pinocembrin and pinostrobin. The composition of the propolis depends on the botanical ecology of each area and can still suffer influence of the genetic variety of the queens.

Propolis Benefits

General medicinal uses of propolis include treatment of the cardiovascular and blood systems, dental care, dermatology, immune system support and improvement, cancer, digestive tracts, liver protection and support and many others.

Antibiotic

Preliminary studies suggest  may be active against viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms when applied topically. Bee propolis has been shown to fight bacterial strains that have become resistant to chemical antibiotics. The concentrations of flavonoids seem to be responsible for the important antibiotic effects. bee propolis has the ability to directly destroy  bacteria, viruses, fungi and penicillin-resistant staphylococcus. Australian scientists, showed that propolis increases the effectiveness of penicillin or other antibiotics from 10 to 100 folds. Used as mouthwash, it may reduce bacteria in the mouth, reduce the formation of plaque and relieve dental pain and gum inflammation.

Herpes

Herpes, is the name of a group of viruses that cause painful blisters and sores. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses. Type 2 (HSV-2 ) causes genital herpes, while Type 1 (HSV-1) causes cold sores and sometimes genital herpes. Genital herpes affects the genitals or anal area. Oral herpes causes cold sores around the mouth or face. Drugs including Famvir, Valtrex and Zovirax, are among the medications used to treat the symptoms of herpes. Test tube studies show it can stop HSV-2  and HSV-1 from reproducing. Applying a 3% propolis cream might improve healing of recurrent genital lesions caused by herpes simplex virus type 2. In a study, 90 men and women  with recurrent genital HSV2 were divided into 2 groups to compare the healing ability of propolis ointment versus acyclovir ointment and placebo. After 10 days, 80 % of patients in the propolis group had healed versus 47 % in the acyclovir group and 40 % in the placebo group. The topical  propolis cream has produced better results than Zovirax cream, a medication usually prescribed to treat genital herpes outbreaks.

Ulcers

In a study 34 patients with chronic ulcers were given extracts of propolis daily for 2 weeks. The results were impressive, with 28 patients completely improvement and 6 cases dramatically improving. In a study involving 294 patients; found that 90% of 108 ulcer patients given propolis were free of symptoms after 2 weeks, compared to only 55% of 186 standard treated patients.

Burns

Studies indicate that it may be effective in treating skin burns. Ointments made of propolis are as effective as the medically prescribed burn creams. Research finds, comparable to silver sulfadiazine in treating second-degree burns. Propolis has been shown to stimulate different enzyme systems, cell metabolism, circulation and collagen formation, as well as improve the healing of burn wounds.

Warts

Common warts are local growths in the skin that are caused by human papillomavirus infection. The virus causes keratin, a hard protein in the epidermis to grow too fast. Are usually found singly or in clusters in your skin. As reported in the International Journal of Dermatology in November of 2009, scientists identified that propolis shows strong activity against warts. In a 3-month study, 135 patients with different types of warts received oral propolis, echinacea, or placebo. In patients with common warts treated with propolis, cure was achieved in 75% and 73% of patients, respectively. The scientists conclude that propolis is an effective and safe immunomodulating therapy for common warts.

Antiinflammatory

CAPE (Caffeic acid phenethyl ester), an active component of propolis, has been proven to have anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties. There are reports in the literature, of the usage with success, of ethanolic extracts of propolis in lab studies. It was also observed that caffeic acid phenyl ester are strong LOX inhibitors, suppressing leukotriene production by peritoneal macrophages. In several models in vitro, propolis presented an inhibition of the plaquetary aggregation and of the eicosanoid synthesis, suggesting that it possesses a powerful anti-inflammatory activity.

Immune System

Propolis enhances the immune system. There are two effect of propolis. Seem to inhibit cellular growth.  Also, they can increase the  presence of certain white immune cells like T-lymphocytes, increasing hydrogen peroxide production without any simultaneous and  damaging nitrite  production, which usually occurs with macrophage activity. In a article published in 2007 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, reported that propolis increased the activity of macrophages and natural killer cells and the production of antibodies. Another way in which propolis aids the immune system is its ability to strengthen phagocyte feature. Phagocytes are the white blood cells that protect the body by ingesting  harmful foreign particles, bacteria, and dead or dying cells.

Cancer

Since bee propolis contains anti-cancer ingredients caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and artepillin C, both of which block the oncogenic PAK1 signaling pathways, its possible therapeutic effects on NF tumors were explored in vivo. The PAK 1 is understood to be responsible for the activation of molecules fostering cellular division, the survival of cancer cells, the invasion of the body by the tumor and the development of blood vessels within the tumor. The compound caffeic acid phenethyl ester found in propolis is the important cancer-suppressing ingredient. This compound was found to induce apoptosis of human pancreatic cancer cells and colon cancer cells. İnhibited the growth of C6 glioma cells in vitro and in vivo. Where CAPE (Caffeic acid phenethyl ester) was taken orally by mice with lung tumours, a reduction of tumour size of 50 % was noted.  In a study conducted in Germany, caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) repressed the growth of neurofibromatosis tumors in laboratory. Artepillin C ;  has been isolated from propolis and has been shown to have cytotoxic effect on human lung cancer cells, human gastric carcinoma cells and mouse colon carcinoma cells in vitro. In a survey conducted in 2007 observed a significant  reduction in the emergence of new blood vessels within the tumor in mice treated orally with Artepillin C. Shown that intratumoral injections of 500 mgs of Artepillin C produced apoptosis and an increase in immune defenses. More than 70% of cancers are PAK1 dependant and Artepillin C appears to be a very  strong blocking agent of PAK1.

Propolis Dosage

The recommended dosage is 500 mg once or twice each day. For herpes : A 3% propolis cream applied to the blisters 4 times daily. dental health; A dose of 10 milliliters of 0.2% to 10% propolis ethanol extract mouthwash  has been used once or twice daily for dental plaque.

Propolis Side Effects

Reports of irritation in and around the mouth have occurred after use of propolis lozenges or extract taken by mouth. In some people, use of propolis also can lead to to side effects, such as swelling, fluid collection, redness, burning and fever. Anaphylactic shock might occur to those with extreme allergies.

Food with Magnesium

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The main task of magnesium is enzyme activation. Is required to make more than 300 different enzymes and to send messages along the nerves. The cell mitochondria require magnesium in order to synthesize adenosine triphosphate, the all-important molecule that provides energy for metabolic functions. Other proteins, like those required to produce  RNA and DNA , are also magnesium-dependent. The metabolism of fats and carbohydrates to produce energy requires numerous magnesium-dependent chemical reactions. This mineral is often called the anti-stress mineral because it has a calming effect when taken. Is important for normal heartbeat and nerve transmission. Magnesium is required for the active transport of ions like  calcium and potassium across cell membranes. Therefore, magnesium affects the conduction of nerve impulses, muscle contraction, and normal heart rhythm. Magnesium helps signal muscles to contract and relax. Helps maintain normal levels of calcium, potassium, phosphorus, adrenaline and insulin, and keeps the bones strong and the heart healthy.

The human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium. Approximately 50 percent of total magnesium is found in bone. The other half is predominantly found in the cells of body tissues and organs. Only 1 percent of magnesium is found in blood. This magnesium concentration must be kept at a constant level to keep your body functioning properly. The normal blood levels for magnesium ranges from 1.5  to 2.5 mEq/L. The RDA for magnesium is about 310 mg per day for women and 420 mg per day for men.

Causes of Magnesium Deficiency

Several gastrointestinal diseases, pancreatitis, diabetes, hyperthyroidism and kidney disease can lead to magnesium deficiency. Some drugs may result in magnesium, deficiency including  diuretics, antibiotics, and medications used to treat cancer. Excessive salt, coffee, or alcohol, as well as heavy menstrual periods, over sweating, and prolonged stress can also lower magnesium levels.

Symptoms of Magnesium Deficiency

Insomnia, weakness, loss of appetite, irritability, anxiety, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, nail growth, muscle spasm, restless leg syndrome and poor coordination. Important magnesium deficiency can result in low levels of calcium in the blood.

Food with Magnesium

High Magnesium Foods List; Green leafy vegetables, whole grains, legumes, almonds, squash seeds, pine nuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax seeds, raisins, molasses, oysters, halibut, dairy products, tofu, brown rice, lima beans, split peas, lentils, black-eyed peas, bean sprouts, wheat and oat bran, spinach, lettuce, beet greens, broccoli. Other good dietary sources of this mineral; oatmeal and oat flour, soybean flour, bananas, avocados, figs, baked potatoes with skin, cocoa powder, chocolate, kelp. Because magnesium is part of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants, green leafy vegetables are rich in this mineral. Unrefined grains also have high magnesium content. Nearly 85% of the magnesium is lost when whole grains are refined to white flour. Harder water usually has a higher concentration of magnesium salts. Supplemental forms of magnesium are available as magnesium gluconate, magnesium oxide, magnesium chloride, and magnesium citrate salts, as well as a number of amino acid chelates, including magnesium aspartate.

Magnesium Research

Scientific researchs indicate that supplementing with magnesium may help prevent asthma, migraine, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.

Asthma

Asthma is a disease where the bronchial passages go into spasm and interfere with normal breathing. Magnesium sulfate is used as a therapy for asthma. A study from Brown University showed pronounced improvement in children with asthma who were treated with intravenous magnesium. Effects of magnesium include relaxing the airways, acting as a bronchodilator for asthma.

Migraine

Individuals who suffer from recurrent migraine headaches have lower intracellular magnesium levels than patients who do not experience migraines. Magnesium was found to reduce the frequency, intensity and length of migraines or headaches in many studies. 200 mg to 600 mg daily is  used to help prevent migraine headaches. Magnesium and Migraines

Preeclampsia-Eclampsia

Magnesium, given in the hospital intravenously, is the therapy of effective to prevent or treat seizures associated with eclampsia or to prevent complications from preeclampsia. Preeclampsia-eclampsia is a disease that is unique to pregnancy and may occur anytime after 20 weeks of pregnancy through 6 weeks following birth.

Kidney Stones

When combined with vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) it helps to reduce and dissolve calcium phosphate stones. Jonathan Wright, recommends  100 milligrams of vitamin B6, and 300 milligrams of magnesium citrate, daily.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Intravenous magnesium application has been shown to be effective in reducing mortality in thombolysis-ineligible patients with acute myocardial infarction. Magnesium helps maintain a normal heart rhythm and is sometimes given intravenously to reduce the chance of atrial fibrillation and cardiac arrhythmia. Intravenous magnesium, when given as soon as possible after a heart attack, decreases death rate.

High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is one of the major vascular disorders that magnesium can help. High blood pressure,defined as having a systolic and diastolic blood pressure  greater than 140 and 90 mmHg, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Magnesium is an essential micronutrient in maintaining suppleness in the walls of blood vessels. In twelve randomized controlled trials, patients receiving magnesium supplements did not have a significantly reduction in systolic blood pressure. However they had a significant reduction in their diastolic blood pressure.

Diabetes

Inadequate blood levels of magnesium may prohibit the release of insulin from the pancreas. Therefore, regulation of blood glucose levels is disrupted and blood glucose rises abnormally. Magnesium supplementation may help diabetics to maintain adequate magnesium levels as well as improve glucose tolerance. Studies have shown that for every 100 mg of magnesium, the risks of diabetes is reduced by 15 percent. Magnesium supplementation may help overweight individuals who have become insulin resistant improve their condition and avoid type 2 diabetes, according to a  study from German researchers.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a disease characterized by weak bones. Magnesium, along with calcium and Vitamin D can prevent the development of osteoporosis. Since magnesium works closely with calcium, it is necessary  to have an appropriate level of both minerals in order for them to be effective. If you take 1000 mg of calcium, you should also take 500 mg of magnesium. This is to be taken in two divided doses with Vitamin D 400 IU with each Calcium dose, this helps absorption of both magnesium and calcium. Thirty-one woman suffering from osteoporosis with documented deficiency in magnesium were given a magnesium supplement. After 1 year 71 % of the  patients had increased bone density by up to 8 percent, and the improvement remained unchanged for 2 years.

Sleep Problems

Magnesium works in combination with the calcium to help our muscles relax and in this way allows us to have a better night’s sleep. Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. In addition, magnesium suppresses the release of catecholamines, which stimulate activity in the sympathetic nerves. Studies show a lack of magnesium can alter electrical activity in the brain, causing agitated sleep and frequent awakenings. A article published  in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine confirms the effects of magnesium deficiency on insomnia. Important to note that a balanced ratio of magnesium and calcium is important to overall health, and these two minerals should be taken together for best effects.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders. The exact cause is unknown. However inherited genetic factors are likely responsible. In addition to genetics, scientists are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may have three basic problems, they can’t pay attention, they are hyperactive, they act on impulse. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have low magnesium levels than the average child.In one trial, 50 ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) children with low magnesium were given 200 mg of magnesium a day for nearly 6 months. When compared with 25 other magnesium-deficient ADHD children, those that were given magnesium supplementation appeared to experience a decrease in hyperactive behavior. In one  study of 75 magnesium-deficient children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, those who received magnesium supplements showed an improvement in behavior compared to those who did not receive the supplements. Russian doctors used a combination of  magnesium and  vitamin B6 to treat children aged from 6 to 12 with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Vitamin B6 in the appropriate dose helps determine how much magnesium absorbs into cells.

Ashwagandha Dosage Benefits and Side Effects

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Ashwagandha is a dietary supplement known by the botanical name withania somnifera. Also known as Indian ginseng, this powerful herb used in Ayurvedic medicine as a way similar to the use of ginseng in traditional Chinese medicine. Alkaloids, saponins, steroidal lactones and withanolides are thought to be the biologically active components of ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is often compared to Asian ginseng which contain molecules like withanoloids called ginsenosides.

Ashwagandha Benefits

Ashwagandha has good impressive adaptogenic properties. Adaptogens support the ability of an organism to cope with stress and thereby conserve energy. According to a large of research, components in ashwagandha possess tonic, anti-inflammatory, immune enhancing aphrodisiac anxiety relieving and nerve sedative properties. Ashwagandha is rich in antioxidants, such as catalase, glutathione and superoxide dismutase. This antioxidant effect partly explains its other effects like anti-aging, anti-stress, anti-inflammatory and cognition facilitation. Ashwagandha is known to have a positive effect on hormones and it helps the thyroid gland to increase the secretion of the hormone. The studies do not reveal selectively its effect on T3 or T4, but the levels of both T3 and T4 go up with high quality supplementation of ashwagandha.

Immune System

Ashwagandha increases the count of white blood cells and prepares the body to produce antigens against various infections and allergies. A number of studies have shown significant increases in white blood cell counts and other measures of strengthened immunity in rodents given ashwagandha or certain chemicals extracted from the herb. Animal studies published in 1994 confirmed that ashwagandha’s withanolides stimulate lymphocytes, which are immune system cells. In a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study in healthy men aged 50-59 years, red blood cell counts and hemoglobin level were significantly increased.

Cancer

Ashwagandha is reported to have anti-carcinogenic effects in animal and cell cultures by decreasing the expression of nuclear factor-kappaB, suppressing intercellular tumor necrosis factor and potentiating apoptotic signalling in cancerous cell lines. Published in 2007, another study on human cells shows that ashwagandha may inhibit tumor growth without harming normal cells. In another study, orally administered ashwagandha extract significantly inhibited experimentally induced stomach cancer in laboratory animals. A recent analysis showed that ashwagandha extract inhibit the growth of human breast, lung, and colon cancer cell lines in the laboratory. Other studies on mice have found that administering an alcohol extract of Ashwagandha caused the total tumor remission in 25% of animals and more than 50% reversal of tumor growth in 63% of the animals.

Inflammation

An application of the leaves when applied on an inflammation acts as anti inflammatory. Several withanolides exert selective COX-2 enzyme inhibition and withania has been found to decrease alpha-2-macroglobulin, a liver-synthesised plasma protein that increases during inflammation. Findings of a more up-to-date study published in the October 2004 issue of the ‘Journal of Clinical Rheumatology‘ show that ashwagandha reduces knee pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Animal studies have found that naturally occurring steroids in ashwaganda are more potent than treatment with the synthetic steroid hydrocortisone for controlling inflammation.

Anxiety

Latest researches reveal that Ashwagandha, if given in proper dose, can restore the neurotransmitters and hence can be useful in various mental disorders. A 2009 randomized controlled clinical trial found that ashwagandha helps to treat anxiety. In a trial, 30 patients suffering from anxiety neurosis were administered a dose of 40 ml per day for a month. The research concluded that most of anxiety symptoms, panic attacks and phobia were significantly relieved. Oral administration of ashwagandha for 5 days suggested anxiety-relieving effects similar to those achieved by the anti-anxiety drug lorazepam (Ativan), and antidepressant effects similar to those of the prescription antidepressant drug imipramine (Tofranil). A study done at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center indicated that extracts of Ashwagandha produce GABA-like activity, which may account for the herb’s anti-anxiety effects.

Nerves and Memory

Ashwagandha has been shown to support the regeneration and reconstruction of nerve cells and synapses. In one human clinical study, ashwagandha improves overall mental aptitude and reaction time. Ashwagandha could prevent memory deficit and cognitive impairment by inhibiting degeneration of neurons and repairing the damaged neurons. Experimental studies suggest that Ashwagandha root extract might help to reconstruct the damaged neuronal network. Several animal studies indicate the potential for protection of neurons, including protection from neuronal injury in Parkinson’s disease  and promotion of dendrite formation.

Sexual Performance

Research shows that ashwagandha has an aphrodisiac effect and improves sexual performance. The root extract is used in impairment in libido, sexual performance, vigor, and penile erectile dysfunction. Its most active compounds, alkaloids and withanoloids enhance longevity and possess sexually stimulating properties. One double-blind clinical trial found that a dose of 3 g taken daily for 1 year improved the sexual performance of 71.4% of healthy aging males.

Ashwagandha Dosage

Take 1-2 capsules of Ashwagandha twice a day, after meals. Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend 500 to 2000 milligrams of ashwagandha root powder daily.

Side Effects

Side effects large doses of Ashwagandha can cause abdominal discomfort and diarrhea. May potentiate the sedative effect of barbiturates. In extremely large doses, ashwagandha has been reported to induce abortions in animals. Taking ashwagandha with thyroid hormone pills might cause too much thyroid hormone in the body, and increase the effects and side effects of thyroid hormone. No one with an autoimmune disease should use the product without express consent from their doctor.

Pineapple Benefits and Facts

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Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is one of the world’s most unique and exotic tropical fruits. The tough, waxy rind is green, brown, and yellow in color with a scale-like appearance. Pineapple juice contains calcium, potassium, manganese, vitamin C. It is also a rich source of vitamin, B1, vitamin B6, copper and dietary fiber.

Pineapple Benefits

Pineapple juice is a great source to find a daily requirement of Vitamin C. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and prevents the development of illnesses and infections by stimulating the production and function of white blood cells. Mononuclear phagocytes, neutrophils, and lymphocytes accumulate vitamin C to high concentrations, which can protect these cell types from oxidative damage. Collagen is the main structural protein in the body required for maintaining the integrity of blood vessels, skin, organs and bones. The synthesis of collagen, for which vitamin C is essential, proceeds in the body as one of its major manufacturing enterprises Also, pineapple juice  reduces periodontal disease and gingivitis. A cup of pineapple contains approximately 80 mg of vitamin C.

Pineapple juice good is an source the trace mineral manganese, which  includes an essential cofactor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and antioxidant protection. Manganese is responsible for bone formation, healing wounds, and keeping skin healthy. One cup of pineapple juice provides 70% of the daily recommended amount of manganese.

Bromelain are a family of sulfhydryl proteolytic enzymes derived from the stem and juice of the pineapple plant. The proteolytic enzyme, bromelain, was formerly derived from pineapple juice. Now it is gained from the mature plant stems salvaged when fields are being cleared.  Helps in reducing the swelling in the inflammatory conditions like gout, arthritis and acute sinusitis. Bromelain is an enzyme capable of enhancing digestion,  reducing or eliminating nausea, gastric reflux, and other symptoms that accompany non-digestion of foods. Fresh pineapple juice, has three times the amount of bromelain as canned pineapple.

Anti-Inflammatory

Bromelain is considered  strong anti-inflammatory. Laboratory evidence suggests that bromelain may be helpful in treating ulcerative colitis. Bromelain enzyme inhibits formation of prostaglandin E2, a chemical leading to inflammation, and it helps to stimulate the production of prostaglandin E1, an antiinflammatory chemical. Research reported in 2002 issue of Phytomedicine found that doses of both 200 and 400 mg of bromelain daily helped reduce knee pain in adults. Participants reported their results via questionnaires that included indicators of joint health as well as psychological well-being. The results of a clinical study published in 2004 in Clinical Rheumatology also found that bromelain enzyme, when combined with rutosid and trypsin,  was as effective as dicolfenac in alleviating symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee.

Sinusitis, Bronchitis and Asthma

Bromelain enzyme has a mucus-thinning action and helps to reduce phlegm in respiratory conditions such as sinusitis, bronchitis and asthma. The German Commission E recommends the use of bromelain as a digestive aid, a treatment for traumatic injuries and joint inflammation and a treatment for sinusitis and bronchitis. In a double-blind study, 48 patients to  sinusitis received bromelain or placebo for 6 days.  All patients were placed on standard  therapy for sinusitis, which included antihistamines, analgesics, and antibiotics. At the end of study, inflammation was reduced in 83% of those taking bromelain compared to 52% of the placebo group. When 124 hospital patients with chronic bronchitis or pneumonia were given bromelain enzyme, there was a significant reduction in the volume and purulence of their sputum, enabling it to be more easily expelled by the respiratory tract.

Colitis

Colitis refers to the inflammation or swelling of the colon or large intestine. It’s a painful condition that causes abdominal bloating and cramping, diarrhea and nausea. Other forms of colitis may also come with fever, chills and other kinds of associated infections. The results of an animal study, published in 2010 issue of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases show that  long-term nourishment with bromelain-containing pineapple juice, reduces the severity of inflammation in the colon of mice with colitis.

Immune System

Bromelain enzyme has the ability to activate different immune cells and their cytokines. Cytokines are signaling molecules secreted by immune cells that act as messengers to alert other immune cells. Bromelain enzyme has been shown to remove T-cell CD44 molecules from lymphocytes and to affect T-cell activation. A study in Germany involving 6 breast cancer patients showed the patients to have improved immune function when taking bromelain by mouth.

Cardiovascular Disease

The positive reports in a few clinical trials of bromelain to decrease thrombophlebitis and pain from angina and thrombophlebitis. In one study, the use of bromelain resulted in the disappearance of all symptoms of angina within 4 to 90 days of commencement of daily bromelain treatment. Angina , is chest pain or discomfort that occurs if an area of your heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen-rich blood. It is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of coronary artery disease, the most common type of heart disease. Those at an increased risk of coronary artery disease are also at an increased risk of angina.

Magnesium and Migraines Prevention

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Magnesium is referred to as the “anti stress” mineral. It is responsible for over 300 essential metabolic reactions in the body. Magnesium is essential as a cofactor in the synthesis of RNA from DNA. Is a dietary mineral that helps regulate blood vessel size, serotonin function, and nerve activity in the brain, among other effects. Allows nerves to send messages in the brain and nervous system. Helps keep blood pressure normal, bones strong, and the heartrhythm steady. This mineral, is your key to insulin sensitivity and blood pressure regulation, and magnesium deficiency is common in people with diabetes. Also can help prevent leg cramps, migraines and fatigue.

The  human body contains about 25 grams of magnesium. Roughly 50% of total body magnesium is stored in our bones. The remaining quantity is predominantly found in the cells of body tissues and organs. Only 1 percent is available in blood. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency; loss of appetite, insomnia, weakness, anxiety, irregular heartbeats, dizziness, shortness of breath, PMS, and poor coordination. Adults require about 310-420 mg of magnesium daily.

What is Migraine?

Migraine are primarily caused by excessive dilation of blood vessels in the head. Migraine pain occurs when the blood vessels and muscles lining the brain and scalp becomes stretched or tensed. Scientists  believe that migraine is the result of fundamental neurological abnormalities caused by genetic mutations at work in the brain. About one in seven adults have migraine, so it is very common. Migraine is three times more common in women than in men.

A migraine headache can cause intense throbbing or pulsing in one area of the head. In addition to headache, migraine attacks are often associated with increased sensitivity to environmental stimuli, nausea or vomiting. Many patient experience migraines with auras just before or during the head pain, but most do not.

Migraine attacks last from 4 to 72 hours and are usually felt on one side of the head. During this time you may need to lie down in a quiet and darkened room since the throbbing headache is often made worse by movement, noise and light. Several factors can trigger migraines, including tiredness, stress, hormonal changes, missed or delayed meals, and certain food and drinks, such as cheese, chocolate, coffee, tea and alcohol.

Magnesium and Migraines

Epidemiological findings show that people’s magnesium status is associated with the severity and frequency of migraine headaches, sleep disorders and mood disturbances. Some studies have shown that magnesium depletion plays important role in blood vessel size. Magnesium mineral, relaxes the blood vessels and allows them to dilate, reducing the spasms and constrictions that can cause migraines. Researchers for migraine recommends 200 to 600 mg of magnesium per day.

Some studies show that about half of migraine headache sufferers have a low amount of ionized magnesium in the blood, which suggests a low magnesium status. It seems magnesium concentration affects serotonin receptors, nitric oxide synthesis and release, as well as other migraine-related receptors and neurotransmitters. The available evidence suggests that up to 50% of patients during an acute migraine attack have lowered levels of ionized magnesium. In a study in France, migraine patients were been shown to have significantly lower erythrocyte magnesium levels than controls. Results of a research conducted by the” New York Headache Center” indicate that chronic migraine sufferers have lower magnesium levels in their white and red  blood cells than those who do not have migraines.

A few clinical trials suggest that magnesium supplements may shorten the duration of a migraine and reduce the amount of medication needed. In one study, oral magnesium or a placebo were given to 81 people with migraines. At the end of the study, the frequency of migraines was reduced by 41.6 % in the group taking magnesium, compared to 15.8 % in the group taking the placebo. A 2002 study demonstrated that intravenous magnesium helps relieve migraines in patients with or without an aura.

The results of a clinical experiment in 30  people with migraine without aura, published in the June 2008 of Magnesium Research, found that taking 600 milligrams magnesium daily for 12 weeks reduces migraine attack frequency. In a study, a placebo-controlled trial in 86 children with frequent migraine headaches found that oral magnesium reduced headache frequency over the 16-week intervention. Some doctors, suggest combining magnesium with the feverfew along with vitamin B2 may be helpful when you have a headache. Two symptoms of B2 deficiency include eye fatigue and light sensitivity, which are also triggers for and symptoms of migraine headaches.

For those patients with low magnesium levels, acute migraine pain can likely be stopped with a single intravenous magnesium treatment. In a study found that intravenous administration of magnesium sulfate was just as effective in reducing migraine head pain as IV infusion of metoclopramide. The researchers recruited 40 people (29 women and 11 men ) who suffered from any type of moderate or severe headaches. When subjects had an acute headache, researchers measured their ionized magnesium, then gave them a 1 g intravenous infusion of magnesium. Only eight patients had no response to the magnesium, while 32 of the 40 patients had complete elimination of their headache pain within 15 minutes.