(THP) The health benefits of vitamins include their ability to prevent and treat various diseases including heart problems, high cholesterol levels, eye disorders, and skin disorders. Most of the vitamins also facilitate the body mechanisms and perform functions which are not performed by any other nutrient. Read how the vitamin below boosts these health benefits.
————————————————————————————————————————–
Vitamin A or Retinol: Eye disorders, acne, skin disorders, infections, healing of wounds
————————————————————————————————————————–
Vitamin B1 or Thiamine:Beriberi, heart diseases, indigestion, body metabolism, blood circulation, brain development
Vitamin B2 or Riboflavin: Cataract, skin disorders, body metabolism, immunity, nervous system, anemia
————————————————————————————————————————–
Vitamin B3 or Niacin: Weakness, digestion, nervous system, skin disorders, migraine, heart disorders, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, diabetes, diarrhea
————————————————————————————————————————–
Vitamin B5 or Pantothenic Acid: Stress, arthritis, infections, skin disorders, greying of hair, high cholesterol
The latest on how supplements can ward off cancer.
Nutrition plays an important role in every stage of the fight against cancer: resisting it, suppressing its development and reducing its spread. Many nutrients are involved, and most are available as supplements: vitamins and minerals, certainly, but also all sorts of plant compounds, friendly bacteria and specialized fats, like omega-3 fatty acids.
If you’re serious about preventing cancer, here are some of the supplements you should be taking.
1. CoQ10: This natural energy-producer and powerful antioxidant is proving to be an important cancer fighter. New research has found that CoQ10 is helpful for colon cancer, breast cancer and melanoma. Animals exposed to cancer-causing agents who are pre-treated with CoQ10 are less likely to develop cancer because CoQ10 help to neutralize toxins.
During cancer treatment, CoQ10 not only preserves immune function, it seems to help cancer drugs work better. And after treatment, CoQ10 helps the immune system attack any remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk for new growth and spread. CoQ10 is used extensively in Japan as an adjuvant for cancer treatment. Its safety record is unparalleled at virtually any dose.
What to Take: We recommend 200 – 600 mg of CoQ10 a day.
2. Probiotics. These friendly bacteria can decrease fecal enzymes associated with formation of cancer-causing compounds in the intestines. They can bind to substances that cause genetic mutations to intestinal cells. They stimulate enzymes that inactivate cancer-causing substances. Probiotics can also help support and stimulate the immune system indirectly and directly throughout the body, which is why they’ve been linked to a reduced risk for cancers other than colon cancer, such as bladder cancer.
Nine A Day Plus now how has an all natural new Citrus Berry Shake powder packed with nutrients to mix into smoothies that contains probiotics. To learn more click here>>
What to Take: We recommend a shelf stable probiotic with 10 billion CFU (colony-forming units) count per dose.
3. Prebiotics: Think of prebiotics as food and housing for probiotics. These are nutritional substances such as inulin, a soluble fiber, that help probiotics grow and colonize inside your intestines. In one study, volunteers were fed a mixture of probiotics and prebiotics, or placebo, for eight weeks. A wide range of indicators of colon cancer risk were measured. Those taking the probiotics with prebiotics had less DNA damage and a lower rate of cell proliferation in biopsies taken from their colons. They also had lower levels of cancer-causing mutagens in their feces.
What to Take: Look for a probiotic supplement that includes prebiotics in addition to beneficial bacteria.
4. Beta Glucan: These chains of sugar molecules have the ability to enhance your immune system and help it to attack cancer cells. Beta glucan is most often derived from the cell walls of baker’s yeast, or from mushrooms such a shiitake and maitake. In Japan, extracts containing various types of beta glucan have been used to successfully assist in treating cancer patients for the last 20 years.
Beta glucan seems to have the unique ability to stick to cancer cells and “tag” them to make it easier for the immune system to recognize the cancer cells as foreign invaders that need to be destroyed. Beta glucan does provide some immune system boost on its own, but it seems to work best when used along with other forms of cancer therapy, such as monoclonal antibodies or interferon.
What to Take: We recommend about 100 mg a day of Beta 1,3/1,6 D-glucan, a form proven effective at stimulating immunity.
5. Resveratrol: This powerful anti-aging nutrient helps to preserve normal cell cycle regulation, which is an important function in dealing with DNA damage. If cell cycle regulation is defective, mutations in the cells’ DNA may result in cancer. Resveratrol has been found to induce cell cycle arrest for a time following DNA damage, in order to allow for DNA repair or activation of processes leading to cell death, should the damage be irreparable.
Resveratrol also helps to regulate enzymes. It “upregulates” certain enzymes that break down toxic substances in the body, so it promotes the excretion of these harmful chemicals.
What to Take: We recommend about 400 mg a day of standardized trans-resveratrol.
6. Vitamin D. New research suggests that having an optimal blood level of vitamin D could cut your cancer risk by as much as 60%! Vitamin D can help activate certain proteins that suppress tumor growth and development, and help prevent as many as 16 different types of cancer, including lung, pancreas, breast, colon, and prostate cancer. Vitamin D increases the self-destruction of mutated cells, reduces the spread and reproduction of cancer cells, and reduces the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones, an important step in the growth and spread of cancerous tumors.
Research shows 40-70% of Americans have sub-optimal blood levels of vitamin D. The best way to figure out how much you need is to get a blood test, before and after you have started taking supplements.
What to Take: Some people need 2,000 – 5,000 IU of vitamin D3 a day, or even more, to stay at a good blood level of to 40 to 60 ng/mL (100 – 150 nmol/L).
Nine A Day Plus vitamins are derived from organic sources and contain Vitamin D that is easily assimilated.
7. Green Tea: An extract of the main active ingredient in green tea, EGCG, slows blood vessel formation in tumors, reducing the rate at which they can grow and spread. Like resveratrol, green tea extract can also regulate cell division and growth, and cause programmed cell death in DNA-damaged cells. Some of the cancers that green tea can face down include prostate, esophageal, bladder, cervical, pancreatic, ovarian, lymphoma and leukemia. Green tea is also active against human papilloma virus (HPV) a sexually transmitted virus associated with cervical and anal cancer and warts.
What to Take: We recommend about 450 mg a day of a standardized green tea extract.
8. Fish Oil. Greater intake of omega-3s has been associated with a reduced risk for cancer. By helping to stabilize the immune system, fish oil may have multiple anti-cancer effects, including regulating cell proliferation, inducing damaged cells to die, preventing blood vessel growth in tumors and helping to prevent the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body.
What to Take: Dosages of 1,200 – 5,000 mg a day are recommended.
9. Curcumin: This component of turmeric has emerged as a leading cancer fighter. Curcumin can disrupt cancer cells in several stages of development. It, too, causes programmed cell death and inhibits new blood vessel growth into tumors. It seems to work best against colon cancer, and in some animal studies, was as good as certain chemotherapy drugs at inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
What to Take: Dosages up to 8,000 mg a day for three months have been used with no toxicity.
10. Garlic Extract. Garlic can increase activity of toxin-neutralizing enzymes and decrease activity of toxin-activating enzymes in the intestines. Garlic also helps prevent cancer-causing DNA changes and promotes the death of damaged intestinal cells.
What to Take: As much as 7,200 mg a day of garlic extract has been taken for up to six months without side effects.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Our risk for almost every kind of cancer goes up as we age. Nutritional supplements that fight cancer at every stage can give you the edge you need to beat it.
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
The stomach which is reduced through surgery absorbs less vitamins and minerals with less food. Supplementation is essential.
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: I had bariatric surgery 3.5 years ago and am doing well. I have been faithful in going to my follow-up appointments and take 200 milligrams of calcium with vitamin D daily. I broke my foot six months ago, and it hasn’t healed. What can I do to build back my bones?
ANSWER: Your situation is not uncommon after bariatric (weight-loss) surgery. Some investigation is necessary to determine why your foot hasn’t healed and to decide how best to treat the underlying cause. Perhaps you’re not getting enough vitamins and minerals to keep your bones strong. Other factors, however, also should be considered.
Bariatric surgery limits the amount of food a person can eat and digest. Three and one-half years ago, the most common bariatric operations were gastric banding (lap banding) and gastric bypass (Roux-en-Y). The kind of procedure you had is a factor in determining the amount of supplemental vitamins and minerals needed following surgery. Both types of surgery limit food intake, but only gastric bypass limits absorption of food, including vitamins and minerals.
During gastric banding, the surgeon places a band around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small gastric pouch to receive food. The band limits how much you can eat, and even a small amount of food leaves you feeling full.
In gastric bypass surgery, the surgeon creates a small pouch at the top of the stomach that’s sealed off from the rest of the stomach. The surgeon then connects the stomach pouch to the small intestine, which allows food to bypass most of the stomach and the first section of the small intestine. As a result, fewer calories are absorbed from the food ingested.
Gastric banding does not change the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals. As a result, impaired bone healing is less likely to occur after that type of surgery. Gastric bypass surgery may affect your body’s ability to get enough calcium and vitamin D from food and from the supplements you’re taking to keep bones healthy.
In either case, first, you need a foot X-ray, which should help show why it isn’t healing. You may have a severe fracture that requires additional treatment to heal properly. Second, you should have a bone mineral density test to determine if you have bone loss or osteoporosis — a disease that makes bones thin and fragile, putting them at risk for fracture. Third, your physician should measure your calcium and vitamin D levels.
Calcium is important because it helps maintain strong bones. The richest sources of calcium are milk and dairy foods fortified with vitamin D. If dairy products cause diarrhea or other digestive problems after gastric bypass, calcium and vitamin D supplements can help ensure adequate intake.
You have to be careful what kind of calcium supplement you take, however. The most common supplement is calcium carbonate. To effectively be absorbed into the body, it must be broken down by stomach acid. After gastric bypass, what you eat doesn’t pass through as much stomach acid as usual during the digestion process. Most of that acid is made in the larger, bypassed part of the stomach. So you may not be absorbing as much calcium as you think. Instead, you may want to consider another type of calcium supplement, for example, calcium citrate, which can be absorbed even with reduced levels of stomach acid.
Vitamin D is important because it helps transport calcium from the gut into the bloodstream and then locks it into the bones, making them hard. Without enough vitamin D, bones won’t get adequate calcium.
Appropriately evaluating and treating a situation such as yours can be complicated. Your broken foot must be treated successfully. In addition, your physician must determine if underlying problems are increasing your risk of bone loss and bone fractures and must also ensure that you are getting needed vitamins and minerals.
To determine the appropriate treatment and follow-up care, I recommend you consult an endocrinologist or a physician-expert in nutrition who’s worked with bariatric surgery patients.
Detailed information about preventing bone loss and treating osteoporosis is available online from the National Osteoporosis Foundation (www.nof.org). — Daniel Hurley, M.D., Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
(Medical Edge from Mayo Clinic is an educational resource and doesn’t replace regular medical care. To submit a question, write to: medicaledge@mayo.edu, or Medical Edge from Mayo Clinic, c/o TMS, 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, N.Y., 14207. For health information, visit www.mayoclinic.com.)
By Martica Heaner, Ph.D., M.A., M.Ed., for MSN Health & Fitness
Q. My family has a history of osteoporosis and I’d like to strengthen my bones to avoid it. Which exercises are best?
A. There are many misconceptions about which activities improve bone density. Although most any exercise can help with the problems that occur with declining bone mass, some types and intensities of exercise are much more effective at building stronger bones. Here’s why:
Bone health and the problems associated with it occur in a cascade. It all starts with how much bone density you have at your peak levels during your early 30s. The amount of bone mass you have is mostly determined during your childhood and teen years. Around 90 to 95 percent of the bone mass that you will have for life is developed by the time you are 20 years old. The remaining 5 to 10 percent is built during your 20s and early 30s, but generally no later than 35 (research is unclear as to exact cutoff date).
It may be too late to do anything about building the bulk of your bone bank now, but you can get an indication of where you stand by assessing your behaviors when you were younger. The 2004 report from the Surgeon General on Bone Health and Osteoporosis points out the factors in your younger years that likely lead to optimum bone mass: an active lifestyle, especially participating in sports that involve jumping like basketball, volleyball or gymnastics; normal weight (not underweight or under-eating); a diet with a good amount of calcium-rich foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables.
If you were an inactive and/or underweight teen, and if you ate more junk than nutritious foods, your bone mass may be lower than ideal. If you were ever underweight, experienced irregular periods, smoked, drank excessive amounts of alcohol and/or have taken steroid medications for an extended period of time, then your risk of having less-than-optimal bone density is higher.
But all women, regardless of their bone density at its peak, start to lose it in their mid-30s due to bone changes. So it’s crucial to optimize bone health with the right lifestyle behaviors in your 20s, 30s and beyond.
During your 20s, and possibly early 30s, the cells that build bone—osteoblasts—are active and working more than the cells that break down bone—osteoclasts. After your early to mid-30s, osteoblasts slow down and osteoclasts rev up. At this point, you may still be able to increase some types of bone tissue, particularly the cortical type in the middle of the bone. Also, the outer surface of the bone may strengthen, even if the internal area is weakening. Plus, you can slow down the rate at which you are losing bone.
All exercises can help, but activities that actively promote bone growth are those that pound or pull on your bones, such as high-impact exercises that produce strong muscle contractions. Walking is low impact and not that beneficial for bone density, although it’s great for all-around health. Jumping, on the other hand, provides a stimulus to the bone cells that improves bone strength. Lifting a weight that is heavy enough to produce a forceful muscle contraction results in the muscle attachment pulling on the bone it’s attached to. That stimulus also activates bone cells. Light weights do not require enough muscle fiber to contract with enough force to produce this effect.
Here are some things you can do to improve bone density:
1. Jump
Even a small amount of jumping appears to be helpful. Some research has found that post-menopausal women who jump rope one to two minutes a day experience bone benefits. Running also provides a helpful impact, as does high-impact aerobics, kickboxing and certain calisthenics such as jumping jacks. But this pounding for too long—such as running a marathon—may have a minimal effect on bone because after a certain period bone cells may become desensitized to additional impact.
Impact sports that include jumping, such as basketball, tennis, volleyball and gymnastics, are beneficial as well. Research on those who perform racket sports have found that people tend to have greater bone density in the arm that swings at the ball than in the non-swinging arm.
If you have joint issues or a physical condition that warrants limiting the amount of impact you do, check with your doctor or physical therapist. There may be alternative moves or modifications you can make to sneak in a little impact.
2. Lift heavy weights
Women often lift weights that are too light to experience the maximal benefit of weight lifting. Work with a personal trainer or trainer in your gym to build up to heavier loads. Some body-weight moves, such as climbing or doing pull-ups on bars lifting your own body weight, may produce enough pull on the bone. Lighter resistance training, like yoga and Pilates, does not appear to produce forceful enough contractions to build bone.
3. Include other bone-health promoting activities
Some activities that do not actually build bone can still improve bone health by preventing falls and their resulting fractures. You can protect against falls by including balance exercises such as standing on one leg during certain yoga or Pilates moves, practicing Tai Chi or by improving stability during dynamic balancing moves (such as when doing lunges). Building muscle mass all over by lifting weights can also help you develop better muscle control and pad you if you do fall.
4. Eat for bone health
Eating a nutrient-rich diet is vital. And that doesn’t mean focusing only on calcium, which is found in all plant foods as well as in dairy. Also eat lots of plant foods that are high in other bone-promoting nutrients such as vitamin K. Get adequate vitamin D, either through sunlight or enriched foods. Although supplementation is advised, it’s always better to meet nutrient needs through food sources. Get your calcium from plant foods like kale, collard and other greens, broccoli and spinach; other sources are oranges, beans, soy products like edamame and tofu, almonds, tortillas, dairy foods and sardines. Egg yolks and salmon contain vitamin D. Milk and soy milks are usually fortified with D. Eating plenty of fruits and veggies will boost your intake of other bone-boosting nutrients including vitamin K, magnesium and trace minerals.
Stemulite Fitness Formula For Women helps create new muscle quicker after an intense strength training workout, which enables muscle growth and stronger bones. To learn more click here>>
Nine A Day Plus Vitamins contains the finest nutrients derived from organic sources like apples, cherries, and soy. People who take 9 A Day Plus have reported feeling mentally clearer, healthier skin, and more vitality. To learn more click here>>
Resource
Bone Health and Osteoporosis: A Report of the Surgeon General
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
THE VILLAGES — Mom was right when she nagged you to eat your vegetables.
But she also should have been spooning blueberries, pistachios and pomegranates onto your plate.
In defense of Mom, she probably didn’t know bok choy packed more punch than Popeye’s spinach. Mom didn’t know about anti-aging foods because, well, no one knew the benefits of eating foods supercharged with antioxidants.
Today, we do.
Researchers have discovered that antioxidants fight free radicals that break down cells and accelerate aging. Some researchers even believe eating foods rich in antioxidants promotes longevity.
Numerous laboratory studies (with microscopic worms, plus mice and rats) support that belief. Now scientists are trying to determine the effects of so-called super foods on humans.
It could be years before conclusive data is available, but researchers have already established that proper diet equates to better health — and longer life.
“The No. 1 thing for people is their diet,” said Luna Beck, M.D., an internal medicine practitioner at Spruce Creek Medical Center. “You have to make changes to your diet. Everything boils down to what you put in your body.”
And antioxidant-rich foods are the most potent fuel you can ingest.
We’re not just talking about foods that are good for you; we’re talking about foods that actually slow the aging process — that will keep you younger, longer.
Eat your berries
According to Tufts University researchers, people need about 5,000 oxygen radical absorbency capacity units a day to counteract free-radical damage.
Fortunately, a number of fruits and vegetables found in most supermarkets have high ORAC values.
According to the Tufts study, pomegranates provide more ORAC units than any food: 2,750. Blueberries (2,400), blackberries (2,036), kale (2,036), strawberries (1,540), spinach (1,260) and raspberries (1,220) are also antioxidant heavyweights.
Those are just a handful of foods researchers link to longevity. Below are others. But keep in mind this is not an inclusive list, and that the foods identified here are cited because of laboratory studies with animals. It remains to be seen how foods laden with antioxidants benefit humans.
Do black raspberries fight cancer? In one study, scientists exposed 2,200 animal genes to cancer-causing chemicals, then gave the animals doses of black raspberry powder. Surprisingly, 460 genes were restored to normal.
Studies indicate that blueberries are potent antioxidants that may inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and help protect the brain from oxidative stress. In February 2006, the journal, Aging Cell, reported that the natural compounds in wild blueberries increased life span and slowed aging in nematodes, a microscopic worm.
Cherries are one of the few known sources of melatonin, a powerful antioxidant that plays a role in delaying the effects of aging. A 2007 study indicated that melatonin neutralizes oxidative and inflammation process caused by aging. Researchers suggest daily melatonin intake in humans in excess of 30 units could potentially help delay illnesses related to aging.
Olive oil contains polyphenols, powerful antioxidants that may help prevent age-related diseases.
Pomegranates have a high concentration of natural ellagic acid and other polyphenols, which neutralize free radicals. Studies in animals showed a reduction of plaque build-up in arteries by 44 percent.
Prunes are No. 1 on the USDA’s list of foods with antioxidant properties. Prunes are loaded with vitamin A, copper, fiber and potassium.
Dark chocolate has anti-aging properties. The reason: Dark chocolate has at least 65 percent more cocoa content and far more antioxidants than milk or white chocolate. To get the most benefit from dark chocolate, eat it in moderate amounts.
Cruciferous vegetables like arugula, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, collard greens, radishes and turnips contain Indole-3-carbinol, a compound believed to modify a key enzyme involved with the spread of cancer. In 2005, a University of California at Berkeley researcher released a paper hailing indole-3-carbinol as “a promising anti-cancer agent.”
Village of Santiago resident Vic Seipke, a 77-year-old former bodybuilder, is a believer in the power of cruciferous veggies. “We’re real big on broccoli. We have it with our dinner all the time. And we eat a lot of salads,” says Seipke, a fit 5-foot 9-inch, 180-pounder who does not take any prescription drugs.
He does, however, consume lots of healthful foods. “We’re nuts about nuts,” said Seipke, who supplements his diet with regular exercise, vitamins and a high-protein drink. “And I don’t eat too much red meat. I usually eat fish, chicken and salad. I eat a lot of vegetables.”
Those staples of Seipke’s diet get high marks from anti-aging researchers.
Research shows that nuts are a great source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and antioxidant vitamins and minerals.
And fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which studies show can help you live a longer, healthier life. But not all fish are created equal. Sablefish (1.93 grams per 3 oz. serving) and albacore tuna (1.5 grams) have significantly more omega-3 than rainbow trout (.98 grams). Not as good is tilapia, which is low in anti-inflammatory omega-3s, but high in pro-inflammatory omega-6.
Super supplements
If you really want to fight radicals, consider products made from exotic berries hailed for their antioxidant values.
One of the most potent is acai, a fruit native to Central and South America. “Acai berries have an ORAC of 10,000,” said Lake Nutrition Center owner Jeff Wittman.
Research supports Wittman’s claim. A Texas A&M University study showed that consuming acai pulp increased antioxidant capacity in blood nearly three-fold.
And acai isn’t the only exotic berry heralded for its antioxidant power. “Noni, mango stem, acai and gogi. I call them the four big liquids,” Wittman said. “Some of the new juices have big-time antioxidant values.”
None are bigger than Youth Juice, a drink made from pure organic berries and sea vegetables that packs an ORAC value of 123,000 per bottle.
“This is the latest buzz,” Beck said. “When it comes to aging, you talk about antioxidants and ORAC values. You know what juice is good by the ORAC levels.”
According to Wittman, there’s an even better way to get an antioxidant super-duper boost. “As a nutritionist, if you came to me and said, ‘Give me some upper-level antioxidant, I would give you CoQ10. I researched it myself. It boosts your antioxidant values by nine times,” Wittman said.
CoQ10 is a naturally occurring compound found in every cell in the body that plays a key role in producing energy in the mitochondria, the part of a cell that produces energy.
As researchers continue to study oxidative stress in humans, we’re sure to hear more about ORAC levels, exotic berries and other anti-aging supplements. Keep in mind it will take years of trials in humans to clearly determine the benefits of antioxidants.
Nine A Day Plus Vitamins are an all natural source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals derived from organic sources. To learn more click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
Iron is an essential mineral for the human body. There are two types: heme iron and non heme iron
The main function of iron is oxygenating the blood. It’s a constituent of blood in hemoglobin and can work to increase energy metabolism
Some sources of iodine include: breads, cookies, pasta and fortified cereals
Iron deficiency can reduce the number and size of red blood cells. To help, add more vitamin C and niacin to your diet
Iron Supplement and Trace Minerals can help ensure your body gets all the minerals you need.
For over a century, Iron has been known as an essential mineral for the human body. The main function of iron is to carry oxygen in the body. It is a constituent of blood in hemoglobin and also forms part of myoglobin which is found in muscle tissue. It also helps the immunity system to function and assists with temperature regulation, cognitive development, work performance and energy metabolism. A large percentage of the iron in the human body is conserved and reused. The remaining 10% is excreted. In order to keep a healthy iron balance within the body, ingested iron must meet the 10% shortfall caused by excretion, otherwise an iron deficiency may result.
Iron is derived in two different forms: heme iron and non heme iron. Heme sources are derived from meats and are easily absorbed into bodily systems. Around 40% of the iron derived from meat is heme iron. Sources include seafood, liver, meat and poultry.
Non heme iron is derived from plant sources as well as some elements in animal tissues. Non heme iron is more difficult for the body to absorb, although the amount of absorption will often depend upon the body’s requirement for iron i.e if stores of iron are low, the body will absorb more. Good non heme sources of iron include: beans, cooked spinach, nuts, eggs, flour and fortified breads.
The foodstuffs that supply the most iron in the United States include breads, fortified cereals, cookies, cakes, pasta, doughnuts, poultry, dried beans and lentils. Foods that contain relatively small quantities of iron (such as dried fruits and legumes), are not thought to be good sources of iron in themselves, but if they are eaten in large amounts, they can add a significant quantity of iron to a person’s diet.
White rice, most breads and pasta tend to be made from refined flours. The refining process can mean that nutrients are lost, and therefore these products are enriched with iron to put this important mineral back into the food. For similar reasons, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin are often added as well. Most cereals which are ready to eat are fortified with iron. A fortified cereal can contain up to 30% of the U.S. recommended daily allowance (RDA) for iron in a portion.
The amount of iron that the body is able to absorb varies according to the source. For example, the iron in poultry, fish and meat is absorbed more easily than the iron from some other foods. In addition, the body can decrease or increase iron absorption according to iron requirement. The body is more efficient at absorbing iron when iron stores are depleted, for example during pregnancy, or periods of growth. Vitamin C can also increase iron absorption. Substances that can have an adverse impact on iron absorption include coffee, tea, or red wine. Also an excessive amount of the following minerals can hamper iron absorption: manganese, zinc or calcium.
Deficiency in iron can lead to anemia, is a condition which is caused by a reduction in the number and size of red blood cells. Anemia may result from blood loss, or an inadequate intake of iron.
If too much iron is absorbed, toxicity can result. This may be caused by hemochromatosis, which is a rare hereditary condition. It can cause excessive iron absorption. Excessive iron in organs and tissues can lead to tissue damage, and specifically damage to the heart and liver.
To learn more about this vital mineral for your body click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
(THP) Forget the Fountain of Youth. There’s an entire Buffet of Youth out there and you can dine on its delectable offerings right in your own home.
Many fruits and vegetables, plus shellfish, whole grains, chicken, lean red meats and dark chocolate (but not milk chocolate) are loaded with the Buffet of Youth’s extraordinary ingredients–antioxidants–specific anti-aging vitamins and minerals that also fight against life-threatening diseases.
In research studies, people with more antioxidants in their diets had stronger immune systems, and a reduced risk of contracting infections, cancer and heart disease or of having a stroke. They even had fewer wrinkles!
Here’s why. As our bodies’ cells produce oxygen they also produce atoms called “free radicals.” Free radicals in the right proportion are good for our bodies because they produce energy and destroy some harmful bacteria. But when we are unhealthy or not eating a balanced diet they grow out of proportion to the number our bodies can handle and they destroy healthy cells. Antioxidants actually destroy the overabundant free radicals before they cause harm.
Vitamins A, C and E and the minerals selenium, zinc and copper are especially potent antioxidants. Vitamin C even forms collagen, and beauty experts suggest applying a vitamin C-based beauty serum to your face (after washing and before moisturizing) to smooth and prevent wrinkles.
So eat a diet that is high in antioxidants to boost your immune system and keep you looking younger.
The Buffet of Youth’s Active Ingredients
* Vegetables: broccoli, spinach, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, garlic, kale collards, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, soy.
* Meats: chicken, eggs, shellfish, lean red meats.
* Beverages: red wine, black and green teas, citrus juices.
* Miscellaneous: whole grains, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate.
All these nutrients can be found in 9 a day plus vitamins and the doctor’s chocolate. Also, Stemulite Fitness Formula when combined with proper nutrition and exercise program is an excellent way to a more youthful, vibrant & a healthier you! To learn more click here>>
(THP) In my last article, I touched upon the pitfalls of what can keep our bodies from changing. People go to the gym, workout, do some cardio 5 days a week, and still don’t see the result in their physique. One of the most challenging obstacles to overcome is how we view food. Unless you compete in figure, fitness or bodybuilding competitions, your diet does not have to be strict all the time. One of the biggest mistakes is trying to follow a diet that is so strict that they lose the vision of having fun. The end result is misery. The rate at which you desire change – should be the guideline of how strict your diet is.
Before I go any further, let’s talk about the word diet. Webster’s Dictionary defines it as:
1 a: food and drink regularly provided or consumed b: habitual nourishment c: the kind and amount of food prescribed for a person or animal for a special reason d: a regimen of eating and drinking sparingly so as to reduce one’s weight 2: something provided or experienced repeatedly <a diet of Broadway shows and nightclubs — Frederick Wyatt>
When you mention the word diet to most people – the first thing that comes to their mind is restricting the amount of food you are eating. My wife is a national level figure competitor, before she started competing, if she wanted to lose weight she would skip breakfast, eat a salad for lunch, and have a small plate of food for dinner, and her body sent out the signal that it was starving. Most all the food she was eating was being stored as fat. Once she decided to start competing and started eating every 2-3 hours, her physique changed all for the better.
Now the big question “What, when and how often do you need to eat.”
As a rule you need to eat every 3 hours. Your main staples need to come from egg whites, oatmeal, fruits, green vegetables, chicken, lean red meat, nuts and at least 64 oz. of water per day. As I mentioned before, my wife is a national level figure competitor, and I compete in bodybuilding. All of our food is measured and/or weighed year round. Off season, we have 1 cheat meal per week, this keeps our food desires in check. When we start our contest diet, cheat meals end. I may get a re-feed (increase in carbs, up to 100 grams per meal for 1 day) but we don’t consider that a cheat meal.
Here is a sample of my current diet:
5:30am 8 egg whites
60 grams oatmeal
3 fish oil tablets
8:00am6 oz chicken breast
1 cup brown rice
1 oz almonds
10:30am6 oz Top sirloin
1 serving fruit
1:00pm6 oz chicken breast
1 cup brown rice
1 Lg salad w/ balsamic vinegar
3:30pm2 scoops protein powder
1 Tbs peanut butter
5:30pm2 scoops protein powder
½ bagel w/ 1 Tbs jelly
7:00pm6oz Top sirloin
3 fish oil tablets
9:00pm1 scoop protein powder
We make small changes throughout the year depending on how my body is responding. As far as supplements, I take BCAA’s between each meal. I also take 9 A Day Plus (one pack in the morning and one at night) Protein Power Mix, and Stemulite (one daytime in the morning and one nighttime before I go to bed) all from True Healthy Products. Does it take more than this to reach my goals? Absolutely, this is just the tip of the iceberg. But it’s a start for someone looking to change the way they look.
Do you need to eat like this? That depends entirely on your personal goals. Perhaps, you only want to look better. Start by making better food choices. Continue to lift weights and do your cardio, and a better physique is just around the corner. We no longer look at food as food; we look at it as fuel. Start making small changes in your diet and see big changes in you physique.
To learn more about sports nutritionals, and the difference they can make in your health click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
ScienceDaily — Here’s another reason why you should take your vitamins. A new research report appearing in the October 2009 print issue of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology suggests that retinoic acid, the oxidized form of vitamin A, could be a beneficial treatment for people suffering from ulcerative colitis and other irritable bowel diseases. Specifically they found that retinoic acid helps suppress out-of-control inflammation, which is a hallmark of active ulcerative colitis.
“Pharmaceutical strategies based on this research may offer a promising alternative to our current approaches of managing immune diseases including, IBD, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and so on,” Aiping Bai, a researcher involved in the work from Nanchang University in Nanchang City, China.
To make this discovery, Bai and colleagues conducted in vitro studies with human tissue and in vivo studies in mice. Both studies ultimately found that treatment with retinoic acid reduced the inflammation in the colon by increasing the expression of FOXP3, a gene involved with immune system responses, as well as decreasing the expression of IL-17, a cytokine believed to cause inflammation. Because many experts believe that IL-17 directly relates to the uncontrolled inflammation seen in ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel disease, the discovery that retinoic acid reduces IL-17′s ability to cause inflammation could accelerate the development of treatments for these chronic diseases.
“Runaway inflammation is serious problem, no matter where it occurs in the body, but in many instances, the root cause is a mystery,” said John Wherry, Ph.D., Deputy Editor of the Journal of Leukocyte Biology.
Nine A Day Plus is an excellent source of vitamin a derived from all organic sources. To learn more click here>>
Journal reference:
Bai et al. All-trans retinoic acid down-regulates inflammatory responses by shifting the Treg/Th17 profile in human ulcerative and murine colitis. Journal of Leukocyte Biology, 2009; 86 (4): 959 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.0109006
Adapted from materials provided by Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology.
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
As the year begins to wind down and the Christmas season draws near, many people are beginning to anticipate all of the treats and the food that will be available for the merry season.
On the other hand, some people have placed themselves on diets now, preparing for the amount of food they expect to eat once the Christmas season rolls around.
It’s a dangerous game of see-saw to play when you decide to lose weight, with plans of putting it back on in a few weeks.
Particularly for those who’ve made the commitment to lose a certain amount of weight by the end of the year.
Those who experience road blocks and apparent dead ends will give up way before the holiday season and go back to “the way things were.”
Let’s hope there are some who will stick it out, no matter how hard it may seem.
For those of you who’ve made that commitment (both to yourself and to others) to lose weight and get in shape this year and even for next year, I have some advice for you in this week’s article.
Let me begin by giving you this rule of thumb for losing weight.
Okay, I know you feel that you’ve heard everything and that talk is cheap, but I believe that words mean something and that is why we use them.
So, here we go; the first thing you should bear in mind when it comes to losing weight is that there is a difference between weight loss and fat loss.
When we talk about losing weight, that would consist of fat, muscle and water.
When we talk about fat loss, that’s some thing different all together.
In order to lose fat you have to learn how to manipulate the body to get rid of fat, while holding on to muscle. And that’s the trick most people don’t know.
When you hear someone say that they’ve lost weight, you may be able to notice such a loss in their clothes or in their features.
But what you do not see is the percentage of fat lost or the percentage of muscle that has been maintained.
Once you can lose fat without losing muscle tissue, you’re close to accomplishing your goal of proper weight and fat loss.
Now, there is a lot of talk these days about the use of fat burners.
These supplemental products are helpful for those people who have a hard time with discipline in their eating habits and who may need some assistance in getting rid of that stubborn fat.
But using fat burners should come with knowledge. From how many to take to when to take them can mean success or failure.
The idea of when you should take fat burners is important. It’s all about timing.
When it comes to fat burners the rule of thumb is that you never take them after 4 p.m. in the afternoon. Try to take fat burners early in your day as possible.
Why?
Well, a lot of those products contain caffeine, which is used as a stimulant and everyone knows what caffeine can do to the body.
This is why so many people who take fat burners find it difficult to sleep when night comes.
They take fat burners after 4 p.m. and that caffeine kicks in, leaving them awake all night. It’s all about timing.
While we’re on the topic about timing, let me throw this in – fruits should be eaten at a certain time of the day. You may say, ‘well, I eat a lot of fruits,’ but you may do so at the wrong time of the day.
You may think it’s no big deal, but because fruits contain sugar, eating them in the evening can cause you to put on weight.
It can also cause gas, if that’s all you eat in the evenings. Fruits should be consumed as early in the day as possible, so that the sugar in the fruits will have a chance to be distributed into the blood stream and used as energy throughout the day.
But you would continue your exercise program and eating the right foods to maintain your weight loss.
Most people blame the diet products for causing them to gain the weight back, but it is the foods you went back to that caused you to gain the weight.
Also remember that in any weight loss program, the right amounts of protein should be consumed. Protein builds muscle and muscle burns fat, so as you cut back on carbs and fat, keep a good eye on your protein intake.
You want to look good while losing weight. I’ve seen some people who just cut back on eating, do no exercise and take in very little protein and although they’ve lost weight, they look sick.
You can lose weight and still look healthy, if you follow these simple rules.
True Healthy Products carries a wide range of products that are designed to help you achieve your fitness goals. Stemulite Fitness Formula works with your body’s stem cells which helps create new muscle cells, while it enabling you to sleep deeply to recover naturally. The new Human Chorionic Gonadotropin – Fat Release System can help rid you of unwanted fat, stubborn fat, and works incredibly for issues of obesity. Nine A Day Plus Vitamins delivers all natural nutrients & minerals from organic sources which feeds your body quality fuel, and gives a healthy glow to skin. Once nourished from the inside, it shows on the outside! To learn more click here>>
Vitamin A plays an important role in healthy eyesight, healthy skin, our immune system and also in infant growth… in fact it’s invaluable in many different ways!
(THP) In its direct form – retinol – vitamin A is found only in animal-based foods: fish oils, liver, egg yolk and even caviar are all excellent sources of retinol. A well-known antioxidant, it also protects us against cardiovascular disease.
But there is another source of vitamin A, or rather of pro-vitamin A – pro-vitamins are substances that our body is able to transform into vitamins – and this is something you are very familiar with: beta-carotene, which is found in carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, red peppers and, in particular in lamb’s lettuce. Melon, mango and apricots also contain beta-carotene, as do blueberries and other dark berries such as blackcurrants – in fact allied pilots consumed large quantities of these during the Second World War as, in addition to the benefits mentioned earlier, vitamin A also helps improve night vision.
If you want to know whether you are getting enough vitamin A, check your eyes, skin and teeth. Red eyes, dry skin and fragile tooth enamel can be signs of deficiency, along with recurrent loss of appetite.
To learn how to supplement your diet with an all natural vitamin a supplement derived from organic sources click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
“Over the past 40 years, I have used a variety of different nutritional products. As with most people, the results were more hype than reality. Allow me, first, to say how much that I appreciate your products. The distinct mark of any product is its efficacy. I can easily distinguish between my past program results, and the results achieved by using the Nitraplex high performance products – these are very effective natural products.
Complimenting these result-based products is the “Fat Release System”. Now here is a wonderful product that performs in a very desirable manner. The results are real and my results are undeniable. Beginning my recent program with the Nitraplex high performance products and then instituting the complimentary “Fat Release System” has provided me with about a 10% loss of body fat and allowed me to maintain a relatively consistent body weight. This 10% number relates to a 5 pound loss in my waist line! Please understand, that I was not trying to lose weight. I was trying to lose the fat and increase the muscle mass. This is obviously what I have accomplished.
I anticipate that within the next 60 days the results will be even more to my liking. It is apparent to me that these products would enhance any personal health program. For anyone desiring to loose a quantity of fat; for someone trying to gain healthy weight; or for someone that desires to be lean — these are the products. In fact, I now recommend these very products to my associates and clients.
All natural vitamins can add energy and vitality to your health
9 A Day Plus All Natural Vitamins reveals why vitamins are good for health
Lutz, FL 9/04/2009 09:45 AM GMT (TransWorldNews)
(THP) Nowadays, it is not surprising to find vitamins on the shelves when you are at the local pharmacy. In reality, people don’t actually know the real long term health benefits when they pop some men’s vitamins. Jayson Hunter of Prograde Nutrition reveals why men’s vitamins are good for health. He believes that men’s vitamins play an crucial role in keeping us healthy.
Hunter explains, “Gone are the days when the food we ate provided us with adequate nutrition. We need to supplement our diets with different off the shelf men’s vitamins and minerals if we want to remain healthy and have the energy to deal with day-to-day life”. He adds, “Vitamins are essential to keep our bodies healthy and also help make us less prone to various common aliments like common cold, etc”.
Here are some reasons why vitamins are good for health:
1) Vitamins and minerals when provided in the right amounts can be very beneficial to the human body. Powerful antioxidants like vitamin C are very important in protecting the body against the harmful effects of pollution and stress.
2) Vitamins like chromium help to build lean muscle tissue and are also known to protect men against the harmful effects of diabetes. Chromium helps prevent diabetes by regulating the insulin levels in our body.
3) Vitamins containing biotin and folic acid are known to help prevent hair loss, a common complaint amongst men in their mid to late 30s.
9 A Day Plus All Natural Vitamins are the best way to give your body the nutrients it needs with whole food vitamins.
(THP) The health benefits of potassium include preventing stroke, blood pressure, anxiety and stress, while helping with muscular strength, metabolism, heart and kidney disorders, water balance, electrolytic functions, nervous system and other general health benefits.
Potassium, the third most abundant mineral in human body, is a wellness insurer. It contains properties for maintaining a high level of human well-being and a cheerful lifestyle. Do not overlook the importance of potassium in your routine diet plan. Apart from acting as an electrolyte, this mineral is required for keeping heart, brain, kidney, muscle tissues and other important organs of the human body in good condition. Potassium chloride is the main variety of this particular mineral. It works in association with sodium to perform a number of critical body tasks.
Deficiency Symptoms: Deficiency of any nutrient in the body is not desirable and potassium is no exception. A diet deficient in potassium may lead to symptoms like fatigue and weakness in muscles. Other indications for deficiency of potassium include inactive reflexes, abnormal heartbeat, heart palpitations, anemia and severe headaches. Some people may also experience high blood pressure, pain in intestines, swelling in glands and diabetes as serious effects of this deficiency.
Important Sources: A balanced diet must contain a fair quantity of potassium, per the recommendations of various health experts. Some of the best dietary sources of potassium include citrus fruits, vegetables and grains. Others potassium rich sources are, salmon, poultry, whole milk, fresh fruit juices, and almonds. Also included in the list are nuts, lima beans, potatoes are other items. However, the most important source of potassium is bananas.
Benefits: Potassium may be looked upon as an essential health nutrient, due to a number of its health benefits:
Stroke: Potassium plays an important role in keeping the workings of the brain in a normal state. It is of great importance in preventing the occurrence of stroke in the human brain. It is a fact that a person suffering from this dreadful disease may be found deficient in potassium as an essential body nutrient.
Low blood sugar: Decrease in potassium level causes a drop in blood sugar level. Decrease in blood sugar level causes sweating, headache, weakness, trembling and nervousness. Intake of potassium chloride and sodium provides immediate relief from this situation.
Muscle disorders: Potassium plays an important role in regular muscle contraction. The right concentration of potassium is required for regular contraction and relaxation of muscles. Most of the potassium ions of the human body are present inside the muscle cells. They maintain muscle function and optimal nerve function.
Cramps: Muscle cramps result from lowered levels of potassium in the blood, a condition called hypokalemia. Eating potassium-rich banana every day prevents muscle cramps.
Brain function: Potassium channels play a key role in maintaining the electrical conductivity of brain and affect the brain function, including higher brain function like memory and learning. Serious ailments like epilepsy are related to the functioning of potassium channels.
Blood Pressure: Potassium is helpful in reversing the role that sodium plays in unbalancing the normal blood pressure. Potassium acts as a vital component by maintaining the normality of blood pressure in the human body. This further abolishes the possibilities of heart diseases and hypertension. Regulation of blood pressure is an important function of this mineral.
Anxiety and Stress: Potassium is of great importance for people suffering from undesirable mental states like anxiety and stress. It is considered a perfect stress buster and ensures efficient mental performance.
Muscular Strength: This is in fact, one of the most appreciable benefits of potassium, as it ensures proper growth of muscle tissues and proper utilization of energy released during metabolism to add significant worth to muscular strength. The muscles, together with cardiac muscle, are prone to paralysis due to deficiency of potassium in diet.
Metabolism: It assists in the metabolic processes of various nutrients like fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Thus, potassium is of great value in extracting energy from the nutrients we ingest.
Heart and Kidney Disorders: Including potassium in your diet ensures good health for your heart and kidneys. This mineral assists kidneys to remove waste by the process of excretion. However, it is strictly advisable to consult your doctor to get recommendations about dosage.
Water Balance: Potassium has another significant role to play in maintaining the desirable water balance in the human body. Some cells require having proper water balance for proper function – potassium aids these cells in regulating this balance.
Electrolyte: Potassium plays the significant role as an electrolyte in the human body. It helps regulate the level of fluids in the human body and thus performs a number of critical body functions.
Nervous System: Potassium helps in boosting nerve reflexes to transmit messages from one body part to another. This in turn helps in muscle contraction to perform various activities every day.
To learn more about natural sources of potassium click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
Vitamin Supplementation is huge worldwide. Most of us take vitamins now or have taken vitamins in the past.
Here are some statistics compiled by the Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) on supplementation:
The US ranks top in dietary supplementation globally.18.9% of Americans had taken at least one dietary supplement in 2004. Over 100 million Americans use vitamin and mineral supplements everyday.
The “global self-medication market” has become a multi-billion dollar industry and the dietary supplement sector is growing the fastest – 16% in 1998 alone. In the US, retail sales of supplements reached $11.3 billion in 2000.
The most common reason for supplement use is “to improve overall health and general well being.” It is a popular belief that vitamins are antioxidants and can therefore protect us from oxidative stress that causes many health conditions.
The most common health conditions that call for supplementation are menopause, cough, cold, flu, sore throat, and allergies or sinus conditions.
The third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), 1988–94 reported that about 40% of Americans, starting at age 2 months, have taken some kind of dietary supplement.
The most common supplements taken are:
multivitamin/multiminerals – 22%
multivitamins plus vitamin C – 15%
vitamin C as a single vitamin – 13%
herbal and botanical supplements – 7%
vitamin E as a single vitamin – 6%
Over the years, more and more reports on the health benefits of vitamin supplements have emerged, ranging from cardiovascular benefits to cancer prevention. This is mainly due to the antioxidant properties of vitamins that can protect us from oxidative stress. As a result several studies have been conducted to confirm these reports. Some of the latest studies summarized below reveal surprising results to say the least.
Disease prevention and mortality
One of the very first studies to comprehensively investigate the health effects of vitamin supplements was conducted by Danish researchers in 2007. They performed a meta-analysis on data pooled from several clinical trials which used supplementation of the antioxidant vitamin A, vitamin E, beta-carotene, vitamin C and selenium used as stand-alone or as combination supplements to treat a wide range of health conditions, from cardiovascular disorders to cancer. Their results were surprising, even troubling. For one, no benefits of these “antioxidant supplements” were found. Second, supplementation with vitamins A and E and beta-carotene (but not vitamin C and selenium) actually increased overall mortality. This study prompted other researchers to take a second look at the benefits of vitamin supplements.
In a more recent review paper, the same researchers performed another meta-analysis of more data from several clinical trials, this time involving over 200,000 people who are healthy as well as those with existing health conditions. The researchers only considered studies which compared the efficacy of antioxidant supplements against placebos in the primary and secondary prevention of different medical conditions. The authors reported that they “found no evidence to support antioxidant supplements for primary or secondary prevention. Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamin E may increase mortality.”
Cancer
Another meta-analysis investigated the anti-cancer properties of antioxidant supplements, particularly against gastrointestinal cancers. They looked at data of trials which studied beta-carotene, vitamins A, C, and E and selenium. The authors concluded that “we could not find convincing evidence that antioxidant supplements prevent gastrointestinal cancers.”
One of the most recent developments in vitamin supplement research is the long-term SELECT (Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial) study of the National Cancer Institute (NCI). The study evaluated the efficacy of selenium and Vitamin E in preventing prostate cancer and enrolled 35,000 male participants in the US, Puerto Rico, and Canada. The participants were randomly assigned to one of 3 groups: group 1 were given vitamin E supplements only, group 2 were given only selenium, group 3 took both supplements in combination, and group 4 were given placebos only. Five years into the study, the NCI decided to stop the trial because of some “concerning” findings, namely:
1. The analysis found no lower risk of prostate cancer in men taking the supplements, either alone or together.
2. Men who were taking only vitamin E actually had a slightly higher risk of developing prostate cancer.
3. Men taking only selenium seemed to have a slightly higher risk of developing diabetes.
Another study evaluated the efficacy of combined folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 in reducing cancer risk among women. Their result show that combined folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 treatment had no significant effect on overall risk of total invasive cancer or breast cancer among women during the folic acid fortification era.
A study published in December 2008 evaluated whether vitamins C and E and beta carotene supplementation have an effect on overall cancer risk. The data was taken from the Women’s Antioxidant Cardiovascular Study and involved 8,171 women who were cancer-free at the start of the study about 9.4 years ago. The findings of the study showed that “supplementation with vitamin C, vitamin E, or beta carotene offers no overall benefits in the primary prevention of total cancer incidence or cancer mortality.”
Cardiovascular disorders
The Women’s Health Initiative Calcium/Vitamin D Trial evaluated the effects of vitamin D and calcium supplements on blood pressure and risk for hypertension risk of 36,252 healthy postmenopausal women. The women were assigned in 2 groups: one group received a daily supplement of 1000 mg of calcium plus 400 IU of vitamin D3 daily. The other group received placebo only. The researchers reported that “in postmenopausal women, calcium plus vitamin D3 supplementation did not reduce either blood pressure or the risk of developing hypertension over 7 years of follow-up.”
The Physicians’ Health Study II evaluated whether vitamin E or vitamin C have cardioprotective properties that can reduce risk for CVD in men. A total of 14,641 American doctors were enrolled in the study, aged 50 years and older, and were followed up for 8 years. The study results showed that “neither vitamin E nor vitamin C supplementation reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events. These data provide no support for the use of these supplements for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in middle-aged and older men.”
This study evaluated whether antioxidant (vitamins E, C and/or beta-carotene) supplements can prevent atherosclerosis. The researchers performed a meta-analysis of 22 trials which involved 134,590 participants. The researcher conclude that “…the majority of studies included in this review does not support a possible role of antioxidant supplementation in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease … no definite conclusion can be drawn to justify the use of antioxidant vitamin supplements for the prevention of atherosclerotic events.”
Folic acid is routinely prescribed for pregnant women to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. It has also been thought that folic acid, which reduced the levels of homocysteine in the blood, can prevent cardiovascular disease. Homocysteine is an amino acid used as a biomarker for cardiovascular disorder. This trial investigated whether a vitamin combination pill with folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 (vs. a placebo) can reduce cardiovascular risk. It enrolled more than 5,400 American women with a history of cardiovascular disease or with moderate to high risk profile for cardiovascular disease. After 7.3 years of treatment and follow-up, a combination pill of folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 did not reduce a combined end point of total cardiovascular events among high-risk women, despite significant homocysteine lowering.
While most of the evidence from studies summarized here does not seem to support the health benefits of vitamin supplements, there are some studies which indicate that vitamin D supplementation is worthwhile, even essential.
Vitamin D is unique because we cannot get our vitamin D requirements from food alone. Instead, vitamin D is synthesized by the body upon exposure of the skin to the sun, thus earning it the title “sun vitamin.” However, since the sun is said to cause skin cancer, people tend to avoid exposure leading to widespread vitamin D deficiency.
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a large number of health problems including osteoporosis, rickets, cancer and autoimmune disorders.
American health experts are convinced of the necessity of vitamin D supplements and thus, routinely prescribe vitamin D supplements even for newborn babies. Milk and other dairy products in the US are fortified with vitamin D but not in many parts of the world. Last year, the American Academy of Pediatrics updated its guidelines for vitamin D supplementation to recommend the doubling of the dose for babies and children from 200 IU to 400 IU per day.
According to a review paper, “vitamin D is not only important for calcium metabolism and maintenance of bone health throughout life, but also plays an important role in reducing risk of many chronic diseases including type I diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, deadly cancers, heart disease and infectious diseases.”
To learn about quality organic sources of vitamins – click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
(THP) For well over 25 years, the egg has been the icon for the fat, cholesterol and caloric excesses in the Standard American Diet (SAD). Tied directly to this is the widely circulated message of limiting egg consumption to lower the risk of heart disease. Well, the facts easily debunk this message.
However, the very well know “dietary cholesterol equals blood cholesterol” still surfaces on various forms of media on a regular basis. On it coat-tails are the mixed messages about avoiding fats and using fat-free food products. But, what are the facts? Does the scientific evidence justify such restrictions?
To begin this Part II, lets do a little scientific review so that we can achieve a real clear picture of this evil called cholesterol, then we can address the issue of fats.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a lipidic or a type of fatty substance. Also known as a lipid which is a type of fat in the blood. This white crystalline substance is a waxy sterol [steroid] found in animal tissues and various foods. It is normally synthesized by the liver and is important as a constituent of all cell membranes and a precursor to steroid hormones.
Cholesterol is an essential component of mammalian cell membranes where it is required to establish proper membrane permeability and fluidity. This fatty substance is found in the cell membranes and transported in the blood of all animals.
Why do we need cholesterol? Cholesterol is essential for the structure and function of a host of biological activities within our body. A brief review of the facts will help us to better understand why this lipid is called ‘essential.’
Many people are surprised to learn that this essential component is the precursor molecule for a number of other essential compounds and biochemical functions in the human body. Within the cell membrane, cholesterol functions in intracellular transport, cell signaling and nerve conduction. The myelin sheath is rich in cholesterol, thus providing insulation for more efficient conduction of impulses.
Cholesterol is used in tissue repair; for strengthening cell membranes; it helps regulate membrane fluidity over the range of physiological temperatures; in the liver, cholesterol is converted to bile, which is then stored in the gallbladder. Bile contains bile [acid] salts, which solubilize fats in the digestive tract and aid in the intestinal absorption of fat molecules as well as the fat soluble vitamins of A, D, E and K.
Cholesterol is an important precursor molecule for the synthesis of Vitamin D and our most necessary steroid hormones, including the adrenal gland hormones [cortisol and aldosterone] as well as the well known sex hormones [progesterone, estrogens, and testosterone] and their derivatives. Recently published research indicates that cholesterol may even act as an antioxidant.
There is little danger of cholesterol deficiency because it can be manufactured in the liver from fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Yes, your body actually makes up to 80% of your the cholesterol found in your body!
How does cholesterol work in the body?
This question more accurately addresses the regulation of cholesterol synthesis. Wherein biosynthesis of cholesterol is directly related to the cholesterol levels present in the body. To date these complex and extensive homeostatic [feedback] mechanisms involved are only partly understood.
Regardless, one way to increase our cholesterol is from eating certain types of fatty foods high in cholesterol such as red meat, and organs such as liver and brain. A higher intake from these foods leads to a net decrease in endogenous production, while a lower intake from food has the opposite effect. The main regulatory mechanism is the sensing of the existing cholesterol levels and the interaction of a series of proteins, enzymes, and associated receptors which regulate our cholesterol level. Once synthesized, the cholesterol can then be utilized throughout our body as identified above.
Cholesterol is oxidized by the liver into a variety of bile acids. A mixture of conjugated and non-conjugated bile acids along with cholesterol itself is excreted from the liver into the bile. Approximately 95% of the bile acids are reabsorbed from the intestines and the remainder lost through bowel elimination.
So there is a circulation of these biliary acids from the liver, where they are produced and secreted in the bile, to the small intestine, where it aids in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats and other substances, then back to the liver. The excretion and reabsorption of bile acids forms what is referred to as enterophepatic circulation.
9 A Day Plus Vitamins effect on the body’s functioning systems is a preferable way to eliminate toxins, while feeding your body what it needs.
The “Good” side of cholesterol. Thus far, it may be very easy to understand why cholesterol is GOOD! After all, it is ‘essential’ to our body in so very many ways. It is made in our body and is used for a host of biological needs. However, there is a term we often hear – “BAD Cholesterol.” Let’s now review some information to better understand this associated if not misleading terminology.
The “Bad” side of cholesterol.
Probably one of the greatest forms of biased research is the all too familiar efforts to associate eggs with increasing a persons cholesterol. This is minimized by the bad, albeit, confusing press about low density lipoproteins, high density liprproteins and triglycerides.
Obtaining a more accurate perspective on just what these terms mean and how they actually work within our body is our next step.
Some of the terminology. When people talk about cholesterol as a medical problem, they are usually referring to high cholesterol. To determine if you have a cholesterol concern, you must have your blood tested. Once accomplished, you can then use the following information to understand the findings.
Most of the information about cholesterol can be somewhat misleading. We will begin with the four basic components that are considered to be cholesterol. These are the four components that appear as the results on a fundamental cholesterol exam. We will break it down for clarity.
First recognize that cholesterol is just cholesterol! But here is how the program works. There are the three main categories of fats (lipids) and total cholesterol that are all part of this ‘cholesterol’ paradox associated with your cholesterol blood test. Here they are;
High-density lipoproteins or HDL: This component actually carries cholesterol from the blood vessels to the liver where the body can eliminate it. Not surprising, the HDL is often called the “Good Cholesterol.”
Low-density lipoproteins or LDL: This is what is given credit for building up in the arteries along with other substances. The LDL’s are credited with forming plaque and restricting the blood flow to your heart, brain, and other organs. Based on this association and process, LDL is called the “Bad Cholesterol.’
Triglycerides or ‘trigs’ – more appropriately triacylglycerol or TAG: This is a glyceride or a form of lipid that is the main constituent of vegetable oil and animal fats and is called the blood fat lipid that is also associated with the increased risk for heart disease. So it comes from the foods we eat and is produced in the liver. And following the LDL’s, it is also called “the other bad lipid.”
Total Cholesterol: This is where the math comes in. To calculate the total level of cholesterol you must add the LDL and the HDL levels, plus the triglyceride level which is divided by 5. So the formula is: LDL + HDL + (TAG/5)
Now that you have the fundamentals and some basic terminology to better evaluate your own blood/cholesterol test.
To learn more about natural whole food 9 A Day Vitmains Supplements, and how they can improve your health click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
Not all vitamins were created equal – or natural. To be more specific, over 90% of the vitamins purchased by consumers, whether in a supermarket, pharmacy or health food store, are substances formulated in a laboratory. These synthetic, fractionated vitamins simply cannot be easily absorbed by the body which means that when you take them you are literally flushing money down the toilet.
How do you know if you are ingesting a synthetic vitamin or one made from all natural fruits and vegetables? It’s easy really, just read the label. If your vitamin’s ingredients sound like something from a chemistry lab then that’s exactly what they are; chemically created synthetic vitamins.
For example, here is a list of the major ingredients of a leading vitamin brand found in just about every grocery store and pharmacy in America and taken by millions of unsuspecting consumers every day: magnesium oxide; dicalcium phosphate; ascorbic acid; di-alpha tocopheryl acetate; ferrous fumarate; croscarmellose sodium; potassium chloride; calcium panthenate; pyridoxine hydrochloride; hypromelose; polyethelene glycol; manganese sulfate; pytonadione and cyanocobalamin (a synthetic form of vitamin B-12). Do you have any idea what any of those things are? You’d have to be a chemist to know what you are putting in your system with a list like that.
Now look at the list of ingredients on a box of 9 a Day Plus where the vitamins come from these natural sources: carrots; acerola cherry; soy; sunflower; corn; spinach; blueberry; raspberry; apple; cranberry; grape; aloe vera; beets; etc. It is easy to see that there is a difference so now you need to understand why that difference really matters to your health.
The truth is that even though they are often called natural, most non-food vitamins are isolated chemical substances which are crystalline in structure. And most vitamins in these supplements are made or processed with petroleum derivatives or hydrogenated sugars. Vitamins naturally found in food are not crystalline and never isolated. Vitamins found in any real food are chemically and structurally different from those commonly found in “natural vitamin” formulas. Since they are different, you should consider non-food vitamins as vitamin “analogues” or imitations and not actually vitamins.
The body treats these isolated – or fractionated – vitamins as they would any foreign or chemical substance: it rejects them. This is why the bulk of the content simply passes through the body and is never assimilated into your system. This is why over-consumption of these kinds of vitamins can actually be detrimental to your health as they can build up in the liver or kidneys and do more harm than good.
You may be thinking that your vitamins are different because you buy them at a health food store. You are probably wrong. Here is a list of ingredients from a bottle of vitamin C from a major brand found in a local health food store: ascorbic acid; cellulose gel; corn starch; hydropxypropyl cellulose; hydroxypropyl methylcellulose; magnesium state; silicon dioxide; stearic acid;polyethylene glycol. The front of the label says all natural and it’s on a shelf in a reputable health food store, but the ingredients label doesn’t lie – there’s nothing natural about this product at all.
You may have noticed that a common ingredient is ascorbic acid. Some of you may be thinking that ascorbic acid is in fact vitamin C but here is another myth about the vitamins we waste money on. Though the FDA allows Ascorbic Acid to be labeled as vitamin C, it really is NOT vitamin C. It is only part of the vitamin C complex and what is known as a fractionated vitamin. This is true for many of the vitamins you may be taking now. Instead of getting the entire benefit of the vitamin you are buying you are probably getting only part of the vitamin, which is like taking no vitamin at all. The body cannot use a vitamin unless it is in its entirety. It doesn’t use the isolated parts properly so you might as well not bother taking it at all.
9 a Day Plus uses complete, natural vitamins from fruits and vegetables that your body can easily absorb and put to use.
Even if you don’t have the iPhone app “Outbreaks Near Me,” you’re probably concerned about the H1N1 flu pandemic sweeping the planet. A variant of the influenza-A virus, swine flu has already infected over 209,000 people worldwide.
Columbia’s President has come down with H1N1. And more than 2,000 people have died from this new flu strain.
Public health officials advise flu shots this fall. But H1N1 vaccines won’t be ready until November or December, if then.
People with egg allergies are unable to take flu shots, since these vaccines are generated in eggs. Plus we really don’t know what else may be in shots these days.
If you’re thinking of stockpiling antiviral meds (Relenza and Tamiflu), think again. The use of antiviral drugs for the treatment of people with H1N1 symptoms only shaves off a half day of symptoms.
Sesame Street’s Elmo will star in TV spots teaching kids to wash their hands and cover their sneezes. But we all need more protection than that!
Elmo’s right about frequent hand washing. Also cleanse your nasal passages, where so many viruses enter the body. Fill a neti pot, available at health-food stores, with salted water to clean out your nose (about 1 teaspoon of plain non-iodized salt to 1 cup of warm water).
A new study in Postgraduate Medicine finds that friendly bacteria (specifically the probiotic Bacillus coagulans) significantly boost the production of immune cells in adults exposed to influenza A. Other research shows that probiotics successfully fight flu in young children.
In a double-blind placebo-controlled study of 3- to 5-year-olds, a combination probiotic supplement reduced the incidence of fever by 72 percent and the incidence of coughing by 62 percent. The use of antibiotics was cut by a whopping 84 percent!
“I think it is a wise move to include the consumption of probiotics and/ or whole food vitamins,” says Gary Huffnagle, PhD, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Michigan, “along with a good diet, frequent hand washing, and other recommendations by the CDC in the battle against flu.”
Nine A Day Plus Vitamins are all natural whole food vitamins derived from natural sources, like cherry, apples, and soy. To learn more about how to keep your immune system strong & healthy click here>>
What’s more, a review of vitamin D research at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta points out the benefits of these vitamin in fighting flu and respiratory viruses. Studies running from 1948 through 2009 show the connection between vitamin D deficiency and infectious diseases.
Xylitol sprays (available at most health food stores) are also useful for this purpose. A number of studies show that xylitol, a sugar alcohol, protects against respiratory pathogens—sometimes better than saline-based rinses and sprays—while improving oral health!
Bottom line: Don’t wait to start bolstering your immunity. Cold and flu season is right around the corner.
Support your immune system—starting today—with a healthy, whole food diet. Get plenty of sleep (we’re talking 8 hours or more) plus regular exercise. Also take a well-balanced multivitamin-mineral supplement. Antioxidant vitamins A and C and the mineral zinc bolster immunity.
Most importantly, be sure to get plenty of vitamin D, the “sunshine” vitamin. Studies show that between 70 and 98 percent of Americans are currently deficient in vitamin D depending on where they live. According to the National Institutes of Health, only those living below 34 degrees north latitude (a line connecting Los Angeles and Columbia, South Carolina) can get enough sunlight for adequate vitamin D production year-round.
Add that to the number of daylight hours Americans spend indoors in front of the computer or television, and the widespread deficiency rates make sense.
With the summer sun fading fast, and fall rapidly approaching, those of us north of the line of “D-markation” can no longer rely on rays alone. Studies have attributed the rise in flu outbreaks during the fall and winter months to the lack of sun exposure during this time of year.
To optimize your D-fense against the flu, the Vitamin D Council recommends a daily dose of 5,000 IUs for adults, and 1,000 IUs per 25 pounds of body weight for children. Most worrisome of all is the news from the CDC that 80 percent of U.S. children killed by swine flu are school age (ages 5-17), a departure from the baby and toddler deaths typically associated with the flus of recent years. As kids head back to school this month, parents must constantly remind them of the basics: frequent hand and nose washing as well as a low sugar diet and a good night’s rest.
While I’m delighted that research is now beginning to confirm probiotics’ usefulness against respiratory viruses like influenza A, I’ve been taking friendly flora for years. Looking for a safe, effective combination product? Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics 12 Plus is a real heavy hitter—the strongest probiotic I know. This nondairy, vegetarian product contains live probiotics, including the critical strain TH 10, which has been proven effective even against virulent “super bugs.”
People report feeling healthier while taking whole foods vitamins, such as 9 a day plus vitamins.
To learn more about how to keep your immune system strong & healthy click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
9 a day plus vitamins are brought exclusively to you from True Healthy Products. Take control of your health today by proactively enhancing your body with quality nutritionals. To learn more about whole food vitamins, Stemulite Fitness Formula, Fission Fruit bars, or Protein Power Mix, click here>>
Q: President Obama has repeatedly mentioned reducing “unwarranted” subsidies to private insurance companies under Medicare. Does this mean that the Medicare Advantage plans will disappear or become less common?
PAUL EKLOF, Petaluma
A: While reductions in Medicare Advantage payments are being discussed as part of the health care reform debate, it is too early to know how any such changes, if passed, would affect Medicare beneficiaries. We won’t know the impact of any payment reductions to Medicare plans until Congress agrees on the magnitude, mechanisms and timeline for implementation.
Some proposals currently under consideration could result in increased premiums and/or cost sharing for Medicare beneficiaries. We hope that any changes will be moderate and phased in over time. This balanced approach would help mitigate the adverse financial impact on seniors.
Related proposals in Congress would limit the reduction in payments to plans that demonstrate a higher quality of care. We encourage Congress to move in that direction. Paying high-performing Medicare Advantage plans a quality bonus could reduce the adverse financial impact on seniors in these plans and also encourage all plans to focus even more on improving the quality of care delivered to Medicare beneficiaries, which will benefit seniors enrolled in those plans and the country as a whole.
- Tony Barrueta, vice president, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan & Hospitals
This article appeared on page F – 4 of the San Francisco Chronicle
As the nation wrestles with the complex issue of health care reform, The Chronicle is asking readers to submit their questions so we all can understand what reform means. If you have a question, please e-mail forum@sfchronicle.com.
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
(THP) Dr. Thomas Levy sent me a report on a case where vitamin C was used to completely cure a case of swine flu. He says that adequately dosed vitamin C, to his knowledge, has never failed to cure an acute viral syndrome. According to information he received from a colleague in New Zealand, John Appleton, the following occurred:Waikato farmer went to Fiji for holiday, and started developing flu-like symptoms, but decided to tough it out. He arrived back in New Zealand very sick with swine flu. Tauranga Hospital was not able to treat him. Unaware of the fact that he had the Swine-Flu, they sent him to Auckland Hospital, but he continued to deteriorate, despite the use of Tamiflu and antibiotics.
His brother-in-law (who knows a bit about vitamin C) contacted Dr. Thomas Levy in the U.S., who referred him to Dr. Appleton.
Dr. Appleton provided a lot of info on vitamin C and referred the family to CAM (Centre for Advanced Medicine), The family pushed to get him some IV vitamin C, but the hospital refused. CAM doctors encouraged the hospital to try vitamin C.
The patient deteriorated further and was on life support. The family was told nothing more could be done and life support would be switched off. His lungs were not functioning. The family said NO — not until everything has been tried.
The hospital was pushed hard to give him IVC and reluctantly agreed, saying if there was no improvement by Friday that’s it.
The patient showed signs of improvement by Wednesday, to the hospital’s surprise. Concerns were expressed about his kidneys, and a new specialist wanted to stop the vitamin C use — the family was told his liver was failing, “caused by vitamin C”. Dr. Appleton gave them lots of data showing the liver is more likely to be affected by antibiotics.
Patient recovery continued to the point where he could be transferred to Waikato (closer to home); he was on a ventilator and NG tube feeding. The doctors there were more receptive to vitamin C, but wouldn’t agree to continue the treatment. The family got a high profile lawyer involved who wrote a letter about patient rights and called the hospital to recommend that they sort it out with the family.
The hospital continued with IVC, albeit at a much lower dose. A CAM doctor traveled to Waikato to endorse the treatment and recommend IVC at higher doses.
The patient continued to recover — he was now conscious. The hospital staff was stunned — they had never seen anything like this. The patient was told by his brother-in-law that IVC had saved him. The patient’s wife had not lost her husband and the children have their father. The patient was by this time fully ‘with it’ and talking normally with family and taking Lypospheric vitamin C (6 grams daily).
For those doctors wondering about doses, Dr. Levy communicated directly with the brother-in-law to find out. On the Tuesday following the initial “deadline” 25 grams were given intravenously. On Wednesday, 25 gram infusions were again repeated twice.
Thursday the patient received 75 grams, and starting on Friday he received 100 grams intravenously and stayed at this dose daily for another 4 to 6 days. Then the new consultant had the vitamin C discontinued completely. One week later, the IVC was restarted at only one gram twice daily.
Dr. Levy encourages everyone to resend this case history to any and all who you think could benefit, including your friends and contacts in the government. Obviously, a reasonable daily dose of vitamin C could be expected to do an even better job at preventing H1N1 while having no downside relative to the mass vaccinations getting ready to take place.
Preventative measures with quality vitamin supplements could have abated the severity of this case, however, vitamin C was the saving force for this man. To learn more about quality vitamin supplements, and how they can help you overcome the ravages of flu season click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
(THP) Everyone by now, has surely heard of the H1N1 flu and all the dangers associated with it. We have all seen the children in other countries wearing face masks to prevent contracting the disease. There has even been talk of a pandemic. With the start of school, many children are already complaining of colds or stomach viruses. Homeschool children are no exception. While opponents of homeschooling often argue that homeschoolers don’t get enough socialization; co-ops, church groups, dance lessons, music lessons, etc. are already underway with enough socializing to spread the flu.
How Does It Spread? This year’s H1N1 flu is said to be transmitted both in the air & on surfaces. It is transmitted on a surface such as a doorknob when that surface comes into contact with the germs that cause the flu virus. Then, continues to spread whenever someone touches that surface and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth. But, is also airborne through coughing or sneezing into the air and those droplets coming into contact with our eyes, nose or mouth. Airborne illnesses are perhaps a bit trickier to prevent than surface-borne ones. And, while no one can guarantee 100% that your child will not get sick – not even the drug companies with their touted vaccine claiming 100% protection to all – there are common-sense steps you can take to try to stay healthy every day of the year, not just during flu season. Though, most of the preventative steps to take in avoiding sickness seem very obvious, it is amazing how many adults and children don’t pay attention to simple steps such as washing hands.
Build Up That Immune System – Make sure your child’s immune system is built-up and healthy. There is no more important time than the flu season to make sure your child has proper nutrition and vitamin supplements, like 9 a day plus to help boost their immune systems. If their immune systems are working well, they may avoid H1N1 and many other diseases all together. Try to offer healthy meals and snacks, and check with your doctor or nutrition store, such as O’Fallon Nutrition, for advice on what vitamins or supplements are available to boost their immune system. You might want to cut short those visits to fast food restaurants as well, since germs can be spread through food preparers and restaurant environments.
Cough Into Your Elbow – While use of a tissue is sometimes necessary, it will spread disease if not properly disposed of and hands washed after use. When you are in public, if your child is already sick with a cough, make sure they cough properly. That is, cough into the bend of your elbow. This avoids using hands to catch the germs and then picking up a pencil and sharing it with another child or turning around to play on the monkey bars, etc. If the cough goes into the elbow bend of the arm, it is less likely to be spread further from surface to surface, and it blocks most of the germs from flying into the air.
Wash Your Hands – We’ve all heard it said to wash your hands! But, it’s true. Many diseases would be completely avoided if we would simply wash our hands. In children, the important thing is to teach proper handwashing. Simply rinsing their hands under running water for a splash will not do the trick. And, though hand sanitizers are better than nothing when there is no sink nearby, there’s no substitute for taking the time to wash with soap & water. The fun way to teach children to wash their hands is to turn on the water to a comfortable temperature, place child’s hands under the running water and begin to sing. Sing Happy Birthday, or change the words to the same tune: “We are wash-ing our hands – We are wash-ing our hands – We are wash-ing our hands now! So, we won’t get the flu!” – You choose your own words, but take that amount of time to soap up your child’s hands and rinse them well. Then, dry them off on a clean towel. If you are in a public restroom, take a paper towel (if it’s provided instead of those blow dryers) and dry your hands with it. Then, grab another paper towel to open the door with when you leave. This way, your child’s hands will not touch a germy door handle directly after washing off the germs. Once you are outside of the restroom, find a trashcan & discard the paper towel. While this might not be 100% environmentally friendly, you and your child will avoid countless numbers of germs.
Avoid Contact With Germ-Infested Surfaces – Telling a parent of an active, healthy child to simply have that child not touch anything in public is like asking them to hold onto jello. Children will touch surfaces wherever they go. So, do your best to make sure the things they touch are as clean as you can make them. One easy way to do this is to carry disinfectant wipes with you. When you go to the grocery store, wipe down the inside of the “car carts” that your child will want to ride in. Or, if they are older and no longer fit inside those fun carts, wipe down the handle of the cart you are pushing. If you are at a restaurant, wipe down the table before you sit down. Also, don’t forget to wipe the chair that the child is sitting on and directly under their side of the table as well, since most children will wiggle and explore. Don’t be afraid of the raised eyebrows when others see you wiping down the tables, etc. Chances are most looks will be those of respect wishing they had thought to be preventative as well.
Stay Away – While you don’t want to say “no” to every birthday party invitation, sports games, dance lessons, etc., be conscious that the H1N1 is out there along with many other viruses and diseases–and be selective in where you choose to expose your child. When we think of germ-infested places, we often think of hospitals and doctors’ waiting rooms, which no doubt do have all kinds of germs flying around. But one of the most nasty, germ-infested environments is a playground. While you might not want to avoid the playground altogether, make sure your child’s hands are washed when they leave these types of places.
Mostly, use common sense. Don’t be afraid to take preventative measures to protect your children. If you do, you’ll probably end up being happy you’re not cleaning up after a sick child or spending your paycheck on tissues to wipe noses all fall/winter/spring.
To learn more about quality whole food vitmain supplements, how they boost immunity against flu bugs click here>>
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
Healthy Mother's Who Breast Feed Need Natural Nutrients
(THP) SO you’ve decide to give your baby the best gift of life – your breastmilk.
Breastmilk is the best food for baby because it provides all the nutrients that are crucial for an infant’s growth and development, and also protects babies against infections and illnesses.
But despite the good advice from your doctor, family, and friends about breastfeeding, you may have some problems or concerns that you are too shy to ask.
As they say, there is no such thing as a stupid question. Here are some common questions and concerns that most nursing mothers encounter, even if they are “veteran” mothers.
Is it normal for my baby to spit up after feeds?
It is common for babies to sometimes spit up their milk after feedings. This is usually due to the baby’s immature digestive tract, or it occurs if the baby has eaten too much.
Your baby may spit up when you are burping him or her – this is so common that parents have nicknamed it the “wet burp”.
You can lessen the spitting by burping your baby every three to five minutes during feeding. Giving smaller, more frequent feeds rather than large volume feeds may also help.
Positions are important. Make sure your baby’s head is at a level above his feet while feeding, and keep him or her upright after feeding – the best position is to hold your baby and burp him or her.
As long as your baby is growing well and gaining weight, and doesn’t seem to be uncomfortable with the spitting up, you do not have to worry. However, if your baby is vomiting forcefully or spitting up too much milk every time, you should ask your pediatrician for advice. Try to keep a record of exactly how often and how much your baby is spitting up so that it will help your doctor to properly diagnose the problem.
Generally, spitting up is just a phase and many babies will outgrow this by the time they’re able to sit upright.
Can I still breastfeed if I’m sick?
There are rare exceptions when you cannot breastfeed your baby, such as when you have certain medical conditions.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control, breastfeeding is not advisable if you are HIV-positive, taking antiretroviral medications, have untreated, active tuberculosis, are infected with human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I or type II, using illicit drugs, taking prescribed cancer chemotherapy agents, or undergoing radiation therapies.
In some conditions, such as with nuclear medicine therapies, you only have to stop breastfeeding temporarily. In this case, you can pump and discard the breast milk until you’re able to start nursing again so that you can maintain your milk production.
Your doctor is the best person to make a case-by-case assessment when you are diagnosed with any medical condition or prescribed any medications, and advise you whether it is safe to continue breastfeeding.
Why does my baby bite me when feeding?
Some mothers may be embarrassed to ask about this because they think it is weird. But it is more common than you think.
Babies often use their gums – or when they begin teething, their teeth – to play with their mothers’ nipples. This should not occur when your baby is nursing, because once your baby is positioned and latched on correctly, your nipple should be far back in your baby’s mouth. However, when your baby is starting to pull away from your breast, he or she might bite you at that point. This can be prevented by slipping your finger into the corner of your baby’s mouth to break the suction.
Biting is also a sign that your baby is distracted or bored. If you think that this is the reason, try initiating a new activity to engage your baby, and give him an extra hug or kiss if he nurses without biting.
If your baby is teething, you can offer him a teething toy or ring – which is a much better alternative to your nipple!
Does my breastfed baby need extra vitamins?
Breastmilk is the complete food for your baby, especially during the first six months of age. It contains all the vitamins and minerals that your baby needs to grow and develop.
But do remember that the amount and types of vitamins in breast milk is directly related to your vitamin intake. It is essential that your diet contains adequate levels of vitamins, particularly fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, and water-soluble vitamins such as vitamin C, riboflavin, niacin, and panthothenic acid.
Taking an all natural whole food supplementation such as 9 A Day Plus Vitamins, is an excellent way to nourish your body with whole food supplements while breast feeding.
Why doesn’t my baby want to nurse?
Does it seem like your baby has suddenly gone “on strike”? It can be worrying, especially if your baby usually breastfeeds with no problems at all.
This problem has been known to happen and usually only lasts a few days. It may be due to the fact that your baby is teething and sore gums make it uncomfortable or painful for him to nurse.
If you have been stressed recently or changed your nursing patterns due to a change in your daily routine, this could also affect your baby’s nursing.
Your baby may have sensed something “different” about you – whether it’s the fact that you’re using a new soap, perfume, deodorant or lotion, or that a change in your diet is making your milk taste different.
Of course, there’s also the possibility that you’re not the source of the problem – it could be that your baby is suffering from an ear infection, a stuffed-up nose, a cut in his mouth, or an oral infection called thrush.
If your pediatrician examines your baby and finds that there is nothing wrong, you can try to overcome the “strike” in your own way. Try to spend more time with your baby so that you can coax him to nurse without getting stressed about it. You may need to ask a family member, friend or babysitter to help out with the other chores in the house.
It may take a while to get your nursing schedule back to normal. Until then, make sure you pump or hand express to keep your milk supply up and to make sure the baby is getting enough to eat.
If you are stressed, your baby will sense it too – so make it as enjoyable for your baby as possible. Remember, it’s not just about feeding your baby, it’s also about bonding with him. Nurse in a quiet, comfortable place, and hug, caress and kiss your little one – it will comfort both baby and mother!
To learn how 9 a Day Plus Vitamins are made from nature’s table of fruits and veggies click here>>
Datuk Dr Nor Ashikin Mokhtar is a consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist (FRCOG, UK). For further information, visit www.primanora.com. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
True Healthy Products, LLC
915 N Courtenay Parkway
Merritt Island, FL 32953
USA
Email: support@truehealthyproducts.com
Toll Free: 888-400-2920
Fax: 321-821-1310
Posted by Maggie Guo | September 9th, 2009 at 10:04 pm |
Every day, the body and mind are involved in a struggle to maintain peak levels of concentration, energy, and alertness. From the moment you wake up, the body is already on the hunt for nourishment and the mind is in search of stimulation.
All too often, people tend to ignore just how important it is to treat the mind and body as a machine, one that must be maintained daily for optimum performance. Because so many people spend their entire workday cooped up inside an office or a plant, it is important to address the simple things that can be done to improve physical output and mental capacity. Just because you cannot go outside and run around all day does not mean you can just give up on ever having a healthy lifestyle. Instead, you must work twice as hard to ensure your lifestyle is as healthy as possible.
The first thing one can do to nourish the body and mind is to eat a well-balanced diet. Diets that consist of plenty of Vitamin-D and Calcium have been shown to increase organ functions as well as prevent several known ailments, such as Rickets and Osteoporosis.
Although Vitamin-D production increases when individuals are exposed to sunlight, sometimes it simply is not possible to spend sufficient time outdoors. Perhaps the sun only shines while you are at work or the winter months are too harsh to allow outdoor experiences. Whatever the issue, it becomes increasingly important for individuals who spend little time outdoors in the sunlight to enhance their diets with Vitamin-D to maintain a very healthy balance.
To achieve optimum health, quality supplementation is essential for radiant health. To discover true radiant health click here>>
The Good and Bad of cholesterol
The standard politically correct expression is that ‘cholesterol’ is a ‘bad’ thing to have and that it is responsible for causing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Most people have their cholesterol checked more often than they check the oil in their automobiles. Frankly speaking, most people are just plain ‘scared’ of the term ‘cholesterol.’ This single word – CHOLESTEROL – immediately conjures up thoughts of hardened attires, heart attacks, and deionized eggs!
There is no simple and direct answer to any question associated with cholesterol. The purpose of this multi-part article is specific information and answers to some of the most misunderstood concepts about cholesterol.
To acquire a greater understanding and appreciation for the overall dynamics of this often maligned word – cholesterol, we will want to look at a host of other related concepts. Such as, How valid is the claim that eggs cause our cholesterol problem? Is there a connection between the liver, a persons’ insulin and leptin levels, and to cholesterol? What is the connection between cholesterol and statin drugs? Just what is cholesterol? How does all of this terminology, HDL, LDL, etc., fit into the picture? Is there a direct relationship between cholesterol and heart attacks? Just how does cholesterol work within our bodies? Finally, what might be a more correct description of what is causing CVD?
These and many other questions will be addressed in a logical process. It is our intent to introduce simple ideas or questions with logical responses. When a topic question is presented, a simple and direct response is given when possible. However, because of the nature of the subject and to better explain the ’cause and effect,’ there will be additional information provided to better clarify each issue. This information will serve to better illuminate the subject under consideration.
This is not an attempt to present a university level course on cholesterol. It is, however, an attempt to raise the veil of confusion surrounding the much misunderstood ideas of cholesterol.
Basically, we want to look beyond the standard rhetoric and peer into the real science and biology so that we can gain a better understanding of this fearful cholesterol and see for ourselves if it is really as ‘BAD’ as it is promoted.
There is more than ample scientific research to substantiate the content of the following articles. These articles, however, are aimed more at explaining the ‘nuts and bolts’ of cholesterol rather than trying to establish a new scientific theory. So anyone with Internet access and a few clicks of the mouse can find more that adequate research information that harmonizes with what is being presented.
This being established, lets begin. First we want to tackle the all fearful ‘egg’ and its alleged influence on our cholesterol issue.
The Rabbit and the Egg.
When people in general are asked, “Are eggs adversely affecting your cholesterol levels?” The majority of the people, without giving any great thought, will respond in the affirmative. This trend in thinking seems to be a popular misconception not supported by the evidence.
The infamous “food scare” associated with the egg goes all the way back to the 1960s. Somewhere in the clever minds of the researchers, it was decided to feed eggs to rabbits and document the results. The cataloged results of clever people feeding an animal protein to a vegetarian rabbit were easy to record – the rabbits died. Overlooking the obvious, the mantra of this research became ‘the eggs caused cholesterol – that caused cardiovascular disease,’ and the rest as they say, “is history.”
This became the springboard for a frenzy of negative articles about eggs, dietary cholesterol and heart disease appearing in popular magazines that contributed to a decline in egg consumption. With such a high frequency of articles sermonizing the egg, coupled with public statements by groups such as the American Heart Association linking eggs, blood cholesterol and heart disease, people started running to the dairy section of the grocery to purchase their cholesterol-free artificial eggs in a box.
So just how bad is the egg?
The egg does have some cholesterol in it. However, it also has up to 17 times as much lecithin. For those that do not know, lecithin is a cholesterol emulsifier. It is a group of yellow-brownish fatty substances occurring in animal and plant tissues, and in egg yolk. Lecithin is an integral part of cell membranes and can be completely metabolized by the body.
In short, any cholesterol contributed to the diet by the egg is also emulsified by the lecithin within the egg. In fact, eggs are an excellent dietary source of many essential (e.g., protein, choline) and non-essential (e.g., lutein/zeaxanthin) components, all of these may promote optimal health.
Because of this excellent standing, eggs have been referred to as a complete food and also regarded as a functional food. However, it is now well known that there is little if any connection between the consumption of egg-based dietary cholesterol and blood cholesterol levels. This we will explore more in depth in the coming articles.
So don’t be chicken of the egg!
If you were to review the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, October, 2004 you would find the results of some interesting experiments. These experiments were conducted in order to learn the effect whole eggs, or an equivalent amount in egg whites, had on cholesterol levels in children.
The abbreviated results contradict the age old standard of eggs causing CVD:
LDL levels increased after consuming two eggs a day, but decreased when broken down by subclasses of LDL cholesterol
Eating two eggs a day helped maintain LDL/HDL cholesterol levels.
There are many research studies that focused on the link between ‘bad’ cholesterol and eggs, specifically giving attention to the subclasses of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol called very low density lipoprotein (VLDL).
What surfaced was the determination that the small subfractions of LDL are more dangerous and were therefore associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, it was also determined that the larger proteins were not dangerous.
Believe it or not, there is actually more to this story. But, before we can continue, we need to acquire a better understanding of just what cholesterol is and how it works in the body. Additionally, there are the statin drugs and and other biological active components that we should have a basic understanding of so that all of this cholesterol information will make sense.
But before we jump into the meat of the cholesterol issue in PART II, lets make sure we are clear on what all the research is really indicating about the egg.
Very simply, there is no clear connection between eggs and cholesterol, much less eggs and heart disease. What is clear is that eggs are a great food, in fact one of the he
(THP) The health benefits of vitamins include their ability to prevent and treat various diseases including heart problems, high cholesterol levels, eye disorders, and skin disorders. Most of the vitamins also facilitate the body mechanisms and perform functions which are not performed by any other nutrient. Read how the vitamin below boosts these health benefits.
The latest on how supplements can ward off cancer.
Q. My family has a history of osteoporosis and I’d like to strengthen my bones to avoid it. Which exercises are best?
THE VILLAGES — Mom was right when she nagged you to eat your vegetables.
ScienceDaily 
As the year begins to wind down and the Christmas season draws near, many people are beginning to anticipate all of the treats and the food that will be available for the merry season.
(THP) In its direct form – retinol – vitamin A is found only in animal-based foods: fish oils, liver, egg yolk and even caviar are all excellent sources of retinol. A well-known antioxidant, it also protects us against cardiovascular disease.
“Over the past 40 years, I have used a variety of different nutritional products. As with most people, the results were more hype than reality. Allow me, first, to say how much that I appreciate your products. The distinct mark of any product is its efficacy. I can easily distinguish between my past program results, and the results achieved by using the Nitraplex high performance products – these are very effective natural products.
(THP) The health benefits of potassium include preventing stroke, blood pressure, anxiety and stress, while helping with muscular strength, metabolism, heart and kidney disorders, water balance, electrolytic functions, nervous system and other general health benefits.
Do Vitamin Supplements work?
(THP)
Ann Louise Gittleman–
(THP) Everyone by now, has surely heard of the H1N1 flu and all the dangers associated with it. We have all seen the children in other countries wearing face masks to prevent contracting the disease. There has even been talk of a pandemic. With the 
Posted by Maggie Guo | September 9th, 2009 at 10:04 pm |
The Good and Bad of cholesterol