Podcasts about connection between stress

Ever feel bloated, sluggish, or like your energy is running on fumes? It might not be just stress, aging, or bad luck—it could be your gut health.In this episode of the Midlife Mavericks Podcast, I sit down with Functional Medicine Practitioner Lorraine Cussen to break down leaky gut—what it is, what causes it, and why it matters for men in midlife.Lorraine shares her personal journey of struggling with health issues, how she turned things around, and why gut health became her passion and life's work.What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ What the heck is leaky gut? (and why it's more common than you think)✅ How stress, diet, and alcohol damage your gut without you realizing it✅ The symptoms of a damaged gut—fatigue, brain fog, bloating, joint pain, and more✅ Why most doctors overlook gut health (and what functional medicine does differently)✅ How to heal your gut naturally—the foods, supplements, and habits that actually workLorraine and I dive deep into how chronic stress wrecks digestion, how food can be either medicine or poison, and why your gut is the foundation of everything—your energy, your metabolism, even your testosterone levels.Your gut is talking to you. Are you listening?

Are you longing to feel physically lighter while staying true to a wellness journey that's about more than just weight loss? In this episode, functional nutritionist and chronic illness coach Danielle Pashko reveals the impact of stress on women's health and weight gain.   During the conversation, Danielle explores how intense workouts and elevated stress levels can negatively affect hormonal balance and women's ability to release weight. She emphasizes the importance of nourishing habits like a proper diet, sleep, hydration and stress management.   Danielle shares how embracing softer, ancient practices like Tai Chi and Qigong can better your overall emotional, mental and physical wellness.   Here's what you can look forward to in today's episode: The risk of following every wellness trend The importance of self-love and self-respect How stress can impact weight loss Lessons about true health and happiness Embracing softer wellness practices The power of Tai Chi and Kung Fu Reflection question to ponder: Who do you want to be in 2025?    Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Free 5-Minute Guided Meditation l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Danielle: Instagram | Website

In this episode of the Gutsy Health podcast, Dr. Jeff Wright shares his personal journey through health challenges, including gallbladder issues and the impact of stress on his body. The episode then explores the intricate connections between stress, healing, and overall health, focusing on topics like gut health, digestive function, and the impact of chronic stress on the adrenal glandsand immune system. Juanique and Dr Wright discuss how unresolved childhood trauma and chronic activation of the fight-or-flight response can lead to issues like adrenal fatigue, hormonal imbalances, and brain health challenges.The conversation highlights tools for healing, including resilience-building practices, mindset shifts, and innovative therapies like neurofeedback and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Listeners will also learn how the gallbladder, liver, thyroid, and mitochondria are affected with high cortisol levels. Whether you're navigating chronic illness or striving for better self-care, this episode offers actionable insights for long-term wellness.Topic Discussed:00:00 Dr Wrights Healing Journey 5:50 Understanding Stress and Its Impact on Health. Why people get stuck with healing8:00 Chronic Stress and Its Implications.  The Fight or Flight Response13:21 Adrenal Maladaptation and Hormonal Imbalance20:35 Understanding Stressors Beyond the Obvious35:51 The Connection Between Stress and Gut Health22:55 Stress on the Immune System24:30 Mitochondrial Health and Stress Management27:50 The Role of Digestion in Stress Response33:50 The Impact of Stress on Liver Health36:03 Hormonal Interplay: Stress, Thyroid, and Sex Hormones44:10 Chronic Stress and Brain Health46:20 Practical Strategies for Stress ManagementTo check out the FREE class on Digestion mentioned in the podcast go to https://www.mygutsyhealth.com/free-1st-class-digestion-courseSend us a text

Over 300 million people worldwide are affected by erectile dysfunction, and Dr Mohit Khera has the scientific solutions you were afraid to ask for     Dr Mohit Khera is a Professor of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine specialising in male and female sexual dysfunction. He is also the co-author of the book, ‘RE-COUPLING: A Couple's 4-step Guide to Greater Intimacy and Better Sex'.    In this conversation, Dr Mohit and Steven discuss topics such as, the benefits of healthy testosterone levels, how erectile dysfunction impacts your mental health, the link between obesity and erectile dysfunction, and the 4 components of female sexual dysfunction.  00:00 Intro 02:17 Who Is Mohit and What Does He Do? 02:47 What Is a Sexspan and Why Does It Matter? 03:58 Is It Possible to Make Sexspan Last as Long as Lifespan? 05:15 Mohit's Professional Experience and the People He's Worked With 07:14 The Most Popular Things People Ask Mohit and Why They Come to See Him 11:26 Most Common Reason for Low Libido: How Much of It Is Related to Compatibility? 15:35 What Is Libido? 15:54 Connection Between Erectile Dysfunction and Low Libido 18:53 What Are the Side Effects of ED Pills? 21:34 The Biggest Side Effect of Cialis 22:00 Who Shouldn't Take Cialis? 23:42 Treatment for Sexual Dysfunction in Women 25:52 Connection Between Stress and Dopamine 27:21 Types of Activities That Raise Dopamine Levels 29:37 How Much Does Pornography Contribute to Low Libido? 31:08 Why Do People Have Less Sex Nowadays? 32:30 Role of Pornography in Shifting Sexual Behaviors 36:42 Connection Between Obesity and Sexual Dysfunction 39:23 Losing Weight Boosts Testosterone Levels 40:29 Impact of Testosterone Therapy on Sexual Activity 42:37 Should Someone Like Steven Be Taking Testosterone? 44:31 Testosterone Therapy in Women 47:25 HRT for Women 49:05 The Decline in Testosterone 50:38 What Lifestyle Changes Should We Make to Increase Fertility? 55:53 If a Couple Came to You With Sexual Problems, What Would You Focus on Naturally? 01:00:11 40% of Men at 40 Will Have ED 01:01:38 The Stigma Around ED 01:03:31 Personal Experiences With Sexual Dysfunction 01:06:07 The Impact of Kids on Sex Lives 01:07:03 Premature Ejaculation 01:10:15 Is Testosterone Dangerous? 01:11:41 Will Taking Testosterone Injections Reduce My Lifespan? 01:13:53 Links Between Depression and Testosterone 01:15:14 The Importance of Communication for Sex 01:16:18 Improving Sexual Dysfunction in Men and Women 01:17:13 Pain During Sex for Women 01:18:47 How Do We Improve Communication in the Bedroom? 01:20:58 Are There Any Risks to Vibrators? 01:23:54 Abnormal Curvature of the Penis 01:25:20 Cures for ED That Aren't Pills 01:27:11 The Role Trauma Plays in Sexual Dysfunction 01:28:08 Erection Devices 01:32:43 Is There Anything You Cannot Explain? Follow Dr Mohit:  Instagram - https://g2ul0.app.link/L3Z03S4WqPb  Twitter - https://g2ul0.app.link/JlcpMx8WqPb  Website - https://g2ul0.app.link/T7gIUo6WqPb  You can purchase Dr Mohit's book, ‘RE-COUPLING: A Couple's 4-step Guide to Greater Intimacy and Better Sex', here: https://g2ul0.app.link/xExobrcXqPb  Watch the episodes on Youtube - https://g2ul0.app.link/DOACEpisodes  My new book! 'The 33 Laws Of Business & Life' is out now - https://g2ul0.app.link/DOACBook  Join the waitlist to be the first to hear about the next drop of The 1% Diary! https://bit.ly/1-Diary-Megaphone-ad-reads You can purchase the The Diary Of A CEO Conversation Cards: Second Edition, here: https://g2ul0.app.link/f31dsUttKKb  Follow me: https://g2ul0.app.link/gnGqL4IsKKb  Sponsors: Linkedin Jobs - https://www.linkedin.com/doac PerfectTed - https://www.perfectted.com with code DIARY40 for 40% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From practical techniques like diaphragmatic breathing and mindfulness to adaptogenic herbs, nutritional support, and the importance of building body awareness, Dr. G covers the full spectrum of holistic weight management. Tune in to explore how healing the nervous system can be a foundational key to achieving sustainable weight loss. #weightloss #diet #wellness  === Thank You To Our Sponsors!  Nuzest Go to https://nuzest-usa.com/drg and use code DRG for 20% off all products. Puori  Click here https://puori.com/drg and use code DRG for 20% off the already discounted subscription prices. === Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction: The Connection Between Weight Gain and Nervous System 00:01:14 - Importance of Understanding Emotions in Weight Loss 00:03:04 - Exploring the Complexities of Repressed Emotions and Weight Gain 00:03:53 - Discussion on Emotional Roots of Weight Gain 00:04:30 - The Role of Trauma and Chronic Stress in Weight Gain 00:05:27 - Impact of Cortisol on Weight and Metabolism 00:06:40 - Emotional Eating and Its Connection to Repressed Emotions 00:08:08 - Statistics on Trauma and Centralized Obesity 00:09:04 - Chronic Inflammation and Its Effects on Metabolism 00:09:32 - Nervous System Dysregulation and Its Role in Weight Gain 00:11:01 - The Body's Energy Conservation Mode 00:13:22 - Connection Between Gut Issues and Weight Management 00:13:45 - Benefits of Higher Vagal Tone on Metabolic Health 00:18:28 - Trauma and Its Impact on Metabolic Function 00:19:30 - Effects of Stress and Trauma on Weight Management 00:20:03 - Connection Between Nervous System and Weight Gain 00:21:39 - The Link Between Chronic Stress and Insulin Resistance 00:23:00 - Consequences of Insulin Resistance on Energy Use 00:23:20 - Chronic Inflammation and Leptin Resistance 00:23:46 - Effects of Inflammation on Hunger Signals 00:25:02 - How Stress Alters Thyroid Hormones 00:25:20 - The Connection Between Stress and Metabolic Rate 00:27:08 - Enhancing Body IQ for Nervous System Regulation 00:27:51 - Techniques for Diaphragmatic Breathing 00:28:54 - The Importance of Relaxation in Breathing 00:29:22 - Activating the Vagus Nerve Through Breathing 00:30:36 - The Role of Somatic Practices in Emotional Release 00:31:02 - Alignments with Circadian Rhythms for Stress Management 00:31:30 - Mindfulness Practices for Body Awareness 00:31:47 - Benefits of Consistent Mindfulness on Inflammation 00:32:24 - Adaptogenic Herbs for Supporting Adrenal Health 00:32:44 - Nutritional Support for Stress Tolerance 00:33:07 - Importance of Nutrients for Hormonal and Metabolic Health 00:33:46 - Listening to Your Body: Fitness and Rest 00:34:46 - Benefits of Low-Impact Exercises 00:35:07 - The Role of Strength Training in Weight Management 00:36:32 - Importance of Muscle-Centric Solutions 00:37:03 - Overview of Weight Gain Factors 00:38:31 - Conclusion: Emotional Repression and Weight Loss

Discover the powerful communication path between your spirit and your body.  I this amazing livestream recording, I sit down with Christine Lang, a former attorney now medical intuitive, to share her remarkable journey from law to holistic healing. Christine reveals how she overcame chronic allergies through alternative medicine and meditation, showcasing the deep connection between stress and physical symptoms. Discover insights into energy healing, spiritual communication, and managing stress to enhance well-being. Learn about the innate ability everyone has for personal and familial healing, the importance of setting boundaries, and the role of beliefs in health. Christine spotlights her gifts for many participants on the call, listening to their Higher Self to gain insights on the root of physical problems being experienced - from my own stomach bug to multiple sclerosis. Christine discusses maintaining energetic boundaries for therapists, practical self-care techniques, and provides details on how to stay updated with her latest offerings. This engaging discussion is filled with personal stories, practical advice, and inspirational messages for anyone on a healing journey. 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:30 Christine Lang's Journey to Becoming a Medical Intuitive 04:16 Understanding the Connection Between Stress and Physical Symptoms 09:53 The Role of Spirit in Healing and Guidance 25:24 Interactive Q&A Session Begins 31:29 Messages for Moving Forward 32:06 Understanding Soul Purpose 34:51 Right and Left Side Body Symptoms 36:51 Energetic Boundaries and Therapy 44:06 Energetic Hygiene Practices 45:27 Influencing Gene Expressions 50:28 Healing the Wounded Child 53:22 Connecting with Christine Lang Resources:  Explore all of Christine's offerings: https://www.christinelang.org Register for future livestreams with guests just as amazing as Christine! And these are free! https://www.karagoodwin.com/livestream-events2

Ever wonder how stress might be wreaking havoc on your digestive health - and what you can do to fix it? Welcome back to the Dr. Kinney show! In this episode, we're looking at the intricate relationship between stress and digestive health. I'll talk about how stress impacts different parts of our digestive system and how it can contribute to issues like leaky gut, IBS, and reflux.  I'll also break down the normal digestive process, highlighting why it's so important to maintain a balanced pH in the body and how stress can throw that balance off. We'll explore how stress-induced changes in stomach acidity can lead to malabsorption and imbalances in the microbiome, like SIBO.  To help with these issues, I'll share some practical tips, like taking deep belly breaths and using digestive enzymes to support your digestion when you're feeling stressed. Plus, I'll encourage you to practice mindfulness around meals, which can do wonders for your digestive health.In Today's Episode We Discuss ·        How Stress Significantly Impacts Digestive Health·        Looking At The Normal Digestive Process·        Impact of Stress on Digestion·        Why Deep Breathing Helps Digestion ·        Common Digestive Issues from Stress·        The Way Stress Disrupts Stomach Acidity and Balance·        Tips for Managing Stress-Related Digestive IssuesRemember, while stress can significantly impact digestion, there are simple, effective ways to support your gut—like deep breathing, using digestive enzymes, and practicing mindfulness around your meals. Take care of yourself, and know that even small changes in how you manage stress can make a big difference for your digestive health. Where We Can Connect Listen on Your Favorite Podcast PlatformFollow the PodcastWatch & Subscribe on YouTubeFollow Me on InstagramConnect With Me on Facebook  Follow & Review On Apple PodcastsAre you following the podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to follow today so you don't miss any future episodes! I have so many amazing guests and topics lined up, I would hate for you to miss a single one!  Click here to follow on Apple Podcasts. Could I ask a big favor? If you are loving the show, I would LOVE it if you would leave me a review on Apple Podcasts. I read each and every one!  Wondering how to leave a review? Click here to review, then select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review”.  So easy and so appreciated! 

In this episode of Life Rewired, Zach and Kris explore how stress can sabotage your fat loss, body transformation goals and overall health. Drawing from personal experiences, Zach shares his journey of leaving a corporate job, building a business, and overtraining, while Kris reflects on stressful seasons where anxiety and sleepless nights stalled her progress despite cutting calories. They explain how chronic stress elevates cortisol, leading to increased fat storage, reduced insulin sensitivity, and muscle breakdown—all of which make fat loss more challenging. Lack of sleep and stress-induced cravings for sugary, high-fat foods further complicate efforts to maintain a calorie deficit. To help manage stress and improve fat loss, Zach and Kris offer practical tools that you can begin implementing into your life today. Tune in to learn how managing stress can unlock the physical results you've been striving for. NASH BARS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nashnutrition.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ EVERYDAY ATHLETE COACHING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQvqk2RRjWuM7z59WZFI7KR7UkJSW7THEizsvZBWclkZQKcA/viewform ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ EVERYDAY ATHLETE NEWSLETTER: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://everyday-athlete.ck.page/55f3c4e52f ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ BUILT AND BALANCED COACHING: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV_IGO2VhRV415iIsiHz6TGr76wuH-loG2eGt068pZG474qw/viewform ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ BUILT & BALANCED NEWSLETTER: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://builtandbalanced.ck.page/b80e86723c ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LIFE REWIRED IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/LIFEREWIREDPODCAST/?utm_medium=copy_link ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ZACH IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/zachturnure/?hl=en ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ KRIS IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/kristinaturnure/?hl=en

The critical role of Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) in digestion and immune defense. HCL is highlighted as a key player in protecting the body from harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites, with a focus on how stress can reduce its production, leaving the body vulnerable to infections. The episode also covers the benefits of HCL in addressing sinus issues, GERD, and ulcers, along with its ability to break down biofilms that shield harmful pathogens.Practical advice is shared on how to incorporate HCL supplements into a wellness routine for optimal gut health. Emphasizing the connection between mental health and digestion, the discussion provides tips on how to gradually increase HCL intake to prevent detox reactions and discomfort. Whether it's for heartburn relief, food poisoning prevention, or general digestive support, HCL is recommended as a versatile and effective solution.Highlights of the Podcast00:03 - Introduction to HCL (Hydrochloric Acid)01:00 - Hydrochloric Acid (HCL) and Its Function.02:07 - Connection Between Stress and Digestive Health03:14 - Benefits of HCL for Sinus Issues and Food Poisoning04:37 - Biofilms and HCL's Role in Breaking Them Down06:02 - HCL as a Treatment for Ulcers and GERD07:28 - Personal Experience and Supplement Recommendations09:05 - Detox Reaction from HCL and Proper Usage

Are you tired of being held back by self-doubt and negative self-talk? In this empowering video, "Eliminate Self-Doubt and Boost Confidence Using This Simple Trick (2024)," we reveal a powerful method to transform your mindset and cultivate unshakeable confidence. Discover how to silence that inner critic and replace it with positive affirmations that inspire action and growth.Join us as we explore effective techniques to identify and eliminate negative self-talk, empowering you to take control of your thoughts and beliefs. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal life, professional endeavors, or social interactions, this simple trick can pave the way to a more confident you. Don't let self-doubt define your potential! Tune in to learn practical tips and strategies that can help you embrace self-love and a positive mindset. Subscribe for more insightful content and take the first step toward a confident, fulfilled life today!Join The FREE FB Group ( Daily Value, Weekly Live Trainings, Great Community)

Dr. Kasey Jo Orvidas is a health psychologist and a certified fitness coach with a Ph.D in Psychology, Her mission: Helping you build strong bodies and healthy lifestyles, starting with your mindset. She has dedicated her career to understanding how cognitive processes influence fitness, nutrition, and overall wellness.In today's episode, Kasey joins us to explore the concept of stress, the mindsets we have built around stressful situations and reactions, and how our perception of stress impacts our overall health more significantly than the stress itself. We discuss the intricate relationship between stress, self-control, self-sabotage, and decision-making, the concept of Future Self and how it can help us in making helpful decisions, the complexities behind having a growth or fixed mindset, how stepping back and becoming an observer of your thoughts can help shape our mindsets and futures. And more…This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the deeper effects of stress on mental and physical health, and for practical tips on how to transform stress into a catalyst for change.“It really does come down to the meaning that you're assigning and the perception that you have.”- Dr. Kasey Jo Orvidas“You're diverting your mental resources to being stressed out rather than to being productive and staying focused. Stress and self-control are enemies in a way.”- Dr. Kasey Jo OrvidasThis week on Here's the Deal:How mental framing can dictate our physiological and emotional responsesUnderstanding that cortisol is a necessary component of healthHow the perception of stress impacts our overall health more significantly than the stress itselfThe role of self-awareness in changing our relationship with stressThe truth about a Growth vs. Fixed MindsetThe link between stress and self-controlThe idea of Future Self and how it can help us in making helpful decisionsHow becoming an “observer” of your thoughts helps shape our mindsets and futuresConnect with Dr. Kasey Jo Orvidas:Dr. Kasey Jo Orvidas on InstagramDr. Kasey Jo Orvidas WebsiteHealth Mindset Coaching CertificationThanks for tuning in to this week's episode of Here's the Deal: Fitness, Nutrition, and Mindset for People Who Don't Want Life to Suck, where we challenge the common understanding of what it means and what it takes to be fit and healthy! If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.Apple Podcasts | SpotifyBe sure to share your favorite episodes on social media and tag us!Join Iris Deadlifts on Instagram, Meri on Instagram, and Amy Rudolph on Instagram.

In this solo episode of The Key Nutrition Podcast, I explore the intricate relationship between cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, and its impact on weight management. I discuss how cortisol levels can influence both weight gain and weight loss, uncovering the physiological mechanisms behind stress-induced changes in appetite, metabolism, and fat storage. From understanding the role of cortisol in promoting abdominal fat deposition to discussing strategies for managing stress to support healthy weight management, this episode offers valuable insights into harnessing the power of stress management for achieving wellness goals.   Next Level Experience - Schedule A Discovery Call   Join The Key Collective – https://mykeycollective.com Work with a Key Nutrition Coach – Click Here Join The Next Level Experience Waitlist –  Click Here   Submit your questions to be featured on our Q&A episodes.   Order from Cured Nutrition and get 10% off your order by using discount code: Brad   Order from Legion Supplements and get 20% off your first order by using discount code: keynutrition   Connect with us on Instagram Host Brad Jensen – @thesoberbodybuilder Key Nutrition – @keynutrition

We all face stresses in our lives, from getting stuck in traffic to arguing with our partner to losing a loved one. What is all that stress doing to our bodies, and what can we do to manage it? Dr. Zindel Segal, distinguished professor of psychology and mood disorders at the University of Toronto Scarborough, shares what you need to know. For transcripts of The Dose, please visit: lnk.to/dose-transcripts. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday. For more episodes of this podcast, click this link. 

Dr. David Rabin, guides us through the realms of distress, bad stress, and eustress, the good stress that can benefit us – with exercise as a prime example. The conversation unravels the collective stress epidemic and delves into the physiological consequences of chronic inflammation and stress.Dr. Rabin shares his insights on mechanisms and interventions that can enhance parasympathetic function. From breathing exercises to meditation, Dr. Estima and Dr. Rabin explore a vast array of tools for healing. Heart rate variability takes center stage, becoming a crucial predictor for longevity. The duo explores its origins, manipulability, and the intriguing variations between individuals – addressing questions about age, genetics, and nutrition and their impact on HRV.Dr. Estima and Dr. Rabin also venture into the fascinating realm of the female stress response and feeling safe, uncovering the unique and distinct ways women navigate stress compared to their male counterparts. The exploration of this topic promises an engaging and enlightening discussion that sets this episode apart.Episode Overview:00:00 Intro and Teaser01:08 Introduction to Stress and Its Impact on the Body04:02 Understanding the Difference Between Eustress and Distress08:24 Individual Responses to Stress Based on Personal History10:37 The Meaning of Wearing Masks: Personal Choice or Political Statement?20:26 Training the Mind-Body Connection for Resilience23:28 Collective Distress and Hyper-vigilance in Society26:23 The Connection Between Stress and Learning Difficulties29:25 The Primitive Stress Response: Survival Threats and Fear33:13 Biomarkers for Stress and Sympathetic Dominance36:09 Understanding Heart Rate Variability (HRV) and Its Significance39:25 Factors Affecting HRV: Individual Differences and Upward Trends48:44 The Importance of Feeling Safe for Sleep and Health57:54 The Benefits of Soothing Touch and Apollo Wearable62:34 Introducing Apollo Neuro: Frequencies for Body Wellness66:16 The Benefits of Apollo Neuro for Sleep and RecoveryBio:Dr. David Rabin, MD, PhD, is a neuroscientist, board-certified psychiatrist, health tech entrepreneur & inventor who has been studying the impact of chronic stress in humans for more than a decade. He is the co-founder & Chief Medical Officer at Apollo Neuroscience, which has developed the first scientifically validated wearable technology that actively improves energy, focus & relaxation, using a novel touch therapy that signals safety to the brain. Find out more at drdave.ioResources mentioned:https://Apolloneuro.comhttps://Wearablehugs.comSocial @drdavidrabinWe are grateful to our sponsors:EquipEquip Foods Prime Protein is a complete beef protein with the nutritional equivalent of a 4-ounce grass-fed beef. But it tastes like dessert, not beef. So head over to https://equipfoods.com/better and use code better at checkout. It is going to give you a whopping 20% off of your entire order.TimelineA consequence of aging is declining mitochondria. Mitopure helps to improve energy so that you can continue to engage in the activities you love. Go to https://www.timelinenutrition.com/better and the code will be “BETTER” for 10% off your order.Bon ChargeIf you want glowing, younger, firmer-looking skin this year with minimal effort or time without really changing your usual day or night routine, head over to https://boncharge.com/better and use the discount code better at checkout and that gives you 15% off your entire cart.

Join us this week as we delve deep into the intricate web of metabolic health. Discover the profound impact your gut has on mental well-being, unravel the mysteries of sex hormones with aging, and explore the critical role of sleep in optimizing metabolic function. Learn about fascinating concepts like metaflammation and inflammaging, gaining insights into common metabolic roadblocks that might be silently affecting your future health. Our host shares a personal journey of battling inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and the chemistry of the body while running and struggling to lose weight. Explore the comprehensive nature of metabolism, extending beyond mere calorie counting. Understand why the conventional calories in vs. calories out model falls short in revealing the full story. Discover how stress hormones intertwine with sex hormones, influencing your body's intricate balance. Uncover the secrets behind cortisol patterns and their impact on gonadotropin-releasing hormone, shedding light on how chronic stress can disrupt sex hormone production. Learn how elevated cortisol levels may lead to weight gain, hinder repair processes, and affect insulin receptors, contributing to metabolic dysregulation. Dive into the world of stress-related nutrient depletion, exploring key vitamins and minerals affected, and discover practical lifestyle interventions to address stress. From morning light exposure to adaptogens like L Theanine and ashwagandha, our host provides actionable tips for stress management. Explore the physiological and psychological impact of stress on cravings and hedonic urges. Learn how allostatic load influences your body's response to stressors, affecting everything from sleep quality to muscle-building capacity. Discover the importance of rest cycles and the balance between intense workouts and recovery. Discover personalized approaches to stress management, from adaptogens to lifestyle modifications. Our host emphasizes the significance of understanding the root cause of stress and suggests tools like box breathing, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, red light therapy, and taking time out. Don't miss this eye-opening episode that unveils the intricate connections between stress, cortisol, weight, and immunity. Gain valuable insights into optimizing your metabolic health and embark on a journey to reclaiming balance in your body. Ready to take the first step towards a healthier you? Listen now and explore the profound link between stress, metabolism, and overall well-being.   Personalised Health Optimisation Consulting with Lisa Tamati Lisa offers solution focused coaching sessions to help you find the right answers to your challenges.   Topics Lisa can help with:  Lisa is a Genetics Practitioner, Health Optimisation Coach, High Performance and Mindset Coach. She is a qualified Ph360 Epigenetics coach and a clinician with The DNA Company and has done years of research into brain rehabilitation, neurodegenerative diseases and biohacking. She has extensive knowledge on such therapies as hyperbaric oxygen,  intravenous vitamin C, sports performance, functional genomics, Thyroid, Hormones, Cancer and much more. She can assist with all functional medicine testing. Testing Options Comprehensive Thyroid testing DUTCH Hormone testing Adrenal Testing Organic Acid Testing Microbiome Testing Cell Blueprint Testing Epigenetics Testing DNA testing Basic Blood Test analysis Heavy Metals  Nutristat Omega 3 to 6 status and more  Lisa and her functional medicine colleagues in the practice can help you navigate the confusing world of health and medicine . She can also advise on the latest research and where to get help if mainstream medicine hasn't got the answers you are searching for whatever the  challenge you are facing from cancer to gut issues, from depression and anxiety, weight loss issues, from head injuries to burn out to hormone optimisation to the latest in longevity science. Book your consultation with Lisa    Join our Patron program and support the show Pushing the Limits' has been free to air for over 8 years. Providing leading edge information to anyone who needs it. But we need help on our mission.  Please join our patron community and get exclusive member benefits (more to roll out later this year) and support this educational platform for the price of a coffee or two You can join by going to  Lisa's Patron Community Or if you just want to support Lisa with a "coffee" go to  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/LisaT to donate $3   Lisa's Anti-Aging and Longevity Supplements  Lisa has spent years curating a very specialized range of exclusive longevity, health optimizing supplements from leading scientists, researchers and companies all around the world.  This is an unprecedented collection. The stuff Lisa wanted for her family but couldn't get in NZ that's what it's in her range. Lisa is constantly researching and interviewing the top scientists and researchers in the world to get you the best cutting edge supplements to optimize your life.   Subscribe to our popular Youtube channel  with over 600 videos, millions of views, a number of full length documentaries, and much more. You don't want to miss out on all the great content on our Lisa's youtube channel. Youtube   Order Lisa's Books Lisa has published 5 books: Running Hot, Running to Extremes, Relentless, What your oncologist isn't telling you and her latest "Thriving on the Edge"  Check them all out at  https://shop.lisatamati.com/collections/books   Perfect Amino Supplement by Dr David Minkoff Introducing PerfectAmino PerfectAmino is an amino acid supplement that is 99% utilized by the body to make protein. PerfectAmino is 3-6x the protein of other sources with almost no calories. 100% vegan and non-GMO. The coated PerfectAmino tablets are a slightly different shape and have a natural, non-GMO, certified organic vegan coating on them so they will glide down your throat easily. Fully absorbed within 20-30 minutes! No other form of protein comes close to PerfectAminos Listen to the episode with Dr Minkoff here:    Use code "tamati" at checkout to get a 10% discount on any of their devices.   Red Light Therapy: Lisa is a huge fan of Red Light Therapy and runs a Hyperbaric and Red Light Therapy clinic. If you are wanting to get the best products try Flexbeam: A wearable Red Light Device https://recharge.health/product/flexbeam-aff/?ref=A9svb6YLz79r38   Or Try Vielights' advanced Photobiomodulation Devices Vielight brain photobiomodulation devices combine electrical engineering and neuroscience. To find out more about photobiomodulation, current studies underway and already completed and for the devices mentioned in this video go to www.vielight.com and use code “tamati” to get 10% off     Enjoyed This Podcast? If you did, subscribe and share it with your friends! If you enjoyed tuning in, then leave us a review and share this with your family and friends. Have any questions? You can contact my team through email (support@lisatamati.com) or find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. For more episode updates, visit my website. You may also tune in on Apple Podcasts.    To pushing the limits, Lisa and team

How do you overcome emotional attachments? In this empowering episode, our host is thrilled to welcome Denise Belisle, a renowned serenity coach, to guide and inspire women on their journey toward self-empowerment.  Denise shares her expertise in navigating life's hurdles and fostering serenity, providing valuable insights for women seeking personal growth. Join the conversation as Denise delves into the importance of honest self-reflection and how it plays a crucial role in the transformative journey towards a more empowered and serene life.  Get ready to embark on a path of self-discovery and empowerment with Denise Belisle on this insightful episode. #AngelaBrown #HoardingWorld #ClutterCorner #AskAngelaBrown  RESOURCES ------------------ REPROGRAM YOUR MIND SLEEP TAPES The New Normal Sleep Tape - https://youtu.be/ebLJJA6rUHw The New Tape | Affirmations Of A Clean and Orderly Home | "I AM" - https://youtu.be/n13ZBvaCMjw * When available, we use affiliate links, and as Amazon Associates, we earn on qualifying purchases. SOCIAL MEDIA --------------- CONNECT WITH DENISE BELISLE Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Coach.Denise.Belisle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missdenisio/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeniseBelisle1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@denisebelisle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-belisle/  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@missdenisio Website: https://denisebelisle.com CONNECT WITH HOARDING WORLD  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HoardingWorld Facebook: https://Facebook.com/HoardingWorld Twitter: https://twitter.com/HoardingWorld Instagram: https://Instagram.com/hoarding.world Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/HoardingWorld TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@HoardingWorld Hashtags: #ClutterCorner #HoardingWorld CONNECT WITH ANGELA BROWN  YT: https://www.youtube.com/@AskAngelaBrown Facebook: https://Facebook.com/AskAngelaBrown Twitter: https://Twitter.com/AskAngelaBrown Instagram: https://Instagram.com/AskAngelaBrown Pinterest: https://Pinterest.com/AskAngelaBrown Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/AskAngelaBrown TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@AskAngelaBrown Store: https://amazon.com/shop/AngelaBrown NEED MORE DECLUTTERING HELP? ------------- HOARDING WORLD SUPPORT GROUP Support: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hoardingworld DISCLAIMER: This work is not intended to substitute for professional medical or counseling advice. If you suffer from a physical or mental illness, please always seek professional help.   SPONSORSHIPS & BRANDS ------------------- Today's #ClutterCornerLive sponsor is #SavvyCleaner training for house cleaners and maids. - https://savvycleaner.com/join And your host today is #AngelaBrown - https://g.page/r/CbMI6YFuLU2GEBI/review *** ADVERTISE WITH US ***  We do work with sponsors and brands. If you are interested in working with us and you have a product or service that makes sense for the decluttering, or hoarding space here's how to work with us -https://savvycleaner.com/brand-deals *** SAVVY CLEANER BRANDS ***  SAVVY CLEANER - House Cleaner Training and Certification – https://savvycleaner.com/join VRBO AIRBNB CLEANING – Cleaning tips and strategies for your short-term rental  https://TurnoverCleaningTips.com  FUNNY CLEANING SHIRTS – Incentive and thank-you gifts for house cleaners and maids. https://FunnyCleaningShirts.com  HOARDING WORLD - Helping you change your relationship with stuff https://HoardingWorld.com REALTY SUCCESS HUB - Helping you sell your home fast https://realtysuccesshub.com CREDITS -------------------------- Show Produced by: Savvy Cleaner: https://savvycleaner.com Show Host: Angela Brown Show Editors: Sally K. Naidu Show Producer: Sally K. Naidu Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to Serenity Coaching with Denise Bailil  00:00:59 The Connection Between Stress, Anxiety, and Clutter  00:02:04 Letting Go of Emotional Attachments to Possessions  00:03:28 Transitioning to a Minimalistic Lifestyle  00:05:09 Visualizing and Manifesting the Next Step  00:06:36 Putting Yourself in the Vision and Taking Action  00:07:31 Conclusion and Call to Live a Life of Peace and Serenity

This week I am talking to Nutritionist, Content Creator, and Podcaster... Medina Henry.Medina is Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner that is dedicated to empowering individuals worldwide in their journey to take charge of their health and reverse pre- and type two diabetesMedina and I delved deep into the complex relationship between stress, weight loss, and overall health. Our guest, Medina Henry, a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP), brought her wealth of knowledge to the table, offering practical insights into managing stress and achieving your weight loss goals.We also talk about how your body provides you with warning signs that it is in distress. Medina breaks down what your cravings say about you and even offer tips to give you the nutritions your body needs to be FIERCE! Yeah, I know I said fierce...it just popped in my head. Plus Medina tells you what IT'S ABOUT DAMN TIME to lower your stress which will help you on your weigh loss journey.All of this and so much more...It's About DAMN Time!Follow Medina on IG → hereFollow Medina on TikTok → hereVisit her website → hereWant to learn about The 5 Day Blood Sugar REBOOT? → hereFollow me on Facebook, Twitter, IG, & more @DaWholeDamnShowFollow this on Facebook, Twitter, IG, & more @ItsAboutDamnTimePodDamn University Merch now available click link → Here

In today's episode, we explore the link between stress and nutrition, learn how stress eating affects your well-being, and gain valuable insights to combat it. Prioritize your health with mindful eating strategies.   Sign up for the Real World Meal Planning Course, now open for enrollment for a limited time.    While you are there, get your FREE Autumn/Fall Seasonal Transitions Journal. Read more: Stress Eating: Uncovering the Connection Between Stress and Nutrition Schedule a free-30 minute introductory call today to learn how I can help you reach your health and wellness goals. Enroll in the Mini Course: 6 Tips for the Busy Person to Have Sustainable Energy: All-Day Energy Through Food AND Companion Workbook

The Connection Between Stress and WealthIn this engaging episode, Dr. Alok Trivedi explores the profound connection between stress and wealth. Drawing on his background as a doctor and his personal exploration of financial health, Dr. Trivedi delves into the psychological and physiological effects of financial stress and how it directly correlates with physical well-being. Through real-life examples and insightful observations, the episode unravels the true meaning of wealth, not just in monetary terms but as a condition of being whole and well.Key Takeaways:Introduction The importance of being wise, prudent, and responsible with money and wealth.Exploration of the correlation between health and wealth, and how stress affects both areas.Real-life example of a patient whose financial stress was manifesting as physical pain. How thinking about money affects your health and life, and insights from a cardiologist about financial stress leading to heart problems.The neurological connections that activate the sympathetic nervous system when under financial stress, causing various physical ailments.Lifestyle choices contribute to 95% of health conditions in the country, emphasizing the importance of protecting income to avoid stress-related diseases. Exploration of the amygdala, the fear center of the brain, and how it relates to financial stress, high blood pressure, and lack of sleep.The importance of sleep in decision-making, with statistics showing that a lack of sleep leads to 45% of poor decisions in day-to-day life and contributes to 40% of automobile accidents.Connection between stress, sleep, decision-making, and financial well-being, highlighting how our brain functions to keep us alive can influence our financial decisions.#drrewire #rewireyourbrain #wiredforwealth————————————————————————————————Rewire your mind to rewire your life! Don't miss out on thought-provoking content that Dr. Alok Trivedi has in store for you! https://drrewire.com/27weeks/Schedule Your Breakthrough Session with a Rewire Coach: http://rewirecall.com/Rewire. Live Energized. Fulfill Your Potential. Join our community.Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAlokTrivediFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.rewire/Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/drrewire/Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draloktrivedi/Find more tips on my site: https://drrewire.com/#rewireyourbrain #drrewire #brainconnection

This podcast explains how stress and trauma can influence eating disorders. In this video, I explain how trauma and stress create an imbalance in your hormones, compulsive behavior, and subconscious habits. The first step is to take control of your internal stress. The second step to overcoming compulsive behavior is to find the root of subconscious stress. The more we take control of our internal stress, the more we connect with our bodies. Connecting to our body allows us to feel and become aware of our behavior. This Podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

Hey there! Welcome to episode 160: We are celebrating 3 yrs of Conversations with Hicunni As your wellness coach, I am here to help you understand the impact of stress on your health and well-being and to provide you with practical tips and techniques for reducing stress in your daily life.Stress is a part of life, but it doesn't have to control you. In this podcast, we'll explore the latest research on the connection between stress and health, and I'll share a few stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, relaxation, self-care, and more.Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or just looking to improve your overall well-being, this podcast episode is for you. Join me as we strive to live our best, most stress-free lives.​So grab your smoothie or cup of tea and join the conversation. Let's go!Thank you for tuning into this episode. Remember to share this episode with two people.​Here are five strategies that you can incorporate into your life to help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being:Mindfulness: Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and accepting your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help reduce anxiety and depression, as well as improve physical symptoms such as headaches and sleep disturbances.Relaxation: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization can help calm your mind and body. These techniques can be especially helpful before bed to help you get a better night's sleep.Self-Care: Engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and getting enough sleep, can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.Time Management: Prioritizing your tasks and delegating responsibilities can help reduce stress and increase your efficiency. Consider using a planner or to-do list to help you stay organized and on track.Cognitive Restructuring: This technique involves challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with more positive and realistic ones. This can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety.Support the showWork With Coach Keenie

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

Stress is an inherent part of the human experience. No matter your circumstances, you're bound to face stress in the form of interpersonal struggles, work or financial demands, or even just general uncertainty and pressure. No one is immune from the realities of stress, but luckily there are some things we can do to make the impacts of stress less harmful. Today's guest, Dr. Elissa Epel, is an internationally renowned psychologist, bestselling author, and expert on building stress resilience for optimal aging and overall well-being. On today's show, she's sharing incredible insights from her new book, The Stress Prescription, on real-world strategies to improve the way you perceive stress. You're going to learn about the body's stress response system, and how it impacts a myriad of biological functions like aging and sleep. Dr. Epel is sharing a wealth of data on how stress impacts the body, and how to dampen the blow of stress with mindset shifts, exercises, biohacking strategies, and so much more. Learning how to modulate your response to stress is something we can call benefit from, and I hope you find this information empowering. Enjoy! In this episode you'll discover: What percentage of visits are caused by stress-related illnesses. Why stress is a critical component of our motivational system. How our stress response system works. What telomeres are and how to protect them. How the anti-aging enzyme telomerase works. What our default stress baseline is. How stress can impact your sleep quality, recovery, and mitochondrial health. What uncertainty tolerance is, and realistic ways to build it. How meditation can change your stress resilience on a long-term basis. My personal meditation practice, and how that relationship has changed over time. What it means to be the lion. The connection between adverse childhood experiences and stress responses. How stress can negatively impact your metabolism and body composition. Specific exercises and behaviors that can positively alter your stress response. The importance of bookending your day with joy. Items mentioned in this episode include: Organifi.com/Model -- Use the coupon code MODEL for 20% off! PiqueLife.com/model -- Use code MODEL at checkout for 10% off! The Stress Prescription by Dr. Elissa Epel The Telomere Effect by Drs. Elizabeth Blackburn & Elissa Epel The Big Joy Project Connect with Dr. Elissa Epel Website / Twitter / Instagram Join TMHS Facebook community - Model Nation  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  Apple Podcasts Stitcher Spotify Soundcloud Download Transcript  

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

** REMEMBER TO: CLICK 'SUBSCRIBE' TO BE NOTIFIED OFFUTURE POSTS ** REMEMBER TO FORWARD THIS TO INSPIRE OTHERS! ** CHECK OUT THESE OTHER SOURCES OF 'TP' CHIZUK AND INSPIRATIONFROM AVI: ** THE 'TP' WHATSAPP BROADCAST ** To be added to my whatsapp broadcast and receive tons of chizuk& inspiration (NOT JUST VIDEOS) simply whatsapp a request to: 718-902-6666 ** THE 'TP' PODCAST ** Another great feature is the PODCAST WHICH HAS A STEADY STREAM OFAMAZING CONTENT! https://jewishpodcasts.fm/avifishoff-twistedparenting After you choose the ‘app' that you want to use to hear the podcastremmeber to click ‘FOLLOW' to be automatically notified any time I add newcontent! ** THE 'TP' APP ** Download your very own ‘TP APP' and have instant access to a fullencyclopedic library of thousands of hours of audios and videos and more!!! FOR WINDOWS & ANDROID: https://bit.ly/tp-app-android FOR APPLE PRODCUTS: https://apple.co/34kcZr2 ** THE 'TP' WEBSITE ** www.TWiSTEDparenting.life ** Inspirational LIFE-ALTERING books by: @vi ** Enjoyable for the whole family!! GPS! NAVIGATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Life Challenges!) CPR! RESUSCITATION for YOUR SOUL! (Topic: Shabbos!) Published by ARTSCROLL Available at all fine Jewish bookstores and online at: https://www.judaicaplace.com/store/search.asp?keyword=AVI%20FISHOFF ** “TWiSTED Parenting” is a method developed by Avi Fishoff toguide parents of children in severe crisis. Avi personally trains and guides parents from all over the world. All parents must have their own Daas Torah involved to pasken anyshailos that may arise. Avi has many haskamos of leading Gedolim. All services are FREE of charge. Lessons should not be applied across the board or without properindividual guidance from a leading expert in the field of crisis. IF YOU ARE IN THE ABOVE CATEGORY YOU CAN CONTACT AVI AT:718-902-6666 אבי פישאהףמדריך מאות משפחות כבר מעל 20 שנה כלהשירותים של אבי הם תחת דעת תורה וחינמיים לגמרי כדי לקבלאת החיזוק היומי שלחו את הבקשה שלכם בוואטסאפ למספר: 718-902-6666 ·PLEASE HELP OUR FUNDRAISER AND HELP US SAVE LIVES! ·BE A PART OF IT! ·PLEASE DONATE ONLINE AT: TWISTEDPARENTING.ORG ·ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE ·THERE IS NO CHARGE TO OUR TP FAMILIES – ALL SERVICES ARE 100% FREE!

In this episode of The Healers Café, Manon Bolliger (facilitator and retired naturopath with 30+ years of practice) speaks with Lisa Sack, Āyurvedic Health Coach, a Somatic Movement Coach, and A Yoga Therapist For the transcript and full story go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/lisa-sack     Highlights from today's episode include: Lisa Sack I feel like what I see more than anything is just the degree to which anxiety levels in general are amped up. And as you well know, the minute anxiety and stress has ramped up that is going to compromise immunity. So, I always feel like if we could get more people to deal with that, to actually feel when they've got that coursing of hormones through their bodies that are designed to make them run away or fight. That if they could manage that, it would change an awful lot of what's happening in their systems Lisa Sack I think I see it more in those terms, that getting people to really have the tools that they need to calm and soothe themselves will go a long way towards boosting their immunity. Lisa Sack it's why in some ways, I think the ancient practices are so attractive, because they've been around for 5000 years, and there's a huge body and I have respect for science, I have respect for, you know, the efforts to do clinical trials to prove things but, you know, just because you can't measure something doesn't mean it isn't there and isn't true.   ABOUT LISA SACK: Lisa Sack, C-IAYT E-RYT 500, Certified Yoga Therapist and Viniyoga™ Therapist, Āyurvedic Health Counselor, Student-in-Training of Hanna Somatic Education®, Certified Clinical Somatics Exercise Instructor I was born and raised in NYC and currently live in Brooklyn with my partner of 30 years, our dog and 2 cats. We have 2 children in their mid-twenties, one of whom just graduated from college and is living at home. I had a very peripatetic life before coming to the healing arts–I studied Comparative Literature at Princeton, then studied in England, where I became a Licensiate of the Royal Academy of Music, I worked in theater and production management until my early 30s, then went back to graduate school at Columbia University for an MFA in creative writing. I married at 34 and was a geriatric mom–had my kids at 38 and 40, so my mid-40s were the time of juggling job, at that time, working for a medical marketing firm and parenting. Various factors brought me to my current profession as described below. Core purpose/passion: What am I NOT passionate about, understand that from the Ayurvedic perspective, I have a great deal of fire in me, and fire is ALL about passion. I am passionate about helping others learn to live with ease, grace, and authenticity. I believe that everyone can change, and that everyone has the knowledge within them to find health, well-being, and contentment. All that's required is to take one small step in the right direction, and then another, and then another. To paraphrase Carl Jung, we are not what's happened to us We are what we choose to become. –  Website | LinkedIn |   ABOUT MANON BOLLIGER As a recently De-Registered board-certified naturopathic physician & in practice since 1992, I've seen an average of 150 patients per week and have helped people ranging from rural farmers in Nova Scotia to stressed out CEOs in Toronto to tri-athletes here in Vancouver. My resolve to educate, empower and engage people to take charge of their own health is evident in my best-selling books:  'What Patients Don't Say if Doctors Don't Ask: The Mindful Patient-Doctor Relationship' and 'A Healer in Every Household: Simple Solutions for Stress'.  I also teach BowenFirst™ Therapy through Bowen College and hold transformational workshops to achieve these goals. So, when I share with you that LISTENING to Your body is a game changer in the healing process, I am speaking from expertise and direct experience". Mission: A Healer in Every Household! For more great information to go to her weekly blog:  http://bowencollege.com/blog.  For tips on health & healing go to: https://www.drmanonbolliger.com/tips   ABOUT THE HEALERS CAFÉ: Manon's show is the #1 show for medical practitioners and holistic healers to have heart to heart conversations about their day to day lives. Follow on Social – Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Twitter | Linktr.ee | Rumble   * De-Registered, revoked & retired naturopathic physician after 30 years of practice in healthcare. Now resourceful & resolved to share with you all the tools to take care of your health & vitality!   Remember to subscribe if you like our videos. Click the bell if you want to be one of the first people notified of a new release.

Pain is confusing, frustrating, and can really get in the way of doing the things you love. We want to help people understand their pain so that they can take control, do what they love, and move without restrictions. On this episode, Hannah Talks with Dr. Elliot Lance, a Physical Therapist at Made 2 Move.Elliot and Hannah talk about how stress and recovery impacts our overall health and the different types of stress in our everyday lives. They talk about how focusing on stress and recovery can help you face your pain and live your life again.Some people think stress is a bad thing, but in reality, it is simply a stimulus that signals the body to change, adapt, and become more resilient.Follow Elliot and Made 2 Move: @elliotlance_dpt on InstagramBook an appointment at Made2Movept.comWelcome to the Healthy Charleston Podcast, where we help you take ownership of your health and fitness. We are here to be your source of accurate health and fitness information while spreading awareness about the health and fitness resources available to you in the Charleston area. Be sure you are subscribed so you never miss an episode, we hope you enjoy the show.Follow Hannah and Made2Move:@hannahbreal_dpt @made2movept DONT spend another day in pain! Sign up for an appointment at made2movept.com and get 10% off your first visit when you mention the podcast.

Pain is confusing, frustrating, and can really get in the way of doing the things you love. We want to help people understand their pain so that they can take control, do what they love, and move without restrictions. On this episode, Hannah Talks with Dr. Elliot Lance, a Physical Therapist at Made 2 Move.Elliot and Hannah talk about how stress and recovery impacts our overall health and the different types of stress in our everyday lives. They talk about how focusing on stress and recovery can help you face your pain and live your life again.Some people think stress is a bad thing, but in reality, it is simply a stimulus that signals the body to change, adapt, and become more resilient.Follow Elliot and Made 2 Move: @elliotlance_dpt on InstagramBook an appointment at Made2Movept.comWelcome to the Healthy Charleston Podcast, where we help you take ownership of your health and fitness. We are here to be your source of accurate health and fitness information while spreading awareness about the health and fitness resources available to you in the Charleston area. Be sure you are subscribed so you never miss an episode, we hope you enjoy the show.Follow Hannah and Made2Move:@hannahbreal_dpt @made2movept DONT spend another day in pain! Sign up for an appointment at made2movept.com and get 10% off your first visit when you mention the podcast.

Stress can throw you off course and derail your intentions to eat healthy and maintain a consistent exercise regimen.Perhaps you're finding yourself snacking more and more lately, and overeating. You're missing back-to-back days of workouts and exercise. Maybe you're not feeling motivated to eat healthy and exercise.You're busy with work, school, taking care of kids, and simply keeping up. Your whole world seems chaotic and you feel as if you can't stick to doing what it takes to reach your health goals.What value will the listener receive?Understanding the affects of stress on your healthPractical ways to manage stress and stay focused on maintaining good healthStress does not have to control your life. Learn how to manage stress and take control of your life and set yourself up for a lifestyle of health and wellness.Resources:Download Oscar's FREE guide, “Healthy Grocery Shopping Guide: Fruits & Veggies Edition”_____________________Connect With MeTo submit a question or join my mailing list, use the information below to connect with me.Web - www.beatingdiabeteslifestyle.com Email - hello@beatingdiabeteslifestyle.comInstagram - @beatingdiabeteslifestyle HiHo - https://hiho.link/g/beatingdiabeteslife_____________________©2022 Oscar Camejo - The Beating Diabetes Lifestyle

On this week's episode, we have a very special guest joining us, Britt Nicholson. Britt is a registered holistic nutritionist, who helps women create lasting healthy habits while perfecting poop, increasing energy and beating burnout.   We dive deep into Britt's own struggle with stress and the impact it had on her well-being, how stress plays a role in your digestion and gut health, and ways to better manage your stress!   Connect with Britt here - https://www.instagram.com/holisticbrittnutrition/ Listen to Britt's podcast here - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-balance-with-britt-podcast/id1609675552 ----------  Apply for 1:1 coaching here: https://bit.ly/HCinterestform ----------  Free Resources Quick Meal & Snack Recipe Guide for the Busy Woman: https://bit.ly/HCrecipeguide Join my weekly email newsletter for tools, tips and updates: https://bit.ly/HC-Newsletter ----------  Stay Connected  Instagram: @jennaraealtman Free Facebook Community: Grow Your Confidence with Harvest Coaching  https://www.facebook.com/groups/growyourconfidencewithharvestcoaching

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha's incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha.   What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha's superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis boost various components of the immune system protect the brain and nervous system slow down or even kill abnormal cells enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it's standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let's take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha's benefits for health.   What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we're stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea).   How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body's response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.”   No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8].   The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body's internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body's response to stress.   Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13].   Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects.   Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body's early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19].   The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities.   Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29].   KSM-66 Ashwagandha's Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function.   But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.   Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Resources: [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study. KSM-66 Ashwagandha: A Superhero Herb for Body & Brain

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha's incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha.   What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha's superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis boost various components of the immune system protect the brain and nervous system slow down or even kill abnormal cells enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it's standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let's take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha's benefits for health.   What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we're stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea).   How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body's response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.”   No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8].   The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body's internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body's response to stress.   Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13].   Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects.   Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body's early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19].   The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities.   Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29].   KSM-66 Ashwagandha's Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function.   But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.   Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Resources: [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study. KSM-66 Ashwagandha: A Superhero Herb for Body & Brain

Andrew and Barbara Wren explore the physiological effects of stress in connection with Cellular hydration.In this insightful podcast, we look at ways that we can self-empower ourselves with techniques and an understanding of how to best handle the anxiety we all seem to be facing more and more these days.Looking at protecting our levels of hydration and appropriate electrolyte levels to enable us to deal with this pressure more efficiently. Reviewing the role of juicing, smoothies, and broths, when promoting great hydration with a more alkaline manner and its effects on Henrik Krammers 16 stages of cellular change.www.conellaholdings.com

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha's incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha.   What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha's superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis boost various components of the immune system protect the brain and nervous system slow down or even kill abnormal cells enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it's standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let's take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha's benefits for health.   What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we're stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea).   How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body's response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.”   No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8].   The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body's internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body's response to stress.   Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13].   Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects.   Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body's early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19].   The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities.   Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29].   KSM-66 Ashwagandha's Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function.   But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.   Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   RESOURCES: [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study. KSM-66 Ashwagandha: A Superhero Herb for Body & Brain  

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha's incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha.   What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha's superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis boost various components of the immune system protect the brain and nervous system slow down or even kill abnormal cells enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it's standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let's take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha's benefits for health.   What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we're stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea).   How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body's response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.”   No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual's resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8].   The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body's internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body's response to stress.   Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13].   Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects.   Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body's early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19].   The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities.   Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29].   KSM-66 Ashwagandha's Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function.   But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.   Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   RESOURCES: [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study. KSM-66 Ashwagandha: A Superhero Herb for Body & Brain

Did you know that your stress levels have a serious impact on your gut health?   This has been coming up a lot in my clinical practice, so in this solo episode, I am explaining the correlation between the two and then I am giving you some tips to prevent the negative effects of stress on your gut!   I am breaking down all of the different ways that stress can affect digestion, lead to a leaky gut, cause diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, and more.   To really understand how stress impacts the digestive system, I'm starting by describing what's supposed to happen in a normal human being who's not stressed in terms of the digestive tract. This is really important to understand for anyone - digestive issues or not.   If you think that your stress may be impacting the way your digestive system performs on a day-to-day basis, you aren't going to want to miss this informative and helpful episode.   I would love to connect on Facebook or Instagram!   Show notes available at www.drerinkinney.com/56

How often are you trying to be something other than who you are, hiding your true feelings, making excuses for how you feel and putting everyone else first before your own needs?If you're currently going through treatment for an illness or know someone who is - has the physician asked you thoroughly about your psycho-emotional life?If you're like the majority then your answer is probably no.With a sharp rise in the past few decades in autoimmune conditions such as MS and in cancer rates, it's obvious to see that our current mainstream approach to chronic illness is missing something when looking at the underlying reason to why we get sick.I'm going to feature Dr Gabor Maté who is a renowned physician with decades of experience in exploring the role that stress and emotions play in illness and disease.Understanding our emotions is a fundamental pillar to  the inner work towards personal mastery.So in this video you're going to learn:The missing link in modern western medicineThe disease prone personalityMysterious power of diseasePractical steps you can take to enlighten & empower you to promote healing of yourself and that of those around you.RESOURCES:Dr Gabor Mate - https://drgabormate.com/How To Academy (Dr. Gabor Maté on The Connection Between Stress and Disease): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajo3xkhTbfoWhen The Body Says No - https://www.amazon.co.uk/When-Body-Says-No-Hidden/dp/178504222XTeam Human: https://www.teamhuman.fm/bookCancer Talks: https://cancertalks.com/VIDEOS MENTIONED

Dr. Blackman Carr is an Assistant Professor of Community and Public Health Nutrition at the University of Connecticut and has been a registered dietitian since 2010. Her expertise is in behavioral weight control interventions with an emphasis on addressing obesity in Black women. She develops and evaluates interventions that leverage social relationships to improve weight loss and related diet and physical activity behavior change. As Co-Chair of the Research Committee for NOBIDAN she aims to bring her research training and expertise to the forefront to meet the needs and interests of the dietetic community.In this episode we discuss:1. Managing your nutrition during stress2. Mindful Eating3. Strategies to manage your nutrition during stress 4. Hunger cues----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1.  Click the link to learn more about the Nurse Wellness Mentorship2. Download your FREE Mindfulness E-Book at stressblueprint.com/353. Follow the Nurse Wellness Podcast on Facebook and Instagram4. Join the Nurse Wellness Hub on Facebook  5. Email Nurse Wellness Podcast at hello@stressblueprint.com6. Background music produced by DNMbeats

In this episode, I talk about the connection between stress and gray hair. Thank you so much for taking the time to listen to this podcast episode and stay tuned for tomorrow's! Our website: https://acupunctureismylife.com/ Ask us questions through our app to get answers in our podcast! Link: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.acupunctureislife.android Follow our social media for more information on acupuncture: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acupunctureismylife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/acupunctureismylifeTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@acupunctureismylife?lang=en

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Deeper Dive Resources [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study.

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.   Deeper Dive Resources [1] An Overview on Ashwagandha: A Rasayana (Rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. [2] Scientific basis for the use of Indian ayurvedic medicinal plants in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders: ashwagandha. [3] Scientific Basis for the Therapeutic Use of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha): A Review. [4] Anti‐stress activity of sitoindosides VII and VIII, new acylsterylglucosides from Withania somnifera. [5] A prospective, randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of safety and efficacy of a high-concentration full-spectrum extract of ashwagandha root in reducing stress and anxiety in adults. [6] KSM-66 Ashwagandha Documentary [7] Society for Endocrinology: You and Your Hormones – Cortisol. [8] An investigation into the stress-relieving and pharmacological actions of an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. [9] Body Weight Management in Adults Under Chronic Stress Through Treatment With Ashwagandha Root Extract: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial. [10] Withaferin A Protects Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity Via Attenuation of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance. [11] Treatment of osteoarthritis with a herbomineral formulation: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study. [12] Efficacy & safety evaluation of Ayurvedic treatment (Ashwagandha powder & Sidh Makardhwaj) in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a pilot prospective study. [13] The relationship between chondroprotective and antiinflammatory effects of Withania somnifera root and glucosamine sulphate on human osteoarthritic cartilage in vitro. [14] Efficacy of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera [L.] Dunal) in improving cardiorespiratory endurance in healthy athletic adults. [15] Examining the effect of Withania somnifera supplementation on muscle strength and recovery: a randomized controlled trial. [16] Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Withania somnifera on Strength Training Adaptations and Recovery: The STAR Trial. [17] In vivo effects of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract on the activation of lymphocytes. [18] In vivo enhancement of natural killer cell activity through tea fortified with Ayurvedic herbs. [19] In vivo, Extract from Withania somnifera Root Ameliorates Arthritis via Regulation of Key Immune Mediators of Inflammation in Experimental Model of Arthritis. [20] Effects of Ashwagandha (roots of Withania somnifera) on neurodegenerative diseases. [21] Neuritic regeneration and synaptic reconstruction induced by withanolide A. [22] Combinations of Ashwagandha leaf extracts protect brain-derived cells against oxidative stress and induce differentiation. [23] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) Root Extract in Improving Memory and Cognitive Functions. [24] Medicinal Plants from Near East for Cancer Therapy. [25] Withaferin A: From ayurvedic folk medicine to preclinical anti-cancer drug. [26] Identification of Withaferin A as a Potential Candidate for Anti-Cancer Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. [27] Withaferin A inhibits expression of ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related kinase and enhances sensitivity of human breast cancer cells to cisplatin. [28] Subcritical water extraction of withanosides and withanolides from ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L) and their biological activities. [29] Cytotoxic Withanolides from the Roots of Indian Ginseng (Withania somnifera). [30] Clinical Evaluation of the Spermatogenic Activity of the Root Extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) in Oligospermic Males: A Pilot Study. [31] Withania somnifera (Indian ginseng) in male infertility: An evidence-based systematic review and meta-analysis. [32] Efficacy and Safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Root Extract in Improving Sexual Function in Women: A Pilot Study. [33] Safety assessment of Withania somnifera extract standardized for Withaferin A: Acute and sub-acute toxicity study.

Continuing the interview with Chris Welsh from last week, Andre and Chris talk specifically about the connect between stress and weight gain. If you live a high stress life, you NEED to listen to this. The connection in these two things could be what has been holding you back in your health goals. There is more to weight loss then just going to the gym or counting macros, and you're relationship to stress, may be that missing key.  Follow Andrea on instagram @deliciouslyfitnhealthy and online at www.deliciouslyfitnhealthy.com Produced by Valkyrie Podcast Solutions.

The current global climate is causing more overwhelm and high emotions than usual, especially for those of us that are HSP's or Empaths. I have heard the global pandemic referred to several times as the Corona Coaster, it is filled with collective amounts of trauma, hardship, but that doesn't mean that all things that have come from this have to be negative. As an HSP or Empath, all of this may feel extra traumatic as we feel things on such a deep level. Many are wondering when life will go back to normal, but the reality of it is, it may never go back to the “normal” we knew before.In this episode, I'm going to offer you some real, tangible strategies to help deal and cope with the changing global climate and the highs and lows of the corona coaster.[1:47] The Corona Coaster[4:11] Maslow's hierarchy of needs and how they're being affected by the pandemic[5:57] Disruption of Chakras and how that can cause you to feel[8:10] How the feeling of not being safe, affects all other things[11:52] Changing your perspective[13:30] Your Physical Body is an essential source of wisdom, here's how to listen to it.[15:30] Other Emotions wearing the mask of Anger[19:19] Learning to use creativity as an outlet Links Mentioned:Dr. Gabor Mate's video, The Connection Between Stress and Disease: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ajo3xkhTbfoMaslow's Hierarchy of Needs: https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.htmlChakra system: https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-91/The-7-Chakras-for-Beginners.htmlIf you are interested in some of the essential oils I mentioned in this podcast: Lavender, Balance (grounding blend), Align, and Serenity. Here is a link to the site: https://www.doterra.com/US/en/site/kavitamelwaniwww.theenlightendheart.proIf You want to connect for a complimentary 30-minute clarity session to explore how you can individually thrive as an HSP/Empath, please apply here: https://theenlightenedheart.as.me/claritysession

During this pandemic, I’ve really been enjoying touching base with some of my previous guests who have relevant wisdom to share. In today’s episode I’m chatting with repeat guest Dr. Serena Goldstein, a Naturopathic Doctor who specializes in hormone health and the mind-body approach to hormone balance and weight loss. Through individualized treatment plans, Dr. Serena offers her patients the necessary tools to help them feel empowered and understanding of their own self.   I appreciate Dr. Serena’s holistic approach to her practice and have learned so much from her. Here are some of my favorite takeaways from my chat with her:     Our hormones are affected by stress just as our response to stress is affected by our hormones.     When it comes to our hormonal health, it’s important to achieve balance, and to remember that that balance changes at different times within our life cycle.     Spirituality plays an integral role in our overall health and well-being.     It’s important to love and understand your individual evolution and where you come from because it has brought you to this point in life.     Our healing journey is never linear, so learn to trust yourself and the universe.   If you want to learn more about Dr. Serena and the work she does, you can connect with her via her website (https://www.drserenagoldstein.com), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drserenag/), and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/DrSerenaND/). You can also download this (https://www.drserenagoldstein.com/balancedhormonesbalancedlife) PDF in which Dr. Serena shares three tips for a mind-body approach to hormone balance and weight loss.   If you’d like to listen to my first podcast with Dr. Serena, where we spoke about learning to trust and honor your body, you can check it out here (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-14-doctor-serena-goldstein-on-learning-to-trust/id1460384072?i=1000448099190).

We sit down today to talk with physical therapist Seth Oberst. Seth is based out of Atlanta and has developed a niche in stress and pain management. He teaches courses across the country regarding all things stress management. We discuss so many interesting topics. We review the interconnection between stress and pain. We talk about how to best use the subjective exam, the role of manual therapy and touch in pain, breathing, and so much more. He is a crazy smart guy and he does an amazing job at putting complex concepts into practical terms. Enjoy!

In this episode, we dig into why stress affects our relationship with food. Why stress and strong emotions can cause us to overeat or undereat. And how to create a more peaceful relationship with food. Learn more about Body Love Bootcamp: vibrantlywell.com/BLBC Show notes: vibrantlywell.com/podcast  

Sarah Kugelman's catalyst for creating the skincare line skyn ICELAND was her personal story of stress and illness, a story far too many of us—especially women—have experienced as we try to juggle our complex lives. As she healed herself, the CEO and founder focused on the toll modern life takes on skin and decided to do something about it. Tune in to hear all about Sarah's amazing journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship and her path to health, wellness and beautiful skin.#wherebrainsmeetbeauty@wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcastwherebrainsmeetbeauty.com

Sarah Kugelman’s catalyst for creating the skincare line skyn ICELAND was her personal story of stress and illness, a story far too many of us—especially women—have experienced as we try to juggle our complex lives. As she healed herself, the CEO and founder focused on the toll modern life takes on skin and decided to do something about it. Tune in to hear all about Sarah’s amazing journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship and her path to health, wellness and beautiful skin. #wherebrainsmeetbeauty@wherebrainsmeetbeautypodcastwherebrainsmeetbeauty.com

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.

Ashwagandha is an important herb used in the ancient Indian system of medicine known as Ayurveda to promote general health and well-being. In Ayurvedic practice, ashwagandha is classified as a Rasayana, which means an herb or preparation that rejuvenates, extends life, and promotes a youthful state of physical and mental health. Listen in to discover more about ashwagandha’s incredible health benefits in general and a special potent “superhero” form known as KSM-66 ashwagandha. What Does Ashwagandha Do? Ashwagandha’s superpower is that it is an adaptogen. Adaptogens are non-toxic therapies that normalize our bodily functions – both physical and mental – that are thrown out of balance when we are exposed to chronic, uncontrolled stress. They do so by correcting imbalances in the neuroendocrine and immune systems [2]. In short, adaptogens enhance our ability to cope with stress. There are more than 35 natural compounds in ashwagandha including alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins, and with anolides. These compounds have been shown to have anti-stress activity in multiple laboratory models of chronic stress and in some human studies as well [1-5]. Additionally, ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds present in this plant – primarily in the roots – have been shown to help: counter pain and joint swelling associated with arthritis • boost various components of the immune system • protect the brain and nervous system • slow down or even kill abnormal cells • enhance both male and female sexual desire and function What Is KSM-66 Ashwagandha? KSM-66 Ashwagandha is a high-concentration ashwagandha root extract manufactured and sold by Ixoreal Biomed, located in Hyderabad, India [6]. Ashwagandha KSM-66 is made solely from ashwagandha roots, which contain its main bioactive ingredients, without using any other parts that are considered to be less effective. A unique feature of KSM-66 ashwagandha is that it’s standardized to a withanolide content of at least 5 percent. Withanolides are a group of around 300 naturally occurring steroid compounds, some of which are naturally present in ashwagandha. One example is Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory compound that has also been shown to stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, and perhaps even shrinking them. Last but not least, KSM-66 ashwagandha is produced by a unique extraction process, based on the principles of “green chemistry,” without using alcohol or any synthetic solvents. Let’s take a closer look now at some of KSM-66 ashwagandha’s benefits for health. What Too Much Cortisol Does to the Body Any stressful event in our lives causes our adrenal glands to produce cortisol, a steroid hormone that acts to control blood sugar levels, regulate metabolism, lower inflammation levels, influence memory formation, and manage salt and water balance [7]. The more stressed we are and the longer we’re stressed, the more our adrenals respond by releasing cortisol into our bloodstream. Too much cortisol in the blood over a prolonged period of time can lead to: rapid weight gain high blood pressure osteoporosis muscle weakness mood swings anxiety, depression, or irritability increased thirst and frequency of urination [7] Ongoing high cortisol levels can also eventually cause a lack of sex drive in men. In women, periods typically become irregular, less frequent, or may even stop altogether (amenorrhea). How Can Ashwagandha Help Us Cope With Stress? To answer this question, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of KSM-66 ashwagandha (which, as mentioned above, is a high-concentration, full-spectrum ashwagandha root extract) in 64 adults [5]. After 60 days of treatment, the study authors observed a “substantial reduction” in four separate measures of stress in the study participants. KSM-66 ashwagandha also reduced levels of the hormone cortisol in the blood. By lowering cortisol, ashwagandha tones down the body’s response to stressful situations, in effect “calming us down.” No serious adverse events were reported [5] and the study researchers concluded that: “High-concentration full-spectrum Ashwagandha root extract safely and effectively improves an individual’s resistance towards stress and thereby improves self-assessed quality of life.” Similarly, in another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 60 stressed but otherwise healthy adults were randomly assigned to take either a placebo or an ashwagandha root extract once daily for 2 months [8]. At the end of the study, participants given ashwagandha showed a significant reduction in their stress, anxiety, and depression scores. Once again, ashwagandha consumption was associated with a greater reduction in the levels of cortisol in the blood, when compared with placebo [8]. The Connection Between Stress and Obesity Chronic stress has been associated with many illnesses, including obesity. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, ashwagandha consumption was seen to lead to significant reductions in emotional and uncontrolled food cravings while also lowering cortisol, body weight, and body mass index (BMI) in 52 subjects subjected to chronic stress [9]. Indeed, laboratory experiments in mice have shown that one of the main active ingredients in ashwagandha known as Withaferin A can protect against obesity caused by a high-fat diet by reducing inflammation in the liver, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance [10]. These and other findings make it clear that ashwagandha is a powerful tool in our battle against ongoing stress, likely by regulating various specific aspects of our hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is an interactive neuroendocrine system that plays a key role in maintaining our body’s internal equilibrium, along with orchestrating our body’s response to stress. Ashwagandha Benefits for Joint Pain Ashwagandha is a key ingredient in many Ayurvedic formulations prescribed for joint-related conditions such as osteoarthritis. Indeed, many research studies show that ashwagandha and its bioactive ingredients help to manage and reduce inflammation levels. For instance, in a double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial published in 1991, 42 patients with osteoarthritis were randomized to receive a formula containing ashwagandha, frankincense, turmeric, and zinc – or placebo – for three months [11]. Clinical efficacy was evaluated every 15 days in terms of severity of pain, morning stiffness, Ritchie articular index (a weighted score of tenderness and swelling in 53 joint groups, each scored on a 0-3 scale), joint score, disability score, and grip strength. Throughout the study, the herbal formula was seen to significantly reduce the severity of joint pain and disability. No significant adverse effects were reported. In another study, 86 patients with joint pain were given 5 grams of ashwagandha powder twice a day for three weeks with lukewarm water or milk [12]. Then these patients took another Ayurvedic preparation known as Sidh Makardhwaj – a formulation used in rheumatoid arthritis and neurological disorders – daily for the next four weeks. Treatment with ashwagandha and Sidh Makardhwaj for seven weeks led to significantly improved scores of joint swelling, tenderness, and pain, indicating that this combination treatment is likely to be beneficial in rheumatoid arthritis. Indeed, in laboratory experiments, an ashwagandha root extract was seen to reduce inflammation in knee cartilage taken from chronic osteoarthritis patients [13]. Ashwagandha for Boosting Endurance, Muscle Strength, and Recovery Ashwagandha has long had the reputation of being able to enhance cardiovascular endurance and physical performance. As stated earlier, consuming this herb is said to impart the strength and stamina of a horse [1]. In a prospective, double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study, KSM-66 ashwagandha was shown to significantly boost cardiorespiratory endurance and improve self-reported quality of life (QOL) in 50 healthy male and female athletic adults [14]. In another randomized, prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study, 57 young men with little previous experience in resistance training were randomized into treatment and placebo groups [15]. Participants in the treatment group consumed 300 mg of ashwagandha root extract twice daily, while those in the control group took starch placebos instead. Multiple measurements – including muscle strength, muscle size, body composition, testosterone levels, and muscle recovery – were made before the start of the study. Both groups then went through resistance training for 8 weeks and the measurements were repeated when they were done. Promisingly, the group of men taking ashwagandha root extract had significantly greater increases in muscle strength and arm muscle size relative to the placebo group. They also showed significantly less exercise-induced muscle damage, higher testosterone levels, and a greater reduction in body fat percentage. In other words, ashwagandha supplementation is associated with significant increases in muscle mass, strength, and recovery after exercise. In another randomized, double-blind strength and conditioning study known as the STAR trial, 500 mg of an extract of ashwagandha roots and leaves was consumed by recreationally active young men for 12 weeks [16]. Body composition, muscular strength, power, and endurance, cycling time trial, and blood chemistry were measured before and after the study. Consuming the ashwagandha extract was seen to improve upper and lower body strength and improve distribution of body mass in these men, once again without causing any serious adverse effects. Ashwagandha as an Immune System Enhancer Ashwagandha enhances immune function. In a small study, ashwagandha root extract was seen to activate multiple types of immune cells in the participants [17]. Similarly, a tea fortified with five herbs including ashwagandha was seen to activate so-called “natural killer” (NK) cells in not just one, but two independent double-blind intervention studies conducted in India on healthy volunteers [18]. NK cell activity is an important aspect of our body’s early immune response to infections. Interestingly, in other situations, ashwagandha extracts have also been shown to suppress specific components of the immune system. For example, one of the characteristic features of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the continuous production of pro-inflammatory compounds known as cytokines in joint cavities, triggering inflammation and cartilage destruction. In laboratory experiments in rats, a root extract of ashwagandha was seen to suppress production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce oxidative stress [19]. The Brain-Boosting Benefits of Ashwagandha Numerous laboratory studies show that ashwagandha – traditionally used in Ayurveda to boost intellect and memory – can slow, stop, and reverse damage to brain cells and may even help to reconstruct brain cell networks. For instance, ashwagandha extracts have been shown to promote nerve cell growth in culture [20]. Withanolide A, withanoside IV, and withanoside VI were identified as the bioactive compounds responsible. Ashwagandha extracts as well as specific bioactive compounds (e.g., withanolide A) have also been shown to protect nerve cells in culture against damage caused by various toxic agents [21]. Amazingly, the administration of withanoside IV for 21 days led to recovery in a rat model of spinal cord damage [20]. It is well known that toxic free radicals damage brain cells and contribute to both normal aging and aging-related health conditions. In a 2015 study, both ashwagandha extracts and a bioactive compound known as withanone were seen to protect nerve cells from oxidative damage [22]. Not surprisingly, ashwagandha has long been used in Ayurveda to enhance memory and improve mental faculties. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study, 50 adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) – who are considered to be at a greater risk of developing dementia later in life – were treated with either 300 mg of KSM-66 ashwagandha twice daily or placebo for 8 weeks [23]. After 8 weeks, the ashwagandha KSM-66 group showed significant improvements in both their immediate or short-term as well as general memory, relative to the placebo group. The ashwagandha group also showed significant improvements in executive function, sustained attention, and information-processing abilities. Can Ashwagandha Even Help Protect Against Abnormal Cell Growth? Ashwagandha and other species of Withania are well known in folk medicine traditions for their anti-cancer properties and their extracts have been shown to be toxic for multiple types of cancer cells in laboratory experiments [24]. They appear to act by slowing down or even stopping cancer cell growth by inducing programmed cell death or “apoptosis.” As stated earlier, Withaferin A, an anti-inflammatory withanolide, has been shown to act as an anti-angiogenic. In other words, it can help stop tumors from growing their own blood vessels, slowing down their growth, or perhaps even shrinking them. As reported in the journal Biochemical Pharmacology in August 2019, growing evidence suggests that Withaferin A is very effective against cancer [25]. For instance, low response rate and recurrence are common issues in lung cancer. Withaferin A has been shown to exhibit potent toxicity against several lung cancer cell lines in laboratory experiments. Not only that, the combination of Withaferin A and chemotherapeutic drugs were shown to have additive effects on lung cancer cell survival [26]. Withaferin A has also been shown to be toxic for breast cancer and cervical cancer (HeLa) cells in laboratory experiments [27,28]. Similarly, other bioactive compounds in ashwagandha have also been shown to be toxic for cancer cells in laboratory experiments [29]. KSM-66 Ashwagandha’s Impact on Libido and Infertility Ashwagandha root extract has been shown to enhance sexual desire and function in both men and women. For instance, ashwagandha has been described in Ayurvedic medicine as an aphrodisiac that can be used to treat male sexual dysfunction and infertility. In a pilot study conducted to evaluate the effects of ashwagandha in patients with a low sperm count (known as oligospermia), a total of 46 male patients were randomized either to treatment with KSM-66 Ashwagandha or placebo for 90 days [30]. At the end of the study, participants given KSM-66 ashwagandha showed a 167% increase in sperm count, a 53% increase in semen volume, and a 57% increase in sperm motility relative to baseline. In comparison, only minimal changes were seen in the placebo group. Further, a greater improvement in hormone levels was seen with KSM-66 ashwagandha. In other words, ashwagandha is likely to be very effective in treating oligospermia, which is a leading cause of male infertility. Similarly, a meta-analysis showed that ashwagandha significantly improved sperm concentration and sperm motility even in men with normal sperm parameters, without any adverse effects [31]. Ashwagandha has also been shown to enhance sexual function in women. At the Trupti Hospital and Santati Fertility Center located near Mumbai in India, 50 women were randomized to either ashwagandha treatment or placebo (300 mg twice daily) for 8 weeks [32]. In this study, ashwagandha supplementation was shown to lead to significantly higher scores in multiple markers of sexual desire and function. But Is Ashwagandha Safe? Ashwagandha root powder has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and it is believed to be completely safe and free of any toxicity. Extracts of ashwagandha made using alcohol and water will likely contain higher doses of its natural ingredients, relative to raw powder. So far animal studies with such extracts have shown no evidence of toxicity, even at relatively high doses [33]. However, it is always advisable to take an herbal supplement only after consulting your healthcare provider, especially if you have any ongoing health conditions or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Organixx Turmeric 3D Contains KSM-66 Ashwagandha The Organixx Turmeric 3D formula has always contained ashwagandha extract. As part of our commitment to seeking out the cleanest and most effective supplement ingredients, we upgraded to KSM-66 Ashwagandha in 2019 – the most clinically studied ashwagandha on the market. KSM-66 is a full-spectrum extract produced using a unique proprietary extraction process, based on “Green Chemistry” principles, without using alcohol or any other chemical solvent.

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In today's episode, Aubrey and Courtney discuss the impact that movement has on stress and the subfields of anxiety & depression.  If you have any questions or comments, please contact us at hello@structuresofself.com or on Instagram @structuresofself. We'd love to connect! If you like what you heard, please tell your friends, rate us and subscribe! Your glial cells will thank you. Resources: What are Glial cells: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glia Neuroplasticity and Depression: The brain changes throughout adult life...a process of plasticity By David Hellerstein, Psychology Today https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/heal-your-brain/201107/neuroplasticity-and-depression Binge alcohol alters exercise-driven neuroplasticity lEmily A.BartonaYanbinLubMuradMegjhanibMark E.MaynardaPrathamesh M.KulkarnibBadrinathRoysambJ. LeighLeasureac Responses of glial cells to stress and glucocorticoids BY: F. Jauregui-Huerta,1 Y. Ruvalcaba-Delgadillo,2 R. Gonzalez-Castañeda,1 J. Garcia-Estrada,1,3O. Gonzalez-Perez,1 and S. Luquin1 Stress: the Silent Killer By Christian Amondson Stress: The Killer Disease: Stress and inflammation leave us vulnerable to depression. By Emily Deans (Psychology today)  All About Catecholamines in the Stress Response Fight-or-Flight Chemical Messengers by Elizabeth Scott  The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk  How Your Mental Health Reaps the Benefits of Exercise by Sarah Gingell (Psychology Today)  Analyzing the role of diet and exercise in myelin production, Mayo Clinic https://www.clinicalkey.com/#!/content/playContent/1-s2.0-S2215036618302918 An examination of serotonin and psychological variables in the relationship between exercise and mental health  Can You Be Blissfully Unaware of Your Own Stress? By Cari Romm https://jamesclear.com/exercise-and-depression https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/10/061025085513.htm https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-works-and-why/201803/how-your-mental-health-reaps-the-benefits-exercise https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/exercise-is-an-all-natural-treatment-to-fight-depression https://www.apa.org/topics/anxiety/ --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/structuresofself/support

When you come to a breaking point in your life, continuously being beaten down time after time, struggle after struggle, never seeming to gain your footing for any length of time, one of the things you might find yourself doing is praying for help and for wisdom. You reach out for help to God, the great spirit, the universe, or the higher power you connect with. Healing from physical wounds is one thing, but healing emotional wounds is something entirely different. Not to minimize the pain of physical trauma at all, that's difficult enough as it is and can leave lasting traumatic, emotional wounds that go far deeper than the physical ones that can heal in time. When you're talking about the deep, deep wounds of emotional trauma that leaves scars only you can see; you need more than the body's ability to regenerate over time on its own. It requires a commitment the likes of which you may have never experienced before in your life. Unpacking those old wounds that you've tried so hard to bury in the bottom of your mind, for years, even decades, is not something to be taken lightly. However, the rewards that can come from reliving those memories, processing and learning from them, and forging your personal healing path, are truly life changing. Healing unresolved trauma takes a combined effort of mind, body, and spirit; which is exactly the message my guest on the podcast today is sharing with the world. Alexis Acker-Halbur is the founder and creator of the Never Give Up Institute, and the author of "Never Give Up: Break the Connection Between Stress and Illness". Alex offers anyone who has suffered trauma or loss not just one way forward, but many. A survivor herself—of an astonishing number of traumas including, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, sexual exploitation by a therapist, rape, and cancer—she describes the connection between mind, body, and spirit and shows how the stress and anger she has experienced connect to her life-threatening illnesses.I was in a hospital bed, diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, and fighting for my life—not once but twice. I suddenly saw the connection of how stress and trauma made me so sick. I knew at that moment I needed to survive and find ways to help me thrive.I founded the Never Give Up Institute to help you understand how unresolved stress and trauma can cause illness, increase financial difficulty, and keep you from living a meaningful life.As a survivor myself, and someone who works with trauma survivors, the message that Alex shares today on this episode of the podcast, and what she teaches in her book and online program, "T.R.U.T.H.", is one that resonates so much with me. I'm so honored to share our conversation with you. During our chat, Alex and I cover the following topics:Some of her story of being a survivor, which includes childhood sexual abuse, physical abuse, rape, sexual exploitation, failed relationships and more, in addition to dealing with colon cancer, breast cancer, and auto accident, type 1 diabetes, and other medical issues. The experience of going for a colonoscopy and hours later finding herself being prepped for surgery for colon cancer. She tells of laying in the hospital and praying for answers and help. Her prayers were answered in the form of being presented with a list of every trauma she's ever faced, every disease or physical challenge, and the matching correlation to a past that involved a multitude of unresolved trauma. What she did with this information, and hSupport the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/sPH8pMZ)

It has been my absolute pleasure to welcome Naturopath and all-round cool chick, Jules Galloway onto the podcast this month to talk about the connection between stress, adrenal fatigue and infertility. Jules lives in the incredible Byron Bay and works as a Naturopath. Her speciality is adrenal fatigue but Jules was great at explaining to me that adrenal fatigue is kind of like an end point to other things that can be going wrong in our bodies, so Jules is actually dealing with hormonal issues, thyroid issues, auto-immune conditions and all sorts of other gnarly chronic illnesses. As we were going through the podcast, my brain was constantly thinking 'ding!' - that's a cause of infertility, and also 'ding!' - it's like she is talking to me. Why? Because I'm exactly the same as you guys - I'm a type A. I've always been driven and worked really hard to achieve my goals (and Jules is the same!), which, for women like us, can lead to burnout really quickly. Jules shares her tips for how we can get better at stress, tweak our diet to help stop inflammation, and begin to heal.

Stress. This five letter word is small can be so detrimental to our health.  Chronic stress is the seedling for so many health imbalances. In this episode we discuss: What stress is The difference between good & bad stress How chronic stress effects the body Organic Food For Thought: 3 Foods with more potassium than a banana And more....  http://lifestrengthandhealth.com/77

Arvin Khamseh, from hackmybiology.com talks on the connection between stress hormones, sleep and weight loss.

Alexis Acker-Halbur has survived cancer and diabetes, loss, childhood abuse, rape and sexual exploitation. Her book, Never Give Up: Break the Connection Between Stress and Illness provides stories and tools for making meaning out of life’s events. Alex has her master’s degree in writing and is a communications and writing professional. In her career, she has worked in the health … Read more about this episode...

Alexis Acker-Halbur has survived cancer and diabetes, loss, childhood abuse, rape and sexual exploitation. Her book, Never Give Up: Break the Connection Between Stress and Illness provides stories and tools for making meaning out of life’s events. Alex has her master’s degree in writing and is a communications and writing professional. In her career, she has worked in the health … Read more about this episode...