Latest news with #DrBergNutritionals
Irish Daily Mirror
17-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
Anyone who wakes up between 2-3am urged to see doctor for important reason
A health guru has sounded the alarm for those who find themselves waking up between 2-3am - suggesting it's time to see a GP as it might indicate an underlying health issue. Dr Eric Berg DC, who has a whopping 13 million followers on his YouTube channel, issued the warning in his video titled: "This Was DESTROYING My Life". Dr Berg, a proponent of healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting, penned the popular The Healthy Keto Plan and runs Dr Berg Nutritionals. He's hung up his practitioner hat to dedicate himself to educating people on wellness via social media. According to the expert, if you're tossing and turning at 2am, your cortisol levels could be out of control. Cortisol, the body's stress-response hormone, should be hitting its lowest levels around that time, but for some, it's peaking instead, leading to disrupted sleep. He recommends that people get checked by a doctor if they have low levels of magnesium, as a deficiency can cause issues with cortisol and sleep. Sharing his own health battle with poor sleep, he said: "How do you go back to sleep if for some reason you wake up between 2-3am in the middle of the night? "I would consider myself an expert in insomnia because I had this for over a decade and it was destroying my life. It was not just getting up at 2-3am in the morning, sometimes I wouldn't even sleep for one minute the entire night, I would lay there. It was basically torture. "What's unique about 2am is something called the circadian rhythm with cortisol. Cortisol should be at the lowest point in this rhythm at 2am and the highest point at 8am. For me everything was backwards I was very awake at 2am, but I was extremely tired at 8am in the morning. "I tried everything, I even tried prescription medications, it didn't work. In fact what I didn't know at the time was those medications actually worsen and raise your cortisol." Poor sleep can lead to a host of health issues including cardiac problems, dementia, and diabetes. Sharing some tips on how to tackle high cortisol levels, Dr Berg remarked: "One big one is magnesium. Magnesium has the ability to lower cortisol and your cortisol can actually go up if you're deficient in magnesium." Studies suggest that magnesium may be effective in reducing cortisol levels. Being deficient in magnesium can cause an increase in cortisol levels, which is the primary stress hormone in the body. Lack of magnesium can exacerbate your stress response, yet scientific findings are somewhat varied and more research is necessary for a conclusive understanding of these effects. Magnesium is often depleted during stress, making it difficult to handle stress efficiently. Crucial in muscle relaxation, magnesium's function can be hindered by excessive cortisol. The regulation of the nervous system by magnesium aids in a more composed reaction to stress. If you're feeling anxious or irritable, it might be down to low magnesium levels which can cause cortisol to spike, according to studies. Dr Berg has some advice for those experiencing muscle tightness or cramps: "If you're watching right now and you have any tightness in your muscles - your upper back, lower back or if you point your toe and it cramps - that's a sure sign that you are deficient in magnesium. The type of magnesium that I would recommend taking is something called magnesium glycinate. It can help relax your muscles and reduce cortisol." He also suggests the best time to take this supplement: "You want to take it at night before you go to bed. Towards the later part of the morning, right around 6am, is when you have the least amount of magnesium in your tissues, this is also probably why a lot of health problems occur in the early morning - like heart attacks, stroke restless leg syndrome, because a lot of these things are influenced by magnesium." Dr Berg also points out another symptom to watch for: "One last indication of magnesium deficiency is twitching, so if you're getting this twitch underneath your eye or your arm that's a sure sign that you are deficient in magnesium. Magnesium controls calcium and when you don't have enough magnesium you get more calcium and the calcium just causes cramping in different areas of the body." Magnesium is a vital mineral that aids in metabolism, energy utilisation, muscle function, and protein usage. Although it's rare to have a magnesium deficiency, it can occur in individuals who struggle to absorb magnesium due to factors such as surgery, severe burns, malabsorption issues, certain medications, or low calcium levels in the blood. Foods rich in magnesium include: Low magnesium levels can result in sleep problems, including insomnia and various sleep disruptions. This essential mineral plays a crucial role in managing the body's biochemical processes and circadian rhythms, helping you fall asleep and maintain restful sleep. Magnesium promotes relaxation by inhibiting certain neurotransmitters that activate the body while boosting those that have a calming effect. Those with digestive diseases, diabetes, alcohol dependence, and older adults are most at risk of magnesium deficiency. Symptoms of magnesium deficiency can include low mood, fatigue, headaches, constipation, heart palpitations, numbness, anxiety, irritability, nausea, weakness, twitching, cramping, or cardiac arrhythmia. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should consult your doctor. Taking magnesium supplements may alleviate symptoms of insomnia. Research indicates that magnesium glycinate can help reduce anxiety, insomnia, and stress, while magnesium chloride may calm the nervous system. Studies suggest that magnesium supplements could decrease the time it takes to fall asleep, improve sleep quality, and reduce symptoms of insomnia, particularly in older adults with low magnesium levels. If you've been diagnosed with a magnesium deficiency, consult your doctor about taking magnesium supplements. If you frequently experience poor sleep, inform your GP as soon as possible to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Dr Berg added: "Low blood sugar can increase cortisol and cause you to wake up at night. If your diet is high in carbs, your blood sugar may decrease while sleeping, and your body will increase cortisol levels to normalize your blood sugar. "If you're waking up at 2am, evaluate what you ate the day before. Refined starches, MSG, alcohol, snacking, and eating late can disturb sleep. Salt cravings can signify a sodium deficiency. Sodium helps lower cortisol, so add more sea salt to your meals throughout the day if you're having salt cravings." Here are a few additional sleep tips to help improve your sleep at night: The health guru highlighted: "The liver detoxifies the body between 1am and 3am. Night waking during this time frame could signify a problem with the liver. Milk thistle before bed can help. "Restless legs syndrome can be related to a B1 or magnesium deficiency. Lower your carb intake and increase your consumption of these nutrients. A high pulse rate could signify a potassium deficiency, which can also interfere with sleep. Apple cider vinegar before bed can help stabilise blood sugar for better sleep, but make sure it's diluted."
Business Mayor
03-05-2025
- Health
- Business Mayor
'Ancient' beauty practice using just two ingredients gives 'amazing' results
Rice water may prolong the hair growth phase (anagen) and awaken dormant follicles (Image: Getty ) For those aiming to halt hair loss or strengthen their locks and scalp naturally, an 'ancient' concoction might just do the trick. Experts suggest that applying this formula to your tresses for a fortnight could yield 'amazing' outcomes while being effortless to whip up with just two household components. Dr Eric Berg DC took to YouTube with a fresh upload titled: 'What would happen if you used rice water on your hair for two weeks.' He delves into the potential changes you could observe, the reasons behind rice water's benefits for hair, and shares an easy recipe to create it at home. An advocate for healthy living, Dr Berg engages his audience with instructive posts across social media platforms. While he has hung up his practising gloves, his influence continues through his educational shares. Additionally, he heads Dr Berg Nutritionals and is known for his expertise in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting, reports Bristol Live. This liquid treasure, extracted from soaked or boiled rice, reportedly carries nutrients that bolster the hair's well-being and visual appeal. It's associated with enhancing hair strength, fostering growth, amplifying sheen, and improving elasticity. Despite limited scientific validation, plenty of personal accounts attest to positive effects, particularly in augmenting gloss and minimising snap and breakage. Rice water, rich in starch, wraps around the hair shaft to reduce friction and give hair a healthier shine and smoothness. This traditional remedy boasts an abundance of amino acids and nutrients that reinforce hair strength, potentially cutting down on breakage and split ends. Inositol, found in rice water, is praised for its ability to heighten hair elasticity, lessening susceptibility to harm. Advocates for rice water propose that scalp application may stimulate hair growth. It's suggested that rice water could aid in nurturing a balanced scalp pH, deterring dandruff. While many people report positive effects, more scientific research is essential to grasp the full range of rice water's hair benefits. It's important to remember that individual results may vary with hair texture and condition. Excessive or extended use of rice water might also induce protein overload in some cases. The mixture is rich in nutrients like amino acids, B vitamins, vitamin E, and minerals (Image: Getty) 'Rice water for hair is an ancient secret used in Asia for centuries,' remarked the health expert. This technique hails from Heian-era Japan (794-1185 CE), where court women were celebrated for their long, lustrous locks achieved by washing with rice water. Rice water has long been a vital component of East Asian beauty rituals. Women across China, Japan, and Korea harness its qualities to enrich their hair and scalp, confident in its moisturising, soothing effects that also boost hair shine. This ancient secret has found its way into modern virality, especially on social platforms, as its purported benefits for hair growth and general health are being rediscovered. Dr Berg attests to the superior benefits of fermented rice water for hair, stating: 'Fermented rice water is the best rice water for your hair,' and explaining: 'It takes 48 hours to make probiotic rice water. Rice water contains B vitamins and amino acids essential for the hair. Fermented rice water contains pitera, a byproduct of fermentation often used in skin care. Pitera helps brighten the hair and also helps with dandruff and itchiness.' He further elaborates on its merits: 'Fermented rice water contains lactic acid, which decreases dullness and frizziness. It also contains magnesium and selenium. Fermented rice water increases nitric oxide, which helps bring oxygen to the hair's root.' Rice water has been a staple in beauty rituals for centuries Dr Berg lays out a simple recipe: Combine two cups of organic rice with four cups of water in a bowl. Stir the rice to release its nutrients, then drain the water. Take the soaked rice, add a fresh two cups of water, and let it stand at room temperature for a couple of hours. Strain the infusion into a glass container and cover it lightly to set off the fermentation process. He advises: 'After 48 hours, cover your fermented rice water with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will slow down bacterial growth. To use fermented rice water for your hair, apply it to your hair and scalp, leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse. Do this twice per week for hair growth and healthier hair.' He added: 'Fermented rice water helps repair the hair and puts beneficial microbes back into the hair. It can also be used on your face'. Another option is rice water shampoo bars, which offer a solid, eco-friendly alternative to a traditional shampoo bottle. Before slathering your scalp with rice water, conduct a patch test on a small hair section to see its effects. Use rice water sparingly, especially with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. Ensure you rinse your hair well post-treatment to prevent any starch build-up. Consult a dermatologist before using rice water on your scalp if you have any concerns or scalp conditions. Choose standard rice varieties like white, brown, jasmine, wild, or organic, avoiding instant rice since its proteins are often depleted. If you have eczema or similar skin issues, doing a patch test on a small area before applying rice water to your hair is wise. Although rice water is often promoted as a hair growth remedy, it's not a scientifically validated treatment for hair loss. It may not be the ideal solution for those dealing with this issue. Hair loss can be a side effect of specific medications or a warning sign of an underlying health problem. It's advisable to consult your doctor if you have any concerns related to your hair.
Daily Mirror
02-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'Ancient' beauty practice using just two ingredients gives 'amazing' results
If you're looking to avoid hair loss naturally or want to achieve stronger hair and a healthier scalp, one 'ancient' remedy could be worth a try - and you can make it at home For those aiming to halt hair loss or strengthen their locks and scalp naturally, an 'ancient' concoction might just do the trick. Experts suggest that applying this formula to your tresses for a fortnight could yield 'amazing' outcomes while being effortless to whip up with just two household components. Dr Eric Berg DC took to YouTube with a fresh upload titled: "What would happen if you used rice water on your hair for two weeks." He delves into the potential changes you could observe, the reasons behind rice water's benefits for hair, and shares an easy recipe to create it at home. An advocate for healthy living, Dr Berg engages his audience with instructive posts across social media platforms. While he has hung up his practising gloves, his influence continues through his educational shares. Additionally, he heads Dr Berg Nutritionals and is known for his expertise in healthy ketosis and intermittent fasting, reports Bristol Live. What's rice water and how does it elevate hair health? This liquid treasure, extracted from soaked or boiled rice, reportedly carries nutrients that bolster the hair's well-being and visual appeal. It's associated with enhancing hair strength, fostering growth, amplifying sheen, and improving elasticity. Despite limited scientific validation, plenty of personal accounts attest to positive effects, particularly in augmenting gloss and minimising snap and breakage. Rice water, rich in starch, wraps around the hair shaft to reduce friction and give hair a healthier shine and smoothness. This traditional remedy boasts an abundance of amino acids and nutrients that reinforce hair strength, potentially cutting down on breakage and split ends. Inositol, found in rice water, is praised for its ability to heighten hair elasticity, lessening susceptibility to harm. Advocates for rice water propose that scalp application may stimulate hair growth. It's suggested that rice water could aid in nurturing a balanced scalp pH, deterring dandruff. While many people report positive effects, more scientific research is essential to grasp the full range of rice water's hair benefits. It's important to remember that individual results may vary with hair texture and condition. Excessive or extended use of rice water might also induce protein overload in some cases. What's Dr Berg's take on this? "Rice water for hair is an ancient secret used in Asia for centuries," remarked the health expert. This technique hails from Heian-era Japan (794-1185 CE), where court women were celebrated for their long, lustrous locks achieved by washing with rice water. Rice water has long been a vital component of East Asian beauty rituals. Women across China, Japan, and Korea harness its qualities to enrich their hair and scalp, confident in its moisturising, soothing effects that also boost hair shine. This ancient secret has found its way into modern virality, especially on social platforms, as its purported benefits for hair growth and general health are being rediscovered. Dr Berg attests to the superior benefits of fermented rice water for hair, stating: "Fermented rice water is the best rice water for your hair," and explaining: "It takes 48 hours to make probiotic rice water. Rice water contains B vitamins and amino acids essential for the hair. Fermented rice water contains pitera, a byproduct of fermentation often used in skin care. Pitera helps brighten the hair and also helps with dandruff and itchiness." He further elaborates on its merits: "Fermented rice water contains lactic acid, which decreases dullness and frizziness. It also contains magnesium and selenium. Fermented rice water increases nitric oxide, which helps bring oxygen to the hair's root." Looking to craft your own rice water? Dr Berg lays out a simple recipe: Combine two cups of organic rice with four cups of water in a bowl. Stir the rice to release its nutrients, then drain the water. Take the soaked rice, add a fresh two cups of water, and let it stand at room temperature for a couple of hours. Strain the infusion into a glass container and cover it lightly to set off the fermentation process. He advises: "After 48 hours, cover your fermented rice water with a lid and store it in the refrigerator. The cold temperature will slow down bacterial growth. To use fermented rice water for your hair, apply it to your hair and scalp, leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse. Do this twice per week for hair growth and healthier hair." He added: "Fermented rice water helps repair the hair and puts beneficial microbes back into the hair. It can also be used on your face". Another option is rice water shampoo bars, which offer a solid, eco-friendly alternative to a traditional shampoo bottle. What should you remember? Before slathering your scalp with rice water, conduct a patch test on a small hair section to see its effects. Use rice water sparingly, especially with low-porosity hair or a dry scalp. Ensure you rinse your hair well post-treatment to prevent any starch build-up. Consult a dermatologist before using rice water on your scalp if you have any concerns or scalp conditions. Choose standard rice varieties like white, brown, jasmine, wild, or organic, avoiding instant rice since its proteins are often depleted. If you have eczema or similar skin issues, doing a patch test on a small area before applying rice water to your hair is wise. Although rice water is often promoted as a hair growth remedy, it's not a scientifically validated treatment for hair loss. It may not be the ideal solution for those dealing with this issue. Hair loss can be a side effect of specific medications or a warning sign of an underlying health problem. It's advisable to consult your doctor if you have any concerns related to your hair.
Daily Mirror
02-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Expert recommends six 'life-changing' drinks to have before bed
According to the expert, the beverages can significantly enhance overall health and help regulate blood sugar levels A health specialist has revealed six beverages you can consume before bedtime that may offer 'transformative' advantages. In a video titled: "Drink this before bed - it could change your life", Dr Eric Berg, DC, detailed how one of his suggested nighttime drinks could significantly aid in managing diabetes, prediabetes, and insulin resistance. Dr Berg is a chiropractor and expert in ketogenic diets, focusing on nutrition, intermittent fasting, and dietary practices. He frequently shares educational content on his social media platforms, boasting over 13 million subscribers on his YouTube channel. He leads Dr Berg Nutritionals and has authored several best-selling books. Regarding the drinks, he said: "These nighttime beverages for diabetics promote stable blood sugar levels during sleep, helping to avert potential blood sugar complications. They also enhance sleep quality by mitigating issues such as waking up at night and frequent urination. Consider trying these nighttime drinks for improved sleep tonight." For further details, visit the NHS website. Why is keeping blood sugar under control important? Dr Berg explained that overnight, blood glucose levels typically drop, which triggers an increase in cortisol, subsequently raising blood sugar. He said: "Blood sugar often decreases at night, increasing cortisol, which increases blood sugar levels. Poor sleep can also cause blood sugar issues, and frequent urination at night can contribute to this problem." Elevated blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, poses significant health risks by damaging blood vessels and nerves, potentially leading to severe complications such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney problems, and nerve damage. Prolonged high blood sugar can also heighten the risk of infections and may result in critical conditions like diabetic ketoacidosis. Maintaining stable blood sugar levels is crucial for overall health, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk. The brain relies on glucose for energy, and fluctuations in blood sugar can negatively impact cognitive abilities, potentially leading to memory problems, mood swings, and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. By effectively managing blood sugar, people can enhance their energy levels, focus, sleep quality, and emotional health, ultimately improving their quality of life. For those predisposed to type 2 diabetes, implementing lifestyle changes to control blood sugar can significantly reduce their risk of developing the disease. Research shows that proactive blood sugar management can create a lasting protective effect in the body, helping to prevent complications even if blood sugar levels rise in the future. Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition characterised by the body's insufficient insulin production or ineffective use of insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. This condition, referred to as insulin resistance, prevents glucose from being utilised by cells for energy, causing it to build up in the bloodstream. Here are the evening beverages he claims can help maintain stable blood sugar levels overnight. "Try these drinks to support healthy blood sugar levels and improve sleep," he added. 1. Apple cider vinegar with cinnamon Dr Berg said: "Add one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a pinch of cinnamon to a glass of water for the perfect blood sugar-balancing drink." Research indicates that apple cider vinegar (ACV) and cinnamon could aid in better blood sugar management. Consuming ACV prior to meals might help lessen spikes in blood sugar after eating. Additionally, cinnamon has been found to enhance insulin sensitivity and decrease fasting blood sugar levels possibly. Although it's not a 'miracle cure,' certain studies, such as a 2021 meta-analysis, indicate that ACV may help lower fasting blood glucose and HbA1c levels (which reflect long-term blood sugar management) in individuals with type 2 diabetes. A separate study suggested that cinnamon may help prevent postprandial blood glucose. The results of using ACV and cinnamon can differ for each individual. Remember, ACV and cinnamon should not replace any prescribed medications for diabetes or other health concerns. While they are usually safe, some individuals might face side effects such as stomach discomfort or potential interactions with their medications. ACV should be diluted before consumption, preferably with a tall glass of water. Its high acidity can damage teeth enamel and irritate the oesophagus. 2. Chamomile tea "Chamomile tea lowers cortisol and stabilises blood sugar by directly supporting the cells in the pancreas", the health expert said. Research also shows that chamomile tea might assist in better blood sugar management for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Various studies indicate that consuming chamomile tea can reduce blood glucose levels, enhance HbA1c readings, and improve overall glycaemic control. A study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that chamomile tea can help optimise blood sugar control and may protect against oxidative stress. Chamomile tea is not a substitute for your prescribed diabetes medications. Always check with your healthcare provider before incorporating chamomile tea into your routine, particularly if you have existing health issues or are on medication. If you have diabetes, remember to skip the sugar or honey when sweetening your tea. 3. Golden milk Dr Berg recommends combining turmeric and ginger with milk to make a "delicious" blood sugar-balancing latte known as golden milk. This drink, especially with ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, can be great for managing blood sugar levels. The ingredients may help lower fasting blood sugar and enhance insulin sensitivity. Additionally, cinnamon is known to reduce fasting blood sugar and improve insulin resistance. Golden milk is most effective at lowering blood sugar when it's unsweetened, since added sugars can diminish these advantages. Although the results are encouraging, further human clinical trials are necessary to gain a complete understanding of how curcumin and turmeric influence blood sugar management. 4. Aloe vera juice "Aloe vera is known to help with digestion and ulcers and can be applied topically to wounds, but it also potently affects the cells that make insulin", Dr Berg said. Indeed, there is some evidence indicating that aloe vera juice could potentially aid in regulating blood sugar levels for individuals with diabetes or prediabetes. Certain studies suggest it may boost insulin sensitivity and assist in managing blood glucose. However, the findings are not definitive, and further research is required to validate these advantages. Aloe vera juice has also been linked to other health benefits, such as: Lowering blood lipids (fats): Some studies suggest it may help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. Improved wound healing: Aloe vera may help reduce swelling and promote faster healing of wounds, which are common complications of diabetes. While aloe vera juice can be beneficial, some might encounter side effects like diarrhoea, nausea, or stomach discomfort. It's essential to select aloe vera juice from trusted brands and confirm that it contains no harmful chemicals. 5. Berberine tea "This herb is close in effectiveness to Metformin, just without the side effects," Dr Berg claims. A systematic review from 2021 provides compelling evidence that berberine can be an effective supportive treatment for managing type 2 diabetes. The study indicates that berberine may enhance insulin resistance by reducing body mass index (BMI) and lowering fasting blood insulin levels. Research studies have noted some side effects of berberine, mainly gastrointestinal issues like nausea, stomach pain, bloating, constipation, or diarrhoea. Additionally, berberine might interact with certain medications. 6. Electrolyte drinks (without sugar) The expert says potassium and magnesium are vital for healthy blood sugar levels. He added: "Magnesium can significantly decrease cortisol, while potassium can reduce blood sugar and is essential for glucose storage in the liver and the muscles. Most people are not getting enough potassium." Seek out brands clearly labelled as sugar-free or low in sugar, and check that they don't have high levels of artificial sweeteners. Think about getting your electrolytes from natural sources such as fruits, vegetables, and coconut water, which are not only hydrating but also packed with other nutrients. You can also use electrolyte powders mixed with water for a simple way to boost your electrolyte intake without the sugar and artificial additives found in many beverages. Staying hydrated is essential, especially for those with diabetes, and plain water is always a great choice. You might enjoy adding a splash of lemon or a slice of cucumber for a refreshing taste without any sugar. How can I manage my blood sugar levels? Monitoring your blood sugar levels with a glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can assist you in recognising trends and patterns. It's beneficial to focus on eating whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, while reducing your intake of refined carbs and sugary beverages. Engaging in regular exercise can also help lower blood sugar levels and enhance insulin sensitivity. If your doctor has prescribed diabetes medications, be sure to take them as instructed. Managing stress is crucial, as it can adversely affect blood sugar levels, so finding healthy coping mechanisms is essential. Additionally, scheduling regular appointments with your doctor, endocrinologist, or certified diabetes educator can aid in creating a tailored plan for effectively managing your blood sugar. Are there any key points to bear in mind? Before attempting natural remedies or altering your health routine or diet, it's essential to consult a doctor and undergo a medical examination, diagnosis, and recommendation, especially if you have conditions like diabetes or other health concerns. Always direct any queries about a medical condition to a physician or another competent health provider. None of the beverages mentioned should be used as substitutes for prescribed diabetes medications.
