Health Benefits of Melatonin – Not Just for Sleep!

melatoninWhen I think of the supplement melatonin, the first thing that comes to mind is supporting sleep. It can be very helpful for initiating sleep, increasing sleep duration, as well as regulating circadian rhythm and reducing jet lag. But, new research shows many more exciting health benefits of melatonin. For example, studies indicate that it can also protect against neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury, help with migraines, provide important support for cancer patients, support heart health, and protect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced from the pineal gland in the brain. But, it is now known that it is also produced in multiple sites in the body. In fact, up to 500 times more melatonin is synthesized in the intestinal tract than in the pineal gland. Derived from the amino acid L-tryptophan, melatonin has powerful antioxidant capabilities and anti-inflammatory properties. Promising new areas of research include: Continue reading “Health Benefits of Melatonin – Not Just for Sleep!”

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Foods That Fight Pain: A Dietary Approach to Conquering Migraines, Backaches, and Joint Pain

vegatable-marketIt’s normal to experience aches and pains every once in a while, but if the condition happens frequently, it can impair your quality of life. The good news is the root cause may live in your pantry, which means it is easy to fix: eliminate this trigger food from your diet, and stick with foods that fight pain.

Certain foods act as triggers for arthritis and migraines. At the same time, high-fat foods can increase inflammation and alter estrogen levels, affecting menstrual cramps, migraines, and even increasing the risk of certain forms of cancer.

High-fat foods also damage the arteries, creating blockages that reduce blood flow to the brain, heart, and spine. This explains why back pain is the most common form of pain and the leading cause of disability among American adults younger than age 45.

To determine if you have a dietary trigger for chronic pain, or just need an arterial makeover, consider a three-step intervention. Chances are you’ll be pain-free within months, with a clean bill of health. Continue reading “Foods That Fight Pain: A Dietary Approach to Conquering Migraines, Backaches, and Joint Pain”

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Headache or Migraine?

headacheDo you have a headache or migraine? What’s the difference? A migraine is a severe, painful headache that can last anywhere from several hours to several days. Migraines differ from traditional headaches in that they are usually accompanied by other symptoms such as sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, or flashes of light.

Migraines can affect adults and children, but are most often reported by adults. Women are three times more likely to suffer from migraines than men.

To better understand headaches and to differentiate migraine headaches from other types, check the list of common signs, symptoms and frequencies of headaches below. Our certified wellness counselors recommend keeping a headache diary—noting when your headaches occur, what your headache signs and symptoms are, and any diet or lifestyle triggers you can identify. These details can help a professional assess your situation and make recommendations for natural relief of your headache or migraine.  Continue reading “Headache or Migraine?”

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Our Bloggers

  • Paula Gallagher
    Paula Gallagher
    Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
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  • Margo Gladding
    Margo Gladding
    Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
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  • Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Neal Barnard
    Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
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  • Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
    Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
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  • Debi Silber
    Debi Silber
    Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
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  • Teri Cochrane
    Teri Cochrane
    Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
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  • Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker
    Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
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  • Susan Levin
    Susan Levin
    Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
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  • Rob Brown
    Dr. Rob Brown
    Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
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