It’s not the first time that dairy foods have been associated with health risks, but the attention is usually focused on the effects of milk’s naturally-occurring saturated fats and cholesterol, as well as drug and hormonal contamination. More recently, researchers have been looking at the possible long-term effects of milk protein consumption, and they do mean ‘long-term’, going so far as to suggest prenatal effects in expectant Mom’s who consume dairy.  But for the millions of nutritionally-conscious consumers who consider dairy protein like whey an important part of their regimen - not to mention the brands that market such supplements -  this just-published study raises more questions than answers.  We’ll try to put it into perspective in today’  AllStarHealth blog. (more…)

This ancient herbal remedy benefits 21st Century problems like high blood pressure

Drugs used to treat high blood pressure, or hypertension, are notorious for their side-effects, and aren’t always effective on their own. And the non-drug approaches like dietary modification, exercise, and weight loss aren’t always sufficient either. So both doctors and patients commonly seek out safe and potentially-effective adjuncts to managing high blood pressure, to minimize the patient’s reliance on medications. Research suggests that olive leaf extract (OLE) is an herbal approach that deserves consideration by anyone seeking non-drug support for healthy blood pressure. (more…)

Alpha lipoic acid: Your Swiss Army Knife Supplement

With all the economic belt-tightening going on, lots of people are trimming down their supplement regimens.  When it comes to getting to most bang for your supplement buck, there are few that hold a candle to alpha lipoic acid.  Using inexpensive alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is like getting 3 or more supplements in one.  You won’t believe how many different things ALA can do for you, but you’re about to find out in today’s AllStarHealth blog. (more…)