Is there a way to build bone with more than just calcium?

There is a safe bioflavonoid called ipriflavone that is proven to stimulate bone formation and bone mineral density. It was first discovered in the 1930’s but is only now gaining recognition in the medical community. Over 150 studies on safety and effectiveness have been done with ipriflavone, mostly as it relates to osteoarthritis and other bone diseases in both men and women. It appears that ipriflavone combined with 1000 mg of calcium has a positive effect on preventing loss of bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. And some studies have shown a bone building capability. An extremely thorough examination of ipriflavone was reported in Alternative Medicine Review (Volume 4, Number 1, 1999) and it concluded:

“The therapeutic benefits of ipriflavone in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis have been well researched. IP appears to restrain bone loss in postmenopausal women and in some cases, particularly in elderly populations, stimulates new bone growth and decreases fracture rates. It has also been found to enhance the effect of low-dose estrogen on bone preservation.”

I’ve read that bilberry improves night vision and reduces eyestrain. But isn’t there another berry that relieves tired, dry, blurry eyes?

Yes, bilberry appears to improve circulation to the eyes and this may lead to sharper night vision and relief of eyestrain. Bilberry has a natural attraction to the eyes and it contains potent antioxidants called anthocyanosides. There are over 15 naturally occurring anthocyanosides in bilberry. You can also get these anthocyanosides by eating plentiful amounts of blueberries, cranberries, and huckleberries. For people with diabetes who have decreased blood flow to the eyes (diabetic retinopathy, which can lead to blindness), these antioxidants may prove beneficial.

Schisandra berry is the other berry and it is used for many purposes including improving vision and relieving tired, dry, blurry eyes. It has also been shown to have antioxidant properties. The antioxidants in bilberry and Schisandra are important for the eyes because like other areas of the body, the eyes are under attack from free radicals.

I heard that the seeds of a certain sweet fruit can fortify blood vessels for stronger cardiovascular health? What fruit is that?

You’re referring to grape seed extract. It’s an antioxidant, and among other things it contains oligoproanthocyanidins (OPCs). Resveratrol (red wine extract) from the grape skin also contains OPCs. OPCs are very powerful bioflavonoid and they fight free radicals that cause accelerated aging and damage to DNA, cells and tissues. High concentrations of OPCs are crucial for supporting healthy circulation and strengthening capillaries. And they do this better than any other antioxidants. Numerous studies have been done on OPCs and red wine extract showing a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system…in part due to decreased platelet aggregation which in turns helps blood flow.

Are there any foods that ease digestive discomfort fast?

There are two luscious fruits that contain just the nutrients you might need for this. Pineapple contains bromelain and papaya fruit contains papain. Both of these nutrients come in supplement form if these fruits do not appeal to you. And both supplements can be taken with meals to aid in the digestion of proteins. Bromelain has been used for centuries as a medicinal aid for inflammation and digestion. If you’re allergic to pineapples you might be allergic to bromelain as well. Bromelain is also effective on bruises and may reduce pain in individuals with osteoarthritis. Papain is an enzyme in papaya. Although it is used for stomach disorders, Latin American cooks have been using it for centuries as a meat tenderizer.

What’s the nutrient in pasta sauce that is supposed to be so good for me? I’ve heard that studies show people who eat it have a better long-term health profile than those who don’t.

The nutrient in question is a carotenoid called lycopene. Most of the lycopene in America comes from tomato products like tomato paste, tomato sauce, tomato juice, and ketchup. If you’re not too fond of tomatoes, lycopene is also found in watermelons, pink grapefruits, apricots, and pink guavas. Lycopene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant powers and most of the news in the press talks about its ability to fight cancers of the breast and prostate. One thing to keep in mind is that to get lycopene in the diet, the tomato product in question must be consumed with something containing fat-perhaps olive oil or cheese.

There have been several studies on the affects of tomato products on prostate cancer. One of these entitled, “A Prospective Study of Tomato Products, Lycopene, And Prostate Cancer Risk” concluded that frequent consumption of tomato products is associated with a lower risk of prostate cancer.