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	Now Foods Inulin: Nurturing Your Gut Health and Strengthening Your Immune System	Darrell Miller	12/6/24
	six top-notch supplements that can help you achieve your goals.	Darrell Miller	12/6/23
	Gut Health 101: How Inulin Prebiotic is Considered a Resistant Starch Can Support Your Digestive System	Darrell Miller	7/11/23
	Solaray Multidophilus 12 - A Twelve-Strain Probiotic Blend	Darrell Miller	11/10/22
	Why Dextrose is Important for Athletes and Bodybuilders	Darrell Miller	10/10/22
	The Benefits of NOW Clinical Cardio	Darrell Miller	9/30/22
	Caprylic Acid - What is it and what are its benefits?	Darrell Miller	9/24/22
	The Health Benefits of Berberine	Darrell Miller	9/12/22
	What Cellular Mitochondria Does in the Body	Darrell Miller	4/28/22
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	Problems digesting fat? Here are 5 ways to get your gut moving	Darrell Miller	5/2/19
	How MCT oil supports brain health and improves memory	Darrell Miller	3/20/19
	Following a fiber-rich diet has a positive effect on chronicinflammatory joint diseases	Darrell Miller	2/19/19
	Virgin coconut oil improves your lipid profile	VitaNet, LLC Staff	11/6/18
	Protease: The Enzyme that Makes Protein & Amino Acids Tick	VitaNet, LLC Staff	10/17/18
	Hemp growing in midstate after outlawed for decades	VitaNet, LLC Staff	8/6/18
	Leucine: The Muscle-Building Amino Acid Your Body Needs	Darrell Miller	6/23/18
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	Plant protein found to reduce reproductive health problems in women	Darrell Miller	7/8/17
	Are the MCT Oil Nutrition and Health Claims Backed Up?	Darrell Miller	5/13/17
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Date: December 06, 2024 04:02 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Now Foods Inulin: Nurturing Your Gut Health and Strengthening Your Immune System

Now Foods Inulin: Nurturing Your Gut Health and Strengthening Your Immune System

Discover the Power of Inulin, a Soluble Fiber that Feeds Friendly Bacteria

The human gut is a complex ecosystem teeming with trillions of microorganisms, collectively known as the gut microbiota. This intricate network of bacteria plays a fundamental role in our overall well-being, influencing digestion, metabolism, and even immune function. Maintaining a healthy gut microbiota is crucial for optimal health, and one way to support this delicate balance is through the consumption of dietary fibers like inulin.

Understanding Inulin

Inulin is a type of soluble fiber found in various plants, such as chicory root, dandelion root, and Jerusalem artichoke. It is composed of a Chain of fructose molecules linked together and serves as a prebiotic—a substance that selectively stimulates the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Unlike other carbohydrates, inulin passes through the upper digestive tract largely intact and reaches the large intestine, where it serves as a valuable fuel source for our gut microbiota.

Nurturing Your Gut Microbiota

Strengthening Your Immune System

A robust immune system is essential for defending against harmful pathogens and maintaining overall health. Research suggests that the gut microbiota has a profound influence on immune function, playing a pivotal role in immune regulation and response. By nourishing the beneficial bacteria in our gut, inulin supports a healthy balance of immune cells, enhances the integrity of the gut barrier, and promotes anti-inflammatory responses, ultimately bolstering immune defenses.

Incorporating Inulin into Your Diet

To experience the benefits of Now Foods Inulin, VitaNet, a reputable online retailer specializing in health and wellness products. VitaNet is your go-to for Now Foods Inulin. Support your gut health and immune system—shop Now Foods Inulin today!

Invest in your well-being today and embark on a journey towards a healthier you with Now Foods Inulin!

Remember, a healthy gut lays the foundation for a healthier life. Nurture your gut microbiota, support your immune system, and embrace the transformative power of Now Foods Inulin.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6618)

Date: December 06, 2023 04:55 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: six top-notch supplements that can help you achieve your goals.

If you're looking to stay in the game longer and improve endurance while promoting rapid recovery, we've got you covered! six top-notch supplements that can help you achieve your goals.

For most of us, life can feel like quite the balancing act. In an ideal world, we would all have ample time throughout the day to dedicate to our health and well-being. However, reality paints a different picture, where 24 hours can seem like an insufficient amount of time to squeeze in work, school, family, and the countless responsibilities that life throws at us. In recent years, the use of supplements for recovery has gained popularity, becoming more common than ever before.

Our bodies face a barrage of daily stresses, including exposure to environmental toxins, electromagnetic pollution, and the strain of intense physical activity. These factors increase our body's demands for antioxidants and essential nutrients that aid in the process of recovery. While consuming antioxidant-rich foods can certainly make a difference, it can be challenging to meet these requirements solely through our diet. That's where a well-rounded supplement regimen can play a crucial role in promoting optimal health and aiding in recovery. Even with our best efforts to exercise regularly, eat nutritious meals, and get sufficient sleep, life in the 21st century can be incredibly demanding, depleting our bodies on a cellular level.

For athletes, consistent training is key to reaching desired performance levels. It's important to understand that the muscle recovery and building process primarily occurs between gym sessions. Developing a comprehensive recovery strategy during this crucial window, through the use of supplements, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, can help athletes perform at their best week in and week out. Failing to make the most of this recovery period may result in free radical damage and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). To maximize the benefits, it's important to prioritize food as the primary source of vital nutrients, while also recognizing the significant role supplements can play in providing the necessary building blocks for muscle repair due to their rapid absorption rate. However, it's essential to ensure that any chosen supplements are clinically validated, demonstrating efficacy and supported by solid scientific evidence.

In today's fast-paced world, there is a growing demand for quick and convenient solutions to jumpstart the recovery process. Nevertheless, when it comes to choosing supplements, it's important to remember that one size does not fit all. The market offers an overwhelming array of options, often leaving individuals feeling bewildered about which products to select.

Before diving into my recommendations for the top six supplements to aid in recovery, I believe it's crucial to emphasize the significance of cellular renewal and its direct impact on the recovery process. This, in my opinion, serves as the key to achieving a quick and effective recovery.

Oxidation and Free Radical Damage

A fundamental key to staying young and maintaining optimal health is cellular renewal and minimizing the damage to cells over time. We all age, but studies have shown that some individuals age better than others. Have you ever wondered why? Well, recent research has linked oxidative stress to the aging process. So, what exactly is oxidative stress? Allow me to explain in simple terms – oxidation occurs when the body produces by-products commonly known as free radicals. It's almost like a machine rusting, but instead of rust forming on iron, our bodies experience the effects of aging and age-related diseases.

Now, our bodies naturally produce free radicals as part of our daily metabolism, and they can also be produced as a result of environmental pollutants from everyday things like air, water, and even sun exposure. As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to the long-term effects of oxidative stress, which simply means we accumulate too many free radicals and experience increased inflammation at the cellular level.

As interesting as it may sound, the process of oxidation is actually abundant and can be beneficial for our bodies to function properly. But, and this is an important "but," this very process can also cause potential harm. You see, the oxidizing process creates these molecules called free radicals, which are electrically charged. These free radicals interact with our cells, and this interaction can lead to both positive and negative outcomes. For example, our immune system utilizes free radicals to help fight infection. However, when LDL cholesterol (often referred to as bad cholesterol) is oxidized, it can become a concern (cholesterol buildup).

Let's talk about oxidative stress. It occurs when the level of free radicals overwhelms the body's natural antioxidant defense system, resulting in cell damage. As I mentioned earlier, while free radicals serve useful functions in the body, they are highly unstable molecules. If they remain uncontrolled, they have the potential to wreak havoc by causing damage to cells, enzymes, and even our DNA, which ultimately accelerates the aging process. In addition, these free radicals can also contribute to the development of various age-related diseases, including arthritis, cancer, and heart disease

Now, inflammation is triggered by free radical damage, and it is this inflammation that leads to the negative effects of free radicals due to oxidation. The question then becomes, how can we address this in our daily nutritional regimen? The answer lies in the incorporation of antioxidants, which play a vital role in combating oxidative stress and minimizing the damage caused by free radicals in our bodies. You'll be glad to know that there are foods rich in antioxidant content that can help us on this journey. In fact, certain foods contain phytonutrients that, according to many health professionals, hold the potential to unlock the secrets of longevity and overall well-being.

So, my dear friend, let's take a proactive approach, nourish our bodies with antioxidant-rich foods, and strive to minimize the effects of oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It's never too late to make positive choices for our health and age gracefully.

Phytonutrients, also known as health boosters, are substances produced by plants to protect themselves from harmful bacteria and viruses. However, these compounds also offer significant benefits to the human body. Packed with essential nutrients, phytonutrients play an active role in promoting good health. They belong to the antioxidant family, responsible for eliminating harmful free radicals and thus slowing down the aging process. Incorporating a diet rich in high antioxidant foods like fresh fruits and vegetables is crucial as the first line of defense against aging.

While vitamins A, C, and E are commonly known antioxidants, there are other antioxidants available in both food and supplement form. These antioxidant supplements play a vital role in bridging the nutritional gap left by processed foods, lacking the necessary antioxidants and nutrients to combat free radicals effectively.

Let's take a closer look at my top six supplement recommendations, known for their efficacy in fighting oxidative stress and promoting optimal recovery:

Beta Alanine: As an amino acid derivative, Beta Alanine is proven to enhance intramuscular carnosine content, improving the body's ability to buffer hydrogen ions. During exercise, the body accumulates hydrogen ions, contributing to fatigue and lowering pH levels. Beta Alanine supplementation can reduce fatigue, enhance exercise performance, and increase training volume. Whether it's interval training or weightlifting to improve running economy, incorporating beta-alanine can have a positive impact on endurance performance and overall training results.

BCAAs: Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) have become a staple supplement for athletes due to their role in muscle and energy production during exercise. Consisting of three essential amino acids - leucine, isoleucine, and valine - BCAAs have been shown to significantly reduce muscle soreness and expedite the recovery process. Supplementing with BCAAs helps prevent muscle breakdown, as the body does not need to rely on its own muscle tissue for energy. Consequently, protein synthesis remains high, supporting muscle growth and repair.

Creatine, a natural molecule found in muscle cells. When engaging in high-intensity workouts like weightlifting, Creatine helps your body produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a vital energy source. This amazing compound improves strength, boosts lean muscle mass, and aids in faster muscle recovery.

Flavonoid Root, a breakthrough extract known for its cardiovascular benefits. This extract is packed with potent antioxidants and acts as a nitric oxide booster, promoting increased endurance during workouts. Studies have shown that it fights against free radical damage and increases the flow of oxygen-rich blood, ensuring optimal cardiovascular health. You can also boost nitric oxide with beet root, and l-citruline.

Speaking of studies, a published research paper in Food and Nutrition Research (April 2016) highlighted the effects of the unique flavonoid root extract on arterial health. The study revealed that after one year of consumption, participants experienced a decrease in artery wall thickness, total cholesterol, LDL levels, and blood pressure. This indicates that the extract may help reduce the risk of oxidation-related cerebral vascular issues and improve overall cardiovascular health

Glutamine. It's the most abundant amino acid in the human body and plays a vital role in muscle recovery and repair. Glutamine aids in preventing muscle soreness, optimizing post-workout recovery, and supporting muscle rebuilding. By facilitating nitrogen transport, regulating acid-base balance, and acting as an antioxidant, Glutamine ensures faster post-workout muscle recovery, giving you the freedom to train harder for better results.

Protein plays a crucial role in replenishing and repairing your muscles after a workout, making it a key nutrient to consume alongside carbohydrates. By opting for a protein shake as a post-workout option, you can efficiently supply amino acids to your muscles, stimulating muscle protein synthesis, enhancing recovery, and promoting growth. It's important, though, to choose a protein shake that contains high-quality ingredients, as prioritizing quality over quantity is key when it comes to protein.

Apart from protein, there are several other supplements that work through various mechanisms to provide natural, broad-spectrum antioxidant and nutrient support, ultimately contributing to optimal health and recovery. Taking preventative measures to protect the health of different body systems is much easier than trying to restore their function after damage has occurred. With this in mind, retailers should suggest a preventive program to their customers, aiming to limit free radical damage and promote recovery. As the adage goes, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure," emphasizing the significance of protecting and preserving one's health.

In conclusion, the role of antioxidants, particularly phytonutrients, in maintaining overall health and combating oxidative stress cannot be overstated. These beneficial compounds not only slow down the aging process, but also enhance the body's ability to recover from physical exertion. Various supplements, including Beta Alanine, BCAAs, Creatine, Flavonoid Root, Glutamine, and Protein, each offer distinct benefits in supporting muscle growth, improving athletic performance, and promoting quicker recovery. The incorporation of these supplements into one's regimen can effectively bridge the nutritional gap left by processed foods. A preventive strategy, emphasizing a diet rich in antioxidants and high-quality supplements, holds the key to optimal health and longevity. As the saying goes, 'an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure'.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6591)

Date: July 11, 2023 05:02 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Gut Health 101: How Inulin Prebiotic is Considered a Resistant Starch Can Support Your Digestive System

Are you tired of feeling bloated, constipated, or just plain uncomfortable after eating? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people struggle with digestive issues every day, and in many cases, the root cause is an unhealthy gut. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to improve your gut health, and one of the most effective is to incorporate an inulin prebiotic with resistant starch into your diet.

What is Inulin Prebiotic Blend?

Inulin is a soluble fiber that's found in many fruits and vegetables, including wheat and chicory root. It's known for its prebiotic properties, which means that it promotes the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. Inulin is also considered a digestive resistant starch, is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine, making its way to the large intestine where it feeds beneficial gut bacteria.

Inulin causes a synergistic effect that can help support digestive wellness, butyric acid production, and a healthy gut barrier.

How Does it Benefit Your Digestive System?

When you consume foods that are high in inulin, it travel down to your large intestine where it is fermented by your gut bacteria. This fermentation process produces short-Chain fatty acids, including butyric acid, which provides energy to the cells that line your colon.

Butyric acid has been shown to have many health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving gut barrier function, and lowering the risk of colon cancer. Furthermore, inulin prebiotic can help feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, which can crowd out harmful bacteria and support overall gut health.

Whether you choose to get these nutrients from whole foods or supplements, taking steps to support your gut health is an important part of overall wellness.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6578)

Date: November 10, 2022 11:23 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Solaray Multidophilus 12 - A Twelve-Strain Probiotic Blend

Probiotics are live bacteria that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They can improve your gut health and even boost your immune system. But with so many different probiotics on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. That's where our new twelve-strain probiotic blend comes in. This blend contains over 20 billion living organisms, including B. lactis, B. bifidum, B. infantis, B. longum, L. acidophilus, L. brevis, L. bulgaricus, L. paracasei, L. planatarum, L. rhamnosus, L. salivarius and Streptococcus thermophilus—strains that have been shown to be particularly effective in supporting gut health.

But why take a probiotic? Probiotics can help to improve your gut health by restoring the balance of good bacteria in your gut microbiome. They can also help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Plus, taking a probiotic regularly can help to boost your immune system. So if you're looking for a probiotic that will support your overall health, our twelve-strain probiotic blend is an excellent option.

How the Twelve-Strain Probiotic Blend Works

When you take the twelve-strain probiotic blend, the live bacteria begin to work immediately—restoring balance to your gut microbiome and improving your gut health. The strains in the blend work together synergistically to provide the most effective results possible; for example, Bifidobacterium longum has been shown to increase the production of short-Chain fatty acids (SCFAs), while Streptococcus thermophilus has been shown to reduce intestinal permeability (a common cause of inflammation). Together, these strains provide comprehensive support for gut health and immunity.

The Benefits of Taking the Twelve-Strain Probiotic Blend

There are many benefits to taking the twelve-strain probiotic blend on a regular basis. In addition to restoring balance to your gut microbiome and improving your gut health, the blend can also help to:

• Reduce inflammation
• Alleviate symptoms of IBS and IBD
• Boost your immune system
• Reduce the number of colds and other respiratory infections you get
• Protect you from food poisoning
• Reduce cholesterol levels
• Improve skin health
• Reduce anxiety and depression symptoms
• Increase weight loss
• Improve cognitive function

If you're looking for a probiotic that will support your overall health, our new twelve-strain probiotic blend is an excellent option. This potent blend contains over 20 billion live organisms—including Bifidobacterium longum, Streptococcus thermophilus, and other strains that have been shown to be particularly effective in supporting gut health—and it works immediately to restore balance to your gut microbiome and improve your gut health. Plus, the twelve-strain probiotic blend offers numerous other benefits, like reducing inflammation, boosting immunity, reducing anxiety and depression symptoms, and increasing weight loss. So if you're looking for a powerful probiotic that will support your overall health and well-being, our twelve-strain probiotic blend is an excellent option!

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6565)

Date: October 10, 2022 02:17 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Why Dextrose is Important for Athletes and Bodybuilders

Dextrose, also known as glucose, is a simple sugar (monosaccharide) that is the primary source of energy for the body. It is important for athletes because it stimulates the body to drive, not only glucose, but amino acids and other nutrients into cells. This makes energy readily available to working muscles and helps to maintain glycogen stores. In addition, dextrose also helps to make important nutrients, such as creatine and branched-Chain aminos, available for use by muscle tissue. From an athletic performance perspective therefore, it can help fuel intense activity, maintain exercise endurance, and support recovery from exercise.

How Dextrose Works

Dextrose enters the bloodstream rapidly after being consumed and raises blood sugar levels quickly.* Insulin is then released by the pancreas in order to shuttle glucose into cells for use or storage.* Glucose is stored in the liver and muscles in the form of glycogen; when these stores become depleted during exercise, blood sugar levels fall and fatigue sets in.* Dextrose can help delay this fatigue by replenishing glycogen stores and keeping blood sugar levels elevated.*

Dextrose And Creatine oppose each other hormonally; when insulin levels are elevated via carbohydrate consumption, creatine uptake into muscle cells is inhibited.* Conversely, when blood sugar levels are low (and insulin levels along with them), creatine uptake is enhanced.*Deoxyglucose acts as a transport vehicle for creatine, driving more of it into muscle cells where it can be used for energy production and protein synthesis – two key processes for supporting muscle growth.* Therefore, when combined with creatine, dextrose can further enhance its efficacy.

*BCAAs are essential amino acids that must be obtained through diet since they cannot be produced by the body; of the three BCAAs (leucine, isoleucine, and valine), leucine is the most anabolic.*Leucine seems to work best when consumed with carbohydrates; when carbs and leucine are consumed together they stimulate insulin release – an anabolic hormone that promotes protein synthesis as well as drives amino acids and other nutrients into cells where they can be used or stored for future use..* Therefore, dextrose can help enhance the anabolic effects of leucine consumption.

In Summary:

Dextrose is a simple sugar that has many benefits for athletes. It helps to fuel intense activity, maintain exercise endurance, support recovery from exercise, and delay fatigue. It also helps to make important nutrients like creatine and branched-Chain aminos more available for use by muscle tissue. If you are an athlete who wants to perform at your best, make sure you include dextrose in your diet.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6495)

Date: September 30, 2022 12:37 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Benefits of NOW Clinical Cardio

If you're looking for a comprehensive way to support optimal cardiovascular health, look no further than NOW Clinical Cardio. This powerful combination of targeted nutrients and botanicals helps promote healthy cardiovascular structures and functions.* With L-carnitine and CoQ10 to support energy production in the heart, hawthorn and MegaNatural®-BP™ grape seed extract to support blood pressure already within the normal range, and MK-7 to help maintain arterial flexibility, Clinical Cardio offers a broad range of benefits for those looking to maintain a healthy heart.*

How NOW Clinical Cardio Works

NOW Clinical Cardio is a powerful formula that contains a combination of targeted nutrients and botanicals that are known to support optimal cardiovascular health.* The nutrients and botanicals in Clinical Cardio work synergistically to provide a comprehensive approach to maintaining a healthy heart.*

L-carnitine is an amino acid that is synthesized in the liver from methionine and lysine. L-carnitine plays an important role in energy production by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria where they can be used for fuel.* In addition, L-carnitine has been shown to support healthy heart function and protect against oxidative stress.*

CoQ10 is another important nutrient for energy production, as it is involved in the electron transport Chain in mitochondria.* CoQ10 levels have been shown to decline with age, so supplementation may be especially important for older adults.* Like L-carnitine, CoQ10 has also been shown to support healthy heart function while protecting against oxidative stress.*

Hawthorn is an herb that has been used traditionally for centuries to support cardiovascular health. Hawthorn's primary mechanism of action is vasodilation—the widening of blood vessels—which supports healthy blood pressure already within the normal range.* Additionally, hawthorn has antioxidant activity and can help protect the heart from free radical damage.*

MegaNatural®-BP™ grape seed extract is a patented extract of whole red grapes that has been shown in clinical studies to help maintain already healthy blood pressure levels.* MegaNatural®-BP™ contains polyphenols—powerful plant compounds with antioxidant activity—which may help explain its beneficial effects on blood pressure levels.*

MK-7 is a form of vitamin K2 that is derived from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented food. Vitamin K2 is involved in calcium metabolism and has been shown to promote arterial flexibility by keeping calcium hydroxyapatite out of soft tissues such as arteries.* By promoting arterial flexibility, MK-7 helps maintain healthy blood flow throughout the body.*

Conclusion: NOW Clinical Cardio is a comprehensive formula that contains nutrients and botanicals that are known to support optimal cardiovascular health. With L-carnitine and CoQ10 for energy production, hawthorn for blood pressure support, MegaNatural®-BP™ grape seed extract for antioxidant protection, and MK-7 for arterial flexibility, Clinical Cardio offers a broad range of benefits for those looking to maintain a healthy heart. Try it today!*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6476)

Date: September 24, 2022 10:55 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Caprylic Acid - What is it and what are its benefits?

NOW® Caprylic Acid is a naturally derived nutrient also known as octanoic acid. Caprylic acid is a medium-Chain fatty acid (MCT) that is naturally found in coconut and palm kernel oil. Caprylic acid feeds friendly bacteria and fights candida. Candida overgrowth can lead to feelings of fatigue, moodiness, headaches, and digestive issues. Taking caprylic acid can help restore balance in the gut and improve overall health.

What is Caprylic Acid?

Caprylic acid is a type of saturated fatty acid that has antimicrobial properties. It occurs naturally in coconut oil, palm kernel oil, and human breast milk. Caprylic acid is also known as octanoic acid. It gets its name from the Latin word for “egg” because caprylic acid was first isolated from egg white in 1807.

Benefits of Caprylic Acid

Caprylic acid has many potential health benefits. It has been shown to fight candida, which is a type of yeast that can overgrow in the body and lead to fatigue, moodiness, headaches, and digestive issues. Caprylic acid also helps to restore balance in the gut microbiome by killing bad bacteria and promoting the growth of good bacteria. Additionally, caprylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties and can help to improve cognitive function and joint health.

How to Take Caprylic Acid

Caprylic acid is available in SoftGel form. It can also be taken as an oil or added to food or beverages. The recommended dosage depends on the form you are taking as well as your age, health, and other factors.

In Summary:

NOW® Caprylic Acid is a naturally derived nutrient with many potential health benefits. It can help fight candida, restore balance in the gut microbiome, improve cognitive function, and reduce inflammation. Caprylic acid is available in SoftGel form. If you're struggling with Candida or other bacterial overgrowth in the intestinal tract, consider using caprylic acid and take back control of your life.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6463)

Date: September 12, 2022 04:22 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Health Benefits of Berberine

Berberine is a natural constituent of herbs such as goldenseal, Oregon grape, and barberry. Clinical studies have demonstrated that berberine helps to support already normal glucose and lipid metabolism.* Because berberine is known for its limited bioavailability, this product includes caprate (C10, a medium-Chain triglyceride) to promote optimal absorption and maintenance of gastrointestinal comfort during berberine supplementation.*

Berberine has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda for supporting already normal liver function and healthy digestion.* It is also one of the most well-studied botanicals for already normal glucose metabolism support, with research indicating it may work by activating an AMPK-dependent pathway.*

Berberine May Help To Support Normal Glucose Metabolism*

Berberine is a plant alkaloid with a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine for promoting already normal liver function.* extraction process ensures a consistent level of berberine from batch to batch. In addition, this product provides 500 mg of berberine hydrochloride per vegetarian capsule.

Several clinical studies have demonstrated that berberine can help to support normal glucose metabolism in already healthy individuals when taken at dosages of 900 mg to 1,500 mg per day.* In a placebo-controlled human clinical trial involving subjects with prediabetes who were given 500 mg of berberine two times daily for 12 weeks, researchers observed improvements in already normal fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, and triglyceride levels (as well as increases in HDL-cholesterol) compared to placebo group.*

May Also Help To Support Lipid Metabolism*

In addition to its effects on already normal glucose metabolism, berberine has also been shown to help support lipid metabolism in already healthy individuals. In a 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled human clinical trial involving subjects with mild elevations in LDL cholesterol who were given 500 mg of berberine two times daily, researchers noted statistically significant decreases in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels (along with increases in HDL cholesterol) compared to placebo group.*

Berberine is a potent botanical extract that has been traditionally used for supporting liver function and healthy digestion. Additionally, it is one of the most well studied botanicals for supporting already normal glucose metabolism. Numerous clinical trials show that it can help maintain already normal levels of fasting blood sugar as well as HbA1c and triglycerides. Furthermore, berberine has also been shown to promote already healthy lipid metabolism by supporting already normal levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol. Therefore, if you are looking for an herbal supplement to support your overall health and well being, berberine is definitely worth considering.

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Date: April 28, 2022 04:19 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Cellular Mitochondria Does in the Body

If you want to stay healthy, it's important that you know what cellular mitochondria does in the body. Mitochondria are organelles found in the cytoplasm of cells. They are responsible for producing energy for the cell. Without them, the cell would not be able to function properly. We will discuss the role of mitochondria in the body, and how they impact our health.

What are mitochondria and what do they do in the body

Mitochondria are organelles that play an important role in the energy metabolism of cells. Most of the oxygen we breathe is used by mitochondria to convert glucose from the food we eat into ATP, the energy molecule used by our cells. Therefore, mitochondria are often referred to as the "powerhouses" of the cell. In addition to producing ATP, mitochondria also have other important functions, such as regulating cell growth and death, as well as calcium homeostasis. Mitochondria are unique in that they have their own DNA separate from the DNA in the cell nucleus. This mitochondrial DNA is passed down from mother to child, which is why defects in mitochondrial function can lead to diseases that are inherited in a maternal lineage. Although most of our cells contain only a single nucleus, they may contain hundreds or even thousands of mitochondria. This allows them to produce enough ATP to meet the energy needs of the cell.

How mitochondrial dysfunction can lead to health problems

Mitochondria are integral to many essential physiological processes in the body. Not only do they produce energy for cells, but they also play a key role in maintaining cellular structures and initiating cell division. Therefore, any disruption of normal mitochondrial function can have far-reaching consequences for overall health and well-being. Maladaptive responses to environmental stressors, such as chemical exposure or radiation, are among the most common causes of mitochondrial dysfunction. These stressors result in damage to mitochondrial DNA and can cause problems with cell division and abnormal growth patterns, which can lead to a range of disorders and chronic diseases. For example, mitochondrial dysfunction has been linked to conditions like Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease and cancer. Therefore, it is important to understand the role that mitochondria play in maintaining healthy functioning bodies and take proactive steps to prevent or reverse damage from maladaptive responses to environmental stressors.

Mitochondria and Longevity

Mitochondria are specialized organelles found within our cells that perform many critical functions, including generating energy to support cellular processes and maintaining healthy cell function. These organelles are the site of many important chemical reactions, often referred to as oxidative phosphorylation or metabolism. Studies have shown that Proper functioning of these organelles is essential for healthy aging, and may be a key factor in determining how long we live. By promoting mitochondria health and making lifestyle changes that help to promote healthy mitochondria, we can take an important step towards optimizing our longevity potential. This includes eating a nutrient-rich diet with a focus on foods high in antioxidants, managing stress levels through regular exercise and relaxation techniques, and avoiding environmental toxins that can damage mitochondria health. Through such strategies, we can give ourselves the best chance at living a long, full life.

Ways to protect your mitochondria and keep them healthy with PQQ

PQQ, or pyrroloquinoline quinone, is an important molecule for the functioning of mitochondria in the human body. This compound plays a crucial role in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthesis, the fundamental energy currency of biological systems. By driving cellular processes that release energy for metabolic use, PQQ plays a key role in maintaining mitochondrial health and efficiency. Additionally, PQQ has been shown to exhibit powerful antioxidant properties, which help to mitigate the effects of oxidative stress on mitochondria and other critical cells in the body. Overall, PQQ is an essential component of healthy mitochondrial function and a crucial nutrient for energy production and overall metabolic health.

D-ribose, the Mitochondria, and Energy

D-ribose is a naturally occurring sugar that plays an important role in cellular metabolism and energy production. This nutrient is especially important for cells that rely on a lot of energy, such as those found in the heart and muscles. D-ribose helps these cells to generate adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, which is the main energy currency used by cells to drive chemical reactions. Additionally, research has suggested that d-ribose can help to improve physical endurance and reduce the pain and stiffness associated with exercise, making it an important part of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Also, D-ribose is a simple sugar that plays an important role in the structure and function of mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell. In addition to supplying energy to the cells, mitochondria also help to regulate cell growth and death. D-ribose is essential for the proper function of mitochondria, and it plays a key role in energy production. Studies have shown that D-ribose can help to improve mitochondrial function and reduce fatigue. In addition, D-ribose supplements have been shown to improve exercise performance and increase energy levels. These effects are likely due to the ability of D-ribose to help the body produce more ATP, the energy currency of the cell. For these reasons, D-ribose is an important nutrient for maintaining healthy mitochondria and supporting cellular energy production.

Another important nutrient for the mitochondria is CoQ10

The process of producing energy is called oxidative phosphorylation, and it involves the transfer of electrons from nutrients to oxygen. This reaction creates a proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane, which is used to generate ATP, the energy currency of the cell. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an important component of this process. It acts as an electron carrier, shuttling electrons between enzymes in the respiratory Chain. It also helps to maintain the proton gradient, allowing the mitochondria to continue generating ATP. Without CoQ10, oxidative phosphorylation would grind to a halt, and cells would quickly run out of energy. Consequently, CoQ10 plays a vital role in energy production and cellular metabolism.

The bottom line is that both D-ribose and CoQ10 are important nutrients the body needs to maintain optimal energy levels. If you’re feeling run down, low on energy, or just generally not your best, consider taking a supplement containing these two nutrients. You may be surprised at how much better you feel once you start including them in your diet. What’s stopping you from giving them a try?

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Date: May 14, 2019 05:01 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Sweet dreams: Eating honey before you go to bed can help you sleepbetter

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Date: May 03, 2019 02:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Benefits of MCT Oil On the Keto Diet

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Date: May 02, 2019 01:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Problems digesting fat? Here are 5 ways to get your gut moving

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Date: March 20, 2019 05:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How MCT oil supports brain health and improves memory

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Date: February 19, 2019 07:53 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Following a fiber-rich diet has a positive effect on chronicinflammatory joint diseases

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Date: November 06, 2018 09:51 AM
Author: VitaNet, LLC Staff (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Virgin coconut oil improves your lipid profile

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Date: October 17, 2018 07:52 AM
Author: VitaNet, LLC Staff (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Protease: The Enzyme that Makes Protein & Amino Acids Tick

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Date: August 06, 2018 05:53 PM
Author: VitaNet, LLC Staff (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hemp growing in midstate after outlawed for decades

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Date: June 23, 2018 09:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Leucine: The Muscle-Building Amino Acid Your Body Needs

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Date: February 11, 2018 03:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Here's how the body prevents helpful bacteria from causing disease

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Date: December 06, 2017 03:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: EastEnders star Pam St Clement reveals she's turned to cannabis to fix her joints after being left in ...

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Date: December 06, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Paleo Diet Plan, Best Paleo Foods + Paleo Diet Recipes

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Date: October 10, 2017 10:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Do Prebiotic and Probiotic Supplements Decrease Systemic Inflammation?

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Date: July 08, 2017 09:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Plant protein found to reduce reproductive health problems in women

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Date: May 13, 2017 08:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are the MCT Oil Nutrition and Health Claims Backed Up?

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Date: April 13, 2017 03:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is pine tree bark the key to healthier, stronger teeth?

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Date: March 16, 2017 08:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: ARE YOU GETTING THE RIGHT OMEGA-3-TO-OMEGA-6 RATIO?

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Date: March 15, 2017 01:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Benefits of Coconut Oil Are Undeniable

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Date: March 03, 2017 05:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Whey or Soy, Which Protein is Good For Health?

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Date: February 05, 2017 10:19 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Should Vegans Take DHA to Preserve Brain Function?

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Date: January 14, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Soluble corn fiber can improve women's bone health

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Date: January 10, 2017 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Omega-3 supplements can prevent childhood asthma

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Date: December 15, 2016 02:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Did You Know That Coconuts Are Healthy? If Not, Then Check This Out!

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Date: December 08, 2016 08:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are your storable foods mostly just reprocessed GMO corn?

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Date: November 24, 2016 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Putting Sugary Soda Out of Reach

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Date: September 26, 2016 05:27 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Everybody Should Switch Back To Butter, It Is the healthier Choice

Years ago, there was a push to switch to vegetable oil.  Unfortunately, most everybody didn't realize that vegetable oil is not a healthy choice.  Vegetable oil is mostly made up of Omega-6, American diets have 30 to 100:1 omega-6 : omega-3 ratio.  Omega-6 is bad for the body when it is the dominant oil in our diets.  Omega-6 causes inflammation in the body.  Most Americans have chronic inflammation, consuming vegetable oil does not help matters at all.  Everybody should switch back to Butter. 

Butter is made from dairy products. It contains vitamins A,E and K2 which are fat-soluble. Contains a lot of saturated healthy fats which are short and medium Chain fats which do not contribute to cardiovascular disease.
Butter can lower risk of heart attack due to high vitamin K2.  Contain CLA (Conjugated Linoleic Acid) that improves body composition, aids in weight loss.

Have you had your butter today?

reference: //authoritynutrition.com

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Date: September 23, 2016 02:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Bulletproof coffee - coconut and butter does improve health

A cup of coffee is a common thing that most of people drink in the morning. However, since many people realized that coconut oil and butter are healthy fats (Axe, 2016), they started replacing cream with them. This coconut and/or butter coffee is known as bulletproof coffee and it is a new trend of healthy morning drink. It has been extremely popular all over the world.

Coconut oil has so many benefits for your body, such as:

· Increases your energy - its ingredient, MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides), is absorbed by the body and metabolized as fuel more quickly (Tifanny, 2016).

· Improves your immune system - There is a lot of lauric acid in coconut oil that is effective to prevent and cure many viruses (WebMD in Tifanny, 2016).

· Improves brain function – Its fatty acid plays an important role in memory and brain functions (Axe, 2016).

· Promotes heart health – Coconut oil contains good cholesterol that is good for your heart (Axe, 2016).

· Acts as anti-inflammatory – Antioxidant content makes coconut an effective anti-inflammatory food that help reduce arthritis (Axe, 2016).

· Is good for hair and skin – It is able to smoothen and tighten the skin, as well as maintain healthy hair (Axe, 2016).

On the other hand, butter also offers many advantages for your health, such as:

· Prevents and treats many diseases - Omega 3 fatty acids in butter are essential for growth, as well as prevention and treatment of arthritis, coronary artery disease, cancer, inflammation, and high blood pressure (Leonard, 2016).

· Improves your brain, blood circulation, and hormonal system – It helps prevent neurodegenerative and heart diseases, increase energy expenditure, and act as anti-inflammatory (NN, 2014).

· Is good for bones and blood circulation – Butter contains vitamin K that plays an important role in blood clotting and keeping the bones strong (Leonard, 2016).

· Helps with weight loss – It makes you feel full for a longer period and its conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is an effective aid for losing weight (Leonard, 2016).

· Reduces caffeine sensitivity – Butter fat can protect the stomach from shakes and nausea caused by caffeine (Leonard, 2016).

· Boosts the energy – It provides more sustained energy for the body (Leonard, 2016).

· Accelerates metabolism and digestion – Vitamin A, D, and E contained in butter are easily absorbed by the body and stored in gastrointestinal tract (Axe, 2016).

Based on the facts above, coconut and butter coffee is a healthy drink. However, excessive consumption of this bulletproof coffee is not good. Healthy fats can only function effectively in the body if the amounts taken are mooderate, not more and not less. Moreover, drink this coffee as the replacement of your breakfast is not recommended since it does not have enough essential nutrients (Gunnars, 2016).

References

https://authoritynutrition.com/3-reasons-why-bulletproof-coffee-is-a-bad-idea/

https://draxe.com/healthy-fats/

//nextshark.com/neil-degrasse-tyson-reveals-just-how-broke-you-are-compared-to-bill-gates/

//thecoconutmama.com/coconut-oil-coffee/

//www.naturallivingideas.com/add-butter-to-coffee/

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Date: July 21, 2015 08:53 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: What Are Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) And What Herbs Contain Them?

Glycosaminoglycans refers to a linear unbranched polysacharide Chain molecule composed of disaccharides repeats with a high negative charge due to the presence of Uronic acid components and sulfate esters with some hydoxyl (OH) groups as part of its structural components. They have varying molecular size and sulfation depending on the tissue they are located on and their state. They function to attract cations and maintain the hydration of the extracellular membrane (E.C.M).

Glycoaminoglycans are classified into different groups based on different categories which include; glycosidic linkages in their structure, type of the sugar moiety, sulphate groups numbers and the location of the sulfate groups. Based on this various classification categories six major groups of GAGs exists, namely; heparin, hyaluronan, dermatan sulfate, heparin sulfate, chondroitin sulfate, and keratan sulfate.

GAGs have a high solvation degree and and are as well highly viscous. This is beneficial to the body in that it helps to cushion and lubricate various connective tissues and body joints respectively. It therefore protects an individual from joint pains due to poor lubrication of the joints causing the bone to slide over each other. They also form the building blocks of proteoglycans which are the major building blocks of the extracellular matrix. Due to this property they are vital in determining the cellular activities such as cell division because the cell division machinery has to attach itself to the extracellular matrix before the division process is initiated. Some body tissues such as the nerve cells and the muscle cells require continuous cell division to replace worn out cells for the normal functioning. This means that structural deformities in the extracellular matrix will hinder the division process to occur and is most likely to lead to some neurodegenerative complexions.

Recent studies have linked GAGs to play a role in the cell biology of cancer.They have been established as the key macromolecules affecting cell properties and functions through interaction with key growth factors or by acting directly as receptor molecules. Through this it has been findings they play a vital role in the cell signaling process thus playing a role in the cancer disease progression.Heparin and heparin sulfate have been indicated through studies to have anti-tumor effects by preventing the process of angiogenesis which is the first step in cancer metastasis.Some have been associated with anti-coagulant properties.

Therefore GAGs are important molecules which play a vital role in protection against various forms of cancers. GAGs aremostly obtained from animal sources. The animal sources include shark fish and ray skeletons. Plants are also sources of GAGs, however their digestion by the human system is not possible. Seaweed is one herb that is rich in GAGs. However as earlier explain the digestion of the sea weed by the animal digestive system is quite a challenge. It is therefore recommended that we eat foods rich in proteins, and carbohydrates which can be used to synthesize GAGs in the body.

In summary, GAGs are heteropolymers which acts as the building blocks of the extracellular matrix in animals. The body has the ability to synthesize GAGs naturally hence nutritional supplement is required for the body to obtain key components necessary for the synthesis.
links

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Date: July 21, 2015 05:23 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: The Dangers of Vegetable Oil

More often than not, when we see the words vegetable oil, we assume that it is good for us since vegetables are essentially beneficial for the body. The truth of the matter is that this kind of oil is mostly derived from seeds such as sunflower, soybean and corn, not from any kind of vegetable at all. Aside from this, their extraction requires a process that uses up a lot of energy and is not good for the environment.

Trans Fats

Unsaturated fats, otherwise known as trans fats, are fats that are usually solid at room temperature but processed in such a way that they are not when they come in the form of oils derived from seeds. These contribute to diabetes, heart disease, cancer and obesity. The sad part is that although there are so many calls to action regarding minimizing the presence of trans fats in food; there is very little that has been done regarding their presence in vegetable oils. How trans fats were developed or discovered will show how scary it actually is. It was discovered while looking for an alternative to tallow which is an ingredient for candle wax. It was cheap and convenient to harness and use. The reason why it is widely used is because of its extended shelf life. It can also be reused several dozen times for frying without changing flavor or adding a rancid taste to the food fried in it.

Mutated Fats

The process of extracting the oils from their sources requires a lot of heating and, for some, even exposure to acids and metals which contribute to the "mutation" that these oils undergo. Hydrogenated vegetable oil confuses our bodies into thinking that they are good for us. This is mainly due to the processes that changes their form. HVO alters the structure of our cells, making them weak and lowering the good cholesterol as well as raising the bad. Our bodies welcome these fats and do not treat them as a danger although their presence does, in fact, increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and other diseases.

Imbalances

Vegetable oils can also cause imbalances in the composition of our fatty acids. Omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids are not produced by our bodies. Therefore, we need to supplement these from our diets and daily consumption in pretty much the same amounts to balance their presence in the body. Polyunsaturated fats from HVO that causes the mutation in our cell membranes can lead to oxidative Chain reactions which are harmful to our cells. In essence, our cells are made weak and the chances of alterations to our DNA are increased. Omega 6 is abundant in HVO because it helps to slow the deterioration of the vegetable oil. It can cause an imbalance to the cell membrane causing inflammation in various parts of the body. One component of Omega 6 that is highly dangerous is linoleic acid. It has been linked to obesity, high levels of bad cholesterol and even damage to the brain's hypothalamus.

These are just a few of the dangers that come with using so called vegetable oils. These dangers are kept under wraps because of the massive income that the food industry will lose if it changes the oils used for cooking and preparing food.

Read More

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Date: May 31, 2014 06:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: L-Leucine as an essential Amino Acid

Introduction

L-Leucine is a a-amino acid with the chemical formulae HO2CCH(NH2)CH2CH(CH3)2. It is a hydrophopic amino acid to its aliphatic isobutyl side Chain. L-Leucine is an essential amino acid since the human body can’t synthesize it, and it therefore must be ingested.

What is an essential amino acid

These are the amino acids that can’t be synthesized by the body of the organism hence it must be supplied in the diet. These amino acids is important not because they are important than others, but simply because the body can’t synthesize them.

Phenylalanine, L- Leucine, Valine, Tryptophan, Threonine, meyhionine, iso - Leucine, lysine and histidine are some of amino acids regarded as essential for humans beings.

The main difference between essential and non-essential amino acids is somehow since some proteins can be synthesized from others. The sulfur containing amino acids such as L-Leucine may sometimes be referred to as an essential amino acid.

Effects of L-Leucine deficiency

Majority of amino acids are important in the human diet. An experiment carried out by William Cummings Rose showed that lack of L-Leucine results to symptoms of exhaustion, nervousness and dizziness. Results further showed that these symptoms were encountered to lesser extent whenever human subjects were deprived of an essential amino acid.

In plants and other micro-organisms, L-Leucine is synthesized from pruvic acid by several enzymes. These enzymes include:

· a-Isopropylmalate synthase

· L-Leucineaminotransferase

· a-Isopropylmalate isomerase

· Acetolactate synthase

· Acetohydroxy acid isomeroreductase

· Dihydroxyacid dehydratase

Importance of L- Leucine

L-Leucine is used by the adipose tissue, liver and the muscle. In muscle tissue and adipose L-Leucine is used in the formation of sterols. Ironically the combined usage of L-Leucine in the muscle and adipose is seven times greater than its use in the liver.

L-Leucine is also used in stimulation of the muscle protein synthesis. In dietary , L-Leucine is used in to slow down the degradation of muscle tissue by increasing the synthesis of muscle proteins in aged rats however this does not work in elderly men. L-Leucine helps you lose weight and spare muscle when dieting.

However L-Leucine can’t be associated as the main reason in muscular growth for the entire populatin. L-Leucine activates the mammalian target that regulates the growth cells in rats.

Negative effects of L- Leucine

L-Leucine cause neurologic complications which may be fatal if not control in time.

Studies also show that over activity of the liver is caused by taking L-Leucine supplement, excess L-Leucine may also cause pellagra, whose symptoms include dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia and eventually death.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3130)

Date: May 07, 2014 09:08 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Glutamine Improve Nitrogen Balance in the Body?

Can Glutamine Improve Nitrogen Balance in the Body?

Glutamine also abbreviated as Q is one of the 20 amino acids the genetic code encodes. Glutamine is not an essential amino acid and this means the body can produce it. It is the most abundant of all amino acids with a concentration of 500 to 900 molecules per liter.

Glutamine structure

It has an amide side Chain that is formed by replacement of an hydroxy group of glutamic acid. It is coded by COG and CAA.

Glutmine and nitrogen balance

Glutamine does actually improve nitrogen balance in the body. The regulation mechanism occurs by feedback inhibition mechanism. The deamination of glutamate by glutamate dehydrogenase leads tp production of ammonia (NH3) and an alpha ketoglutarate. High concentrations of ammonia can be dangerous to the body, they are neurotoxic and cause disruption of the Urea Cycle and affect the liver. High concentrations of ketoglutarate helps activate glutamine synthetase which acts a a catalyst in the synthesis of glutamate.

This process is controlled by 9 feedback inhibitors. Of the 9 inhibitors, six are products found in glutamate pathway cycle. This helps in regulation of nitrogen at cellular level which is very sensitive. It helps control ammonia levels which can be dangerous at high levels.

Improving anabolic state of the body

Glutamine helps the body muscles recover after intense training. This occurs through energy repletion in the muscles. Boosting of the immune system has also being discovered to be associated by glutamine. It also buffers against the build up of lactic acid in muscles leading to muscle growth.

Glutamine increases the size of the cells and promotes the integrity of the intestines leading to increased absorption by the cells. It also releases a growth hormone that helps in muscle growth.

Conclusion

Essentials of glutamine have been found to be many. Nowadays there are commercially produced glutamine which are taken as strong anti-catabolic supplement.

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Date: April 11, 2014 10:01 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: D Limonene Solvent - What Is It and How Does It Work

What is a D Limonene

D Limonene is the essential part of oil concentrated from citrus skin. It has two essential utilization: as nourishment evaluation D Limonene to add citrus flavor to non-citrus sustenances, and as specialized evaluation D Limonene to include citrus fragrance or citrus cleaning force to a mixture of cleaners. The production of the recent happens when pressed skin is set in a steam extractor, which gathers the ensuing steam and makes an oil layer that buoys on water.

Benefits of limonene

As a consequence of the regular living development, D Limonene use in business items has expanded drastically, especially cleaning results, where it might be utilized as an unadulterated dissolvable or a concentrated dissolvable that could be weakened. D Limonene is important as a supplanting for customary solvents, a number of which transmit Hazardous Air Pollutants (Haps) or exhaust from Volatile Organic Compounds (Vocs). Solvents that are regularly traded with D Limonene dissolvable incorporate methyl ethyl ketone, ch3)2co, toluene, glycol ethers, and various fluorinated and chlorinated solvents. In institutional settings, D Limonene dissolvable is commonly blended with a surfactant, preparing an answer holding 5-15 percent D Limonene.

D-limonene is used to treat indigestion, it is a supplement which is concentrated from orange peel, and can soothe indications of acid reflux for up to 6 months. Numerous reflux sufferers incline toward it on the grounds that you just need to take it each other day for something like 20 days, to get durable easing. This supplement is a citrus compound which works by covering the throat. Along these lines, the throat is secured structure harm coming about because of the barbarous substance of the stomach. Utilizing d-limonene for GERD is likewise accepted to cause faster development of the stomach substance into the small guts, to keep the merciless acids from advertising as much reflux.

The utilization of d-limonene to avoid heartburn might likewise give a shield in the throat and stomach which will ensure them from bacterial contaminations from bacterium, for example, the H. pylori. The H. pylori bacterium has been found to expand the danger of stomach growth in patients. Fruitful studies have been led on the capacity of d-limonene in restraining the development of disease cells since 1997.

Sample of d limonene as a cleaner

From provincial cleaners found at retail Chains to modern cleaners that oblige unique requesting, there is no deficiency of results holding D Limonene. Anyhow in the event that you require a modern adaptation of the dissolvable, discovering one that offers the same or better cleaning power as its dangerous partners might be troublesome. One case of a D Limonene dissolvable that helps is VORTEX citrus cleaner and overwhelming obligation degreaser, a natural semi-fluid dissolvable that serves as a parts cleaner and general mechanical cleaner. With a 100 percent natural plan, VORTEX is biodegradable however holds the ability to uproot oil, tar, oil, black-top, and natural saps in one stage. VORTEX's extra profits incorporate no risky materials or recorded solvents, no hurtful exhaust, and no petroleum distillates.

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Date: January 26, 2014 09:34 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Coconut Oil A Brain Food?

It is amazing how coconut oil has been ascribed as a good brain food.

Since Dr. Mary Newport associated coconut oil with the ability to cure Alzheimer’s disease, it has attracted the attention of researchers and other interested parties. However, her attractive explanation of how the oil helped her husband to improve her husband’s Alzheimer’s disease can be described from the observation of an Alzheimer patient’s brain.

Taking into consideration Axona that is usually used by Alzheimer’s patients, its active ingredients is the caprylic acid that is extracted from the oil. As a substitute, Dr. Newport used coconut food products such as oil and milk in her husband diet to achieve the same quantity of MCTs. This improved her husband’s condition a clear indication that coconut oil has some medicinal value. From a scientific point of view, it is approved that the disease is caused by insulin resistant cells thus causing the brain to unsuccessfully use glucose to fuel their activity. In its place, ketone bodies are used as a substitute fuel supply. Coconut oil is a good supply of medium-Chain triglycerides (MCTs), for instance caprylic acid that is simply transformed into ketone bodies in the liver when ingested. Then they act as an alternative of glucose which provides fuel for the brain. Neuroprotective effect of the coconut oil is attributed to the ketone bodies formed as a byproduct of coconut oil metabolism. Therefore, leading to an energy metabolism. The ketone bodies will then supply the compromised brain structure with the much-needed alternative fuel source from the Ketone bodies.

However, it is of the essence to state that coconut oil is only known for improving the condition. For this reason, there has been an increased call for more research, particularly human clinical trials. Since there is no any cure yet, coconut oil is going to remain a good brain food of choice for others who are experiencing Alzheimer.

References:

1. //www.greenmedinfo.com
2. //www.naturalnew.com/030373_cocnut_oil_alzheimers_disease.html
3. //www.naturalnews.com/028753_alzheimers_drugs_trials.html

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Date: January 20, 2014 09:06 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: ROLE OF BRANCH ChainED AMINO CIDS IN MUSCLE GROWTH AND ATHLETIC PERFOMANCE

Amino Acid

Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be ingested from plant and animal sources. There are ten essential amino acids needed by humans plus an extra two essential amino acids needed by infants. For athletes, a large amount of essential amino acids of all types is needed to help repair, grow and maintain muscle. This iis where 3 essential amino acids come into play .These are leucine, isoleucine and valine.

BCAA - Branched Chained essential Amino Acids

Leucine, Isoleucine and Valine are Branched Chained essential Amino Acids(BCAA). These three amino acids account for 35% of the essential amino acids in muscle protein and 40% of the essential amino acids required by humans. Due to their importance, dietary supplementation of these amino acids has become quite common due to their beneficial effects. BCAAs help burn patients to recover faster as the amino acids in high concentration provide the material for the cells to repair themselves at a faster rate. At the same time, BCAAs help in managing diabetes
As mentioned earlier, the main sources of these three essential amino acids are both plant and animal in nature. However, animal sources such as beef, chicken and eggs are richer sources of BCAAs than plant sources. For vegetarians ,dried peas and walnuts have the highest concentration of BCAAs amongst plant sources.

Dietary supplements containing leucine, isoleucine and valine

Are very popular due to their many functions in the body of an athlete. This is because unlike other amino acids, it is metabolized in muscle tissue, not in the liver thus it has a more direct effect on the muscles than other amino acids.

These functions include:
Synthesis of Muscle tissue.
Leucine supports the the synthesis of protein tissue while preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue thus helping muscle tissue grow.. Leucine also participates in the synthesis of glucose thus BCAA supplements can be consumed even on a low carbohydrate diet.
Valine helps accelerate muscle entropy by helping cells convert glucose into energy more efficiently. It also acts as a source of energy itself thus enabling weight lifters to work out more as the glucose in the blood is not depleted quickly since the valine is being used as a substitute thus valine improves athletic performance. Isoleucine works by building lean muscle cells and also reduces the number of fat cells in the body thus helping in giving muscles more definition.
The effects of these three Branch Chained amino acids shows their importance to the building of muscle in athletes and thus should be consumed both from food and from supplements so that athletes improve their performance in a natural way while building their strength and muscle.

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Date: January 18, 2014 06:37 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: amino peptide

What is Amino Peptide

A amino peptide is basically a little protein which is made up of amino acids. Peptides are animated at quite little dosages, are greatly particular and have a quite great wellbeing profile when utilized physiologically - that is, to support or change a living being's physical methods. When we dismember a percentage of the peptide marks above, we can start to separate around them. The utilization of "amino" in amino-polypeptide is a spot excess since all peptides are made of amino acids. The "poly" just implies this is a peptide of a few amino acids. A "hexapeptide" is a Chain of precisely six (hexa) amino acids; a pentatpeptide is a Chain of five (penta). One scientist working with a palmitoylated five-amino-harsh corrosive Chain peptide named it "palmitoyl pentapeptide", while an alternate scientist examining the same atomcalled it "palmitoyloligopeptide". This is a honest to goodness, however less particular, name since "oligo" implies "few". Along these lines the disarray develops.

Neuropeptides

The expression "neuropeptide" is a smidge more accommodating in that it really portrays the capacity of the peptide. Neuropeptides about as neuromodulators, neurotransmitters, neurohormones, and hormones. Research into neuropeptides has blasted in later a long time to the degree that there is an investigative diary named

Understanding Neuropeptides

Neuropeptides whose point is the quick distribution of unique research and survey articles, managing the structure, circulation, activities and capacities of peptides in the focal and fringe anxious frameworks. What is energizing about neuropeptides is their energy and scope. Different neurotransmitters transmit focal anxious framework motions in one bearing and along a way from A to B.

Neuropeptides transmit omnidirectionally outward and can even immediate transmissions in converse. As neuromodulators, they can initiate and deactivate different neurotransmitters. The deductive personality boggles at the potential. The names of a percentage of the neuropeptides may be natural and help you to comprehend the potential of opening the privileged insights of these peptide particles. Neuropeptides are aggregated into families dependent upon similitudes in their amino harsh corrosive successions. There are the Tachykinins; the Insulins; the Somatostatins; the Gastrins, for example, cholecystokinin used to diagnose gallbladder and pancreatic issues; and the Opioids, for example, enkephalins - the figure's sedatives or painkillers.

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Date: November 09, 2013 05:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can MSM Help Improve Joint Health?

What is MSM

The initials MSM stands for methyl- sulfonyl – methane commonly known as sulfur. MSM is white sulfur powder which is organic. MSM comes from the ocean and is soluble in water. It is a food commonly found in meats, vegetation, plants and dairy products. In the human body, it is the third largest nutrient. Sulfur is very important in human body; it plays a very critical role in the production of collagen which acts as a building block of skin, joints, nails, hair and other connective tissues.

What are the Benefits of MSM

Physical strain and Osteoarthritis (OA) may lead to swelling and joint pain. The pain caused by OA can be relieved using MSM. From the research done; MSM is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects.

Many people especially the old suffer from joint disease. The OA affected joints suffer from uneven loading, which results to altered lines of weight bearing. Cartilage starts to form to compensate for the uneven load, this leads to formation of deformities and roughening in the surface of the joint. The operation of the joint inflame is affected because the socket and the ball rub unevenly due to the friction of outgrowths of bone and cartilage, called osteophytes.Up to date no cure for OA has been found therefore, the treatment available only eases the symptoms.

How Sulfhur Helps our Body

Sulfur is delivered into our bodies by MSM in a usable way. Sulphur helps in maintaining the connective tissue structure by forming cross linkages. This therefore means that sulphur strengthens the joint tissues.Sulphur is very important for the good health of the joints.Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are the crucial building blocks of joint cartilage. GAG molecules are held together by the disulfide bonds. As the name suggests, the disulfide bonds are bonds between 2 atoms of sulphur. Disulfide bridges reduce the conformational flexibility of the GAG Chains, hence making the cartilage resilient and firm. Thus the integrity of the cartilage depends on sulphur.

References:

1. www.msmguide.com/jointpain/improvejointhealth/
2. www.i-amperfectlyhealthy.com/MSM.html

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Date: October 22, 2013 10:47 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Facts about Astaxanthin

 Astaxanthin is said to be a carotenoid which belongs to larger class of phytochemicals which is known as terpenes. It is built up of five carbon precursors. It is a metabolite of canthaxanthin and zeazanthin which contains both ketone and hydroxyl fuctional groups. Astaxanthin is a lipid-soluble pigment and is colorful. The color of it is due to the extended Chain of conjugated double bonds which is also responsible for the astaxanthin’s antioxidant function. It is found in feathers of some birds, yeast, trout, shrimp, crustaceans, crayfish, krill, salmon and micro algae. The red color of cooked shellfish and red color of salmon is due to the presence of astaxanthin.

How Astaxanthin Helps the Eyes?

When astaxanthin is combined with omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E then it helps the eyes to recover the watery condition and it lubricates it too. It helps the eyes to absorb Vitamin E by which it then nurtures and feeds the choroid and optical nerve which is behind the retina. This is the place where the blood vessel enters in to and leaves and this is the place where communication between retina and brain are established. The macula is protected by astaxanthin by its antioxidant activity and it also helps in eliminating the free radicals. It helps in reducing the risk of cataracts and AMD. It also helps in preventing the eyestrain and it also decreases its effects. The inflammation in the muscles of the eyes is decreased by it and it also improves the blood flow of the eyes.

Health Benefits of Astaxanthin

It is considered as a strongest natural antioxidant which crosses the brain-blood barrier and protects the nervous system and brain, works in every part of skin, organs and body, crosses the retinal-blood barrier and thus protect the eyes and it reaches inside and out of every part of the cell. It also helps in repairing the injured tissue.

References: 

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Date: March 26, 2013 12:27 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: CoQ10: What You Ought to Know about This Substance?

Coenzyme Q10 or simply CoQ10 is a substance naturally present not only in a human's body but as well as with the other mammals. It plays a vital role in the production of energy. Back in the year 1957, Dr. Frederick Crane successfully used the mitochondria from the cells of a beef heart in order to locate Coenzyme Q10. But the truth of the matter is that, the substance is also present in human mitochondria. Basically, this substance has antioxidant properties which are highly beneficial in protecting the body against the free radicals present in the environment. Below are some relevant details you ought to know about this substance.

Here they are:

CoQ10 in Kreb's Cycle

There are a number of chemicals that the body needs to induce metabolism and one of those chemicals is CoQ10. The Kerb's Cycle is the body's mechanism to convert certain enzymes into energy. In order to achieve that, the body needs CoQ10 to facilitate the conversion of the enzymes in energy production. CoQ10 is fundamental in the Kerb's Cycle as it supports the electron transport Chain in which the oxidative phosphorylation of the ADP (adenosine diphosphate) into ATP (andenosine triphosphate) needs electrons that are exactly delivered where they must be. Without CoQ10, the entire Kerb's Cycle process would certainly fail. The mitochondria of every power cells synthesize CoQ10 so the substance is present in almost all the body parts. However, the heart consumes the most CoQ10 for the reason that it has the most number of mitochondria and it keeps on working even while the body is at rest.

CoQ10 Deficiency

If the Kerb's Cycle fails due to CoQ10 deficiency, the person will feel exhausted and weak. But aside from that, there are other conditions that are often associated with the deficiency such as cardiovascular related diseases, Parkinson's disease and gum disease. Conversely, it doesn't necessarily mean that those diseases are brought about by CoQ10 deficiency.

CoQ10 Dietary Sources

The main sources of CoQ10 include fish oil, whole grains and organ meats. With a balance diet, people can get sufficient amount of coenzyme Q10.

CoQ10 Supplements

Aging is an inevitable process and it can affect the synthesis of CoQ10. As humans grow older, the production of the coenzyme Q10 gradually decreases. It was mentioned earlier some of the foods that are incredibly beneficial in maintaining ample amount of CoQ10 in the body. But people who do not really include those foods in their diet should not worry for there are now food supplements that contain CoQ10.  Some medications like cholesterol meds can prevent the body from using CoQ10, this is when it is essential for one to take a supplement.

Fortunately, with the advent of medical researches and innovative technology in drug manufacturing, CoQ10 can now be ingested into one single tablet, soft gel capsule, hard shell capsule or an oral spray. CoQ10 is a fat-soluble substance so taking it along with foods is highly encouraged.

Who Takes CoQ10 Supplement?

Children under 18 years old are not allowed to take CoQ10 supplements unless prescribed by the doctor. For adults at the age of 19 or older, the recommended dosage in 30 - 600 mg daily. Higher dosage may be taken for special conditions.

Humans need energy in order to carry out all the tasks. Therefore, CoQ10 must be taken daily, whether from foods or supplements, so the body has the energy to move.

Have you had your CoQ10 Today?

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Date: December 27, 2012 12:53 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Coconut Oil for Memory Enhancement

Coconut oil has been widely used for centuries for various purposes. Mainly, it is a cooking ingredient, used for frying and for adding flavor to meals. Aside from this, many nations have different ways of using it as treatment for various illnesses. Countries like Jamaica, Panama, and India believe that ingesting the oil helps prevent contracting any disease and helps in the speedy recovery when sick.

Topical Uses:

People from the Philippines and Thailand use the oil for massaging to provide relief from painful muscles and joints. Other topical uses are for moisturizing of the skin and for the healthy growth of hair.

Since 2008, new studies have been conducted to test the effects of coconut oil in enhancing the memory and to cure Alzheimer's disease. 

MCT (Medium Chain Triglycerides) Benefit:

The most astounding find is the presence of MCT or medium Chain triglycerides in coconut oil in high concentration. This MCT creates a string of processes that ultimately helps in curing neurodegenerative diseases.

MCT against Amyloid-Beta

Amyloid-beta is a protein that forms into plaques in the brains. They decrease the efficient functioning of the nerve cells that then causes the decline in memory.

Most drugs prescribed to Alzheimer patients target these plaques, to dissolve them and consequently see an improvement. Studies done on dogs by incorporating MCT in their diets showed that the levels of amyloid-beta has declined, which is a very positive effect. Likewise, energy levels in the brain have gone up among the test subjects.

MCT to Promote Ketone

One cause of Alzheimer's disease is the inability of the brain to metabolize glucose and transform it to energy. As you all know, glucose is the main energy source of the body that provides it the energy it needs to function. This glucose comes from the carbohydrate that comes from food sources. Without this fuel, the brain cells could degenerate. Fortunately, glucose is not the only source of energy for the brain. It can also come from ketones, which are produced from fats in the liver.

However, the liver does not continually produce this. The human body, being smart as it is, only produces ketones when the glucose level drops in order to compensate for the loss of energy source. This is why people who have cognitive disorders often go on a fat and protein diet to trigger the production of ketones, by lowering their intake of carbohydrates. Still, maintaining such a diet for long periods is hard. The good thing is studies have shown that ingesting MCT has increased the level of ketones in the body, regardless of the amount of glucose present in the system. It is believed that MCT is converted to ketone, thus, providing the brain the energy it needs.

MCT and Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Another study done on dogs showed an increased level of omega-3 fatty acids in their brain. Omega-3 fatty acids have many benefits to the body, including improvement of brain function. They support the effective transmission of energy from one neuron to another through the synapses. This consequently makes learning easier, promotes faster reactions, and heightens memory.

Unfortunately, this fatty acid is not produced in the body and people have to rely on food sources, such as fish and nuts. Studies have shown that MCT from coconut oil induces the production of omega-3 from fats that are already present in the body.

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Date: November 10, 2012 11:53 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Tremendous Health Benefits Of Omega- 3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 vs Omega-6

Several sources of information and clinical studies have revealed that the ratio between these two essential fatty acids in our diet have over a period of time played a significant role in making humans prone to certain diseases that the early humans were not afflicted with.

The raging debate in finding the right ratio arises also from the fact that modern foods preferences lean heavily toward the consumption of omega-6 rich foods . This fatty acid has been linked to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, cancers, inflammatory diseases, immunodeficiency, artherosclerosis, hypertension, blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes and obesity. In the last ten thousand years our genetic structure has remained the same, but with the onset of the Agricultural Revolution radical changes in food habits have created a lopsided diet. The western diet is heavily oversubscribing to the use of the polyunsaturated fatty acids or PUFA, and going low on Essential Fatty Acids or EFA. Living in the industrial societies that we do and in a kind of nutritional environment that we live in, we need to make informed choices about the food we consume is important considering how high- risk western societies are to many kinds of ailments.

Both omega-3 and omega -6 fatty acids are essential for us, but have to be obtained from food as the human body does not have the ability to produce it. Clinical evidence has shown that the Mediterranean diet is more focused on fresh fruits, vegetables, fats from olives, fish, nuts, garlic and whole grains. It has the requisite amounts of healthy fats to combat numerous diseases like coronary condition, rheumatoid arthritis, depression, high cholesterol, schizophrenia, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, bipolar disorder and colon cancer. Astounding also is the finding that our body possesses a certain enzyme that can be linked in its structure and function to these essential fatty acids. These are called prostaglandins.

Prostaglandins

Prostaglandins are the end products of a Chain reaction that begins with the release of unsaturated fatty acids from the cell membrane. It was first isolated from human semen and has found great use as an enzyme based treatment for menstrual problems, childbirth and many other medical conditions. Its ability to increase blood flow has resulted in its use for inducing abortion in troubled pregnancies. However, its over secretion in the body is related to numerous inflammatory conditions and has been found to increase in the body due to the overbearing presence of 0mega-6 fatty acids.These facts can not be taken lightly for a civilization reeling under the onslaught of devastating ailments. Its time to take heed .

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Date: October 24, 2012 07:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Branch Chain Amino Acids benefis?

BCAA's

Most of the amino acids are beneficial to the human bodies. In fact, amino acids are the building blocks of protein, which is regarded as the building blocks of human body. Branched Chain amino acids or BCAAs are also highly beneficial to the humans. Let us have a look at the health benefits of branch Chain amino acids.Brach Chain amino acids increase the protein synthesis significantly. If you are suffering from catabolic crisis, then you could successfully fight against catabolism with the help of these amino acids. If you want to add few pounds of muscles in your body, then you could also depend upon the branched Chain ones as they speed up the rate of protein synthesis.

Once you manage to synthesis protein more than you are doing now, then it is certain that you will add muscles.BCAAs also help in muscle retention. This means, it will help you to add muscles and at the same time to retain it as well. In fact, BCAAs supplements are the one stop solution for the muscle related worries. BCAAs supplements helps the people, who are doing physical exercise to lose fat by making them able to sweat out more at the gym.

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Date: April 14, 2012 08:03 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is Glutathione Good For?

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione (GSH)is a tripeptide derived from non-proteinaceous amino acids. Contains apeptide bond between the group unusual amino of the cysteine group and the carboxylside Chain of glutamate. Glutathione, an antioxidant, helps protect cells from reactive species of oxygen such as free radicals and peroxides. Glutathione is nucleophilic at sulfuracceptors and conjugated electrophilic attack poisonous. Groups thiolare maintained in a reduced state to a concentration of about ~ 5 mM in animal cells. Indeed, glutathione reduces any link disulfideformed with in proteins cytoplasmic cysteines by acting as a donor of electrons.In the process, glutathione is converted to its oxidized form glutathione disulfide (GSSG). Glutathione is found almost exclusively in its reduced form, since the enzyme that turns its oxidized form, glutathione reductase,is constitutively active and inducible to oxidative stress.In fact, the ratio of reduced glutathione to oxidized glutathione in cells is often used scientifically as a measure of cellular toxicity. H2O2+ GSSG + 2 ------- 2GSH H2O.

Advantages of the Glutathione

Before discussing the benefits of L-Glutathione, let's first talk a little about the nutrient. Glutathione is an antioxidant enzyme dominant which is soluble in water.It is absorbed mainly in the liver.It helps fight against free radical damage.The free radical damage is harmful relatives. Glutathione is involved in a variety of other functions in the body.

The function of Glutathione - Benefits of Glutathione

Glutathione works in DNA synthesis and repair, protein and prostaglandin synthesis, and amino acid transport.It helps in the metabolism of carcinogens and toxins.Immune system is improved through the use of Glutathione, and contributes to the prevention of cellular oxidative damage, and activation of enzymes. Glutathione also helps and maintains the functions of other antioxidants.

Glutathione deficiency

There is the possibility of a deficiency of glutathione. It usually occurs during aging.For example, it is seen in macular degeneration related to age, diabetes, and lung and gastrointestinal diseases. It may be the cause of pre-eclampsia, Parkinson's, AIDS and other neurodegenerative diseases.

Where to get Glutathione

Some sources of glutathione include fruits such as tomatoes, watermelon, grapefruit, oranges, peaches and cantaloupe.It is found in vegetables such as avocados, potatoes, spinach, okra, acorn squash, and asparagus.It is found in most meats as well. Other sources of vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, parsley, and not only provide GSH - glutathione peroxidase, but it also stimulates the body to make more BA.Since cooking destroys much of glutathione, you will get more to eat raw or steamed vegetables for the best benefits of Glutathione.

Reduced glutathione is in a supplementation that we personally use a company called source naturals a Natural Product meeting the above requirements.The nutrient content in their signature product - Total Balance.

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Date: March 24, 2012 05:32 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Makes Neptune Krill Oil So Good For Your Health?

Neptune Krill Oil

Neptune Krill Oil is a dietary supplement that is made from the a species of Krill, a small crustacean that is quite similar to a shrimp. Neptune krill oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These krills are supposed to be the largest biomass in the world and are found in the Antartic and North Pacific Oceans. While these shrimp like creatures are small in size, there is an estimate of 500mn tons of krill in the ocean. Neptune Technology has the patent for krill oil extraction and hence the krill oil that is found as supplement comes from Neptune Technologies only. As Krill form important part of the food Chain, especially in the Antartic region, there have been many krill farms being setup for harvesting of krill.

Health Benefits

Krill oil has many health benefits and is used as a dietary supplement as it contains important nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids similar to those found in fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids conjugated to phospholipids and astaxanthin. Lets us see what benefits of Neptune krill oil are:

Blood Sugar and Hyperlipidemia: Recent studies have shown the beneficial effects of krill oil in lowering blood sugar levels and totalcholesterol. Neptune Krill oil helps in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), blood sugar, triglycerides and total cholesterol:HDL ratio. Hence it keeps your heart healthy and fit.

Premenstrual Syndrome: Neptune Krill oil is an effective and natural way to manage the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. It not just gives relief from the physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness and fatigue, but also helps in controlling the emotional symptoms (irritability, stress and depression) experienced by many women during their menses.

Inflammation relief: Studies have indicated that daily intake of krill oil helps in improving the joint health and thus helps in reducing inflammation and pain of arthritis.

Reduces risk of Cancer: Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-carcinogenic properties. Consumption of Neptune krill oil could reduce the risk of cancer. Studies have even shown that krill oil helps slowing down the growth of cancerous tumors.

Fish oil versus Krill oil: Which one is better?

Fish oil vs Krill oil is the most common debate that is becoming popular among health enthusiasts. This is because both Fish oil and Krill oil are the daily nutritious supplements that are loaded with potential health benefits. In essence, both of these oils share same characteristics in terms of their composition and their properties but still the comparisons between these two healthy oils continue. Let us discuss the pros and cons of fish oil vs krill oil and compare different parameters to decide it by ourselves, which one is better?

1. Krill oil contains higher amounts of anti-oxidants (astaxanthin) that are quite beneficial for health while many manufacturers add anti-oxidants from outside in fish oil.

2. Both the oils are rich source of omega 3 fatty acids, but fish oil contains high concentration of harmful metals that can cause unwanted side-effects if consumed.

3. Fish oil is made commercially from farm raised fish, which lacks useful nutrients, whereas krill oil is made from the pristine waters of Antarctica.

Krill oil is nature's rich source of important nutrients. Neptune krill oil is a vital supplement that has many health benefits.

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Date: March 08, 2012 06:50 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Health benefits of Omega 3-6-9 fatty acids

What AreThe Benefits Of Omega-3-6-9?

In order to maintain the normal function of the body, it is important that our diet consists of the right amounts of various fatty acids. These are organic compounds made up of carbon Chains of various lengths, with one end having an acid group and a hydrogen on the end all attached to the carbons in the Chain. Omega-3-6-9 fatty acids are vital ingredients that play important roles in the body.

Omega-3 fatty acids are referred to as essential fatty acids because they cannot be synthesized in the body and must be obtained from foods such as nuts, fish or plant oils such as canola and sunflower. These essential fatty acids exists in three types, alpha-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid each with an important role to play in the body.

The alpha-linolenic acid help to reduce the high risks of stroke and heart disease by lowering cholesterol level and slowing down the production of harmful triglyceride in the liver while at the same time raising the level of high-density lipoproteins, HDL or good cholesterol in the body. They also prevent the accumulation of harmful fat in the arteries and promote the elastic nature of the blood vessels.

Both eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids promote the development of the eye and brain, reduces risks of cardiovascular diseases, and may aid in preventing Alzheimer's disease. A study based on eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids conducted on a ten year period on individuals who had high risk of death from heart disease revealed a 40% decrease in cardiovascular disease and a dramatic reduction in mortality rate.

Omega-6 fatty acids are also essential fatty acids that cannot be produced by the body and must be obtained from chicken, eggs, dairy products and various plant oils such as corn oil, rice bran oil among others. In association with its derivative, the alpha-linoleic acid they aid in production of prostaglandin which plays a vital role in promoting the normal function of the brain, nerve and immune system.

They also help in reducing incidences of coronary artery disease by lowering the level of cholesterol in the arteries. By consuming the right amounts of essential fatty acids, a balance is achieved and both essential oils work synergistically to promote the overall health of the body by preventing various inflammatory disorders.

Omega-9 fatty acids are a class of unsaturated fats commonly found in animals fats and vegetables and are also called monosaturated fats or oleic acids. They are usually produced by the body unlike the essential fatty acids but can also be obtained from various plant oils such as sunflower, olive, canola as well as other mono-saturated fats. Research studies have revealed that the mono-saturated fatty acids may help in reducing the risk of stroke and cardiovascular diseases.

This is because, they have been found to play an important role in increasing the level of high-density lipoproteins or good cholesterol and decreasing the level of high-density lipoproteins or bad cholesterol in the body. They also prevent the unwanted plaque deposits in the arteries and this reduces the risk of developing coronary artery disease. Despite the fact that Omega-3-6-9 individually play different roles in the body, it is clear that striking a balance of the essential fatty acids plus non-essential fatty acids is important for promoting the overall health of the body.

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Date: March 01, 2012 08:53 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Supremacy of Pea Protein Over The Other Protein Sources

Supremacy of Pea Protein Over The Other Protein Sources

Protein is essential for your overall health and it is considered as the valuable source of energy. You can meet your daily protein requirements by eating various animal products such as meat and milk. It can also be obtained by consuming some dietary supplements. Pea protein is a new alternative protein powder, which is manufactured by using yellow peas. This is allergen free, easily absorbable and coming with great taste.

Pea protein is ideal for people who are intolerant to lactose. You can also use it if you cannot digest milk and meat properly. Due to the high digestion rate, this protein is used to complement non dairy foods, pastas, beverages, and a number of meal replacement shakes. You can also regulate your appetite effectively and can reduce weight significantly by using pea protein.

If you consume pea protein before and after your weight training session, you can achieve your body building goal very easily. This protein contains Chain amino acids, which is helpful for restoring your muscle. It is also beneficial for treating some chronic diseases like kidney problems.

Benefits of Pea Protein over Other Protein Sources

Pea Protein Vs Whey Protein

Compared to other protein supplements, whey protein is very popular because of high biological values and Chain amino acids. Your body can also absorb it very quickly. However, it is also very allergic due to the presence of lactose or casein. Though whey protein is coming either without or very less content of these two products, bovine serum albumin, alpha-lactalbumin, and beta-lactoglobulin in whey protein are highly allergenic. The cholesterol content in whey protein is also very high.

Pea Protein Vs Soy Protein

Soy protein cannot be considered as an effective alternative and it also contains high allergens. If you eat more soy protein, chances of developing allergies will also be very high. If the phytates content is not removed, soy protein prevents the absorption of major minerals like calcium. If soy protein has not been fermented, it can contain potent enzyme inhibitors, which leads to the blockage of the activities of trypsin and the other enzymes needed for the digestion of protein. This leads to the formation of gas and the promotion of pathological conditions in pancreas. Once, soy oil industry considered soy protein as a waste product and it was used as cattle feed.

Pea Protein Vs Milk Protein

Milk is the primary source of protein but the milk protein supplements create problems such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, etc. You may also develop lactose intolerance due to the consumption of milk protein. A large number of food allergies, such as fatigue, constipation, diarrhea, etc, are caused by milk products. It can also cause asthma and sinus infections.

Pea is a member of plant family and there is no need of using complicated methods for extracting protein. These are also grown in environmentally friendly way. The defenses of your body can be broken down due to exercise, aging and stress. When you become old, you will be more vulnerable to diseases, infections, oxidative damages, and tissue degeneration. These problems can be solved by using pea protein powder.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2598)

Date: February 05, 2012 08:38 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Benefits of Stevia for Diabetics

No herbal sweetener in the world packs the punch that stevia does. Derived from the plant Stevia rebaudiania, ground stevia leaves have ten to fifteen times the sweetness of sugar, and purified stevia extract has 200-300 times the sweetness of sugar.

Stevia is very popular in many countries, especially among diabetics. Diabetics love stevia for a variety of reasons: its safety, its lack of any effect on blood sugar, the fact that stevia has almost zero calories, the wide variety of products it is included in, and its unique ability to enhance citrus flavors and ice cream.

Unlike artificial sweeteners, stevia is perfectly safe. Stevia has been used in Japan for decades, and the Japanese have very strict standards governing the use of dietary supplements. They have conducted numerous studies on stevia, and no study to date has ever uncovered any harmful effects. Research conducted in the United States and other countries has also failed to find anything hazardous about stevia. In addition, stevia has been consumed for thousands of years in Brazil and Paraguay with no reported negative effects.

Stevia has zero effect on blood sugar. It does not effect insulin secretion in any way, and no diabetic has ever experienced difficulties with stevia. Contrast this with the effects of table sugar and it is clear that stevia is a clear winner.

Unlike table sugar--which is notorious for being calorie laden--stevia contains virtually no calories, which means that no one on a diet has to worry about consuming too much stevia.

There are a wide variety of products available for dieters interested in consuming stevia. Liquid stevia extract is quite popular and can be found in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, peppermint, and more. It is relatively inexpensive, because a little stevia goes a very, very long way.

If you are a diabetic worried about artificial sweeteners but not yet willing to give up diet soda, stevia is the solution to your problem. While usually only available at health food stores and a few supermarket Chains, stevia soft drinks exist. If you can find them, you should give them a try, and if you like them, then you can easily subsitute them for the less healthy aspartame diet drinks.

For those interested in ice cream, stevia makes wonderful ice cream. Unlike granulated sugar, which adds a grainy texture to ice cream, stevia adds no irritating textures and leaves ice cream perfectly smooth. If you make your own stevia ice cream you are going to be in for quite a treat, and even more so if you decide to make citrus flavored stevia ice cream.

No one yet understands why stevia enhances citrus flavors, but it undoubtedly does. It is difficult to describe, but stevia has a way of intensifying flavors like lime and lemon in a way that makes those flavors more delicious. Of course, individual tastes vary, but it is generally agreed that stevia lemon sorbet is a treat par excellence.

Don't hesitate to give stevia a try. This ancient herb is the perfect modern solution for diabetics with a sweet tooth.  

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Date: September 12, 2011 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Aloe Vera Be Used For Intestinal Problems?

Overview

Stomach aches are commonly not known as something that will cause a great deal of problems. More often than not we just pass it off as something that will go away. And most of the time it does and most of the time it is indeed not serious but sometimes when little things happen all the time it could be considered as somewhat of a chronic illness and for us who may not be experiencing it, it would be hard to understand why someone would pay much attention to it. The thing we need to remember though is that simple stomach aches maybe a symptom of something greater and when that happens, it means it usually has something to do with a part of our digestive system or something close to it. One example would be intestinal problems.

Intestinal Problem

Problems with the intestines are almost the same as saying you have problems with the digestive system because the intestines are more than half of your digestive system. It has many manifestations and symptoms but usually the most common are cramping, gas, bloating, constipation and most especially diarrhea. I mean we could dismiss all the others I mentioned and not even consider it a problem but when diarrhea hits, it’s a different story. Now those are just symptoms. In terms of actual disease there is a wide variety of them and just to name a few, we have IBS or irritable bowel syndrome, peptic ulcers and acid reflux. These are not even the more serious conditions yet. So to make sure that we will not get to the more serious ones most people tend to find different ways and other alternatives aside from medicine to help them keep their intestines healthy or provide some relief when the problem is already there. One of the alternative treatments that have been visited by researchers is aloe vera.

Aloe Vera

This plant has long been known for its healing benefits and many in the health industry agree that the number of health benefits it can be responsible for is astonishing in some respects. It has a wide range of applications in the medical world but how will it be able to help with intestinal problems. First we need to know that aloe will not solve all our problems especially since the intestines are highly complex and is an organ with multiple uses. The key of how aloe could be important in intestinal health is with glutamine being available in aloe vera because the cells of the intestines is fast moving and the body needs hormones that will help with cell regeneration. Damaged intestines because of poor cell regeneration will cause various and serious problems.

So that is what aloe will help us avoid. Another ingredient from aloe that can help is the long Chain polysaccharides that will be able to repair holes in the intestines if it already exists. Another benefit that will ease any abdominal pain that might stem from any intestinal problem is the anti-inflammatory effect that aloe has.

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Date: June 30, 2011 10:45 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Dietary Collagen Help the Skin and Joint Tissue?

Collagen and Your Health

Collagen is the most common form of protein in humans and other mammals. It is a major constituent of the extracellular matrix that provides structural support to animal cells from the outside. It displays great tensile properties, which is responsible for the strength and elasticity of the skin. Since it is a component of fibrous tissue, it is also found in ligaments and cartilages that make up joint tissue.

Dietary collagen has long been postulated to contribute to the biochemical composition of cells present in the skin and joints. Proponents of collagen supplements believe that dietary collagen is assimilated into the extracellular matrix and fibrous tissue. The scientific community has been doubtful about the efficacy of topical applications of collagen, but oral supplements have been promising in clinical trials.

Molecular collagen is composed of polymers of amino acids linked by peptide bands, which are too big at the cellular level to get absorbed through skin. On the other hand, intestinal absorption of dietary collagen remains a matter of controversy. That being said, nutraceutical companies have developed formulations of supplements that facilitate the best possible absorption rates and better bioavailability.

Tough bundles of collagen fibers comprise several polypeptide Chains of fibrous structural proteins. All fibrous tissues have cells and extracellular matrix in between. High concentrations of collagen found in cartilages, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and even bones give these fibrous tissues tensile strength, the reason why the joints are capable of bearing a certain level of longitudinal stress without tearing apart.

Structural proteins make up the outer layer of the human skin and its appendages, such as the scalp, hair, and nails. The most important of these proteins are collagen, keratin, and elastin. Collagen fibers are responsible for the tensile properties of the skin. Keratin provides strength whereas elastin exerts an elastic effect. Collagen fibers affect the process of healing and its degradation leads to wrinkles.

Oral route of administration is believed to produce the health benefits linked to dietary collagen. While researchers have ruled out the health claims tied to collagen creams and lotions, they have reported encouraging results about dietary collagen. In fact, collagen supplements utilized in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and treatment of skin disorders have produced significantly positive outcomes.

One clinical trial that involved more than 200 participants diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis point to the medicinal potential of collagen as an adjunct treatment for rheumatism and osteoarthritis. There was a noticeable decrease in joint pain, morning stiffness, and restrained mobility, which were noted as statistically significant. For this reason, supplementation of collagen has attracted more research.

Dietary collagen is now becoming increasingly visible in the nutraceutical industry in that sales have increased in the past few years. It has become the subject of numerous studies well underway, and as such developments in collagen supplementation are expected to produce formulations specialized for higher bioavailability. The good news is dietary collagen has not been linked to any adverse effects.

Get some collagen today and feel the difference it can make in your diet!

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Date: June 29, 2011 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Makes a Good Joint Complex or Formula?

Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM

Joint pain is a common medical condition that afflicts billions of people worldwide. It is brought on by many different factors, though most of the cases have been tied to arthritis. The joints are especially susceptible to inflammation in old age partly due to the fact that cartilage health becomes impaired as we age. The good news is that certain organic compounds replenish the cartilage content of joints.

Medications and remedies formulated to alleviate joint pain have been extensively studied in the past few decades. Analgesics remain the mainstay of treatment for arthritis to this day, but alternative medicine has also made advances. Proponents of nutritional supplements believe that a good joint formula does not only provide relief from pain but also supplies the proteins necessary for joint health.

Glucosamine

Joint cartilage comprises a group of complex carbohydrates called polysaccharides or oligosaccharides that are attached to proteins. In a process called glycosylation, enzymes add long unbranched Chains of carbohydrates to core proteins and form proteoglycans, which nourish the extracellular matrix found in cartilages. In the case of osteoarthritis, the proteoglycan content of joints dwindle with age.

Glucosamine is a precursor to polysaccharides and oligosaccharides. In particular, it is utilized by enzymes to form glycosaminoglycans, which are in turn added to proteoglycans. As a treatment for joint pain, it comes in the form of glucosamine sulfate and glucosamine hydrochloride. It is one of the most promising of all complementary therapies for arthritis as studies have reported positive results.

Chondroitin

Therapeutic remedies that contain glucosamine often come with chondroitin. The sulfated form of chondroitin is a major constituent of proteoglycans, and as such it is generally found in large amounts in joint cartilage in humans. For decades, chondroitin has been used as a therapeutic remedy for arthritis in conjunction with glucosamine as they are believed to enhance the efficacy of each other.

Proponents believe that chondroitin and glucosamine supply the body with healthy quantities of glycosaminoglycans for use by enzymes in the synthesis of proteoglycans. There is consensus in the scientific community that its long term use for the sole purpose of treating osteoarthritis is safe. In addition, recent studies and clinical trials in the past few years have been very encouraging.

MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane, often abbreviated as MSM, is a compound listen as an ingredient in joint formulas. Nutraceutical experts believe that the best joint formula currently available contains all three: glucosamine, chondroitin, and methylsulfonylmethane. While glucosamine and chondroitin provides nutrition for cartilage tissue, MSM counteracts inflammatory mediators that cause joint pain.

Alternative remedies have been the subject of most studies on arthritis in recent years. While analgesics remain commonly used, dietary supplements are becoming increasingly popular among people suffering from joint pain. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM are the most studied of all supplements formulated for joint pain, the reason why health care providers recommend them first.

Grab yourself a joint formula complex and feel the difference!

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Date: May 11, 2011 12:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Potassium: Cardiovascular Health, Muscle Function, Cellular Activity, And Blood pH

Potassium is a dietary mineral required in relatively large quantities in comparison with other minerals found in the human diet. It is the most abundant positively charged ion, or cation, in the cytosol, the liquid cytoplasmic matrix found inside all cells of the human body. It has a special relationship with sodium, the major cation outside animal cells. Together they facilitate cellular reformations and intercellular activities, greatly influencing the development of muscles, the brain, and the heart.

Electrolytes are solutions of bases or acids that help maintain a healthy pH inside the body. Potassium is an electrolyte absolutely necessary for the upkeep of cells. They enable organic compounds to move charges, which is central to neuronal activities, muscle contraction, and endocrine functions. The presence of potassium is also required to activate the catalytic functions of several enzymes. Some of these enzymes are indispensable in the metabolism of carbohydrates.

Powers Cellular Activities

A cellular phenomenon described as membrane potential affects several types of cells throughout the human body, such as neurons, muscle cells, and endocrine cells. Potassium is involved in this phenomenon, powering countless molecular devices found in the cell membrane much like a battery. It also participates in transmitting signals between cellular organelles, creating an electric current that flows between different parts of the cell.

Intercellular communication that induces the release of neurotransmitters, hormones, and other related organic compounds throughout the body rely on healthy levels of potassium. For example, it allows the beta cells of the pancreas to respond to levels of carbohydrates that get in and out of the systemic circulation, releasing insulin when needed. It fuels a Chain of cellular events that lead to many bodily functions.

Promotes Muscle Function

It is not a coincidence that unhealthy levels of potassium lead to bouts of muscle cramps. While involuntary contractions of the skeletal muscles are often associated to older populations, they may afflict people of all ages at any time of the day. More often than not, the underlying cause is malnutrition, especially deficiency in dietary minerals like potassium.

Contractions produced by skeletal muscles are a classic example of physiological functions that necessitate the presence of potassium. When electrical impulses of cell membranes rise and fall at a very fast rate, it results in a cellular event called action potential, igniting a Chain of events that lead to muscle contraction. This is the reason why potassium is important in the maintenance of healthy muscles.

Maintains Cardiovascular Health

Potassium is particularly good for the heart. The cardiac muscle is engaged in continuous coordinated contractions that propel blood out of the atria and ventricles to the rest of the cardiovascular system. A condition called hypokalemia, in which the level of potassium in the blood is low, has been linked to abnormal heart rhythms, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure. Not surprisingly, potassium supplements are used as a therapeutic remedy in the treatment of these diseases.

pH Balance

Potassium has a pH of 14. Taking potassium daily can help you regulate your pH so you can maintain a pH of 7 throughout the day. By maintaining a pH of 7, you can improve your health and reduce the instance of illness.

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Date: April 29, 2011 04:01 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Nattokinase Help Improve Cardiovascular Health

Nattokinase And Your Health

Nattokinase is an organic compound that occurs naturally in the Japanese food natto, or fermented soybeans. It is an enzyme that acts on fibrous proteins responsible for blood clothing, and as such has been commercially touted to work like thrombolytic medications to a certain degree. Its synthesis involves fermentation that results from adding the bacterium Bacillus subtilis to boiled soybeans.

Natto is a traditional dish in Japan. It has enjoyed long-standing popularity among the Japanese people since feudal times largely owing to its reinvigorating effects on the blood. In recent years, laboratory studies point to the presence of chemical compounds in fermented soybeans. The enzyme nattokinase appears to be the active ingredient, improving fibrinolytic activities in animal subjects.

Breaks Down Blood Proteins

Proteases are enzymes capable of reducing proteins into smaller peptide Chains in the digestive system or anywhere in the body. A special kind of protease called plasmin is found in the blood. It is the primary enzyme that facilitates the catabolism of fibrin clot, or coagulated blood protein. Fibrinolysis is the process initiated by the enzyme plasmin to dissolve compacted red blood cells.

Thrombolytic drugs work on the principle of raising the levels of plasmin in the blood. Streptokinase is one of these drugs. It is commonly administered in the treatment of myocardial infarction, or heart attack to avoid complications. Natto has been compared to streptokinase, and oral intake of nattokinase has been observed to stimulate productions of plasmin.

Prevents Blood Coagulation

Nattokinase has been extensively studied in Japan, though well designed large-scale randomized clinical trials are still needed to establish its purported benefits to human health. There is buzz around nattokinase in the pharmaceutical industry especially as early studies suggested that it may ameliorate complications of cardiovascular diseases, notably in the removal of platelet-fibrin emboli.

There have been numerous citations on the blood-thinning capacity of nattokinase. This enzyme is also believed to have an inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation. Thrombocytes, or platelets, are necessary for containing excessive bleeding. However, aggregation of platelets may result in thrombosis in patients with history of atherosclerosis and other disorders of the blood vessels. Nattokinase is a blood thinner that affects both platelets and fibrins.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

In addition to its thrombolytic and anticoagulant properties, nattokinase has been reported to promote normal flow of blood. Natto has been linked to the alleviation of high blood pressure and has seen desirable outcomes in hypertensive patients. Recent studies have shown that nattokinase is responsible for producing antihypertensive and vasodilator effects when natto enters the systemic circulation. It is postulated that nattokinase inhibits angiotensin-induced vasoconstriction.

The Japanese have always believed that natto is good for the blood. Nattokinase remains under scrutiny, but clinical trials are well underway. A growing body of literature devoted on promoting its alleged health benefits draws so much on decades-long anecdotal evidence.

If you want to improve cardiovascular health, give Nattokinase a try!

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Date: April 01, 2011 03:10 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Pycnogenol a Good Antioxidant?

Pycnogenol And Your Health

Pycnogenol is the latest innovation in the antioxidant supplement industry. It makes use of oligomeric proanthocyanidins, select bioflavonoids, and organic acids that have been well investigated in a span of more than 30 years. As a trademarked product, it has been cited in more than 230 published works and systematic reviews that came into the conclusion that it is safe and effective. In fact, it is now an ingredient in over 300 health products.

Pinus pinaster is an indigenous plant species of western Mediterranean from which the patented pycnogenol is extracted from. It is most populous in southwestern France, but it can also be found in large numbers in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Morocco. Unlike new ingredients in some dietary supplements, pycnogenol is all-natural and completely derived from the Maritime Pine, which may well be known in the now-obsolete scientific name Pinus maritima.

Neutralizes Reactive Oxygen Species Fast

Antioxidants work on the principle of replenishing the antioxidant reserves of each cell especially at times when our body is most susceptible to physical fatigue. Radical chemistry has taught us that reactive oxygen species, or ROS, are natural by-products of oxygen metabolism. There is nothing we can do to inhibit their releases, but our body does have a mechanism to neutralize them. Free radicals are one of the best known ROS and they are particularly reactive, causing a damaging Chain reaction called oxidative stress.

What makes pycnogenol different from other antioxidant supplements? It is the fastest-acting antioxidant out there with an absorption rate of only 20 minutes. In contrast with other known antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, pycnogenol is believed to readily cross the blood-brain barrier, expanding its uses in the central nervous system. This is the reason why it has been suggested to be of value in treatment of known disorders of the nervous system. More importantly, it works up to a record-high 72 hours before it gets excreted by the body.

Fight Inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease With Pycnogenol

Displays Potent Anti-Inflammatory Activities

There have been numerous citations that pycnogenol is an effective inhibitor of inflammation intermediaries. It is postulated that it influences the productions and releases of eicosanoids that govern inflammatory responses. It has associated with the treatment of osteoarthritis, and preliminary results are encouraging. Also, it is believed that pycnogenol interferes with the effects of histamine via its receptors, and acts on mast cells responsible for mediator release. This is the reason why it is widely accepted as a viable treatment option for asthma, multiple sclerosis, allergic rhinitis, acute dermatitis, atopic eczema, and other skin conditions.

Contributes to Overall Circulatory Health

Pycnogenol is one of the antioxidants under scrutiny for its medicinal potential in the prevention of major diseases that afflict the circulatory and cardiovascular systems. For one, it has been observed to significantly lower systolic blood pressure, making it an effective therapy for hypertension. It has shown to alleviate chronic venous insufficiency and remove varicose veins. Moreover, regular supplementation of pycnogenol appears to improve performance in endurance athletes.

Pycnogenol is an excellent herb to add to anybodies diet. Give Pycnogenol a try today!

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Date: March 22, 2011 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What is Oligonol Good for and How Does It Boost My Health?

Oligonol is the first ever nutritional supplement to contain low molecule polyphenolic oligomers. These polyphenols are derived from the plant Litchi chinensis, also known as lychee in the vernacular. The name oliginol is a portmanteau for oligomer polyphenol, which is widely touted to display bioavailability far superior to high molecular weight polyphenols present in most antioxidant supplements and the plants that they are extracted from. It boasts the most recent innovation of producing higher biological activity by using the low molecule technology developed by the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Nagasaki University in collaboration with Amino Up Chemical Co. Ltd.

Polyphenols have long been known to create health effects that are antioxidant in nature. These organic compounds have been tied to quenching reactive oxygen species, or ROS, a natural by-product of oxygen metabolism. ROS like free radicals are in fact deployed by cells in response to potential threats such as invasive pathogens. Given the high reactivity of free radicals, each cell releases endogenous antioxidants to scavenge ROS. However, the body’s antioxidant defense becomes compromised with continued exposure to stress.

At the cellular level, an imbalance between ROS and antioxidants creates a Chain reaction termed oxidative stress, which damages cellular organelles and even DNA. This is when antioxidant supplements come to the rescue. Plant-based polyphenols such as those found in teas is widely believed to neutralize free radicals. Those found in lychee are of special note in that they are particularly helpful against oxidative stress. The proprietary low molecule technology of Amino Up Chemical Co. Ltd. processes these already potent polyphenols into more effective monomers and short-Chain oligomers.

Protects Cardiovascular Health

Since oligonol was made available nearly two years ago, there have been a number of studies looking into its medicinal potential. A few of the earliest researches were double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials that investigated its effects on the cardiovascular system. It has been observed that oligonol appears to lower platelet reactivity, contributing to dilation of peripheral vessels. By so doing, it effectively promotes blood flow, which results in an increase in body temperature.

Counteracts Physical Fatigue

Recovery to fatigue induced by physical exertion is one of the benefits of oligonol that have been well investigated. In one single blind, placebo controlled study involving 47 participants, intake of oligonol lowered post exercise fatigue. The oligonol group of amateur athletes between 18 and 22 of age took two 100-mg oligonol capsules in two 26-day periods with a 9-day wash-out period and saw a noticeable improvement in fatigue recovery in comparison with the control group.

Reduces Visceral Fat

Oligonol continues to excite researchers from around the world with the publication of the study on its effects on visceral fat. There are cell-signaling protein molecules released by adipose tissues that are considered deleterious to human health, and thus called bad factor. Adiposity has been tied to higher mortality, with people having larger waists especially susceptible to many known diseases. Supplementation of oligonol has seen a sharp decrease in abdominal circumference and overall subcutaneous fat.

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Date: January 22, 2011 11:40 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Policosanol and The Heart!

What is Policosanol To The Heart

Policosanol is a mixture of the alcohols hexacosanol, octacosanol and tricontanol (mesityl alcohol) and a few others, although octacosanol is the major alcohol in the mixture. It is an extract of plant waxes from beeswax, yams, sugar cane and others, and is used a supplement to lower LDL cholesterol. In so doing it reduces your chances of contracting atherosclerosis, a condition associated with narrowing of the arteries through deposition of cholesterol on their inside walls.

Two studies carried out using policosanol with 22 people over 8 weeks and 437 people over 12 weeks have indicated a 21% and 28% increase in HDL cholesterol respectively, and a 25% reduction in LDL cholesterol in each study. LDL cholesterol is the form that is carried by the arteries to where it is needed to biosynthesize hormones such as testosterone and to act as a band aid for damage to the blood vessels, and HDL cholesterol is the form that is being returned to the liver for disposal.

It is the LDL form that is oxidized by free radicals and deposited on the walls of the arteries, eventually blocking them (atherosclerosis) and causing strokes and heart attacks according to whether the arteries affected were in the brain or close to the heart. If you are pregnant or nursing, then do not use policosanol without seeking the advice of your doctor.

Statins or Policosanol?

Should you use statins or policosanol to reduce your cholesterol levels? High cholesterol levels can cause high blood pressure and heart attacks. Statins are used to reduce cholesterol levels, but have their problems: they can cause depression, memory problems, sexual dysfunction, joint pain, changes in your liver and more. Some people would rather suffer high cholesterol that take statins! Policosanol, a mixture of various plant long-Chain alcohols extracted from beeswax, sugar cane and yams plus some others, is a viable option to statins.

Tests have indicated that policosanol can make a significant difference to your LDL cholesterol levels - LDL is commonly known as 'bad' cholesterol, and is what cause most of the heart disease and strokes associated with high cholesterol levels. A policosanol supplement is accepted by many doctors and medical practitioners as being a genuine alternative to statins, and if statins cause you problems, or if you are afraid of taking them, policosanol could be your answer. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should not take any supplement without referring to their doctor.

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Date: January 13, 2011 05:00 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Krebs Cycle - Our Lifes Blood!

The Krebs Cycle, also known as the Citric Acid Cycle, is an important series of biochemical reactions that are intrinsic to cellular respiration and the generation of energy from oxygen and glucose in aerobic organisms. Although humans can generate energy anaerobically, they cannot do so for long periods and oxygen is essential for life because it fuels the Krebs Cycle. Without this cycle, there would be no available energy to maintain our vital processes.

What is The Krebs Cycle

We shall first discuss exactly what the Krebs Cycle is and then its importance in the body. The process takes place within the mitochondria of the body cells.

A. The cycle begins with the ten-step pathway of glycolysis, during which glucose is converted to two molecules of pyruvate: no oxygen is required for this step. Basically:

Glucose + 2NAD+ + 2P + 2ADP = 2Pyruvate + 2NADH + 2H+ + 2ATP

The pyruvate can then undergo aerobic or anaerobic respiration to generate energy. The Krebs Cycle is the aerobic route, and significantly more efficient that the alternative fermentation.

B. The two pyruvate molecules are then oxidized to two of Acetyl CoA with the release of carbon dioxide. The two acetyl groups of the Acetyl CoA are donated to Oxaloacetate in the presence of water to form Citrate.

C. Citrate then undergoes a number of chemical reactions to arrive back at Oxaloacetate again and the cycle starts all over again by reacting with more Acetyl CoA from Pyruvate and oxygen to form Citrate again. During the cycle more ATP is produced and electrons and other species are sent into the Electron Transfer Chain where most energy is generated.

During this cycle three major events occur:

1. During the various transformations of Citrate, specifically when Succinyl-CoA is converted to Succinate, one Guanosine Triphosphate group (GTP) is generated, which then donates a phosphate to Adenosine Diphosphate (ADP) to create the energy molecule Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP).

2. Over the whole cycle, three molecules of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD) are reduced to NADH that donates its electrons to the electron transport Chain that is responsible for the generation of large quantities of ATP.

3. A molecule of Flavine Adenosine Dinucleotide (FAD) is reduced to FADH2, again donating its electrons to the electron transport system and the generation of energy.

Factor 2 and 3 are of more significance to energy generation than factor 1, and are the major means by which the Krebs Cycle generates energy.

Electron Transport Chain

The Krebs Cycle takes place within the mitochondria, structures that are contained in each of your body cells. Also within these mitochondria are a series of membranes that are very important in the generation of energy.

The major energy produced in your body cells comes from the Electron Transport Chain, a series of chemical reactions between an electron donor and an electron acceptor. Such reactions drive the transport of hydrogen ions (H+) across the membranes in the mitochondria.

The electron donors are species such as NADH, FADH2 and succinate and the electron acceptors are oxygen molecules. Hence the importance of oxygen in the process of aerobic respiration. The H+ ions are driven across the membranes and result in the conversion of ADP to ATP energy. In essence, the hydrogen atoms and electrons take part in a progressive Chain of redox reactions, and at the end react with oxygen molecules and change it to water.

The Ultimate Products

Ultimately, through the whole Chain and cycles of:

Glucose to pyruvate (glycolysis) Pyruvate to Acetyl CoA + CO2 (oxidation) Acetyl CoA to Citrate and the entire Krebs Cycle (reduction and oxidation) Krebs Cycle products to the Electron Transfer Chain Electron Transfer Chain to Water and ATP (redox) Final oxidation of hydrogen atoms to water

Basically: Glucose + Oxygen + 30ADP = Carbon Dioxide + Water + 30ATP

This is not balanced of course, and the ATP could be anything from 29 to 38, though 29.85 is the most accurate calculation to date. The entire process of glycolysis, oxidation, Krebs Cycle and Electron Transport Chain is powered by a series of enzymes and a small amount of ATP energy.

Glucose and oxygen are used up as the raw materials and ATP energy molecules are the product. It has been calculated that the total ATP yield obtained from one molecule of glucose lies between 29.5 and 30 molecules of ATP.

The Importance of the Krebs Cycle to Your Body

Were it not for the Krebs Cycle you would not be able to generate energy efficiently from your food. In particular, the carbohydrate content of your food. Carbohydrates are available in your diet from two sources: simple and complex carbohydrate foodstuffs such as cereals and grains, and fats and oils from animal and vegetable sources. They are also available from proteins, which are composed of amino acids at the head of the molecule with a carbohydrate tail.

Carbohydrates by definition contain only carbon, hydrogen and oxygen molecules, and can be converted to glucose within your body. Proteins can be deaminated and then the carbohydrate portion again converted to glucose. In fact, your body will initially use the carbohydrates in your diet as a source of glucose for its glycolysis to pyruvate, then the fatty tissue in your body, then the proteins will be deaminated so your body can get to the carbohydrate they contain.

Were it not for the Krebs Cycle, your body could not use the glucose as described above to generate energy. The only option open to it would be anaerobic respiration, or energy production in the absence of oxygen. ATP is still generated, but much less efficiently.

Anaerobic Respiration

Anaerobic respiration is basically respiration without oxygen. If there was no Krebs Cycle, then this is the only way your body would have to create energy.

Because no oxygen is actually needed for glycolysis or the Krebs Cycle, anaerobic respiration can proceed right to the end of the Electron Transport Chain. Then instead of oxygen being used as the terminal electron donor, it has to be another species such as nitrate or sulfate. Because the Reduction Potential of these species is much lower than that of oxygen, the amount of ATP energy produced is also much lower.

Your body tries to compensate by producing even more pyruvate and the excess is removed through lactic acid fermentation. Although this also generates ATP energy enough for short-term use, it leads ultimately to lactic acidosis and a reduction in pH, causing pain and vomiting.

Ultimately, if oxygen is not forthcoming, the brain runs short of the energy needed for it to work and you die. There is insufficient ATP generated from anaerobic respiration to maintain human life.

Conclusion

The Krebs Cycle is of critical importance for the production of energy: not just the energy to enable you to run fast, but to enable your metabolic processes to continue. It is needed for both aerobic and anaerobic respiration, and while lactic acid fermentation can be used by your muscle cells as a brief but effective means of generating short-term energy, it is insufficient to maintain the needs of your metabolism.

Without the Krebs Cycle, mammalian and most other animal life would not be viable and the world would be populated by anaerobic bacteria.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2217)

Date: December 08, 2010 05:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Best Digestive Supplements

When you need to decide on a digestive enzyme supplement, it's important to know that not all of them are created equally. Some may contain more of one ingredient than the other and some might only contain one of three groups of enzymes. A leading digestive enzyme complex was studied to see what ingredients will provide your digestive system with the best possible support. Following is the ingredients of possibly the best digestive supplement you can get your hands on.

The first ingredient found in this complex is protease. This enzyme breaks down long protein Chains at different levels of your stomach's pH level.

Amylase is another enzyme found in this complex. It breaks down large carbs like starches into disaccharides and glucose for your body's energy levels.

Lipase, another ingredient of the best digestive supplement, breaks down the fats you consume into fatty acids and glycerol. Cerecalase, another great ingredient, is a blend of enzymes which breaks down the cell wall bonds of nutrients such as phytate and hemicelluloses.

Glucoamylase breaks down maltose into glucose, malt diastase enhances the breakdown of starch and peptidase hydrolyzes protein molecules into amino acids.

Bromelain

More ingredients include bromelain - extracted from pineapple stems, papain extracted from papaya; another enzyme which helps to digest proteins and a last ingredient, cellulase, which breaks down the cellulose and glucose found in fiber. You might wonder whether these enzymes are being destroyed by your stomach juices, but most of the best digestive supplements' ingredients are processed in such a manner that they can withstand the extreme conditions in your stomach. This myth has been disproven countless of times, so it's not a waste of your money to invest in the best digestive supplements.

When you've taken the best digestive supplements, you can expect to have more energy and have better digestion and bowel movements. It is normal for some people to experience detoxification in the beginning stages of taking these supplements. This might feel uncomfortable but it is a good sign that your body is responding positively to the enzymes. Upping your enzyme intake and drinking a lot of water can help you through the beginning process.

When looking for the best digestive supplement, you should look at the enzyme activity rather than the ingredients. The most important thing is to look out for supplements that are acid stable and able to be active in a broad range of pH levels. Steer clear of any ingredients you might be allergic to, like papain or bromelain. Look for what experts call a broad range digestive supplement. The more enzymes it contains, the wider the range of nutrients it will make your body able to digest. When in doubt, speak to your doctor or pharmacist first. If you have specific digestive problems you should have that looked into before trying such a common remedy.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2202)

Date: November 30, 2010 02:41 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Free Radicals and how to Combat Them!

Vitamin C and E

Chances are you have heard about antioxidants. They’re everywhere: in the news, on the internet, and, of course, in our body. The first group of antioxidants that spurred the war against free radicals are Vitamin C and Vitamin E. As early as the 15th century, seafarers knowingly consumed citrus fruits in treatment of scurvy, which today we refer to as a disease caused by a deficiency of Vitamin C. On the other hand, intake of green leafy vegetables results in healthy cells in the body, touted lately as one of the benefits of Vitamin E. Since the latter half of the 20th century the term antioxidants have come into wide use, sparking a series of studies that led scientists and health professionals to a much more well-informed understanding of how important these vitamins are to human life.

Antioxidants and Free Radicals

Two things about biochemistry that have been a part of our growing concern about eating right are antioxidants and free radicals, which you might have learned outside the classroom. The human body deploy free radicals for the purpose of killing harmful microorganisms, but somehow these chemical entities get out of control. It should be noted that most known free radicals are short-lived, explaining how we survive as they are toxic to the body. When not properly disposed of, free radicals are one of the reactive oxygen species that create a Chain reaction damaging everything, including DNA. The problem arises when the body fails to detoxify these reactive oxygen species, and then the latter run amok inside the body. This is when antioxidants come into the picture.

Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Peroxyl Radicals

Vitamin C and Vitamin E are lipids that protect the interior of cells from the outside environment and play a role in storing energy for use by the human body. Different groups of lipids encompass several major chemical reactions in the body, including securing the proper functions of physiological communication lines. In a process called lipid peroxidation, peroxyl radicals go on a killing spree by depriving the lipids of electrons, which continues as they bring in more radicals. The human body make use of Vitamin C and Vitamin E to police the proliferation of lipid radicals in time to deactivate lipid radicals and avoid unwanted effects on cell membranes.

Ascorbate and Tocopherol as Co-Antioxidants

In chemical reactions, the body utilizes forms of tocopherol in Vitamin E and ascorbate ions in Vitamin C. These antioxidants work on the principle of pairing with peroxyl radicals, taking on radical forms, ascorbate and tocopherol, to stop the oxidation process initiated by free radicals. At the molecular level, ascorbate makes an ideal antioxidant as it does not react with oxygen and terminates harmful peroxyl radicals that continue to oxidize. Studies say that Vitamin C and Vitamin E are co-antioxidants in that ascorbate works with tocopherol. For example, when continuing oxidation damage lipids, tocopherol, Vitamin E, removes the harmful radicals, and ascorbate recycles Vitamin E back to its usable tocopherol form.

The Perfect Match

Alpha Lipoic Acid recycles both Vitamin C and Vitamin E because alpha lipoic acid is both water and fat soluble.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2198)

Date: April 08, 2010 04:31 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Agave Nectar

Comments by Craig Gerbore, CEO of Madhava:

Reading through the attack articles and blogs that have surfaced recently one could think that using agave is bad for one's health. These claims are utterly false and misleading. They are extreme views drawn from extreme examples and applied way out of context. They are propagandizing and clearly designed to frighten, not educate. All of the fears and concerns associated with the overconsumption of sugars and calories in general have been unfairly cast on agave.

What is a "healthy" sweetener? One that you use moderately and sensibly.

Health concerns related to fructose and caloric sweeteners are all dependant on the overconsumption of them. All foods have calories and it is the overall consumption of calories that lead to obesity and related issues, not any one food source.

Agave's caloric value is comparable to the other sweeteners in the category. Due to its greater sweetness though, less agave is used compared to the others, so agave actually can reduce caloric consumption per serving. This is due to a higher fructose content. The higher content does not mean higher consumption though, due to the smaller portion used. But, it is not the single serving that matters, it is the number of servings which lead to the overconsumption issues which may result in health concerns.

As a reference point, 9-10 teaspoon servings of agave would be the approximate caloric equivalent of one 16 oz soft drink. With this perspective, is agave really being overconsumed as a choice of sweetener for home use?

Every single health issue which the attackers have tried to associate with agave is really the result of a caloric overconsumption issue. There are no documented issues with normal, moderate consumption of agave or sweeteners in general as part of our everyday diet. For reasons unknown, some have attempted to isolate agave from the real world and real world conditions with the goal of inhibiting agave's use. They play on people's fears, reference false information and fail to address health issues in any meaningful way.

The purpose of this article is to debunk the controversial misinformation surrounding agave. All information debunking the myths and misinformation is based on current science and facts. It is our goal to provide you with useful information so that you can make your personal nutritional choices in a well-informed, science-based manner.

The Agave Controversy: Exposing the fraudulent article by Rami Nagel

By Dr. Susan Kleiner, PhD, RD, FACN, CNS, FISSN

And Craig Gerbore, CEO Madhava

The controversy about agave syrup was manufactured by the publication of a single article on the internet, which has been reproduced and adapted for virtually every other article produced on the internet and other media venues. That article, written by Rami Nagel and published on Naturalnews.com, was highly biased and full of inaccuracies, half-truths and misinformation about agave. Since the Naturalnews.com article has been the sole source of nearly all other popular articles in public media, we want to set the record straight with science-based, reliable information to offer a more balanced resource to those interested in learning more about agave syrup. Who is the author, Rami Nagel?

According to the description on the Naturalnews.com website, Rami Nagel is a "citizen journalist". This means that Mr. Nagel is self-employed, and not employed as an in-house journalist by the website. He wrote and published the article without any editorial or content oversight, and the editor of the website, Mike Adams, makes it clear that the article was not checked for incorrect or inaccurate information or facts. The introduction to the article, written by Mr. Adams, states that readers had written to comment that Mr. Nagel's resources were biased with conflicts of interest due to their financial interests in competing sweeteners, such as brown rice syrup. So even the website editor himself states that the article is not fact-checked, and it is biased and unbalanced.

Who is Russ Bianchi?

The sole resource interviewed for the article is Russ Bianchi, identified by the author as Managing Director and CEO of Adept Solutions, Inc. Mr. Bianchi has clear conflict of interest ties to the sweetener industry. We have documentation of the fact that Mr Bianchi had plans to market a product named Replace. It was to be touted as a low calorie alternative sweetener composed of natural and artificial ingredients! Mr Bianchi was prevented from marketing this sweetener as the result of a lawsuit against him by the owner of the formula.

Mr Bianchi is quoted by Nagel extensively and exclusively. Many, if not all, of his statements are blatantly false or misrepresentations of fact. He is clearly propagandizing against agave nectar.

Was anyone else interviewed for this article?

Yes. Craig Gerbore, president and owner of Madhava Agave Syrup, was extensively interviewed by the author but no parts of that interview were included in the article.

It is important to note that neither Mr Nagel or Mr Bianchi have not made themselves available for questions on their statements since the articles appearance. They remain out of sight and have entirely avoided the controversy their statements created.

What is agave nectar?

The opening line of this paragraph in the article by Mr. Nagel states:

"The principal constituent of the agave is starch, such as what is found in corn or rice."

This is absolutely false. There is no starch in agave. The source of carbohydrate in agave syrup is inulin, a polysaccharide made up primarily of strings of fructose units. Starch is a polysaccharide made up of strings of glucose molecules. They are significantly different, and this difference is why agave syrup is naturally sweet.

The very basis of the argument presented by Mr. Nagel is false.

The Process

The agave plant is a succulent, similar to a cactus. The agave sweetener comes from both the Salmiana agave plant and the agave Tequilana (Blue Agave) which are both organically farmed in Mexico and certified organic by USDA approved certifiers. As the salmiana plant grows it produces a stalk called the "quiote" and when this is removed, a natural liquid called "aquamiel". The liquid is collected from the plant, while Blue agave pinons are harvested and shredded to remove the similar juice. Either can be naturally processed thermally or by enzymes into agave nectar.

The juice of the plant is not naturally sweet. The string of connected fructose units that makes up the major proportion of inulin does not have a sweet taste, but when the fructose units are separated (the process is called hydrolysis) by the addition of an enzyme, similar to digestion, or thermally for most blue agave, the syrup becomes quite sweet. That is the entire processing Chain for agave nectar. There are no additives, other ingredients or chemicals in Madhava agave nectar. It is absolutely pure and organic and GMO free.

? Mr. Nagel claims that agave syrup is a "refined corn fructose" similar to high fructose corn syrup. This is absolutely false. There is no relationship between agave syrup and high fructose corn syrup in any way, including the source of the product, or the manufacturing process.

? Mr. Nagel refers to a "confidential FDA letter" from Mr. Martin Stutsman, claiming that agave is fraudulently labeled. We contacted Mr. Stutsman at the United States Food and Drug Administration, and his response made it clear that there was never a "confidential FDA letter". He did publish a public letter referenced in an FDA document as "FDA letter from Martin Stutsman to Dr. Eric

Wilhelmsen (Wilhelmsen Consulting), May 8, 2000", regarding evaporated cane juice, a topic wholly unrelated to agave syrup.

? He continued in his response to us that the paragraph in Mr. Nagel's article inaccurately reflected the substance of his comments in the document.

This link will take you to the original document in which the letter was referenced (reference #2):

//www.fda.gov/Food/GuidanceComplianceRegulatoryInformation/GuidanceDocuments/FoodLabelingNutrition/ucm181491.htm

In fact, Mr. Nagel fabricated the entire story of the letter. Mr. Stutsman is a lawyer, not a doctor. The quotes were completely taken out of context from the document, and the quotes never referred to agave syrup at any time. Nagel goes on to further misrepresent Mr. Stutsman's intent in the published document by weaving in other inaccurate information that is thoroughly unrelated to the original document. Mr Bianchi's subsequent statements on labeling issues are false and without merit.

Mr. Nagel is clearly caught red-handed. He has misrepresented the words of a government official, lied about the facts, and twisted the information to achieve his own agenda. This strategy is repeated throughout the article.

? Mr. Nagel continues his deceptive writing by referring to a quote by the late Dr. Varro Tyler in his book, The Honest Herbal. The first line of the paragraph is a direct quote from the book. Nothing else in that paragraph remotely resembles anything else found in Dr. Tyler's book. Mr. Nagel is trying to claim that agave syrup contains large quantities of saponins, and that they can be harmful to health. Here is the debunking of that paragraph:

1. Dr. Tyler does not include the variety of agave plant used for agave syrup.

2. The entire discussion is about the use of the sword-shaped leaves and the stem. Agave syrup is produced from the natural liquid in the plant. The saponins are isolated from the leaves of the plant.

3. There is no documented evidence to suggest agave syrup contains worrisome levels of saponins and the entire rest of the discussion about health dangers is fabricated and false.

Sugars

People are going to continue to consume sweet food and drink. There are only three categories of choice to sweeten food. Those are artificial sweeteners, stevia, or caloric sweeteners from natural sources, sugars.

Most people will not choose artificial. Many will not choose stevia. That only leaves the category of sugars. In this group, agave is a good choice due to its organic quality, ease of

use, neutral flavor, low glycemic index and the fact that less is used to equal the sweetness of the others in the category.

The sweeteners in this category are composed of three primary sugars used to sweeten foods: glucose, fructose and sucrose. These sugars belong to a class of compounds known as carbohydrates. "Saccharide" is a term that denotes sugar, or substances derived from sugar. Monosaccharides are simple or single sugars; disaccharides are derived from two joined monosaccharides and when they are hydrolyzed, or separated, they yield two molecules of simple sugar. Strings of more than two sugar molecules are called polysaccharides. This category includes compounds such as starches, cellulose and inulin.

Glucose and fructose are monosaccharides. Glucose and fructose are found abundantly in nature in fruits and plants. Sucrose is the disaccharide formed by the joining of glucose and fructose, also known as table sugar. When comparing their relative sweetness, glucose is the least sweet tasting, sucrose is next, and fructose is the sweetest of the three sugars, measured as 1.4 times sweeter than table sugar. Because it is so sweet, people typically use less fructose when sweetening foods compared to sucrose.

? In the article by Mr. Nagel he states , "fructose is not what is found in fruit. Commonly, fructose is compared with its opposite and truly naturally occurring sweetener, known as ‘levulose' (made by nature)..."

Another fabrication. In fact, levulose is just another name for fructose. There are various nomenclatures used in the scientific naming of compounds. Fructose and levulose are exactly the same thing; the names are interchangeable. It is no different than if you called your father, "dad", and your sibling called your father, "father". He would still be the exact same person. Fructose and levulose are different names for the exact same thing: a sugar found in nature.

Mr. Bianchi also is quoted to say that the body does not recognize the fructose in agave. This is another false piece of propaganda which demonstrates just how far he is reaching. If this were true, it would have no impact on us. He immediately contradicts himself with the claims of detrimental effects caused by the overconsumption of fructose.

Using Sugars

Sugars can be compared to each other in their ability to raise blood sugar levels by using the Glycemic Index. The scale is set from zero to 100, where low numbers do not have much impact on blood sugar levels, and high numbers raise blood sugar levels quickly. Fructose is very low on the scale. Because agave syrup is high in fructose, it has a rating of 32 or lower. Honey, which has a higher proportion of glucose to fructose, has a Glycemic Index of 58. Sucrose has a Glycemic Index of 68, and glucose, serving as the index standard, is 100.

All sugars, whether fructose, glucose, sucrose or others, contribute 4 calories per gram to our total diet. 1 teaspoon of sugar = 4 grams = 16 calories

In addition to calories, sugars sweeten our foods offering a desirable taste and adding enjoyment and pleasure to our dining. During cooking and baking, sugars allow for browning and the unique consistencies of syrups, candies, frostings and frozen desserts. The varieties of sugars, such as crystallized table sugar, brown sugar, raw sugar, molasses, honey and agave nectar, among others, contribute different properties and flavors to foods.

When you add your own sugar to foods you are in control of how much sugar you use. Most people would never add as much sugar as do the food manufacturers. Moderate amounts of sugar can certainly be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet for an active individual. Natural sugars are easily metabolized and utilized by the body, offering a very efficient source of fuel for physical and mental activity.

Of course, sugars should be used in moderation in the diet. This can control calories and help create a diet that is dense in nutrients.

Impact of sugar on health and disease

? The remainder of Mr. Nagel's article works to link agave syrup with the increased incidence of obesity, diabetes, metabolic disease, and the general rise of morbidity and mortality in the population. This is an overconsumption issue involving far more than the occasional use of agave. Here are the facts:

• Rats that are fed a high fructose diet become obese and will develop the chronic diseases associated with obesity: insulin resistance, diabetes and metabolic disease.

• No one should eat a diet that reflects this type of experimental diet.

• Too much sugar in the diet, whether from fructose, glucose or sucrose, can be unhealthy. Diets high in sugar promote tooth decay and periodontal disease; create an overabundance of calories and a deficit of nutrients. This scenario typically leads to weight gain and the development of chronic disease.

• Active individuals can include a moderate amount of added sugar in their diet without negative health consequences. When calorie intake is balanced with physical activity, sugar serves as an efficient source of fuel for muscles, the brain and the central nervous system.

• According to the World Health Organization (2003), individuals can healthfully include 10% of their daily calories from added sugars. This translates into 200 calories for a 2000 calorie diet, or 12½ teaspoons of added sugar daily. Clearly, one can safely add a couple of teaspoons of sweetener to a cup of tea or coffee, or have a little sweetened food without worrying about their risk of developing disease.

• Agave syrup, which is sweeter than other sugars and low on the Glycemic Index scale, is a good choice to include as one of the added sugars in your diet because you will use less sugar (and therefore fewer calories) and minimally raise blood sugar levels.

Just a teaspoon of agave: the healthy use of sweeteners in your diet

We all want to live healthier and longer lives. Diet and nutrition plays a key role, impacting our health and our ability to perform physically and mentally now and into the future. Food offers us not only sustenance, but also pleasure and enjoyment. Food is present in so many parts of our lives: at celebrations, business events, family events, religious and spiritual occasions, sports outings, the focus of our family meals, intimate dinners, and sometimes just the excuse to socialize.

Sweet foods make us feel good. Sugar allows for the elevation of serotonin in our brains, the "feel good" neurotransmitter that elevates mood, helps us focus, and in the evening, helps us relax and sleep.

Sugar is a source of energy for our muscles, brain and central nervous system. Without sugar our bodies will not function at peak capacity.

Too much sugar, however, is not good. In small amounts sugar energizes us, but in large doses, repeated throughout the day, day in and day out, sugar puts stress on the body. The extra calories can lead to weight gain and obesity, which in time can lead to chronic disease. In the short term, high sugar intakes can lead to a nutritionally deficient diet and a sense of being on an emotional roller coaster.

So be selective about your use of sugars and use them in moderation in your diet. Just like all foods, a variety will enhance the nutritional content of your diet and the flavor and tastes that you can enjoy. Since sugars come in different forms and have different flavors, they can be used most effectively in specific foods and beverages. For instance, agave syrup is liquid and less viscous than honey, making it easy to mix into cold liquids like iced tea and coffee, and is great to add to cold unsweetened cereals for a little sweet taste. Agave's mild flavor allows chefs and bakers to sweeten foods lightly, without overpowering the taste of the dish.

Pay attention to how much sugar is added to your diet every day. Read labels so that you know when sugar is added to manufactured foods. Keep the consumption of added sugars in your diet to no more than 10% of your total daily calorie intake so that you have plenty of room for nutrient dense foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, protein-rich foods, nuts, seeds and healthy oils.

Remember that nutrition is a science based on facts. We are making great advances in our understanding of the science of foods and nutrition. Beware of people with hidden agendas using fear tactics to influence your choices. Don't take their opinion at face value. What are their credentials? What conflicts of interest do they have? If they do not disclose conflicts, then assume that they are manipulating the truth.

Most of all enjoy food. Think about what you need to eat to promote whole health. Don't overindulge, but don't deprive yourself of the bounty of wonderful tastes, either. Use celebrations as occasions to enjoy your favorite foods and try new ones. A teaspoon or two of sugar easily fits into the diet of an active, healthy person. Agave syrup offers an organic low-glycemic choice for those looking for that option.

Resources for this article:

Charley H. Food Science, 2nd Edition. John Wiley & Sons, New York, NY, 1982.

Figlewicz DP et al. Effect of moderate intake of sweeteners on metabolic health in the rat. Physiology and Behavior 98:618-624, 2009

Johnson RK et al. Dietary sugars intake and cardiovascular health: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association, 2009

Tyler VE. The Honest Herbal, Third Edition. Pharmaceutical Products Press, New York, NY, 1993.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2152)

Date: February 04, 2010 12:36 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Now foods and GMP Practices

Author: Michael Lelah, Ph.D, Technical Directory, Now Foods

It should come as no surprise that 2009 was a challenging year with regard to the timeliness of order delivery, not just at NOW, but on an industry-wide scale. Many of the brands you carry have not been able to meet your demands.

In 2009 all medium-sized dietary supplement manufacturers, including NOW Foods, were officially required to meet the FDA's new dietary supplement cGMPs (current good manufacturing practices). NOW has placed very high quality standards on our products, and has been certified by NPA's stringent GMPs since 2000. Now that the FDA has started auditing manufacturers in our industry, we have found that the FDA requirements for the cGMPs are more strict than the early interpretations of experts.

This has resulted in ourselves and our industry being less prepared than anticipated, affecting the order fulfillment rates of many companies. We are actively working to respond to this.

Let's review the new FDA cGMPs. Good Manufacturing Practices, or GMPs, are manufacturing control systems designed to ensure that health products are manufactured in a consistent and safe manner. Standard operating procedures, specifications for all ingredients and products, and lab testing are cornerstones of GMPs. The FDA cGMPs are considerably rigorous, and by the FDA's own estimates, 25% of the brands you carry could be out of business as a result of not being able to meet their new cGMPs. Moreover, even for reputable brands, there is a lack of clarity on what the FDA expects, as much of this is new.

You might be wondering what all of this has to do with your orders? We at NOW Foods, along with other reputable manufacturers have increased our quality control efforts to meet the new FDA cGMPs. There are more requirements for ingredients and finished products, more documentation and more testing. The breadth of NOW's product line requires testing of thousands of ingredients. Based on the extensive nature of these efforts, coupled with disruptions in the supply Chain, your orders have most likely been affected.

We are now better prepared to serve you. We are taking the safety of our products to entirely new levels and doing everything in our power to expedite the delivery of NOW products to your door.

Here are just a few examples of what we're doing:

• We've implemented new systems and processes that meet the FDA's additional cGMP requirements
• We've developed a new state-of-the-art screening method for melamine, weight loss drugs, steroids and erectile dysfunction drugs. This is specifically designed to assure the safety of our products while retaining our commitment to natural.
• We've developed specialized methods to ensure the accurate identification of some ingredients that were once considered difficult-to-verify.
• We're expanding our industry-leading microbiology testing procedures and facilities to further improve consumer safety.
• We're working with our suppliers to minimize disruption to the supply Chain
• We're implementing a new stringent Supplier Quality Verification program to further ensure the quality of our ingredients and raw materials.
• We're adding more manufacturing capacity, additional operators and technicians to meet increased demand as your business grows.
• We've improved our order fulfillment processes by upgrading our operations processes. This will better ensure that your orders arrive on time and complete.

Here's what you can expect from NOW Foods in 2010:

• Enhanced security and safety of products
• Improved delivery over 2009
• Even greater product quality
• Receive a higher percentage of complete orders over 2009
• Even higher service levels

At NOW Foods we are continuing to work hard to meet your needs, despite the increased challenges to our supply Chain. We hope and anticipate that as we move into 2010, you will reap the benefits of our quality and fulfillment efforts.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2123)

Date: May 08, 2009 10:00 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: L-Cysteine

L-Cysteine is what is known as a non-essential amino acid, meaning that it can be biosynthesized by the body and hence not an essential part of your diet. Due to its possessing a thiol side Chain, it is termed a hydrophilic amino acid with an affinity for aqueous systems. Because of this it is relatively highly reactive, and is therefore an important component of a large number of enzymes and proteins.

Although, after all, it is not an essential amino acid, deficiencies can occur in the young and in the old, and also in those suffering certain metabolic diseases. Dietary sources include high-protein foods such as chicken, turkey, pork, dairy products and vegetables such as cereals, broccoli, garlic and onions.

The biochemistry of this amino acid begins with another amino acid known as serine, and also methionine. The latter is fist converted to homocysteine, which is then combined with serine to form cystathionine. This is then converted into cysteine and alpha- ketobutyrate. The thiol group is highly reactive and gives cysteine its biological properties.

L-Cysteine possesses strong antioxidant properties due to the thiol group which easily undergoes redox reactions. However, it is for its detoxification effect on the body that the amino acid is mainly taken as a supplement. It is, therefore, these properties that we shall discuss first.

Cysteine can reduce the toxic effects of alcohol, such as a hangover or the more serious liver damage. The by-product of alcohol metabolism that does most damage and is responsible for the majority of the negative after-effects of excessive alcohol consumption is acetaldehyde. L-Cysteine converts acetaldehyde into the more acceptable acetic acid, and so prevents the aldehyde from having too much of a negative effect on your health and well-being. However, the results obtained from such studies have been from animals only, and the therapeutic effects of cysteine have not yet been tested on humans.

What has been tested and is known is that L-cysteine is effective in the detoxification of heavy metals in the body. A common source of heavy metal toxicity is mercury from amalgam fillings in the teeth. Although the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared in 1989 that dental amalgams are a hazardous substance under the Superfund law, many people still have them in their mouths.

The thiol group and L-cysteine has a high affinity for mercury and other heavy metals, as previously stated, and a supplement can be used to remove from the body any mercury leached from mercury-based tooth fillings. It can also be used to bind to copper, lead and cadmium. Lead and cadmium are particularly toxic to the human body, and even though lead is no longer used in plumbing or paints, and cadmium in toys or paints, there are still many sources of these two heavy metals available that can lead to human toxification.

An L-cysteine supplement can be used to remove these heavy metals from the body. Any proteins containing cysteine will tightly bind heavy metals such as lead, cadmium, molybdenum, cobalt and mercury, and allow them to be excreted by the body in the usual fashion. This direct involvement in heavy metal detoxification is a very useful property of this amino acid.

Another detoxification application of L-cysteine is in direct involvement in protecting cellular glutathione levels, and also the prevention of the death of liver cells by acetaminophen poisoning. The latter is of particular interest to many people since acetaminophen is better known as paracetamol, and since this is a freely available over-the-counter drug, overdoses are not unknown. The result of an overdose is the necrosis of liver cells, with eventual liver failure and death.

The treatment of choice is N-acetylcysteine. If used within 10 hours of the overdose it is extremely effective, and even from 16 to 24 hours it is better than other controls. It is believed that the acetylcysteine liberates cysteine which, when available to the liver, enables the biosynthesis of glutathione. Glutathione can then maintain the production of the fifth metabolite required for the specific detoxification of the paracetamol/acetaminophen.

L-Cysteine is also an essential component in the biosynthesis of coenzyme A, an enzyme essential for the production of energy from fats and carbohydrates. It is also a very important component of hair, from which it is commercially produced. Without an adequate intake of L-cysteine the growth of healthy hair would not be possible.

There are several supplemental uses of L-cysteine including the treatment of bronchial conditions for which the amino acid can help to liquefy and clear mucus from the airways and lungs. It is also used to protect against side effects of chemotherapy treatment of cancers and for medical treatments for excessive exposure to radiation.

However, there are certain situations in which L-cysteine should be avoided when at all possible. Diabetics should not use it, and neither should those suffering from cystinuria, whereby large quantities of amino acids, including cystine, are excreted in their urine. L-cystine, incidentally, is formed by oxidation of L-cysteine.

Paradoxically the amino acid is one of the several hundred additives made to tobacco by the cigarette companies. Although, as with the majority of tobacco additives, its purpose is unknown there are two possible reasons for its inclusion. L-Cysteine is a known expectorant, so it could be added to promote the expectoration of mucus in the lungs which is promoted by smoking, and it also increases the production off the antioxidant glutathione that is depleted in smokers.

There are several other non-medical uses for the amino acid, but it is for is its detoxification properties that it is most used as a supplement. However, because it is largely derived from human hair or duck feathers, it may not be classed as kosher or halal in spite of many claims made to that effect, though the more expensive source of microbial fermentation from corn sugar can be.

The substance is recognized as safe by the FDA, and must be labeled as L-cysteine when it is present in a preparation intended for its therapeutic effects. Keep in mind however, that it should be avoided by diabetics.

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Date: May 07, 2009 05:45 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: L-Carnitine

L-carnitine is amino acid essential for the metabolism of fats into a form of energy necessary for extended aerobic activity. Originally discovered in Russia, and Germany a year later, the structural formulation of carnitine, as it is correctly known, was determined in 1927, although it is physiological and biochemical activity was not understood until the 1960s.

The amino acid is biosynthesized in the liver and kidneys from lysine and methionine. The vitamins niacin, B6, C and iron are essential for this reaction to take place. However, the supply of L-carnitine has to be supplemented by the diet, good sources being dairy products, red meat, nuts and seeds, pulses and fruits such as apricots, bananas and avocado. Most of the L-carnitine supply of the body is stored within the muscle tissue. However, it is not unusual for conditions to arise making it difficult for the body to obtain all the carnitine required.

L-carnitine enables fatty acids to be transported into the mitochondria, where cell metabolism occurs. The biochemistry is discussed below, although in simple terms the amino acid allows body fats, in the form of triglycerides, to be made more readily available for the generation of energy required for extended exertion. In this way, body fats can be used for energy and the supplies of glycogen stored by the liver can be retained for emergency use.

By providing the energy for endurance and stamina in this way, carnitine makes use of an otherwise unavailable energy source, and has the added benefit of reducing body fat stores and reducing strain on the heart.

Although there is generally a plentiful supply of L-carnitine available in a healthy diet, supplementation can ensure that a deficiency does not occur. Supplements are available in the form of L-carnitine or its acetylated derivative, acetyl L-carnitine.

In order for fatty acids to be used in the production of energy, their long-Chain acetyl groups have to get inside the mitochondria where they are oxidized to the acetate to be used for the production of energy via the Citric Acid or Krebs cycle.

In order for the biochemistry to take place, fatty acids must be rendered suitable for binding to the carnitine molecule. The chemical grouping with a good affinity for L-carnitine is the acetyl or acetyl group, available in the molecule acetyl coenzyme A (CoA). The free fatty acid, therefore, is attached to coenzyme-A by means of a thioester bond, catalyzed by means of the enzyme fatty acetyl-CoA synthetase. The reaction is then completed by means of in organic pyrophosphatase.

In this way, the fatty acid in the form of an acetyL-carnitine derivative can be transported through the mitochondrial wall. This transportation takes place by means of several steps. These are:

1. As explained, the acetyl-CoA is attached to L-carnitine by means of the enzyme carnitine acetyltransferase I. This enzyme is conveniently located on the outer mitochondrial membrane.

2. The enzyme carnitine-acetylcarnitine translocase helps the acetyL-carnitine through the membrane.

3. Another enzyme, carnitine acetyltransferase II, located on the inner mitochondrial membrane, converts the acetyL-carnitine to acetyl-CoA, liberating the carnitine which returns to the muscle mass.

L-carnitine is the only known substance that allows fatty acids to cross the mitochondrial membrane, and therefore deficiencies must be avoided.

Another way in which carnitine is used in energy production is in the Krebs cycle itself. Part of this cycle involves the conversion of guanine diphosphate to the higher energy form guanine triphosphate. In this way energy can be stored in much the same way as it is in the conversion of ADP to ATP. Succinyl CoA is involved in this conversion, and one of the by-products of it is a corresponding succinate, that is then converted to a fumarate by the action of L-carnitine fumarate. Carnitine, therefore, has two parts to play in the production of long-term energy from the fatty acids contained in body fats.

Since the fatty acid triglycerides contained in body fats are a major source of energy in the heart and skeletal muscles, it is easy to understand how L-carnitine is believed to lead to the increased energy levels required for stamina and staying power. A major reason for its effect on longer-term or extended energy requirements is that in enabling stored body fats to be used for immediate and longer-term energy requirements, L-carnitine allows emergency glycogen stores to be retained for use once immediate fatty acid supplies or those of carnitine have been depleted, and so allows the energy supply to be extended even farther. Research has also suggested that the amino acid can possibly be used to treat liver and kidney disease, diabetes and chronic fatigue syndrome.

As with many supplements, the question is often asked how does L-carnitine work in practice as opposed to the claims made for it by the supplement providers? Recent research indicates mixed results, but sufficient to justify its use. It is generally accepted that a supplement is necessary when there is a deficiency, but once that deficiency has been corrected further intake is unnecessary. However, it is also believed that during long and extended periods of exercise a carnitine deficiency does occur as L-carnitine is used up, and the supplement is necessary to ensure sufficient energy supply throughout the period of exercise.

There has also been a case reported in the Journal of Clinical Neurology (Negoro, Tsuda, Kato & Morimatsu, 1995) where a deficiency, caused by anorexia nervosa damaging the liver to the extent that it was unable to synthesize L-carnitine, was remedied by means of an oral supplement. Studies on endurance athletes have been mixed, ranging from no effect to L-carnitine being found to promote weight loss.

Carnitine has no unknown harmful side effects, and has been studied for medical applications other than as an energy supplement. For example it possesses extensive antioxidant properties, and can be used as a supplement against oxidative stress and the prevention of the lipid peroxidation that is a precursor to atherosclerosis.

Its use in osteoporosis and reducing bone mass is also being studied. The concentration of L-carnitine diminishes with age, and affects fatty acid metabolism in a number of tissues. Bones are particularly affected since they require continuous reconstruction. Without detailing the biochemistry involved in this, administration of carnitine helps to reduce the speed by which this occurs. Trials are so far been carried out only on animals.

In studies on both healthy volunteers and patients with type II diabetes, L-carnitine was found to improve storage of glucose in both groups, although its oxidation increased only in the group with diabetes. Other studies carried out include improving the function of neurotransmitters in the brains of elderly patients and in the treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, and other neurological disorders.

In conclusion then, although the jury is out on the use of L-carnitine is an energy-giving or weight-loss supplement, it appears to be effective where the body's stores of carnitine could be depleted such as with long-term exercise, natural deficiencies or deficiencies caused through age. It is also under study in the treatment of various medical conditions. On balance, it would appear that the prospective benefits of L-carnitine render it worthy of use.

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Date: April 29, 2009 10:18 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fight Cold Sores And Build Collagen

Lysine is an essential alpha-amino acid, in that it cannot be biosynthesized by the human body, and therefore must be taken in your diet or as a supplement. It is synthesized in plants from aspartic acid, and metabolized in the body to produce acetyl-Coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA).

Before discussing its action on herpes, we shall first have look at how Lysine helps with the formation of collagen. Collagen is a protein that is produced in the body from lysine and proline, another amino acid. In fact the primary role of amino acids in your diet is as building blocks to form the much larger protein molecules.

Collagen is fibrous, and forms the connective tissue such as cartilage, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels and skin. Even the external parts of the ears. It literally holds our skeletons together, and wraps the whole body up in skin, so if we had no collagen we would literally fall apart! Collagen is also used by body cells to form the matrix that the body cells use to attach to each other and is one of the most important types of tissue in your body.

It is so ubiquitous that over 30% of the protein contained in your body is collagen, and it is designed for its structural strength as opposed to its ability to take part in chemical reactions as other proteins are. Lysine and Vitamin C are essential for the maintenance and formation of collagen.

There is not a lot of lysine in collagen - only about 4%, but it is very active in the cross-linking that forms the fibrils of collagen. Fibrils are the hair-like structures formed in a triple helix arrangement by three protein Chains twisting round one another. The fibrils are bundled together in a straight line that has amazing tensile strength. The tensile strength of collagen is, weight for weight, stronger than steel!

In order for lysine to take part in this process effectively, some molecules have to be hydroxylated and others oxidized, forming aldehydes. Things can go wrong here, and deficiencies in the metabolic process can lead to some heritable conditions, or diseases of connective tissue. Among these are lathyrism, Cutis-Laxa and the Menkes kinky hair syndrome.

However, lysine is a very versatile amino acid, and not only is it necessary for the biosynthesis of all proteins, but is also heavily involved in the production of enzymes, hormones and antibodies. It is an important component of the calcium absorption process, and also, as previously stated, can be used in the treatment of herpes simplex.

This form of herpes is known commonly as 'cold sores', and is a result of the activity of the herpes virus. Viruses do not reproduce in order to ensure the 'continuation of the species', but replicate. In order to achieve this it requires the help of another amino acid, arginine. This is a common amino acid whose sources include grains, seeds, peanuts, raisins and chocolate.

Lysine and arginine competes for the absorption and entry of tissue cells, and reduces the strength of arginine, so preventing the growth of herpes. For this reason a supplement of lysine can be used to reduce the effects of the herpes simplex virus, and lessen the symptoms of the cold sore.

However, it is not only cold sores but other forms of herpes that lysine can help to relieve. Herpes zoster is a virus that causes shingles. This virus is generated by the reactivation of the dormant varicella-zoster virus left in the tissues after chickenpox. It is a recurrent condition, and lycine can help to reduce recurrences as well as its severity. Apart from being an effective defense against herpes, and forming collagen, the amino acid imparts several other benefits to the human body.

Among these is osteoporosis. L-lysine is involved in calcium absorption in the intestine, and also helps to reduce the loss of calcium in the urine. In osteoporosis we have to try to make every calcium molecule ingested in the diet to be incorporated in the bone structure. L-arginine can work with lysine to enhance the activity of the body cells that produce bone.

Canker sores are often mistaken for cold sores, but they are actually quite different. They are small sores inside the mouth, and appear in the form of very painful ulcers. The cause is unknown, but is believed to be a virus, and lysine appears to help the condition. Although there have been no proper clinical tests carried out on its use as a remedy for canker sores, lysine appears to help, and a supplement is recommended as a treatment by many doctors. It will do no harm, and anybody suffering from these tiny but painful sores will try anything.

Although lysine deficiency is rare, it can occur, particularly amongst those observing a vegetarian macrobiotic diet, and also in athletes who frequently undertake vigorous exercise, especially with too little recovery time. The effects of a deficiency are fatigue, nausea, appetite loss, anemia, slow growth and kidney stones. The latter is likely due to a failure to absorb calcium, that L-lysine promotes, and the formation of calcium oxalate and other insoluble salts in the kidney.

Dietary sources include beans and other legumes, and although it should be available in cereals, baked foods and doughnuts, for example, the carmelization of sugars binds the lysine to the sugar, and so reducing its bioavailability. However, you can also get it in cheese, eggs, tofu and red meats.

If you are taking an arginine supplement, you should consult your physician prior to taking lysine. The reason for this is that lysine and arginine share biochemical pathways, and arginine can reduce the effective concentration of lysine.

However, it has not been tested by the FDA, nor approved, and any use is at your own risk. This risk appears to be very small, although its manufacture is not regulated. However, do not let this bother you: the proof of the pudding is in the eating as they say.

Many have found lysine to be effective with collagen or herpes problems, and a supplement of between 3,000 and 9,000 mg per day is recommended for those with herpes viral infections. It is not recommended for children under two years old. Lysine is available at your local or internet health food store at discount prices. Look for name brands to ensure purity and quality of the product you purchase.

Another Great Cold Sore Remedy is Red Marine Algae!

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Date: April 27, 2009 02:08 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Strengthen The Liver and Kidneys With Leucine

L-leucine is an amino acid that is used by the body to fuel exercise and muscle-building to provide you with that athletic edge that gets you ahead of your opponents. It does so in a number of ways, none of them specifically by the direct generation of energy as such.

It is also an essential amino acid, since it cannot be manufactured by your body and hence must be taken as a supplement or as part of your diet. Foods rich in leucine include nuts, whole wheat products such as wholemeal bread, and brown rice. It is a hydrophobic amino acid, meaning that it does not like water.

It is also one of three essential branched Chain amino acids, the other two being L-valine and L-isoleucine, and offers many benefits to athletic performance that shall be discussed below It also helps to preserve the body's stores of glycogen, used as an emergency energy source. Other than these properties, it possesses others, such as the maintenance of the nitrogen balance in the body.

So how does it work to fuel your body while you are exercising? The answer is not as you might think. L-leucine doesn't increase your energy levels as creatine does when it elevates your ATP (adenosine triphosphate) levels. ATP is the molecule of energy that is synthesized in your body cells, and is then converted back to ADP, the diphosphate, with the release of energy in the form of muscular contractions.

This amino acid is what is referred to as a 'limiting' substance, in that the other amino acids cannot do their jobs in your body unless you have sufficient L-leucine in proportion to them. Specifically, you need two parts of L-valine and two parts of L-leucine to one part of L-isoleucine for optimum usage of the food that you eat.

Therefore you cannot just take the supplement without considering how much should be taken to ensure this balance. Excess will be wasted and a deficiency would fail to make proper use of the protein content of your food.

If you suffer from a deficiency, therefore, your body cannot make best use of the protein in your diet to the extent that muscle tissue will not be generated during exercise. In fact it causes catabolism, or the breakdown of muscle tissue, resulting in a loss of performance and possible increase in fatty tissue as opposed to lean muscle. The only way to build muscle is take in sufficient nitrogen in the form of amino acids and protein, along with L-leucine to put that protein to best use.

One of the major properties of L-leucine is in stimulating the synthesis of skeletal muscle tissue and by using a supplement, the protein balance can be positive after a workout. It has been shown that this protein balance is generally negative until specifically L-leucine is consumed.

The way it works is to activate a muscle-generating pathway known as mTOR (mammalian Target of Rapamycin). mTOR is normally activated when the levels of ATP in the muscle cells is high, and when these levels drop then mTOR is deactivated. The activity of mTOR is sensitive to the concentration of L-leucine, and when the concentration of the amino acid in the body rises it informs mTOR that the protein in the diet is sufficient to manufacture skeletal muscle tissue, and so mTOR s activated.

Exactly how this is done is unknown, but is a fact the mTOR depends upon both L-leucine concentration and also ATP levels. This amino acid also decreases catabolism through a number of different mechanisms, one of which involves increasing insulin levels.

In fact, when insulin and L-leucine levels increase at the same time, there is a synergy that promotes the synthesis of new protein. Not only that, but the response of insulin to the presence of carbohydrates is enhanced, this resulting in an enhancement of your body's metabolism.

The amino acid can also be used to help those suffering from kidney and liver problems because it increases liver protein synthesis. It is therefore a useful adjunct both to diabetics and those suffering from liver and kidney disease.

However, because L-leucine is an essential amino acid with so many important properties, a deficiency can have specific consequences. Catabolism has been stated earlier as one such reaction to a deficiency, and others include decreased energy levels and irregularities in the levels of blood sugar.

Everything about this substance is not good however, and when taken by itself in excess, it can reduce the amount of the other amino acids in the blood, particularly of the other two branched Chain amino acids (BCAAs). This in turn upsets the balance of amino acids, and reduces further the ability of the body to produce muscle tissue until a balanced supplement is taken.

Leucine also helps to maintain the nitrogen balance. It is essential for the human body to maintain a positive nitrogen balance, and L-leucine supports this. In fact, one study has demonstrated that after 12 hours infusion with L-leucine, nitrogen balance was improved by as much as 23%.

A supplement alone is not always sufficient to maintain a positive nitrogen balance. It is generally essential that you rest your body for a sufficient length of time to allow protein to be generated. If you don't take the required amount of rest, a surplus of protein could be used to maintain energy levels rather than replace lost protein and maintain a good nitrogen balance.

A positive nitrogen balance is essential for the generation of muscle tissue, such as in bodybuilding for example, since all proteins contain nitrogen and the net nitrogen intake must exceed the excretion rate. Not in gaseous form, of course, but in the intake of amino acids and proteins. The more positive your nitrogen balance is, the faster you will recover after exercise. It is essential for anabolic exercise.

L-leucine, therefore, is a supplement that can help to maintain your current muscle mass while undergoing strenuous exercise, in addition to increasing it while resting. It offers other health benefits, one being helping to maintain clarity of thought in the aged. However, it is for its effect on muscular build-up and the athletic edge that provides that the supplement is most commonly taken.

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Date: April 03, 2009 02:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Vitamins and Herbs

The whole human body is made up of cells that contain their own genetic material. In a healthy body, these cells divide at a controlled rate, growing and repairing damaged tissues and replacing dying cells. This predetermined rate of cell division is what keeps our bodies healthy. If cells keep multiplying when new ones are not necessary, a mass of tissue, often known as a tumor, is formed. This tumor can be either benign or malignant.

Benign tumors are not cancerous and can occur anywhere in the body. Benign tumors do not cause a threat to health, do not metastasize, and do not grow back if removed. Malignant tumors are cancerous and are usually serious. Often times, they can be life-threatening. Malignant tumors grow uncontrollably, interfere with normal metabolic and organ functioning, and have the ability to metastasize and invade other tissues. If a portion of a cell’s DNA is damaged, the cell can become abnormal. When an abnormal cell divides, it forms new cells that are a photocopy of the damaged genetic material. This ongoing process occurs constantly within our bodies. The majority of the time our bodies have the ability to destroy these abnormal cells and maintain a sort of cellular equilibrium. If a crucial part of the DNA is destroyed and the abnormal cells cannot be controlled any longer, cancer forms. All cancer cells have two things in common: growing uncontrollably and having the ability to metastasize. The immune system does not recognize cancer cells as dangerous or foreign.

Although the exact cause for the cell damage that initiates the cancer process is unknown (theoretically free radical damage causes DNA damage), the Chain of events that leads to cancer is very complex, and each individual body reacts differently. It is a combination of genetic, behavioral, environmental, and lifestyle factors that are thought to be involved in turning normal cells into abnormal cells, and abnormal cells into cancer.

There are also factors that are believed to slow the process, while other factors can speed up the process. Possible contributors to the development and growth of cancer can be divided into three categories: external, internal, and lifestyle. External factors include unhealthy workplace environments and exposure to air and water pollution, chemicals, pesticides, and herbicides. Included in the internal factors include both genetics and infections. Lifestyle factors are those we personally can most readily control, such as diet, smoking, drinking, and sun exposure. External and lifestyle factors account for 80 percent of cancer deaths in the United States.

Just as each of us looks different, each of our bodies has its own unique composition. Some of us may react adversely to what some of us react well to. This is why some treatments prove to be successful for some, but not for others. This is why dietary wellness and prevention is so important. If we can keep our bodies healthy and avoid known cancer-causing agents, we have a good defense against cancer in the first place.

The following nutrients and supplements are designed for persons who have been diagnosed with cancer, as well as for those who wish to enhance their chances of avoiding the disease: coenzyme Q10, colostrum, DMG, garlic, IP6, melatonin, MSM, proteolytic enzymes, selenium, 7-keto DHEA, shark cartilage, SOD, vitamin A, shiitake extract, acidophilus, chromium picolinate, flaxseed oil, grape seed extract, kelp, l-carnitine, multienzyme complex, a multi-mineral complex, multivitamin complex, NAC, raw glandular complex, taurine, and vitamin B complex. Additionally, the following herbs may be beneficial: astragalus, birch, burdock root, cat’s claw, chaparral, chuchuhuasi, cranberry, dandelion, Echinacea, fennel, green tea, licorice root, macela, milk thistle, parsley, pau d’arco, red clover, suma, cardamom, cayenne, ginger, rosemary, sage, thyme, turmeric, ragwort, wood sage, curcumin, essiac, noni, olive leaf extract, rosemary, and boswellia.

All of the above listed herbs and vitamins can help restore the body to good nutrition and help boost the immune system so the body can find and fight back against cancer. Natural vitamins and herbs are available at your local or internet health food store. When purchasing supplements, look for name brand vitamins like Solaray and Source Naturals to ensure you receive quality and you get what you pay for.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Natural vitamins and herbs are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.

--
Vitanet ®, LLC

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Date: November 22, 2008 09:34 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Noni Fruit Extract

Tahitian Noni juice can promote a healthy body in many ways. These Noni benefits are conferred by the phytochemicals contained within the fruit pulp, but before discussing the benefits of Noni let's first have a look at what it actually is.

Morinda citrifolia is also known as the Indian or beach mulberry tree, and is a member of Rubiaceae family. Although it originated in Southeast Asia, it has spread all the way to French Polynesia and the Dominican Republic. It is mainly cultivated in Tahiti for its fruit, known as cheese fruit or Noni fruit.

Although it is a staple food in some areas of the Pacific, it has a pungent smell and a bitter taste, and often eaten either raw or cooked only in times of famine. However, the fruit is particularly rich in phytonutrients, and many people swear by the Noni benefits it to maintain a glowing healthy body, free from disease and many of the health problems from which most people suffer.

The strange thing about it is the taste: you would not drink Tahitian Noni juice by choice, nor eat the fruit, so how were these Noni health benefits discovered? Hunger likely explains it: those forced to eat it through hunger were likely the lucky ones, who actually ate a nutritional diet even though they were eating a fruit normally eaten only in times of famine.

Among the conditions that Noni fruit is believed to protect you from are cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol levels, asthma, cholesterol, strokes, migraines, a weak immune system, arthritis and some cancers. Many of these conditions should give you a clue as to the nature of the phytochemicals contained within the fruit, since most of them involve free radical attack and immune system response.

Prior to examining thee diseases and conditions in detail, let's have a look at the chemicals the fruit has been established to contain. It is rich in dietary fiber, offering 100% of the Dietary Reference Intakes of the Institute of Medicine for each 100g serving, and also contains enough carbohydrate to meet 55% of you DTI needs. However, that is just the start.

The Noni pulp powder contains ten times the DRI of Vitamin C, and large quantities of Vitamin B3 niacin), potassium and iron. The Tahitian Noni juice itself contains few nutrients, and only the Vitamin C is retained to any useful level. It is therefore the pulp powder that offers the major nutritional benefit. In fact, because it has to be pasteurized at high temperature to meet regulations the for liquid product, Noni juice loses most of its nutritional content, and even the 31% Vitamin C content is surprising since that too is destroyed at high temperatures.

It is the high phytochemical content of Noni powder that renders it such an important supplement, and a scan down the following components will give you an idea of how the fruit got its reputation. The known Noni benefits are obtained from:

Lignans: these are phytoestrogens that have been reported to offer a reduced risk of ovarian and breast cancers, osteoporosis and also cardiovascular disease. They possess antioxidant properties and although reports as to their effectiveness are varied, they appear to have beneficial health effects.

Flavanoids: These are phenolics, including asperulodisic acid and rutin. The former is believed to be effective against certain cancers, while rutin, also contained in buckwheat, is a strong antioxidant that strengthens capillaries, and also helps to prevent atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Catechin and epicatechin: strong antioxidants that help prevent heart disease, strokes, diabetes and cancers. It also protects your skin against the harmful effects of the ultra-violet component of the sun's rays. Catechin is a form of flavanoid, and one of the more powerful of the antioxidants needed to destroy the free radicals that would otherwise ravage your body through the destruction of your body cells.

B-Sitosterol: a plant sterol that is believed to reduce the cholesterol in your blood, but still requires scientific proof, even though there is plenty of evidence to support its effect. Plant sterols are the basis of the cholesterol-lowering yoghurt drinks that you can but in your local supermarket.

This list is not exclusive, and there are several other phytochemicals found in Noni pulp powder that are believed to confer significant health benefits, but that are still seeking scientific support. The fact that such support has yet to be provided is not a reason to doubt their effectiveness, although the above benefits are sufficient to justify the reputation of this nutritional supplement that few have heard about.

There have been only around 110 reports on Noni research since the 1950s, so it is not surprising that the scientific proof is weak, although of these around 100 have appeared since the year 2000. Don't forget that there was no proof for the effectiveness of penicillin until it was discovered!

Even the biochemistry of the components of Tahitian Noni juice, such as the polysaccharides not mentioned in the above list, is in the early stages of research, and an increasing number of traditional remedies are being found to have a valid scientific and medical basis. These polysaccharides are a form of dietary fiber with probiotic properties that can be fermented by bacteria in the gut to form short Chain fatty acids that possess many beneficial health properties.

Take the heterocyclic iridoids, for example. These are unknown to most people, yet they are found in many plants that have extensive medicinal properties, and might be responsible for many of them. They appear to possess anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antispasmodic properties, and support the cardiovascular system, the immune system and help to maintain a healthy blood sugar level. These are also contained in Noni pulp powder.

Another component of Noni fruit that most people have not heard of is damnacanthal. This inhibits certain tyrosine kinesis that basically have a controlling effect on the division of body cells. They particularly inhibit the Ras genes, responsible for some cancers due to uncontrolled cell division. Damnacanthal can prevent Ras genes from causing these cancers.

There are many more benefits that Tahitian Noni juice, or particularly the powdered Noni pulp, can confer, and it is recommended that it be taken as a supplement by anybody needing a general health tonic since it possesses such a wide variety of beneficial properties. The Noni benefits which those that use it enjoy area available to everyone, even though it is one of the lesser known of the beneficial health supplements.

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Date: October 03, 2008 10:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Chlorella

A lot of us eat without really thinking about the food that we are putting into our bodies. This is extremely unfortunate because diet is crucial to human health. A good diet depends on choosing what to eat and how much to eat, because otherwise food can actually harm someone. People’s food choices in Japan have significantly changed in recent years, with the Japanese diet becoming more and more like the American and European diet, leading to an increase in various diseases that are associated with the Western diet increasing in Japan. This new Japanese diet is high in protein and fat and low in fiber, just the way the Western diet is.

These dietary changes have caused an increase in body fat, sticky blood, damaged blood vessel walls, and rise in dietary-related diseases like hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipemia, cancer, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease. These diseases are abundant in Western countries, with the number one cause of death in the United States being heart disease. It has been found that the main cause of death in many advanced countries is related to diet.

Chlorella has the ability to prevent diseases that are caused by diet. Chlorella is a type of algae, the very origin of the food Chain, and is a highly regarded health-food supplement for use in maintaining the human body. Introduced to the health-food marketplace about 40 years ago, chlorella was first established in Japan and today is produced by Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and Indonesia.

Not only is it used for health-food supplementation, but also in processed foods, food additives, medication additives, marine feeds, feed additives, and fertilizers. Chlorella is helpful in supplementing nutrients of high-quality, plant-based proteins, vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll, and antioxidants. It has been shown to help lower cholesterol, regulate the intestines, detoxify the body, lower blood pressure, and regulate the immune system, In short, chlorella helps the human body to maintain balance.

It is likely that Chlorella appeared on the Earth many thousands of years ago. It is a fresh-water, one-celled green algae that can be found widely in lakes and marshes throughout the world. This plant was discovered and named by M.W. Beyerinck of Holland in 1890. In size, chlorella is 2 to 10 microns, which is slightly smaller than a red blood cell. It is an ancestor of such vegetables as spinach and pumpkins. As compared to other plants, chlorella has a high concentration of chlorophyll, making its capability for photosynthesis many times higher than that of other plants. Because of its high-quality, plant-based protein, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, chlorella is able to maintain human health and prevent and treat disease.

Diseases including hyperlipemia, hypertension, diabetes, arteriosclerosis, heart disease, stroke, and cancer are closely related to diet. Heredity, aging, and environmental factors including chemical substances and stress are also all liked to the above diseases. These diseases are on the rise in advanced countries, with a lot of them being the most prevalent causes of death in many countries. To prevent diet-related illnesses, the diet must be balanced and lowered immune function must be improved.

The body also needs to be protected from health-threatening chemical substances and stress. Scientists have found that Chlorella is effective for balancing the diet, improving lowered cell function and resistance, and detoxifying chemicals and alleviating stress. Many diet-related diseases can be prevented and treated by simply adding Chlorella to ones diet.

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Date: October 02, 2008 09:36 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Glucosamine Sulfate

It is possible to rebuild joint cartilage with glucosamine sulfate, although how quickly that occurs could depend upon what you take with it. First, though, an understanding of exactly why cartilage deteriorates will be useful in your understanding of how glucosamine sulfate can help towards repairing the damage.

Cartilage has several roles to play in your body, an example of which is to form curved body parts that would otherwise be unsupported, such as the external contours of your ears or a large part of your nose. Without cartilage you ears and nose would flop around a lot, and it is also contained in the spine, to prevent your discs from grinding against each other.

However, the part that we are interested in is as a shock absorber between the bones of your joints. It allows bones to slide over one another without damage, either through friction or shock, and is also nature’s shock absorber, helping to support your weight while you are active. Thus, your cartilage protects from impact damage when you are running or jumping down from a height. This type of cartilage, known as articular cartilage, is bathed in a lubricating fluid known as synovial fluid, which introduces its own problems when your cartilage becomes damaged.

This damage can occur in several ways: as the result of a fall, for example, or direct contact with the joint when playing a physical contact sport such as football or soccer. It can also become damaged through wear and tear over a period of time, such with long distance runners or soccer players (again), and is also associated with age. Many years of continual use, especially amongst those with active rather than sedentary occupations, eventually lead to wear and damage.

Problems with the joint structure itself, known as osteoarthritis, can also damage the cartilage, as can being overweight for a lengthy period. You can also experience cartilage damage if you are bedridden or other wise immobile for long periods, because the cartilage needs regular movement to function correctly. This is connected with the blood supply, which will be discussed shortly.

Cartilage is constructed of cells known as chondrocytes that generate a fibrous matrix known as collagen, a mixture of amino acids known as elastin that allows the cartilage to return to its original shape after deformation, and non-collagenous matrix tissue containing proteins, water and proteoglycans that contain sulfated glycosaminoglycan Chains. That last mixture is often referred to as ‘ground substance.’

One of the problems with cartilage is its lack of a direct blood supply, and it relies on the compression and decompression of the articular cartilage, or on the flexing of elastic cartilage, to create a pumping action that drives blood to the chondrocytes. This is why inactivity can cause cartilage damage, due to a lack of blood supply, and why it is repaired more slowly than other body components.

Once an injury or wear and tear damages a joint, the body’s natural defense, the immune system, is activated, and the major part of that involved in cartilage damage is the inflammatory response. The joint becomes inflamed, the quantity of synovial fluid is increased to provide more protection and swells the joint, and enzymes (hyaluronidase) are produced which, although part of the natural defense system, actually degrade the synovial fluid and the cartilage.

This increases the amount of inflammation and the process becomes self-perpetuating, leading to the condition known as degenerative joint disease (DJD) because the body is unable to produce enough glucosamine to generate the proteoglycan needed for repair.

This is where glucosamine sulfate enters the scene. Glucosamine is a precursor for glycosaminoglycans (GAG), which as mentioned as above are components of proteoglycans in the cartilage matrix ground tissue. It has been shown to stimulate the biosynthesis of proteoglycan, and analysis has shown its presence within articular cartilage after administering it orally to patients with cartilage disease. It therefore makes its way to the right place.

Glucosamine is administered in the form of glucosamine sulfate, the highly electrically charged sulfate groups believed to aid in the compression properties of cartilage. It is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream, although only about a quarter of the oral dose is eventually available to the body, and high concentrations accumulate in the liver, kidneys and in articular cartilage where it is used in the biosynthesis of GAG.

When in solution, glucosamine sulfate separates into ions: sulfate and glucosamine. Glucosamine ions are involved in the synthesis of GAG, that then combine with proteins to form proteoglycans, a component of the non-collagenous matrix of the cartilage. Although glucosamine is the major active component, there is evidence that the sulfate group contributes the stability of the matrix of the connective tissue since the uptake of sulfate ions increases with the amount of glucosamine sulfate used.

Another consideration here is that sulfate is an important part of proteoglycans, and glucosamine sulfate promotes not only the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, but also of proteoglycans in general. Glucosamine is also active in regenerating the lubricating properties of the synovial fluid, and in hindering the activity of hyaluronidase, the enzyme that breaks down the hyaluronic acid in the synovial fluid.

Some people find that glucosamine, taken either alone or in conjunction with chondroitin sulfate and/or methyl sulfonyl methane (MSM), is more effective than the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to reduce inflammation (e.g. Aspirin and Ibuprofen) and without the side effects of these substances. MSM contains dietary sulfur, which is necessary for cell structure and healthy cell repair. Methyl sulfone methane is know to be beneficial for painful conditions such as arthritis, and also improves the blood circulation. It might also play a part in helping glucosamine sulfate get to the site of the cartilage damage.

Glucosamine is a large molecule, however, and finds it difficult to make its way to the area around the joint due to the lack of a direct blood supply. It is therefore taken in relatively large doses to ensure that sufficient amounts get to where it is needed. Many people insist that glucosamine sulfate is very effective in reducing, or even eliminating, their pain, and it is finding increasing popularity in the treatment of arthritis and other conditions involving cartilage damage.

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Date: September 26, 2008 11:36 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hoodia Extract And Appetite

Hoodia is a plant that belongs to the milkweed family and consists of about twenty different species. It is a leafless, spiny plant, with fleshy finger-like stems. Along the stems, there are rows of thorns, while the plant bears flesh-colored flowers. Flies are attracted to the flowers by the strong smell of decaying meat, causing the flies to lay their eggs and pollinate the flowers. Sometimes spelled hootia, hodia, hoodie, and hudia, hoodia has recently gained a great amount of attention in the United Kingdom and America after being featured on BCC and CBS. Often growing in summer rainfall areas in Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, along with winter rainfall areas in Nambia, hoodia gordonii is the only species that contains the chemical component that suppresses appetite.

Hoodia has been used for thousands of years by San Bushmen, as it populates the arid territories of South Africa and Namibia. Because San Bushmen needed to remain active in order to survive, they had little need for dieting, but this plant provided them with stamina and a curbed appetite during long periods without food. Along with reducing or eliminating the desire for food, many people believe that hoodia also increases energy and can act as an aphrodisiac on the user.

The appetite-suppressing ingredient found in hoodia is a molecule that is similar to, but stronger than glucose. The active compound that was isolated to be responsible for appetite suppression is P57, which works by sending a signal to the hypothalamus of the brain, tricking the body into thinking that it is no longer hungry, and resulting in a complete lack of appetite. P57 is a steroid like molecule that is chemically bonded to a Chain of three sugar molecules. The appetite-suppressing and mood-enhancing properties of P57 go directly to the mid-brain, where it causes neuron cells to fire as if you were full.

The hypothalamus is the region of the brain that contains several important centers which control body temperature, thirst, hunger, water balance, and sexual function. Additionally, the hypothalamus is closely connected with emotional activity and sleep and also functions as a center for the integration of hormonal and autonomic nervous activity through the control of pituitary secretions. In short, the hypothalamus links the nervous system to the endocrine system. The pituitary gland is often thought of as the mater gland in our bodies, as the anterior and posterior pituitary secrete a variety of hormones that influence all cells and affect almost all physiological processes.

The pituitary gland is powered by the hypothalamus, as some of the neurons in the hypothalamus secrete the hormones that are responsible for controlling the secretion of hormones from the anterior pituitary. The inhibiting and releasing hormones of the hypothalamus are carried directly to the anterior pituitary where hypothalamic hormones bind to receptors on anterior pituitary cells.

The P57 hormone that is found in hoodia works by increasing the amount of ATP in nerve cells found in the hypothalamus. ATP is an energy-producing molecule that is formed from glucose. When there are increased levels of ATP in hypothalamic nerve cells, those nerve cells fire as if you had just eaten, even when you haven’t. Hoodia is a safe herb taken for hundreds of years, have you tried Hoodia lately?



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Date: September 16, 2008 08:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Essential Fatty Acids

A lot of people tend to shy away from anything that has the word fatty involved with it, thinking that it will cause them to gain unnecessary weight. What a lot of people don’t know is that there are good fats and bad fats. The beneficial ones actually can help decrease the desire for food and for harmful fats. Fats are essential to health, as they help to balance the body’s chemistry and provide padding for the vital organs in the body. Fats give a source of energy for body processes and also help with the transportation and absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are all fat soluble.

There are three main categories of fats: saturated fats, unsaturated fats, and essential fats. Saturated fats are made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen molecules. The carbon atoms from fatty acids hold together in a Chain-like fashion and they can attach a hydrogen atom to them. When each potential place for a hydrogen atom has been filled and there is no more room for any more hydrogen atoms, these fats are considered saturated. The fat will be harder or thicker in consistancy the longer the Chain.

These types of fatty acids are found in red meat, butter, cheese, sour cream, palm kernel, and coconut oils. When someone has a diet that is high in saturated fats, these fats clump together in the body and form deposits that lodge in cells, organs, and blood vessels and can lead to many health problems like obesity, heart disease, and breast and colon cancer.

Unsaturated fats are called this because at least two adjacent carbon atoms on a Chain are not attached to hydrogen atoms. When at least two pairs of carbon atoms are empty, it is known as a polyunsaturated fatty acid. The more saturated the fat, the more easily it will stay hard at room temperature.

Essential fatty acids are crucial nutritional compounds that our bodies need in order to perform many functions. They can be found in the seeds of plants and in the oils of cold-water fish. Essential fatty acids can not be made in the body, so they must be found in a supplement or in the diet. Many factors, which include stress, allergies, disease, and diet high in fried foods, can increase the body’s need for essential fatty acids.

Fatty acids are the basic building blocks of all fats. A fatty acid is considered essential if the body is unable to synthesize it and the only way it can be obtained is through diet. Additionally, it is considered essential if a deficiency will cause disease. A deficiency of fatty acids can cause poor reproduction, lowered immunity, rough and dry skin, and slow growth.

Essential fatty acids are vital for many functions including: lowering triglyceride levels; helping to eradicate plaque from the walls of arteries; lowering blood pressure; altering the production of leukotrienes; constructing body membranes; helping strengthen cell and capillary structures; prolonging blood-clotting time, which helps wounds to heal; helping the body manufacture hemoglobin; assisting in the manufacture of cholesterol; preventing the growth of bacteria and viruses assisting in the functions of glands and hormones.

Essential fats nourish the skin, hair, and nails; increasing the rate at which the body burns fat; helping the body maintain proper temperature; assisting in the body’s production of electrical currents that are vital for a regular heartbeat; and acting as a precursor to the production of prostaglandins. It is essential that everybody obtain good fat in their diet to maintain health, if one can not eat the proper foods, supplement forms of essential fatty acids are available.



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Date: August 25, 2008 07:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Gac Fruit Oil

Most people have never heard of gac fruit, yet it is very popular in South East Asia, particularly in China and Vietnam. The fruit is grown on vines that reach the size of a cantaloupe and from North East Australia across to China and Vietnam it is used as both a food and a medicine. It is only fairly recently that it has found use in the West as a health food

So what’s so special about this fruit, known also as baby jackfruit and sweet gourd? Its bright red color should provide a clue, since it is jam packed full of beta carotene, lycopene and other strong antioxidants that not only helps to support the immune system, but also helps to retard the effects of aging. It has been used in Vietnam in particular to overcome the effects of an endemic deficiency in vitamin A, and is rich in provitamin A carotenoids. It is also widely used in Chinese medicine to treat a variety of complaints.

Antioxidants and Free Radicals

Antioxidants can boost health in a number of ways, and it might help you understand better the benefits that gac fruit can provide to explain what antioxidants do and why they are such an essential part of our diets. Every millisecond of every day of our lives, our natural metabolism of the conversion of blood glucose to energy generates small oxygenated molecules known as free radicals.

Free radicals are molecules that possess an unpaired electron and are highly unstable. Electrons generally travel in pairs, and when one of that pair is lost through a chemical reaction, the other electron has only one purpose in its short life: to pair up with another electron and it will do whatever it has to in order to achieve that. It is called a free radical, and its life is short. Free radicals destroy body cells, and this can have a dramatic effect, both visually on your skin, and internally on your general health.

Apart from those generated by your body’s own biochmemistry, free radicals are present in car emissions and other pollutants such as pesticides, smog and fried and barbecued foods. They are also formed in your skin by excessive exposure to the UV component of the sun’s radiation. That is why the skin of those living in hot climates tends to age earlier.

Free radicals are what make you look older as you grow older: they destroy skin cells as they are formed, but that is one of the least of their effects. They can also oxidize low density lipids (LDL) that carry cholesterol around your body, causing it to deposit fatty plaques on the walls of your arteries, which is a serious cardiovascular condition known as atherosclerosis.

Antioxidants can donate an electron to free radicals without then becoming free radicals themselves, and so destroy them as they are formed. However, the antioxidant can then lose its reducing power. Free radicals do not roam the blood seeking victims as many imagine them to, but react almost instantly, as soon as they are formed. It is important, therefore, that antioxidants are present in or close to every cell of your body. To achieve this, they must be bound to a fatty molecule, and the problem with many phytonutrients is that they have no associated fats or oils to carry them into the fatty tissues of the body.

Nutritional Constituents of Gac Fruit

Not so with gac fruit, because in addition to the beta carotene and lycopene content, it is also rich in long-Chain fatty acids, particularly linoleic and alpha linoleic acids. Not only that, but its beta carotene content is around ten times that of carrots, and it contains 70 times the lycopene of tomatoes! Vitamin C is another very powerful antioxidant, and gac contains 60 times the Vitamin C of oranges. It is also rich in other free radical busters, such as xeoxanthins and alpha-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E.

Altogether, gac fruit contains a free radical killing arsenal that should be enough to scare even the most courageous free radical back to where it came from. Other constituents of gac are numerous minerals, particularly zinc and iron.

That is why the sweet gourd is such a prized fruit, and why Southeast Asian women have skins that western women of the same age would die for! Antioxidants help to prevent the disruption and destruction of skin cells that are the major reason for aging looks, and why skin creams are packed with vitamins A and E, both strong antioxidants.

Health Benefits of Gac

Most of the health benefits of gac are provided by its antioxidant properties. Thus, if you have a high cholesterol level, gac can help you to avoid atherosclerosis by preventing the oxidation of the LDL cholesterol, which is the precursor to it depositing on your artery walls. The body needs cholesterol, but levels should be kept to within certain limits or the resultant atherosclerosis can narrow your arteries leading to cardiac problems and strokes, particularly in the very narrow arteries of the brain.

Gac also supports the immune system and helps to maintain prostate health, largely through its alpha tocopherol, or vitamin E content. Vitamin E is easily destroyed by free radicals, which is where the beta carotene is of benefit. This is the body’s first line of defense against free radicals, and each molecule can neutralize up to 20 free radical molecules before it is destroyed. This helps to save other antioxidants such as vitamin E.

Lycopene is particularly beneficial to the prostate and current research indicates that it can help to prevent prostate cancer and cardiovascular disease, plus some other diseases such as macular degeneration that affects your sight. Perhaps this is one reason why the gac fruit membranes are used in Vietnam to promote healthy vision, and they also help to cure dry eyes. Lycopene remains in your body fat longer than normal beta carotene, and recent studies have found that men with high amounts of lycopene in their body fat are up to 50% less likely to suffer heart attacks as those with low amounts.

Gac fruit is jam-packed full of nutrients and antioxidants, and has no known side effects. It is used in Asia for weddings and other special occasions, and is grown on lattices in many gardens, although it has a short season. However, gac fruit is not known as the “Fruit from Heaven” for no reason, and if you were allowed the choice of only one fruit in your life, then this would be the one.

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Date: August 18, 2008 12:01 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Coconut Oil

Whether coconut oil is good for weight loss or not, it is becoming an increasingly popular component of a weight loss diet. So how justified is this in view the fact that fats and oils are not normally regarded as being the best form of food to take if you want to lose weight?

Apart from any other considerations, fats are actually very important components of any diet. Consider, for example, how many vitamins are fat soluble: vitamins A, D, E and K are all fat soluble, and without fats in your diet vitamins would not be able to circulate and be taken to where they do most good. Fats are also essential building blocks for hormones and cell membranes. In short, you cannot survive without fats. Coconut oil is a fat.

In referring to coconut oil here, we are discussing virgin oil, not the refined form that is high in cholesterol. Refined, or processed coconut oils, is hydrogenated, which renders it more in nature to the longer Chain fatty acids. Virgin coconut oil contains what are known as medium Chain fatty acids (MCFA), which are easily metabolized by your liver into energy.

The longer Chain fatty acids, also called triglycerides, are not easily broken down into smaller components, and tend to be stored in the body as fat. This fat can be particularly dangerous if stored round the midriff, and so long Chain fatty acids are dangerous to your health. This does not apply to MCFAs, and a possible mechanism for this is discussed later.

An inability to distinguish between the different types of fats and oils in your diet is largely due to a lack of education in the chemistry of fats, and the lumping together of all fats and oils under the 'fatty' flag. Perhaps it is the use of the word 'fat' for the overweight condition and the fact that the triglycerides and other chemicals are known generically as 'fats' that triggers a connection between the two, but although this is logical, and in some cases justified, it is not always the case. There are fats and fats, just as there are lubricating oils and greases, and edible cooking oils and greases.

The fatty acids in coconut oil are composed of relative small carbon Chain lengths. Caprylic acid and capric acid contain 8 and 10 carbon atoms in the backbone compared to the 18 of the stearic acid that is commonly contained in animal fats. The longer the carbon Chain in the molecule, the more difficult it is to break down, and the more likely it is to be stored in the body as a dense fatty deposit that places a strain on the heart.

Due to the shorter Chain length the medium Chain fatty acids hold less energy per unit weight. Apart from any other reasons then, coconut oil contains fewer calories than other fats and so if used as the bulk of your fat requirement, will be less liable to generate body fat. Not only that, but as inferred earlier, due to the smaller molecule these calories are more readily released as energy for use by your body rather than stored unused.

However, that is not the whole story on either count: coconut contains saturated fats, and also monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, although in small quantities. These, however, are present in only small amounts, although would still be expected to undergo oxidation and produce the rancid taste commonly found in aged unsaturated oils and fats. However, even after a year this does not happen, which indicates that coconut oil possesses some form of antioxidant properties. This is confirmed by the fact that people eating a diet rich in coconut oil has less of a need for the strong oil-soluble antioxidant vitamin E.

In fact, the metabolism of fats is usually connected with the carnitine transport system in the mitochondria, although the shorter Chain fatty acids do not need carnitine for their metabolism. What happens then is that because carnitine promotes oxidation during stress, and causes oxidative damage to body cells, its absence in metabolism of coconut oil fatty acids results in a reduction in the oxidation that degrades unsaturated fats. Hence the lack of rancidity.

Taking this further, then, this lack of oxidation infers that those that take a diet rich in coconut oil (for example using it for cooking rather than animal and vegetable oils containing longer Chain fatty acids) should be partially protected against cell oxidation in general. Oxidative effects such as aging, cardiovascular diseases and some cancers should be reduced, and studies have shown this to be the case. Those consuming coconut oil rather than other oils tend to age more slowly, suffer less from heart disease and tend to experience fewer incidences of cancer.

With regard specifically to weight loss, it is believed that consumption of medium Chain triglycerides, as opposed to longer Chain triglycerides, results in a higher rate of thermogenesis, or the conversion of carbohydrates to energy (fats are also carbohydrates). The first step in this process requires the presence of Coenzyme A in the form of the enzyme acyl-CoA-dehydrogenase, and measurement of the activity of this enzyme has indicated that medium Chain triglycerides exhibit much higher expenditure of energy than the metabolism of long Chain triglycerides when being converted to fatty tissue. However, though the energy used up in this reaction, known as lipogenesis, was higher, the formation of fatty tissue was the same.

Hence, MCA uses more energy to produce the same amount of fat as LCA, and therefore, although more energy is used up, no new fat is generated by the liver. Since your dietary fat intake can ultimately have only three fates: burned as energy, stored as the emergency energy source glycogen, or deposited as fat, then it is logical that the more energy generated then the less fat will be stored.

In this way, coconut oil, with a high content of medium Chain fatty acids, has a scientific explanation for causing weight reduction when used as a source of fat in the diet rather than animal or other vegetable fats or oils. It is converted to energy rather than fatty tissue, and if you exercise to use up that energy then your weight loss can be significant.

What this theory also states, however, is that coconut oil should be used as a replacement for other fats, and not in addition to it. If you take coconut oil in addition to your normal diet, do not expect to see results.

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