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.

What’s the name of the vital adrenal gland hormone that helps manage stress, memory and other mental activities?

This natural substance is called DHEA and it is a hormone that has been studied rigorously. It may be effective for increasing one’s well being, to help with aging skin, improvement of erectile dysfunction, menopause, and osteoarthritis. There have also been reports showing it might help strengthen the immune system and it can reportedly boost muscle mass.

DHEA levels in the body peak when people are in their 20’s and after that there is a steady decline. By age 70, it’s reported that levels of DHEA are only about 25% of what they were during those peak years. Over the next three to five years, even more research will be conducted on this hormone as scientists continue to flush out its many health benefits.

Is it possible to energize my heart with all-natural energy fuel for increased stamina and immunity?

Not only is this possible, but leading cardiologists recommend you do so with one powerful nutrient called coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). CoQ10 was discovered in 1957 at the University of Wisconsin and it has turned out to be one of the most important scientific discoveries of this century.

Studies have shown that CoQ10 declines rapidly as people age and it is a difficult nutrient to get from foods. This decline begins after age 20 and accelerates rapidly after age 40 to 50. And because CoQ10 is the fuel for the mitochondria-or energy factories of your cells-a shortage of CoQ10 can leave you feeling tired and run down.

The heart demands huge quantities of CoQ10 and if it isn’t there, the heart pumps less blood, which can lead to fluid build up. That’s one of the reasons why people with congestive heart failure are tired all the time.

Studies have also shown CoQ10 can be effective for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. But here’s an important point: To get the benefits of CoQ10, make sure you take it with some form of fat. Otherwise, the CoQ10 molecule will not be absorbed into your system and will not be made available to your cells.

To educate yourself on this life saving nutrient, it is highly recommended that you read The Coenzyme Q10 Phenomenon by cardiologist Stephen T. Sinatra. The stories he tells of people coming back from the brink of death simply by the use of this nutrient are remarkable. Sinatra says, “It is unthinkable for me to practice good cardiology without the help of Coenzyme Q10.” Enough said. Get the book and read it.

Is there anything new besides glucosamine and chondroitin for relief from joint discomfort?

There has been some preliminary research on a sulfur supplement called methylsulfonylmethane or MSM. One study showed it may reduce some symptoms of osteoarthritis and it appears it may be even more effective when taken in combination with glucosamine to reduce swelling and improve joint function. However, there have not been many studies and the Arthritis Foundation says it is an unproven remedy. But Stephen Lindsey, MD, chief of rheumatology at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation Baton Rouge, says MSM is safe enough for patients to give it a try.