We all know that maintaining the “right” diet, as well as keeping up regular exercise, are integral parts of leading a healthy lifestyle. Eating whole foods, including dark leafy vegetables and lean protein, and ensuring that you’re physically active are not only beneficial for your overall health but also for your stem cells! What we mean to say is that, even from the most cellular perspective, “you are what you eat.”
Your stem cells, which can be found in all parts of your body, are undoubtedly affected by diet and exercise. But what specific parts of your nutrition and physical routine should you focus on to produce the best stem cells? Let’s review…
Watch Your Calorie Consumption
Excess calories may hinder stem cell health. In a research publication with mice subjects, a calorie restriction was tested to see if it interfered with stem cell health and function. As researchers discovered, muscle stem cells within the mice demonstrated improved efficiency when the calorie restriction was put in place.
Despite this study focusing on mice, it’s important to note what this can mean for the human body. This also doesn’t mean that patients must severely cut back on their calorie consumption – but simply to be mindful of their calorie intake and to limit excess calories in a balanced and healthy manner.
Maintain Good Blood Sugar Levels
Do you have poor blood sugar levels? This study demonstrated that those with poor blood sugar control had fewer stem cells circulating in their bodies to repair damaged arteries. This suggests that sugar and refined carbohydrates can actually impair and decrease the number of healthy stem cells in the body. For those who love white bread, pasta, and rice, this may mean bad news, as these foods can lead to excess insulin production. In conjunction with minimal physical activity, these two habits can lead to metabolic syndrome – a number of factors that can increase your risk for heart disease and other health problems. The resulting environment for these problems doesn’t produce the best environment for healthy stem cells.
Eat Fresh Foods
Unfortunately, in our day and age, pre-packaged and GMO foods have seeped into the daily diets of the average American. These sorts of foods (including canned food and instant meals) may be packed with artificial chemicals, preservatives and additives that are not beneficial for your stem cells or body. Research has shown that such chemicals even have the capability to reprogram stem cells into cancer cells.
As a rule of thumb, fill your meals with natural whole foods. Think of it this way – aim for foods that took the least amount of steps to get to your plate. These foods tend to be fresher and less “processed.”
Don’t Forget to Exercise
And of course, exercise! Regular physical activity and fitness are undisputedly good for health and wellness. Participating in regular exercise has shown to slow down the effects of aging and sustain the body’s youth. Not only that, but exercise also prevents the risk of many health problems and complications that can alter the production and function of healthy stem cells.
Knowing about how your stem cells are affected by your health is all a part of being knowledgeable and educated about your body. For those who are looking forward to an upcoming treatment, such information might challenge them to change the way they approach nutrition and exercise. If anything, there is no harm in knowing more about your body and how it works!
Contact Orthohealing Center at (310) 312-8095 for more information about Stem Cell Therapy and how it may help you.
