Marina Buksov (RawFork)

The Hidden Dangers of Inflammatory Seed Oils in Your Kitchen You might be surprised to learn that the oils you use every day could be undermining your cardiovascular health. Vegetable oils like canola, soybean, and corn oil—often labeled as "healthy" or even “organic” —are high in omega-6 fatty acids. While our bodies need some omega-6, an overabundance, especially when paired with low omega-3 intake, can lead to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to heart disease. Why are these oils so prevalent? Their low cost, long shelf life, and high smoke points make them favorites in the food industry, particularly in processed foods. However, their overuse has health consequences that cannot be ignored. To protect your HEART, consider these steps: Check Food Labels → Understand what oils are in the products you buy. Choose Healthier Fats → Opt for oils rich in monounsaturated fats like olive and avocado oil. Balance Your Omega Intake → Incorporate more omega-3-rich foods into your diet. Making small, informed changes can have a big impact on your health. Read more about this in blog check out this → The Silent Killers in Your Kitchen: How Everyday Oils Could be Sabotaging Your Heart Health! #hearthealth #healthyliving #nutritiontips #inflammation #omega3 #healthyeating #wellnessJourney #foodawareness #heartdiseaseprevention #balanceddiet #healthyfats #vegetableoils #cleaneating #holistichealth #chronicinflammation #oxidativestress #healthychoices #foodfacts #healtheducation #pharmacist #herbalist #nutritionist #holistichealth #coach

The Science 🧬 Behind Berberine Berberine isn’t just another herb on the shelf—in fact it’s not an herb at all. It’s an herbal extract that’s scientifically backed with a wide range of health benefits. 🌿 Let’s see exactly what makes it so effective: 🔬 Glycolysis Stimulation - Berberine regulates blood sugar levels naturally by stimulating glycolysis, a process that breaks down glucose for energy. This means Berberine helps your body metabolize glucose more efficiently, which is particularly beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. By enhancing glycolysis, sugar levels decrease without relying on insulin—talk about a natural game-changer! 🧪 Inhibition of DPP4 - Berberine takes it a step further by inhibiting an enzyme called Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 (DPP4). This enzyme breaks down incretin hormones (yes, like the newly popular GLP-1 analogues), and inhibiting it  increases insulin levels and improves blood sugar management. Research shows that berberine fits perfectly into the binding pocket of DPP4, effectively inhibiting it and demonstrating strong anti-hyperglycemic effects. 💧 Lipid-Lowering Effects: If you’re concerned about your heart health, berberine might be your new best friend. Research indicates that it can significantly reduce lipid levels, including triglycerides and plasma-free fatty acids. Whether you’re managing cholesterol levels or simply looking to protect your heart, berberine offers a natural way to support your cardiovascular system. Incorporating Berberine into Your Health Regime: Adding berberine to your daily health routine shouldn’t just be about popping a supplement, but it can help  embrace a holistic approach that aligns with your body’s natural processes. Because it’s not a whole plant but a powerful phytochemical, it is a potent substance, and its interactions with other medications should not be overlooked. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider who understands both allopathic and herbal medicine. They can guide you on the right dosage and ensure that berberine is a safe and effective addition to your health routine. Let’s discuss how this powerful herb can be incorporated into your daily life. Comment below or send me a message, and let’s explore the best approach for you! 💬👇 #berberine #berberisaristata #berberidaceae #plants #alkaloids #benefits #naturalmedicine #ayurveda #TCM  #metabolism #glucose #lipids #properties #antiinflammatory #antioxidant #antimicrobial #antiprotozoal #liver #kidney #cardivascularhealth #chronicdiseases #holistichealth #herbs #herbalremedies #alternativemedicine #healthyliving #tips #pharmacist #herbalist #educator

What is Berberine? Hint: it’s not an herb 🌿 ✨ Let’s talk about one of nature’s most powerful compounds—Berberine!  → It’s not an herb, it’s actually a bright yellow alkaloid extracted from plants like Oregon grape root, barberry, and goldenseal. Known for centuries in Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese Medicine, berberine packs a punch with its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihyperglycemic, and antimicrobial properties. Here’s how Berberine can Transform Your Health: 🔸 Metabolic Regulation -  Struggling with blood sugar levels? Berberine plays a crucial role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. It does this by stimulating glycolysis, which enhances glucose metabolization—making it a natural ally for those managing type 2 diabetes. Research shows that berberine can improve glucose metabolism and lower HbA1c levels as effectively as metformin (also inspired from the plant extract of goat’s rue, by the way)! 🔸 Liver & Kidney Protection - With its hepatoprotective and nephroprotective properties, berberine helps maintain liver function and protects your kidneys from damage. Studies have shown it can even reduce lipid peroxidation and chelate iron, protecting these vital organs from toxicity and functional disorders. 🔸 Immunomodulatory Effects - Berberine is also a powerful immune system supporter. By enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections and maintain a balanced immune response, it is a valuable tool in managing autoimmune and chronic diseases. It’s been shown to suppress inflammatory responses, modulate the balance between different immune cells, and enhance overall immunity. 🔸 Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Superpowers: Berberine’s ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation makes it a key player in the fight against chronic and autoimmune diseases. It works by inhibiting oxidative stress in various tissues, including the liver, kidneys, and pancreas, and by modulating key signaling pathways like AMPK, MAPKs, and Nrf2. Plus, its anti-inflammatory effects can help reduce the impact of chronic inflammation in conditions like arthritis and heart disease. Berberine is truly a multifaceted healer with the science to back it up. Whether you’re dealing with chronic conditions or simply looking to support your overall health, berberine is worth exploring. 🌟 Curious about how berberine could fit into your health routine? Drop a comment below and let’s chat about its potential benefits for you! 💬👇 #berberine #berberisaristata #berberidaceae #plants #alkaloids #benefits #naturalmedicine #ayurveda #TCM  #metabolism #glucose #lipids #properties #antiinflammatory #antioxidant #antimicrobial #antiprotozoal #liver #kidney #cardivascularhealth #chronicdiseases #holistichealth #herbs #herbalremedies #alternativemedicine #healthyliving #tips #pharmacist #herbalist #educator

Why Focusing on Inflammation, Not Just Cholesterol, Matters The liver’s response to inflammation can impact cholesterol levels, but it’s not the cholesterol alone that raises heart health concerns. The real issue emerges when chronic inflammation persists. Continuous inflammation causes the liver to produce higher levels of LDL cholesterol to repair ongoing cellular damage, reflecting the extent of inflammation rather than just poor dietary habits. What’s crucial to understand here is the role of oxidative stress. When inflammation is chronic, oxidative stress can convert LDL cholesterol into oxidized LDL, a form that’s much more likely to adhere to artery walls, potentially leading to plaque buildup and heart disease. This shift in focus—from just “high cholesterol” to chronic inflammation and oxidative stress—reveals why targeting inflammation is so essential. Supporting liver health is a practical way to maintain cholesterol balance. Using liver-supporting herbs like milk thistle, dandelion root, and artichoke, along with an anti-inflammatory diet and regular exercise, can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. These simple lifestyle choices support both the liver and heart. For those in pharmacy or holistic medicine, this approach encourages patients to see beyond cholesterol numbers and consider their overall inflammatory health. Curious about how to support your liver for better heart health? Comment below! ⬇️ #liver #liverhealth #cholesterol #LDL #HDL #inflammation #chronicinflammation #risks #hearthealth #arteriosclerosis #holistichealing #herbalremedies #liverdetox #naturaldetox #bitterherbs #milkthistle #dandelionroot #artichokeextract #antiInflammatorydiet #antioxidants #processedfoods #oxidizedcholesterol #cardiovascularhealth #liversupport #dispensary #pharmacist #herbalist #nutritionist #holistichealth #coach

How to Incorporate Bitter Herbs into Your Diet for Liver Health Ready to give your liver some love with the power of bitter herbs? Incorporating these potent plants into your daily routine can be easier (and tastier!) than you think. Here’s how you can make bitter herbs a regular part of your diet. 🌱 Teas and Infusions: Start your day with a cup of dandelion root, milk thistle seed, or burdock root tea. These herbal teas offer soothing support for liver health and digestion. Or, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to your water for an extra bitter boost. 🍵 Supplements: If you’re looking for a more concentrated dose, herbal supplements are your go-to. Capsules, tinctures, or extracts containing herbs like artichoke, gentian, and burdock root can provide targeted support for liver function, digestion, and blood sugar levels. 🧡 Culinary Delights: Dandelion leaves aren’t just for your lawn—add them to salads or sauté them for a nutrient-packed side dish. Love artichokes? They’re not only delicious steamed or grilled, but also a fantastic way to get your bitter fix. Don’t forget about other bitter greens like arugula, radicchio, and endive—perfect for adding variety and health benefits to your meals! 🥗 Eat More Plants: Make bitter greens a staple on your plate! Try filling half your plate with vegetables, and experiment with incorporating kale, spinach, broccoli, and dandelion greens into your meals. The more you activate those bitter taste receptors, the more your liver and overall health will benefit. Ready to start your bitter herb journey? 🌟 Your liver—and your taste buds—will thank you for it! Explore deeper into the benefits of these amazing herbs by checking out the full blog. 🍀 #liver #gut #health #detox #NAFLD #cholesterol #management #naturalways #herbs #herbal #remedies #bitterherbs #milkthistle #dandelion #artichoke #burdockroot #culinaryuses #supplements #teas #Infusions #pharmacist #herbalist #holistichealth #coach

Liver Detoxification and the Power of Bitter Herbs Many people around the world live with conditions that affect the liver, including cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, liver cancer, liver failure, and hepatitis. Liver disease accounts for nearly 2 million deaths yearly. Your liver is a multitasking powerhouse, handling everything from filtering toxins to managing cholesterol, and even storing vital vitamins and glycogen. But did you know that bitter herbs can give your liver a helping hand in all these processes? 🤔 Let’s look into the world of bitter herbs, where ancient wisdom meets modern science! 🌿 Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum): This Mediterranean native is packed with silymarin, an antioxidant that protects liver cells and supercharges detoxification. It is gentle yet powerful as an ally for optimal liver health and regeneration. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale): Not just a pesky weed, dandelion is a liver detox superstar! Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it helps cleanse your liver, kidneys, and blood while promoting good gut health. 🍃 Artichoke (Cynara scolymus): A bitter herb that not only tastes great but also stimulates bile production, lowers cholesterol, and keeps your liver happy and healthy. Artichokes are a delicious way to support your liver's detox journey. 🥦 Burdock Root (Arctium lappa): Known for its blood-cleansing properties, Burdock Root supports liver health by helping to eliminate toxins. It’s a nutrient-rich herb that’s been celebrated for centuries in traditional medicine. When you taste the bitterness of these herbs, you’re doing more than just enjoying their unique flavors. You’re stimulating your taste receptors, activating your vagus nerve, and moving your body into a state of relaxation where your liver can thrive. Curious to learn more about how these herbs work their magic on your liver? 💫 Check out → the full blog for a deeper look into the science and tradition behind bitter herbs and liver detoxification. Your liver will thank you! 💚 #liver #gut #health #detox #NAFLD #cholesterol #management #naturalways #herbs #herbal #remedies #bitterherbs #milkthistle #dandelion #artichoke #burdockroot #culinaryuses #supplements #teas #Infusions #pharmacist #herbalist #holistichealth #coach

Understanding the Liver's Role in Cholesterol and Inflammation When we think about cholesterol, it's often seen as a direct risk to heart health. However, there’s more to the story—especially when it comes to the liver's role in cholesterol regulation and its response to inflammation. Not only a detoxifying powerhouse,  the liver plays a pivotal role in balancing cholesterol levels. The liver not only produces cholesterol but also clears it from our bloodstream. It does this by packaging cholesterol into LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), which transport cholesterol throughout the body. Here’s where it gets interesting: when inflammation strikes, whether from an injury, infection, or chronic illness, the liver responds by producing more cholesterol. Why? Cholesterol acts as a repair agent, helping to heal damaged tissues. So, elevated LDL levels may sometimes be the body’s way of managing inflammation rather than posing an immediate heart risk. Studies suggest that high cholesterol during inflammatory states can support immune function, aiding in cellular repair. This underscores that high cholesterol doesn’t automatically mean harm—it can signal the liver's natural response to inflammation. For clinicians and patients exploring holistic health options, understanding this relationship opens the door to better, more informed approaches to managing cholesterol. Interested in learning more about how cholesterol impacts your health? Comment below with your questions! ⬇️ #liver #liverhealth #cholesterol #LDL #HDL #inflammation #chronicinflammation #risks #hearthealth #arteriosclerosis #holistichealing #herbalremedies #liverdetox #naturaldetox #bitterherbs #antiInflammatorydiet #antioxidants #oxidizedcholesterol #cardiovascularhealth #liversupport #despensary #pharmacist #herbalist #nutritionist #holistichealth #coach

Vitamin D & K2 – Your Heart’s Best Allies 🌞💪 In the last post, I discussed how excess calcium can be risky for your heart. Now, let’s explore how Vitamin D and K2 come to the rescue. Vitamin D acts like a traffic controller for calcium in your body. It ensures you absorb just the right amount from your diet, keeping your blood levels balanced and your arteries clear. But Vitamin D doesn’t work alone! Vitamin K2 (dubbed by Weston A. Price as “factor X” before its discovery) is another key player. It steps in to direct calcium to where it belongs—your bones—and keeps it from settling in your arteries, which can prevent conditions like arteriosclerosis and coronary artery disease. When Vitamin D levels are low, your body struggles to manage calcium, potentially leading to arterial hardening. That’s why it’s crucial to get enough Vitamin D, either through sunlight, fatty fish, eggs, or fortified foods. Vitamin K2, found in dairy, certain meats, and fermented foods, is just as important. It activates proteins that prevent calcium from building up in your arteries, supporting both heart and bone health. One of my personal favorites that contain all 4 fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) is fermented cod liver oil (as a food or capsule form). Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, and being informed about your calcium and Vitamin D levels are essential. If you want to learn more about how these nutrients work together, check out the full blog at marinabuksov.com! #calcium #hearthealth #calciumbalance #vitaminD #healthyarteries #nutritiontips #vitaminK2 #calciumandheart #heartwellness #healthyliving #bones #strongbones #arteriosclerosis #arterialhealth #cardiovascularhealth #bonehealth #naturalhealing #holistichealth #balanceddiet #healthawareness #preventativecare #pharmacist #herbalist #coach

The Hidden Side of Cholesterol: Is it a Friend or Foe? Did you know your body needs cholesterol to work properly? It’s not just about high or low levels. Cholesterol helps make cell walls strong, creates important hormones, helps our skin make vitamin D, and even helps digest fats. Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that is naturally synthesized and regulated by the liver. It is technically a “sterol”, which is a type of lipid that is soluble in fat. You also get cholesterol from the foods that you eat. But, there's a catch: It's a type of cholesterol called oxidized cholesterol that can cause trouble, sticking to the walls of arteries, which might lead to heart attacks or strokes. Heart disease is still the leading cause of death in the United States. One person dies every 33 seconds in the United States from cardiovascular disease. What makes this bad cholesterol worse? Smoking, some cooking oils, and trans fats found in a lot of packaged snacks and fast food. How can you keep your cholesterol healthy? Eat lots of different colored fruits and vegetables, use healthy fats, and try to avoid processed foods. Want to know more? Check out our full blog post to learn how you can keep your cholesterol in check and protect your heart with some easy tips. Click here to read full blog 👉 https://lnkd.in/eYpH2wck - Marina Buksov #cholesterol #hiddenside #oxidizedcholesterol #hearthealth #cardiovasculardisease #hormone #vitaminD #skin #nutritiontips #eatwell #healthawareness #preventheartdisease #healthychoices #healthyfoods #naturalwellness #healthylivingtips #blog #pharmacist #herbalist #holistichealth #coach

Calcium & Heart Health – The Double-Edged Sword 🦴❤️ Here’s something not talked about when it comes to heart disease and atherosclerosis: the role of calcium. It doesn’t just compose bones—it’s also a key player in heart health. But here’s the catch: too much calcium in your arteries can be a real problem. Imagine your arteries as highways for blood flow. When calcium builds up, it not only narrows but hardens blood vessels, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. This condition, known as arteriosclerosis, impacts a staggering 90% of men and 60% of women over 70. Over time, calcium deposits in your arteries can combine to form specks that harden into plaques, restricting blood flow to vital organs like your heart and brain. But don’t worry! The good news is that with the right balance of calcium, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K2, you can keep those arteries clear and your heart strong. Regular check-ups and being aware of your calcium levels are key steps in managing this risk. Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore how Vitamin D and K2 can help you achieve that balance. #calcium #hearthealth #calciumbalance #vitaminD #healthyarteries #nutritiontips #vitaminK2 #calciumandheart #heartwellness #healthyliving #bones #strongbones #arteriosclerosis #arterialhealth #cardiovascularhealth #bonehealth #naturalhealing #holistichealth #balanceddiet #healthawareness #preventativecare #pharmacist #herbalist #coach