QuintEssential Health

10/19/2025

Did you know that research suggests that deterioration of olfaction (sense of smell) precedes a decline in cognitive abilities? Indeed, olfactory loss is associated with significant losses of brain matter (gray and white) in humans. Loss of olfaction can even predict the progression of mild cognitive impairment to Alzheimer's disease.

Knowing the correlation between olfaction and cognition, researchers set out to investigate whether olfactory enrichment (exposure to fragrances) can improve memory in older adults (aged 60-85). Participants in the study were provided a diffuser and seven essential oils (rose, orange, eucalyptus, lemon, peppermint, rosemary, and lavender). They diffused each oil in a rotation--changing the oil they diffused daily--for two hours as they slept. This process was continued for six months.

The researchers found that aromatic molecules have privileged access to areas of the brain and pathways relevant to olfaction and memory, which may help normalize brain circuitry linked to memory. Remarkably, nightly diffusion improved cognition, memory, and neural functioning by 226%!
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnins.2023.1200448/full

10/04/2025

Physical touch isn’t just comforting, it’s powerful medicine for the mind and body. Hugging and cuddling have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, ease anxiety, and strengthen the immune system, making them essential for emotional and physical well-being.

When we hug or cuddle, the body releases oxytocin, often called the “love hormone.” Oxytocin lowers stress hormone levels, promotes feelings of trust and security, and enhances overall emotional balance. This natural chemical response can calm the nervous system, making it easier to manage anxiety and stress.

In addition to emotional benefits, regular physical affection has measurable impacts on mental health. Studies indicate that people who experience frequent hugs report lower levels of depression, reduced feelings of loneliness, and improved mood. The simple act of holding someone close can send signals to the brain that you are safe, cared for, and connected, an essential human need.

Hugging also supports physical health. Research suggests that touch can improve heart health, lower blood pressure, and even boost immune function. The act of cuddling stimulates circulation, reduces inflammation, and encourages the body to fight off illness more effectively. Regular positive physical contact contributes to overall resilience against both mental and physical stressors.

From comforting friends to embracing loved ones, the simple acts of hugging and cuddling provide more than warmth, they create profound physiological and psychological benefits. Whether it’s a quick hug, a long cuddle, or holding hands, these moments of connection can profoundly influence mental health and immune strength.

In a world often dominated by digital interactions, taking time for real, physical connection can be one of the simplest yet most effective ways to enhance health, happiness, and overall well-being.

10/03/2025

07/08/2025

To prove it to yourself go take measurements before and after smartwatch placement using 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), blood pressure cuff, auscultation of the heart with stethoscope, pulse oximeter to estimate the oxygen level (oxygen saturation) in the blood, palpation of pulse on the opposite wrist smartwatch was placed on, and a peripheral blood smear and you'd never wear any Wearable again.

MAHA wants you all to wear this. So do the Means siblings. These people are Time Thieves for your health bank accounts.

07/03/2025

06/17/2025

A randomized controlled clinical trial tested the effects of inhaling neroli EO on mental health among pregnant women. Participants in the neroli group inhaled five drops of neroli placed on a disposable facemask twice a day (once in the morning and once before going to bed) for 20 minutes over the course of one month. The placebo group followed the same schedule and drops with sweet almond oil. Depression scores significantly decreased in the neroli group compared to the placebo group. Similarly, anxiety scores decreased, while only small improvements in stress were observed. A more robust analysis of the findings concluded that neroli was effective against depression and anxiety, but not stress.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40368523/

04/09/2025

04/09/2025

Most doctors won’t mention these hidden hormone disruptors.

The truth is, many everyday products—from the foods we eat to the toiletries we use—are packed with chemicals that silently mess with your hormones. This results in fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, mood swings, and so much more imbalance in your body.

Awareness of what you’re putting in (and on) your body is the first step to cutting out these disruptors. You can then begin to make simple swaps to protect your body and support your hormone health.

You might start by wearing blue light blockers before bed to improve your sleep. If you’re concerned about the fluoride in your tap water, invest in a high-quality water filter.

And if you’re struggling with too much caffeine, try cutting back and using natural stimulants like matcha green tea instead, still in moderation.

When it comes to personal care products, there are plenty of aluminum-free deodorant brands to choose from, and the same goes for skincare and toiletries.

The catch is that most stores won’t push the non-toxic options. They’re out there, but sometimes it takes a little digging to find them.

Ultimately, these small changes add up, and they can help you reclaim your health and protect your hormones from daily toxins.

Comment ‘HORMONE’ for my free class on the best foods, herbs, and habits to naturally balance your hormones.

04/09/2025

The study, published in Nature Metabolism, found that a maternal diet high in fat, sugar, and refined products, while low in fish, vegetables, and fruit, was linked to a greater risk of these neurodevelopmental disorders.

Even slight deviations towards a more Western diet were associated with a 66% increased risk of ADHD and a 122% increased risk of autism.

The researchers analyzed dietary patterns, blood samples (using metabolomics), and ADHD diagnoses across four large cohorts in Denmark and the United States. The link between the Western diet and ADHD was observed across all four cohorts and validated in three, reinforcing the study’s credibility. The greatest risk was observed in early and mid-pregnancy.

The study also identified 43 specific metabolites in maternal blood that were linked to a Western diet and could help explain the connection between diet and neurodevelopmental disorders, with 15 of these being particularly linked to increased ADHD risk.

The researchers suggest these findings raise important questions about the effectiveness of current dietary guidelines for pregnant women and highlight how crucial dietary composition is for fetal development.

They point out that even small dietary adjustments away from a Western pattern could potentially reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, opening new possibilities for refining dietary recommendations and promoting healthier outcomes for future generations.

RESEARCH PAPER:
David Horner et al., "A western dietary pattern during pregnancy is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and adolescence", Nature Metabolism (2025)

doi: 10.1038/s42255-025-01230-z