What is Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242?

Overview

Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 was discovered in 2010 by a team of Canadian scientists. It was initially selected among other probiotic strains in the lab for safety and desired qualities before being tested in clinical trials [R].

Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 was first called “Cardioviva” but is now trademarked “Microbiome Plus.”

It has been granted a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) designation by the FDA. Interestingly, several Lactobacillus probiotics have GRAS status because they’re a normal part of our gut flora and have a long history of safe use in traditional fermented foods.

However, Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 supplements have not been approved by the FDA for medical use and lack large-scale clinical research. Regulations set manufacturing standards for supplements but don’t guarantee that they’re safe or effective. Speak with your doctor before supplementing.

How It Works

Scientists think Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 may work by helping the body take in less and get rid of more cholesterol.

L. reuteri NCIMB 30242 carries an important enzyme called bile salt hydrolase (BSH). This enzyme sets bile acids free from their bound form (deconjugating them) [R].

Bile acids conjugated into bile salts with the amino acids glycine or taurine have digestive action [R].

Free bile acids in the gut reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the gut that comes from both food and circulating bile. Unlike bound bile salts, free bile acids attach to cholesterol and get eliminated with the stool [R].

To make up for the loss, the liver increases the production of new bile acids. The body breaks down more cholesterol to keep up [R].

When free bile acids are released in the gut, mucin production also rises. Mucin is a gel-like layer that lies on top of the gut lining. It helps protect the gut lining, repair gut damage, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Low mucin has been implicated in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) [R, R].

On a cellular level, the BSH action of Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB

The post 5 Possible Benefits of Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 appeared first on SelfHacked.

Millions of people live with painful chronic disorders that reduce their quality of life. Are you among them? Read on to learn evidence-based strategies for many types of pain control.

If you have persistent or unexplained pain, it is important to discuss these concerns with your doctor. The information in this post is presented for educational purposes only, and should not be used to replace standard medical care.

Conventional Treatments for Pain

These are some of the treatments your doctor may prescribe for pain. We recommend against taking any medication without talking to your doctor, especially if your pain is persistent or unexplained.

Physiotherapy

Pain may not necessarily correlate with the degree of physical damage. However, poor movement patterns and imbalances may cause the body to reduce further harm to itself by causing pain [R].

Exercise and movements help ensure that injuries heal in a way that restores functional ability [R]. Lack of movements can reduce mobility and strength after the injuries heal.

Physical therapy involves [R, R]:

• Exercise: For some patients, exercise can help manage pain. It strengthens bones and muscles, and improves mood, self-esteem, physical capacity, and decreases stress [R].
• Corrective movements, such as strengthening muscles around the injured areas, improving postures, and correcting poor movement patterns, can help reduce pain [R].
• Massage therapy reduced pain sensitivity at tender points by relaxing muscle tissues and also reduces stress by increasing oxytocin [R].
• Education and advice can help individuals understand their condition and make the best decisions addressing their issues [R].
• Mobility aids can assist in a patient’s balance and maintain motor functions [R].

Physiotherapy should be carefully overseen by a medical professional.

Painkillers

Painkillers help with mild-to-moderate acute pain by treating the symptoms. These include Tylenol or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Medication choice depends on the condition and risk factors of the patients. Some (cyclooxygenase-2 selective) NSAIDs can cause heart complications [R].

NSAIDs can reduce inflammation thus helping with pain. These drugs also reduce fever (antipyretic effects). These drugs include [R]:

• Aspirin
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Phenylbutazone

NSAIDs do have side effects, such as reducing the protective layers in the gut, which can cause stomach ulcers and increase intestinal permeability. In injuries, actively reducing inflammation may also prolong healing time [R, R, R].

The post 30+ Pain Management Strategies (Lower Back Pain, Arthritis) appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are currently available for the treatment of the new coronavirus. Overall, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are basic standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

Does Marshmallow Have a Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Not to be confused with the confectionery treat, the marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) has been used as a traditional herbal medicine since ancient times [R].

Fun fact: the confectionery form used to be made from the marshmallow plant, although today’s marshmallow treats no longer contain any trace of the plant.

Extracts from the marshmallow plant are purported to help with several conditions, such as constipation, ulcers, and inflammation.

There is also some evidence that marshmallow may help with cough, reduce lung inflammation, and have antimicrobial effects, which makes this plant an exciting candidate for future research on respiratory conditions.

That said, there is no evidence yet that marshmallow can treat or prevent the COVID-19 pandemic.

In this article, we’ll go over how marshmallow extracts may interact with the immune system and lung health.

How Can Marshmallow Help?

Cough

Clinical studies suggest that marshmallow plant extracts may reduce the severity and duration of dry cough, a common symptom of COVID-19 [R].

For instance, one study of 822 patients with dry cough due to throat irritation found that marshmallow lozenges and syrup helped improve cough symptoms within 10 minutes [R, R].

In another study looking at 313 children, a marshmallow extract syrup reduced the intensity and frequency of dry coughing associated with throat irritation [R, R].

Several other clinical studies have found similar results in adults and children [R, R].

How exactly does the marshmallow plant help suppress coughing?

According to some scientists, certain compounds inside marshmallow may interact with serotonin receptors, which play a role in the body’s cough reflex [R].

Lung Inflammation

There is evidence that certain compounds inside marshmallow (including polysaccharides and flavonoids) have anti-inflammatory effects [R, R].

One rat study examined the

The post Can Marshmallow Help with Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

What Is Marshmallow?

Overview

Not to be confused with the sweet confectionery treat, the marshmallow plant (Althaea officinalis) has been used as traditional herbal medicine since ancient times [R].

Did you know? The marshmallow treat used to be made from the marshmallow plant, although today’s marshmallow treats no longer contain any trace of the plant.

Extracts from the roots, leaves, and flowers of the plant have several purported benefits and are used to treat various ailments, such as sore throat, cough, and ulcers [R].

According to research, the compounds inside marshmallow may indeed have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cough-suppressing properties [R, R, R].

However, there are few studies performed in humans. More clinical research is needed to fully evaluate the potential health benefits of the marshmallow plant.

Components

The marshmallow plant contains several compounds that have significant biological activity, including [R]:

• Mucilage polysaccharides
• Pectins
• Flavonoids
• Phytosterols
• Tannins

The biological activity of these compounds may, in part, be responsible for the health benefits of marshmallow.

For example, mucilage polysaccharides have demonstrated potent cough-suppressing properties in animal studies [R].

Snapshot

Proponents

• May help suppress coughing
• May promote skin lesion healing
• May improve breast engorgement
• May have anti-inflammatory effects
• May have antimicrobial effects
• May help prevent ulcers

Skeptics

• Lack of clinical research
• Studies are based on different formulations
• Supplements are not standardized

Purported Health Benefits of Marshmallow

Insufficient Evidence For:

The following purported benefits of marshmallow are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies. There is insufficient evidence to support the use of marshmallow for any of the uses listed below. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking marshmallow. It should never be used as a replacement for approved medical therapies.

1) Cough

Clinical studies suggest that marshmallow plant extracts may reduce the severity and duration of cough [R].

For instance, one study of 822 patients with dry cough due to throat irritation found that marshmallow lozenges and syrup helped improve cough symptoms within 10 minutes [R,

The post 6 Health Benefits of Marshmallow + Dosage & Side Effects appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. Overall, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are basic standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

Do Omega-3 Fatty Acids Have a Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat that have important anti-inflammatory effects.

Examples include EPA and DHA, which are commonly found in fish oils, and ALA, which is found in plant oils [R].

Omega-3 fatty acids have many purported health benefits. With the current coronavirus outbreak, their potential ability to help fight infections and improve lung function are of particular interest [R, R].

There is no evidence yet that omega-3 fatty acids can treat or prevent the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, there are studies that suggest these fatty acids may be beneficial for some types of infection, while they may be detrimental in others.

In this article, we’ll go over exactly how omega-3 fatty acids interact with the immune system and lung health. For more information on their other health benefits, check out our article here.

How Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help?

Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. They can influence inflammation through several mechanisms, such as [R]:

• Reducing the gene expression of inflammatory compounds
• Altering the concentration of proteins and hormones that affect inflammation
• Helping produce resolvins, an anti-inflammatory compound

There’s also some evidence that the fatty acids EPA and DHA may stimulate the immune system to better fight infections [R].

In addition, some of the compounds that EPA and DHA help to produce, such as resolvins and protectins, have antibacterial and antiviral properties [R].

Omega-3 Fatty Acids & Infections

Research suggests that the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of omega-3 fatty acids may help fight off certain infections [R, R].

The omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA may limit tissue injury and help fight infections caused by the following bacteria [R, R]:

• P. aeruginosa
• S.

The post Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help With Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. Overall, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are basic standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

Does Licorice Have a Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Licorice, or liquorice, refers to the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant which is often used for its sweet flavor.

This plant root is also used in many traditional herbal medicines, where it is believed to help with digestive issues, cough, menopausal symptoms, and infections [R].

According to research, there may be some validity to these claims as researchers have found that the active compounds inside licorice may have antiviral properties [R].

Make no mistake, there is no evidence that licorice can help prevent or treat the ongoing outbreak of COVID-19.

However, studies do show that licorice may have antiviral activity against viruses that are closely related to the new coronavirus, which makes it an interesting candidate for future research [R].

This article will focus on the link between licorice and the immune system. Check out this article for a more comprehensive look at licorice.

How Does Licorice Help the Immune System?

One of the main active compounds inside licorice is glycyrrhizin, which has a variety of effects in the body, including antiviral properties [R].

According to research, glycyrrhizin may help fight infections through several mechanisms, including [R]:

• Interfering with the ability of viruses to release from infected cells
• Inhibiting virus gene expression
• Activating the development of T-cells

Licorice contains many other biologically active compounds that may also have antimicrobial properties, such as licochalcone A, liquiritigenin, and glabridin [R].

Glycyrrhizin Toxicity

While glycyrrhizin is responsible for many of the antiviral effects of licorice, this compound is also associated with several side effects and safety concerns.

Consuming large amounts of licorice or long term use can cause high blood pressure and low potassium levels, which can result in heart and muscle issues [R].

There’s also some evidence that consuming licorice root during pregnancy may lead to developmental issues in children

The post Can Licorice Help Fight Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event, and details may change as new information comes to light. No adequate or FDA-approved products are yet available to treat or prevent COVID-19 infection.

Selenium & Immunity

Selenium deficiency impairs immune function. Selenium supplementation stimulates the immune system, even in people who are not deficient. Lymphocytes of people who supplemented with selenium (200 µg/day) were more active and efficient at destroying foreign invaders and tumor cells [R].

Activated immune cells have an increased need for selenium and its amino-acid bound form (selenocysteine), according to recent studies [R].

Selenium supplementation may help divert the immune response away from the Th2-type and promote the Th1-type, which protects against asthma, allergic reactions, viral infections, and cancer [R].

Antiviral Effects of Selenium

The severity of Viral Infections

Lack of selenium can set off the immune system and cause even harmless viral infections to progress and become dangerous. Scientists have observed this phenomenon for influenza and coxsackievirus [R, R, R, R, R, R].

Interestingly, one variant of coronavirus isolated from a selenium-deficient region (Hubei province) was more similar to human SARS-CoV-1 than the variant from a selenium-adequate region (Guangdong province). SARS-CoV-1 is a form similar to COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) that also causes respiratory complications [R, R, R].

Selenium supplementation may have antiviral effects, especially in deficient people, whose nutritional status may impair the immune response [R, R].

Respiratory Viruses

A study of 40 people linked selenium deficiency with flu infection and pneumonia [R].

In a clinical trial on 75 children with lower respiratory diseases caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), selenium supplementation promoted a faster recovery [R].

Mice taking supplemental selenium and infected with H1N1 influenza had 3x lower death rates than those that were selenium-deficient [R].

Selenium supplementation reduced inflammation (measured as TNF-α levels) and damage to the lungs and spleen in mice infected with porcine circovirus [R].

In chicken challenged with the avian flu virus, dietary selenium supplementation reduced viral multiplication and increased antiviral defense [R].

In chicken, the

The post Can Selenium Protect You From Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are currently available for the treatment of the new coronavirus (also known as SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV), although research is still ongoing. For now, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

The Importance of Iron Amid COVID-19

Iron In Health & Disease

Iron (Fe) is an essential element. Your body needs iron to [R, R, R, R, R, R]:

• Mount an effective immune response
• Build resistance to infections
• Produce red blood cells and energy
• Transport oxygen in the blood and muscles
• Protect cells against free radical damage, as a part of antioxidant enzymes (including catalases)

Because of these powerful roles, low iron levels can have detrimental health effects. On the other hand, excessive levels of iron can trigger reactive oxygen species that damage tissues and DNA [R, R].

Therefore, it’s important to keep iron levels in balance.

Nearly 60% of iron inside the body is incorporated into hemoglobin, 10% into myoglobin, while the remaining 20 – 30% of iron is bound to special proteins like transferrin and ferritin. These proteins prevent free iron from causing oxidative damage in the body [R, R, R, R, R, R, R].

With this in mind, let’s take a look at one COVID-19 case that hints at the importance of iron balance amid the current pandemic.

A Case of COVID-19 Affecting Nerves & Iron Levels

The case outlined below is from a preliminary report (so-called preprint) that should be taken with a grain of salt since it is still awaiting publication. Findings from preprints remain inconclusive, unvalidated, and medically uncertain until they undergo peer review.

Scientists in China’s Hubei province, where the new coronavirus likely originated from, reported a case of an infected patient with inflammatory nerve problems and low iron levels [R].

The

The post How Can Iron & Ferritin Affect Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are currently available for the treatment of the new coronavirus (also known as SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV), although research is still ongoing. For now, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

Oregano Use Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic

Oregano is a plant from the same family as mint. Many oregano species exist, but the one you’re most likely to encounter in groceries and health stores is Origanum vulgare [R].

Besides being a culinary herb, oregano and its essential oil are packed with active compounds. Many of these are being researched for their medicinal properties, including antioxidant polyphenols and potentially microbe-fighting phenols (carvacrol and thymol) [R, R].

Thanks to its nutrients and antioxidants, oregano is probably a good addition to any diet. People around the Mediterranean have been using it for millennia. Inhabitants of Ancient Greece and Rome, for example, used oregano as an antiseptic and wellness booster [R].

In the West, oregano essential oil has become a popular remedy during the cold and flu season. That doesn’t mean taking oregano can prevent or treat coronavirus, though. We can only gather clues from prior studies that tested oregano against viruses that are similar to the coronavirus strain we’re faced with right now.

How Oregano Affects Antioxidant Defense & Inflammation

Antioxidants support general health and immune function, potentially helping prevent chronic diseases. Staying healthy is paramount amid the current pandemic. Recent data reveal that healthy people are less likely to experience COVID-19 complications and die from it [R].

Oregano is rich in plant-based antioxidants. Even small doses of oregano (1 g/day) can provide a significant amount of these compounds, according to some studies. Its most important antioxidants are polyphenols like rosmarinic acid [R, R, R].

In one experiment on mice with colitis, essential oils of thyme and oregano reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, and IL-6) [R].

Cytokines are mostly inflammatory messengers, and they seem to play a big

The post Can Oregano Fight Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event, and details may change as new information comes to light. No adequate or FDA-approved products are yet available to treat or prevent COVID-19 infection.

Immune-Stimulating Effects of Maitake

In 18 patients with suppressed bone marrow, maitake extract enhanced the production and activity of neutrophils and monocytes, thus improving their immune response [R].

In 34 older breast cancer patients, post-treatment supplementation with a maitake extract boosted some immunity parameters but suppressed others. The authors called for further research on maitake’s immune-modulating effects [R].

Studies in animals and test tubes indicate the potential of maitake polysaccharides to stimulate the bone marrow and increase the activity of white blood cells. A combination with another medicinal mushroom, shiitake, may be even more potent [R, R, R].

The D-fraction (beta-glucan) is primarily responsible for the observed immune-boosting activities [R].

However, it’s untested whether maitake would be able to support the response against respiratory infections, such as the one caused by COVID-19.

Antiviral Effects of Maitake

Maitake mushroom extract stimulated macrophages to produce antiviral cytokines such as TNF-α, which inhibited the growth of the influenza virus in infected kidney cells [R].

A maitake polysaccharide inhibited the replication of enterovirus 71 in a cell-based study [R].

In another study in cells, a maitake extract (D-fraction) inhibited hepatitis B virus replication and enhanced the antiviral effect of interferon-alpha2b [R].

A protein isolated from maitake mushroom inhibited the replication of herpes simplex virus 1 in cells and improved the symptoms in mice [R].

Maitake & COVID-19 Risk Factors

According to preliminary data, patients with hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes may be at risk of more severe COVID-19 infections [R].

Maitake extracts (SX- and D-fraction) reduced hypertension and inflammation and improved metabolic health in multiple animal studies [R, R, R, R].

They likely work by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). In theory, this may increase the expression of ACE2 receptors and worsen COVID-19 infection, but it’s too early for conclusions [R, R

The post Can Maitake Mushrooms Help With Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

What are Maitake Mushrooms?

Synonyms: Champignon Maitake, Dancing Mushroom, King Of Mushrooms

The King of Mushrooms

Maitake or Grifola frondosa is an edible mushroom from East Asia, now widely cultivated around the world for its nutritional and medicinal values. In the wild, it forms huge clusters at the tree base during the autumn months. Impressive size has earned it the nickname: “the king of mushrooms” [R].

This mushroom has recently gained popularity in the west for its health and vitality-promoting effects. People from Japan and China have used it for centuries in their cuisine and traditional medicine.

Did you know? In Japanese, “maitake” means dancing mushroom. Legend says that people would dance with joy upon finding this mushroom in the wild, knowing about its healing properties.

Traditional and Modern Uses

Ancient medical scripts from the east mention maitake as a powerful remedy to protect the lungs and liver and boost “qi” or life force. Traditional Chinese medicine uses this mushroom as an adaptogen — a tonic that balances the entire body and improves stress resilience [R, R].

In modern medicine, people mostly use maitake to enhance immunity, combat diabetes, and support cancer treatment [R].

This post reviews the scientific evidence to determine the potential uses & benefits of maitake, while pointing out significant drawbacks and limitations.

Snapshot

Proponents:

• Stimulates the immune response
• May improve metabolic health
• May have anti-cancer effects
• May induce ovulation

Skeptics:

• Limited clinical evidence
• May cause allergic reactions
• Unknown safety for pregnant and nursing women

Active Components & Mechanism of Action

The primary active ingredients in the fruit body are beta-glucans, polysaccharides with versatile health benefits. In maitake, they are fused with protein to form specific glycoproteins: D-fraction and SX-fraction. This mushroom is rich in other metabolites and healthy fiber, too [R].

A decent amount of research backs up the uses of maitake D-fraction. Japanese scientists took a step further and purified a so-called MD-fraction, which supposedly offers therapeutic advantages [R].

Beta-glucans and other polysaccharides from maitake can [R, R, R, R]:

• Boost the immune response
• Reduce oxidative stress
• Inhibit cancers cells

The post Surprising Maitake Mushrooms Benefits + Dosage & Safety appeared first on SelfHacked.

This post is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event, and details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are yet available to treat or prevent COVID-19 infection.

Bee Pollen for Immunity

Bees make bee pollen by collecting parts of flower pistils and mixing them with nectar and saliva. People use this nutrient-dense food and traditional remedy to ward off infections, enhance immunity, support the liver, and more [R, R, R].

Bee pollen is rich in immune-stimulating polysaccharides, such as glucans and galactans, researched for their potential anti-cancer effects [R, R, R].

Preliminary research brings up the potential of BP to combat an array of pathogenic microbes, mostly bacteria [R, R, R, R].

Bee Pollen for Respiratory Infections

In a small study of 20 professional swimmers, a six-week supplementation with pollen extract significantly reduced “the number of training days missed due to upper respiratory tract infections” (4 days vs. 27 days with placebo) [R].

In mice with lung injuries, bee pollen significantly reduced inflammation and improved lung function [R].

Active components from plant pollen inhibited the spreading of three flu virus subtypes (H1N1, H3N2, and H5N1) in test tubes. Even though the flu virus shares some features with COVID-19, that doesn’t imply the same effects of pollen components on the other one [R].

Dosage and Safety Precautions

Side Effects

In clinical studies, bee pollen-based products haven’t caused any notable side effects. The potential dangers come from contaminated products that may contain illegal substances, mold, bacteria, pesticides, and other toxins [R, R, R].

Some people use bee pollen to relieve seasonal allergies, but, in others, it may trigger dangerous allergic reactions. Even though the oral intake is not the same as respiratory exposure or skin test, caution is warranted in people with pollen or bee sting allergies [R, R, R].

Dosage

Clinical trials on bee pollen are few, and they have used different, unstandardized BP extracts (150-300 mg). It’s hard to determine the precise recommended dosage, but traditional uses suggest up to 3-5 teaspoons for adults and 1-2 teaspoons

The post Can Bee Pollen Help with Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This post is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event, and details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are yet available to treat or prevent COVID-19 infection.

Shiitake Mushrooms and Immunity

Shiitake is an edible mushroom from East Asia, praised for its nutritional and healing properties. It’s one of the pearls of traditional Chinese medicine. Folks mostly take it to boost immunity, longevity, circulation, and liver health [R, R].

For ages, people have used medicinal mushrooms to enhance the immune response. Shiitake contains lentinan and other beta-glucans that support our defense mechanisms [R, R].

In a study of 52 volunteers, consuming 5 or 10g of shiitake (L. edodes) [R]:

• Enhanced the activity of white blood cells
• Improved gut immunity
• Reduced inflammation (CRP levels)

Research on mice has confirmed the potential of shiitake mushrooms to support gut health and reverse age-related decline in the immune response [R, R].

Besides beta-glucans, they are rich in other types of fiber that act as prebiotics and nurture our gut microbiome [R, R].

Shiitake provides zinc and copper, the two minerals crucial for robust immunity [R, R].

Antiviral Effects of Shiitake

Scientists haven’t yet tested shiitake mushrooms against the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19). A standardized mixture of polysaccharides from shiitake mushroom (AHCC) activated immune cells in humans and animals with viral infections such as [R]:

• Influenza B (in humans) [R]
• Hepatitis C (in humans) [R]
• Human Papillomavirus (in humans and mice) [R]
• Influenza A (H1N1) (in mice) [R, R]
• Avian influenza virus (H5N1, in mice) [R]
• West Nile encephalitis (in mice) [R]

Another shiitake extract (Lentinus edodes mycelia or LEM) reduced the growth of the influenza A virus and increased survival rates in infected mice [R].

Influenza viruses cause flu, which can have similar respiratory complications as COVID-19 infection. However, the effects observed on these strains don’t imply the therapeutic potential of

The post Can Shiitake Mushrooms Protect You from Coronavirus? appeared first on SelfHacked.

Does Cordyceps Have a Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light. No effective or FDA-approved products are currently available for the treatment of the new coronavirus (also known as SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV), although research is still ongoing. For now, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

During these uncertain times, many people are looking to alternative medicines to possibly treat or protect against the new coronavirus.

One such example is cordyceps, a group of fungi commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Earlier studies do suggest that cordyceps may boost immune function and protect the lungs, but this is primarily based on animal research and the results are far from conclusive [R, R, R].

However, there is no evidence that cordyceps supplements or products can prevent or treat the new coronavirus.

What is Cordyceps?

Cordyceps is the name for a group (genus) of fungi, all of which are parasites of various insects or other fungi.

Tinctures and teas from the fungus are used in traditional Chinese medicine for a variety of ailments [R].

When referring to cordyceps, there are mainly two species which are used and researched — C. sinensis and C. militaris [R].

Check out our cordyceps article for more information.

How Does Cordyceps Affect the Immune System?

According to research, cordyceps can influence the immune system in two main ways [R].

On the one hand, cordyceps may be able to stimulate the immune system through several processes, such as [R]:

• Increasing the activity of macrophages, a type of white blood cell
• Increasing the activity of natural killer cells
• Stimulating T-cells
• Increasing the numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ cells
• Increasing the production of IFN-γ

On the other hand, cordyceps may also suppress immune system activity. Although this may seem contradictory, this suppression can have beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, including [R]:

• Inhibition of NF-κB
• Inhibition of TNF-α and IL-β

The post Can Cordyceps Help With Coronavirus? appeared first on SelfHacked.

What are Shiitake Mushrooms?

Synonyms: sawtooth oak mushroom, black forest mushroom, oakwood mushroom, golden oak mushroom.

Asia’s Tasty Superfood

Chinese and Japanese people have praised this tasty “superfood” for ages, both as a culinary ingredient and a traditional remedy. They still have the biggest share in worldwide production, but more and more growers in the US produce shiitake [R].

Shiitake is the second most popular edible mushroom in the world, available in various forms as a food or supplement.

Did you know? The US authorities didn’t allow the cultivation of shiitake mushrooms before the 80s. Supposedly, they feared that the mushrooms would “escape” into wild forests and harm the trees.

Traditional & Modern Uses

Shiitake is one of the pearls of traditional Chinese medicine. Other eastern countries, such as Japan, Korea, and Russa, have also used it as a natural remedy for ages. Folks mostly take it to boost immunity, longevity, circulation, and liver health [R].

This mushroom is popular in modern medicine, alike. Scientists are researching its potential to combat HIV/AIDS, heart disease, cancer, chronic infections, and more. People also use it as a mouth rinse to maintain oral health [R, R].

What does the available evidence say about the traditional & modern uses of shiitake? How should we take it, and is it safe for everyone? Let’s find out.

Snapshot

PROPONENTS:

• Boost immunity
• May support heart health
• May improve oral health
• May support cancer treatment
• Have antimicrobial effects

SKEPTICS:

• Not well researched in humans
• May cause skin irritation
• May interact with immunosuppressants
• Supplements have unknown potency and purity

Active Compounds

Shiitake mushrooms are rich in bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, sterols, and terpenoids. They stimulate the immune response, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and more. The amount of these compounds depends on the growth and storage conditions [R].

Lentinan is a type of beta-glucan with immune-boosting, anti-cancer, and anti-microbial properties. Ergothioneine, a sulfurous amino acid, combats inflammation and oxidative stress [R, R, R, R].

Spores (mycelia) of shiitake mushrooms are rich in anti-inflammatory molecules that protect the liver [R].

Shiitake Mushrooms Nutrition & Calories

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This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light.

Is Garlic Important Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Eating garlic is healthy. This is especially true for raw garlic, which is higher in active compounds and nutrients. However, there’s no evidence that garlic can prevent or treat the new coronavirus.

The WHO (World Health Organization) also says that garlic is “a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties” but “there’s no evidence that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus” [R].

Remember that the best preventive measures you can take against the new coronavirus are to stay at home, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face.

Despite some far-fetched claims you may have seen in your social media feed, garlic has never been tested against the new coronavirus. Therefore, we can only review studies that investigated various garlic preparations on similar coronaviruses in this post.

We’ll also take a look at whether garlic has an effect on viruses that cause the common cold, flu, and respiratory infections.

Lastly, limited studies suggest that garlic may strengthen the immune response, reduce inflammation, and help prevent heart disease and diabetes (along with lifestyle changes). We’ll talk a bit about how that might be relevant amid the current pandemic.

All in all, there is a solid amount of small-scale, low-quality research on garlic. But proper clinical trials are lacking and many purported benefits of garlic remain unproven [R].

Based on its overall effects, the only role garlic may play amid the COVID-19 pandemic is promoting general health.

Garlic as a Natural Antiviral

Activity Against Coronaviruses

Infectious bronchitis virus is a coronavirus that infects birds. Garlic extract reduced its replication in chicken embryos in one experiment [R].

This study doesn’t provide us with much, though. The tested strain is different from the new coronavirus. It’s also impossible to translate findings on chickens to humans. Let’s hope future research on garlic and coronaviruses gives us more clues.

Tests On Other Viruses

In test tubes, garlic extract was active against viruses that cause [R, R]:

• Cold sores (herpes simplex virus type 1)
• Genital herpes (herpes simplex virus type 2)
• Respiratory infections (parainfluenza virus type 3)
• Colds (human rhinovirus type 2),
• The

The post Can Garlic Fight Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light.

Do B Vitamins Have a Role in the COVID-19 Pandemic?

The various B vitamins play many important roles in the body, including several key effects in the immune system. This has led some researchers to evaluate their impact on infections [R, R].

However, there is currently no evidence that B vitamins can treat or prevent the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Previous research has shown that the different B vitamins may stimulate the immune system and help protect against certain infections, but the evidence has mostly been inconclusive [R, R, R].

Overall, the best preventive measures you can take against COVID-19 are basic standard precautions, including social distancing, hand washing, and avoiding touching your face.

Why Your Immune System Needs B Vitamins

There are many types of vitamin B, which all have unique functions in the body. Some of the B vitamins that may have important effects on the immune system include:

• Vitamin B1 (thiamine) [R]
• Vitamin B3 (niacin, nicotinamide) [R, R, R]
• Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) [R, R]
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, pyridoxal) [R, R]
• Vitamin B9 (folate, folic acid) [R]
• Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin) [R, R]

Research suggests that B vitamins affect the immune system in several ways, such as:

• Increasing the number of T cells [R]
• Promoting the activity of macrophages, a type of white blood cell [R]
• Activating antimicrobial peptides [R]
• Helping the immune system recognize bacteria [R]
• Maintaining the effectiveness of natural killer cells [R]

Research on B Vitamins & Infections

Research on B vitamins and their effect on infections is limited, but there are a few studies that may give us some insight.

For example, a study looking at almost 2,500 Indian children found that the group with the lowest vitamin

The post Can B Vitamins Help Fight Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light.

What Role Can Vitamin E Play In COVID-19?

First off, there is no evidence that vitamin E can prevent or treat coronavirus. The 2019 coronavirus (also known as SARS-CoV-2 and 2019-nCoV) is extremely recent and we are still lacking robust studies on it. No effective or FDA-approved products are yet available.

At the same time, doctors are in need of general supportive and preventive measures for COVID-19, the disease caused by the 2019 strain. Hospitals around the world are faced with COVID-19 patients who also suffer from various chronic diseases that increase their chance of dying [R].

Staying healthy seems to be more important than ever.

To maintain good health, we need to get plenty of nutrients from food. Vitamin E intake may be problematic in the US, but the data are conflicting [R].

Some estimates that rely on surveys suggest that over 90% of the US population don’t get adequate amounts of dietary vitamin E [R, R, R].

On the other hand, national reports that rely on vitamin E blood levels say otherwise. According to them, under 1% of the US population aren’t consuming enough vitamin E. Experts say more high-quality analyses are needed to determine how big of a concern vitamin E intake is for Americans [R].

To stay on the safe side, it’s a good idea to be mindful of your diet. Be sure to include healthy vitamin E-rich foods, as your immune system needs this vitamin.

Vitamin E is also considered a general supportive treatment for coxsackievirus and bovine coronavirus in states of deficiency. There’s no evidence that it can do the same for patients infected with the new coronavirus, though [R].

Coxsackievirus is a distant relative of the 2019 coronavirus. Bovine coronavirus, on the other hand, is somewhat of a closer relative. It has been around for a while, infects cows, and there’s a vaccine against it [R].

The best preventive measures you can take against 2019-nCoV are those of standard care: stay at home, wash your hands, and avoid touching your face.

Why Your Immune System Needs Vitamin E

The primary function of vitamin E is to combat oxidative stress by getting rid

The post Can Vitamin E Help Fight Coronavirus (COVID-19)? appeared first on SelfHacked.

This article is for informational purposes only. The current coronavirus outbreak is an ongoing event and certain details may change as new information comes to light.

Resveratrol Research Amid the COVID-19 Health Crisis

A recent comment in the prestigious journal Nature stresses how urgently we need medicines for the current coronavirus outbreak [R].

But if you think that only immune-stimulants, antivirals, and essential nutrients are being researched against the new coronavirus, you’re in for a surprise.

Scientists behind the commentary list all potentially promising compounds that might either help kill the new virus or prompt our immune system to get rid of it. Resveratrol is easy to miss among a long list of antiviral drugs, but it’s there [R].

So what is an antioxidant from red wine and berries doing on a list of “potentially therapeutic options for coronavirus”?

It’s still too early to say, and there’s no evidence that resveratrol can treat the new virus. Yet, scientists believe resveratrol is worth investigating in more detail. Earlier cell-based studies hint at its ability to fight MERS-CoV [R, R].

To avoid confusion, the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS‐CoV) was first identified in 2012. What we are dealing with right now is a pandemic of a very similar, but distinct virus named SARS-CoV-2 or 2019-nCoV [R, R].

Since the 2019 coronavirus is extremely recent, we are still lacking robust studies on it. No effective or FDA-approved products are yet available.

The best preventive measures you can take against 2019-nCoV are those of standard care: stay at home, wash your hands, and avoid touching your face.

Can Resveratrol Directly Fight Coronavirus?

Effects on Similar Viruses Like MERS & SARS

In one study, resveratrol prevented MERS-CoV infection in cells. It also helped infected cells live longer. This study earned resveratrol its place in the Nature commentary [R].

The MERS virus needs a kind of protein shell called nucleocapsid to survive and spread. In the mentioned study, resveratrol reduced nucleocapsid production. Most coronaviruses have nucleocapsid shells, likely including the 2019 coronavirus strain [R].

Resveratrol also reduced caspase 3, a sort of death signal cells send off. The less caspase 3, the less cells are dying from the virus [R].

The post Can Resveratrol Help Fight Coronavirus? appeared first on SelfHacked.

What is Bee Pollen?

Bees collect parts of flower pistils, mix them with nectar and saliva, and take them to the hive to nourish their offspring. Beekeepers use special traps to separate pollen grains from bees’ legs as they enter the hive — that’s how we get the product known as bee pollen [R, R].

Due to its rich and diverse nutritional content, bee pollen (BP) has gained nicknames such as the “essence of flowers” or “perfectly complete food.” It widely varies in composition, and there are no two identical samples of bee pollen [R, R].

A high nutritional value, along with the presence of different bioactive compounds, has granted bee pollen the status of a “functional food” and a well-known traditional remedy. Modern science has been researching BP for a range of potential therapeutic effects [R].

Traditional Uses

Folks have praised the nutritional value and medicinal properties of bee pollen for millennia; the ancient Egyptians described it as the “life-giving dust.” The widespread use of pollen traps in the 19th century marked an expansion in BP popularity and scientific research [R].

People have used bee pollen to treat bacterial infection, boost digestion and immunity, support the liver, and more. A wide array of BP nutrients supposedly give energy, improve athletic performance, and prevent malnutrition [R].

Snapshot

Proponents:

• Highly nutritious
• Helps with prostate enlargement
• Relieves menopausal and PMS symptoms
• May protect the liver and heart
• May combat bacterial infections

Skeptics:

• Some products are contaminated
• May cause allergic reactions
• May not be safe for pregnant women
• Lacks solid clinical research

Healthy Components

In general, bee pollen abounds with macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, and different bioactive components. The exact content can vary a lot, depending on the origin, climate, plant quality and condition, seasonal variations, and more [R].

Nutritional Profile

Bee pollen roughly consists of [R]:

• Carbs (40%): sugars and polysaccharides
• Protein (35%): all essential amino acids
• Fats (5%): omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids
• Water (4–10%)
• Vitamins, minerals, and more

It contains different enzymes and minerals, all known vitamins, and over 20 trace elements. Vitamins include both fat-soluble (A,

The post Bee Pollen Health Benefits + Side Effects, Dosage & Reviews appeared first on SelfHacked.

What Is Reishi?

Ganoderma lucidum/“Lingzhi” (soul/spirit) mushroom, commonly known as “Reishi mushroom”, is a potent fungus that has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine. Proponents claim it is especially good at modifying the immune system by increasing it when weakened, or lowering it when it is too active [R].

It has 400 different bioactive compounds reported to have a number of potential effects including modification of the immune system, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-diabetic, and anti-oxidative [R].

Snapshot

Proponents

• May boost the immune system
• May reduce inflammation and oxidative damage
• May help fight cancer and infections
• May protect the heart, liver, and kidneys

Skeptics

• Insufficient evidence for all benefits
• Sometimes tested as part of multiherbal complexes
• Might over-activate the immune system

Health Benefits

Insufficient Evidence for:

The following purported benefits are only supported by limited, low-quality clinical studies and some animal and cell research. Although some results are promising, there is insufficient evidence to support the use of reishi mushroom for any of the below-listed uses. Remember to speak with a doctor before taking reishi supplements and never use them as a replacement for approved medical therapies.

1) Boosting the Immune System

Most people have heard about reishi for balancing immunity. Studies have identified high amounts of compounds that may strengthen the immune cells and improve general immune system health [R].

Two clinical trials on 75 people with advanced-stage cancer showed that both reishi mushroom extract and complex carbohydrates isolated from this fungus increased the counts of several immune cells (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD56+) and the blood levels of several cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IFN-gamma), but decreased IL-1 and TNF-alpha [R, R].

In a clinical trial on 40 male soccer players on a training program to improve endurance performance (‘living high-training low’), reishi mushroom helped correct the reduction in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio caused by the training. The authors suggested this may help the players fight infections [R].

The post 10 Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) Benefits, Dosage appeared first on SelfHacked.

What is Astragalus?

Astragalus is a large genus of around 3,000 species belonging to the legume family Fabaceae. This plant is a native to the temperate regions in the Northern hemisphere. Common names include milkvetch (most species), locoweed (some species in North America) and goat’s thorn.

Astragalus root is a staple of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is also known as Huang Qi.

It is also used as a “Qi tonifier” in the oriental system of medicine [R].

Most Astragalus supplements contain Astragalus membranaceus and are marketed as life-prolonging extracts for human use.

The root is the only part of the plant used medicinally and is usually harvested from 4-year old plants. Herbalists call astragalus an “adaptogen”.

Snapshot

Proponents:

• Boosts the Immune system
• Helps combat infections
• Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
• Protects the kidneys and heart
• May have anticancer effects

Skeptics:

• Interacts with immunosuppressants
• May not be suitable for autoimmune conditions
• People report headaches and insomnia from higher doses
• Most conditions require intravenous application

Potentially Active Chemical Constituents

Polysaccharides are the most important functional constituents in Astragalus and responsible for the antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities of this herb [R].

It also has several saponins, called Astragalosides (I to X) which are known for their ability to lower cholesterol and boost the immune system [R].

Astragalus also contains flavonoids which show antioxidative qualities and help prevent heart disease and immunodeficiency. Other constituents include amino acids, folic acid, etc and minerals like selenium, zinc, and copper [R].

Traditional Uses

In the Chinese medicinal system, Astragalus is indicated for spleen deficiency symptoms like diarrhea, fatigue, spontaneous sweating and lack of appetite.

Other traditional indications include wasting disorders (a process in which disease causes muscle and fat tissue to “waste” away), night sweats, chronic ulcerations and sores, numbness and paralysis of the limbs and edema [R].

Astragalus is also traditionally used as an antidiarrheal or a laxative and for the treatment of common cold

The post 8 Astragalus Health Benefits + Dosage & Side Effects appeared first on SelfHacked.

Vitamin C Deficiency

Symptoms

Early indications of Vitamin C deficiency are fatigue, malaise, depression, and they may manifest as a reduced desire to be physically active [R].

Scurvy (pathological Vitamin C deficiency) leads to blood vessel fragility resulting in hemorrhage, as well as connective tissue damage due to failure in collagen production, often leading to loss of teeth and tendon rupture. At worse, scurvy can lead to death [R, R].

Other signs and symptoms of severe vitamin C deficiency include [R]:

• Poor wound healing
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Gum inflammation and bleeding
• Petechiae (tiny purple, red, or brown spots on the skin), ecchymosis (a type of bruise), and purpura (purple-colored spots on the skin)
• Joint pain
• Dry eyes and dry mouth
• Corkscrew hair

Clinical scurvy can be avoided by intaking as little as 10 mg of Vitamin C per day. Scurvy is extremely rare in developed countries [R].

However, mild Vitamin C depletion has been observed in 10-30 % of the presumed healthy population [R, R].

Causes

Causes shown here are commonly associated with vitamin C deficiency. Work with your doctor or other health care professional for an accurate diagnosis.

One of the major causes of low vitamin C levels is eating a poor diet lacking in fresh fruits and vegetables. This is commonly seen in:

• Low-income individuals [R]
• Elderly individuals who eat a tea-and-toast diet [R]
• Alcoholics and drug users [R]
• People who follow fad diets [R]
• Anorexics [R]
• People with mental illness [R]

People with malabsorption issues caused by certain gut conditions (i.e., Crohn’s disease, celiac disease) are also at risk for vitamin C deficiency [R].

Low vitamin C levels can also be caused by:

• Heavy metal toxicity [R]
• Viral illnesses [R]
• Overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) [R]
• Kidney disease/failure [R]
• Cancer [R]

Certain drugs can lower vitamin C levels:

The post 29+ Foods High in Vitamin C & Deficiency Symptoms appeared first on SelfHacked.

What is Saffron Tea?

Overview

Saffron, also known as Za’faran, is a spice collected from the Crocus sativus plant. Alluding to its yellow color and high cost, saffron is often referred to as the “Golden Spice.” It has been used as a seasoning in food and as a coloring agent for over 4 millennia [R].

The Crocus sativus flower consists of thread-like, crimson-colored structures known as stigmas. The stigmas are collected and dried, resulting in the saffron spice [R].

The popularity of saffron has spread from the Middle East across the globe. Some people stick to using saffron as a culinary spice, while others opt-in for supplements.

But a handful of people want to enjoy the refreshing and strong taste of carefully prepared saffron tea. This article is for you!

Saffron tea is an infusion made with the saffron spice (dried saffron stigmas) and boiling water. Various herbs are also usually added to balance its taste, along with honey, coconut milk, or whatever suits your taste buds. As long as you get real saffron, you can’t go wrong.

So let’s take a look at what saffron tea might be good for, how to make sure you’re getting high-quality saffron (instead of a cheaper plant substitute like safflower or cornsilk), and how to prepare delicious saffron tea!

Traditional and Modern Uses

Historically, saffron was used in traditional medicine  as a remedy for a variety of ailments including:

• Asthma
• Cramps
• Stress
• Congestion

Similarly, saffron was often included in various preparations used for pain relief [R].

In modern medicine, saffron has gained popularity for its wide range of therapeutic applications, including but not limited to [R, R]:

• Boosting low mood
• Anxiety relief
• Treatment of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Insulin resistance
• Diabetes
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Learning disabilities

However, only a few high-quality, large-scale clinical trials of saffron have been carried out. Most of its modern uses still lack proper evidence.

The chemical signature of saffron is complex: scientists have discovered over 150 compounds in this spice. The most significant to its potential benefits, taste, and smell are crocin, picrocrocin,

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