7 Natural Sweeteners That Are Not Erythritol

Recently, there has been news about a study suggesting that erythritol, a sugar alcohol alternative sweetener, might increase the risk of blood clots and is linked to cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes. This information raises concerns about whether to completely avoid the product, use it in moderation, or question the validity of the study.

This article aims to clarify erythritol—its advantages, disadvantages, and how it functions—and provides natural sweetener alternatives. If you have concerns about heart health, it’s advisable to consult with your doctor directly. For personalized nutrition advice, consider working with a registered dietitian for the latest evidence-based information.

Erythritol is a sugar alcohol commonly found in calorie-reduced products like baked goods and candy. Marketed to people with diabetes due to its lower sugar content, it provides minimal caloric value compared to regular table sugar. While it is not inherently dangerous, a recent study suggests a potential increase in blood clot formation, particularly risky for those with pre-existing heart conditions.

Unlike other sugar alcohols that may impact gut health, erythritol is absorbed into the bloodstream before reaching the colon, reducing the likelihood of digestive issues. Despite its presence in foods like watermelon, grapes, pears, and mushrooms, avoiding these foods is unnecessary unless there is an allergy.

Concerns arise from the tendency of individuals to consume large amounts of erythritol when used as a sugar substitute. Research indicates that when erythritol is used as a sweetener, the levels can be over 1,000 times greater than those naturally found in foods.

Considering alternatives to erythritol, it’s crucial to read nutritional labels to ensure its absence. Some natural sweetener options include:

1. Stevia: Extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, it is sweet with minimal calories and widely used in baking, coffee, and tea.
2. Coconut Sugar: Derived from the sap of coconut palm trees, it has a caramel-like flavor and can substitute for granulated sugar.
3. Monk Fruit: Extracted from the monk fruit, it is significantly sweeter than sugar and has zero calories, often combined with erythritol.
4. Maple Syrup: Collected from maple trees, it has a rich flavor and various uses beyond breakfast.
5. Agave: Derived from the agave plant, it is sweeter than sugar and used in syrup form or added to baked goods.
6. Dates: Used as sweeteners in various forms, including paste, whole fruit, and syrup, with a rich, caramel-like flavor.
7. Allulose: A low-calorie sweetener naturally occurring in some fruits or produced commercially.

While more research is needed on erythritol’s safety, especially for those with heart conditions, exploring natural sweetener alternatives offers diverse options for various purposes. Note that not all alternatives are calorie-free or low in carbohydrates, so checking ingredient lists is essential for those monitoring sugar intake.

Discover Akkermansia muciniphila: The Microbiome Superstar That Demands Your Attention!

Research on the intestinal microbiome is revealing potential new probiotic species that could revolutionize medicine. The gut microbiome is a complex and diverse system comprising genetic material from trillions of microorganisms (microbiota). Undoubtedly, it significantly influences our health and wellness.Studies demonstrate that the microbiome profoundly affects various systems and plays crucial roles in digestive, immune, and mental health. An imbalance in the intestinal microbiome can lead to a range of issues, from occasional digestive distress like gas and bloating to more significant challenges such as obesity, diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and inflammation.Among the exciting probiotics, Akkermansia muciniphila stands out as it plays a key role in maintaining gut lining health and promoting improved insulin action, aiding in combating obesity and blood sugar control. Interestingly, its effectiveness is not solely due to its live probiotic properties but also to some of the compounds it produces.In fact, studies have shown that A. muciniphila is more effective when dead rather than alive. This finding challenges the commercial belief that only live probiotic bacteria expressed in colony-forming units (CFUs) are effective. A. muciniphila breaks this mold, proving its unique attributes.The importance of A. muciniphila lies in its role in maintaining the health of the mucin layer, which protects the cells lining the intestinal tract. The presence of higher levels of A. muciniphila is associated with improved intestinal barrier function, reduced intestinal permeability (leaky gut), and overall better digestive and absorptive function. Conversely, a lack of A. muciniphila compromises the gut barrier, leading to the absorption of gut-derived toxins that can trigger an overactive immune system, inflammation, and various health issues.Notably, research indicates a strong connection between A. muciniphila levels and diabetes and obesity. As the levels of A. muciniphila decrease in the gut microbiome, the rates of obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and metabolic disorders increase, and vice versa. The assumption is that these disorders are linked to altered gut barrier function due to reduced mucin protection, which leads to the absorption of gut-derived toxins, triggering chronic inflammation and insulin resistance.The first human clinical trial with Akkermansia muciniphila showed promising results, indicating its safety and potential therapeutic effects. Interestingly, the dead bacteria outperformed the live bacteria, challenging the common focus on colony-forming units rather than clinically tested forms and dosages.A. muciniphila has been referred to as a “slimy” probiotic due to the exopolysaccharides covering it, which protect a beneficial protein called Amuc_1100. This protein is crucial for the bacteria’s positive effects on gut health, inflammation reduction, and prevention of gut-derived toxins’ absorption.To enhance the growth of A. muciniphila in the intestinal microbiome, certain dietary factors can be beneficial, including a FODMAP diet, flavonoids, fish oils, and berberine. The FODMAP diet includes fermentable foods that promote the growth of this probiotic. Flavonoids found in fruits, vegetables, green tea, and dark chocolate have been shown to increase A. muciniphila levels. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils and berberine from various plants have demonstrated positive effects on the gut microbiome, including increased levels of A. muciniphila.In conclusion, the research on Akkermansia muciniphila is promising, and its potential to improve various aspects of health, especially in the context of diabetes and obesity, makes it an exciting area for further investigation and potential medical applications.

Do you know that infrared light can have a positive impact on thyroid function?

Hypothyroidism is a disorder in which the thyroid gland produces too few hormones compared to the body’s needs. According to some studies, it affects about 4-21% of adult women and about 3-16% of men, with Hashimoto’s disease being the most common cause. The standard procedure after diagnosis is to prescribe artificial levothyroxine (Euthyrox/Letrox). However, finding the appropriate dosage is difficult due to various reasons, such as fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels that differ depending on the time of day, stress levels, and menstrual cycle in women. Additionally, regulating one hormone in the body may affect others, and most doctors focus on norms that do not take into account the patient’s age or gender, forget to suggest supplementation, or to take into account the patient’s symptoms.

Taking levothyroxine is important, especially for Hashimoto’s disease, as it inhibits the growth of nodules on the thyroid gland. However, today I want to share with you a study on photobiomodulation using infrared light.

In July 2020, a study showed that photobiomodulation using infrared light:

• increases the efficiency of the thyroid gland by 70 times
• is 15 times more effective in reducing the dose of levothyroxine

compared to the addition of supplements alone to the patient’s diet.

In summary, the study lasted three months and involved 350 people (including 340 women), who were divided into two groups. The first group underwent infrared light irradiation at a wavelength of 850 nm and received supplements of vitamin D3, iron, and selenium. The second group received only supplementation. Vitamin D3 and iron supplementation only applied to those who had deficiencies in these nutrients, while everyone received 100 micrograms of selenium. The antyTPO marker, which is measured in Hashimoto’s disease, decreased significantly in Group 1, from 705.9 to 193.8 (44% reduction!!!), while in Group 2 it dropped from 645.9 to 526.1 (an 18.6% decrease). The levothyroxine dosage in patients in Group 1 was reduced from 419.2 to 208.8 (50.2% reduction!!!), and 60 patients in this group completely stopped taking the drug. In Group 2, the decrease was smaller, from 385.1 to 369.9 (3.95%).

Infrared light has anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties, which, as seen in the study, can produce spectacular results. However, since not everyone has a laser emitting an 850 nm wavelength at home, the answer is the sun. Even when the sky is cloudy, about 32% of light, including 42% of infrared light, reaches us. So, with the upcoming spring and May Day, you can take advantage of this information without spending money on specialized equipment.

Unlocking the Healing Power of Neuromuscular Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide

Neuromuscular therapy is a form of bodywork that aims to relieve pain and improve mobility by targeting trigger points and releasing tension in the muscles. It is a highly effective form of therapy that can help to alleviate chronic pain, improve athletic performance, and promote overall health and wellness.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the science behind neuromuscular therapy, its benefits and applications, and what to expect during a session.

Understanding Neuromuscular Therapy

Neuromuscular therapy is based on the concept that pain and discomfort in the body are often caused by trigger points – areas of muscle tissue that are tense and sensitive to pressure. These trigger points can cause referred pain, meaning that pain is felt in another part of the body, rather than the site of the trigger point itself.

Neuromuscular therapists use a variety of techniques to release tension in the muscles, including deep tissue massage, stretching, and myofascial release. By applying pressure to the trigger points, they can help to release the tension and alleviate pain and discomfort.

Benefits of Neuromuscular Therapy

Neuromuscular therapy has a wide range of benefits for both physical and mental health. Here are just a few of the ways that it can help to improve your overall wellbeing:

• Relieves pain and discomfort: Neuromuscular therapy can be highly effective in relieving chronic pain and discomfort caused by trigger points. By targeting these areas of tension, therapists can help to release the muscles and promote healing.
• Improves mobility: By releasing tension in the muscles, neuromuscular therapy can help to improve mobility and range of motion. This can be particularly beneficial for athletes or those with mobility issues.
• Reduces stress and anxiety: Neuromuscular therapy can be a deeply relaxing experience, helping to reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of calm and wellbeing.
• Promotes healing: By improving blood flow and promoting relaxation, neuromuscular therapy can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
• Enhances athletic performance: Neuromuscular therapy can help to improve athletic performance by releasing tension in the muscles and promoting proper alignment and posture.

What to Expect During a Neuromuscular Therapy Session

If you’re considering neuromuscular therapy, you may be wondering what to expect during a session. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Evaluation: At the beginning of your session, your therapist will perform an evaluation to assess your needs and identify any areas of tension or discomfort.
• Treatment: Your therapist will then use a variety of techniques to release tension in the muscles and alleviate pain and discomfort. These may include deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and stretching.
• Home care recommendations: Your therapist may also provide you with recommendations for home care, such as stretches or exercises, to help maintain the benefits of your session.
• Follow-up: Your therapist may recommend follow-up sessions depending on your individual needs and goals.

Choosing a Neuromuscular Therapist

Choosing the right neuromuscular therapist is an important part of ensuring a successful session. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a therapist:

• Qualifications: Look for a therapist who is qualified and experienced in neuromuscular therapy. They should have completed a training program and have a certification in the field.
• Reviews: Check reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get an idea of their experience with the therapist.
• Comfort level: It’s important to feel comfortable with your therapist, so consider scheduling a consultation or phone call to discuss your needs and get a sense of their approach.
• Location and availability: Consider the location and availability of

What supplements for calming down and stress?

Are you wondering what supplements and for calming and stress will be best for you? If you have been looking for an effective way to reduce it and improve your well-being for a long time, then it’s perfect. Over-the-counter sedation pills are available in our online store and can help you reduce stress and nervous conditions without the slightest problem. Choose the best supplements for sedation and stress and you will effectively improve your productivity throughout the day and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, depression and panic attacks. We are well aware that our times leading us to situations where we are unable to handle our emotions. No matter what we intend to do to reduce our stress, in addition to physical activity, we can afford to supplement with stress and nerve pills. If you are wondering what is good for stress you must realize that there are a number of options to help us reduce it. First of all, in order to keep our mental health at the right level, a very important job we need to do is to work on our approach to all things. We usually get upset about things that are not entirely within our control. The frustration that is constantly building up in our society is not good and adversely affects our productivity.

Is stress important in our lives?

Of course, stress and the feeling of it is one of the inherent elements of our lives. Its appearance every day is more than certain. The most important aspect is to create a reality for ourselves to cope with it and reduce unnecessary stressful situations. As a matter of fact, its appropriate level is essential for good functioning and motivation. It is stress that forces us to function better. Unfortunately, when we can’t control it, it’s worth considering what to do to calm down. Stress can lead to a number of problems with our immune system, proper functioning and affect our training activity, as well as its effectiveness. One of the safest ways to deal with it is magnesium for stress. Low levels of magnesium in the blood can lead to stressful situations and an inability to cope with them. If you are interested in finding out what is good for calming down you need to be aware of the availability of a number of natural substances that make it much easier to bring our body to a situation where it is able to cope with the stress of a hard day at work, the finalization of a difficult project, or an unusual professional or private situation.

The best supplements for stress

It has not been known for a long time that among the most effective supplements for stress, magnesium is very often mentioned. However, what if its supplementation is not enough? In relief come stress supplements, which enjoy a proven and safe effect among those concerned. If until now you have not realized the answer to the question of what helps in stressful situations, it is high time to choose the right vitamins and supplements for calming down, which effectively offset the effects of chronic stress.
What supplements for stress?

Among the most commonly chosen products to help combat stress is Ashwagandha. This health-promoting supplement is an effective way to reduce stress, anxiety and calmness. In addition, its action guarantees a restful, long sleep thanks to the reduction of high levels of cortisol – the stress hormone. With adequate sleep duration going hand in hand with stress reduction, systematic use of Ashwagandha increases libido and testosterone levels. Alleviating feelings of nervousness, calming and improving mood continues regardless of the situations that arise.

An additional supplement that effectively reduces the risk of chronic+z stress, will lower our tension and fatigue levels is Rhodiola Rosea. This supplement from the adaptogen family helps protect against the negative effects of stress. The composition includes rhodiola rosea extract. The proposed supplement allows you to effectively and significantly increase the cognitive activities of the brain and facilitate concentration.

Another way to reduce the feeling of stress during extraordinary situations in our lives, as well as daily tension remains the highest quality B vitamins. This complex has a positive effect on many functions taking place in the human body, and, above all, significantly improves the quality of sleep and reduces the level of daily stress.

Like the aforementioned substances, similarly, Gaba enables proper reduction of the effects of stress. It positively influences mood and aids recovery.

Summary

Stressful situations are an inevitable part of our lives. Learning ways to cope with them is crucial. Ways to reduce stress are not only the use of proper supplementation. It is worth paying attention to the hygiene of one’s daily life and daily regimen, which can allow one to function better. Properly chosen breathing exercises, physical activity such as yoga or any form of cardio can be an important element. Each of these elements allows for additional natural support of the body, increasing its performance and guarantees to support natural methods to cope even in difficult and highly stressful situations. Need to learn more about stress and ways to reduce it? Get help from our experts and learn about the range of substances available in our online store that can effectively help you reduce stressful situations. And what are your proven methods for dealing with stress? What do you do in situations that require you to have the right level of focus while remaining composed? The use of dietary supplements with proven effects and over-the-counter tranquilizers is just one way.