health front

more sleep = fewer calories

“The current obesity epidemic, according to experts, is mostly explained by an increase in caloric intake, rather than lack of exercise,” said Esra Tasali, MD, director of the sleep center at the University of Chicago Medicine.

Dr. Tasali led a new study of young, overweight adults who usually slept less than six and a half hours a night. Following a discussion of good sleep habits, they were able to increase that time to about eight hours, which also led to eating about 270 fewer calories per day.

“Sleep restriction has an effect on appetite regulation that leads to increased food intake, and thus puts you at risk for weight gain over time,” said Dr. Tasali. “The question that everyone was asking was, ‘Well, if this is what happens with sleep loss, can we extend sleep and reverse some of these adverse outcomes?’”

The study took place “in a real-world setting,” with no attempts to control what the participants ate. They also slept in their own beds and tracked their sleep with wearable devices.

SELECTED SOURCES “Effect of sleep extension on objectively assessed energy intake among adults with overweight in real-life settings,” by E. Tasali et al., JAMA Internal Medicine, 2/7/22 • “Getting more sleep reduces caloric intake, a game changer for weight loss programs,” University of Chicago Medical Center, 2/7/22

sleep strategies

The Harvard Medical School offers these tips for better sleep: n Create a sleep sanctuary. Keep TV, computers, and phones out of the bedroom. n Nap only when necessary. And limit naps to 20 or 30 minutes. n Avoid caffeine after noon. n Get regular exercise, but not within three hours of bedtime.

SOURCE “Women and sleep: 5 simple steps to a better night’s rest,” Harvard Medical School HEALTHbeat, 1/7/17

green tea battles the flu

Green tea protects against flu and other upper respiratory tract infections. That’s the conclusion of a new study in the European Journal of Nutrition.

The authors wrote that recent pandemics involving influenza and coronaviruses “have substantially increased global interest in preventive measures against infectious diseases. Given the unpredictable nature of influenza virus, coronavirus, and other respiratory infection virus pandemics, measures aimed at reducing their impact are urgently needed.”

A catechin (type of antioxidant) called epigallocatechin gallate, found in the leaves of Camellia sinensis (tea), has been shown to have antiviral effects. The new study determined that higher volumes of green tea provided stronger preventive effects: three cups per day compared to one, for example. Catechin-containing capsules produced similar effects.

Postum Warm Beverage Mix

The perfect family alternative to coffee or other caffeinated beverages. Rich savory roasted flavor is similar to coffee, but without the caffeine, acidity, or bitterness. Roasted wheat bran, wheat, and molasses are all that is needed to make a delicious coffee replacement. No preservatives, no caffeine, and no GMOs. Relax with a cup of Postum any time of the day.

Melora Manuka Honey & Oil Body Lotion

This unique double action lotion combines two natural products derived directly from New Zealand’s indigenous Manuka plant. The highly effective blend of Manuka honey and Manuka oil gives a unique skin care solution that delivers exceptional results. This body lotion is moisturizing, nourishing, and restoring.

American Provenance Natural Aftershave

With pure witch hazel and calendula, this aftershave for men soothes and tones a freshly shaved face. Sulfate and paraben free. The refreshing scents are made with pure essential oils — no artificial fragrances. Hand crafted in the USA.

Derma E Vitamin C Weightless Moisturizer SPF 45

This lightweight, multi-purpose moisturizer works to brighten, hydrate, and prime the skin while providing broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection. Formulated with stabilized vitamin C to help brighten the look of dark spots, age spots, and acne, along with moisturizing niacinamide and vitamin E, this reef-safe formula is fast-acting and non-pore clogging. Carbone Pasta Sauce

These masterfully crafted sauce recipes will transport you to the iconic New York City restaurant without having to worry about getting a reservation! Each jar is made from the finest tomatoes imported straight from Italy, slow cooked with fresh garlic onions, and basil. Just reach for the shelf, and crack open a jar for instant magic.

Cliganic Certified Organic Caster Oil

This 100% pure and natural oil is cold-pressed and unrefined. Naturally rich in vitamins and fatty acids, yet lightweight and fast absorbing, castor oil can help hydrate your skin, hair, and scalp. Known for its ability to help strengthen and repair dry or damaged hair, it can help enhance the appearance of your hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes.

Play Pretty Beauty Whipped Body Butter Creme Nohea Ani

This creamy, long-lasting whipped butter provides the exceptional moisture you need without the artificial ingredients you don’t. It’s perfect for eczema and dry itchy skin, as well as general daily moisturizing. Nohea Ani is an uplifting topical blend with notes of pomegranate, black currant, and tuberose.

Province Apothecary Full Brow Serum

A powerful blend of active plant botanicals, this unique serum is formulated to encourage hair growth, resulting in healthier, fuller-looking brows. Coffee, argan oil, black seed oil, and burdock work to fortify, thicken, and condition hairs from root to tip, naturally enhancing brows for the perfect shape.

Four Sigmatic Plant-Based Protein with Superfoods

This wholesome protein powder balances the good with the even-better. It’s crafted with pure plant protein, five functional mushrooms, plus adaptogens for daily repair.* Make it a part of your everyday. Makes incredible, immune-supporting smoothies, shakes, and pancakes. Available in Vanilla, Cacao, or Peanut Butter.

Terry Naturally HRG80 Red Ginseng Chewable

Feel your best with this specially grown HRG80 ginseng that boosts the plant’s levels of valuable compounds — noble ginsenosides — to help you meet any challenge in stride. It delivers 7 times more rare, noble ginsenosides so you feel energized and resilient every day.* Supports mental and physical energy.* Chewable tablets — no sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Jarrow Formulas Probiotic Duo Gummies

This formula features two clinicallystudied probiotic strains to help promote digestive and immune system health in just two raspberry gummies daily!* It provides foundational support for the gut with clinically-studied spore-forming probiotic strains, Bacillus coagulans (MTCC 5856), and Bacillus subtilis (DE111® ).* No artificial colors or flavors.

Organic India Sugar Balance

This novel Ayurvedic formula is made of three powerful herbs that help support blood sugar metabolism.* Bimbi, or Ivy Ground, helps slow sugar absorption and provide an endogenous insulin-like action in the bloodstream.* Bougainbelia and Sadabahar support insulin secretion and enhance insulin activity, modulating glucose metabolism.* Clinically tested formula. SunWarrior Active Energy Mango Lemonade

A perfect afternoon energy boost or pre-workout drink to help you power through the moments that matter most. This blend helps boost your energy with methylcobalamin B12 and caffeine from whole coffee fruit extract. Confront physical and mental stress with adaptogenic Peak O2 mushroom blend. Aid endurance with maca and rhodiola, while also supporting circulation with beetroot and tart cherry.

Irwin Naturals Thermo-Fuel Max Fat Burner

This triple action formula is designed to stimulate thermogenesis (fat-burning), support cellular energy production, and deliver core nutritional support to help you achieve and maintain your ideal body composition.* Formulated with green tea, ginseng, caffeine, L-carnitine, B vitamins, spirulina, and more.

Life Extension Dopamine Advantage & Theanine XRTM Stress Relief

Dopamine is called the feel-good neurotransmitter. Dopamine Advantage is a unique blend of phellodendron bark and adenosylcobalamin B12 to help your brain maintain normal dopamine levels, supporting mental drive and motivation.* Theanine XR Stress Relief promotes calm without affecting alertness.* It supplies 400 mg of L-theanine using extendedrelease technology, so you’ll stay on an even keel all day long.*