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Search Term: " Degeneraion "
The Health Benefits of Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc   
Date:
May 18, 2023 05:01 PM
Calcium is an important mineral that is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Without it, the body is likely to suffer from conditions such as osteoporosis, a disease where bones become fragile and brittle. However, calcium is not just important for bone health; it also plays a significant role in nerve impulse transmission and muscle contraction, helping to ensure proper functioning of the nervous system and muscular system. Calcium can also help reduce the risk of developing conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Magnesium is another important mineral that is often referred to as the forgotten mineral. This is because people tend to focus more on other minerals such as calcium and iron and ignore magnesium. However, magnesium plays a vital role in several bodily functions. It is a component of bones and teeth and participates in numerous enzymatic reactions in the body. Magnesium is intended to provide normal, healthy heart, muscle, nerve, and circulatory function. It can also help reduce the risk of developing conditions such as stroke, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Seventy percent of the population are deficient in magnesium.
Zinc is just as important a mineral as the ones listed above, zinc plays a critical role in overall physical wellbeing. It is involved in over 100 enzymatic reactions in the body, making it an essential mineral. Zinc plays an important role in immune system function, and it is vital for the normal structure of cell membranes. Zinc can also help reduce the risk of developing conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, which can cause vision loss, and can also reduce the chances of suffering from the common cold.
It's important to note that calcium, magnesium, and zinc work synergistically together. For instance, calcium combined with magnesium can help reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. Similarly, zinc combined with calcium and vitamin D can help improve bone density and enhance the effectiveness of the immune system. These minerals can be found in several foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. However, it can be challenging to get all the necessary minerals from diet alone, which is why supplements may be necessary.
In Summary, calcium, magnesium, and zinc are essential minerals that play crucial roles in our body. These minerals help the body maintain strong bones and teeth, reducing the risk of developing various conditions such as heart disease and osteoporosis, improving immune system function, and enhancing muscular and nervous system function. Taking a supplement can ensure one is obtaining enough of these important minerals daily. Grab a bottle today and take steps to better your health.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6575) How to Protect Your Eyes with Nutrients: Lutein and Zeaxanthin 
Date:
August 02, 2022 03:10 PM
Your eyes are very important to you, and you should do everything you can to protect them. One way to protect your eyes is by consuming nutrients that help keep them healthy. Lets discuss two of those nutrients: lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients help protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays and also help preserve your vision as you age. So if you want to keep your eyes healthy and protected, be sure to add lutein and zeaxanthin to your diet! What are lutein and zeaxanthin, and what do they do for the eyes? Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that are found in high concentrations in the retina. They are believed to play a role in protecting the eye from damage caused by sunlight and other forms of radiation. Lutein and zeaxanthin also help to improve vision, especially in low-light conditions. Why should one protect their eyes from UV Light? UV radiation can cause various forms of eye damage, including cataracts, macular degeneration, and pterygium. Lutein is a natural pigment that helps to build a yellow layer in the eyes and protect them from the harmful effects of UV radiation. Zeaxanthin can help protect the the eye from macular degeneration? Macular degeneration is a leading cause of vision loss in the United States. Zeaxanthin can help protect the eye from this condition. Zeaxanthin is a pigment found in the retina, and it helps to filter out harmful blue light. This can help to reduce the risk of macular degeneration. How much should you be consuming each day? There is no set recommended daily intake for lutein and zeaxanthin, as research on the topic is ongoing. However, most experts recommend aiming for at least 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin each day. So if you want to keep your eyes healthy and protected, be sure to add lutein and zeaxanthin to your diet! These nutrients can help preserve your vision and protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays. Try to aim for at least 10 mg of lutein and 2 mg of zeaxanthin or more each day.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6422) Vectomega: The Revolutionary Omega-3 Supplement
Date:
July 26, 2022 02:55 PM
Fish oil is good for the heart, brain, and helps maintain overall health and wellness Fish oil is a dietary supplement that is derived from fish body tissue. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are considered to be beneficial for the heart, brain, and overall health and wellness. Numerous studies have shown that fish oil can help to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and cognitive decline. It has also been shown to be effective in managing diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic conditions. Vectomega Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for human health, but unfortunately, our bodies cannot produce them on their own. As a result, we must obtain omega-3s through our diet or through supplements. Vectomega is an innovative omega-3 supplement that provides all the benefits of fish oil without the unpleasant taste or risk of fishy burps. Unlike other omega-3 supplements, Vectomega is bound to phospholipids, which enhances absorption. In addition, Vectomega contains fish peptides, which are a natural source of omega-3s. Best of all, Vectomega has zero rancidity, ensuring that you get the freshest possible omega-3s every time you take it. If you're looking for a high-quality omega-3 supplement, look no further than Vectomega.
The human brain is comprised of 60% fat, making omega-3 essential for healthy cognitive function. Unfortunately, the Standard American Diet is notoriously low in omega-3, which can lead to cognitive decline and an increased risk for Alzheimer's disease. The good news is that omega-3 supplements can help to improve brain health. One high-quality option is vectomega, which contains a potent form of omega-3 called DHA. DHA has been shown to improve memory and protect against age-related cognitive decline. In addition, vectomega helps to support heart health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation. It can also improve eye health by reducing the risk for macular degeneration and dry eye syndrome. Overall, vectomega is an excellent way to support brain, heart, and eye health. Reduce pain with EPA from fish oil There are many ways to reduce pain, but one of the most effective is to take fish oil supplements. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to be anti-inflammatory. EPA, or eicosapentaenoic acid, is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that is particularly effective at reducing inflammation. In fact, studies have shown that EPA is more effective than ibuprofen at reducing pain and inflammation. And unlike ibuprofen, fish oil has no side effects. So if you're looking for a natural way to reduce pain and inflammation, fish oil is a great option. Just make sure to choose a high-quality supplement that contains a significant amount of EPA like vectomega. If you're looking for a high-quality omega-3 supplement, look no further than Vectomega. This revolutionary product provides all the benefits of fish oil without the unpleasant taste or risk of fishy burps. In addition, Vectomega contains peptides which are not found in fish oil or krill oil. These peptides play a vital role in mood, immune system function, focus, and overall health! Don't miss out on this incredible supplement. Start taking Vectomega today!
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6421) Having trouble seeing at night? try Healthy Night Vision by Terry Naturally
Date:
July 20, 2022 04:30 PM
What is Terry Naturally's Healthy Night Vision supplement and what does it do? Terry Naturally Healthy Night Vision is a dietary supplement that supports vision and focus in low-light conditions. The ingredients in the supplement help to protect the eyes from blue light, support a healthy macula and blood vessels, and protect the lens from occasional strain. Terry Naturally Healthy Night Vision is a safe and effective way to support vision and focus in low-light conditions. How does the supplement work to improve night vision? Health night vision provides nutrients the body needs to support healthy eyes when your diet isn't providing the nutrients the eyes need. It is important to have nutrients in your diet that help with vision. Vitamin A, found in foods like sweet potatoes, carrots, and dark leafy greens, is essential for night vision. Zinc, found in oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, helps the eye convert light into an electrical signal that can be transmitted to the brain. French grape extract contains antioxidant pigments called anthocyanins, which have been shown to protect the retina from damage. Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids found in kale, spinach, and eggs that help to filter out harmful blue light and protect against age-related macular degeneration. By including these nutrients in your diet, you can help maintain healthy vision. Who should take the supplement Anybody struggling with their vision! If you are having trouble seeing at night, consider taking Terry Naturally's Healthy Night Vision supplement. The ingredients in the supplement help to protect the eyes from blue light, support a healthy macula and blood vessels, and protect the lens from occasional strain. The supplement is safe and effective way to support vision and focus in low-light conditions.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6418) 8 Reasons to season your food with black pepper, the "King ofSpices"
Date:
April 29, 2019 04:45 PM
For hundreds of years, black pepper has been known as The King of Spices and for good reason. Black peppers has significant health benefits for most people. This powerful condiment supports healthy digestion and enhances overall cognitive function, possibly even preventing Alzheimer's Disease. Because of its thermogenic properties, it increases metabolism and can aid in weight loss. Due to its disinfectant properties, it supports oral health if massaged directly into the gums. And finally, because black pepper inhibits the proliferation of cancer cells, it may be a natural treatment for the disease. Key Takeaways:
"The piperine in black pepper lowers blood pressure by calcium channel blockade." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-06-reasons-to-season-your-food-with-black-pepper.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6215) Medical News Today: Alpha-lipoic acid: Everything you need to know
Date:
April 17, 2019 02:34 PM
Alpha-Lipoic Acid(also known as ALA) may be the next great discovery of how to affect health for the better on a cellular level. ALA is made in the center of a cell, in the mitochondria, and seems to help with weight loss, lessening the severity of diabetes, memory loss, cell degeneration and more. Since humans only make a small amount in their bodies, some supplements are available. However, there have been only limited studies on effectiveness and none at all for children. Key Takeaways:
"Since humans can only produce ALA in small amounts, many people turn to supplements to increase their intake." Read more: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323738.php
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6138) Study shows lutein can boost heart health
Date:
March 27, 2019 02:24 PM
Many people consume lutein, either as a supplement in in vegetables containing lutein, because it can provide protection from diseases of the eye. A recent study has shown that lutein can protect the heart as well. Researchers found some correlation between higher levels of lutein in the bloodstream and a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a medical term for a group of conditions including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, and high triglycerides. Lutein, a carotenoid, is found in dark, leafy green vegetables. Key Takeaways:
"Dr. Elizabeth Leermakers decided to look into “lutein’s positive effects against inflammation and oxidative stresses in the eyes,” and together with a team of researchers, she searched for links between the presence of lutein (or a lack of the carotenoid) and diseases caused by stressors like heart attack, metabolic syndrome, and stroke." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-01-27-lutein-can-boost-heart-health.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6099) Reduces homocysteine levels and acts as an Alzheimers bodyguard?
Date:
March 12, 2019 01:50 PM
The prevalence of Alzheimer's is steadily growing, and researchers are growing more and more concerned at the apparent epidemic. Approximately one in six adults will end up experiencing some form of dementia, and this statistic alone is enough to motivate medical experts to find solutions. Some physicians are finding that taking in adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids each day can help prevent the stiffening and inflammation of cells that have the potential to lead to a drop in cognitive function related to dementia. Key Takeaways:
"The influence of marine-based omega-3 fats on physical and mental health has been the subject of intense research for decades, and there’s compelling evidence they can help ameliorate a variety of psychiatric illnesses and degenerative brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s." Read more: https://www.healthnutnews.com/reduces-homocysteine-levels-and-acts-as-an-alzheimers-bodyguard/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6073) Curcumin may protect the brain after a traumatic brain injury
Date:
January 08, 2019 08:13 AM
Oxidative neurodegeneration is a process in which oxidative stress results in degeneration of the brain, often related to a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Studies are now showing that curcumin has protective abilities that can help decrease the brain's vulnerability to further injury as a result of oxidative stress. This could be due to several factors such as its anti-inflammatory properties, the way it increases antioxidants, and its natural healing properties that can aid in regeneration. Key Takeaways:
"When choosing a curcumin supplement, it is important to source one that is non-GMO, non-irradiated and preferably contains piperine (BioPerine) which enhances curcumin absorption by as much as 2,000 percent"
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5940) PQQ is effective in combating neurodegeneration that can affect theaging brain
Date:
December 21, 2018 08:53 AM
A nutrient called Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) has shown potential for combating the degenerative neurological symptoms of Alzheimer’s, according to research published by Life Extension. Mice that were given a PQQ supplement developed smaller deposits of toxic proteins in their brains compared to the mice that did not, and also demonstrated better recall, memory, motor skills and learning relative to the control group. Other research suggests PQQ may help with Parkinson’s symptoms, and improve blood circulation within the brain. Key Takeaways:
"But there are many ways in which a person can reduce their risk of neurodegeneration as they age, like healthy eating." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-12-13-pqq-combats-neurodegeneration-that-can-affect-the-aging-brain.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5916) Gut microbes play a significant role in the central nervous system digestive health is linked to your risk of neurodegenerative diseases
Date:
August 07, 2018 09:53 AM
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers are becoming more and more common in the United States, and pose an increasing risk to aging populations. A recent study has identified gut microbes as one of the causes of these diseases - a huge breakthrough in the field, and one with significant implications for how we view our brain's health. These microbes release chemicals that can change the nature of the brain. It's a finding that shows that caring for our digestive health can be one of the most important steps to preventing diseases like Alzheimers, later on. Key Takeaways:
"They reached their conclusions after examining gut microbes and changes in mouse models of multiple sclerosis. They discovered the compounds produced by the breakdown of tryptophan cross the blood-brain barrier and activate an inflammatory pathway that can limit neurodegeneration." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-07-30-gut-microbes-play-a-significant-role-in-the-central-nervous-system.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5695) Microbiome, Herbal Medicine, and Probiotics Combine to Extend Lifespan
Date:
June 02, 2018 05:16 PM
Scientists at McGill University were able to significantly increase the life expectancy of Drosophila fruit flies by using probiotics and the prebiotic Triphala mixture, an element of traditional Indian medicine. The experiment was based on the theory of the gut-brain axis, a two way superhighway of communication between the neurons and the digestive tract that helps the body respond to its environment and handle stress. Changes associated with the aging process, such as depletion of beneficial gut flora in the gastric microbiome, can interfere with the body’s ability to handle stress, inflammation and damage effectively. It is thought that the pro- and pre- biotics mixture helped mitigate these changes to the gastric microbiome. Key Takeaways:
"The researchers, headed by Satya Prakash, Ph.D., a professor of biomedical engineering in McGill’s Faculty of Medicine, hope that the combination of probiotics and the prebiotic Triphala formulation could help to prevent or treat human disorders ranging from diabetes and obesity, to neurodegeneration, chronic inflammation, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, and perhaps even cancer." Read more: https://www.genengnews.com/gen-news-highlights/microbiome-herbal-medicine-and-probiotics-combine-to-extend-lifespan/81255870
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5625) Prevent vision loss by protecting your heart with a healthy diet
Date:
May 03, 2018 09:17 AM
The amount of those suffering from eyesight across our nation is expected to reach over a staggering 22 million by the year 2050. Many physicians are now recommending that their patients adhere to healthier diets in order for the odds to be in their favor when it comes to keeping their eyesight long-term. It is important to eat healthy foods due to them being high in antioxidants which can help fight harmful bacteria in our body that can lead to disorders that cause vision loss. Key Takeaways:
"Joshi’s colleague, Dr. Nancy Kunjukunju, M.D. gets even more specific. She states that a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle are essential for those who are afraid of getting AMD because the disease runs in the family." Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-05-01-prevent-vision-loss-by-protecting-your-heart-with-a-healthy-diet.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5591) Artichoke extract found to lower high cholesterol and protect the liver from alcohol damage
Date:
September 22, 2017 12:14 PM
Pharmaceutical companies are constantly coming up with more and more medications to treat all kinds of issues and the doctors have no problems prescribing these pills. It is no wonder that due to side effects and cost people are looking for a more natural way to care common ailments. A recent study out of China has shown that an extract from the nutrient rich artichoke can actually lower cholesterol and help reverse liver damage caused by alcohol. Read here about this safe alternative to prescribed medication. Key Takeaways:
"In a Chinese study published by the journal Nutrition and Liver Disease, artichoke extract was shown to significantly prevent elevated levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides while reducing the inflammatory infiltration, degeneration and necrosis of hepatocytes in the liver, indicating a powerful effect against acute alcohol-induced liver injury." Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-09-14-artichoke-extract-found-to-lower-high-cholesterol-and-protect-the-liver-from-alcohol.html
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5271) Lion’s Mane Mushroom: The Potential Brain-Boosting, Cancer-Fighting Powerhouse
Date:
August 08, 2017 09:14 AM
Mushrooms are known to be a health providing food. They are also not as commonly eaten in American dishes as they should be. Lion's Mane is a mushroom that Americans and others might what to add to their diet. It has garnered quite a bit of attention as an all-round powerhouse of health in several Asian based research studies. Korean studies indicate it fights cancer, Malaysian research indicates it might help with gastric issues and in Japan Lion's Mane has been shown to help as an anti inflammatory agent. Key Takeaways:
"One study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry lists the benefits by stating lion’s mane mushroom is antibiotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, anti-fatigue, antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipodemic, anti-senescence [anti-aging], cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective, and improves anxiety, cognitive function, and depression. (1)" Read more: https://draxe.com/lions-mane-mushroom/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5096) Did you know that this sheet can help treat muscle disorders and diabetes?
Date:
July 31, 2017 05:14 AM
There is a sheet that can actually help treat muscle disorders as well as diabetes. Many people know this sheet and there are also many people that do not. Fig leaves have been used as a natural medicine for a long time because of its effects. It can help with diabetes and muscle degeneration as well. There are so many special things about this leaf. It can treat a cough and many other things. It can help to lower high blood pressure too. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBZykv1mhBc&rel=0Key Takeaways:
"Some research has shown that fig leaves are effective in lowering triglycerides or fat in the blood."
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5063) 4 Fat Soluble Vitamins
Date:
April 19, 2017 11:44 AM
Do you know your fat soluble vitamins? There are several of them out there, including the four that are listed here. These vitamins play an important role in your good health. It is important that you are aware of both the benefits that is offered with this vitamin, as well as the various types of fat soluble vitamins. The knowledge of this information may very well help you protect yourself and your health for a long time to come. Key Takeaways:
"Fruit and vegetables belonging to red, yellow and orange color are all good sources to get your vitamin-A." Read more: http://fitmaintenance.com/2017/04/11/4-fat-soluble-vitamins/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4434) Daily consumption of tea protects the elderly from cognitive decline
Date:
March 20, 2017 03:44 PM
The daily consumption of tea protects elderly people from cognitive decline. It reduces the decline by 50 percent and as much as 86 percent for people who have a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease. New research has come to this conclusion. The saying is that a cup of tea a day can help keep dementia away. Key Takeaways:
""A cup of tea a day can keep dementia away..."" Reference: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/03/170316093412.htm
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4241) How antioxidants aid in healthy living: Vitamins C, E and beta carotene can help ward off a ...
Date:
March 04, 2017 02:59 PM
When it comes to boosting antioxidant intake, recent research indicates there's little benefit from taking diet supplements. A better way, according to a report in the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter, is eating a diet rich in antioxidant-containing foods. Antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, carotene, lycopene, lutein and many other substances may play a role in helping to prevent diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease and macular degeneration. Key Takeaways:
"Antioxidants are everywhere. Energy drinks, skin treatments, vitamin supplements, and cold remedies, and all extol the virtues of their special combination of health giving ingredients." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4072) Which vitamins are good for dry eyes?
Date:
February 27, 2017 12:59 PM
Cases of dry eyes have become increasingly prevalent. There are many prescription and over-the-counter medicines out there that can help with the condition, but can simply supplementing certain vitamins help? Vitamins A, C, E, and thiamine have all been shown to help prevent cataracts and macular degeneration, but not much research has been done on something as simple as dry eyes. While there is no proof that any particular vitamin can prevent dry eyes, vitamins A, D, and omega-3 fatty acids may help. You should always talk to your doctor before starting any supplementation. Key Takeaways:
"People should be skeptical about any vitamin, mineral, and herbal supplements that claim to treat dry eye syndrome." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4035) Important Vitamins For Brain Health
Date:
February 11, 2017 12:59 PM
Every part of the body has nutrients that it needs to survive. The brain is one organ that we need to function properly to avoid irreversible damage. If you find yourself feeling a little sluggish, you may need to supplement certain vitamins and minerals to get you back to where you belong. Vitamins E, B, and C are essential to the brain because they maintain healthy function of neurons, promote the production of hormones, and help boost the immune system to fight off cognitive disorders. Vitamins B6, B12, and D also provide needed aid to the brain. Key Takeaways:
"Vitamins play a basic role in the improvement of your memory and in the functioning of the brain." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3924) Mushrooms 'can reduce dementia' by boosting nerves in the brain
Date:
January 31, 2017 10:59 AM
Dementia is a serious issue for the elderly. There isn't too much known about it. Here one option for possibly lessening the chances of it is mentioned. Mushrooms can help. They help the nerves in the brain. It's definitely work a look, especially if dementia runs in your family or if you are just concerned about it in general. Key Takeaways:
"Current drug therapy for neuro-degenerative diseases is ineffective with many side effects - and it only provides a short-term delay in progression." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3856) Which Vitamins are Good for Dry Eyes?
Date:
January 28, 2017 12:59 PM
If you suffer from dry eyes, you know how annoying and painful it can be. There are many medications out there that cater to this all too common condition, but what if your diet can help with the problem? While vitamins A, C, E, and zinc are all good for eye health, there is currently debate on whether or not vitamins can help with dry eyes. Vitamin A, vitamin D, and omega-3 have been linked with dry eyes in patients, but more research needs to be done to see if increasing doses will help with symptoms. Key Takeaways:
"Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not make enough tears, or if the tears vanish too quickly. There are many treatments for dry eyes. Can vitamins help prevent or treat dry eyes? We find out. If an individual has a healthy balanced diet, they should be able to get all the vitamins and minerals they need from their diet. However, some people may need to take a supplement if advised by their doctor." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3842) UV Light May Lead Way to New Treatment for MS and Inflammation
Date:
December 10, 2016 12:59 PM
HDACs are molecules driving inflammation and controlling a range of other processes. To get around the problem, researchers at Cornell University designed a molecule that can activate an HDAC blocker using UV light. The team used an existing blocker and covered the part of the drug that interacts with HDAC with an additional molecule. We can control when and where we turn off the HDACs using light. Key Takeaways:
"Drugs that block HDACs are being investigated in conditions that include neurodegeneration and cancer, but their role in inflammation is only beginning to be explored." Reference:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3614) Microbes in your gut influence age-related macular degeneration
Date:
November 29, 2016 02:59 PM
Age-related macular degeneration affects over 10 million people in North America. A study performed in Montreal has recently discovered that bacteria in our guts may be the culprit behind a specific form of the disease called blinding wet age-related macular degeneration. The bacteria cause inflammation that leads to deposits of fat debris in the back of the eyes and destruction of nerve cells. It is suggested that diets with high fat intake alter the stomach bacteria and make it possible for this scenario to occur. Key Takeaways:
"Among the series of experiments conducted as part of this study, the group performed fecal transfers from mice receiving regular fat diets, compared to those receiving a high fat diet, and found a significant amelioration of wet AMD" Reference: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/11/161115111437.htm
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3533) five anti-aging food found in the grocery store
Date:
November 13, 2016 06:46 AM
The choices we make at meal time affect how we age. By choosing healthy options, some of the common symptoms of old age can be reversed, removed, or masked. Many vitamins and nutrients prevent diseases that are mostly diagnosed during old age and maintain a healthy body. Eating correctly is essential to preserving our youth. Key Takeaways:
"Tomatoes, eggplants, blueberries, blackberries, and other colorful fruits are packed with antioxidants. These help combat free radicals that damage healthy cells and suppress the immune system." Reference: //www.pep.ph/lifestyle/food/34175/five-anti-aging-food-found-in-the-grocery-store?ref=latest
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3435) Health Benefits of Calendula
Date:
September 12, 2016 05:25 PM
Calendula is an annual flower usually found in the northern Mediterranean countries. It’s got its name because it blooms with the calendar, once a month.
Health benefits of calendula
1. Healing nature- it has antioxidant compounds which is the cause of its healing nature. It can heal your scrapes, cuts, insect bites etc.
2. Enhances skin appearance- Calendula oil can boost your skin appearance. It provides antioxidant protection to your skin, reducing wrinkles, aging and improving blood flow to the skin.
3. Improves dental health- It has antibacterial properties which provides good oral health. It is one of the main ingredients in natural mouthwashes, toothpastes etc. because of its ability to kill cavities and gingivitis causing bacteria.
4. Improves vision- Beta-carotene in calendula can directly impact your vision. This will prevent development of cataract and macular degeneration.
5. Fights inflammation- Irrespective of where you have inflammation, calendula can reduce your discomfort. Calendula tea can reduce your congestion and cough. Skin balm containing this ingredient can reduce pain if you have arthritis or gout.
References:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3281) A Simple Thing As Taking A Breath Causes Us To Age
Date:
November 22, 2015 05:28 PM
We are often told that stress level accelerates the process of aging. But, is there any kind of scientific evidence to prove this perception? Some of the results of scientific studies have already suggested that, oxidative stress has a negative impact on both physical and emotional health. Breathing oxygen leads to the formation of ROS or reactive oxygen species within the body, which is essential for the cellular signaling process. Aerobic metabolism results in the generation of small amounts of ROS and free radicals. This is necessary for the normal functioning of the human body. But, there is a specific reason for which the ROS carry negative connotations. Whenever our body’s antioxidant defense mechanism malfunctions, the balance between oxidant and antioxidant gets spoiled. The circulative level of ROS moves out of control and causes a disturbance in the redox signaling and control and further damages the macromolecules, cells and tissues. The DNA damage response is a hierarchical procedure. It has been widely recognized that, oxidative stress is one of the primary factors, which makes the aging process faster. Best Anti-Aging DietWhat you eat has a great impact on how you are feeling and how you are aging. If you eat right, it will contribute to a great extent to keep your skin young and healthy. Antioxidants help stop unstable molecules from damaging healthy cells. You will get antioxidants in colorful fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, blueberries, leafy greens, dark red tomatoes, etc. So, your goal is to consume at least half plates of fruits and vegetables in each of your meals. Vitamin C, zinc and beta carotene are three main antioxidants, which protects the eyes from macular degeneration and poor vision. Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, mustard greens, spinach and collard are great sources of these nutrients. Foods like oranges, corns and pepper also help to keep your eye healthy. Vitamin C is also beneficial for the skin. Some studies have also suggested that, daily consumption of yellow and green vegetables helps lessen the wrinkles of the skin. Resveratrol is another powerful antioxidant, which is highly present in grapes and red wine. It not only lowers the aging process, but, also lowers the chances of cancer and heart disease. Studies have also revealed that, nuts are rich sources of unsaturated fats. They are also great sources of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals like antioxidants. Thus, it helps to keep the skin healthy and young. Beans and lentils are great sources of fiber and plant-based protein. They are very beneficial for protecting you from early aging. So, you can easily consume them instead of red meat, which have saturated fat and are not great for your heart. Dairy products like low-fat milk, yogurt, etc. are also great options for slowing down your aging process. If you do not eat dairy, you can replace them with soya milk, almond milk or cereals. Try out these antioxidant rich foods and stay young for many years to come. Antioxidant Supplements are also available in the market.
References //www.brunswicklabs.com/blog/default-blog/oxidative-stress-effects-on-lipids-proteins-and-dna //www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/healthy_aging/7_anti_aging_superfoods //www.webmd.com/healthy-aging/features/anti-aging-diet?page=2
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3233) Is Sitting The New Smoking?
Date:
August 04, 2015 07:36 PM
So much focus has been put on the bad effects of smoking. Sitting, which is just as bad as smoking is never talked about. The body has been designed for movement on a regular basis. However, most people spend their time sitting. This leads to body inactivity that a 1 hour daily workout cannot counteract. To worsen the situation, most people do not even have a workout plan. This puts their bodies in a sedentary state most of the time. It is not sitting that is dangerous, it's the amount of time that you spend sitting. Sitting here and there from time to time is perfectly natural. However, sitting for extended periods of time day in day out can have a serious impact on your health. It can really shorten your life. Standing up activates cellular and muscular systems that process triglycerides, cholesterol and blood sugar. This helps to push up fuel to the cells, and if it’s done regularly, it will tremendously reduce the risk of you suffering from obesity and diabetes.
The body was designed to move throughout the day. When you don’t move for extended periods of time, you are basically telling your body that it’s time to shut down in preparation for death. Blood usually flows slower in the heart and muscles when you are in the sitting position. This makes it easier for the fatty acids to cause clogging. Sitting also increases the production of insulin by the pancreases. Increased production of insulin can eventually lead to diabetes. People who sit for long periods of time are two times likely to suffer from heart disease and diabetes compared to those who rarely sit down. Sitting also increases the risk of suffering from colon, endocrine and breast cancers. Poor digestion, posture problems, muscle degeneration and leg disorders are other problems that have been associated with sitting for long periods of time. Reducing you sitting time can significantly increase your life expectancy. References //www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/sitting/faq-20058005 //fitness.mercola.com/sites/fitness/archive/2015/05/08/sitting-too-long.aspx
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3188) What Are The Benefits Of Vitamin E?
Date:
April 17, 2014 05:01 AM
Vitamin E is composed of eight fat soluble vitamins and it’s available in four different forms. The fat soluble antioxidant can only be obtained in food as a supplement. They help in prevention of oxidative stress in the body and other vitamins. There are different varieties of foods rich in vitamin E in terms of nutrients density with examples such as: 1. Tofu light, silken with a 25% daily value in every 5.3 mg. Health benefits of vitamin E. The health benefits come from the vitamins antioxidant property which remove free radicals that damage the cell structure due to its unstable compounds. It improves immunity and reduces cholesterol thereby reducing the risk associated with developing cancer. Vitamin E prevents the blood platelets from clumping. Heart diseases, sunstroke and coronary artery disorders are prevented through consumption of high levels of vitamin E. Vitamin E owing to its properties of antioxidant, promotes blood circulation to the scalp which help in reducing fatigue and make capillary walls more stronger for nourished cells. Vitamin E oil facilitates the healing process and since it’s extremely versatile, the vitamin E absorbed in the epidermis layer is used in treating and preventing sunburns. Since vitamin E speeds up cell generation, it’s used to treat acne, scars, and wrinkles which makes the skin to appear more younger due to its anti-aging effect. Vitamin E helps the skin to maintain its natural moist and appear to be more fresh. It’s also used to treat nails and cuticles by applying a few drops of vitamin E on them. Vitamin E is believed to promote eye health and reduces the risk of eye damage associated with old age by 20%. i.e macular degeneration. Source
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3094) Is Beta Carotene The Safe Vitamin A?
Date:
March 21, 2014 02:29 AM
Beta Carotene is a capable pwerful antioxidant that is useful for the heart and circulatory. In the constitution, it is changed into Vitamin A for the support of solid skin, great vision, and a strong immune system. Vitamin An is fundamental for ordinary structure of epithelial cells that ensures the form from ecological defilement. Sources
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3071) What Is Pine Oil?
Date:
February 23, 2014 08:07 AM
What is pine
The following are major benefits of pine oil. Injuries: One of the characteristics of pine oil is being antiseptic. This makes it to be commonly used in treating boils, injuries and cuts. It is not only because of its antiseptic characteristics but also anti-fungal properties. The fungal infections are very difficult and dangerous conditions to treat especially when they become internal. Pine helps in clearing all these problems. Respiratory Problems: Pine oil can help greatly in curing respiratory problems and medical experts use it in making coughing and cold drugs. Pine oil is an expectorant and this enables it to loosen mucus and phlegm from respiratory tracts. When your body has little deposition, it becomes very easy and faster in fighting infections reducing the recovery period.Reduce inflammation: pine oil reduces inflammation of the gall bladder and gallstones. Apart from medicinal purposes, pine oil has pleasant aroma and this makes it widely used when making most household products. Eye Health: Pine oil has the ability to neutralize free radicals and has a positive health effect on human eye. Free radicals often cause cataracts, macular degeneration and many other vision related problems. Free radicals cause degradation of eye cells. Pain: Pine oil has analgesic properties therefore making it the best in treating people suffering from rheumatic, joint pain and arthritis conditions. Apart from being analgesic, pine oil is also an anti-inflammatory agent. This means that it can as well reduce inflammation and some redness on areas affected, hence pain reduction.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3034) Top reasons why gluten free diet is necessary
Date:
January 27, 2014 09:31 AM
Gluten is a protein found mainly in grains, which include wheat, farro, durum, bulgur, spelt, semolina and many others. It is also found in other foods and is present in some toothpaste brands. Gluten is difficult to completely digest and can cause serious health problems for some people. It is for this reason that many people are increasingly consuming gluten free diet in an attempt at avoiding its negative health effects. The following is a look at the adverse effects of gluten in the human body. What Gluten can Do Some people’s bodies react to the presence of the protein by attacking it and the body tissue surrounding it, which results to numerous health problems in the body. Gluten is responsible for a condition referred to as celiac disease, which is a serious form of gluten sensitivity. This disease is considered an autoimmune disease because the body’s immune system attacks the protein and the cells of the digestive tract’s enzymes. This leads to bloating, gas, stomach pain, anemia, skin rashes, muscle cramps and bone pain. Other symptoms include missed periods in women, stunted growth in children, seizures, mouth sores, calcium deficiency, nerve damage and nutrient malabsorption. Other serious effects of ingesting gluten Include increased risk of developing some forms of cancer and chronic diarrhea. The protein has also been found to cause intestinal inflammation and degeneration of intestinal lining. Weakened intestines are dangerous because they can permit foreign substances into the blood stream, which is common in persons suffering from celiac disease. Gluten is also associated with numerous disorders of the brain. Conclusive studies have associated the protein to a condition referred to as cerebellar ataxia. Its symptoms include difficulties in coordinating balance, problems with speech and movement. Gluten free diet results to significant improvement in health for persons suffering from autism, epilepsy and schizophrenia. It has been observed that gluten may be addictive, which is why many people crave for meals made of wheat and other grains. This has not been conclusively proven but there are studies that suggest that traces of the protein’s exorphins can find their way into the human brain. Gluten Free Gluten free diet is healthy because it improves a person’s bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Any people experience significant benefits in their mental, emotional and physical health after eliminating the protein from their diets. It is, therefore, important that a gluten free diet be consumed especially by people who react negatively to it. References:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2988) What Is The Difference Between flaxseed oil and fish oil
Date:
January 01, 2014 07:03 PM
It is first important to understand the differences between the two oils. Extracted from the dried seeds of the plant rips linen, flax seed oil is clean and almost yellow. The oil is obtained by a cold method or by solvent extraction. Flaxseed oil contains acid lineolic, a particular form of omega-3 fatty acids. Fish Oil is extracted from the tissues of fatty fish containing EPA, Docohsahexanoic acid (DHA) and eicosanoids. Benefits of compare flaxseed oil and fish oil Some of the health benefits are reducing inflammation. For comparison, it is essential to analyze the benefits of both oils. Two omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA in this oil and are a great help in creating hormone-like substance that reduces inflammation and blood pressure. They have also been shown to reduce triglycerides and the accumulation of plaque in the arteries.Omega-3 oils promote the secretion of serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical anti-depressant produced by the body and thus reduces or mitigates the effects of depression. Fish oil is often used in the treatment of patients with HIV / AIDS, and has proven to be helpful in lowering triglyceride levels in the body that build up after prolonged use of antiretroviral drugs. This is extremely useful because it can reduce the risk of a patient for coronary artery disease. In addition to providing relief from chronic inflammation, they is also useful for those suffering from joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis. The EPA has also found that fish oil helps protect the skin from photo damage. Photo damage is known to cause permanent skin wrinkles and skin damage. In addition, some studies have shown that they may prevent schizophrenia, with minimal side effects. Mothers who take fish oil during pregnancy often bear children with enhanced brain function as well as children with higher IQs. They are also less prone to cognitive problems. And the effects of postpartum depression seem to lessen with the regular intake of fish oil.The fish oil supplements have even more benefits, including lower risk of macular degeneration in the aging process. And studies have shown that with weight training significant reduced pain is present in the bodybuilders who regularly consumed fish oil. Other benefits are providing relief for digestive diseases..
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2945) Why Zinc is Important for the Body
Date:
December 21, 2013 01:39 AM
Zinc is an important trace mineral found in our bodies. Its importance cannot be underestimated for its lack would cause vital body functions to come to a stop.The amount of zinc found in our bodies is about 3 to 4 grams. Zinc is also known to help people escape dangerous diseases like acne, Alzheimer's and many others. Below is a brief account of the various vital functions of zinc: Zinc enables vital body functions to occur.This is because it stimulates over a 100 enzymes in the body. Enzymes are known to aid in body processes including such activities as making vital body components or helping break down chemicals that the body does not need or would rather harm it, if left to accumulate. Still in enzymatic functions, zinc plays a role in the formation of DNA, bones and breakdown of the proteins we eat. Zinc is very vital when it comes to protecting our bodies against infections. It achieves this function in a multiplicity of ways, the very first being the pivotal role it plays in the healing of wounds. Zinc is also found in body secretions that kill bacteria and viruses which may find their way into our bodies. This is made possible by the fact that it has anti-microbial effects. Zinc is also known to assist in protecting our cell membranes from the harmful effects of metals such as copper and iron. Another similar function of zinc is its ability to assist the liver form an antioxidant known as super-peroxide that assists in elimination of harmful toxins that would otherwise harm the body. Zinc will also help reduce poor night vision for it will slow ocular degeneration.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2934) What are the Health Benefits of Spirulina?
Date:
November 28, 2013 04:17 PM
Whaty is Spirulina
1. High in antioxidants - Some of the antioxidants found in Spirulina are carotenoids, selenium, vitamin E and phenolic acid. 2. Boosts immune system - Sprirulina helps our body to produce more monocytes and macrophages that kills bad cells and pathogens. 3. Rich in beta carotene - It has ten times richer beta carotene than carrots. 4. Remove toxins in our body - It is rich in phytonutrients like polysaccharides, phycocianin and chlorophyll that cleanse our bodies from the toxic chemicals found in drugs, food, water and air. 5. Allergy treatment - Studies show that it can treat allergic rhinitis and some of its' symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, itching and congestion. 6. Cardiovascular Disease - It can reduce the level of bad cholesterol in our body. It prevents hypertension and stroke. 7. Cancer - It removes free radicals and fights cellular degeneration. 8. Diabetes - In a recent study, it was found out that after 12 weeks of taking spirulina, there was a significant drop in blood-fat levels. 9. Aids in digestion - It restrains bad bacteria like candida yeast and e-coli and boosts the healthy level of bifidobacteria and lactobacillus. 10. Prevents nutritional disease - Such as anemia or iron deficiency. It is rich in iron which is easier to absorb by our body than other iron supplements. Did you know that Japan is the largest consumer as well as the largest producer of Spirulina? Maybe this is also one of the reasons why Japanese looks 10 years younger than their current age and their life expectancy is 82 which makes them the second country to have the longest life expectancy in the world. References:
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2909) LUTEIN
Date:
October 22, 2013 11:51 PM
LUTEIN Lutein is referred to as an antioxidant carotenoid which is simply a pigmented nutrient that is. How does Lutein helps the eyes. Lutein is responsible for the yellow colours found in fruits and vegetables. It is present in high quantities in leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, corn, orange juice, grapes, broccoli and yellow carrots and is dark in colour. Lutein is obtained by animals either directly or indirectly from plants and employed by them as an antioxidant and also for absorption of blue light. Each and every individual was born with a certain amount of lutein in your eye but it is not produced in the body. Where is lutein found in the body
The region of the retina responsible for central vision is called the macula. This area is sensitive to blue light and upon exposure to too much light can cause damage to the eyes. Lutein helps to protect this damage by filtering blue light before it can cause damage to the macula.
Also it is evident that lutein in food protects against cataracts as well as macular degeneration that are the common eye disorders. Lutein together with another carotenoid called zeaxanthin form the yellow pigment found in the retina and absorbs blue light that is a harmful component of the sunlight. Lutein is also may help protect carotid arteries found on the neck from clogging which is an indication of atherosclerosis that is a disease that leads to heart attacks.
Conclusion
If you do not eat properly, the amount of lutein in the eyes may deplete as you age. Your body doesn’t make lutein therefore it is recommended that you replace this through eating fruits and vegetables that are good sources of lutein. You can also get zeaxanthin in oranges, orange bell peppers, honeydew melon and also corn. Lutein and zeaxanthin works together and can also be found in egg yolks. Therefore to maintain that good vision always eat lots of fruits and vegetables and they will boost your vision.
References: //www.bausch.com/en/reference/lutein for eyes/
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2853) What Are The Benefits Of Pure Hempseed Oil?
Date:
March 18, 2013 04:40 PM
Hempseed oil is oil that is obtained from hemp seeds. Unrefined Hempseed oil that is cold pressed is green in color and dark to clear light. It also has a nutty pleasant flavor. If the Hempseed oil has a dark the color then the flavor becomes more grassier. Refined hemp oil is colorless and clear with little flavor. It lacks antioxidants and natural vitamins. Refined Hempseed oil is used primarily to manufacture products of body care. Industrial Hempseed oil is used to produce paints, lubricants, inks, plastic and fuel. This oil has also found some limited use in industries that produce shampoos, detergents and soaps.
Hempseed has had a good relationship with humanity. Hempseed high in fatty acids Studies that have been conducted recently shows that it contains essential fatty acids and amino acids that are necessary for human life. It also has a rare protein referred to as globule Edestins that is similar to Globin that is fond in blood plasma of humans.
Pure Hempseed oil has high nutritional value because it consist 1:3 ratio of omega 3 to omega 6 essential fatty acids .This ratio matches with the balance that human body requires. In recent years, it has received attention as possible feed stock for large scale production of bio-diesel. This oil makes incredible cosmetic grade oil and quality dietary oil that are superior because of its high nutritional value. It is used also as a skin care recipes because it has base ingredients that helps the skin to regenerate and heal. Pure Hempseed oil is highly emollient and this property makes it to be used to regenerate and nourish the skin directly. Hempseed oil is capable of penetrating the skin deeply unlike other oils that sits on top of the skin. Its deep penetrative property prevent the skin from aging because it allows essential fatty acids to penetrate the outer layer of skin fully thus encouraging a healthy moisture balance. Hempseed oil contains a rich balance of essential oils Pure Hempseed oil contains one of the richest and balanced natural sources of essential oils that are good for human consumption. The essential fatty acids help to restore wasting bodies and also improve immune system that is damaged. It is therefore not a surprise that modern researchers have studied this oil in relation to modern immune that attacks AIDS virus. Hempseed oil is surely nature's oil that is most balanced for human nutrition (1:3 LNA to LA ratio) and it can be digested easily. In fact, modern research indicates that this oil can provide all our essential fatty acid requirements for life. Rich in Omega-3 This is made possible because it has a balanced 80 percent essential fatty acid content of the oil. Omega 3, a component that is found in Hempseeds helps to prevent: growth retardation, motor in coordination, tingling in legs and arms, behavioral changes, visual impairment and learning inability, high blood pressure, high triglycerides, tissue inflammation, dry skin, edema, low metabolic rate, sticky platelets and other kinds of immune dysfunctions. Rich in Omega-6 Omega 6 a component that is also found in Hempseeds helps in preventing: loss of hair ,skin eruptions ,liver degeneration ,kidney degeneration ,behavioral disturbances, drying up of glands excessive water loss from the skin that is accompanied by thirst, failure of wound healing ,susceptibility to infections ,growth retardation sterility in males ,arthritis like conditions, miscarriage in females, circulatory and heart problems. Prolonged absence of both omega 3 and 6 in your diet can be fatal and should be avoided. Pure Hempseed oil is is ideal to be used in mayonnaise, dips and salad dressing because of its nutty pleasant flavor .It can be taken as an additional supplement for well being and general health. However it is not suitable to be used for frying because its benefits are reduced.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2832) Can Resveratrol Help Fight DNA Damage?
Date:
January 21, 2013 01:32 PM
How resveratrol helps in fighting DNA damage Resveratrol is a naturally occurring antioxidant produced by plants to protect them against attacks by predators such insects, bacteria or fungi. This antioxidant which has been the subject of several scientific studies is usually found in large quantities in grape skin or red wine. Although the body can function without it which means that you can not be termed as deficient of this nutrient, the compound is known to have immense health benefits. Scientists claim that human beings have not yet fully discovered the real benefits that can be derived from this antioxidant. Scientists have demonstrated that Resveratrol is quite effective in fighting DNA damage which is responsible for aging as well as disorders that are associated with aging including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Cell degeneration in vital organs is usually linked to certain factors. An important factor that causes cell loss is the presence of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by mitochondria in the cell which is responsible for cell death and DNA damage. Preventing mitochondria turnover and bio-genesis guards against oxidative mitochondria thus promoting healthy aging.
Cell degeneration has been effectively controlled by using a diet that is low in calories so as to increase mitochondria biogenesis. Adding resveratrol to your diet has the same effect since this antioxidant mimics dietary restriction thus delaying diseases related to aging. The compound has been known to stall the aging process by acting as sirtuin activator. It is also responsible for various effects on fat cells which alter fat mass by acting on cell viability and adipogenesis in mature preadipocytes. Laboratory tests have demonstrated that this compound stimulates bio-genesis which helps in delivering immense health-related benefits in mice. The antioxidant fights off cancer which occurs when there is cell damage during cell division. The compound stops cell division in order to allow enzymes repair damaged genes .It also prevents carcinogenic metabolism, a common cause of DNA damage.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2814) bilberry Herb
Date:
October 27, 2012 11:25 AM
Bilberry Extract The use of bilberry extracts dates back to 1000 years ago where many people attest success when they are applied to the eye. Bilberry is considered a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant used to treat the eye problems such as cataracts, muscular degeneration, and neuropathy. As one ages, there is tendency that the eye blood vessels thickens due to consumptions of fats. Bilberry application helps to reduce the inflammation and strengthen then artery walls of the vessels within the eye area, and therefore improves the vision. Clinical studies suggest that proper blood circulation within the eye also reduces the chances of blindness in the early ages. Eye Health Moreover, thick arteries contribute to the swelling of the eyes. In extreme circumstances, swollen eyes hamper vision and make it difficult for an individual to walk without help of a friend. If this condition is untreated, atherosclerosis develops thereby worsening the eye health. To avert this, bilberry is eaten in extract form or as a fruit. It will eventually reduce the thickness of the arteries within the body circulatory system. During the Second World War, the fruit extract was eaten the soldiers who fought throughout the nights. Pilots also ate them as it was regarded to enhance the night vision. It was until recently that publicity of the extract was recognized worldwide and it has been commercialized as an eye supplement. Bilberry also improves the vision at night. Many studies have indicated that consumption of bilberry jam helps to increase vision during the night. Bilberry extract contains anthocyanins which is a useful ingredient for the production of rhodopsin. Rhodopsin is known to enhance the night vision by aiding the eye to adjust to insufficient light during night and therefore enhances vision.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2695) What are the Health Benefits of Green Tea?
Date:
June 21, 2012 08:33 AM
Benefits of green Tea Green tea health benefits are not hidden from the world anymore. Antioxidants are one of the most beneficial properties of Green tea. This medicinal property alone can solve several health complications. A powerful antioxidant, which is found in green tea, is known as catechin. Medical experts say that among several types of catechin, Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) is the most effective one and green tea is a huge source of this type of antioxidant. How Green Tea Helps to Achieve a Sound Health? Being an immense source of various healing and beneficial properties, this tea is capable of providing numbers of health benefits. Below mentioned points can be referred to get a clear understanding about the efficiency of green tea. Anti-bacterial Benefits Catechin has a sterilizing effect on the body. After consulting various research reports it was found that catechin helped to fights off the bad bacteria of the body. The report also showed that it encouraged the growth of the good bacteria, which exist in almost every human body. Therefore, it can be said that catechin helps to prevent viral infections like flu and cold by building a strong immune system. Decreases the Probability of Heart Diseases The antioxidant property of this tea is a perfect solution for lowering the risk of heart diseases. It is a well-proved fact that catechin in green tea helps to reduce level of cholesterol, stress and blood pressure. As a result, the overall health of the heart and the cardiovascular system improves. Anti-aging Effect Nowadays, almost everybody knows that antioxidants are highly efficient for destroying the free radicals, which are responsible for body's degeneration process. So, by killing and reducing the numbers of these harmful elements, this tea helps to stay young for a comparatively longer period of time. It Lowers the Risk of Cancer Free radicals are also the same complex substances, which damage the healthy cells of the human body and brain. Antioxidants in green tea help to protect the healthy cells and reduce the chances of certain types of cancer by destroying the free radicals. Quickens Weight Loss Process It can also help to accelerate the weight loss procedure. The basic idea behind weight loss is restricting the intake of fatty foods and an increasing the rate of metabolism. During medical trials, researchers observed that this tea helped to increase the metabolic rate, which ensured a speedy fat reduction. It was possible as the body was able to burn the excess fat quickly. So, it can be said that green tea can really reduce the extra bulges, if a person accompanies the consumption of green tea with healthy diet and exercise regimen. Anti-diabetic Effect The alkaline nature of this tea helps to lower the level of glucose in blood. But, it should be consumed without sugar to get that benefit. The anti-oxidizing and astringent nature of the ingredients of green tea improves the functions of pancreas, which in turn ensures better insulin emission and absorption of sugar. The overall effect helps to keep diabetes away. After the overall discussion it can be concluded that a careful and supervised intake of green tea can help to alleviate several health complications.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2656) What are the health benefits of silica gel?
Date:
April 27, 2012 03:15 PM
Silica Gel The inevitable process of aging does exhaust sources of silica in our bodies. This leads to brittle nails, bones, lifeless hair, wrinkles, and dry skin. The skin has collagen underneath which helps to enhance its beauty as well as elasticity. Silica helps provide a young and healthy look to the hair, nails and skin. It is associated with mineral absorption and may be combined with proteins or lipids. Silica can also come soluble in water or in free form. Silica is so important in the process of antibody manufacture and efficient in assisting to convert lymphocyte B into lymphocyte T, making it a very beneficial element for the immune system. Silica Promotes Collagen Production Silica quantities in our bodies are typically higher than the quantities of other vital minerals essential for a myriad of metabolic processes. A type of silica known as colloidal silica gel has very tiny microscopic particles of silica suspended in liquid. The gel can be taken in order to provide support to the connective tissues as well as to promote collagen formation in one's skin. Silica gel can also be bought in form of capsules. The gel may be mixed with juice or water. Health benefits Silica is a crystalline silicon or quartz and is found in abundant quantities in the crust of the earth. Silica gel is extracted from plants and is important for the bones, skin, cartilage, blood vessels, and tendons. Silica gel is found in very few kinds of foods and the amounts are usually sufficient for the needs of human beings. Silica gel must be replenished every day since it gets absorbed and then excreted rapidly. The gel is very important as it helps in the accurate absorption of vital minerals in our bodies and provides all healthy attributes for the collagen under the skin. Silica gel supplies proteins and lipids to our bodies and helps make the hair, nails, and skin have a more radiant look. Silica and osteoporosis Silica gel also helps to prevent and treat osteoporosis that is caused by aging. Calcium supplements alone cannot fight osteoporosis and have to be combined with silica gel. Osteoporosis decreases the density and mass of the bones, causing them to be fragile and porous. If one only takes calcium supplements, it may hasten the process of degeneration. Silica gel is very effective for pain relief and retention of the self-repairing abilities of our bodies. The connective tissues degenerate rapidly because they are not able to retain moisture for an extended period of time, thus silica gel works as the glue that holds them together. Silica And Blood Pressure Silica gel also helps to control high blood pressure for those at risk. While it lowers blood pressure, it helps promote and maintain the right blood pressure levels in the entire circulatory system. Doing this helps to bring normal circulation to the body. Silica gel is also recommended for people with various joint pains. From rheumatism and arthritis, silica nutrients replenish cartilage in the joints. After prolonged use, one can freely move their joints without feeling excessive pain or discomfort.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2639) What Is Glutathione Good For?
Date:
April 14, 2012 08:03 AM
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.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2633) What Makes A Good Vision Formula?
Date:
April 09, 2012 07:27 AM
Vision Formula Although there are many types of vision formula products in the market, a good number of them are not what you really need for your healthy eyes. This is because although they may contain various good nutrients, they might also lack some components that are vital to your general health. Many people forget that the eye is in fact only one organ of the body, and it cannot function on it's own. Problems in someone's vision are often an indication of the general unhealthy state of the body. A good vision formula, therefore, has to be blended in such a way that it contains all the required nutrients for the eye. while being free of any ingredients that can be harmful to the eye or any part of the body. A Good Eye Formula Contains: For any vision formula, vitamin A is a must-have. This is arguably the most important nutrient for the eyes. In fact, there is hardly such a time that the eyes have enough vitamin A from the foods we eat.Carrots have a reputation for being good for the eyes simply because they are rich in vitamin A. Along with vitamins E and C, it acts as an antioxidant which help to promote a clear vision. Bilberry is another very important ingredient. It helps to enhance better night-vision, and helps people to see more clearly when there is very little light.It does this by enabling the pupils of the eyes to open wider thus allowing more light to enter the eye.Bilberry is so effective that during the second world war, it is said that British pilots used to eat them every time they fly.The black carrent is another nutrient that also helps in improving night vision. Lutein makes another vital nutrient that a good vision formula should contain.It is one of the best natural antioxidants known to man. Among it's roles is protecting the eye from dangerous blue light, which can badly damage a person's vision. It also reduces the possibility of macular degeneration -a condition which is associated with aging. Lutein is not just important to the eyes alone, but also to the skin.The fact that it helps to filter out the blue light rays, means that it is needed by the skin too, because the skin also needs protection from these dangerous rays.It is known also to redeem the free radicals, which are very important to the eyes and need protection from damage. There are other very important ingredients of a good vision formula, including Blueberry, Taurine and copper, which are important in facilitating a clear vision as well as enhancing the general good health of the eye.It is important that you take note of the fact that not all eye problems can be remedied by a vision formula. While a vision formula can be of great help in enhancing the way you see, some problems may require the attention of a specialist. It is therefore advised that you seek help from such specialists who can understand your problem better and help you solve them accordingly.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2630) What Is L-Carnosine And What Does It Do?
Date:
March 30, 2012 08:28 AM
What Is L-Carnosine L-Carnosine is basically a combination of 2 vital amino acids-L-histidine and beta-alanine. It is naturally present in the body, mainly in the muscle, and in many animals too. Carnosine can be broken down easily into the two amino acids, but it is good to know that these amino acids work much better when combined to form L-Carnosine. L-Carnosine has the remarkable ability to revitalize, that is, to make older cells younger and lengthen their life cycle. This compound is commercially available and is the only one that has the rare and distinctive ability to rejuvenate cells. What does L-Carnosine do? In simple language, L-carnosine is able to transform itself into so many compounds with each performing or enhancing a number of crucial body functions such as: May bind to dangerous metal compounds to make them inactive. Turning the resultant metal compound/carnosine into useful antioxidants which in turn can be anti-ulcer agents Protecting and stabilizing cell membranes, keeping cells safe from dangerous free radicals Protecting healthy cells from damage caused by radiation Fighting allergies Enhances blood flow to the brain Acts like a neurotransmitter, helping messages move from one nerve to the other. This helps fight dementia, as in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and boost memory. Blocks guanylate cyclase activation, an enzyme associated with cancer, migraine, asthma, and septic shock. Special derivatives of carnosine can help get rid of the accumulation of sugar compounds and abnormal protein in the eye. A variety of these compounds may cause glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Carnosine works like a catalyst to boost the work of so many other compounds and nutrients. Benefits of using L-carnosine Although L-carnosine benefits haven't been extensively researched, according to initial studies it may help in: Dealing with complications related to cataracts, diabetes, neuropathy, and kidney failure. It may also help in slowing down aging in skin, minimizing wrinkles as well as breakdown of elasticity in skin. It can help to prevent joint inflammation, atherosclerosis, and formation of cataract. Carnosine has been known to prevent and reduce cell damage occasioned by beta amyloid-the substance found in Alzheimer's patent's brain. Additionally, carnosine appears able to help get rid of the helicobacter pylori bacterium, the organism associated with stomach cancer and peptic cancer. Therefore, it can significantly help protect and heal both peptic and gastric ulcers. Other possible L-carnosine benefits Increase muscle endurance and strength Improves heart function Speeds healing of wound A powerful antioxidant that can deal with even the worst free radicals Reduces inflammation and boosts immunity It helps pull out or chelate some heavy metals from your body May help autistic children Act as anti-cancer agent in the body Stabilizes cell membranes and slows down lipid peroxidation to protect the process of aging of the brain L-carnosine can help in preventing or even treating age-related conditions like: Cell aging/cellular senescence Neurological degeneration Cross-linking of eye lens Build up of damaged proteins Brain circulatory deficit Muscle atrophy Cross-linking of collagen in the skin DNA chromosome damage LDL cholesterol oxidation Formation of AGEs i.e. advanced glycation end-products. What is stopping you from taking L-Carnosine today?
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2623) What Are The Health Benefits Of Saffron Extract?
Date:
March 26, 2012 08:01 AM
HEALTH BENEFITS OF SAFFRON EXTRACT
Saffron is one of the rarest and exotic spices found on the earth. Golden spice is the other name given to saffron, attributing to its reddish-golden color. It is the most common spice used in many Indian,Mediterranean and Italian cuisine. This culinary and exotic spice grows on a flowering plant- Crocus Sativa. It is grown in various countries around the world including many Asian and European countries. Areas with hot dry summers and wet springs are the most suitable areas for growing Saffron. While saffron is popular for its flavor, color and fragrance, this rare spice also, has many medicinal and health benefits. Saffron is a very expensive spice and this is mainly because of the fact, that for making 1gram of Saffron strands 150 flowers are required. Mineral present in Saffron extract - Saffron extract contains high amounts of copper, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, iron, and selenium. It is also a rich source of various vitamins like- vitamin A, B2 and C, niacin and folic acid. Apart from these Saffron also contains carotenoid compounds - crocetin, lycopeneand, safranel and crocin. The various health benefits of Saffron are - 1) Cancer Treatment- Because of the presence of crocetin and carotenoid in Saffron, it has anti-mutagenic and anti-tumor properties. Several studies on Saffron extract have proved that Saffron extract delays papilloma carcinogenisis and tumor growth. Because of all these properties, Saffron extract can be used for treating and preventing skin cancer, liver cancer and sarcoma. 2) Anti-inflammatory properties- Saffron have anti-inflammatory properties and therefore it can be used in treatment of arthritis and other inflammatory diseases. It is capable of controlling inflammation and healing cuts and burns faster. 3) Potent aphrodisiac- For last many centuries, Saffron has been used as a “POTENT APHRODISIAC” inPersiaand many other Arabian countries. It can increase libido and improve erectile dysfunction by increasing the flow of blood in the pelvic region. 4) Eye Care- Several studies have proved that Saffron extract can treat certain eye problems like- macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa. Saffron also protects the eyes from the harmful effects UV rays. 5) Anti-Depressants- Saffron extract can also be used in the treatment of patients suffering from depression. Researches have shown that Saffron gives equal results as given by therapeutic drugs like imipramine and fluoxetine. 6) Painkiller- Saffron extract can be used for treating many severe painful conditions like- stomach pain, menstrual pain, and kidney pain. 7) Weight loss- Researches have shown that Saffron can suppress the feeling of hunger, by controlling the percentage of serotonin content in the blood. Therefore, Saffron is used in many weight loss programs, as it can reduce the compulsion to eat and feelings of hunger. 8) Skin- Saffron contains antioxidants, and therefore it is used in many beauty and anti-aging treatments. 9) Saffron during Pregnancy- During pregnancy, women are advised to drink Saffron milk, in order to enhance their pelvic blood flow. Also, due to its Carminative properties it helps in suppressing cramps. Gas and bloating are very common problems during pregnancy and just one glass of Saffron milk can reduce flatulence and ease digestion.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2619) What Makes Ubiquinol The Best Form Of COQ10?
Date:
March 08, 2012 11:48 PM
Benefits of Ubiquinol Ubiquinol is an active antioxidant form of CoQ10. It is pre-converted and ready-to-use diet supplement. Hence, it is easily absorbed and utilized by the body. Research studies show that ubiquinol has proved to be much more effective than ubiquinone and has all vital health benefits as CoQ10. Ubiquinol is the next generation supplement which provides support for a healthy body and mind. It helps you to live a healthy life by raising your CoQ10 plasma level. It also plays an important role in production of energy levels. Moreover, it protects the cells of the body from oxidative kind of stress which can eventually damage proteins, DNA, and lipids. Benefits of Ubiquinol: Cardiovascular health: Clinical studies show that ubiquinol improves the overall cardiovascular health. Cardiac patients who have been taking high dosages of statins like Lipitor, Zocor, etc for a long period of time have decreased levels of coenzyme Q10 as these statins inhibit the body's production level of coenzyme Q10. The low levels of CoQ10 in the body can result in cardiomyalgia, fibromyalgia, atherosclerosis, etc. Thus, if these patients take ubiquinol which is an antioxidant then it neutralizes the oxidation of LDL. Cognitive Health: It helps to increase the stamina and energy and promotes general health and wellness. Anti-aging support: Due to degeneration and advanced age, the aged people have less CoQ10 biosynthesis and body's conversion ability also diminishes in such subjects. A collaborated study carried out on middle aged people demonstrated that subjects who were given this supplement showed marked improvement in their physical and mental activities. Thus ubiquinol by and large promotes life extension and improves the overall mental health by compensating for the age-related conversion disability. Power to other organs: Ubiquinol plays an important role in igniting energy levels within the cells of vital organs like heart, kidneys, liver, and lungs. Thus it naturally helps you to sustain your energy levels. Protects Cells: Ubiquinol protect cells of vital organ like heart from further damage and from constant attack by free radicals. Neuronal Health: Ubiquinol benefits the neurological system and promotes brain health. Studies carried out on patients who had Parkinson's disease have proved that it reduces the functional decline in these patients. Oral Health: Ubiquinol impacts the oral health and significantly enhances the salivary coenzyme Q10 levels. It affects all aspects of mouth, teeth, lips, tongue, and salivary glands. Renal Health: Studies show that Ubiquinol gives significant renal protection to patients who have chronic kidney disease. Your body constantly produces powerful antioxidants daily when you are young. But as you age, your body can not sustain this natural production level forever. Hence ubiquinol supplementation is important to promote overall good health. Ubiquinol can be used as a dietary supplement. Its ready-to-use formula is eight times more effective as it can be readily absorbed by your body. Thus it is an ideal diet supplementation for current CoQ10 users.
At present there are no known side effects of ubiquinol, but if you are on multi-drug therapy or are already taking other supplementations, then please consult your doctor prior taking this diet supplementation Ubiquinol.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2605) Supremacy of Pea Protein Over The Other Protein Sources
Date:
March 01, 2012 08:53 PM
Supremacy of Pea Protein Over The Other Protein SourcesProtein 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) Why Choosing 7-Keto DHEA Over Standard DHEA
Date:
February 25, 2012 06:36 AM
The Importance OF DHEA Nowadays DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is probably one of the most abundant hormone that can be found in the human blood. Being produced in the adrenal cortex, this important steroid it's very important in reducing body fat, cholesterol and also the alleviate angina. In addition to all that, DHEA has been widely used to treat coronary artery disease, Alzheimer's, sclerosis, depression, osteoporosis and even cancer. Because of this, DHEA is known under the name of “Fountain of youth.” DHEA levels will usually decrease with age. This decrease might lead to high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration and even obesity in many cases. These are only a few reasons that make of DHEA an imperative hormone for our body. What Makes 7-Keto DHEA Better Than Standard DHEA? 7-Keto Dhea it's similar to its cousin hormone, however it is much better for your body. Some of its extra benefits that can't be find in the standard DHEA are: - Enhances your immune system. - Improves your memory. - Increases your muscular mass and strength. - Help you lose fat naturally. - Increases the activity of your thyroid gland. - Reduces the signs of aging. Overall, 7-Keto DHEA is a safer and a more potent derivates of standard DHEA, proved to be safer and with less side effects. 7-Keto DHEA is a real breakthrough as it represents the next generation of DHEA supplements. How was this discovered? In the previous years, the University of Wisconsin conducted an extensive research in order to discover the best DHEA derivates. Over more than 150 DHEA derivates analyzed, a single compound stood out- it was 7-Keto DHEA. This compound provided greater benefits over a long-term period than the standard DHEA. Nowadays it is considered an improved and much safer form of this important hormone, called DHEA. In addition to providing all therapeutic benefits of DHEA, this improved hormone won't be converted into some unwanted sex steroids. It also lacks any other hormone- elevation that was commonly found in the standard DHEA supplements. This product makes you feel young again without endangering your body tissues or internal organs, compared to the traditional DHEA whose side effects were found destructive to some of your body tissues. Why To Take This Hormone? 7-Keto Dhea was proven to be a safe product in a clinical trial, being tested on many people and animals. The only side effects this hormone might have are some mild heart palpitations and sometimes acne. Still, these side effects won't usually appear on people who take this product as prescribed and also avoid taking an overdose. The benefits this hormone provides to our body are very real, as they were discovered at those who took this hormone for a longer period of time. Enhancing your immune system, the response to viruses is stronger. You will feel healthier and better protected. When Should You Take It? This hormone is to be taken only after you reached 30 years old, as you won't need it before that age. DHEA hormone begins to decrease considerably only after you reach 30, so this process will continue until you reach 70 or 80 years old. Taking the 7-Keto Dhea hormone will help you feel and be younger.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2593) Benefits Of Zeaxanthin
Date:
February 07, 2012 08:14 AM
With aging, our eyes and the associated muscles weaken. They can degenerate and lose our ability to see properly. Eyes enable us with vision to see the world, and losing the eyesight will halt affect our daily activities and movements. People are frequently worried about losing their sight, and try to find supplements that can prevent the loss of vision. However, this debility can be prevented. Supplements should be ideally be all natural, healthy, and with no side effects. Zeaxanthin is an important nutrient for eye health. This is found in found in green leafy vegetables, and also in other foods like eggs. Zeaxanthin fulfills most of the requirements that most people look in a supplement. WHAT IS ZEAXANTHIN Zeaxanthin and lutein are carotenoids that filter out the harmful high-energy wavelengths of light, and also act as antioxidants in the eye. This helps to maintain and protect healthy eye cells. Out of the six hundred carotenoids found in nature, only these two, Zeaxanthin and Lutein are deposited in high quantities in the retina (macula) of the eye. Unfortunately, our body does not synthesize the zeaxanthin and lutein it requires. This is the reason why green vegetables, eggs and other sources of these carotenoids are essential to proper nutrition. Daily intake of zeaxanthin and lutein through diet, beverages, fortified foods or nutritional supplements and is very important for the protection and continuation of good eye health. Studies have indicated that zeaxanthin and lutein can help to lessen the chance of chronic eye illnesses, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Zeaxanthin, is also a bioflavonoid, that besides its benefits to ocular health, has been linked to providing many health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory property. Because of zeaxanthin being a carotenoid category bioflavonoid, its main action is over the blood vessels; it works by supporting the blood vessels around the retina area with their proper function. ZEAXANTHIN BENEFITS Zeaxanthin is both an anti-inflammatory phytochemical and an antioxidant; hence this has been used as a preventative measure for macular degeneration and cataracts. Its antioxidant properties keep eyes from being damaged from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sunlight. Overall, zeaxanthin keeps the eye healthier, and looking younger. ZEAXANTHIN AGAINST CATARACT: Our natural eye collects and focuses light on the retina, and to properly provide this function continuously, the lens must remain clear throughout life. A major cause of cataracts is oxidation of the lens, which clouds it. Antioxidant nutrients, like zeaxanthin and lutein neutralize the free radicals or the unstable molecules associated with this oxidative stress associated with retinal damage. Thus, these phytochemicals play a role in cataract prevention. Higher dietary intakes of vitamin E, zeaxanthin and lutein can considerably reduce the risk of cataract formation. ZEAXANTHIN AGAINST AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD): Zeaxanthin and lutein reduces the risk of AMD. In fact, studies like AREDS2 (Age-Related Eye Disease Study) are being conducted with supplements containing ten mg lutein along with two mg zeaxanthin each day, how it affects or lowers the chance of developing this degeneration. FOOD SOURCES OF ZEAXANTHIN Zeaxanthin is naturally found in some green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach. Other sources of zeaxanthin include egg yolk, yellow squash and bell-peppers. This makes zeaxanthin available as a completely natural nutrient, with no side effects.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2559) GLUCOSAMINE: Origin and Action of Mechanism
Date:
February 06, 2012 01:08 PM
Glucosamine is an amino sugar made from glucose and amino acid glutamine. It is a monosaccharide that is found naturally in healthy joints, cartilages, ligaments, muscles and tendons. It helps in the formation and repair of cartilage and other body tissues. Glucosamine is available in the form of dietary supplements, cosmetics and sports drinks. Let us find out about the history of glucosamine and its role in repair and treatment of joint disorders. HISTORY of GLUCOSAMINE: Glucosamine was first discovered in 1876 by Dr. Georg Ledderhose. It was prepared by hydrolysis of chitin with Hydrochloric acid. Later on it was developed in sulphate blend. Since then, it has been studied multiple times and in multiple ways to find out its potent health benefits. It has been used clinically in Europe since 1960s. In 1971, researcher K. Karzel glucosamine HCl stimulated the production of glycosaminoglycan layer, which helps in protecting cartilages, ligaments and tendons from normal wear and tear. It became popular in United States in the mid 1990s with the publication of popular bestsellers such as 'The Arthritis Cure' by Jason Theodosakis. Now it has become the most popular selling dietary supplement with sales of $200 million per year. Glucosamine is naturally found in the body and can be synthetically made from the natural sources of chitin that is found in sea creatures such as shells of shell fish, bones and bone marrow. How does Glucosamine Works in reducing Joint pain? Our body's ability to produce glucosamine decreases as we age. Hence after any kind of injury cartilage, spinal discs and joints, the body may not be able to heal optimally. Aging and glucosamine depletion in the body leads to joint degradation. However, glucosamine supplementation can support cartilage and CT-integrity limiting degeneration. Glucosamine supplements do not work like NSAIDS, which are known to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects on the body. The exact mechanism of significant analgesic effect of glucosamine supplements is unknown but according to various studies, glucosamine has no effect on cyclooxygenase system. Studies have shown that glucosamine stimulates synthesis of proteoglycan in a dose dependent manner. It helps in stimulating the production of cartilaginous matrix, hence counteracting the degrading loss of cartilage in case of arthritis or injury. Several important studies demonstrate the role of glucosamine in stabilizing cell membranes, inhibit lysosomal enzymes and reduce the generation of oxygen free radicals by macrophages. It may inhibit interleukin 1 induced nitric oxide activity that leads to chondriotic cell death. Hence it increases aggrecanase activity that helps in preservation of proteoglycan. Glucosamine along with Chondroitin sulphate stimulates synthesis of cartilage precursors as well as synovial fluid. They also limit the degradation of existing cartilage in any loss of joint integrity. This non rapid acting drug has many beneficial effects in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. It is a powerful joint repairing supplement that rebuilds joint cartilage. Glucosamine supplements have been thoroughly evaluated to find out any potential side-effects. However, it has been proved that it does not have any of the side-effects of NSAIDS, surgery or opiods.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2555) How Can I Raise Blood Pressure Naturally?
Date:
October 18, 2011 05:25 PM
Overview One of the leading causes linked to most illnesses in some form or the other is an imbalanced blood pressure. Statistics have shown that 1 out of 3 adults in the US have imbalanced blood pressure. So much of our bodily functions rely on normal blood pressure to work well. Let us put it this way, if your blood pressure is higher than it is supposed to be that means it is giving your body more workload than it is supposed to have, so in turn what will happened is, your body’s degeneration will be amplified. A lot of your systems will be overworked, your heart will be overworked and eventually depending on the cause your arteries will take a beating causing other organ failures in more severe cases. Now on the other hand if blood pressure is too low, you may feel fatigued all the time, light headedness, dizziness, nausea, close to fainting or anxiety and these are all things that we want to avoid. Blood Pressure This is the process in which the blood is carried from the heart towards other parts of your body. This is done through blood vessels called arteries and ultimately blood pressure is defined as the force of the blood in which it pushes the arterial walls. How much pressure is experienced is also directly proportional to how much the heart beats per minute in other words blood pressure is also directly proportional to the rate of your heart beat. The faster it beats the higher your blood pressure is. The blood pressure form of measurement is based on systolic over diastolic rates. Simply put the systolic rate is when the heart pumps blood and the diastolic is when the heart is at rest in between pumps or beats and that is why the diastolic is usually lower than the systolic rate. With that said by now you probably are able to make the conclusion that blood pressure will be at its highest when you are active, nervous, or excited and on the other hand it is at its lowest when you’re a sleep. Why would you want to increase your blood pressure? Most of us will probably think that, that idea is ludicrous since most of us would like to avoid high blood pressure and a lot of us are taking medications to support that effort and do things like exercising and all the other stuff to help fight against high blood pressure. However there is also a problem when blood pressure is too low as stated above and that is why some people need to increase blood pressure. There are a couple of ways to do it. First and foremost is for you to make sure you are hydrated well. High liquid volume in the body will promote higher blood pressure. Second is to lie down and elevate your feet. This will increase the return of blood to the heart therefore increasing blood pressure. Eat smaller meals so that the body will not divert so much blood to your digestive tract for digestion. Some studies also have shown that small amounts of caffeine daily may help increase low blood pressure. You can also try herbs like bitter melon and yohimbe to elevate the heart rate. An elevated heart rate will effectively raise blood pressure. If you have low blood pressure or high, make sure you get tested every other day and record the results. Maintaining a BP level of 80/120 is optimal for good health.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2517) Free Radicals And Cancer, How Do I Combat Free Radicals?
Date:
October 12, 2011 01:09 PM
Free Radicals OverviewFree radicals, just the very sound of those words are so dreaded in so many consultation clinics around the country today, this substance has mainly been linked to cancer and its proliferation but what else is there to know about free radicals and cancer. This is what we will be looking at as we go along this article. These free radicals are organic molecules which are primarily the cause for aging, damaged tissues, and a variety of diseases. The main property that causes them to bind with other molecules in the body there by causing damage is because it is unstable. This is the non-stop process that these molecules will do, destroy cells, takes away its vigor and initiate this pro aging process. In a way it is the natural order of things, our world is filled with so many unstable molecules and just like us, there survival instincts kick in and they have to keep stable. Outside the body, that’s all good, no harm for us, but when the same process occurs inside that’s where our own survival instincts come in and helps us think of ways to stop this process of degeneration. With this degeneration process of cells being damaged, it is not far fetch to see these free radicals as the cause of some disease most especially Cancer. Cancer Cancer has been a close second as the top killing disease in America for the past few years now, 2011 is not over yet so there is no ranking out but my guess is, the top 2 will most likely be the same with number one still being heart disease. Cancer is basically characterized by out of control cell growth. There are many classifications of cancer and one thing remains constant, it is characterized or named based on what type of cells it began to damage to cause the eventual cancer. For many of us out there what we do not want to here are malignant tumors in the body and this can occur based on 2 things, when cancerous cells spreads around the body through the bloodstream which is often referred to as an invasion process and the second is when the cancerous cells divide and grow leaving tissues metastasized in a process called mestastasis. Tumors grow and uncontrollably which are lumps of masses that interfere with our normal bodily functions and causes systems to crash like our digestive and nervous systems just to name a few.
The Answer:AntioxidantAntioxidants has been well known to be one of the best ways to fight cancer, present in many foods, these molecules does its handy work against cancer by going to the source. More research needs to be done in its healing effects but as an effective treatment it has been proven to be an integral part in minimizing further proliferation of damaged cells. Antioxidants have been shown to have an amazing characteristic against free radicals and that it plays an integral role in killing these cell damaging molecules in the body. List of antioxidants:
This by far a complete list, but it will get you get started with an antioxidant program to help prevent disease caused by free radical damage.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2502) How Does Lutein Help Fight Against Macular Degeneration?
Date:
August 19, 2011 01:11 PM
Lutein from the Latin meaning of yellow, luteus, is a xanthophyll and is a naturally-occurring carotenoid. It is abundant in leafy vegetables which are green in color like spinach and kale. Lutein can also be found in egg yolks and is also present in plants as a fatty-acid tester and most of all, it can be found in the retina and concentrated in the macula, which is a small area of the retina mainly responsible for central vision. This helps the eyes to be protected from oxidative stress and blue light photons with high energy. Eye Health
Several studies have found that an increase in macula pigmentation helps decreases the risk for eye diseases and one of them is Age-related Macular Degeneration(AMD). Some concluded that visual activity is improved with lutein supplementation alone or lutein together with other nutrients. Other studies also show that AMD seemed to be directly related to having low carotenoids in the body. It does follow in this It commonly follows that this daily attention to the diet to get all the required lutein for our body is where supplementation suggestion comes in since many are not able to do so especially for people around the age group of 70 and up where the attention needed is just too taxing. And since failure to have sufficient lutein is not acceptable for these people with a high risk of AMD or those already with AMD but hopes to slow it down or even stop the progression of the decease, supplementation is a viable and reliable way to assure sufficient lutein intake. This would eventually lead to increases in blood serum levels that would be equal to a diet sufficient of high lutein foods. However it’s worthy to note that risk reduction does not equate to a cure because once macular degeneration has started there is no way to reverse it. But reduction of risk may be an implication of prevention for some people. Further research needs to be done. However in terms of prevention before the decease starts, results have been promising.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2400) Gooseberry Benefits Vision, Blood Sugar, Cholesterol And More
Date:
April 09, 2011 11:17 AM
Gooseberry And Your Health.Gooseberry is a group of fruit-bearing plant species that belong to the same family as currants. They are easily recognizable by their round berries that are either bright green or deep purple in color. While most of the cultivars produce fruits that are bitter in taste, gooseberries are often added to desserts and preserved as jam or pickle. They are an excellent source of many nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B complex, phosphorous, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium, among others. Herbalists believe that the vitamin and mineral content of gooseberries do not significantly change after washing, heating, and other cooking preparations. Different varieties of gooseberries are widely distributed across the Old World, with species native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. The American species are also considered indigenous to North America although many dispute this claim. Each species have been linked to varying herbal remedies, but they all have similar genetic traits and nutrient contents. European and American cultivars are known for the following uses: Counters Visual Decline Gooseberry is often associated with the improvement of eyesight. There have been numerous articles about its medicinal potential in the treatment of cataracts, myopia or nearsightedness, and macular degeneration. The fruits are indeed a good source of biological precursors of vitamin A, and the juice extracted from the fruits are believed to contain phytochemicals that contribute to the upkeep of healthy cells found in the human eye. Reduces Blood Sugar Almost all varieties of gooseberry are believed to lower blood glucose levels. Proponents of its use as a therapeutic remedy for hyperglycemia point to the modulating effects of its organic compounds and metabolites on the hormone insulin. Gooseberry appears to increase production of insulin and improve glucose sensitivity of cells, the reason why it is also in use in conjunction with other common treatments for type 2 diabetes. Promotes Cardiovascular Health The organic compounds naturally occurring in gooseberry have been observed to show cardioprotective properties. First, they help lower serum cholesterol by interfering with the release of low-density lipoproteins, or bad cholesterol, from the liver. Second, they relax the smooth muscle cells within blood vessel walls, resulting in increased blood flow. Third, they strengthen heart muscles, promoting heart health. Improves Hair Loss The buzz around the ability of gooseberry products to control hair is supported by very encouraging results. It is believed that topical applications containing gooseberry extracts act on hair follicles, or hair roots, the part of the scalp that grow hair. Practitioners of folk medicine in Europe and Asia usually boil gooseberries, add the pulp to other ingredients to make paste, and apply the paste to the scalp. Scavenges Free Radicals Gooseberries are rich in polyphenols, with different species containing flavonoids, tannins, lignans, or their combination. Plant-based polyphenols are known for their antioxidant properties, which of course is important to neutralizing free radicals. Gooseberry is historically noted for its anti-aging effects, and modern research support this centuries-old with the discovery of its polyphenolic antioxidants. Give Gooseberry A Try Today!
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2269) What Does The Ayurvedic Herb Amla Do For The Body?
Date:
February 22, 2011 02:25 PM
Alma And Your Health
Amla is an herb famed for its high content of antioxidants, notably vitamin C. The berries, which are utilized as a source of food and in the production of dietary supplement, come from the plant species Phyllanthus emblica, or more commonly identified as Emblica officinalis, but other parts of the plants such as the leaves and bark have also been used in preparations in treatment of various diseases. Also known as Indian gooseberry in the vernacular, amla is an important herbal remedy in Ayurvedic medicine, a system of medical practices native to India. It is also extensively used in Unani practices, which cover the countries of the Middle East, largely owing to the influence of earlier Hippocratic medicine on the region. Scavenges Free Radicals Amla is touted to be among the fruits that contain exceptionally high concentrations of vitamin C. The berries yield up to 445mg per 100g, which is at least 20 times higher than the ascorbate content of oranges. In addition, the plant produces a unique free cascading antioxidant now called emblicanin, purported to have very strong antioxidant properties, seeking out free radicals and effectively scavenging large numbers by converting into another form of antioxidant after neutralizing the first. As you might already know, free radicals significantly contribute to the process of aging by producing effects related to oxidation. While the body manufactures endogenous agents that come to its defense, it has long been discovered that free radicals are able to multiply at an exponential rate and cause irreversible damage at the cellular level. This is the reason why supplementation of vitamin C as well as other antioxidants is advocated by the scientific community.
One of the studies concerning amla that have promising preliminary results is its use as a therapeutic remedy for elevated levels of blood cholesterol. There have been reports that the high density of tannins in amla is responsible for its effects on the production of low-density lipoproteins in the liver. These lipoproteins, notoriously labeled as bad cholesterol, is the main transports of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream and in the process gets attracted to the arterial walls, resulting in buildup of plaques associated to atherosclerosis and related heart diseases. Inhibits Bone Resorption Amla has also shown to have an effect on osteoclasts, which is involved in the degeneration of bone and cartilage tissues related to osteoporosis and many cases of arthritis. Intake of amla has been observed to induce death in osteoclasts and alter the gene expression in osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone resorption. That being said, it prevents further damages to bone and joints in patients of arthritis and osteoporosis. There have been many scientific researches concerning the age-old applications of amla in many common ailments, such as fever, cough and colds, and constipation, age-related diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, and even enhancing the memory. Most of these studies are limited to India and has largely drawn on anecdotal evidence of the local communities.
If you want to give your body a health boost, try the Ayurvedic herb Alma today!
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2242) Did You Know without Magnesium, You Could not Survive?
Date:
February 16, 2011 02:04 PM
Magnesium and your HealthMagnesium is vital to life on all levels. All types of cells in all organisms must maintain a balance of magnesium to support life as we know it, and its presence in human beings is ubiquitous at a cellular level. Low levels of magnesium have been tied to a number of medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and osteoporosis whereas excesses are known to impair functions of tissues and organs, notably nerves cells and the kidneys. Supplies the Human Body with Energy Glucose is best known as the primary source of energy of most multicellular organisms, including of course human beings, while adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, is the form of energy yielded by the utilization of glucose within the cells. All forms of carbohydrates and fats from our diet must be broken down into simpler compounds to be able to be converted into ATP that powers cellular activities. That being said, ATP requires magnesium in its participation in a number of physiological functions. What we refer to as ATP in fact contains ions of magnesium, for the former must be chemically bound to the latter to perform its role in interactions with protein kinases. In fact, it is a common observation that magnesium almost always acts as the functional regulator in the binding of proteins with ATP. Participates in Enzymatic Reactions More or less 300 hundred enzymes in the body are dependent on ATP, which we refer to as coenzyme, a kind of chemical compound that binds to protein. Magnesium acts as glue that keeps the enzymes and ATP together, aiding in the catalytic activities brought about by the enzymes and their utilization of ATP. Thus, the metabolic pathways that employ these enzymes rely on the presence of magnesium. One example of the interaction of ATP with proteins that necessitate magnesium as a divalent cation, in other words functional regulator, is in enzymes that modify the molecular structure of other proteins. These enzymes are transcribed in more than 500 protein genes and affect up to 30 per cent of all proteins in the human body. Moreover, magnesium plays a role in ribosome, the cellular component responsible for creation of RNA copies and the manufacture of proteins.
Magnesium Facilitates Absorption of CalciumOver 60 per cent of magnesium in the body is stored in the bones, and this fact has become the basis of the recent trend of dietary supplements that utilize magnesium to induce healthy bone density. Indeed low levels of magnesium has been reported to contribute to the degeneration of bones as we age, resulting in porous bone particles in a medical condition called osteoporosis. Prevents Ailments of the Circulatory System Since magnesium is essentially everywhere in the body, it significantly impacts the overall health of the circulatory system, notably in the prevention of heart diseases. Not surprisingly, insufficient levels of magnesium have been documented to cause cardiovascular problems, including hypertension and congestive heart failure, and supplementation of magnesium has been noted to cut complications of preexisting circulatory conditions. Have you had your magnesium today?
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2238) Lycopene - A Powerful antioxidant with great promise
Date:
December 10, 2010 06:11 PM
Lycopene
Lycopene is a tetraterpene carotene that is largely responsible for the red color of tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables such as carrots and papayas, although it is not a form of Vitamin A as other carotenes are. It is responsible for the production of the pigment beta-carotene which does have Vitamin A activity, and that is also found in carrots and similarly colored foodstuffs. The health benefits of lycopene have been studied in relation to its possible antioxidant activity and its effect on atherosclerosis and other conditions of the cardiovascular system, and also in its potential anti-cancer properties. Although these properties are still under investigation, there is traditional and anecdotal evidence that is can be used to ward of cancer, heart disease and macular degeneration, a degenerative condition of the retina that results in loss of central vision. It can be taken as a supplement as a form of insurance, even though the firm medical evidence for its use has yet to be established. While not claiming this to be the case with lycopene, many such traditional uses have eventually been proved to have a firm foundation in science, and many of the initial results and studies with lycopene are tending that way.
The Antioxidant Properties of LycopeneCarotenoids tend to possess antioxidant properties, and lycopene is as much a carotenoid as the powerfully antioxidant beta-carotene. The problem is that studies focusing specifically on lycopene are rare, and that while such properties can be assumed by association, they have not been conclusively proved for lycopene. Nevertheless, the health benefits of tomatoes are largely assumed to be due to their high lycopene content, particularly powerful when cooked.
These studies have been inconclusive, although everything is pointing toward lycopene being a powerful antioxidant displaying all the properties of Vitamin A and perhaps more. A lycopene supplement is believed to be safer than Vitamin A which can be toxic in large quantities (300,000UI +), and lycopene is used as an approved food coloring. Have you had your Lycopene today?
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2206) stroke, what is it?
Date:
September 28, 2010 03:05 PM
A stroke occurs when a clot forms inside an artery that blocks the flow of blood to the brain. This is also called a thrombus. Embolism, which is a wandering clot, is carried in the bloodstream until it wedges in one of the arteries that lead to the brain. Aneurysms are blood-filled pouches that balloon out from weak spots in the artery wall and burst. A hemorrhage results when a defective artery in the brain that bursts, flooding the surrounding tissue with blood. A mild attack can lead to temporary confusion and light-headedness, along with difficulty in speaking clearly, weakness on one side of the body, visual dimness and confusion, severe speech difficulties, and/or sudden or gradual loss or blurring of consciousness. Additionally, amnesia can occur, but it is not typically permanent. A coma can even result for short or long periods. It is important to watch for early warnings of stroke. Although they may only last a few moments, early warnings include fainting, stumbling, numbness or paralysis of the fingers of one hand, blurring of vision, seeing bright lights, and loss of speech or memory. It is much wiser and significantly less expensive to start improving health in order to prevent this disease. Some doctors who have treated thousands of people suffering from stroke believe that most strokes can typically be prevented. The Chinese often view strokes as being caused by blood stasis and stagnation of the liver. Chinese medical practitioners attempt to prevent strokes and treat them by treating constipation. Constipation causes a poisoned bloodstream, setting the stage for a possible stroke. Poisoned blood flows through thousands of miles of arteries, veins, and capillaries. The walls of the arteries are made up for cells, which are subject to the same injury from toxins as the cells in the kidneys. The kidneys degenerate at the same time that the arteries do and even from the same causes. When the walls thicken and harden, degeneration results. As they harden they become more brittle, causing them to burst more easily under pressure. Pressure increases as the hole through the arteries grows smaller. AS the walls become more brittle, the extra pressure causes the blood pressure to rupture. This, in turn, causes a stroke. The brain cells rely primarily on oxygen-rich blood in order to get nourishment. If they don’t receive this nourishment, the brain cells will die. Other causes of this are poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, and smoking. Emotional health is an essential part to any healing. Strokes are often associated with resistance to change, giving up on life, and getting tired of doing all the same things over and over. It is important that we learn to accept changes and are able to go with the flow of life. Life can be exciting. Changes provide us with a new perspective on living. Some herbs and supplements have been used to help as a preventative. These include vitamin E, vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, garlic, evening primrose oil, lecithin, chlorophyll, flaxseed oil, and germanium. For additional information on any of these, please contact a representative from your local health food store.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2188) Glucosamine and Joing Pain
Date:
April 05, 2010 04:34 PM
A decline in the amount of glucosamine production occurs along with the normal aging process. This compound is involved in the natural cushioning of the joints, which means that damage and pain can result from a lack of glucosamine. When the natural cushion is gone, the bone and cartilage may rest against each other, which in turn causes deterioration. Not only can this occur in the joints, but it can also occur in the spinal column.
Glucosamine sulfate has proven to be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. In fact, some have found that this treatment works better than conventional therapies. This is because it does more than just mask the pain. Rather, it actually aids in rebuilding and stimulating joint repair. Also, glucosamine Scientific evidence shows that glucosamine metabolism is altered when osteoarthritis is present within the body. It has been found that glucosamine supplements provide an effective treatment for this condition. Studies, up to this point, have found substantial improvement in those individuals who are treated with glucosamine. There is little risk, if any, involved in the use of glucosamine for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that this compound is very safe and does not possess any known precautions or risks. One study even determined that glucosamine sulfate has the ability to help stimulate the defense mechanisms that are present within the stomach lining. Pain and anti-inflammatory medications, on the other hand, often cause stomach problems such as ulcers.
Glucosamine sulfate has been shown to be an essential part in treating osteoarthritis. Scientific results showed significant improvement in swelling, pain, and degeneration of joints with the use of glucosamine sulfate. Not only is this compound important for reducing the symptoms that are involved with osteoarthritis, but the supplement has been found to actually reverse the degenerative process and induce healing. This compound should be considered to be a form of treatment for osteoarthritis.
It should be noted that when taking this, or any other supplement, one should consult their health care provider before beginning any type of supplementation. Glucosamine may not be recommended in some situations. Do not take glucosamine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. Similarly, be sure to consult your doctor first if you are breast feeding a baby. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by glucosamine, please feel free to contact a representative from your local health food store.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2135) Essential Enzymes Feel The Body To Good Health
Date:
March 19, 2010 07:08 PM
Most American diets are lacking in enzymes. The only way to get them is from live food or else through supplements. A mostly cooked-food diet needs a larger amount of enzymes from the digestive organs. This causes exhaustion and degeneration of the organs. The stress can be taken off of the pancreas and the entire system by supplementing with digestive enzymes. There are two types of enzymes: digestive and metabolic. The digestive enzymes work in the gastrointestinal tract to break down food into forms that can be assimilated and used by the body. Digestion takes up a lot of the body’s energy and needs the help of digestive enzymes in order to properly assimilate food. Overcooked food destroys enzymes. Additionally, foods may be lacking in enzymes due to pesticides, preservatives, pasteurization, and water containing chlorine. All of these are responsible for destroying enzymes. With age, our bodies manufacture fewer enzymes. It is necessary that the body has a proper balance of amino acids in order to manufacture enzymes. Metabolic enzymes work inside the cells in order to produce energy and detoxification. This type of enzyme is required for all bodily functions. Metabolic enzymes produce the energy that is required for the body to survive and thrive. A steady supply of enzymes is needed in order for complicated chemical reactions to occur in the body. Supplemental digestive enzymes should contain protease, which is responsible for breaking down protein into amino acids. Amylase is responsible for breaking down starch into sucrose, while lipase functions in the digestion of fats. Cellulase is needed to break down cellulose. Enzymes are responsible for improving the digestion and assimilation of food. They also help to improve assimilation of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids. They also help the body break down old encrusted material on the entire digestive system. Enzymes can be taken after meals in order to improve digestion. Additional enzymes are necessary in between meals so that they are able to penetrate into tissues and break down undigested protein that can cause disease. They may also help prevent conditions like cancer, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases. Supplemental enzymes are usually needed because of poor eating habits that deplete the body of its own enzyme reserve. Eating too much cooked food, processed food, wrong food combinations, pesticides, preservatives, and additives can lead to the destruction of essential enzymes. For more information on the many beneficial effects of enzymes, please contact a representative from your local or internet health food store.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2131) Ginkgo Biloba
Date:
October 01, 2009 11:57 AM
The ability of ginkgo to boost brain function has been studied extensively. Most importantly, ginkgo increases oxygen supply to brain cells, as the brain is the body’s most sensitive organ to oxygen deprivation. Additionally, ginkgo has been used to improve electrical transmission in nerves and supply more oxygen and nutrients to brain cells. The effect that ginkgo has on the brain and circulatory system disorders seems to be extremely promising for a variety of conditions. Ginkgo extract has also helped dementia that results from poor blood flow to the brain. Senile dementia is often recognized by depression, unusual fatigue, and memory problems. Ginkgo has the ability to help improve circulation to the brain tissue, which in turn improves brain function. Blood platelet aggregation, or clotting, can cause serious problems in the body. Among these are strokes, heart attacks, and coronary thrombosis. It has been found that ginkgo can reduce the tendency for platelets to stick together and prevent them from forming clots in the arteries and veins.
The brain and nervous system are extremely sensitive to free-radical damage because of the high percentage of unsaturated fatty acids. It has been found that ginkgo’s antioxidant activity is particularly powerful in these areas, along with the eye and retina. The leaves of the ginkgo plant are used to provide adaptogen, alterative, antioxidant, antiseptic, and stimulant properties. Primarily, ginkgo is extremely helpful in treating ADHD, Alzheimer’s disease, lack of attention span, blood clots, cardiovascular disorders, poor circulation, dementia, dizziness, edema, impotence, inflammation, ischemia, memory loss, lack of mental clarity, multiple sclerosis, muscular degeneration, PMS, Raynaud’s disease, senility, stress, stroke, and tinnitus. Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with allergies, angina, anxiety, arthritis, asthma, cancer, carpal tunnel syndrome, coughs, depression, lack of equilibrium, eye problems, hearing problems, hemorrhoids, lung disorders, migraines, mood swings, toxic shock syndrome, transplant rejection, varicose veins, vascular problems, and vertigo.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=2096) Lutein 20mg (FloraGlo)
Date:
September 26, 2008 03:49 PM
Maintains Healthy Visual Function* It has been well established that lutein is present in high concentrations in the retinal tissue of the human eye. However, a study was conducted in human volunteers to determine whether taking lutein in supplement form actually increased the density of the carotenoid pigments present in the macula. In this study of eight individuals, researchers estimated the density of the macular pigments prior to having each individual take 10 mg of lutein daily in supplement form for 12 weeks. Plasma lutein concentrations were measured at 4-week intervals. During the first four weeks of the study, plasma levels increased five-fold from pre-supplement measures, and then remained at this level for the duration of the study. It was also shown that, due to increased deposition of lutein in optical tissues, macular pigment density increased by an average of 5.3% at the 4-week mark, and continued to increase until the duration of the study.1 A study was also conducted to investigate the possible role of specific nutrients in protecting the lens of the eye against aging, a risk factor for compromised visual function. The study was comprised of 376 individuals aged from 18 to 75. Of the nutrients measured, it was found that the lenses of individuals with higher concentrations of lutein and zeaxanthin showed less of an effect from the aging process. The investigators concluded that these carotenoids might play a protective role in supporting the maintenance of healthy vision.2 The Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS) was a landmark study of the effects of diet and antioxidant supplementation on eye health. The study enrolled over 3500 subjects aged 55 to 80 years who were followed for approximately 6 years. Among the data collected in this multi-faceted study was a self-administered Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). The AREDS Report No. 22 examined the data from the FFQs and determined that, of the nutrients evaluated, only lutein and zeaxanthin were directly related to maintaining eye health with statistical significance3. These findings corroborated similar results of an earlier multi-center study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association that also found that those with a higher intake of lutein and zeaxanthin maintained healthier eye function.4 These promising results have spurred the design of a second major clinical trial (AREDS2), which is currently enrolling participants to study the impact of supplemental xanthophylls (FloraGLO® Lutein and zeaxanthin) and other nutrients on age-related eye health.5 In addition, a double-blind placebo controlled trial was performed in ninety individuals who had signs of compromised visual function. Individuals were divided into three groups and received either 10 mg FloraGLO® lutein, 10 mg FloraGLO® lutein plus a multivitamin/multimineral formulation, or placebo for 12 months. In both the FloraGLO® lutein and FloraGLO® lutein plus other nutrients groups, improvements were seen in mean eye macular pigment optical density, visual acuity and contrast sensitivity. No improvements were noted in the placebo group.6 These results demonstrate FloraGLO® lutein’s beneficial effect on maintaining healthy visual function. Newly published research has demonstrated that lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation may enhance visual performance under glare conditions. Forty healthy subjects took daily doses of 10 mg FloraGLO® Lutein plus 2 mg zeaxanthin for six months. They were evaluated for changes in macular pigment, glare disability and photostress recovery at the onset of the study, and at 1, 2, 4 and six months. After six months, subjects experienced an average increase in macular pigment optical density (MPOD) of 39% compared to baseline, and all but two participants experienced some increase in MPOD. This increase in MPOD was also directly related to measured improvements in visual performance after exposure to bright light, as well as photostress recovery.7 This study suggests another way in which lutein and zeaxanthin can help support optimal visual function in healthy individuals. Potent Antioxidant Protection* Most of the beneficial effects of lutein are ascribed to its potent free radical scavenging abilities. It is well-known that lutein is a carotenoid related to beta-carotene and possesses antioxidant activity against a number of reactive oxygen species.8 More direct evidence for the free radical scavenging activity of lutein is found in studies of its effects on human lens epithelial cells. Cell cultures were exposed to ultraviolet light after pretreatment with lutein or alpha-tocopherol. Both nutrients were found to reduce ultraviolet-induced damage to lens epithelial cells. However, lutein was shown to have significantly higher photoprotective activity than alpha-tocopherol9 demonstrating its potential as a high-powered antioxidant. A further review of the mechanisms of lutein in conferring a protective role reveals evidence for its antioxidant activity in various body tissues. Lutein has been shown to be an effective antioxidant in vitro as well as in experimental models of a number of body systems.10 Supports Healthy Skin* A recent randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study has demonstrated the positive effects of oral and topical administration of lutein on skin health parameters (surface lipids, hydration, photoprotective activity, skin elasticity and skin lipid peroxidation). Forty female subjects were divided into four treatment groups. Treatment options included oral administration of 5 mg of FloraGLO® Lutein twice daily or placebo and topical administration of 50 ppm FloraGLO® Lutein twice daily or placebo. Each treatment group received either an active oral treatment with a placebo topical treatment, a placebo oral treatment with an active topical treatment, both active treatments, or both placebo treatments. Statistically significant improvements were seen in all five parameters tested in all treatment groups compared to the group receiving only placebos. The greatest overall improvements were seen in the group receiving both active oral and topical treatments, while lesser but still significant improvement was seen in both the active oral only and the active topical only groups. Additionally, oral administration of lutein conferred superior photoprotective activity (as measured by skin surface redness after exposure to ultraviolet light) and prevention of lipid peroxidation (as indicated by levels of malondialdehyde in skin lipids after exposure to ultraviolet light) than either topical lutein or placebo.11 Diverse Cinical Benefits* Evidence from various experimental trials suggests that lutein may play a protective role on the circulatory and cardiovascular systems. Its antioxidant activity may also extend to the heart, skin, lungs and blood vessels, making it a nutrient with diverse clinical benefits. Lutein possesses the ability to promote the health of many body tissues.12 Suggested Adult Use: One softgel daily with food, or as directed by a health care professional. Does Not Contain: milk, egg, wheat, sugar, sweeteners, starch, salt, or preservatives. Scientific References 1. Berendschot TT, et al. Influence of lutein supplementation on macular pigment, assessed with two objective techniques. Invest Opthalmol Vis Sci. 2000 Oct; 41(11): 3322-6. 2. Berendschot TT, et al. Lens aging in relation to nutritional determinants and possible risk factors for age-related cataract. Arch Opthalmol. 2002 Dec; 120(12): 1732-7. 3. Age-Related Eye Disease Study Research Group. The relationship of dietary carotenoid and vitamin A, E, and C intake with age-related macular degeneration in a case-control study: AREDS Report No. 22. Arch Ophthalmol. 2007 Sep; 125(9): 1225-32. 4. Seddon JM, et al. Dietary Carotenoids, Vitamins A, C, and E, and Advanced Age-Related Macular Degeneration. JAMA. 1994 Nov; 272(18):1413-1420. 5. www.nei.nih.gov/neitrials/viewStudyWeb.aspx?id=120. Clinical Studies Database. Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2). Last Updated 2/28/2008. Viewed 5/15/2008. 6. Richer S, et al. Double-masked, placebo-controlled, randomized trial of lutein and antioxidant supplementation in the intervention of atrophic age-related macular degeneration: the Veterans LAST study (Lutein Antioxidant Supplementation Trial). Optometry. 2004 Apr; 75(4): 216-230. 7. Stringham JM and Hammond BR. Macular pigment and visual performance under glare conditions. Optom Vis Sci. 2008 Feb; 85(2):82-8. 8. “Lutein and Zeaxanthin”. PDR Health. www.gettingwell.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/lut_0164.shtml 9. Chitchumroonchokchai C, et al. Xanthophylls and alpha-tocopherol decrease UVB-induced lipid peroxidation and stress signaling in human lens epithelial cells. J Nutr. 2004 Dec; 134(12): 3225-32. 10. Krinsky NI. Possible biologic mechanisms for a protective role of xanthophylls. J Nutr. 2002; 132: 540S-542S. 11. Palombo P, et al. Beneficial Long-Term Effects of Combined Oral/Topical Antioxidant Treatment with the Carotenoids Lutein and Zeaxanthin on Human Skin: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2007; 20: 199-210. 12. Mares-Perlman JA, et al. The body of evidence to support a protective role for lutein and zeaxanthin in delaying chronic disease. Overview. J Nutr. 2002; 132: 518S-524S.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1901) EFA's - Essential Fatty Acids
Date:
September 15, 2008 09:42 AM
Many recent studies have found that EFAs may be extremely helpful for many chronic, stubborn conditions. Their continuously growing range of applications includes overcoming diseases such as alcoholism, breast cancer, and cardiovascular disease; strengthening the immune system; helping eliminate yeast infection; reducing symptoms of premenstrual syndrome; minimizing inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis; and assisting in the proper management of weight. Alcohol dependence is an extremely serious condition that often results in decreased life expectancy, suicide, degeneration of the brain and liver, osteoporosis, and many other conditions. For each person, the rate at which alcohol is metabolized in the body is different, as a lot of it has to do with the person's nutritional status, the concentration and activity of liver enzymes, and the rate at which alcohol is consumed. Alcoholics tend not to eat because the calories from alcohol, although nutrient-poor, diminish the appetite, causing many alcoholics to become extremely malnourished. An overall nutritional program should be employed to those people who are dependant on alcohol, which should include vitamins A, C, and B, complex, along with zinc, magnesium, selenium, amino acids, milk thistle, acidophilus, antioxidants, L-carnitine, and essential fatty acids. EFAs, especially those that are high in GLA, keep blood lipid levels from going out of control. The body's immune system has a vital role in protecting us against cancer, as it recognizes and annihilates any abnormal cells before they have the chance to multiply and do damage. When the immune system is overwhelmed or not functioning properly, abnormal cells will reproduce without having anything to stop them. Because of the rapidly growing tumors which have a huge appetite for nutrition to keep them going, cancer patients often become malnourished and lose weight. A diet that is rich in cruciferous vegetables, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, minerals, and essential fatty acids can help prevent breast cancer. Research shows that EFAs, especially GLA, have anti-tumor properties. All of the cells in the body have a dependence on nutrients that are transported through the circulatory network. When blood vessels become clogged with fats and cholesterol, nutrition distribution is hindered and blood flow can be stopped in some areas, causing the heart to die. Exercise is a good for increasing circulation and keeping the blood from getting stuck. A diet that is high fruits, vegetables, natural fiber, and low in saturated fats, meats, and homogenized dairy products is also a good idea. Additionally, antioxidants, hawthorn berry, ginkgo biloba, vitamin E, Co Q-10, L-carnitine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and EFAs will also be of benefit to the cardiovascular system. Essential fatty acids have been shown to stop the growth of yeast organisms in the body. They do so by helping the oxygen to flow to cells. Since yeast is anaerobic, it cannot thrive in the presence of oxygen. Yeast overgrowth can cause a variety of symptoms that are often diagnosed as another condition, ranging from joint swelling to memory loss. PMS is a collection of symptoms that occurs one to two weeks before menstruation, affects about one-third of women who are younger than forty. It is caused by hormone imbalances, which result in anxiety, irritability, and mental sluggishness. Research has found that women with PMS usually eat more refined carbohydrates, dairy products, and sodium, and less iron and other minerals than those women who do not experience this condition. Vitamin B complex, beta carotene, vitamin E, magnesium, milk thistle, acidophilus, and essential fatty acids are very helpful for PMS. Essential fatty acids, especially GLA, are helpful in balancing the body's hormone levels. Reducing symptoms of disease like arthritis or PMS is important to all those who suffer from them. EFA's can help reduce the symptoms of these diseases. American diets are low in EFA's and one should consume them either in the foods they eat or supplement form to help the body strengthen its self and fight off disease.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1890) Bilberry
Date:
August 30, 2008 09:43 AM
Bilberry is a part of the herb world that has recently begun re-emerging because of recent scientific discoveries linking the fruit to therapeutic properties in blood vessel-related disorders. If you happen to suffer from any disorder that is related to weaken blood vessels, then you should definitely think about bilberry as part of your treatment, as it can be safe and extremely effective. Bilberry is a rich source of anthocyanidins, which gives it the unique ability to stabilize and protect collagen stores. This helps to prevent capillary leakage and hemorrhage. Bilberry is currently being used to treat vascular and blood disorders, and is also a main ingredient in the treatment of many visual problems. It has even been proven effective for varicose veins, thrombosis, diabetes, macular degeneration, and angina. Thanks to its rich amounts of anthocyanosides, bilberry is an extremely valuable treatment for a variety of disorders in which leaky veins cause tissue damage. Containing over 15 different anthocyanosides, bilberry protects the veins and arteries, as it boosts a great deal of physiological processes that results in the improved integrity of capillary walls. Additionally, anthocyanosides prevent platelets from sticking to the walls of vessels, which helps to prevent the formation of blood clots. Bilberry has shown healing properties including: analgesic, anti-arthritic, anti-clotting, antiulcer, anti-edemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-osteotic, cyclooxygenase inhibitor, inhibits collagenase, inhibits elastase, lipoxygena, smooth muscle relaxant, lowers blood sugar, and vasodilator. With more than 100 names from around the world, bilberry also can be known by: huckleberry, whortleberry, European blueberry, myrtle bilberry, myrtle blueberry, myrtle whortleberry, Rocky Mountain whortleberry, red whortleberry, black grouseberry, low bilberry, mountain blueberry, huckleberry, and blueberry. Bilberry is a perennial shrub that can be commonly found in many different climates around the world that are characterized by damp woodlands and moorlands in northern Europe, northern regions of America, and parts of Canada. Bilberry grows as a small shrub with wiry, angular branches that do not usually grow over a foot high. The branches of bilberry bear waxy flowers and black berries that are covered with a grey bloom when they are ripe. The leather-like leaves of bilberry are initially rose color, but turn to a yellowish-green in the summer and a fiery red in the autumn. Growing abundantly in areas of England and flourishing best on high ground in the north and west regions of Britain, bilberry possesses a round fruit or berry that has a flat top and is approximately the size of a black currant, with a taste that is slightly acidic. The berry bushes prefer filtered shade and moist, fertile soil that is acidic and non calcareous. The bilberry plant is related most closely to blueberries and currants, all of which belong to the genus Vaccinium. Bilberries are rich in carbohydrates, tannin, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It also contains glucoquinine, which is able to lower blood sugar.
Finally, bilberry is considered an astringent; it exhibits antibacterial properties in the intestines. Bilberry’s analgesic properties are often thought to come from chlorogenic-acid and ferulic-acid content. Bilberry contains copper, quercetin, linoleic-acid, magnesium, pantothenic acid, ursolic acid, and zinc. This herb is good for the parts of the body that contain small fragile blood vessels such as the eyes and this is why this herb is associated with promoting eye health.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1878) Gac Fruit Oil
Date:
August 25, 2008 07:04 PM
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.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1874) Trace Minerals
Date:
August 05, 2008 01:13 PM
Unlike macro-minerals such as calcium, which the body needs in gram amounts, trace minerals such as iron, selenium, zinc, silicon, chromium, sulfur, and copper are only needed in milligram or micrograms. However, these small quantities do not reflect the importance of trace minerals, as inadequate intake can have huge effects on the body. Lets discuss a few of these trace minerals. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, with 20 to 50 percent of people affected. The average body contains only one teaspoon of iron, but this mineral is crucial in oxygen transportation throughout the bloodstream and into cells. A lack of iron will starve the body of oxygen and energy, which cause the symptoms of iron deficiency to be fatigue, foggy thinking, irritability, headaches, and lethargy. A lot of athletes have inadequate iron intake, impairing their exercise performance as it decreases hemoglobin levels and the amount of oxygen that is delivered to the muscles while it increases the time that is needed to recover from exercise. Iron is also important in immunity, with optimal iron intake strengthening the immune system and building resistance to colds, infections, and diseases. Even though inadequate intake is a common concern, too much can also cause health problems including stomach and intestinal cramps, nausea, and constipation. The most important function of selenium is its antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. This enzyme is invaluable in protecting red blood cells and cell membranes from free radical damage. Selenium works closely with vitamin E, sometimes replacing it in certain situations. Selenium holds an important role in maintaining the immune system and has been shown to reduce the risk of many health problems which include several types of cancer, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain birth defects. Zinc is a valuable antioxidant that supports many aspects of the immune system. Zinc works in the eyes to protect them against sunlight-related free radicals. Zinc supplements have been found to slow the progression of macular degeneration, but high intakes of zinc and other antioxidants have been shown to lower the risk of developing this eye disease in the first place. This mineral can reduce the severity and duration of the common cold when in lozenge form, if started within 24 hours of the first cold symptom and taken every couple of hours. Taking 50mg of zinc daily or higher amounts for short periods of time is a good idea, but amounts over 150mg daily could cause metallic taste, stomach upset, or impair immune function. Many modern diets contain extremely low amounts of silicon, especially since food processing removes much of the silicon. Silicon improves the elasticity and suppleness to skin that has been damaged by excessive skin exposure. Silicon is also important in natural bone formation, since deficiencies in silicon lead to bone weakness and sluggish wound health. Bone mineral density can be improved in people with osteoporosis by raising the intake of silicon. Chromium is important in maintaining blood sugar levels, as well as many other roles in the body. Chromium deficiency impairs the blood sugar-insulin relationship, while chromium supplementation improves insulin response. Studies have shown that supplementing with chromium picolinate improves diabetes management by lowering blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol, or triglyceride levels and reducing the reliance on blood sugar medications. This mineral is also important in the metabolism of fat and carbohydrates. Finally, Sulfur is needed in the joints to keep the connective tissues within them strong and stable. One source of sulfur, MSM, has been shown to significantly relieve pain and improve use of knee joints in studies. Through all of the above, one can see that trace minerals are extremely important contributors to health, even in small amounts.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1853) Ashwagandha
Date:
June 02, 2008 12:03 PM
Stress is part of life and is as natural as breathing and blinking. Everyone experiences stress to some degree at different times in their lives; some more than others. Chronic stress, if left unchecked, can cause significant health problems. Causes of Stress Life changes are big stressors. Whether it's a new job, getting a divorce, having a baby or retiring, changes can cause stress. Stress becomes a factor in our health, especially as we grow older. The body doesn't function as well as it once did. Suddenly, you have trouble sleeping, your sex drive diminishes and aches and pains set it. Stress occurs in many forms. Stress on an emotional level is caused by personal problems, thoughts and relationships. Illness causes stress too. Working long hours or having a lot of demands placed on your time can leave you feeling drained and sick. Hormones play a role in stress, as well. Whether you are experiencing temporary or life changes, it takes a toll on your body in the form of stress. Learn How to Fight Back Against Stress If stressful life changes get you down, fight back with ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is a tomato-like shrub grown in India. It is also referred to as the Indian ginseng and the winter cherry. The herbs from these trees have been used for 2,500 years as a natural medicine. Benefits of Using Ashwagandha Herbs Ashwagandha herbs not only help to reduce stress from your busy life, they also have a natural healing effect on the body. This flowering shrub is used as an herbal medicine to aid the body in many ways:
* Boosts immunity The benefits that ashwagandha provides promote overall health and well-being. The herb helps to reduce stress on the body, both physically and mentally. Ashwagandha is especially helpful for people with insomnia, low libido, depression, arthritis and anxiety. The Sexual Healing Power of Ashwagandha The ashwagandha herb acts as an aphrodisiac. It works on low libido and can help men regain their stamina and confidence in the bedroom. Since it helps in so many other areas of your health, like reducing stress and anxiety, it gives men a newfound sense of sexuality. You also can consider ashwagandha as a natural Viagra. As with any prescription drug, Viagra has side effects that accompany its intended use. Vision problems, sneezing, flushing and headaches are fairly common for men who take Viagra to enhance their sex drive. Less common side effects include stroke, heart palpitations and heart attacks. You can receive the benefits of the little blue pill without the side effects by taking ashwagandha. Take Advantage of the Healing Power of Ashwagandha Tackle the stress of life changes by adding ashwagandha to your diet. Allow this natural herb to give you a sense of calm. Let it work on your nervous system to reduce the feelings of stress. Everyone feels stress at times, but the effects of stress can be better managed with ashwagandha.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1807) Shark Cartilage
Date:
April 30, 2008 03:03 PM
Sharks do not have skeleton of bone but of cartilage, which is a dense form of connective tissue. Its main components are cells known as chondrocytes that are responsible for producing collagen fibers, an elastic protein called elastin that is responsible for the skin returning to its original shape after being pinched, and ground substance that is rich in proteoglycan, a protein with glycosaminoglycan chains. Shark cartilage is said to be beneficial in the treatment of many conditions including arthritis, psoriasis (allied to arthritis), rheumatism, eczema, acne, allergies and the most controversial – cancer. It is said to inhibit tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenesis – the formation of new blood vessels by growing them from old ones. This can lead to metastasis, or the spread of cancer between organs and also feed the cancer cells with blood. Shark cartilage has been used medicinally for thousands of years, particularly in ancient China where its use is documented, and might also have been in other areas where the consumption of fish was high. However, the production of shark cartilage and its trade is not well documented. The major cartilage consuming countries are Australia, India, Japan and the USA, although it is used or consumed in many other countries, especially Hong Kong, Taiwan, China and, increasingly, Europe. The best quality of cartilage is from the blue shark due to its higher chondroitin quality. Chemically, chondroitin is an acid mucopolysaccharide, and a very large molecule that is used for a variety of purposes. In arthritis it is difficult to get it to the source of the problem due to its physical size and large doses are used to ensure that at least a proportion passes through the capillaries to the joints. Arthritis is a particularly prevalent disease and comes in two forms: osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis develops over a long period of time, and generally the cartilage roughens and becomes thin, while the bone becomes thinner. Extra synovial fluid, that lubricates the joint, can be formed and that causes swelling. The bone tried to repair itself, but degeneration continues and the tendons become affected. Eventually inflammation can occur leading to severe swelling and pain. There are several causes, the most common being injury or repetitive hard use of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is completely different, and is caused by the immune system rather than wear and tear. The immune system mistakes parts of your joints as being foreign, and attacks the synovial membrane, or lining of the joint. It might also attack the sheath around the tendons. This eventually causes the cartilage to thin and the joints to wear, and the inflammatory response can cause painful inflammations. There is no apparent cause, though heredity, lifestyle and hormones might all be connected. The effect of shark cartilage on arthritis is well documented, and in one study in the 1970s, only 11% of patients did not respond well to a treatment of cartilage injections. The pain relief the injections provided lasted from six weeks to over a year, though no reason could be provided for the vast difference. However, it did seem to demonstrate that the remedy was more than just a placebo. In another study involving bedridden osteoarthritis patients, eight out of ten could leave their beds after only three weeks of oral cartilage treatment. Shark cartilage appears to be effective when administered both intravenously and orally. In a later placebo study involving 147 arthritis patients, they were given either shark cartilage or a placebo. Those with the placebo were encouraged to use other treatments when their pain became severe. After five years the placebo group reported a 5% drop in pain scores compared to 85% of the group taking shark cartilage. The joint deterioration in each group was assessed, and was considerably less in the cartilage group, who also lost less time at work through pain. All of these results indicate that shark cartilage can be used to relieve osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis pain in at least 60% of sufferers. Since rheumatoid arthritis has been linked to psoriasis, this could also explain its effects on psoriasis. What the studies did indicate is that you need not wait five years to find if the treatment is effective or not: if you do not experience positive results within between four and six weeks, then shark cartilage treatment will likely not work for you. There is no doubt that shark cartilage can provide relief to painful, swollen joints, and this is likely due to the mucopolysaccharides. It can also prevent the undesirable growth of new blood vessels into the cartilage and appears to help to regulate the immune system. These are also two of the reasons why it is believed by some to be an effective treatment for cancer by preventing metastasis. It was the publication of the book “Sharks Don’t get Cancer” that started the rush for shark cartilage as a a treatment for cancer, but the problem is that sharks do get cancer – they even get cancer of the cartilage! However, that does not mean that the scientific reasons for the inhibition of metastsis are invalid. They are valid, and it is metastsis rather than the original cancer that ferquently leads to death. Metastsis is the spread of the disease round the body by the bloodstream, and shark cartilage appears to be able to help to prevent that. It also prevents the growth of blood cells into cancerous areas to feed the cancers with oxygen and other nutrients. Although there are few reported side effects of shark cartilage, in the interest of safety it is advised that children and pregnant women should avoid it. The same is true of people recovering from recent surgery since it could slow healing due to its effect on repairing blood vessels. If you have a low white blood cell count, do not have a shark cartilage enema since it can cause a potentially fatal infection.
Otherwise it should be safe to take, and is available in many forms including creams, capsules, powders and injections. The recommended dosage is 1 gram dried shark cartilage for each 7 Kg (15 lb) body weight. Once you begin to see an effect on the pain of your arthritis, one can then try to reduce the dose to 1 gram for each 18 Kg (40 lb) body weight.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1778) Bilberry Extract Is A Powerful Antioxidant That Strengthens Veins
Date:
April 12, 2008 11:06 AM
Bilberry extract is taken from the Vaccinium myrtillus, or bilberry, a small blue berry that has been used traditionally for the treatment of conditions now known to be due to inflammation and the action of free radicals on the body. Among these is atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, caused by the free radical oxidation of the low density lipids that carry cholesterol around the bloodstream, and that cause deposition of fatty plaques on the arterial walls and eventually constricts them to a stage that can cause heart failure or a stroke, depending on whether the arteries are close to the heart or in the brain. However, additional to treating this condition, bilberry has also traditionally been used for the treatment of varicose veins and also for certain eye conditions. In fact it was during the Second World war that the Royal Air Force in Britain received reports from pilots that their night vision improved after eating bilberries. Not only their vision, but the restoration of night vision after exposure to glare. This was extremely important to war-time pilots who had to be able to rapidly adapt their vision to fly their plane after exposure to searchlights and explosive detonations. That is the reason for anything that appeared to promote this essential adaptation to be reported. The pharmacology of these effects have been found to be due to the anthocyanosides in which bilberries are particularly rich. Anthocyanosides consist of an anthocyanaidin backbone, to which one of either arabinose, galactose or glucose can be bound. Since bilberry contains five of these anthocyanadins, then there are fifteen different anthocyanosides in the fruit concentrate. The area of the retina that appears to control night vision, and the transition from day to night sight, is called the epithelium which is connected with purple vision. Anthocyanosides seem to have an affinity for this part of the retina, and in so doing plays an important part in this type of vision, specifically night vision although it is also beneficial in improving day vision. Although bilberry also contains vitamins A and C, hydroquinone and tannins, it is the anthocyanosides that provide it with its unique antioxidant properties, and also its effect upon collagen fibers. It can cross-link collagen fibers to help overcome weaknesses in the connective tissues such as cartilage, tendons and the walls of blood vessels. Its effect as an antioxidant is to prevent the cleavage of collagen by the cyzymes that are secreted by leukocytes generated by the immune system. By preventing histamine release, and release of prostaglandins and other proteins and cells mobilized during the immune inflammatory response to the detection of foreign invasion into human tissue, anthocyanosides can help to reduce inflammation and to protect against other extreme reactions of the immune system that can harm the organism it evolved to protect. The most powerful property of anthocyanosides are their antioxidant properties: perhaps even its only property once all of the conditions it helps to protect against are fully understood. An antioxidant combines with free radicals and destroys them. Free radicals are particularly vile chemical entities that require an electron to make them stable, and they take this electron from the nearest source. This can result in oxidation and destruction of many bodily tissues leading to premature aging, atherosclerosis, eye damage and many other problems that result from the destruction of body cells and tissue. The various constituents that make up bilberry act in concert to scavenge the free radicals and increase the supply of oxygen to the eye. The benefits of this are in helping to prevent cataracts and glaucoma, the latter due to the effect of the anthocyanoside cross-linking effect on the structure of the collagen in the eye. It can also help in cases of macular degeneration that affects the central area of the retina which might be due to the same property of there glucoside. Moving away from the eyes and back to the vascular system, the collagen cross-linking properties of the flavonoids, which is what anthocyanosides basically are, can help to repair damaged vein tissue by strengthening the vein walls themselves, and also by providing support for the cell membranes, or outer layers of the cells. This in turn builds up more strength in the vein tissue below the outside walls and contributes to an overall reduction in the weakness of the vein. This in turn enables it better to withstand the internal pressure put upon it by the failure of the valve that created the problem. In this way bilberries can be used to help repair the damage done by varicose veins and improve the function of the vein in returning blood to the heart from the extremities of the legs and also to help reduce the pain and swelling of varicose veins. In addition to these beneficial effects on the vascular system and the eyes, bilberry can also help to decrease the permeability of the blood-brain barrier to pollutants, drugs and other undesirable chemicals by improving the resistance of the capillaries in the brain to the transfer of such substances through their walls. It does so by preventing the collagen of the capillaries in the brain being degraded either by enzymes or other agents, Also, by helping to strengthen that collagen structure so that it becomes more impermeable to the larger molecules that form the pollutants. A lesser known constituent of bilberry is myrtillin, an anthocyanoside monoglucoside that is also available in all green plants, that possesses anti-glycemic properties. What this means is that it can reduce hyperglycemia and glycosurea, and so reduce blood sugar without reducing the blood sugar level to dangerously low levels. In other words it is an ideal insulin substitute. Native Americans used green plants for teas for centuries and were free from diabetes until the came into contact with Europeans and adopted their dietary habits. Although the case has to be proved, it appears highly likely that it was the myrtillin that kept them free from a condition that affects so many other races. Irrespective of that, however, it is for its powerful antioxidant effect that bilberry finds its best use, and also its effects on varicose veins. However, all of the above health benefits that bilberry provides, can likely be laid at the door of the combined antioxidant effect of its vitamin C content and the anthocyanosides – including the glucoside myrtillin.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1753) Ubiquinol Reduced CoQ10
Date:
April 07, 2008 01:05 PM
Ubiquinol, which is the reduced from of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), has been recently added to the supplement offerings of many companies and has generated a lot of confusion along with its excitement. As a supplement, ubiquinol is somewhat new, but as a critical part of human metabolism, our knowledge of ubiquinol goes back to the discovery of CoQ10. Although CoQ10 is often thought of as a “static” nutrient in the context of nutrition, it actually interchanges between two useful states: the oxidized ubiquinone, and the reduced ubiquinol. Coenzyme Q10 is a member of a family of important biological compounds which are referred to as ubiquinones. It is a lipophilic, water-insoluble substance, which takes part in a large array of biochemical oxidation and reduction reactions. It was first identified in 1957 as an essential component of the energy production system in cells. CoQ10 and other members of the ubiquinone family have, since then, been identified as critical metabolic compounds in a range of aerobic organisms. Because of its crucial role in metabolism, humans have the ability to make their own CoQ10, although small amounts can be obtained through diet and as supplements. In humans, CoQ10 is found in each cell in the body, but is particularly abundant in tissues which have large energy requirements such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and skeletal muscles. Smaller amounts can be found in the brain, lungs, and intestines. There are also substantial amounts that can be found in circulation, which are most often associated with lipoprotein particles. In total, CoQ10 in a normal adult has been estimated to be between 0.5 and 1.5 grams. Inside cells, about half of the CoQ10 is found within the mitochondria, where the final steps of CoQ10 production occur. CoQ10 which is not located in areas of the cell and are not charge with producing cellular energy can amount to about 50-60 percent of the total CoQ10 pool. CoQ10 can be found throughout cell membranes and in other cellular structures such as the nucleus, cytoplasm, and endoplasmic reticulum. Some experimentation has also concluded that, while the final steps of CoQ10 production occur in the mitochondria, it can be exported to other sub-cellular locations. While participating in various oxidation and reduction reactions, CoQ10 is cycled between two stable states: a fully oxidized form referred to as ubiquinone, and a fully reduced form called ubiquinol. CoQ10 cycles through these oxidated/reduced forms in order to achieve its metabolic goals. The cycle of CoQ10 is simple. Ubiquinone picks up electrons and then becomes ubiquinol. Ubiquinol then release its electrons and becomes ubiquinone again. Therefore, it would seem that CoQ10 has a very simple function of moving electrons, as the transfer of electrons is a fundamental step in the production of energy, the regeneration of antioxidants in cell membranes, and the construction of other important biological molecules. Each cell that is in the body needs a source of energy in order to survive. Therefore, sugars, fats, and amino acids are broken down in order to make energy. In the mitochondria, CoQ10 is abundant, as it carries electrons to aid in the chemical reactions that burn cellular fuel and produce chemical energy to form ATP. Since substantial amounts of ATP are needed to power our cells, the importance of CoQ10 in human metabolism is easily understood. Both forms of CoQ10 are needed to transfer electrons between energy-producing reactions. Outside of the mitochondria, CoQ10 performs a slightly different role as a membrane and antioxidant. About half of the human body’s total CoQ10 pool may be functioning in this capacity. CoQ10 is one of the major antioxidant elements of the LDL particles and is also one of the first to be depleted when LDL is subjected to oxidation. A discussion of CoQ10 would not be complete without mentioning its documented health benefits. Supplemental CoQ10 has been the subject of a lot of studies over the last half century, especially in applications for cardiovascular health. Many studies have shown benefits of CoQ10 in patients who are diagnosed with chronic heart failure, exercise-induced angina, hypertension, or those who have recently experienced infarction. There is also early evidence showing that CoQ10 may protect the heart from damage during chemotherapy, bypass surgery, or in diabetes. Aside from its cardiovascular uses, CoQ10 has been studied for its benefits in other conditions involving dysfunctions in cellular energetics, neurological degeneration, or oxidative stress damage. Although the clinical evidence for the potential benefit of CoQ10 in many of these applications shows promise, the variability in study outcomes proves it necessary to further research these areas for a more definite answer. As we have previously seen, CoQ10 functions by cycling between two stable forms, ubiquinol and ubiquinone. This cycle results in the generation of cellular energy and the protection of membranes and lipids from oxidation. Dietary or supplemental CoQ10 also takes part in this cycle. Supplemental ubiquinol may have a distinct advantage over ubiquinone in its facility of absorption. Like many fats and lipophilic nutrients, CoQ10 is usually taken up by the intestinal electrolytes, packaged into lipid particles, and then released into the lymphatic system. From there, these particles are transferred into circulation where they are free to be transported throughout the body as needed. The absorption of dietary CoQ10 is actually quite poor since it has limited solubility in lipids and depends on other contents of the gut. Some studies have measured that absorption is as low as 2-3 percent of the total dosage. One of the most thrilling consequences of the development of a stabilized dosage form of ubiquinol is its ability to be absorbed more efficiently than ubiquinone. There is evidence that CoQ10 must be reduced in intestinal enterocytes before the release into the lymphatic system. This, paired with absorption/reduction, may be a rate-limiting step of CoQ10 assimilation. Dietary ubiquinol avoids this reduction reaction, and is directly available for absorption, which explains why ubiquinol-based CoQ10 supplements exhibit enhanced bioavailability over ubiquinone supplements. Preliminary studies in humans have shown that absorption of ubiquinol is at least double the absorption of ubiquinone. Comparisons of blood levels between trials also estimate the improvement in absorption to be significantly higher. Future studies are necessary to more accurately determine ubiquinol’s enhanced absorption, and what effect the patient age or medical condition may have on these results.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1743) Fat Controls our hunger centers in the brain!
Date:
April 04, 2008 11:28 AM
The main cause of any chronic disease of aging including Type II diabetes, CV disease, obesity, osteoporosis, and cancer are all caused by miss communication between signals that tell your body how to turn energy into life and the brain. The two most important signals that we know of today are given by the hormones insulin and leptin. Leptin is an extremely powerful and influential hormone that is produced by fat cells. It has totally changed the way scientific researchers look at fat, nutrition, and metabolism in general. Before leptin’s discovery in 1994, fat was regarded as strictly an ugly energy store that most everyone was trying to get rid of. However, after it was discovered that leptin is actually produced by fat, fat became an endocrine organ similar to the ovaries, pancreas, and pituitary, as it influences the rest of the body, especially the brain. Leptin is the most powerful regulator known to date of eating and reproduction. Your fat tells your brain whether you should be hungry or eat and make more fat, whether you should reproduce and make babies, or whether to maintain and repair yourself. It can then be stated that instead of your brain being in control of your body, your body, especially its fat and leptin, controls your brain. Throughout history, it has been in ones best interest to store some fat to call upon during times of famine. However, it is also just as bad to be too fat. For most of our history, it was necessary to run, hunt, and avoid being prey. Therefore, fat storage had to be highly regulated and it still is. When a person typically tries to lose weight, the body tries to gain it back, resulting in what is commonly known as yo-yo dieting. Because of this, it has long been theorized that there is a “set point” and there must be a hormone that determines this. Science now believes that leptin is that hormone. So in order to break the yo-yo cycle, one must control leptin. If a person is getting too fat, the extra fat produces more leptin that is suppose to tell the brain there is too much fat stored and the excess should be burned. Signals are then sent to the hypothalamus to stop being hungry, stop eating, stop storing fat, and start burning off some extra fat. Controlling hunger is a major way that leptin controls energy storage. Hunger is a very powerful drive that will make you do all you can to eat if it is stimulated long enough. The only way to eat less in the long-term is to not be hungry and the only way to do this is to control the hormones that regulate hunger. The primary hormone that does this is leptin. It has recently been found that leptin not only changes brain chemistry, but can also rewire the neurons in areas of the brain that control hunger and metabolism to do its bidding. The inability of the body to hear leptin’s signals plays significant and even primary roles in heart disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases, reproductive disorders, cancer, and even the rate of aging itself. In a process called glycation, glucose reacts with protein which results in sticky, sugar-damaged proteins called advanced glycated end products, or AGEs for short. When protein is damaged, it can’t function or communicate properly. AGEs promote excessive inflammation and free radical damage. AGEs and free radicals from oxidation are two of the major molecular mechanisms that cause damage which leads to aging. AGEs cause skin and the lining of arteries to wrinkle and inflame, which contributes to plaque and heart attacks. They can also promote the formation of cataracts and macular degeneration leading eventually to blindness. The glycation process has also been connected with the destruction of proteins and nerve cells that may lead to Alzheimer’s disease, memory loss, and a variety of neuropathies. Glycation and oxidation are two of the major molecular mechanisms where damage accrues, disease occurs, and death results. High blood sugar can suppress your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infection and cancer. Highly aggressive cancers outpace the availability of oxygen and therefore must use an anaerobic fuel, in the form of glucose. By consuming glucose (sugar), we feed cancer. Lastly, high blood levels of sugar form non-fiber carbohydrates and excess protein send leptin and insulin levels upward. If there is a known marker for long life, it is low insulin levels. Insulin’s purpose is not only to regulate blood sugar, but to store excess energy for future times of need. Insulin also lowers blood glucose levels as a side effect from storing it away, not regulating it. Today, high glucose is quite normal, as our insulin levels are typically much higher than they were among our ancestors. When you are constantly bombarding your cells with insulin, they become insulin resistant. This causes insulin levels to rise, creating a hormonal derangement that has a catastrophic effect on the metabolism. High insulin contributes to making you fat because it tells your cells to store nutrients as fat rather than to burn it. Repeated high levels of insulin cause insulin resistance. The more fat the body accumulates the more leptin the body can produce so fat works against to slow down insulin production causing insulin resistance.. High insulin causes the retention of sodium, fluid retention, excretion of magnesium, elevated blood pressure, cognitive heart failure, blood clotting, and arterial plaque formation. Heart attacks are much more likely to happen after a meal that is high in carbohydrates than after one that is high in fat. This triggers a stress response which can cause arterial spasm, constriction of arteries, elevated blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and sudden death. Insulin resistance along with low magnesium keeps you from metabolizing important fatty acids that are vital to your heart health in general. As critical as insulin is in your health, leptin may even be more so. Leptin plays a significant role in obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases, and cancer. But there are clues as to how to live a long and healthy life which brings us back to fat and leptin and our need to control it. One can control their insulin production and fat by dietary changes and blood sugar supplements.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1742) Fight Night Blindness, Boost Eye And Vascular Health With Bilberry
Date:
March 19, 2008 09:01 PM
Weakness of blood vessels is often seen during the aging process when blood vessels become fragile. Dark bilberry fruit has been shown to reduce blood vessel permeability, improve capillary resistance, and provide antioxidant properties, to scavenge free radicals. One way to fight the aging process of the body is to promote health in the vascular system by eating nourishing foods, exercising, and learning how to handle stress. Evidence shows that eating five servings or more a day of fruit and vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease, cataracts, and some other disorders that related to blood vessel health. The dark pigment in fruits and vegetables has many health advantages. A lot of people think that the only way to improve blood vessel health is to reduce blood cholesterol, minimizing the risk of a heart attack. That is an essential goal, but blood vessels should also have strength and integrity to maintain their health in order to carry nutrients and oxygen through the body to feed the tissues. As we age, eye function begins to diminish and causes a lot of people to fear that they are losing their eyesight. The blood vessels decline in function, but there are other factors such as the reduction of arrestin and rhodopsin. Arrestin is a protein while rhodopsin is the light sensitive pigment that can be found in the retina. The dark pigment of fruits and vegetables is extremely important to blood vessels and the health of the structures and proteins of the eyes. Brilliant colored fruits and vegetables may prevent strokes, heart disease, and help long-term vision because they improve integrity of blood vessels. Bilberry fruit has been studied for over 40 years for its supportive effects on blood vessel health, blood circulation, and lymph flow. Blood vessels in the brain, heart, eyes, stomach, veins in the legs, and actually anywhere in the body have the potential to leak. In many regions bilberry extract has been used to support individuals with microcirculatory disorders including varicose veins, atherosclerosis, and degenerative retinal conditions including macular degeneration and cataracts. Diabetes, atherosclerosis, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excess alcohol and an inability to handle stress can all contribute to blood vessel disorders and cause the capillary’s membrane to thicken, therefore, increasing capillary permeability causing edema and leaking of fluid. During the aging process, oxidative damage occurs by free radicals in the eyes, which then causes a loss in the transparency of the lens. Symptoms that occur because of this are blurred vision, increased sensitivity to glare, reduced visual acuity, color perception, and light sensitivity. When the eye structure begins to break down, vision impairment and cataract formation result. Bilberry extract has been shown to improve vision and twilight vision, helping the retina adapt to darkness and glare. With aging, a gradual degenerative process is experienced which is caused by free radical damage to our body’s genetic material, cell membranes, and tissues. Free radicals attack blood vessel endothelial cells, and they begin to rupture. Antioxidants help to prevent AMD and reduce the damage of the retina’s photo receptors. In summary, blood vessel health is an important part of age management. By improving diet, managing stress, exercising, and supplementing with bilberry extract, one can promote the health of blood vessels throughout the body, and therefore, support the eyes.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1726) Fight Histamine With Quercetin
Date:
February 11, 2008 03:48 PM
Quercetin is one of the more powerful of the body’s antioxidants, and it can also be used to reduce the rate of histamine release by the body normally initiated by contact with an allergenic substance (for which your immune system has designed an antigen). We shall examine the biochemical mechanism which this is achieved, but first let’s have a closer look at quercetin and what it actually is. Quercetin is what is known as a phytochemical, which is simply the scientific name for a chemical that is naturally produced by plants. Other phytochemicals include vitamin C and omega 3 fatty acids, so the term is very broad ranging for any substance that is produced by plants. It is commonly known as a flavanol, one of a family of compounds known as flavonoids that give color to plants. It is a very active flavonoid, with very powerful antioxidant properties, in addition to acting as an anti-histamine and anti-inflammatory. Histamine is an amine released as part of the body’s immune response to allergenics, and quercetin inhibits its manufacture and release. This amine is an irritant and can itself cause inflammation and the other symptoms associated with allergies such as runny and itchy eyes, a stuffy nose, sneezing and itchy spots. Quercetin can be used to alleviate these symptoms by blocking the manufacture in the body of the histamine that causes them. It demonstrates other anti-inflammatory properties such as alleviating the symptoms of arthritis, and also helps to destroy free radicals in the body through its strong antioxidant properties, but before we discuss how it does this we shall have a closer look at the mechanisms used in its effect in inhibiting histamine. Calmodulin is a protein that is used to transport calcium ions, Ca++, across the membranes of certain cells in the body, and by doing so it helps to mediate a number of biochemical processes within the body, among them the immune response and inflammation. It should not be thought these are always unwelcome responses: on the contrary, they are the body’s way of reacting to foreign bodies and preventing more serious conditions from developing. However, there are instances where the body can become sensitized to certain substances and overreact to their presence leading to conditions such as hay fever or, considerably more serious, asthma. These are just two of the undesirable manifestations of the human immune system that we would be better without. What quercetin does is to prevent calmodulin from properly binding to certain enzymic proteins and so suppress the effect of these proteins. Among these are the enzymes that control the secretion of histamine from mast cells. Mast cells are found mainly in areas prone to injury and at the interface between internal tissues and outside world, such as the nose, mouth, lungs, eyes, blood vessels and feet. They contain granules rich in histamine that degranulate and released the histamine when the immune system detects foreign bodies such as pollen grains and dust mites, especially when the body has created antigens against them. Quercetin suppresses the release of histamine from the granules in the mast cells by preventing the degranulation. The release of the histamine is not completely halted, but its effects are reduced and quercetin is used in the treatment of asthma where it is believed to help reduce the symptoms by reducing histamine-induced swelling in the airways. A similar application of this flavonoid is in reducing the inflammatory response to arthritis, the main cause of the swelling of this painful condition. Your skin can also be affected by inflammation that is partially controllable by quercetin. Collagen and fibronectin biosynthesis is increased that help to maintain not only healthy joints, but also to speed up the healing of wounds and repair damaged nerves. It is also believed that quercetin can hold back the effects of aging on the skin, and slow down the formation of wrinkles. There are other applications of this versatile flavanol, including its effect on acute prostatitis where it reduces oxidative stress and the accompanying inflammation of the prostate gland. In fact, it is believed to have positive effect on many conditions caused by free radical oxidation and excessive reaction by the immune system causing inflammation. Apart from the allergies and arthritis previously referred to, quercetin is believed to have been effectively used in the treatment of gout, macular degeneration and heart disease, and it can also help to prevent the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL) responsible for transporting cholesterol to where it is needed to repair major blood vessels. When these lipoproteins become oxidized by free radicals then the cholesterol associated with them tends to be excessively deposited in the arteries it is meant to be repairing, and lead to atherosclerosis. This condition can lead to heart failure or to strokes if the blood vessels are in the brain. Studies have indicated that the flavonoid might help to prevent certain cancers by preventing the nutrition of some types of cancerous cells, effectively killing them. Due to its phytoestrogen properties, quercetin can be used to bind to the sites in cancerous cells that are receptive to estrogen and so prevent their growth. Many types of cancerous cells need estrogen for their growth and proliferation, and phytoestrogens mimic the effect of this hormone. However, these are laboratory studies, and more work is required. More certain is the effect of quercetin on heart disease due largely to the aforementioned control of cholesterol deposition in your arteries, but also through its ability to strengthen the capillaries. However, when all things are considered, it is in the properties of this non-allergenic bioflavonoid to fight histamine release that it finds it’s most popular and effective use. So what is the best way to take quercetin? Like most bioflavonoids, it is available naturally in the majority of plant foods. Particularly rich sources are broccoli, red onions, red apple skins, black tea, red wine, red and purple berries and almost all dark green leafy vegetables. However, the name of the game these days is to take measured doses, and while you should continue to eat these foods, you can also receive controlled doses by use of supplements. From 200 to 500 milligrams thrice daily is a good average dose, depending on the severity of your immune reaction or allergy. Bromelain is believed to improve its absorption in the gut, and quercetin is frequently provided with bromelain, which itself is also a good treatment for allergies and excessive response of your immune system to irritation. Bromelain is an enzyme, generally extracted from pineapple, and treatments higher than the above doses of quercetin with or without bromelain are available online, although like any natural remedy you should inform your own physician of the dosage you are taking. There is no better non-allergenic bioflavonoid to fight histamine and its potentially unpleasant effects on your body than quercetin.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1716) Better Vision Through Bilberries
Date:
January 17, 2008 02:20 PM
"Eat your carrots! They're good for your eyes!" Isn't this what your mother always told you? Isn't that what you learned as a kid? Well, how about re-writing that phrase? How about making it into the phrase: "Eat your bilberries!" What is a bilberry? A bilberry is a shrub just over a foot tall. The bilberry plant possesses a fruit, the cousin of the blueberry, that is indigenous to Northern Europe. These fruits contain bioflavonoids, an antioxidant with a variety of health benefits. A thousand years ago bilberries were used to relieve diarrhea and kidney stones. Today, the bilberry sees use as a treatment and preventive measure in a variety of situations. Some of the benefits seen in the modern age include possible prevention of heart disease and macular degeneration. In fact, bilberries may help strengthen the eyes when used by people regularly who aren't suffering from any ocular conditions. The active ingredients in the fruit are tannins, which are an astringent and anti-inflammatory. The bilberry also contains anthocyanidins, which are compounds that strengthen capillaries and improve the flow of blood through the circulatory system. These anthocyanidins also increase the body’s production of rhodopsin, which is a pigment responsible for enhanced night vision and increased adaptability to changes in light by the eye. In fact, a jam made from the fruit was used by British Royal Air Force pilots in World War II who often reported that it improved their night vision, a crucial aid in an ace pilot's career. The anthocyanidins in the bilberry fruit are a bioflavonoid. A bioflavonoid is a substance found in plants which helps strengthen the walls of capillaries. Many bioflavonoids support human health in various ways, such as naringenin which aids in cancer prevention. Others may be useful in treating liver conditions such as cirrhosis. The variety of bioflavonoid uses is a field that is still being developed. Bioflavonoids have an extensive history. From the previously mentioned uses for bilberries to research after World War II into the connection between bioflavonoids and vitamin C, these biologically active wonder substances are an exciting branch of health supplements. They are available in various forms for your convenience. Bilberry extract comes in a capsule form, usually meant to be taken three times daily. The manufacturer will have instructions in case of varying dosages. Bilberry extract contains the most potent dose of bioflavonoid that the bilberry has to offer. It is this potency that makes the extract the best choice for maximum ocular benefit. But it is not the only choice, in case you are looking for another way to enjoy receiving its unique health bonuses. Bilberry tea is also made from the dried berries or the leaves of the plant. The berries are also eaten fresh or made into jam, just like the aforementioned British pilots did. The taste of a bilberry is very similar to that of a blueberry: slightly tart, slightly sweet. It has traditionally been baked in pies and it a special treat with syrup and ginger ice cream. That's a taste worthy of the fruit's pedigree! In the world of health supplements, the unique properties and advantages this fruit, particularly bilberry extract, make it a worthy addition to anyone's daily regimen. Maybe there's a toddler in the house who won't eat his carrots. He will get similar eye benefits by eating the sweet fruit of the bilberry plant. Perhaps a tasty dessert that packs its own reward would be a welcome addition to the dinner table. The possibilities are limitless. Try some of the fruit or extract and invest in a healthier future.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1691) Bioflavonoids: Boost Your Brain and Circulatory Health
Date:
January 17, 2008 01:16 PM
Bioflavonoids are most commonly praised for their antioxidant properties. They were first identified in the 1930’s by Albert Szent-Gyorgyi, Ph.D., a Nobel laureate. They are thought to prevent the breakdown of vitamin C in the body, and they also boast their own antioxidant capabilities. Over 5000 different bioflavonoids have been identified in nature. They are classified into categories including flavones, anthocyanidins, flavones, flavonols, isoflavones and flavans. Science is still discovering new types and their healing properties every day. The best part about them is that they are all natural and very powerful. For example, scientists have been promoting the amazing benefits of the antioxidant found in dark chocolate. It is called epicatechin, and it is an excellent bioflavonoid for heart health. Studies show that it helps maintain healthy blood vessels. Antioxidants in dark chocolate are also believed to lower high blood pressure, according to a study published in the Aug. 27, 2003 edition of The Journal of the American Medical Association. Rutin and quecertin, both found in red grapes, are also linked with a healthier circulatory system. A study conducted at the University of Wisconsin in Madison in 1995 found that “the antioxidant and platelet inhibitory properties of other naturally occurring compounds in the wine the consumption of flavonoid-containing foods and beverages may retard atherogenesis and prevent thrombosis on a daily basis.” Translated into common terms, the researchers concluded that bioflavonoid may slow artery and vein degeneration and prevent blood clotting. The American Heart Association feels that this area of research is very promising. Their website states, “Phytochemicals are chemicals found in plants. Plant sterols, flavonoids and sulfur-containing compounds are three classes of micronutrients found in fruits and vegetables. These compounds may be important in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of fatty deposits in artery walls.” As far as healthy brain function is concerned, bioflavonoid is thought to help with microcirculation in small vessels throughout the body. You might recall seeing ginkgo biloba in the news. It has been shown to improve memory with its powerful bioflavonoid in numerous studies. What makes ginkgo especially significant is that its bioflavonoids have a stronger potency than many other bioflavonoids, and it seems to have specific benefits in the capillary beds of the brain. The National Center for Biotechnology Information recently reported the following on their website: “Flavonoids were shown to activate key enzymes in mitochondrial respiration and to protect neuronal cells by acting as antioxidants, thus breaking the vicious cycle of oxidative stress and tissue damage. Furthermore, recent data indicate a favorable effect of flavonoids on neuro-inflammatory events.” In other words, bioflavonoid is thought to help protect your brain cells from degeneration, and recent data shows that they may also reduce swelling. Researchers are eager to discover all the healing properties bioflavonoids possess. Modern medicine is now faced with an all natural group of chemicals found in plant pigments that may prove to be effective in preserving brain function and promoting cardiovascular health. This is fantastic news for people that prefer natural supplements over expensive prescription pills. Current research shows that these chemicals have significant powers for enhancing overall health. In fact, many researchers advocate including bioflavonoid supplements in your daily health maintenance plan.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1690) Eggs: An Excellent Source of Omega-3 Oils for Better Health
Date:
December 18, 2007 11:43 AM
Eggs have many health benefits, among them being the fact they can be an excellent source of omega-3 oils that can promote better health in those that take it as a supplement. Hens fed on flax seeds are particularly high in omega-3 fatty acids, although eggs have many health benefits other than omega-3. Most of the health benefits of Omega fatty acids are well known, although many more are being continually discovered as scientists research the uses to which the substances can be put in our bodies. Omega-3 fatty acids have long carbon chains that are polyunsaturated, i.e. contain multiple double bonds in the hydrocarbon chain. As opposed to saturated fatty acids with no double bonds. They are important components of our neurological systems and help to build up cell membranes, but are probably best known for their effect in protecting us from cardiovascular diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids can help us to maintain a healthy heart, and so enable us to live longer. The current western diet has been changing to reduce cholesterol intake and improve our lifestyle. However, this has not all been well advised, and the resultant diet is rich in vegetable oils as opposite to animal fats, the relative levels of omega fatty acids having changed in favor of omega-6 fatty acids. These omega-6 fats are not as healthy for us as omega-3, and can lead to a thrombogenic state that more easily leads to cardiovascular diseases and blood clots. Rather than a normal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of around 2:1, this ‘improved’ diet has increased it to anything up to 50:1. The American Heart Association has been advocating a diet richer in omega-3 fatty acids since 1996, yet while research continues to favor omega-3, the increase in consumption of vegetable oils has continued to increase, and with it a reduction in the overall health of a nation. Omega-3 enriched eggs have been introduced as one means of redressing the balance. Hens fed on flax seeds lay eggs with a much higher proportion of omega-3 fatty acids than normal: up to and over 150mg per egg. Such eggs also have reduced cholesterol – over 15% less, and also are higher in vitamin E, a strong antioxidant, by up to 300%. Two of the components of omega-3 oils, linoleic acid and linolenic acid, are what are known as ‘essential’ fatty acids. The term means that they cannot be manufactured in your body, so must essentially be introduced through your diet. When the human body developed to what it is now, the consumption of fish and other oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids was a significant part of our diets, and allowed our bodies to develop the biochemistry and metabolism that it uses today. If we now upset that biochemistry by cutting our intake of unsaturated fatty acids, our metabolism will suffer and our general health decline. This is one reason why humans should interfere with their natural eating habits as little as possible, or if we do so excessively we should use supplements to replace what we are excluding from diets that have been natural to us for countless millennia. It is dangerous now for the human race to suddenly switch to a significantly different diet without suitable supplementation, because we do not know the long terms effects of doing so. One way to maintain a steady intake of the fatty acids our metabolism needs in order to ensure our survival is to eat eggs, and especially omega-3 enriched eggs. Of course, eggs have a lot more beneficial health effects than just omega-3. Take choline for example. This is a trimethylated compound that is important in the metabolism of fats. It is the newest official B vitamin, and is an essential component of cell membranes. It is particularly important for the maintenance of the health of your brain, and preventing many brain disorders. It is also important in methylation, an important biochemical process, and also in the biochemical synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This substance is used to pass messages between nerve cells and from nerve cells to muscles, and a deficiency can cause many health problems, including heart disease and diseases of the vascular system. Methylation is a very important biochemical reaction, being used particularly in messages between body cells and is used to switch genes on and off. Up to 90% of Americans are deficient in choline, and subject to many diseases because of it. Symptoms include insomnia, fatigue, excess fat concentrations in the blood and problems with your nerves and muscular control. It can cause liver problems and heart problems, and cause a number of brain disorders. Choline is available in the diet from lecithin and egg yolks, and also soya beans, flax seeds, peanuts and potatoes. The typical American diet is not conducive to an adequate choline intake, and increased egg consumption can help to redress this. This is particularly true of eggs from hens fed with flax seeds, or linseed, from which the triple benefits of choline, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E are obtained. Just two eggs will provide you with almost 50% of your daily requirement of choline. Some are wary about the cholesterol content of eggs, but studies have indicated that it not so much the amount of dietary cholesterol that is eaten, but saturated fats that cause the excess deposition of cholesterol in the arteries. Cholesterol is an essential part of human biochemistry, and without any we could not survive. In fact, studies have shown that eating two eggs daily can improve your cholesterol levels Eggs are also rich in lutein, and contain more than vegetables such as spinach. Lutein is an important carotenoid that is believed to prevent age related macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness, and also prevents the development of cataracts. Eggs also appear to have anti-clotting properties on the blood, and so help to reduce the thrombogenesis of omega-6 fatty acids. Without a doubt, eating eggs is very good for your health, and especially so if they are rich is omega-3 fatty acids. They contain a wide variety of nutrients and truly are a complete food packaged by nature. Some may prefer to stay away from eggs and miss the omega-3 benefits so there is an alternative for diets that exclude eggs. Omega-3 is available in a supplement form that one can take on a daily basis to reap the benefits omega-3 presents.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1673) A Periwinkle Extract Vinpocetine May Promote Cerebral Blood Flow
Date:
December 01, 2007 09:05 AM
Periwinkles form the plant genus Vinca, of which the lesser periwinkle and the greater periwinkle are the two members. They are also a form of dogbane, known for its alkaloid properties. Periwinkles are of interest to the medical profession due to their biosynthesis of a number of alkaloids that are used to protect themselves from bacteria and are also toxic to the herbivores that would otherwise eat them. Many other plants produce alkaloids, perhaps the best known being poppy, that produces the alkaloid opium that is the precursor to heroin. The alkaloids of the periwinkle, however, have a much more beneficial use for mankind in their action on certain types of cancer such as Hodgkin’s disease, and also on the flow of blood to the brain.
The components of the periwinkle include vinblastine, which is used in the treatment of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and it is the only plant known to produce the alkaloid, although only in very small quantities after synthetic seeding. This involves introducing modified tryptamines to the plant so that they produce the desired alkaloid, although only in quantities of 0.002% of the weight of the plant. Although small, this is still less expensive that synthesizing the alkaloid in a chemical plant rather than a biological one! Chemists are now seeking more readily synthesizable alternative forms of the alkaloid that have the same effect, again using the periwinkle as a botanical chemical factory to provide them with a lead as to possible synthetic routes. However, it is for the application of another alkaloid of this amazing little plant that we are more concerned with here. In addition to vinblastine, the periwinkle produces the alkaloid vincamine, a type of tryptamine that can be extracted from the leaves of the lesser periwinkle, the Vinca minor. This periwinkle has been used through the ages as an invigorating tonic and as an astringent to treat bleeding gums and sores in the mouth. Vincamine promotes the aerobic glycolysis that is essential to cerebral health. Normal glycolysis, or the conversion of glucose to energy in the mitochondria of the cells of the body, occurs best in the absence of oxygen (anaerobic glycolysis). However, the brain produces up to and over 90% more energy through aerobic glycolysis in the presence of oxygen than through anaerobic. Hence one of the needs for such a rich supply of oxygenated blood being needed by the brain. As people grow older, or their brain tissue becomes damaged, then the supply of blood can be reduced and more and more anaerobic glycolysis is switched on. This results in an increasing loss of brain energy and hence brain function. Vincamine can reverse this effect, or at least maintain the status quo, and so enable people to maintain their brain function for longer. It is also what is known as a vasodilator, and dilates the blood vessels in the brain allowing a greater blood flow. It is known to be beneficial in relation to tasks requiring focused concentration such as mathematical problem solving, and has also been found effective in the treatment of people with poor memory. Vinpocetine (ethyl apovincaminate) is a derivative of vincamine, obtained by slightly modifying the molecule to produce a commercial form of the alkaloid. This possesses all of the beneficial effects of its precursor, including its positive effects on memory, believed to be due to the stimulation of serotonin production that improves the rate at which the brain can process information. Tinnitus, or ringing in the ears that has severely reduced the quality of life of so many people, can also be treated with vinpotecine. Its vascodilation effect is thought to be through its action as a phosphodeaterase 1 (PDE1) inhibitor that results in an improvement in the plasticity of neurons. The mechanism is complex, but the end result is an improvement in the cognitive abilities of the subject. This is supplemented by the effect of vinpocetine on the calcium levels in the blood vessels. This renders them more plastic in much the same way that some anti-hypertension treatments work to reduce blood pressure by increasing the plasticity of the blood vessels by modification of their calcium levels. It can also reduce the viscosity of the blood through its action on the “stickiness” of leucocytes and so allow the blood to run more freely through the capillaries of the brain. These effects have been demonstrated through double blind studies, and there is little doubt that vinpocetine helps to maintain a healthy cerebral circulation. So let’s have a recap on its various effects, and then finish with a summary of the conditions that the alkaloid can be used to treat or improve. The theory and biochemistry behind these effects is known, but is complex, but here are the major actions: a) It improves blood flow by modifying the calcium content of the blood vessels and so improves their elasticity, hence allowing a freer movement of blood. In effect it helps the blood vessels to dilate easier. b) It inhibits the enzyme PDE1 and by doing so helps to restore the elasticity of neurons in aging brain cells, allowing them to relax more and operate more effectively. c) It promotes aerobic glycolysis, and so the rate at which the mitochondria of brain cells produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) that is the chemical manifestation of energy. d) It helps to maintain a good supply of glucose and oxygen in the brain to allow (c) to occur. Not all of these may be separate effects, but the outcome is an improvement in conditions such as short term memory loss, dementia and other conditions associated with a reduction in the blood supply to the brain including Menière’s syndrome and vertigo. There is also evidence that it helps with hearing problems, macular degeneration of the eye, and fatigue. It is a supplement that should be taken by the elderly to help with age-related memory problems, but has also been found to be beneficial in normal healthy people. The periwinkle extract Vinpocetine has been shown to have benefits, largely through an increase in the blood flow to the brain, and will be of use to anybody suffering from conditions that can be related to a deficiency in their cerebral blood supply.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1643) Green Coffee For Protection Against Oxidative Stress
Date:
November 17, 2007 11:46 AM
It is recorded that coffee drinking originated in Ethiopia in North East Africa, from where Arab traders introduced the plant to the Middle East. From there it moved to Turkey in the 15th century, where it was highly prized as a daily beverage due its invigorating properties. It is also believed that the infamous Captain John Smith introduced the plant to Virginia. The Brazilian coffee trade was due largely to the introduction of the bean to that country by the French in 1727, and the Boston Tea Party of 1773 rendered it the only non-alcoholic drink worth consuming by the patriots of 18th century America. Now over 50% of Americans drink coffee daily, although this seems a somewhat conservative estimate, and the tea houses of England have largely been replaced by coffee shops and the ubiquitous Starbucks. So much for the history of a beverage that has been prized for its stimulant properties, but recent research has established that not only is coffee a stimulating drink, but that it is a strong antioxidant due to its polyphenol content. However, not all forms of coffee have this property, only the green coffee bean before it has been roasted. Polyphenols are very powerful antioxidants that scavenge the free radicals that destroy body cells, and not only accelerate aging but also threaten the health of your cardiovascular system and the health of other major organs. Free radicals are compounds with a spare electron. Normally the electrons in all stable molecules come in pairs, and any free electron without a partner is like a lovelorn bachelor. It will seek a mate, and take it from wherever it can find one. Usually it secures its partner by stealing an electron from one of our body cells. This can totally destroy the cell, as it might anybody who has its partner stolen, and cell destruction is not a good thing. It is the destruction of body cells that promotes the appearance that aging brings: the wrinkles and the loss of energy that is generated by healthy cellular activity. Antioxidants destroy these free radicals, and come in a number of different guises. Vitamins A, C and E are all powerful antioxidants, as are many of the compounds that are essential to our biochemistry such as beta carotene and polyphenols. These polyphenols are found in practically all plants to a greater or lesser degree, and another rich source is grapes, and those found in green coffee beans are what are known as hydroxycinnamic acids the most abundant of which is caffeic acid. Another is chlorogenic acid, and together they form a very potent team in preventing the oxidation by free radicals of LDL (low density lipoprotein). Low density lipoproteins are those that carry cholesterol from the liver to areas of the body that need first aid due to damage, such the arterial walls. However, this can be attacked by free radicals and oxidized which results in the deposition of excess cholesterol that can build up till it eventually constricts, and sometimes completely blocks, the major cardiac arteries. This is a serious condition known as atherosclerosis that can eventually lead to cardiac disease and arrest or to strokes if the artery is in the brain. Not only do chlorogenic and caffeic acid help to prevent this from occurring, but they also help to prevent the cellular degeneration caused by the free radicals. They must be extracted from the green coffee bean because roasting or heating in any way, including brewing, destroys them. In fact, brewed coffee contains some potentially harmful substances called diterpenes that some believe can increase your chances of coronary disease by up to fifth if you drink coffee regularly over your lifetime. It is also believed that green coffee extract can reduce the risk of diabetes due to its effect on your blood glucose levels. Evidence is coming to light that some polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid, might have inhibiting properties on the activity of glucose-6-phosphate, otherwise known as Robison Ester, which is involved in the metabolism of blood glucose and which is affected by diabetes which reduces its concentration. Chlorogenic acid is though to be able to redress this imbalance and not only reduce blood glucose levels, but increase the glycogen stored in the liver as an emergency energy source for the body. Green coffee bean extract also possesses other beneficial properties, not the least of which is its effect in increasing the metabolism of fats in relation to carbohydrates. This assists in weight loss and also increases stamina. The decrease in the risk of diabetes of up to 50% in men, and slightly less in women, could be due to a combination of the regulation of glucose-6-phosphate and the regulation of blood glucose levels and glucose and weight management in general. The vast majority of diabetes patients are overweight. In animal studies, the presence of chlorogenic acid appears to reduce the hyperglycemic peak that arises through the action of glucagon, a hormone used to counter hypoglycemia. The fact that chlorogenic acid reduced this sugar peak indicates its potential use in reducing abnormally high blood glucose levels. Another effect of this was an increase in the animal’s glycogen level and in the level of glucose-6-phosphate in the liver. This indicates a reduction in glycogenolysis, by which glycogen is ultimately converted to glucose-6-phosphate and glucose, thus increasing the blood glucose levels and also of gluconeogenesis which is the production of glucose from carbohydrates and some glucogenic amino acids. In other words, green coffee bean extract can help to regulate blood glucose levels by preventing the liver from producing glucose from glycogen and carbohydrates. However, the biochemistry apart, it must be stressed that these benefits are not obtained by drinking coffee, and it has to be repeated that the active agents in providing them are destroyed by the roasting and brewing processes. It is only the green coffee beans that can be used for protection of oxidative stress of human body cells and the gradual degradation into premature aging and many other related conditions.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1635) Lutein: A Plant Pigment That Provides Protection From The Sun 
Date:
October 23, 2007 10:00 AM
Lutein is a plant pigment, and protects protection from the sun needed to prevent damage to the skin and eyes from its strong ultra violet (UVB) radiation. Lutein is a carotenoid and strong antioxidant that is found in red, yellow, orange and dark green fruit and vegetables such as broccoli, curly and sea kale, spinach, carrots peppers and squashes. It is also available from egg yolks, corn and some fruits such as pomegranates. It is the colored pigments, especially the reds, yellows and oranges, in which lutein is most found. Lutein can also prevent cataracts and provide benefits for age related macular degeneration. However, before discussing the benefits, it is necessary to discuss exactly what these conditions are and what causes them. Let’s have a heads up on cataracts first. A cataract takes the form of a clouding of the lens of the eye that leads to blurred vision and eventual virtual blindness when the cloudiness is extreme. It is not blindness due to problems with the nerves of the eye, but due to the lens become cloudy, and scattering light entering the eye. It is not a film over the eye as many people believe, but a cloudiness of the lens, and cataracts can normally be treated by removing the whole lens and replacing it with a lens implant – or a synthetic lens. It is not fully understood how lutein can help cataracts, but studies have shown that those take a large quantity of lutein in there diet have up to 50% less chance of getting cataracts that those that do not. It has also been demonstrated that men who ate broccoli and spinach regularly had a 25% less chance of getting cataracts. The same is true of those that include a lutein supplement of around 6 mg daily, although up to 20 mg is considered an effective dose. However, it not only through its properties in protecting against cataracts that lutein can help to preserve the health of your eyes. It is also through its effect on macular degeneration. The macula is small part in the center of the retina that allows you to see central vision in high detail, especially close up when you use the center of your eye. Age-related macular degeneration, known as MD, affects your macula so that you can see fine round the edges, but your central vision is blurred. It is therefore difficult to drive, read or carry out tasks that need good central focus. You will find it next to impossible to thread a needle for example. It can come on very slowly, in fact so slowly that you never notice it because the change from day to day, or even week to week, is so small. It is not coincidence that lutein is concentrated in the macula, and that a lutein supplement can help to prevent macular degeneration. Lutein is believed to filter out some of the blue wavelengths of light, and it is the blue wavelengths that are though to cause free radical damage and oxidative stress to various organs of the body exposed to light, but specifically the eyes. That is why it is believed that lutein helps to prevent macular degeneration, and studies have indicated a good supplement to consist of up to 30 mg each day. It can also protect the skin from damage by UV radiation, and also prevents free radical damage to skin cells causing premature aging of the skin. The latter occurs through its antioxidant properties, while the former is because if its light filtering properties. It can not only filter out the blue light that can cause macular degeneration but also ultra-violet radiation that affects the skin and can cause skin cancer. There is a fine line between the blue and ultra violet wavelengths from sunlight, and both can contribute to certain medical conditions. However, the absorptive properties of lutein are such that it can absorb the more harmful of these. The antioxidant properties of lutein are important in their own right, and can help to reduce cholesterol deposition in arties and help to maintain a healthy arterial wall thickness. The same is true of any carotenoids that reduce heart problems, some cancers, especially of the cervix, stomach and lungs, and others that can be caused by free radical action and narrowed arteries such as strokes and brain hemorrhages. Although it is not one of those supplements considered essential, lutein is biologically essential in that it cannot be produced by the body. It has to be taken through the diet. There is no specific recommended daily allowance (RDA) because life can go on without it, but it does play a role in your everyday health. However, the average person has a lutein intake less than that needed to take advantage of its UV protection or antioxidant effect. As previously stated, the effective dose is considered to be 30 mg daily, and the average American intake is about 2 mg. That’s an awful lot of egg yolks or tomatoes you are going to have to eat! If you do intend to take your lutein from the natural source, then it much more easily assimilated into your body if not overcooked. Lightly steaming is the best way to prepare your vegetables for maximum nutritional effect. You can also take lutein as a supplement in the form of tablets, creams and drinks, and can also be found in other supplements that contain carotenoids such as lycopene and beta-carotene. Although not consider essential to life, do not underestimate the health benefits to be gained from a diet high in lutein, especially if you value the health of your eyes. All strong antioxidants provide you with health benefits due to their ability to destroy the free radicals that in turn destroy the DNA in your body cells, and disrupt the cells themselves. Combine that with their action as filters to the damaging rays of the sun and you have in lutein a plant product that is far reaching in the health benefits that it can provide you with. If you are looking for a lutein supplement, stop into your local or internet health food store for lutein is an over the counter supplement.
(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1603) | ||||||||||||
Calcium, magnesium, and zinc are vital minerals that play a crucial role in maintaining good health. Each of these minerals are essential for various bodily functions and plays a critical role in promoting overall physical wellbeing. While some may know a few of the benefits of these minerals, it's important to understand how each of them contributes to better health and why they should be included in your diet. 
Do you want to improve your heart health, support brain function, and maintain your overall health? If so, then you need to start taking Vectomega! This revolutionary Omega-3 supplement is unlike any other on the market. Instead of using fish oil, Vectomega uses phospholipids to bind the Omega-3s. This makes them more effectively absorbed by the body and means that you only need to take one tablet a day!* Plus, Vectomega contains peptides which are not found in fish oil or krill oil. These peptides play a vital role in mood, immune system function, focus, and overall health! Don't miss out on this incredible supplement. Start taking Vectomega. 
Brain, Heart, and Eye Health 
Do you have trouble seeing at night? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world have difficulty seeing in low light conditions. Fortunately, there is a natural way to improve night vision. We will discuss Terry Naturally's Healthy Night Vision supplement and how it can help you see better in the dark! 
Vitamin E
What is beta carotene
Human beings have used the bark and roots of pine for many years for medicinal purposes. Pines also could be used for religious purposes in some communities. Most pine trees are found in Europe and Asia. There are approximately eighty species of pine trees and Norwegian and Scottish pine produces the greatest amount of pine oil.
What is Gluten
Before you can compare flaxseed oil and fish oil
Zinc
Spirulina is one of the most nutritious food on the planet. It tastes and smells like seaweed. It's packed with nutritious vitamins and minerals which make it considered as one of the super foods available to humans. 
Macular degeneration is a medical condition that affects older adults in most cases which results in a loss of sight or vision just in the center of the visual field due to damage of the retina. This is a very serious condition of the eye and it progresses over the years and in case left untreated may lead to further loss of sight. It has been found to be a major cause of older adults being visually impaired and usually age range is 50 years or older. Macular degeneration makes it hard or impossible to read or recognize faces, even though enough peripheral vision remains to make daily life activities remain doable. 
case that increased green leafy vegetable consumption does help prevent the risk of AMD. Sufficient lutein intake indicates risk reduction for macular degeneration and this can be obtained from a proper diet, but considering that the daily focus of attention is for the lutein. 
Lowers Bad Cholesterol 
Laboratory studies have indicated lycopene to possess strong antioxidant properties, as would also be assumed from its strongly conjugated chemical structure. This would account for its perceived effect upon age-related macular degeneration, and also its possible anti-cancer properties. Several studies have also been carried out using tomato juice in treating atherosclerosis, an oxidative condition involving cholesterol deposition on the internal walls of the arteries. 
Glucosamine is formed in the body from glucose. This compound is found naturally occurring in the joints of the body. It is important as a precursor and stimulant of the construction of proteoglycan synthesis, which forms the basis of cartilage. Also, glucosamine is important for the synthesis of substances that compose tendons, ligaments, the respiratory system, and the mucous membranes of the digestive and respiratory tracts. 
sulfate therapy helps to prevent joint destruction. Glucosamine sulfate is responsible for helping to heal, relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve damage to joint tissue, without causing the side effects that are often associated with drug therapy. 
Enzymes are absolutely essential for life. These naturally occurring substances are found in the human body, animals, and plants. More than 2,700 enzymes have been identified in the body, each of which is constantly in motion. Life is made up of a series of reactions known as metabolism. Enzymes are responsible for making this process work. Enzymes are involved in every individual biochemical function that takes place in the human body. Some even refer to these substances as the spark plugs of the body. Enzymes are responsible for digesting food and destroying toxins, viruses, antigens that invade the liver and bloodstream, parasites, and worms. They also help in the destruction of free radicals before cell damage can occur. The body would deteriorate without enzymes. These substances are necessary for the production of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids being converted into vital neurotransmitters, which allows the body to function properly. 
In the past decade, ginkgo has received much attention. It has been revered throughout China and other areas of Asia for thousands of years. However, its popularity increased in Western countries. An increase in sales can be attributed to interest in the benefits of ginkgo on conditions that are associated with aging like Alzheimer’s, memory loss, dementia, and circulatory disorders. Often, gingko is used to increase the blood flow to the brain, which improves memory problems like Alzheimer’s, to prevent strokes, and to increase blood circulation through vasodialation. The improved circulation is also thought to improve ear conditions, help blood flow to the retina, aid in preventing muscular degeneration, reduce frequency of asthma attacks, and help transplant recipients avoid rejection. 
Ginkgo has also been found to be effective in treating migraine headaches. In one study that took place in 1975, ginkgo extract was given to individuals who were suffering from migraines. Results concluded that eighty percent of the patients showed improvement or were cured of the condition. 
This is extremely helpful in conditions like retinopathy, cataracts and macular degeneration. The central nervous system possesses fat lipids in the cell membranes that are typically attracted by free radicals. Ginkgo can help protect these cell membranes and prevent condition which can occur in the brain and nervous system that are often associated with aging, like memory loss. 
