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One of the best ways to spice up a dessert or meal is to add a dash of cinnamon, but cinnamon’s not only useful for pepping up banana bread or oatmeal. When taken as a supplement, cinnamon can have a beneficial impact on blood sugar, as cinnamon supplements have been shown to help lower blood sugar, according to several studies.

Having high blood sugar can drastically impact people who have been diagnosed with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and it can result in damage to the nerves, blood vessels, and organs. High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can be caused by a multitude of reasons including stress, other illness, a lack of exercise, eating too many carbohydrates, or forgetting to take insulin.

It’s especially important for people who have been diagnosed with diabetes to keep track of their blood sugar levels, as maintaining ideal blood sugar levels helps to prevent more serious health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease and vision problems.

With all of the problems that increased blood sugar could potentially lead to, it’s important to know what can help to lower blood sugar, and cinnamon supplements have been shown to have positive effects on blood sugar levels in numerous studies.

As part of a study in Diabetes Care, 30 participants with type 2 diabetes took cinnamon supplements for 40 days, while 30 other participants with type 2 diabetes took a placebo. At the end of the study, all of the participants that took cinnamon supplements showed lower levels of blood sugar, while those taking the placebo saw no change.

Cinnamon, and other spices including cloves and bay leaves, have also shown “insulin-enhancing activity in vitro.” The study also shows that participants who consumed cinnamon for 40 days all saw a reduction in serum glucose, triglyceride, and cholesterol. It concludes by suggesting that adding cinnamon to your diet will help to “reduce risk factors associated with diabetes,” as well as cardiovascular disease risk factors.

A different study from Istanbul Medipol University Institute of Health Sciences found similar results, that regular consumption of three to six grams of cinnamon a day positively impacts blood sugar levels, and the survey recommends the regular consumption of cinnamon or cinnamon supplements.

In addition to helping to lower blood sugar, cinnamon has also been shown to lower levels of oxidative stress, which is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes, as well as many other conditions, according to a study in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.

While cinnamon supplements certainly have their benefits, it’s important to note that the supplements alone won’t help to lower blood sugar or prevent diabetes, and they do not take the place of a healthy diet and regular exercise.

he supplements also do not take the place of diabetes medication for anyone diagnosed with diabetes, as the American Diabetes Association recommends against using cinnamon supplements in place of diabetes medication, though the organization says that cinnamon is a healthy alternative to sugar as a flavorful topping for many dishes.

Erin YarnallErin Yarnall is a freelance food writer. Read moreFILED UNDERBLOOD HEALTH // BODY HEALTH // DIABETES // HEALTH TIPS // SUPPLEMENTS

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It can assist with managing blood glucose levels.By Erin Yarnall Published on April 11, 2022 | 9:00 AMFACT CHECKED BYKIERSTEN HICKMAN

Capricorn Personality Traits: Everything You Need To Know About The Zodiac Sign.

Known as the goat of the 12 zodiac signs, Capricorns represent those born from December 22 to January 19. Those with the Earth sign are natural-born leaders, characterized by their ambitious and determined attitudes as they are extremely goal-oriented.

Their strong work ethic might give others the impression that Capricorns are really that girl as they are often motivated by success and accomplishments. Lovers of the sign are blessed with their utter devotion, as Capricorns are known to be loyal to those they care for.

Stephanie Whaley Vinitwatanakhun, founder of astrology dating app Oromoon, explains Capricorn’s personality traits and shares 2022 predictions for the astrological sign. Keep reading to learn more.

Capricorns are the 10th astrological sign of the zodiac.

Capricorn season begins on the same day as the winter solstice, which is the longest day of the year, indicating the 10th zodiac sign’s resilient attitude and growth mindset. The Capricorn’s authentic nature comes from a place of deep introspection and stillness, as the last Earth sign in the zodiac signs is ruled by Saturn, the 10th house. The goat’s legacy is of the utmost importance to them as Capricorns are driven by developing a strong social reputation and achieving their goals.

Capricorns are ruled by Saturn and are an Earth sign.

Depicted as the strong mountain sea goat scaling a mountain top, Capricorns are relentless when it comes to pursuing their goals. Their astute focus and resolute nature give them a deep sense of purpose, highlighting their abundance of willpower and resolve. Known as the hustler of the zodiac, the Capricorn’s internal mantra pushes them forward, as the steely mountain goat knows that they will only eat if they are willing to work for their meal. The determined Capricorn knows that dreams will remain an illusion unless action is taken. Grounded in reality and exuding pure main character energy, it’s easy to see why Capricorns are a pragmatic Earth sign.

Capricorn Compatibility

Capricorns are most compatible with fellow Capricorns and Tauruses as the Earth signs are both practical and patient in nature, sharing similar values, like loyalty and responsibility.

Water signs like the Pisces, Scorpio and Cancer, which is a sister sign, will also enjoy a spiritual connection with Capricorns, as the signs can work together to create a safe space for honest and vulnerable communication.

Earth (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo) + Water (Pisces, Cancer, Scorpio) = a garden with plenty of water and nurturing not only thrives but survives.

Earth (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo) + Earth (Capricorn, Taurus, Virgo) = an abundance of soil creates the blueprint for an ever-expanding garden.

Capricorn Characteristics

Personality Traits

The Capricorn mantra is, “Will you respect the architecture I build around my highest self, acknowledging the grace of my drive?” These driven hustlers will stop at nothing to bring forth the complete crystallization and transformation of their wildest dreams, reminding us that life is short and we must celebrate our experiences as a parade.

Strengths

Capricorns are known for their persistence and ability to keep going, even when things get rough, engendering an untouchable energy that propels the initiation of our idealistic visions into full gear. The Capricorn’s ability to romanticize their life as a Greek epic allows them to view circumstances, karma, time and restrictions as whispering guides, encouraging our self-governed paths, whereas the obstacles that come our way are a means to test our stamina and desire for said dreams. Capricorns in turn continue to inspire us with their innate wisdom, grounding force and raw dedication to build and expand.

Challenges

Capricorn’s desire to want the best out of life may lead them to be overly influenced by power and material wealth. The Earth sign’s laser focus on their end goals may also mean they are never satisfied and put off celebrating small accomplishments. It’s easy for the pressure to succeed to morph into an unhealthy obsession that prioritizes physical treasures over people.

When challenges or the weight of your responsibilities arise, contemplate and celebrate previous accomplishments, reminding yourself that the journey is as rewarding as the end goal. You’ve carved a beautiful world for yourself that invites others to share in your accomplishments and success, only if you allow them. After all, what we give power has power, and sometimes the pressure to succeed morphs into an obsession that prioritizes the material over people and passions. Taking inspiration from Buddhist principles, we practice releasing our grasp on attachments, things and people that no longer serve our purpose, reminding ourselves that in the end these things matter most: How well did you love? How fully did you live? How deeply did you let go?

Capricorn Relationships

Love & Sex

The Capricorn’s romantic relationships are filled with adoration and heartfelt gestures, as the 10th sign of the zodiac loves to shower the apple of their eye with gifts and one-of-a-kind experiences. To be with a Capricorn is to be immersed in love and affection, as they take their time when observing and understanding the people around them, with an emphasis on the partnerships they pursue romantically. Once a Capricorn sets their eyes on their love, their loyalty and devotion is forever.

Friendships

Capricorns are most likely the personal cheerleader or manager of the friend group, as they want their friends to succeed as well. Often the one to give you the truth or a much-needed pep talk, Capricorns inspire their close circle to kill it at life with them, as they only want the best for those they love.

At Work

Known as the architects of the zodiac, the Capricorn archetype appears at the top of a cliff, surveying the vast landscape below as they contemplate the blueprint they’ll create to bring together and build their empire. With competitive advantages rooted in persistence and tenacity, their gifts inspire others to achieve the “impossible,” influencing others to invest in their own potential. As the last cardinal earth sign of the zodiac, Capricorn energy emits a leadership know-how that effectively brings people together in a kind and thorough manner with key attention to their vision.

Capricorn Predictions for 2022

“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.” – Paulo Coelho

Authentic and relentless souls, 2022 is the year for Capricorns to decide what success looks like for them. Remember, your emotional devotion to the idea of “success” is defined not by others, but by your appreciation and gratitude towards your own efforts and displays of loyalty. Emphasize your abilities to communicate the authentic truths that exist beneath that stoic exterior of yours, for your inner compass enables you to create a reality rooted in wisdom and practicality.

Capricorn Mindful Mantra for 2022: Finding safety in the willpower and structures I set for myself, I guide the universe with my integrity and ambition to not only imagine fantasy, but to provide the tools and blueprint to act upon my loftiest dreams. I’m encouraged to connect through varied methods of communication, for I am reminded my expressions of thought are direct expressions of my creative joy, a necessary motivator when building upon the narrative that inspires the world to climb higher with purpose and steadfast conviction.

For the astro-curious and enthusiasts alike, the astrology dating app Oromoon invites you to find your best relationship, starting within. Led by Latinx astrologer and founder Stephanie Whaley Vinitwatanakhun, the backbone of Oromoon centers around the guidance of a diverse set of perspectives. “We’re manifesting a safe and inclusive community where our Guests feel inspired and connected.” Whaley says. “We aim to serve as a conduit to facilitate and nurture collective soul care. With the stars as our guide, Oromoon does the heavy lifting, saves time and offers faith in an age of uncertainty.”

Check out the astrology dating app, rooted in the art of awareness, on its website and Instagram.

Collette GrimesApril 20, 2022

Learn the bare basics of anti-aging skincare for men and how to adapt your daily routine to be even more effective..

dmit it—getting old is not nearly as bad as you thought it would be. You don’t feel as worn down as you’d imagined, you don’t spend hours on end rocking in a rocking chair (although if you do, that’s awesome), and you certainly don’t look as ancient as you anticipated. A lot of that comes down to adopting healthier habits earlier in life, such as exercising or eating well, that help mitigate the wear and tear on our bodies. This is especially true for our faces, as more guys than ever are getting their skincare game on early in life and staving off the fine lines, sagging, and wrinkles that had us thinking we’d turn out looking like our grandfathers by the time we hit 50.

However, the skincare stuff you use in your 20s may not be doing enough once you hit your 30s. This means it’s time to shift your focus to anti-aging products designed to help maintain your youthful looks. The good news is that upping the ante on your skincare routine is easy and it won’t break the bank. To help us navigate the world of anti-aging skincare for men, we enlisted the help of board-certified dermatologist Dr. Julie Russak of NYC’s Russak Dermatology Clinic to see what works, what you need, and when to use it.

Why Make The Switch?

We know what you’re thinking: anti-aging products are for the old. Wrong. According to Dr. Russak, “Anti-aging skincare is not so much about reversing aging as maintaining healthier skin for longer.” Think of anti-aging skincare as the best way to get a solid ROI from all the effort you put in already. In fact, a basic wash-and-moisturize routine when you’re younger is, in effect, a form of anti-aging skincare because it keeps your skin healthy, but as we get older our skin needs certain products with a bit more oomph to maintain its hale and hearty appearance.

What Makes Anti-Aging Products So Special?

Beyond the clever marketing, what makes a product “anti-aging” is the inclusion of several ingredients that are shown to have a real impact on the look and feel of our skin. Ingredients to look for include retinol, which can help to improve skin’s firmness, clarity, and the look of fine lines and wrinkles, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as glycolic acid, which speed up the skin’s renewal process, vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant known for helping to boost the firmness and brightness of skin, peptides, which are amino acids that can help stimulate collagen production, and hyaluronic acid, a compound which holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water and helps to deeply hydrate skin for a plumper, smoother appearance.

The Bare Basics

A basic anti-aging skincare routine for men doesn’t have to be elaborate, painful, or expensive. Dr. Russak walked us through a simple routine any guy could get on board with.

Step 1: Cleanse

What It Does: “Cleansing is very important to remove any dirt from the face, and it’s important to cleanse both in the morning and at night,” she explained. While your basic foaming cleanser can still do a great job, now is a great time to take stock of your skin’s needs. As we age, our oil glands tend to dial back on sebum productivity, so you may want to choose a cleanser that’s milder, like Simple Kind to Skin Moisturizing Face Wash ($5.89). On the other hand, if your skin is normal to oily, opt for a cleanser that offers a bit of exfoliation to help boost the skin’s cell renewal process, such as Jack Black Deep Dive Glycolic Facial Cleanser ($23).

When To Use It: Twice a day, morning and night.

Step 2: Serum

What It Does: Serums are lightweight products that are supercharged with active ingredients that can make a profound effect on your skin when used daily. Think of serums as the power tools of your skincare routine. A great place to start is with a basic peptide serum like The Ordinary Buffet ($14.80), which, like its name suggests, contains a veritable buffet of ingredients including several peptides to keep skin smooth and hydrated. If you’re ready to go advanced straight away, go with a retinol-based serum like The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane ($6.70), which can help tackle fine lines and wrinkles, or a vitamin C serum like Kiehl’s Powerful-Strength Line-Reducing Concentrate ($92) to give skin an overall boost in brightness, smoothness, and clarity, while increasing hydration thanks to the inclusion of hyaluronic acid.

When To Use It: After cleansing and before moisturizing, usually morning and night, but make sure to follow the product instructions to avoid overuse.

Step 3: Eye cream

What It Does: “The skin under the eyes is incredibly thin and delicate, and wrinkles easily with age,” Dr. Russak explained, so do yourself a favor and get into the habit of using an eye treatment early on in life. Considering its importance, eye cream is definitely an area where, if you’re able, you may splurge a bit. Dr. Russak recommended Erno Laszlo Multi-Task Eye Gel ($72) which is stacked with soothing and hydrating ingredients like algae extract and peptides that help to reduce puffiness, lines, and wrinkles around the eye. If your eye area is extra dry, opt for Paula’s Choice Anti-Aging Eye Cream ($35) which immediately hydrates and smoothes the eye area while peptides go to work tackling fine lines and wrinkles.

When To Use It: Twice a day, morning and night.

Step 4: Moisturize

What It Does: “A moisturizer is very important for day and night to keep hydration levels balanced,” Dr. Russak said. The key to getting your moisturizer right is choosing one that complements your skin’s needs. If you’re on the oily side, go with a lightweight formula, like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30 ($18.99) or Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment for Men ($35). If you’re on the drier side, choose a moisturizer that contains barrier-boosting ingredients like shea butter and squalane, such as Clinique for Men Anti-Age Moisturizer ($41) or Versed Dew Point Moisturizing Gel-Cream ($11.99) which is loaded with hyaluronic acid and aloe vera extract to inundate skin with moisture without feeling too heavy or greasy. For extra wrinkle-fighting action that works with all skin types, opt for a retinol-laced product like PC4MEN Nighttime Repair ($35).

When To Use: Twice a day, morning and night. However, if you opt for a moisturizer with SPF, save that for daytime use only and choose a non-SPF product for at night.

Step 5: Sunscreen

What It Does: Sunscreen isn’t as much a step as it is an essential. The sun is literally the worst thing for your skin. Exposure to UV rays can cause skin to become less elastic, thicker (or even leathery) in texture. Over time, too much sun can affect your skin’s underlying connective tissue, causing wrinkles and lines. So, unless you want to effectively render all your time, effort, and money spent on anti-aging skincare moot, wear SPF as the final step in your skincare routine every day. Every single day. Even if there’s no sun. Opt for a formulation that’s high in SPF and lightweight in texture, such as Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion SPF 50 ($15.99). You can also kill two birds with one stone and choose a moisturizer with SPF already included.

The Final Takeaway

When it comes to looking your best, all it takes is a few minutes a day and the right products and ingredients to make a real difference. Remember, an anti-aging approach to skincare isn’t about turning back time, but rather helping skin to look and feel healthy while maintaining that health. As our largest organ, skin is equipped with many functions and mechanisms to protect and defend our bodies, so the better care you take of it, the better off it’ll be.

By Bryan Levandowski Apr 07 2022, 5:48 PM

With Its Bio-Enhancing Abilities, Piperine Is The Secret Sauce In Our Multi.

f you’ve hopped on the turmeric health trend over the past couple of years, we don’t have to tell you how powerful the anti-inflammatory ingredient is. You may have wondered why it’s recommended to always pair turmeric with black pepper, though (especially in sweeter desserts and drinks, like golden milk).

As it turns out, this pairing is anything but random (one reason: it helps optimize turmeric’s absorption). But this botanical can stand on its own two feet as well. The secret to black pepper’s potent health benefits?* An organic compound called piperine. 

What is piperine?

Piperine is a naturally occurring phytonutrient compound (think of it as black pepper’s MVP bioactive) that gives freshly ground pepper its sharp, biting flavor. It’s found in piper fruits from the Piperaceae family but is most concentrated in Piper nigrum, or black pepper.

Black pepper is a botanical that has been utilized as an ingredient in natural remedies and recipes in ancient Indian (Ayurvedic) and Chinese medicine for centuries, and piperine’s health benefits are touted in modern scientific studies as well.* 

Health benefits of piperine.

ultimate multivitamin+Next gen multi formula that supports longevity*★ ★ ★ ★ ★★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (30)SHOP NOW

Piperine has many bioactive effects in the body. For starters, its antioxidant activity supports liver function, a vital organ for many critical pathways in the body—including detoxification.* Piperine also boasts anti-inflammatory actions, which have direct relevance for promoting a robust and balanced immune response.* And who doesn’t need that these days?

Additionally, piperine can support daily digestion by stimulating digestive enzymes in the pancreas and intestines.* On the cellular level, it even has antimicrobial properties!*

Piperine’s most impressive feat, however, is its ability to enhance the bioavailability of other botanical ingredients. 

Together is always better.

While piperine’s solo health benefits are certainly nothing to scoff at, its role as a bio-enhancer is what makes it a truly valuable ingredient in food, supplements, and beyond. It’s why you grind a little fresh pepper into your golden milk, and you better believe it’s the reason mbg chose black pepper fruit extract as one of the ingredients in our plant-centric multivitamin formula (that these doctors, scientists, nutritionists, and more are raving about). 

The botanical bioactive we boost with piperine is resveratrol from Japanese knotweed root extract.* On its own, resveratrol is a powerful phytonutrient that promotes cognitive function, aids cardiovascular health, and supports the immune system.* Unfortunately, it’s tough for the human body to take advantage of resveratrol’s health properties because it metabolizes rapidly. When paired with piperine, resveratrol’s bioavailability is increased and the duo becomes a botanical longevity powerhouse that supports cellular resilience, combats oxidative stress, and protects mitochondrial health.* 

The takeaway.

Piperine is a dynamic plant bioactive that is highly valued for its bio-enhancing abilities (and a “secret sauce” ingredient for botanical teamwork and absorption).* At mindbodygreen, we’re proud of the lineup of longevity botanicals that support cellular functions, integrity, and health; combat oxidative stress; and promote longevity in the comprehensive and cutting-edge ultimate multivitamin+.*

Thanks to the power of piperine, our formula is more bioactive and bioavailable for users, making it a prime choice for supporting your daily nutrient and phytonutrient needs.*If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications, consult with your doctor before starting a supplement routine. It is always optimal to consult with a health care provider when considering what supplements are right for you.★ ★ ★ ★ ★★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (30)ultimate multivitamin+Next gen multi formula that supports longevity*SHOP NOWMorgan Chamberlainmbg Supplement EditorMorgan Chamberlain is a supplement editor at mindbodygreen. She graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Science degree in magazine journalism and a minor in nutrition….

mbg Supplement EditorBy Morgan ChamberlainExpert review byAshley Jordan Ferira, Ph.D., RDN /mgb health.com

Connecting Soul & Science

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