Franken-foods. That's what genetically modified organisms are. And the consequences may be dangerous for anyone that likes to eat. NurseDegree.net came out with a great graphic showing some of the serious issues and consequences of these man-made crops. Enjoy:

There are many ways to increase your metabolism. For most people it starts with the right diet and exercise. An efficient metabolism also requires the smooth running of many complex body processes that rely on sufficient antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and the B vitamins, and sometimes supplements are required to correct any deficiencies. There are also a variety of herbs and spices that can boost your metabolism. Here are eight of them:

Click here to see Ulta Therm, Nature's Sunshine's newest product that helps boost metabolism

Herbs that Boost Your Metabolism

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Tumeric

That spice that's in almost every curry -- that's turmeric. It has been reported to increase metabolism by increasing bile production within the body, as well as lowering blood sugar levels. Be careful with curry, though. Curries are full of creams and fats that do anything but increase your metabolism. Further Turmeric (or Curcumin) benefits are that it can help detoxify your blood and support a healthy inflammation response. Turmeric or Curcumin should be taken with peperine or black pepper to help with bioavailability. 

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper helps support body fat by increasing oxygen consumption. Cayenne pepper may also support blood pressure, blood circulation, and digestion. Capsicum is a natural stimulant without the threatening side effects (palpitations, hyper-activity or rise in blood pressure) like most other stimulating agents. Cayenne's primary chemical ingredients include capsaicin, capsanthin, beta carotene, flavonoids, and vitamin C. Cayenne Pepper is a very high source of Vitamins A and C, has the complete B complexes, and is very rich in organic calcium and potassium.

Cinnamon

It is known as an "insulin mimicker" meaning it minimizes the amount of insulin your body produces after a meal by transporting sugar molecules into cells within the body.Cinnamon also may slow down the emptying of the stomach after a large meal, leaving you to fill fuller and less likely to snack. Now, cinnamon rolls don't count. Cinnamon is also an ingredient in our new product, Sweet FX.

Kelp

Kelp is a natural thyroid stimulant, which may support metabolism. Kelp, as well as other seaweeds, raise metabolism in two ways: they affect the thyroid gland and they increase basal metabolic rate (the speed at which your body burns calories while at rest). Iodine, an important component of kelp, has a direct effect on basal metabolic rate. Kelp is believed to stimulate a thyroid hormone which is responsible for boosting metabolism. By returning the iodine levels to normal, it can help alleviate low-grade hypothyroidism. Kelp contains large amounts of potassium, and naturally varying amounts of trace minerals, which may be useful in maintaining proper glandular function and metabolism. Some medications for high blood pressure can increase potassium levels in the blood. Taking Kelp along with some medications for high blood pressure might cause too much potassium in the blood.

Ginger

Studies by ICMR(Indian Council of Medical Research) show ginger supported the digestion process by absorbing the necessary nutrients into the system and regulated the metabolism cycle. The gingerol is the majorly active component in ginger. Such active components in ginger activate the muscular activity in the digestive track and stimulate the chemical reactions in the digestive system. Ginger is an important ingredient used in the traditional Ayurvedic medicines to support the metabolism and digestive system. Researchers have found that ginger may help settle the stomach during times of occasional nausea, motion sickness and morning sickness.

Yerba Mate

A stimulant similar to caffeine, this herb can also increase blood pressure. Yerba Mate is also is a good source of antioxidants. It also contains many nutrients like potassium, chromium, iron, niacin and magnesium. Yerba Mate suppresses your appetite and increases energy levels, therefore stimulating the ability to burn unwanted calories faster. Yerba Mate contains a content named mateine, which increase metabolism and energy. It also help you to get rid of allergy symptoms, act as a gentle diuretic and colon cleanse, nutritionally speed up the healing process and decrease stress. Yerba mate can be used in as a tea drink. It is also found in a supplement pill or energy drink. Those who are on blood pressure medication or are sensitive to stimulants should avoid Yerba Mate.

Green Tea

Green tea is a thermogenic agent, which means, that you may burn more calories. Green Tea is also a stimulant which contains powerful antioxidant, as well as, caffeine. The antioxidants found in green tea also aids in energy production. It can also be found in capsules for those who do not wish to make tea. The chemical in green tea, or Green Tea extract, known as EGCG (or epigallocatechin gallate) is known to speed up your metabolism, among many other benefits.

Bitter Orange

Bitter Orange which is an extract of Seville oranges is a stimulant and works on receptors in fat tissues.

The health of your intestinal system may also represent the health of your entire body. Every nutrient first has to be digested and passed through the intestines before it can make it to the other organs. The stomach and intestines are often the first line of defense for your immune system, too.

Nature's Sunshine has plenty of supplements for the intestines. But to make things a bit more clear, we put this graphic together below to help you understand 8 of them and how they could help your intestinal health:

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8 Nutritional Supplements that Support a Healthy Intestinal System

Nature’s Three

• Nature's Three provides insoluble and soluble fiber from psyllium, oat and apple. Both kinds of fiber are critical to a properly functioning intestinal system. 
• Encourages regular bowel movements
• Helps maintain cholesterol levels already in the normal range

LBSII

• LBSII Herbal blend supports the intestinal system, promoting optimal bowel function and clearing the bowels of toxic waste. 
• Contains cascara sagrada, buckthorn, licorice, capsicum, ginger, Oregon grape, turkey rhubarb, couch grass and red clover

Cascara Sagrada

• This “sacred bark” has been used by cultures the world over as a nutritional support for waste elimination. Cascara Sagrada acts as an herbal laxative, influences intestinal contraction and supports a clean colon. 

Intestinal Soothe and Build

• Intestinal Soothe and Build are made up of herbs that soothe and balance the bowel. 
• Maintains the proper balance of microflora for optimal function. 
• Also helps relieve occasional bloating pressure, soother the mucous membranes lining the intestinal tract, relaxes the bowl and encourages the removal of toxins. 
• Contains slippery elm bark, chamomile flowers, plantain leaves, rose hips fruit, bugleweed aerial parts and marshmallow root. 

Aloe Vera Liquid:

• Aloe Vera Liquid nourishes the digestive and intestinal systems
• Soothes internal tissues of the digestive and intestinal tracts
• Contain vitamins, minerals and other important nutrients
• Supports intestinal health

CleanStart/Tiao He Cleanse

• Cleansing products (such as CleanStart and Tiao He Cleanse) help rid your body of common colon toxins that affect your overall health and supports natural waste elimination to provide a sense of energy and well-being.

Food Enzymes

• Food Enzymes break down toxins and undigested food to keep your intestinal tract healthy.  
• One capsule digests: 30 g Protein, 30 g Carbohydrates, 20 g Fat

Probiotic Eleven

• Probiotic Eleven is a unique combination of healthful friendly  bacteria to help maintain and replenish intestinal supply.  
• Each capsule contains 6 billion microorganisms. 

Anti-Gas TCM

• Anti-Gas TCM is a highly concentrated blend of 15 Chinese herbs that support the digestive and detoxifying functions of the body, including the urinary system.  

Since it is intestinal health month, we decided to graphically bring you health information concerning probably the most important part of the whole intestinal system: Poo.

Poo really is no laughing matter. Much can be learned about your intestinal health, and your overall health for that matter, by the state of your feces.

Everything from the shape, size, smell, color, could indicate disease, poor diet, or something else. Even the color and smell of your urine can give you a hint about your overall health.

I looked around the Web for some of the best graphics to help you understand your own digestive health a little bit better. And since the average human will produce 9,000 pounds of poo over their lifetimes, this should help everyone:

To see supplements for the intestinal system, go here.

Know Your Poop

What Your Poop And Pee Are Telling Your Body

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Source:What Your Poop and Pee Mean

The Facts About Poop

The Facts About Poop infographic

A fast-paced world requires us to stay mentally sharp.  But the average American diet is doing all it can to keep our brain synapses from firing on all cylinders.  

While life demands more and more from your brain, the food you eat may be giving you a lot of calories without the nutrients you need to meet those demands.

Fortunately, it isn’t hard to find the nutrient-dense foods your brain is craving. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, pass up the processed, sugary items for some of these brain-healthy (and delicious) alternatives:

In general, you want foods that provide 4 things:

• Omega-3s 
• Antioxidants
• Anti-inflammation
• Blood circulation

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Why Omega-3s for the Brain

Your brain is mostly composed of fat, and it needs fatty acids to process information and for brain cells to communicate.  Omega-3 fatty acids – particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) – play an essential role in allowing brain cells to transmit signals properly. Lack of DHA can cause brain signals to become garbled and difficult to read. The harder it is for your brain cells to talk to one another, the harder it is for you to control mood, concentrate, and remember things. 

Research also suggests that DHA can actually help you feel happier by prompting your body to release serotonin, the chemical the body uses to boost mood and relieve depression. 

Why Antioxidants for the Brain?

Eating foods rich in antioxidants helps control the buildup of free radicals. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals and halt the damaging effects they have on the body. Berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, goji berries, and many others are a great source of antioxidants, as are a variety of nuts and seeds.

Why Blood Circulation for the Brain?

While only making up two percent of total body weight, the brain consumes 20 percent of the oxygen your body takes it. Your brain needs oxygen, and your blood is what delivers it. Having a healthy blood flow means that oxygen and nutrients can keep the brain going at full power.  Foods like goji berries naturally promote circulation. 

Why Anti-Inflammatory Foods?

Various factors contribute to the gradual decline of mental acuity as we age. Recent studies suggest  that inflammation, high blood pressure, elevated insulin levels, obesity, arterial inelasticity and a condition known as metabolic syndrome are all risk factors and can lead to a decline in brain health.

13 Super Brain Foods:

Fish: Salmon, anchovies, mackerel, tuna

Awash with nutrients, coldwater fish like salmon are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which play an important role in strengthening synapses in your brain, strengthening brain function and memory. One concern that many have about consuming fish are the levels of mercury that accumulate through the food chain and residing in salmon. To avoid contaminates, experts recommend eating wild salmon. Wild Salmon is also an excellent source of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), two potent omega-3 fatty acids that douse inflammation. Sardines, anchovies, and mackerel are also packed with brain-healthy omega-3s, but have lower levels of mercury that may be found in other fish. They’re easy to find canned in grocery stores and you can easily make them an ingredient in snacks and meals. 

Turmeric

This Asian spice Turmeric is commonly found in pre-mixed curry powder and contains a powerful, non-toxic compound called curcumin. Studies found that turmeric’s anti-inflammatory effects are on a par with many potent drugs yet has none of their side effects. Although we don’t recommend substituting anything in place of a doctor’s advice. 

In studies, Turmeric upregulates LDL receptor activity. 

Mushrooms: 

For thousands of years, the Chinese have revered mushrooms, specifically Shiitake, Cordyceps, and Reishi, for their immune-boosting properties. Mushrooms may reduce platelet aggregation, increase blood flow, and supports lower cholesterol levels. See also: Why Mushrooms Might be the Ultimate SuperFood.

Avocado

Many consider avocadoes to be the food of the gods. This nutrient-packed fruit (yes, it’s technically a fruit) is high in monosaturated fat, which helps lower cholesterol and improve blood flow. Since the brain uses 20% of all oxygen the body consumes, it’s vital to have healthy blood flow to carry oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Avocados are a good source for omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E, which functions as an antioxidant and promotes healthy brain activity. 

Go Nuts!

Researchers have linked tree nuts to a decreased risk of many diseases. Now there’s evidence that they also improve cognition. Most have high concentrations of vitamin E, B vitamins, antioxidants, magnesium, minerals and Omega-3s. All support the nervous system.  

The walnut’s shape resembles a brain, so why shouldn’t it be a brain food? It is! Rich in both omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, walnuts offer a variety of benefits for brain health.  Since omega-3 fatty acids are typically found in meats, walnuts provide a great non-meat alternative. They can help you concentrate and protect your brain against the effects of aging. Walnuts have also been shown to improve mood by influencing the brain’s serotonin levels. For those who suffer from depression, insomnia, or related issues, walnuts may be a helpful food to munch on.

Almonds may help save your memory. In studies on laboratory mice, the rodents rendered temporarily amnesiac were more apt to remember their way around a maze 24 hours later if they first consumed an almond paste. The evidence suggests that almonds slow the decline in cognitive abilities linked to Alzheimer's disease. Investigators attribute the memory effects to the presence of the essential amino acid phenylalanine and L-carnitine, believed to boost neurotransmitters essential to memory.

Brazil nuts can spare the obese the vascular damage associated with adiposity. An excess of fat tissue stimulates low-grade inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can lead to cardiovascular disease.

With high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and bioactive substances that combat inflammation--selenium, phenolic compounds, folate, magnesium among them--Brazil nuts improved microcirculation, lowered cholesterol levels, and normalized blood lipid profiles without causing weight gain in 17 obese female adolescents.

Green Tea

China’s favorite drink has been shown to provide many benefits for memory and spatial learning, and may impact cellular mechanisms in the brain. The organic chemical, EGCG (epigallocatechin-3 gallate) that is also found in green tea extract, is a key property of green tea and is a known antioxidant. EGCG is also found to boost the production of neural progenitor cells, which like stems cells can adapt, or differentiate, into various type of cells. In laboratory studies, EGCG enhances learning and memory by improving object and spatial memory. 

Seeds: Flax, Chia, hemp, sesame

These small seeds provide big benefits for both the body and the brain. An even more potent source of omega-3 fatty acids than walnuts, and also a source of B vitamins, eating flaxseeds can be a great way to give your brain cells what they need for improved cognitive function and memory. Flaxseed is also a source of manganese, which acts as a powerful antioxidant.  It’s best to grind flaxseed before eating it, since the body has difficulty absorbing the seed’s nutrients when left in its natural state. 

Chia seeds are a super-food that the ancient Mayans and Aztecs heavily relied upon. These seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and contain more antioxidants than blueberries. Add chia seeds to your diet for improved concentration, memory, mood, and protection against degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. 

Sesame and hemp seeds contain plant sterols that help modulate the immune system and bring down an overreaction. 

Quinoa

Quinoa is an all-around good grain. It makes up a complete protein, containing all nine of the essential amino acids. Quinoa is also an excellent source of iron, which is needed to produce energy for the brain’s neurons. It is also rich in riboflavin (or vitamin B2), which is another important energy source. Since the brain consumes such a large amount of the body’s energy, it’s important to eat the right foods to supply it. Riboflavin also functions as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, Kale, Spinach, Collard Greens, Brussel Sprouts, Cauliflower, and cabbage

Kids may not consider this the world’s best-tasting food, but broccoli has become highly regarded for being a great source of nutrients. One thing that it’s rich in is Vitamin K, which has been shown to prevent arterial calcification in the brain, which may be linked to Alzheimer’s. Vitamin K also plays a role in creating important fats that the brain needs to perform properly. Other good sources for Vitamin K are kale, spinach, collard greens, and brussels sprouts. Broccoli also contains sulforaphane that helps the body get rid of potentially carcinogenic compounds. In studies, broccoli, red cabbage and sulforaphane have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.  

Sweet Potato

A good complex carbohydrate, it’s also a good source of beta-carotene, manganese, vitamin B6 and C as well as dietary fiber. Combined, these are powerful antioxidants that support inflammation in the body.

Berries: Blackberries, Blueberries, Goji Berries, StrawBerries, Cranberries -- there is no bad berry

Adding berries to your diet can help your brain better process information stay mentally sharp. Loaded up with polyphenols and antioxidants, berries can help reduce inflammation in brain cells, making it easier for them to talk to each other. Polyphenols found in blackberries also help reduce accumulation of toxins in the brain. 

Some evidence suggests blueberries, strawberries and cranberries can improve metabolic syndrome through lessoning inflammation. 

Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which have been shown to slow brain aging. Virgin olive oil is Mediterranean’s secret to longevity. Its rich supply of polyphenols protects the heart and blood vessels from inflammation. The monounsaturated fats in olive oil are also turned into anti-inflammatory agents by the body that can lower occurrences of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Water

Don’t forget this important nutrient. Water makes up 85% of brain weight. A study in Neurology found that dehydration decreases brain volume, and rehydration increases cerebral volume significantly. 

Sources: 
Top 10 Anti-Inflammatory Foods You’ve Got to Know http://theconsciouslife.com/top-10-anti-inflammatory-foods.htm
Brainy Beverage: Study Reveals How Green Tea Boosts Brain Cell Production to Aid Memory http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/09/120905083852.htm
Influence of dietary blueberry and broccoli on cecal microbiota activity and colon morphology in mdr1a(-/-) mice, a model of inflammatory bowel diseases http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22113065
Research reveals a broccoli boost for arteries http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/newsandeventspggrp/imperialcollege/newssummary/news_4-9-2009-15-8-42
Strawberries, Blueberries, and Cranberries in the Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Perspectives. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22082311
Curcumin up-regulates LDL receptor expression via the sterol regulatory element pathway in HepG2 cells. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1870488
Tweaking dietary fat intake could help slow brain aging, study suggests http://www.boston.com/dailydose/2012/05/18/tweaking-dietary-fat-intake-could-help-slow-brain-aging-study-suggests/OO7tmvxhB2E8V0algT7DlL/story.html
Time to go nuts: Nuts may extend brain and body power http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2012-04-04/lifestyle/sns-201204031830--tms--premhnstr--k-i20120404apr04_1_brazil-nuts-acids-vitamin
Dehydration confounds the assessment of brain atrophy http://www.neurology.org/content/64/3/548.abstract
Why Mushrooms Might Be The Ultimate Superfood  http://www.naturessunshine.com/blog/post/mushrooms.aspx

Did you know your brain has 100,000 miles worth of blood vessels, enough to circle the Earth four times? Did you know there are 100 billion neurons? Did you know 20% of the oxygen you inhale is used by the brain?

Science is still trying to unlock all the mysteries of the human brain, which is much more than a fascinating organ and a remarkable computing device. Check out OnlineSchools.org graphic revealing 15 surprising facts about the most important organ of the body:

Prevention is the key to longevity. No matter what age you are, there are risks, and early detection is vital in preventing, diagnosing and surviving many cancers and other serious diseases. Most on this list include heart disease and cancer.

This handy chart goes through risks at all ages and the corresponding tests you should take in each decade of your life.

Infographic by Greatist.

Some of the numbers from this graphic by Online Nursing Programs are shocking -- especially when you compare the amount of sugar the average person used to eat.

For instance, in 1822, the average American consumed 45 grams of sugar (the average amount of a 12-ounce soda) EVERY 5 DAYS. Today, Americans average 765 grams of sugar every 5 days and about 3 pounds of sugar every week!

Related Infographic: 9 Ways Soda Destroys Your Health

And many still wonder why there's a rise in obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Refined sugar is linked to those things and hypertension, aching limbs, high blood pressure, depression, acne, headaches, fatigue, stiffening of arteries, violence, nervous tension and more. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 9.5 teaspoons of sugar per day and the average adult averages 22 teaspoons per day. And even worse, the average child averages 32 teaspoons per day.

Check out this graphic for more sugar stats:

Created by: www.OnlineNursingPrograms.com

The year 2013 is only a week old. Anything can change in a week, and many may have already broken their new resolutions. Whether you're still staying strong or are looking to start over again this new week with a commitment to be healthy, here's some simple advice:  

Are you healthy? If you are, keep doing what you're doing. Keep going to the gym, eating right and taking the right nutritional supplements. If you're not sure if you're healthy or not, take the Nature's Sunshine health assesment here. 

If you know that you're not healthy, and you want to be healthy, change something! It's really that simple. Your body reacts quickly to positive changes. But you've gotta be serious about them. 

"Your body's like a piece of dynamite. You can tap it with a pencil all day, but you'll never make it explode. You it it with a hammer, bang! Get serious, do 40 hard minutes, not an hour and a half of nonsense." -- Jason Statham.  

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There are a lot of nutritional supplements out there. For some, it can be daunting to know what to take, and what parts of the body they benefit.

This graphic shows some basic nutrients that support the skin, brain, eyes, lungs, intestines, bones, colon, joints, muscles and heart. If you want to dig further into a specific area, and go beyond these basic nutrients, try out our Health Assesment quiz to see what could help you for your specific needs.  

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Supplements for the Heart:

• Omega 3 EFAs
• Soluble Fiber
• B-Complex Vitamins
• Reservatrol
• Calcium and Magnesium
• Vitamins A, C, and E