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Milk Thistle, Silymarin or Silybin: What's the Difference?

3 min read

Your liver is one of the hardest working organs in your body. It's responsible for filtering out toxins and waste from your bloodstream. So when it becomes overloaded, it needs a little help.

Milk thistle has been used for hundreds of years as a natural way to support liver health. But what is the difference between milk thistle, silymarin and silybin?

Milk Thistle, Silymarin or Silybin: Which is best for you?

If you're looking for a natural way to improve liver function, milk thistle may be the answer. This herb has been used for centuries to treat liver problems, and recent research has shown that it can be effective in treating a wide variety of liver diseases.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is a plant that has reddish-purple flowers and is native to the Mediterranean region. The plant has been used for centuries to treat liver and gallbladder problems. Milk thistle is thought to work by protecting the liver from damage and helping to regenerate new liver cells.

Silymarin

Silymarin is a mixture of flavonoid compounds that are commonly extracted from the fruit and seeds of the milk thistle plant. Silymarin has become a popular supplement's active compound due to its purported ability to protect the liver from damage and improve its overall function.

While there is still much research to be done on the potential health benefits of silymarin, preliminary studies have shown that this antioxidant compound may help to protect the liver from toxins, reduce inflammation, and stimulate new cell growth. Additionally, silymarin has been shown to improve the function of enzymes involved in detoxification processes in the liver.

Silybin

Silymarin, as previously stated, is a large compound extracted from the milk thistle plant. It is a complex of flavonoids that can be broken down into many smaller parts, one of which is called silybin. Silybin is the most powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammation agent of all the components. In short, Silybin is the major active component of silymarin.

Liver: The Unsung Hero in Our Body

Few people know that the liver is the largest internal organ in the human body. The liver is responsible for a variety of functions within the body, all of which are essential to keeping us healthy. These functions can be broadly grouped into five categories: filtration, metabolism, storage, synthesis, and secretion.

Filtration is one of the most important functions of the liver. The liver filters blood coming from the digestive tract, removing toxins and other harmful substances before they can enter circulation. The liver also produces bile, which helps to break down fats in the digestive process.
Metabolism is another crucial function of the liver. The liver breaks down nutrients from food into energy that can be used by the body.
It also regulates levels of glucose in the blood and stores vitamins and minerals.
The liver synthesizes proteins and produces cholesterol and other lipids needed by the body.

Unfortunately, the liver is also susceptible to damage from a number of different sources. Alcohol abuse is one of the most common causes of liver damage, but other factors such as low testosterone, sleep deprivation, obesity, viral infections, and certain medications can also cause problems.

Silent Consequence of Consistent Liver Damage

The silent consequence of consistent liver damage is that it often progresses to a more advanced stage before symptoms are noticeable. This means that by the time someone experiences symptoms of liver damage, the condition is often quite advanced and difficult to treat.

Liver disease progression

Inflammation. At this early stage, your liver becomes enlarged or inflamed.
Fibrosis develops when an inflamed liver begins to scar.
Severe scarring has formed on your liver during the cirrhosis stage.
End-of-life liver disease (ESLD). The damage to the liver has progressed to the point where it can only be reversed with a liver transplant.
Liver Cancer happens when there are development and multiplication of abnormal liver cells and can occur at any stage of liver failure, though people with cirrhosis are more vulnerable.

Milk Thistle Protects the Liver

Milk thistle and its extracts are safe and effective liver supplements. The protective active component in milk thistle is rapidly depleted by the liver due to the liver's constant activity 24 hours a day, for those with impaired liver health may need to take a high and repeated oral dose for optimal results.

One should also consider the silybin content of the liver supplement. A high dose of standardised 80% silybin in a liver supplement has higher potency for its antioxidants, detoxification, and improved liver functions. It may be a better option to choose a product with high silybin rather than taking raw milk thistle powder.

Anxiety Medications Lorazepam, Alprazolam and Diazepam May All Increase Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease

4 min read

If you or a loved one suffer from anxiety, you are probably all too familiar with searching for ways to ease the symptoms. Whether trying different techniques to relax or looking for the perfect medication, it can be a difficult and long journey. Unfortunately, some of the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications may do more harm than good in the long run.

Anxiety Medications Lorazepam, Alprazolam and Diazepam May All Increase Risk Of Alzheimer's Disease

Anxiety Medication: Good For Short-Term Use, But Not Prolonged!

While anxiety medications are often prescribed for short-term use, some people end up taking them for much longer. Prolonged use of anxiety medication can have a number of negative side effects, including an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

According to a study published in The BMJ by researchers from France and Canada, taking the drugs for three months or longer may significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease years later. The drugs have been linked to short-term cognitive impairment, but the link to Alzheimer's disease has been less clear. The new study discovers a convincing, and seemingly strong link between benzodiazepines and Alzheimer's disease.

Example of benzodiazepine

Benzodiazepines work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain. This increases the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve cell activity. This action makes benzodiazepines effective at reducing anxiety and inducing sleep. Some benzodiazepines example:

alprazolam
chlordiazepoxide
clorazepate
diazepam
halazepam
lorazepam
oxazepam
prazepam
quazepam

Anxiety Attacks Can Be Triggered By Many Things - Here's What You Need To Know

For many people, anxiety is a normal and even healthy part of life. But for some, anxiety can become so overwhelming that it triggers an anxiety attack. These attacks can be extremely frightening and may even feel like a heart attack or stroke.

It's important to understand what can trigger an anxiety attack so that you can be prepared to manage the symptoms. Anxiety attacks are often caused by a combination of environmental, and internal life stressor factors. Common triggers include:

Internal factors:

Stress is the most common internal factor that triggers anxiety attacks. People may experience anxiety as a result of a variety of life stressors. These are not universal and can have different effects on different people.

When you are under a lot of stress, your body produces more adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause your heart to race and your breathing to become shallow. This can lead to an anxiety attack.

Extreme fatigue & lack of sleep is another trigger for anxiety attacks. When you're tired, your body is more vulnerable to stress and anxiety. This can create a vicious cycle - you're anxious because you're not sleeping, and then you can't sleep because you're anxious.

Medical problems. Some heart, lung, and thyroid conditions can cause symptoms that are similar to or worsen anxiety symptoms.

Environmental factors:

Environmental factors, such as noise or a change in routine, can also be a trigger of an anxiety attack.

People who suffer from anxiety often live in fear of having another attack. They may avoid places or activities that they associate with the attack. This can make it difficult to go about their everyday lives.

Hidden Signs of Anxiety: What You Should Know

You may feel like you're doing just fine, but what if there's something going on behind the scenes? Something that's affecting your work, your relationships, and your day-to-day life? Many of us suffer from hidden anxiety. It's a sneaky condition that can creep up on us slowly and take hold before we even realize it. But there are warning signs. If you're aware of them, you can get help before anxiety takes over.

Here are some hidden signs of anxiety that you should know about.

Feeling restless or on edge: If you find yourself feeling wound up and unable to relax, it could be a sign of anxiety.
Difficulty concentrating: An anxious mind can be a wandering mind. If you’re having trouble focusing on tasks or conversations, it could be due to anxiety.
Changes in sleep patterns: Anxiety can cause insomnia or make it difficult to fall asleep. It can also lead to daytime fatigue.
Muscle tension: Do you find yourself clenching your jaw or shoulders? Or maybe you get headaches more frequently than usual? Muscle tension is a common symptom of anxiety.

Anxiety Treatment at Home

There are several ways to treat anxiety at home that can be very effective.

One way to treat anxiety at home is to exercise regularly. Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety and can help to reduce stress levels. Exercise can also help to improve sleep quality, which can be helpful for people with anxiety.

Another way to treat anxiety at home is to practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. These activities can help to calm the mind and body and can be very helpful in reducing anxiety symptoms.

Finally, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough sleep each night.

If You Are On Anxiety Medications Such As Lorazepam, Alprazolam and Diazepam

If you are currently taking anxiety medication, you should be aware that some research has found that these medications may be linked to Alzheimer's disease. However, it is important not to stop immediately. Stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

If you are concerned about the potential link between anxiety medication and Alzheimer's, talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of continuing your medication.

Man Cries Out in the Night: Is Nocturia Robbing You of Your Sleep?

4 min read

If you're like most people, a good night's sleep is crucial to your overall health and wellbeing. But if you suffer from nocturia, you know that getting a whole night's rest can be next to impossible. Nocturia is a condition that causes you to wake up multiple times during the night to urinate, and it can be extremely disruptive to your sleep cycle.

Man Cries Out in the Night: Is Nocturia Robbing You of Your Sleep?

Is Frequent Urination at Night (Nocturia) Keeping You Up?

Nocturia can be a pesky problem that keeps you up. It affects both men and women equally. According to studies and surveys, 69 % of men and 76 % of women over the age of 40 get up at least once per night to use the restroom.

If you are experiencing nocturia, you may not get a good night's sleep as you have to go to the bathroom several times during the night. It can be caused by many factors. Understanding the situation better can assist you in determining the best treatment option.

5 Common Causes of Nocturia

You wake up in the middle of the night. Again. You’re tired and just want to sleep, but you have to go to the bathroom. If this sounds like you, you may be wondering what’s causing your nocturia and what you can do about it.

1. Polyuria

One common cause of nocturia is polyuria, which is the excessive production of urine. Polyuria can be caused by many different things, including diabetes, drinking too much fluid, and taking certain medications.

Sometimes it can be caused by poor kidney function. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they are unable to retain fluid, resulting in an excessive loss of fluid in the form of urine.

If the nocturia's cause is due to poor kidney function, then treatment involves improving renal function through medications and lifestyle changes.

2. Prostate enlargement

Nocturia is a very common and disruptive symptom of BPH or an enlarged prostate in men.

Because the prostate is enlarged, additional pressure is placed on the urethra (the tube through which urine flows from the bladder and out of the body) and urine is retained in the bladder. Sufferers may need to urinate more frequently or urgently, including at night.

There are a few different ways to treat prostate enlargement. One is by taking a supplement with saw palmetto extract & pumpkin seed oil. This helps to shrink the prostate and make it easier to urinate. Another option is surgery. This is usually only done if the enlargement is severe and causes problems such as urinary retention or obstruction. Medication may also be prescribed to help relieve symptoms.

3. Urinary tract infection (UTI) or bladder infection

UTIs are a common cause of nocturia, especially in women. When a UTI develops, the bacteria can spread to the bladder and cause inflammation and irritation. This can lead to an increase in the frequency of urination, as well as leakage of urine during the night.

If your nocturia is caused by a UTI, you may need to see your doctor for antibiotics.

4. Overactive bladder

When the bladder becomes overactive, it sends signals to the brain that make people feel the need to urinate even when their bladder isn't full. This can lead to frequent trips to the bathroom at night, which can disrupt sleep and cause fatigue during the day.

There are a number of things that can help relieve symptoms of overactive bladder, including lifestyle changes like reducing fluid intake before bed and avoiding caffeine and alcohol. There are also medications available that can help relax the bladder muscles and reduce the frequency of trips to the bathroom.

In a small study, researchers administered 500 to 1,000 milligrammes of pumpkin seed oil to participants. The participants' symptoms of overactive bladder improved dramatically.

5. On certain medications/ supplements

Some common medications that can cause increased urination include diuretics and blood pressure medications. Additionally, some supplements, such as celery extract, can also lead to more frequent trips to the bathroom.

Consult your doctor if you experience frequent urination after starting certain medications or supplements.

Are Nocturia and Painful Urination Related?

Painful urination, also known as dysuria, is a common symptom that can have a variety of causes and is not always related to nocturia.

The most common cause is a urinary tract infection, but other causes include prostate problems, sexually transmitted infections, and kidney stones.

Does Sleep Position Affect Nocturia?

There is currently little research into the best sleeping position for nocturia. As a general rule, choose one that is both comfortable for you, promotes restful sleep, and does not contribute to pain upon waking.

According to some studies, sleep apnea has been linked to OAB symptoms in both men and women. This could be due to the effects of apnea episodes, which can cause low tissue oxygen levels throughout the body, including the urinary system.

Sleeping on your side may help if you have sleep apnea and OAB. It is estimated that switching from back to side sleeping can eliminate sleep apnea symptoms in about 20% of people.

How Can You Prevent Having Urgent Urination at Night?

There are a few things you can do to help prevent having urgent urination at night:

Limit your fluid intake at night. Drink plenty of fluids (especially water) during the day, but limit fluids 2-4 hours before going to bed.
Control your use of diuretics.
Raise your legs or wear compression socks.
Take advantage of afternoon naps.

Take Away

In conclusion, nocturia can be a major cause of sleep deprivation and should be taken seriously. There are several causes of nocturia, and treatment varies depending on the cause. One can experiment with lifestyle changes such as limiting fluid intake before going to bed. If the urgency of urination is caused by prostate enlargement, take supplements to reduce prostate inflammation.

The best course of action is to consult with your doctor to identify and discuss treatment options.