What if your doctor failed to talk to you about the most important threat to your health?

The Hill  10/18/19

What if your doctor failed to talk to you about the most important threat to your health? Wouldn’t you worry about the quality of your health care? Poor quality diet is a leading cause of death in the United States, but it is unlikely that your doctor has the knowledge to even begin a meaningful conversation about your nutrition or to make an appropriate dietary referral.  

Most doctors lack the knowledge necessary to offer nutrition advice to patients; indeed, fewer than 14 percent of physicians report feeling equipped to advise on diet or the connection between food and health. This is unsurprising given that, for example, 90 percent of cardiologists in a recent survey reported receiving minimal or no instruction on nutrition during medical training. 

Yet it is also concerning. Obesity, type-2 diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and stroke, which are leading causes of death in the United States, all are closely linked to diet and nutrition. 

Nearly 40 percent of adults and 18 percent of children are obese, and these numbers are increasing; almost 10 percent of Americans suffer from diabetes, compared with less than 1 percent just 50 years ago. Even more concerning, more than one-third of Americans have pre-diabetes. 

A focus on treatment rather than prevention has led to medical education that ignores the central role that food plays in health. The average U.S. medical school devotes less than 1 percent of total lecture hours to nutrition. Accreditation requirements for medical residencies and fellowships do not include nutrition. 

The standardized exams that medical students must pass to become board certified lack questions that test the ability to advise patients on diet. And to date, no state requires continuing medical education in nutrition or diet-related disease as part of the ongoing education for physicians to maintain licensure. 

This dangerous gap in their education means that doctors do not learn the basic guidance in the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, or stay apprised of the latest nutrition science. Accordingly, they fail to recognize, and are unable to convey to patients, the importance of diet to health. This means fewer referrals to nutritionists, even when diet plays a vital role in their patient’s health.

The lack of nutrition education during medical training is also a costly mistake. Health-care spending has skyrocketed — Medicare benefit payments exceeded $730 billion in 2018 and account for nearly 15 percent of all federal spending.

A bit of sun might help diversify the bugs in your gut

NBC   Oct. 24, 2019

A bit of sun might help diversify the bugs in your gut, a study published Thursday suggests.

Brief exposure to ultraviolet rays not only bumps up vitamin D levels, but could also lead to a more varied collection of gut bacteria, according to the Frontiers in Microbiology study.

On the surface, sunlight and gut microbes seem to have nothing in common — after all, your gut bacteria are unlikely to find themselves catching some rays.

Switzerland’s supreme court rules parents have no right to homeschool their kids

GENEVA, Switzerland, September 18, 2019 (LifeSiteNews) -- Switzerland’s top court ruled that parents do not have a right to homeschool their children.

On Monday, the Swiss Federal Court ruled against a mother from the city of Basel who in 2017 had applied for permission to school her 8-year-old son at home. School authorities rejected the application and a cantonal court threw out the mother’s appeal.

When she brought her case to the Federal Court, the mother held that the appeal court’s decision was tantamount to a ban on private instruction at home, thus violating a constitutional right to privacy and family life.

The high court, however, rejected the mother’s argument, ruling that the constitutional right to a private life does not also apply to homeschooling. The court noted that no international treaty grants a right to homeschooling. 

In addition, the Federal Court ruled that Switzerland’s cantons may decide whether to authorize homeschooling or to ban it outright. In Basel, homeschooling is allowed if applicants can show that the child’s attendance at school is impossible. The Federal Court had ruled earlier that national law does not explicitly grant a right to private instruction at home. Nevertheless, it ruled that cantons may decide how they comply with federal requirements for basic education.

Scottish Doctors Are Now Issuing Prescriptions to Go Hiking

Adventure Journal

Scotland’s Shetland Islands are windswept and rugged, full of wide-open vistas, thousands of squawking migratory birds, awesome rock formations, and winding trails. An epic place for long, lingering walks and time spent decompressing in the joys of raw nature.

It just so happens that doctors are increasingly starting to realize time spent outdoors can be an excellent treatment for chronic health issues. So doctors in the Shetlands are now issuing “nature prescriptions” as part of an initiative to address health issues without drugs if you can imagine that.

For everything from high blood pressure to diabetes, anxiety, and depression, the medical community is learning (though lots of us have always known) that many ailments and diseases can be treated with activities like birdwatching, maybe a little kayaking, perhaps combing a beach for shells, even skipping pebbles across a slow-moving stream. Even just sitting silently in a forest, meditating (see: Japan, forest bathing).

The 16 Best Healing Herbs

Wake Up

There are many different healing herbs, and they all provide different benefits. This list includes some of the most well-known and time-honored healing herbs.

1. Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), also called rennet, Indian ginseng, and winter cherry, has a long history in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s readily available in supplement form, and studies suggest it offers many benefits to both men and women. Ashwagandha supports fertility, memory, and a happy mood. It promotes normal blood sugar and cholesterol, and it helps ease systemic redness and swelling.^{[1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]} One of the most common uses for ashwagandha is to help ease symptoms of menopause. In a study of 51 women, not only was ashwagandha reported to ease mental stress, but it was also found to lessen hot flashes.^[8]

2. Black Cohosh

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is another popular healing herb that women use to ease menopause symptoms. It won’t stop the process of menopause, which is a normal and natural part of aging, but women who take black cohosh may find relief from hot flashes, night sweats, vertigo, and irritability.

Some studies found that black cohosh helped menopause symptoms, while others reported that it did not affect them. Comparisons between studies are challenging because they all used different serving sizes of black cohosh. Regardless, research indicates that the herb is generally safe to use.^[9] It’s most commonly available in a liquid extract or capsule, but you can also find black cohosh as an ingredient in teas that are marketed to women.

3. Chasteberry

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus), sometimes called chaste tree berry, is another healing herb for women’s health. Try chasteberry to relieve premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.^[10] You can make a tea from dried chasteberries, or take an extract or capsule.

More than 50 percent of women who took chasteberry extract for three menstrual cycles reported fewer PMS symptoms, including breast discomfort. Traditionally, nursing mothers have used chasteberry to promote normal breastmilk production, but the research has yet to fully confirm that benefit.

4. Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as purple coneflower, has a long history in herbalism. Native Americans used it for everything from snakebites to colic, and it won modern fame as a natural remedy for seasonal colds. Many people grow echinacea for its glorious purple blooms. The dried flowerhead and buds can be used for tea or made into extracts.

Echinacea is full of antioxidants which protect your cells against damage from free radicals. On top of its well-known role as an immune system booster, studies suggest echinacea may also ease swelling, encourage healthy cell growth, promote normal blood oxygen levels, boost oral health, keep skin looking young, and even improve mood.^[11, 12]

5. Dandelion

If you think dandelion is just a common weed, think again. Traditionally, people used it for liver and digestion issues.^[13] Dandelion boosts urine production, thus promoting normal urinary tract health. Steep dried dandelion leaves to make a liver cleansing tea. You can also add dandelion leaves to salads for a delicious flavor boost. Because dandelion contains high levels of vitamin A, some people make a homemade dandelion salve to nourish and moisturize their skin and soothe sore muscles.

6. Neem

People use nearly every part of the neem tree in herbal remedies, including its seeds, flowers, bark, and leaves. Research shows it helps swelling, infections, dental issues, and fever. Neem’s fatty acids, vitamins, and antioxidants make it a powerful solution for skin conditions when it’s made into a salve, oil, or lotion. A review of studies found that neem also boosts the immune system, eases systemic redness and swelling, resists harmful organisms, promotes normal blood sugar, and encourages healthy cell proliferation.^[14]

7. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel, which contains at least 75 nutrients, is best known for its role in soothing sunburns, but that’s not its only healing property.^[15] Putting the gel on your skin helps wounds heal more quickly, lessens scarring, and reduces redness and swelling. Consuming aloe vera boosts the immune system, fights harmful organisms, and relieves occasional constipation.

Avoid whole-leaf aloe or aloe products that have high levels of aloin, which is harsh on the digestive system. Aloe Fuzion by Global Healing Center is certified organic and contains the most bio-available, 200x potency aloe vera. Unlike other aloe supplements, it’s aloin-free and can provide gentle relief without acting like a harsh laxative.

8. Ginseng

Traditional Chinese Medicine has used ginseng root for centuries. There are a few types of ginseng, including Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng), American ginseng (Panax quinquefolium), and Tienchi ginseng (Panax notoginseng), and they each offer unique benefits.

Korean and Tienchi ginseng are adaptogens that help the body adapt to stress. Korean ginseng helps energy levels, sexual function, and brain health.^[16,17,18] Tienchi ginseng stimulates blood flow, provides energy, and improves physical endurance.^[19] American ginseng promotes normal blood sugar levels.^[20] The best ginseng supplements combine the different types of ginseng.

9. Peppermint

Sometimes called “the world’s oldest medicine,” peppermint and its main component, menthol, are found in chewing gum, toothpaste, soap, herbal tea, and various foods. Historically, people used peppermint to ease a sour stomach and the accompanying gas. Modern studies indicate it may normalize digestive symptoms from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). But, the humble peppermint leaf has many other uses, such as supporting respiratory health, boosting liver function, and relaxing tension headaches.^[21, 22]

10. Passionflower

Feeling a little moody lately? Insomnia, anxiety, nerves, and ADHD all bring down your mood. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) may help lift it back up. It’s known as a natural folk remedy for anxiety.^[23] Research suggests that passionflower can help promote a happy, balanced mood without negative side effects, such as impairing work performance.^[23] There are also studies showing that passionflower may help encourage restful sleep, sharp focus, and calm nerves.

You may find passionflower in liquid or capsule formulations. Although it can be taken by itself, it’s often combined with valerian and hops for added stress reduction.

11. Milk Thistle

For hundreds of years, people have used milk thistle (Silybum marianum) tea to support gallbladder, liver, and prostate health. The herb has anti-inflammatory properties and its protective nutrients help keep toxic substances and organisms from causing harm.^[24, 25] Typically found in capsules and liquid supplements, studies have found that milk thistle may prevent iron overload in the body.^[26] And it may help with weight loss, too.

12. St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) has a unique, and sometimes supernatural, history. Throughout time, people have used this herb to ease depression and create positive moods; because of that, it was once used in wreaths to deter evil spirits.

As a dietary supplement, St. John’s Wort is a helpful remedy for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) as well as menopause symptoms.^[27] Because of its potency, St. John’s Wort may interact with some medications. Check with your healthcare provider before trying it.

13. Sage

Native Americans traditionally light a sage bundle to cleanse and ward off bad energy. Similarly, if something is wrong inside your body, sage (Salvia officinalis) might help.

Sage contains antioxidants, and studies show it may protect against age-related dementia and depression, normalize cholesterol and blood sugar, reduce swelling, and help fight against other chronic illnesses.^[28] To get the most out of sage, add it to your food or make a tea.

14. Ginger

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) offers a great solution for nausea — whether from pregnancy-related morning sickness, flu, or motion sickness. You can find ginger in chewable candies, lozenges, and capsules but your best option is to use the root fresh and raw.

Ginger is a strong anti-inflammatory agent that can soothe muscle discomfort.^[29, 30] Studies also suggest ginger can normalize blood sugar and improve health outcomes in people with type 2 diabetes.^[31] For women, ginger eases the discomfort of menstrual cramping about as much as ibuprofen.^[32] And if you can get ginger gum, the herb helps protect against gingivitis and periodontitis.^[33]

15. Turmeric

If you’ve ever wondered why curry is so yellow, it’s thanks to turmeric (Curcuma longa) — a common Indian spice and healing herb that’s been used for centuries. A relative of ginger, turmeric comes from dried and ground root tubers. Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric. It’s a strong antioxidant that boosts brain and heart health, improves immunity, and reduces systemic redness and swelling.^[34]

To enjoy the most health benefits from curcumin, try a liquid supplement. The advantage of a liquid turmeric extract is that the curcuminoids are more concentrated than a powder.

16. Lavender

Sweetly floral lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is booming in popularity lately. It’s used in everything from baked goods to beverages. Anyone taking a whiff of a delicately scented lavender sachet knows the herb can relax you almost instantly.

People traditionally used lavender to ease anxiety and promote restful sleep, but it has other uses, as well.^[35] After a daily scalp massage with lavender oil, people with alopecia saw less hair fall out and even had some grow back.^[36] Not only is lavender resistant to fungus, but it can also improve circulation and encourage normal blood pressure.^[37] Inhaling lavender helps alleviate discomfort and reduces stress — all while smelling delightful.^[38]

References:

1. Ahmad MK, et al. Withania somnifera improves semen quality by regulating reproductive hormone levels and oxidative stress in seminal plasma of infertile males. Fertil Steril. 2010 Aug;94(3):989-96.
2. Choudhary D, et al. Efficacy and safety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal) root extract in improving memory and cognitive functions. J Diet Suppl. 2017 Nov 2;14(6):599-612.
3. Andallu B, Radhika B. Hypoglycemic, diuretic and hypocholesterolemic effect of winter cherry (Withania somnifera, Dunal) root. Indian J Exp Biol. 2000 Jun;38(6):607-9.
4. Visavadiya NP, Narasimhacharya A. Hypocholesteremic and antioxidant effects of Withania somnifera (Dunal) in hypercholesteremic rats. Phytomedicine. 2007;14(2-3):136-142.
5. Chandrasekhar K, et al. 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. Indian J Psychol Med. 2012 Jul;34(3):255-62.
6. Cooley K, et al. Naturopathic care for anxiety: A randomized controlled trial ISRCTN78958974. PLoS One. 2009 Aug 31;4(8):e6628.
7. Singh N, et al. An overview on ashwagandha: a rasayana (rejuvenator) of Ayurveda. Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2011; 8(5 Suppl):208-213.
8. Modi M, et al. Clinical evaluation of ashokarishta, ashwagandha churna and praval pishti in the management of menopausal syndrome. Ayu. 2012 Oct-Dec; 33(4):511–516.
9. Geller SE, Studee L. Botanical and dietary supplements for menopausal symptoms: what works, what doesn’t. J Womens Health. 2005 Sep;14(7):634–649.
10. Roemheld-Hamm B. Chasteberry. Am Fam Physician. 2005 Sep 1;72(5):821-4.
11. Barrett B. Medicinal properties of Echinacea: a critical review. Phytomedicine. 2003 Jan;10(1):66-86.
12. Manayi A, et al. Echinacea purpurea: pharmacology, phytochemistry and analysis methods. Pharmacogn Rev. 2015 Jan-Jun; 9(17):63–72.
13. Dandelion. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health. Published 19 Oct 2016. Accessed 24 Oct 2018.
14. Subapriya R, Nagini S. Medicinal properties of neem leaves: a review. Curr Med Chem Anticancer Agents. 2005 Mar;5(2):149-6.
15. Surjushe A, et al. Aloe vera: A short review. Indian J Dermatol. 2008; 53(4):163–166.
16. Andrade ED, et al. Study of the efficacy of Korean red ginseng in the treatment of erectile dysfunction. Asian J Androl. 2007 Mar;9(2):241-4.
17. Kim H-G, et al. Antifatigue effects of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. PLoS ONE. 2013;8(4).
18. Ellis JM, Reddy P. Effects of Panax ginseng on quality of life. Ann Pharmacother. 2002 Mar;36(3):375-9.
19. Liang MT, et al. Panax notoginseng supplementation enhances physical performance during endurance exercise. J Strength Cond Res. 2005 Feb;19(1):108-14.
20. Luo JZ, Luo L. Ginseng on hyperglycemia: effects and mechanisms. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2009 Dec;6(4):423-7.
21. Shkurupi? VA, et al. [Efficiency of the use of peppermint (Mentha piperita L) essential oil inhalations in the combined multi-drug therapy for pulmonary tuberculosis]. Probl Tuberk. 2002;(4):36-9.
22. Göbel H, et al. [Peppermint oil in the acute treatment of tension-type headache]. Schmerz. 2016 Jun;30(3):295-310.
23. Akhondzadeh S, et al. Passionflower in the treatment of generalized anxiety: a pilot double-blind randomized controlled trial with oxazepam. J Clin Pharm Ther. 2001 Oct;26(5):363-7.
24. Liu W, et al. Potent inhibitory effect of silibinin from milk thistle on skin inflammation stimuli by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate. Food Funct. 2015 Dec;6(12):3712-9.
25. Kostek H, et al. [Silibinin and its hepatoprotective action from the perspective of a toxicologist]. Przegl Lek. 2012;69(8):541-3.
26. Moayedi B, et al. A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled study of therapeutic effects of silymarin in ?-thalassemia major patients receiving desferrioxamine. Eur J Haematol. 2013 Mar;90(3):202-9.
27. St. John’s Wort. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health. Published 1 Dec 2016. Accessed 24 Oct 2018.
28. Hamidpour M, et al. Chemistry, pharmacology, and medicinal property of sage (Salvia) to prevent and cure illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, depression, dementia, lupus, autism, heart disease, and cancer. J Tradit Complement Med. 2014 Apr-Jun;4(2):82–88.
29. Wang S, et al. Biological properties of 6-gingerol: a brief review. Nat Prod Commun. 2014 Jul;9(7):1027-30.
30. Black CD, et al. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) reduces muscle pain caused by eccentric exercise. J Pain. 2010 Sep;11(9):894-903.
31. Arzati MM, et al. The effects of ginger on fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1c, and lipid profiles in patients with Type 2 Diabetes. Iran J Pharm Res. 2015 Winter;14(1):131–140.
32. Ozgoli G, et al. Comparison of effects of ginger, mefenamic acid, and ibuprofen on pain in women with primary dysmenorrhea. J Altern Complement Med. 2009 Feb;15(2):129-32.
33. Park M, et al. Antibacterial activity of [10]-gingerol and [12]-gingerol isolated from ginger rhizome against periodontal bacteria. Phytother Res. 2008 Nov;22(11):1446-9.
34. Sood S, Nagpal M. Role of curcumin in systemic and oral health: An overview. J Nat Sci Biol Med. 2013 Jan-Jun; 4(1):3–7.
35. Kasper S, et al. Efficacy of orally administered Silexan in patients with anxiety-related restlessness and disturbed sleep – a randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2015 Nov;25(11):1960-7.
36. Hay IC, et al. Randomized trial of aromatherapy. Arch Dermatol. 1998 Nov;134(11):1349-52.
37. Zuzarte M, et al. Chemical composition and antifungal activity of the essential oils of Lavandula viridis LHer. J Med Microbiol. 2011;60(5):612-618.
38. Kim JT, et al. Evaluation of aromatherapy in treating postoperative pain: Pilot study. Pain Practice. 2006;6(4):273-277.

Immigrants’ gut bacteria “westernize” soon after they move to the U.S

The Atlantic Nov 1, 2018

In Thailand, a small group of Hmong women lived in a rural village, far from the nearest town. They grew everything they ate, mostly rice and vegetables. They boiled most of their food, and they rarely consumed meat.

But then something happened to these Hmong women that shocked their systems, permanently altering, in just a short time, the course of their health—as well as the very germs that dwelled inside of them. They immigrated to the United States.

In their new homeland—Minneapolis—they began to eat more protein, sugar, and fat. They indulged, like most Americans do, in processed food. Within a generation, the Hmong women went from having an obesity rate of 5 percent to one of more than 30 percent.

That statistic reflects one of the most vexing things about the well-being of immigrants in the U.S.: Many people who come to the U.S. for a better life end up with worse health. Many different studies have now shown that the longer certain groups live in the U.S., the worse some of their health outcomes get, especially when it comes to obesity. One study found that after one year in America, just 8 percent of immigrants are obese, but among those who have lived in the U.S. for 15 years, the obesity rate is 19 percent.

For years it has been a supposed mystery, but it is finally being acknowledged that a primary cause of cancer in the world today is diet

Walking Times   October 30, 2017

For years it has been a supposed mystery, but it is finally being acknowledged that a primary cause of cancer in the world today is diet. Studies are now showing that obesity plays an enormous role in one’s chances of getting cancer, and the main cause of obesity is the type of foods people eat. It is in large part a lifestyle disease, and the most important relevant lifestyle choice is food.

“Overall, we estimated that 40.8% of incident cancer cases were attributable to exposure to the 24 factors included in the analysis (Table 2). Tobacco smoking was responsible for the greatest cancer burden, accounting for an estimated 15.7% of all incident cancer cases (2485 cases), followed by physical inactivity and excess body weight, which were responsible for an estimated 7.2% and 4.3% of incident cancer cases, respectively. All other exposures of interest were estimated to be responsible for less than 4.0% of incident cancer cases each.” [Source]

More specifically, researchers are pointing out the connection between the body’s insulin response to food and cancer metabolism. In short, there is a paradigm shift taking place and we are admitting that food can either feed or starve cancer cells. Here, in a piece for The Los Angeles Times, writer Sam Apple explains this connection:

“… researchers have made progress in understanding the diet-cancer connection. The advances have emerged in the somewhat esoteric field of cancer metabolism, which investigates how cancer cells turn the nutrients we consume into fuel and building blocks for new cancer cells.

Largely ignored in the last decades of the 20th century, cancer metabolism has undergone a revival as researchers have come to appreciate that some of the most well-known cancer-causing genes, long feared for their role in allowing cancer cells to proliferate without restraint, have another, arguably even more fundamental role: allowing cancer cells to “eat” without restraint. This research may yield a blockbuster cancer treatment, but in the meantime it can provide us with something just as crucial — knowledge about how to prevent the disease in the first place.” [Source]

Does this mean that these new revelations about cancer and the foods which cause it will trigger a widespread shift in the consumption habits of ordinary people? Will people switch to real food and abandon fake food?

Could it also mean that major food companies will face some degree of liability for producing addictive foods which are extremely high in sugars, artificial sweeteners, refined carbohydrates and other ingredients which trigger the body’s insulin response?

Americans work harder than any other country’s citizens: study

By Gregory Bresiger September 3, 2017

Start up the grill. Get the burgers and chicken going. And start imbibing. You deserve it, according to a new work study.

“We’re hard workers. We deserve the day off,” says Liz Bagot, a spokeswoman for NationalToday.com, which conducted the survey of 2,000 Americans.

It turns out the average American works harder than our Japanese counterparts or the average European worker.

“Statistics show that Americans work longer hours than the majority of other countries — 137 hours per year more than Japanese, 260 per year more than in the UK,” according to the study.

By the way, when the comparison is made between the average French worker and the average American worker, we’re talking vive la différence. The American worker records about 500 more working hours per year than his or her French counterpart.

“It’s the reason we can say ‘Thank God it’s Friday.’ Labor Day is a time to celebrate the benefits we enjoy at our jobs — including weekends off,” Bagot adds.

She warns there’s one thing Americans should be careful to avoid during the holiday: “Work, of course.”

Apparently, plenty of Americans already agree with the kick-back, unofficial-end-of-summer Labor Day spirit.

NationalToday.com’s survey found lots of them plan to enjoy the good life this weekend.

Here are some of the results of the poll:

• ­­­Two-thirds of Americans over 21 will quaff a brew this weekend.
• Two-thirds of Americans will also host or go to a barbecue.
• Americans’ favorite barbecue choices are burgers, dogs, chicken and steak.
• The majority of those polled from every region of the nation say they’ll be at a barbecue, although outdoor chow-downs are the most popular in the East.        NY post

Tom Brady saved his career by changing his lifestyle

Scott Davis Feb. 6, 2017, 11:25 AM

Tom Brady pulled off the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history at the age of 39.

To say what Brady is doing at his age is unprecedented is not an exaggeration.

In 2016, Brady put together one of the most efficient seasons of his career, then helped his team come back from 25-point deficit in the Super Bowl to win a historic fifth championship.

Brady's agelessness may stem from the dramatic shift in lifestyle he made during his career. Brady has a famously strict diet, consisting of plenty of all-natural and whole foods and excluding foods like tomatoes and peppers for fear of bloating. He goes to sleep by 9 p.m., doesn't drink, stays away from lifting heavy weights, and focuses on flexibility.

On Monday, while accepting his Super Bowl MVP, Brady talked about his unprecedented career and said that when he was 25 years old he didn't see it coming because he was "hurting all the time." He knew he had to make a change.

"I've tried to just take care of myself through learning through a lot of positive and negative experiences with that. When you're in a locker room for 17 years, you kinda learn what to do and what not to do and what works for you. I've found probably a unique way that's a little outside the box that's really worked.

"I try to spread that message to a lot of other players just because football is a demanding sport and it's a demanding sport on your body. And your body is your asset, and if you are hurting all the time, football is no fun. When I was 25, I was hurting all the time, and I couldn't imagine playing as long as I did, just because, you know, if your arm hurts every day when you throw, how can you keep playing? And now, at 39, my arm never hurts and my body never hurts. Even after I get banged up, I know how to take care of it and jump on it right away, so that I can feel good for a Wednesday practice."

Brady's life is micromanaged to continue playing football at an age when everyone retires. As such, as he's showed no signs of slowing.

On Sunday, it was reported that the Patriots think Brady may play for another three to five years. Brady himself has said he'd like to play well into his 40s. Declines can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, but if Brady can avoid major injury, there's no reason to think he can't keep playing.

One thing is for certain: Brady's own lifestyle will not be the cause of any future decline.     Business Insider

Lifestyle Changes Now Proven to Effectively Treat Major Depression

Alex Pietrowski, February 4, 2017

More than 15 million Americans suffer from serious depression, and it is estimated that globally some 350 million people are struggling with the challenging mental disorder. While the causes of depression are varied and largely unidentifiable, since the 1950’s the pharmaceutical industry has been developing a broad range of antidepressants, and it now estimated that 8-10% of the American population is taking some type of antidepressants.

The problems with antidepressants are wide-ranging including addiction, costs, and a host of unfavorable side-effects including emotional numbness and even an increased risk of suicide. While antidepressants may very well help some people cope with the overwhelming effects of depression in the short-term, pharmaceutical treatments do not cure depression.

Pondering the reasons for such a major increase in depression in our society over the last couple of decades, many have speculated that a combination of lifestyle, social disconnectedness in a technologically advanced society, lack of exercise, environmental pollutants, and increased consumption of nutritionless and heavily processed foods are to blame. Yet, medical science has been slow to fully acknowledge and recommend lifestyle changes to patients, often preferring the recommendation of pharmaceuticals.

A world-first study, however, recently conducted by Deakin University in Australia has shown unequivocally that major depression can be conquered with the right dietary changes.

“We’ve known for some time that there is a clear association between the quality of people’s diets and their risk for depression. This is the case across countries, cultures and age groups, with healthy diets associated with reduced risk, and unhealthy diets associated with increased risk for depression. However, this is the first randomised controlled trial to directly test whether improving diet quality can actually treat clinical depression.” ~Professor Felice Jacka, Director of Deakin’s Food and Mood Centre

The study looked at adults with major depression, evaluating their progress with specific dietary changes over a three-month period, revealing the types of foods which help the most.

“The dietary group received information and assistance to improve the quality of their current diets, with a focus on increasing the consumption of vegetables, fruits, wholegrains, legumes, fish, lean red meats, olive oil and nuts, while reducing their consumption of unhealthy ‘extras’ foods, such as sweets, refined cereals, fried food, fast-food, processed meats and sugary drinks.” [Source]       Read more