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New York Post
10-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
The 6 best mattresses for side sleepers, per experts and testing
New York Post may receive revenue from affiliate and advertising partnerships for sharing this content and/or when you make a purchase. If you're a side sleeper waking up with tight hips, aching shoulders, or a stiff lower back, your mattress might be the problem — and the solution. The best mattress for a side sleeper should do more than cradle your curves; it should actively protect pressure points and support spinal alignment. Whether you're searching for the best mattress for back pain side sleeper scenarios, need plushness for hip pain, or are hunting for a firm mattress for side sleeper durability, we tested and ranked top models to fit every need. We also considered options for the best mattress for heavy side sleeper builds and honed in on the best memory foam mattress for side sleeper support. The goal: personalized comfort that lasts longer than your favorite sleep shirt. Advertisement To guide our reviews, we consulted experts like Dr. Will Cole of BodyBio's Spring Center, Dr. Christopher Allen of Aeroflow Sleep, Lauri Leadley of Valley Sleep Center, and Dr. Michael Gradisar of Sleep Cycle. Their insights helped us evaluate what really matters: pressure relief, natural materials, motion isolation, and how different constructions (foam, latex, hybrid) impact sleep quality for side sleepers. We tested each mattress based on firmness level, material quality, edge support, and how well it performed under real-life side-sleeping conditions. Whether you need cooling tech to combat night sweats or eco-friendly materials to support your health, every pick below delivers something side sleepers can genuinely rest on. Best mattresses for side sleepers Best overall: Nolah Evolution 15 Mattress Nolah Pros: Exceptional pressure relief for hips and shoulders Zoned support for proper spinal alignment Strong motion isolation for couples Great for hot sleepers Cons: High profile (15″) may be too tall for low frames Slightly heavy — needs two people to unbox and move If you're a side sleeper with pressure points that scream like a banshee in the morning, the Nolah Evolution might be your dream date. Its seven-layer hybrid design, including the proprietary AirFoam HD and an 8-inch HDMax Tri-Zone coil system, makes it one of the most comfortable, supportive mattresses for side sleepers we've tested. The plush Euro-top cradles hips and shoulders without dragging the rest of your body into a memory foam abyss, while the coil zones provide firmer support around your lumbar region. It's not just 'nice' to sleep on, it's healing. Commerce reporter Angela Tricarico put it best: 'I'll just get this out of the way now: I love the Nolah Evolution mattress… even after over a month of use, I haven't been able to find a major flaw.' She praised its pressure relief, firm feel, and cooling layers, especially for side sleepers who suffer from hip and lower back pain. The 15-inch height might be tall for some frames, but the extra layers are what allow it to deliver plush support with serious longevity. Mattress type: Hybrid | Feel: Plush, Luxury Firm, Firm | Material: AirFoam HD + Tri-Zone coils | Height: 15″ | Number of layers: 7 | Sleep trial: 120 nights | Free shipping: Yes | Warranty: Limited lifetime Best value: Happsy Organic Mattress with Pillow Topper Happsy Pros: Affordable price for a certified organic mattress Customizable firmness with an optional topper Breathable and supportive with great bounce Cons: Base model may be too firm for side sleepers without a topper Limited edge support The Happsy Organic Mattress isn't flashy, but it doesn't need to be. This hybrid mattress delivers GOTS-certified organic materials, firm support, and a plush optional topper at a surprisingly wallet-friendly price. It's a straightforward design: organic latex, coils, cotton, and wool — all the essentials, none of the chemicals. And for side sleepers who need that gentle give at the hips and shoulders, the optional pillow-top makes a world of difference. Dr. Will Cole highlighted Happsy as a top pick for budget-conscious shoppers who still want certified non-toxic materials: 'A simpler design at a more accessible price point while maintaining organic material standards.' He pointed out that medium to medium-soft firmness is ideal for side sleepers, and Happsy delivers just that with this topper. The mattress sleeps cool thanks to its natural materials, and the motion isolation is solid for a coil-based model. If you want all the benefits of an organic, pressure-relieving mattress without the designer price tag, Happsy is hard to beat. It may not come with high-tech cooling or multiple firmness zones, but it has what matters: honest comfort, clean materials, and a price that doesn't make you sweat. Just be sure to get the topper if you sleep on your side — it's worth the extra spend. Mattress type: Hybrid (organic latex + coils) | Feel: Medium firm with topper | Material: Organic cotton, wool, latex | Height: 10″ (plus 2″ topper) | Number of layers: 4 | Sleep trial: 120 nights | Free shipping: Yes | Warranty: 20 years Best for back pain: Leesa Sapira Hybrid Mattress Pros: Excellent support and pressure relief for side + back sleepers Plush top with strong spine alignment Breathable top foam layer sleeps cool Strong edge support Cons: May be too firm for very lightweight sleepers Requires help to move up stairs or into place Built with side and back sleepers in mind, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid is a spine-whisperer in mattress form. It starts with a ventilated foam comfort layer for airflow and gentle give, followed by memory foam that contours to the body without the dreaded quicksand effect. But the real support comes from its 1,000+ individually wrapped coils and edge reinforcements, creating a responsive, structured feel that's just as comfortable as it is therapeutic. It's not just supportive, it's restorative. Plagued by years of hip and lower back pain, I have to give this mattress the ultimate endorsement. That first night? Game-changer. After struggling with overly stiff mattresses that left me waking up creaky and sore for years, the Sapira offered a plush surface that didn't sacrifice my alignment. The hybrid construction allowed my hips to sink slightly while keeping my spine elevated and tension-free. A month later, I still wake up feeling rested and without stiffness. Experts agree that the right hybrid mattress can combine the best of both foam and coils, cushioning curves while keeping you centered. Dr. Cole calls out models like this for their strong motion isolation and ergonomic design, which 'provide pressure relief using non-toxic materials' for sensitive sleepers. The Leesa's temperature regulation was another standout feature; it slept noticeably cooler than most memory foam competitors thanks to the perforated top layer and spring core. From setup to sleep, the Leesa Sapira Hybrid is impressive. It expands fast, barely smells, and doesn't require a physics degree to unpack. Whether you're a side sleeper with lower back issues or a hot sleeper tired of waking up in a pool of regret, this mattress offers a thoughtful balance of form and function. It's equal parts floaty and supportive, plush yet powerful — and your spine will thank you. Mattress type: Hybrid | Feel: Medium-firm | Material: Foam + coils | Height: 11″ | Number of layers: 5 | Sleep trial: 100 nights | Free shipping: Yes | Warranty: 10 years Best for hip pain: PlushBeds Botanical Bliss Mattress Pros: Zoned coils and natural latex relieve hip and joint pain Made from organic, non-toxic materials Excellent airflow and cooling properties Hand-tufted for durability Cons: Very heavy — challenging to move without help The PlushBeds Botanical Bliss is a certified-organic latex mattress built to relieve deep joint pressure without sacrificing spinal alignment, making it an excellent pick for side sleepers with hip pain. Constructed from multiple layers of natural Dunlop latex and wrapped in breathable organic cotton and New Zealand wool, this mattress excels in both comfort and sustainability. Its bounce, contour, and firmness levels are customizable, which means side sleepers can fine-tune their setup to find that elusive sweet spot between sinking and support. This mattress was designed to reduce common pressure points and accommodate all body types, but it especially shines for those with chronic hip pain. Unlike memory foam, which can sometimes trap and hold sleepers in an uncomfortable dip, the latex in the Botanical Bliss offers buoyant responsiveness. You gently sink in, but the surface pushes back just enough to keep your hips lifted and your spine aligned. The optional split design even allows couples to choose different firmness levels on each side, a win for partners with different needs. Dr. Cole specifically calls out this model as one of the most reliable for long-term use and natural pain relief. 'Natural latex mattresses typically outlast all other types,' he says, and this one's no exception. It's also GOLS- and GOTS-certified, free of flame retardants, and built to last over a decade, which makes it a wise long-term investment for health-conscious sleepers. Plus, latex is naturally cooling, mold-resistant, and great for allergy sufferers. If you're looking to ease hip discomfort without resorting to overly plush memory foam, the Botanical Bliss is a brilliant alternative. It's ideal for those who want customizable firmness, long-lasting support, and a totally clean sleep environment. You'll sleep cooler, cleaner, and more aligned, which means you'll probably also wake up a lot less grumpy. Mattress type: Hybrid (latex + coils) | Feel: Medium | Material: Organic latex, cotton, wool | Height: 14″ | Number of layers: 6 | Sleep trial: 365 nights | Free shipping: Yes | Warranty: 25 years Best memory foam: Nectar Luxe Hybrid Mattress Nectar Pros: Fully organic, hypoallergenic, and chemical-free Naturally buoyant latex relieves hip pressure without sagging Customizable firmness + split firmness option Extremely durable (12–15+ year lifespan) Cons: Heavy and hard to maneuver alone Pricey compared to conventional foam models The Nectar Luxe Hybrid Mattress is the go-to choice for side sleepers who love the hug of memory foam but hate the night sweats that usually come with it. This 14-inch mattress features multiple layers of gel- and copper-infused foam designed to pull heat away from your body while still offering that plush, sinking-in feeling. It's soft, cozy, and remarkably cool for a memory foam bed. Dr. Christopher Allen recommends the Luxe Hybrid, formerly the Premier Copper Mattress, for side sleepers seeking 'pressure relief and spinal alignment' without sacrificing comfort. He notes that this model's medium-plush feel (around 5/10 firmness) is ideal for lighter-to-average-weight sleepers who need deep contouring around the shoulders and hips. The copper also adds antimicrobial properties.. Bonus points go to the washable, antimicrobial cover and 'forever' warranty, which helps soften the blow of its price tag. If you love the feel of memory foam but want something more breathable and luxe than average, the Luxe Hybrid deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist. Mattress type: Latex | Feel: Medium or Firm (customizable) | Material: GOLS-certified Dunlop latex, organic cotton & wool | Height: 9″, 10″, or 12″ | Layers: 3–4 (based on height) | Sleep trial: 100 nights | Free shipping: Yes | Warranty: 25 years Best cooling: Helix Midnight Luxe Mattress Pros: Zoned lumbar coils relieve pressure while keeping alignment Excellent temperature regulation with GlacioTex cover Great motion isolation Ideal for side sleepers who sleep hot Cons: Slight edge sloping on corners Very heavy; awkward to move solo The Helix Midnight Luxe was designed with side sleepers in mind — but more impressively, it remembers the rest of us, too. The GlacioTex Cooling Cover is a standout feature, offering a cool-to-the-touch feel even on sweaty nights, and the plush pillow top blends plushness with spine-aligning support. Zoned lumbar coils ensure your lower back gets the firmness it needs while your shoulders and hips are free to sink and sigh. Hot side sleepers, in particular, will appreciate the way this mattress keeps heat away, thanks to its hybrid construction and breathable foams. Our reviewer, Senior Director of Commerce Partnerships (and former memory foam martyr), Al Murillo, was converted after years on the wrong mattress. 'The Helix Midnight Luxe has been a game-changer,' he wrote. 'From the personalized sleep quiz to the first night's rest, it's clear this mattress was designed with real-life sleepers in mind.' After four weeks of testing, he raved about the heat regulation, motion isolation, and plush-yet-supportive comfort, especially when paired with the brand's optional GlacioTex upgrade. Helix, founded in 2015, pioneered the 'sleep quiz' that custom-matches shoppers with a mattress based on their body type, sleep position, and preferences. It's no gimmick — this thing works. Our tester loved how the zoned coil system supported their lumbar region without compromising the dreamy give of the top layer. Motion transfer was minimal (even with pets and kids doing midnight acrobatics), and setup was easy, though the mattress is heavy. This is one of the few models that manages to blend luxury hotel comfort with real-life practicality. Dr. Allen, a sleep science advisor, recommends Helix for its balance of 'pressure relief and spinal alignment,' especially in medium-firm hybrids. His advice: 'Side sleepers should aim for a firmness between 4 and 6 out of 10,' and the Helix Midnight Luxe hits that sweet spot. It's plush without being marshmallowy, firm without being unforgiving. It might not be the cheapest, but it's worth every cool, undisturbed hour of sleep. Mattress type: Hybrid | Feel: Medium | Material: Gel memory foam + coils | Height: 14″ | Number of layers: 6 | Sleep trial: 100 nights | Free shipping: Yes How we tested Our mattress evaluations were rooted in both hands-on testing and medical guidance. Over the span of three months, we assessed more than 20 mattresses across various brands, styles, and materials, focusing exclusively on side-sleeper performance. Every mattress was tested for a minimum of two weeks by real people with varying body weights, sleep habits, and chronic pain issues. Each mattress was judged based on: Pressure relief: Did it cradle the hips and shoulders without creating pressure points? Did it cradle the hips and shoulders without creating pressure points? Spinal alignment: Did the spine remain neutral while sleeping on the side? Did the spine remain neutral while sleeping on the side? Motion isolation: Was movement transferred when a partner changed positions? Was movement transferred when a partner changed positions? Edge support: Could we sit or lie on the edge without feeling unstable? Could we sit or lie on the edge without feeling unstable? Cooling and breathability: Did the mattress trap heat or allow airflow? Did the mattress trap heat or allow airflow? Ease of setup: Could the mattress be unboxed and set up without hassle? Could the mattress be unboxed and set up without hassle? Durability projections: Were the materials and construction likely to last 7+ years? To validate our findings, we consulted medical professionals and sleep experts: 'When recommending mattresses for side sleepers, I prioritize pressure relief and materials first,' says Dr. Cole, a functional medicine physician. 'Side sleepers place concentrated pressure on shoulders and hips, which can lead to pain and misalignment. Foam mattresses offer excellent motion isolation, but natural latex provides similar benefits while avoiding chemical exposure.' We also cross-referenced certification standards like GOTS, GOLS, and CertiPUR-US, and confirmed manufacturing quality with each brand's warranty, return policy, and trial period. How to find the best mattress if you're a side sleeper 1. Prioritize pressure relief and spinal alignment The number one feature side sleepers should look for is pressure relief, especially around the shoulders and hips. 'Side sleeping naturally puts more pressure on fewer contact points,' says Dr. Allen, a board-certified sleep medicine physician and neurologist. 'You want a mattress that allows the shoulders and hips to sink just enough to keep the spine neutral.' Look for mattresses with zoned support or responsive contouring layers, like latex or adaptive foam. These materials adapt to the body's curves without collapsing under weight. 2. Choose the right firmness level (4–6 out of 10) Most side sleepers prefer a medium-soft to medium firmness (4 to 6 on a 10-point scale). This ensures enough cushioning for pressure points without sacrificing support. 'A firmness level of 5 to 6 lets the hips and shoulders sink just enough while keeping the lumbar region supported,' says Dr. Cole. 'Heavier individuals may benefit from slightly firmer mattresses to avoid bottoming out.' Remember that firmness is subjective. If you're under 150 pounds, even a 'medium' mattress might feel firm. If you're over 200 pounds, a 'medium' may feel soft. When in doubt, go with a hybrid or customizable mattress. 3. Consider cooling properties Side sleepers tend to have more of their body in contact with the mattress, which can trap heat. Breathability and temperature regulation matter, especially for hot sleepers. 'Memory foam is known to retain the most heat,' says Lauri Leadley, clinical sleep educator. 'Foam is dense and molds to the body, absorbing heat and creating a sweaty sleeping environment.' If you sleep hot, consider: Hybrid mattresses with airflow-promoting coils Latex mattresses, which are naturally cooler than foam Gel- or copper-infused foams Phase-change covers (like TitanCool or ArcticTex) 4. Pay attention to materials and certifications Materials matter — not just for comfort, but for health and longevity. 'Many conventional mattresses contain flame retardants and VOCs that can disrupt hormones and contribute to inflammation,' says Dr. Cole. 'I always recommend organic or certified non-toxic materials.' Look for: GOTS- or GOLS-certified organic cotton, wool, or latex CertiPUR-US certification for safe foams OEKO-TEX Standard 100 labels for textiles Natural latex typically lasts the longest (12–15 years), followed by high-quality hybrids. Avoid cheap polyurethane foam or innerspring mattresses without foam layers — they break down quickly and offer poor pressure relief. 5. Test generously, return wisely 'If you can't remember when you bought your current mattress, it's probably time to get a new one,' says Dr. Michael Gradisar, head of sleep science at Sleep Cycle. 'And if you're waking up sore or groggy, a mattress upgrade is overdue.' Look for companies that offer: 100+ night sleep trials Free returns or low-cost return shipping At least a 10-year warranty (lifetime if possible) A mattress is one of the few purchases you use every single day for nearly a decade — invest accordingly. FAQs of mattresses for side sleepers What firmness is best for side sleepers? 'Most side sleepers do best with medium to medium-soft firmness — around a 5 or 6 on a 10-point scale,' says Dr. Allen. 'It allows the shoulders and hips to sink slightly while maintaining spinal alignment.' If you're heavier (over 200 pounds), you may need something slightly firmer (6–7) to avoid sagging. What is the best mattress for hip or shoulder pain? 'People with pain should prioritize proper support and pressure point relief using non-toxic materials,' says Dr. Cole. 'For hip and shoulder pain, look for zoned support — natural latex or coils with organic comfort layers are ideal.' Models like the PlushBeds Botanical Bliss are excellent for relieving concentrated pain in side-sleeper zones. Are memory foam mattresses good for side sleepers? Yes, but not all foams are created equal. 'Memory foam offers excellent contouring and motion isolation,' says Dr. Gradisar, 'but it can retain heat and may off-gas VOCs. If that concerns you, natural latex or hybrids are a better choice.' Look for copper or gel-infused foams for better cooling, or hybrids with breathable construction. Do I need a mattress topper if I sleep on my side? Sometimes. If your mattress is too firm but still supportive, a topper can add plushness without the cost of a new mattress. 'I often recommend latex or wool toppers to clients who need more give but don't want to compromise support,' says Dr. Cole. How long should a mattress last for a side sleeper? Latex: 12–15 years Hybrid: 8–10 years Foam: 5–7 years 'The better constructed, the longer they last,' says Leadley. 'Protect it with a cover, rotate it every 6 months, and avoid cheap foam mattresses if you want long-term support.' Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted. For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance. We're not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products, and consult experts on any topics we aren't already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we're known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. 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Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Senator Cynthia Lummis' son-in-law is not a fan of Ripple
Senator Cynthia Lummis' son-in-law is not a fan of Ripple originally appeared on TheStreet. Brad Garlinghouse, the billionaire CEO of the blockchain and payments firm Ripple, recently decried Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) cancelling a meeting with him. As previously reported, Garlinghouse claimed on May 19 that Sen. Lummis — who chairs the Digital Assets Subcommittee — cancelled a meeting with him, which she won't reschedule. Even though President Donald Trump has included XRP among the cryptocurrencies that will make up the U.S. digital assets stockpile, Sen. Lummis is a Bitcoin maximalist. In fact, the BITCOIN Act introduced by Lummis aims to legislate Trump's executive order to establish a strategic Bitcoin reserve. However, it seems there is more to the senator reportedly cancelling the meeting than meets the eye. Sen. Lummis's son-in-law, Will Cole, is also a Bitcoin maximalist like her. Not only that, he frequently criticizes Ripple, underlined a popular crypto account on X called The user pointed out to Garlinghouse that Cole has been sharing Catholic Bitcoin CEO Pierre Rochard's posts criticizing Ripple for the company's alleged anti-Bitcoin and pro-CBDC stances. Garlinghouse responded to the post, saying it was "enlightening" to know that Cole is related to Sen. Lummis. "I really have to wonder if this was Sen. Lummis or someone on her staff making this decision," he added. Crypto lawyer Bill Morgan also shared screenshots of Cole's posts from 2021 and 2022 criticizing Ripple and XRP for its alleged centralized model. Bitcoin vs. XRP discourse isn't new. While the former is the largest cryptocurrency, the latter is the fourth-largest cryptocurrency. While Ripple is criticized for its centralized leadership, Bitcoin is criticized for its adverse environmental impact. In 2023, a Canadian artist Benjamin Von Wong teamed up with Greenpeace USA to create an art installation called the "Skull of Satoshi" to raise awareness about Bitcoin's energy usage. Guess who else turned up to support the initiative? Ripple co-founder Chris Larsen. Though the Bitcoin community embraced the installation soon enough, the Ripple CEO recently made an effort to bridge the gap between different crypto communities by donating the installation to the community. BTC, XRP, and other crypto communities have "more in common than we think," Garlinghouse said. There is a political overture to the Bitcoin vs. XRP discourse as well. Ripple has made significant political donations to Trump — including the firm's chief legal officer Stuart Alderoty personally donating $300,000 in XRP to Trump's 2024 presidential campaign and Ripple Labs donating $5 million in XRP to his inaugural committee. Ripple, which had been battling a years-long securities violations case with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), saw the regulator attempting to settle with it following Trump's election victory. But the Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris's campaign also found support at Ripple. Co-founder Chris Larsen donated $10 million worth of XRP to Harris during the campaign. It is, however, not uncommon for companies to make donations to both parties during election campaigns. Since Trump's inauguration, XRP has declined 25% in value to trade at $2.20 at press time, as per Kraken. Though Bitcoin's value has declined 4% since Trump's inauguration, his coming to power has only led to the king coin's surge. BTC first hit its record high of $109,241 on Jan. 20, ahead of his inauguration ceremony. It then recently hit another record high of $111,970.17 on May 22. As per Kraken, it was trading at $104,759.32 at press time. Senator Cynthia Lummis' son-in-law is not a fan of Ripple first appeared on TheStreet on May 30, 2025 This story was originally reported by TheStreet on May 30, 2025, where it first appeared. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
25-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Doctors Reveal the Crucial Vitamin Combo You Need to Start Taking
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." Some things just go better together — and that includes certain vitamins and minerals. Whether you want to get more from your supplements or plan a more balanced plate, pairing complementary vitamins and minerals is a win for your health. 'Certain nutrients work synergistically, meaning one helps the other absorb more efficiently in the body,' says Nicholas Church, M.D., a board-certified family medicine physician and founder of Somerset Medical. 'In my 24 years of practicing medicine, I've seen how simple adjustments — like combining the right nutrients — can lead to improved lab results and long-term health benefits.' Another potential perk? Saving on supplements, says Will Cole, I.F.M.C.P., D.N.M., D.C., a leading functional medicine expert and best-selling author. 'Understanding synergistic relationships allows you to maximize nutritional benefits while using fewer supplements,' says Cole. 'Rather than taking random supplements, this knowledge can help you support your wellbeing in a more intentional and effective way.' Ahead, experts share the dynamic duos that can give your health a boost. You may already associate vitamin D and calcium with healthy bones. Here's a lesser-known connection: Vitamin D in the gut. 'Without sufficient vitamin D, you might absorb only about 10 to 15% of the calcium you eat, compared to roughly 30 to 40% absorption with adequate vitamin D levels,' says Dr. Church. 'I recommend pairing calcium-rich foods or supplements with vitamin D, or ensuring you have enough vitamin D overall so that calcium is effectively absorbed into the body.'$20.99 at at at at at at Magnesium is essential for many metabolic processes, from regulating muscle and nerve function to blood sugar levels. Vitamin B6 provides essential support, helping to improve the absorption of magnesium in your intestines. 'Vitamin B6 helps more magnesium enter into your bloodstream,' explains Cole. 'What's more, magnesium plays a role in activating vitamin B6 into its useful form in the body. Whether patients are taking magnesium for muscle health or sleep, I often recommend taking it with a B6 source, so that each nutrient can boost the other's effectiveness.' As an added perk, shows that magnesium and vitamin B6 can help relieve stress when taken together. Iron is an important nutrient for healthy blood, and vitamin C plays a significant role in helping your body absorb it. You can call them a power couple: Research shows that pairing these nutrients in a meal together is more effective than eating them separately. This same synergistic effect applies if you're taking iron supplements. 'If you consume iron-rich foods or an iron supplement alongside a source of vitamin C — like a glass or orange juice — it helps convert iron into a form that's easier for your body to absorb,' explains Dr. Church. 'This pairing is especially beneficial to vegetarians or anyone looking to naturally improve their iron levels.' Vitamin A supports your vision, skin health, immune system and more — but it depends on zinc to do its job. Zinc deficiency of vitamin A, and because these deficiencies tend to occur at the same time, it's a smart move to combine these nutrients. 'I've seen firsthand that vitamin A, whether from foods like carrots or supplements, doesn't get processed as efficiently when people are low in zinc,' says Dr. Church. 'Ensuring you get enough zinc from zinc-rich foods, like beans or shellfish, when you're also eating vitamin A-rich foods helps these nutrients work together so vitamin A can be effectively absorbed and transported in the body.' Antioxidants are molecules that protect your cells from damage — and together, they're even more powerful. are a prime example of complementary antioxidants that make an excellent team. Selenium has the ability to help 'recycle' vitamin E in your body, bringing it back to its active form to fight even more free radicals. 'By getting both nutrients — for instance, eating selenium-rich Brazil nuts along with vitamin E-rich almonds or spinach — you enhance the antioxidant impact,' says Dr. Church. Talk about a triple threat: This fat-soluble vitamin trio works synergistically to support bone health, immune function and proper calcium utilization. Together, vitamin D, vitamin K, and vitamin A help ensure that your body functions at its best. 'Vitamin K2 helps direct calcium to bones rather than soft tissues when vitamin D increases calcium absorption, while vitamin A balances the immune-regulating properties of vitamin D,' says Dr. Cole. It's also important to remember that not all vitamins and minerals get along. Some nutrients actually counteract each other, which means spacing them out is a smarter approach. Some examples of vitamin combinations to avoid include: Iron and calcium Iron and zinc Calcium and magnesium Vitamin B12 and Vitamin C Copper and zinc Yes, certain nutrients can supercharge the healthy powers of other nutrients when you take them together. But ultimately, synergy is more than just pairing the right nutrients — timing, balance and individual needs matter, too. Always talk to your healthcare provider before adding potential supplements to your routine to make sure they're safe and effective for you. You Might Also Like 67 Best Gifts for Women That'll Make Her Smile The Best Pillows for Every Type of Sleeper
New York Post
02-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Do EMF-blocking products work? Separating helpful from hype
Nothing but 'net. Electromagnetic fields are all around us — power lines and household appliances produce extremely low frequency EMFs, whereas cell phones and Wi-Fi devices emit radiofrequency EMFs. The general consensus in the medical and scientific communities is that low-frequency EMFs do not pose a significant health risk, while research continues into the effects of radiofrequency EMF exposure. Advertisement 4 Research on the potential health effects of cell phone radiation is ongoing. Pixel-Shot – Growing concerns about the dangers of EMFs have fueled an onslaught of products designed to block radiation, from laptop pads, phone stickers and shielding paint to hooded ponchos and even silver fiber skivvies. In a market saturated with EMF-protection gadgets, knowing what actually works — and what's just shiny garbage — is harder than ever. Advertisement Functional medicine practitioner Will Cole, who advises Gwyneth Paltrow and other celebs, told The Post he takes a 'middle ground view' on EMF mitigation. He leaves his cell phone outside his bedroom when he sleeps, turns Wi-Fi off at night and connects his laptop at work to the internet via Ethernet, not Wi-Fi. He also sometimes keeps his phone in a faraday bag, designed to block radio signals such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS. Cell phones cannot receive calls or texts in these pouches because the conductive material redistributes electromagnetic energy. 'There's enough research out there that I'm taking a more precautionary, conservative approach around it,' Cole said. 'I know more exposure isn't better. It's not helping me at all, so I want to limit it as much as possible.' Advertisement 4 Dr. Will Cole has advised Gwyneth Paltrow, Sophia Bush, Cameron Diaz and other celebrities. Dr. Will Cole Just this week, a review of 52 animal studies suggested a potential link between cell phone radiation exposure and increased risk of certain cancers in lab animals. The findings prompted scientists from the International Commission on the Biological Effects of Electromagnetic Fields (ICBE-EMF) to renew their call for governments to strengthen regulatory limits on wireless radiation. Advertisement 'Since animal testing results are used by public health agencies for predicting risks to human health, these findings are a significant warning that need to be used by governments to develop science-based limits to cell phone radiation that are protective of human health,' ICBE-EMF chair Ron Melnick told The Post. The FCC has established radiofrequency exposure limits for cell phones, Wi-Fi and cell towers, but some groups like ICBE-EMF argue these limits are outdated and insufficient to protect public health. In the meantime, the ICBE-EMF recommends keeping cell phones out of pants pockets, utilizing landlines with wired handsets, turning cell phones to airplane mode when not in use and opting for wired internet connections like Ethernet. 4 It's generally not recommended to sleep next to your phone. Microgen – Cole said everyone has to create their own healthy boundaries with technology. He likened individual tolerances for stressors to 'buckets' that can be big or small. 'A lot of people's buckets are at the brink of the tipping point, and that's when health problems ensue,' Cole explained. Some people report experiencing headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep disturbances and troubles concentrating due to electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS), which is not widely recognized as a medical diagnosis but is gaining more awareness. Advertisement 'If somebody has a smaller bucket, they may have to do more EMF mitigation. They may have to look at things like mold. They may have to look at things like their food a little bit more specifically,' Cole said. 'But some people can smoke and drink and live a long, healthy life — those are the big bucket people.' 4 Faraday bags (seen here) are designed to block radio signals such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS thanks to their conductive material. Amazon A nervous Nelly may take drastic measures to reduce their EMF exposure. Michael McKean's whip-smart but troubled lawyer character on 'Better Call Saul' wrapped himself in a space blanket and avoided the outside world. Advertisement A chiropractor who goes by 'DoctorEMF' trained an Aussie blue heeler to pick up on his sensitivities, and a holistic health specialist at a recent biohackers conference copped to 'sleeping on an anti-aging mattress in an EMF-remediated building.' Cole said he doesn't typically recommend buying devices to lessen EMF exposure, instead, he works with patients to make 'practical, measurable, realistic changes.' He noted that 'there's not a lot of compelling research' supporting EMF-blocking devices, though he has found the faraday technology effective. Advertisement What's important is not going overboard and creating an 'EMF bubble.' 'Having stress and anxiety around EMF isn't good for your health,' he said. 'We want to be proactive, but not overly reactionary.'
New York Post
01-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
NAD+ supplements are beloved by biohackers, celebs — do they work?
You know about DNA, but you may not have heard of NAD. You wouldn't be alive without it. NAD — short for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide — is critical for energy production, DNA repair and cell survival. Scientists are investigating the potential for NAD+, the active form of NAD, to slow aging, boost brain health and increase disease resilience. 6 NAD+, the active form of NAD, is being studied for its potential to slow aging, boost brain health and increase disease resilience. New Africa – 'It's not new, but the research around the longevity, health span of it has really exploded,' functional medicine practitioner Will Cole, who advises Gwyneth Paltrow and other celebs, told The Post about NAD. 'I think that's why you're hearing more and more of it.' Because levels naturally decline with age, NAD+ tests, supplements and infusions have become big business. Here's the 411 on NAD as it sweeps Hollywood, finding fans in Jennifer Aniston and Hailey Bieber. What's NAD? NAD is a coenzyme, which means that it helps other enzymes function. 'It is vital for activating enzymes called sirtuins and PARPs — classes of enzymes involved in DNA repair, longevity and inflammation,' Daniel Puleston, an assistant professor of oncological sciences at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, told The Post. 'For these reasons, NAD plays a fundamental role in humans and all other living organisms.' 6 NAD is critical for energy production, DNA repair and cell survival. You wouldn't be alive without it. thatinchan – It's essential for the production of cellular energy in the form of ATP. Longevity biomarker scientist Jin-Xiong She likens ATP to cellular gasoline. ATP is primarily produced in mitochondria, the 'powerhouses' of cells. 'If you don't have enough NAD, your mitochondria don't function efficiently,' She told the audience at a recent biohackers conference. 'You don't produce enough ATP, but you produce more free radicals that can damage your DNA, damage your cell membrane — and that's one of the major causes of disease.' Where do we get NAD? 'Our two big sources of NAD are tryptophan, a protein product we can find in foods like red meat, dairy, poultry, nuts and beans, and some B vitamins,' Dr. Ayodele Oyeyemi, a Northwell Health geriatrician, told The Post. 'We also recycle it in our bodies.' 6 Turkey is a good source of tryptophan, which the body can convert into niacin, a precursor for NAD. Alamy Supplements are another route. You can take NAD+, but the tablets are poorly absorbed by the body. Instead, the focus is on precursors like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide) and NR (nicotinamide riboside), which convert into NAD+ in the body. NMN is produced from nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B 3 . NMN can be found in small amounts in broccoli, edamame, avocados and cabbage. NR is also a form of B 3 — it can be in milk, fermented beverages and yeast-containing foods. 6 NMN, an NAD+ precursor, can be found in small amounts in broccoli, edamame, avocados and cabbage. bukhta79 – 'Oral supplementation of NAD precursors in humans, such as with nicotinamide riboside and nicotinamide mononucleotide, has shown to be safe over shorter periods (months) and successfully raise blood NAD levels,' Puleston said. 'However, results have been mixed, with many studies reporting no benefit for NAD treatment in areas such as metabolic performance, while others have reported modest improvements in muscle performance.' How can we tell if we're low on NAD+? Research suggests that NAD+ levels can significantly decrease with age, but this process isn't well understood. Naturopathic doctor Sogol Ash said fatigue, neurological decline and brain fog are key symptoms of deficiency. 'We get an increase in that oxidative stress, those ugly cells, immune dysfunction, inflammaging — that's like chronic low-grade inflammation that leads to disease,' Ash said at the biohackers conference. Ash and other longevity enthusiasts recommend testing to figure out your NAD+ levels and experimenting with supplementation to improve those numbers. Jin-Xiong She, for one, sells a $198 finger-prick test designed to 'reveal your deficiency and provide actionable data to effectively enhance your NAD levels.' 6 NAD+ IVs have become very popular, especially among celebrities. Seventyfour – Before you get out your credit card, Puleston and Oyeyemi cautioned that at-home NAD+ testing kits aren't worth your time or money. Puleston pointed out that there's no universal consensus on what constitutes 'high,' 'adequate' or 'low' NAD+ levels. 'And although levels decline in some tissues when comparing young versus old, we don't quite yet understand if those decreases are meaningful or have a consequential impact on health,' he said. How can we boost NAD+ levels? Besides capsules, there are also NAD+ IVs, injections, nasal sprays and topical creams, but the research is limited there too. 'IV administration of NR and NMN has been shown to safely increase NAD levels in blood,' Puleston said. 'There is a lack of trials assessing the capacity of IV NAD therapy to positively impact overall health, but a small study did report improvements in cognition and neurological function.' 6 Hailey Bieber at the 3rd Annual Academy Museum Gala on Dec. 3, 2023. The Hollywood Reporter via Getty Images Aniston, 56, and Bieber, 28, have endorsed NAD+ IV therapy, with Bieber declaring that she's going to 'NAD for the rest of my life, and I'm never gonna age.' Ash — an adviser for Niagen Bioscience, which sells NAD+ products — is also a fan. She takes 1,000 milligrams of NR in the morning and does IV therapy with 1,000 mg of NR twice a month. 'NAD isn't something that just builds up and stays in your body. You're constantly using it. You're constantly turning over mitochondria,' Ash said. 'You're constantly using energy, so you have to keep taking NR.' Cole, the functional medicine practitioner, prefers oral supplementation to IVs. When he consistently consumes an NAD precursor, he 'definitely can notice a difference in increased energy.' Still, he suggests supporting NAD+ levels through weight training, better nutrition and inflammation reduction. 'There's not going to be one magic pill where it's like, 'This is it. This is the holy grail of supplements,' and it's going to solve all your woes,' he said.
