A Sense of Doubt blog post #4120 - Can black cumin lower cholesterol?

Black cumin seeds, also known as nigella or kalonji, are commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking.

A Sense of Doubt blog post #4120 - Can black cumin lower cholesterol?

Just this share.

Always looking for ways to be healthy.

Thanks for tuning in.

The lesser-known spice that can help reduce cholesterol

This spice has been linked to improved cholesterol levels – and it's easy to add to everyday meals.

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/article/spice-cholesterol-health-black-cumin-152428729.html

Emma Clarke, Contributor

Updated Thu, April 2, 2026 at 6:32 AM PDT

3 min read

Cholesterol is something many of us hear about, but it can be easy to overlook. While it’s essential for building cells and producing hormones, having too much of the “bad” kind (LDL) can increase your risk of serious health problems.

High cholesterol is linked to one in five cardiovascular disease deaths in the UK, according to the British Heart Foundation. Despite this, more than half of UK adults are thought to have levels above recommended guidelines.

The good news is, small changes to your diet could help. One ingredient that’s been getting attention is black cumin – also known as nigella seeds or kalonji – which is a staple in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking.

A 2025 clinical trial by Osaka Metropolitan University found that people who ate around a tablespoon of black cumin seed powder daily for eight weeks saw improvements in their cholesterol levels – including lower LDL and higher “good” HDL.

"This study strongly suggests that black cumin seeds are useful as a functional food for preventing obesity and lifestyle-related diseases," Professor Kojima–Yuasa said. "It was so gratifying to see black cumin comprehensively demonstrate actual, demonstrable blood lipid-lowering effects in a human trial."

While more research is needed, the findings suggest this humble cupboard ingredient could play a role in supporting heart health, and it’s easy to add to everyday meals, from curries to roasted veg.

6 other benefits of black cumin

Blue nigella sativa flowers are where black cumin seeds come from before they’re harvested and dried.

1. Full of antioxidants

Studies have shown that black cumin is packed with antioxidants, which can help protect your body from free radical cell damage.

2. Has anti-inflammatory effects

Black cumin has also been noted for its anti-inflammatory properties, which could help to alleviate skin conditions such as psoriasis and acne. There has also been research into the effects of black cumin on the management of chronic conditions, such as asthma, and on wound healing.

3. Antibacterial qualities

Additional studies have shown that black cumin boosts significant antibacterial properties, including activity against certain bacteria. This could help boost the immune system and fight off diseases and viruses.

4. May help protect the liver

Black cumin seeds have previously been used to treat liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver and chronic hepatitis C. While more evidence is needed to support this link, there has been no evidence to suggest that black cumin has worsened liver diseases during treatment.

Some studies suggest black cumin may help protect the stomach lining and support digestive health.

5. Could help prevent stomach ulcers

Sometimes, when stomach acid eats away at the protective layer of mucus that lines the stomach, ulcers are formed – and they can be incredibly painful. A 2023 review found trials based on animal research showed that nigella seeds could help preserve the stomach lining, and, therefore, prevent ulcers.

6. Help with blood sugar levels

There has also been some research into the link between black cumin seeds and blood sugar levels, with a clinical review finding that the spice may improve both blood sugar and insulin levels during fasting and after a meal.

How to use black cumin seeds at home

Adding black cumin to your diet doesn’t have to be complicated – a little goes a long way.

• Sprinkle over roasted vegetables like carrots, cauliflower or potatoes

• Stir into curries, stews or lentil dishes for extra depth of flavour

• Add to flatbreads or naan dough before baking

• Toss through salads or grain bowls for a peppery crunch

• Lightly toast and sprinkle over soups or dips

• Mix into yoghurt or drizzle over hummus

• Add a pinch to smoothies or porridge for a subtle boost

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- Bloggery committed by chris tower - 2605.29 - 10:10

- Days ago: MOM = 3984 days ago & DAD = 638 days ago

- New note - On 1807.06, I ceased daily transmission of my Hey Mom feature after three years of daily conversations. I post Hey Mom blog entries on special occasions. I post the days since ("Days Ago") count on my blog each day, and now I have a second count for Days since my Dad died on August 28, 2024. I am now in the same time zone as Google! So, when I post at 10:10 a.m. PDT to coincide with the time of Mom's death, I am now actually posting late, so it's really 1:10 p.m. EDT. But I will continue to use the time stamp of 10:10 a.m. to remember the time of her death and sometimes 13:40 EDT for the time of Dad's death. The blog entry numbering in the title has changed to reflect total Sense of Doubt posts since I began the blog on 0705.04, which include Hey Mom posts, Daily Bowie posts, and Sense of Doubt posts. Hey Mom posts will still be numbered sequentially. New Hey Mom posts will use the same format as all the other Hey Mom posts; all other posts will feature this format seen here.

A Sense of Doubt blog post #4082 - Do You Drink 92 oz of Water Daily?

A Sense of Doubt blog post #4082 - Do You Drink 92 oz of Water Daily?

This article caught my eye, so I am sharing.

92 ounces a day is  A LOT of water. Essentially, the 32 and 64 ounce bottles below.

It's about three-quarters of a gallon.

That's A LOT of water.

I drink water every day. Usually from a pint glass. That's nearly SIX pint glasses of water a day.

Wow.

I am going to try.


MILESTONE: Also, 600 days since Dad died. I am spending it with friends playing D&D, which is also what I did the day before he died.


Thanks for tuning in.

‘I’m a Dietitian, and I Tried Drinking 92 Ounces of Water Every Day’

DRINKING ENOUGH WATER

https://health.yahoo.com/wellness/nutrition/healthy-eating/articles/m-dietitian-tried-drinking-92-130000751.html

Lauren Manaker, M.S., R.D.N., L.D.

Sat, April 18, 2026 at 6:00 AM PDT

As a registered dietitian, I should be the poster child for perfect hydration. I spend my days advising clients on how to fuel their bodies, yet I have a confession to make: I have always struggled to drink enough water. Sure, I will fill my trendy water bottle, but at the end of the day, it is far from empty.

With the weather warming up and the threat of summer dehydration looming, my editor issued a timely challenge. The assignment was simple but daunting: drink the officially recommended amount of water every day for two solid weeks and document the results. I figured there was no better time than now to practice exactly what I preach.

I went into this experiment expecting a few minor changes, but the results surprised me.

What Happened When I Drank Enough Water for Two Weeks

Trying to drink the recommended 11.5 cups (92 ounces) of total fluids per day (the official guideline for women) felt harder to do than expected, likely because it isn't built into my routine. Also, early on, I found myself making more restroom trips than usual—a gentle, if frequent and a bit annoying—reminder of how much more hydrated I suddenly was.

Soon, other unexpected benefits started to appear. My usual afternoon brain fog was nowhere near as noticeable. Could it be that when my brain felt fuzzy, I was actually dehydrated and not in need of more caffeine? Turns out, that is a strong possibility.

Another unexpected outcome? By the end of the two weeks, my husband remarked that my skin looked more refreshed and vibrant, and I also noticed that my physical workouts felt easier. My muscles did not fatigue quite as quickly during my evening walks, and recovery felt smoother. While remembering to carry my water bottle everywhere was a logistical challenge, the physical and mental shifts I experienced over those fourteen days provided all the motivation I needed to keep going.

Benefits of drinking enough water

Here are some things people may notice if they too actually drink enough water and don't simply carry around their gigantic water bottle for the aesthetics of it all.

Healthy skin

Your skin is an organ, and just like any other part of the body, it requires adequate hydration to function at its best. When you do not drink enough fluids, your skin can become dry, tight, and prone to flaking. While drinking water will not magically erase deep wrinkles, it absolutely helps maintain skin elasticity and turgor. Proper hydration may plumps up your skin cells, giving you that supple, healthy appearance my husband noticed.

Additionally, water helps flush out cellular waste and improves blood flow to the skin's surface. This increased circulation delivers essential nutrients to your skin cells, supporting a natural, healthy glow. When you are adequately hydrated, your skin is simply better equipped to protect itself against environmental stressors.

Smooth digestion

Water acts as the great facilitator for your digestive tract. When you consume dietary fiber, it needs fluid to do its job effectively. Soluble fiber absorbs water, turning into a gel-like substance that slows digestion and helps you absorb nutrients. Insoluble fiber uses water to add bulk to your stool, making it much easier to pass.

Without enough water, your colon pulls fluid from your stool to maintain hydration in the rest of your body. This leads to hard, difficult-to-pass stools and uncomfortable constipation. By keeping your fluid intake high, you help make sure that food moves smoothly and efficiently through your gastrointestinal tract, potentially reducing bloating and digestive discomfort.

Steady, sustained energy levels

Even mild dehydration can drag your energy levels down. When you lack sufficient fluids, your blood volume actually decreases. This drop in volume means your heart has to work much harder to pump oxygen and vital nutrients to your brain, skin, and muscles. That extra cardiovascular strain leaves you feeling physically exhausted and sluggish, even if you slept well the night before.

By maintaining proper hydration, you keep your blood volume stable and your cardiovascular system functioning efficiently. This translates to steady, sustained energy throughout the day. Your muscles receive the oxygen they need to perform, which prevents that heavy, tired feeling that often hits in the middle of the afternoon.

Sharper focus and cognitive clarity

Your brain is composed of roughly 75% water, making it incredibly sensitive to shifts in your hydration status. Research consistently shows that losing just a relatively small amount of the body's water content can impair cognitive performance.

Providing your system with adequate water ensures your brain cells have the fluid they need to maintain proper structure and function. During my two-week challenge, I experienced a noticeable improvement in my mental clarity. Tasks that usually felt tedious required less mental strain, and I felt much more patient and emotionally balanced throughout my workday.

Tips for maximizing hydration without overdoing it

Need some help sneaking in more water in your day? Here are some tips to consider:

1. Start your day with water
   Begin each morning by drinking a glass of water to replenish your body after hours without fluids. This sets a solid foundation for hydration throughout the day.

2. Carry a reusable water bottle
   Having water readily available makes it easier to sip consistently. Choose a bottle with measurements to help track your intake. Try filling your bottle the night before so you have it ready to grab on busy mornings.

3. Opt for hydrating foods
   Incorporate fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and celery into your meals, as they have high water content and contribute to overall hydration.

4. Flavor your water
   Add natural flavors like lemon, mint, or berries to your water to make drinking enjoyable without resorting to sugary alternatives.

5. Pace yourself throughout the day
   Avoid gulping down large amounts of water at once. Instead, focus on sipping water steadily over time to stay hydrated without feeling overfull. If you have a hard time remembering to drink, set an alarm on your phone that will trigger you to sip!

Our expert take

Staying hydrated is an essential part of maintaining overall health. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure your body remains balanced and equipped to perform daily tasks efficiently. Remember, hydration isn't just about drinking water; it's about creating consistent habits that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

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- Bloggery committed by chris tower - 2604.21 - 10:10

- Days ago: MOM = 3946 days ago & DAD = 600 days ago

- New note - On 1807.06, I ceased daily transmission of my Hey Mom feature after three years of daily conversations. I post Hey Mom blog entries on special occasions. I post the days since ("Days Ago") count on my blog each day, and now I have a second count for Days since my Dad died on August 28, 2024. I am now in the same time zone as Google! So, when I post at 10:10 a.m. PDT to coincide with the time of Mom's death, I am now actually posting late, so it's really 1:10 p.m. EDT. But I will continue to use the time stamp of 10:10 a.m. to remember the time of her death and sometimes 13:40 EDT for the time of Dad's death. The blog entry numbering in the title has changed to reflect total Sense of Doubt posts since I began the blog on 0705.04, which include Hey Mom posts, Daily Bowie posts, and Sense of Doubt posts. Hey Mom posts will still be numbered sequentially. New Hey Mom posts will use the same format as all the other Hey Mom posts; all other posts will feature this format seen here.