Search Term: " Funcional "

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Date: September 14, 2026 11:22 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: NSAIDs vs. Curcumin: Which One Relieves Joint Pain Without Stopping Healing?

Comparative Analysis of NSAIDs versus Curcumin in Musculoskeletal Tissue Repair

Primary Biological Mechanisms and Pharmacological Targets

The functional divergence between these two compounds becomes clear when considering an intuitive mechanical analogy. Tissue trauma resembles damage to a commercial building, where initial inflammation functions as the construction and demolition crew tasked with clearing rubble, stabilizing the foundation, and laying down fresh structural framing. NSAIDs function like abruptly cutting electrical power to the entire work site: the noisy machinery stops instantly and the immediate disturbance ceases, but the construction workers lose the power necessary to clean the debris and erect permanent walls. Conversely, curcumin operates as an experienced site manager: it silences unnecessary chaos and prevents site vandalism while ensuring that the skilled workers - specifically chondrocytes in cartilage and tenocytes in tendons - remain fully active, supplied, and capable of completing the restoration.   

At the cellular level, NSAIDs exert their effects through the catalytic inhibition of cyclooxygenase enzymes, categorized as constitutive cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and inducible cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Membrane phospholipids damaged during injury release arachidonic acid, which COX enzymes convert into pro-inflammatory lipid mediators known as prostanoids, most notably prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Nonselective NSAIDs block both isoforms, while selective coxibs specifically target COX-2. By shutting off PGE2 production, NSAIDs rapidly elevate pain thresholds and blunt localized swelling. However, because PGE2 also functions as a vital signaling cue for cellular recruitment, angiogenesis, and cellular proliferation, this total enzymatic shutdown strips local repair cells of the baseline signals required to orchestrate tissue regeneration.   

Curcumin avoids this indiscriminate pathway paralysis by acting upstream on master transcriptional control switches rather than directly neutralizing isolated enzymes. Its primary therapeutic mechanism centers on the inhibition of Nuclear Factor-kappa B (NF-kB) and Activator Protein-1 (AP-1) signaling networks. Under acute stress or chronic inflammatory loads, the NF-kB protein complex is released from its cytoplasmic inhibitor, IkBa, and translocates directly into the cell nucleus, where it drives the transcription of catabolic cytokines such as interleukin-1 beta (IL-1ß), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Curcumin blocks the phosphorylation and degradation of IkBa, effectively keeping NF-kB trapped in the cytoplasm. By preventing this nuclear entry, curcumin attenuates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and downstream matrix-degrading enzymes while preserving baseline physiological functions. Furthermore, curcumin activates the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and antioxidant response element (ARE) pathways, which upregulate endogenous cellular antioxidants to neutralize destructive reactive oxygen species (ROS) that induce cell death in injured joints.   

The Mechanisms of NSAID-Induced Inhibition in Cartilage and Tendon Repair

Cartilage maintenance depends on chondrocytes, the sole cell type residing within articular joints, which are responsible for generating and maintaining the extracellular matrix of Type II collagen and water-binding proteoglycans such as aggrecan. Because adult articular cartilage lacks a direct vascular network, major defect repair relies heavily on the recruitment and chondrogenic differentiation of subchondral mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) through endochondral ossification. Experimental evaluations demonstrate that systemic or intra-articular NSAID exposure halts this regenerative differentiation. Both nonselective NSAIDs and selective COX-2 inhibitors interfere with chondrocyte maturation and prevent successful tissue integration following cartilage transplantation or microfracture procedures.  At the cellular level, common NSAIDs - including indomethacin, ketorolac, and diclofenac - induce cell cycle arrest in chondrocytes by blocking transition from the resting G0 phase to the proliferative G1.

phase, substantially reducing viable cell numbers. Concurrently, NSAIDs downregulate Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 (BMP-2), an essential anabolic signaling molecule that orchestrates matrix synthesis. Histological analyses in animal models reveal that NSAID administration causes a marked loss of extracellular proteoglycan content and widespread chondrocyte depletion, yielding elevated modified Mankin scores that signify advanced structural degeneration. In layman's terms, proteoglycans serve as water-absorbing structural sponges that grant cartilage its elastic shock absorption. When NSAIDs deplete these molecules, the joint surface dries out, becomes brittle, and rapidly wears down under routine mechanical friction.   

Tendon healing is similarly susceptible to disruption by NSAIDs. Tendons operate as high-tensile structural cables composed of longitudinally arranged Type I collagen fibers, maintained by specialized fibroblasts termed tenocytes and tenoblasts. Healing after acute rupture or chronic tear progresses through an initial inflammatory phase, followed by a proliferative phase of cell migration, and culminates in a lengthy remodeling phase of collagen alignment. In vitro and in vivo studies establish that NSAIDs directly suppress the migration and proliferative capacity of tenocytes during the critical early healing window. Without an adequate cellular workforce migrating into the wound bed, provisional collagen scaffolding cannot be synthesized effectively.   

The disruption is particularly pronounced at the enthesis, the specialized fibrocartilaginous junction where soft tendon inserts into rigid bone. Re-establishing this transition zone requires coordinated bone remodeling and chondrogenic differentiation, both of which are hindered by COX inhibition. In animal rotator cuff repair models, early administration of NSAIDs significantly delays collagen fiber organization and impairs mechanical integration at the insertion site, resulting in a measurable decline in load-to-failure strength and overall tendon toughness. Furthermore, while prolonged inflammation contributes to pathological degeneration, the transient synthesis of PGE2 during the initial hours following injury is essential for regulating localized microvascular flow and hyperemic nutrient delivery. By eliminating this early prostanoid pulse, NSAIDs starve the repair zone of oxygen and circulating factors precisely when the cellular metabolic demand is highest.   

Beyond direct biochemical cytotoxicity, systemic NSAIDs introduce a physical hazard known as analgesic arthropathy. In musculoskeletal biomechanics, pain functions as a protective feedback mechanism, forcing the patient to unload an injured joint or limb to prevent structural overload. By effectively blunting the pain reflex while simultaneously undermining the cellular synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen, NSAIDs create a deceptive state of perceived recovery. Patients prematurely resume unrestricted weight-bearing and strenuous activity, placing substantial, uncompensated mechanical forces onto compromised cartilage surfaces and unhealed tendon fibers. Over time, this recurring mechanical trauma accelerates joint space narrowing, promotes microfractures in the subchondral plate, and hastens functional joint breakdown.   

Chondroprotective and Tenogenic Mechanisms of Curcumin

In articular cartilage, curcumin acts as a direct chondroprotective agent by dismantling the catabolic cascade induced by pro-inflammatory cytokines. When joint tissues are exposed to elevated IL-1ß and TNF-a, chondrocytes are provoked to synthesize matrix metalloproteinases - specifically collagenases such as MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-13 - along with aggrecanases like ADAMTS5. These enzymes function like enzymatic shears, systematically slicing through structural Type II collagen strands and degrading aggrecan cores. Curcumin suppresses the transcription and secretion of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and ADAMTS5 by neutralizing NF-kB and AP-1 activation. Concurrently, it upregulates Cbp/p300 Interacting Transactivator with ED-rich tail 2 (CITED2), an essential transcriptional regulator that represses matrix metalloproteinases at the genomic level.   

In addition to halting extracellular degradation, curcumin protects chondrocytes from inflammatory apoptosis. Exposure to oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokines typically triggers programmed cell death by activating the intrinsic caspase cascade. Curcumin suppresses this apoptotic pathway by reducing the cleavage of executioner caspase-3, downregulating the pro-apoptotic factor Bax, and elevating anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression. Microscopic and histological analyses of osteoarthritic cartilage treated with curcumin consistently show robust Safranin O staining, intact surface regularity, preserved chondrocyte density, and significantly reduced Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) degradation scores.   

Within tendon biology, curcumin promotes active tissue regeneration (tenogenesis) rather than inert scar formation. In animal models of tendon rupture and surgical repair, curcumin guides tendon-derived stem and progenitor cells (TSPCs) toward mature tenocyte differentiation. This lineage-specific differentiation is orchestrated primarily through activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/Akt) and Wnt/ß-catenin signaling cascades. As stem cells commit to the tenogenic pathway, they significantly upregulate crucial structural and phenotypic markers, including epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM), tenomodulin, and the master tendon transcription factor Scleraxis.   

Through this guided differentiation, curcumin supports the preferential synthesis and organized deposition of high-tensile Type I collagen fibers, the primary architectural building blocks of healthy tendons. Injured tendons typically fill with disorganized, loose Type III collagen, which forms a structurally inferior, compliant scar. Curcumin supplementation promotes the progressive maturation from primitive Type III collagen to densely packed, parallel Type I collagen fibrils, restoring native tensile strength and mechanical breaking force.   

A major clinical challenge following tendon surgery is the development of peritendinous adhesions, in which excessive fibrotic scar tissue binds the healing tendon to its synovial sheath, restricting range of motion and joint gliding. Postoperative tendon repair involves a balance between extrinsic healing (in which exterior fibroblasts infiltrate the defect and deposit messy scar tissue) and intrinsic healing (in which tenocytes within the tendon substance reconstruct the matrix). Curcumin suppresses excessive peritendinous inflammation and extrinsic fibrosis while accelerating intrinsic tenocyte repair. Biomechanical testing confirms that local or systemic curcumin administration yields lower adhesion scores, increased gliding distances, and superior functional mobility without sacrificing structural load-bearing capacity.   

Comparative Clinical Efficacy and Systemic Safety Profiles

In randomized, active-controlled clinical trials of knee osteoarthritis, optimized curcumin preparations have demonstrated clinical pain reduction and functional recovery comparable to standard therapeutic doses of NSAIDs. In a randomized, open-label parallel-arm study evaluating 139 patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, subjects received either 500 mg of a bio-enhanced curcumin extract three times daily or 50 mg of diclofenac sodium twice daily for 28 consecutive days. Patients treated with curcumin demonstrated comparable improvements in pain intensity on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and functional scores on the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at days 14 and 28, showing no statistically significant difference in therapeutic efficacy compared to diclofenac.   

However, the systemic tolerability profiles between the treatments diverged markedly. Overall adverse events occurred in only 13% of the curcumin group compared to 38% of the diclofenac cohort. In the diclofenac arm, 28% of patients developed dyspeptic symptoms severe enough to require concurrent treatment with H2-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors to prevent mucosal ulceration, whereas no patients in the curcumin cohort required gastroprotective intervention. Furthermore, the curcumin cohort experienced a significant reduction in flatulence and digestive discomfort, demonstrating beneficial gastric and intestinal cytoprotective effects.   

These safety observations are consistent across broader systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents inherently compromise gastrointestinal integrity by systematically depleting cytoprotective prostaglandins, leaving the gastric epithelium vulnerable to acid erosion and hemorrhage. In addition, systemic inhibition of renal and vascular COX enzymes by NSAIDs reduces renal perfusion and disrupts the balance between prostacyclin and thromboxane, elevating the risk of fluid retention, hypertension, and adverse cardiovascular thrombotic events. Curcumin does not suppress these physiological prostanoid pathways, making it free from ulcerogenic, nephrotoxic, and cardiotoxic properties at therapeutic dosages.   

A longstanding limitation of standard curcumin supplementation in clinical settings has been its low oral bioavailability. Native curcuminoids are highly lipophilic, poorly soluble in aqueous gastric fluids, and subject to rapid hepatic and intestinal phase II metabolism into inactive glucuronides and sulfates, leading to swift biliary and fecal excretion. Consequently, raw culinary turmeric powders struggle to achieve the therapeutic systemic circulating concentrations required to reach poorly vascularized joint and tendon compartments. Modern pharmacognosy has addressed this pharmacodynamic hurdle through advanced delivery formulations. Modern strategies - such as co-administration with the natural alkaloid piperine (which inhibits hepatic glucuronidation), micellar dispersions, phytosomal phospholipid complexes, and bio-enhanced submicron dispersions - elevate systemic blood bioavailability by ten- to thirty-fold compared to unformulated extracts. These modern delivery platforms ensure that therapeutic concentrations reach synovial fluid, subchondral bone, and fibrous tendon sheaths without requiring excessive oral dosing.   

Conclusions and Translational Clinical Implications

In contrast, curcumin provides a tissue-preserving alternative that decouples pain and inflammation control from cellular suppression. Operating upstream at the level of NF-kB and AP-1 transcriptional activation, curcumin attenuates the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines while leaving the physiological baseline of cellular metabolism intact. In cartilage, it actively represses the matrix-degrading enzymes MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-13, and ADAMTS5, maintains water-binding proteoglycan content, and protects chondrocytes from inflammatory apoptosis. In damaged tendons, curcumin stimulates tenogenic differentiation of local stem cells via PI3K/Akt signaling, supports the proper maturation of dense Type I collagen fibers, and prevents restrictive peritendinous scar adhesions, preserving both joint mobility and mechanical breaking strength.   

From a translational perspective, these findings indicate that clinical protocols should reconsider relying on continuous NSAIDs as the default intervention for connective tissue injuries, post-surgical recovery, and chronic degenerative conditions. Where synthetic NSAIDs are deemed necessary, their use should be confined to short-term acute flare-ups to avoid interrupting early tissue remodeling. For long-term joint preservation, ongoing tendinopathy rehabilitation, and chronic osteoarthritis management, optimized bio-enhanced curcumin formulations deliver pain relief and functional restoration comparable to conventional pharmaceuticals, all while preserving the biological processes required for lasting musculoskeletal repair.   

References:

pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

NSAID therapy effects on healing of bone, tendon, and the enthesis

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The Detrimental Effects of Systemic Ibuprofen Delivery on Tendon

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Conservative management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis - PMC

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Positives and negatives of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in

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researchgate.net

(PDF) Conservative management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis

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pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs influence cartilage healing

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Is Curcumine Useful in the Treatment and Prevention of ... - PMC - NIH

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Efficacy and mechanisms of curcumin in the treatment of osteoarthritis

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Biological actions of curcumin on articular chondrocytes - PubMed

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Curcumin slows osteoarthritis progression and relieves ... - PMC - NIH

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Do Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Have a Deleterious Effect

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Anti-inflammatory management for tendon injuries - friends or foes?

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pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

The mechanistic role of curcumin on matrix metalloproteinases in

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Therapeutic effects of turmeric or curcumin extract on pain and

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Curcumin inhibits chondrocyte apoptosis and inflammation in ... - PMC

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Analysis of the mechanism of curcumin against osteoarthritis using

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Synergistic enhancement of tendon-to-bone healing via anti ... - PMC

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

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pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Safety and efficacy of curcumin versus diclofenac in knee osteoarthritis

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pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A randomized, pilot study to assess the efficacy and safety ... - PubMed

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pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Effectiveness of curcuminoids in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis

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THE EFFECTS OF TRADITIONAL STRENGTHENING EXERCISES

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acpjournals.org

Putting Some Muscle into Osteoarthritis | Annals of Internal Medicine

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Do Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Have a Deleterious Effect

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Calebin A, a Compound of Turmeric, Down-Regulates Inflammation

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The Effect of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs on Tendon-to

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Chiropractor in Toronto, ON, Canada :: Head and Neck Pain

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Investigation of the association of long-term NSAID use with ... - PMC

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Curcumin Improves Functional Recovery of Ruptured Tendon by

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pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Chemically modified curcumin (CMC2.24) alleviates osteoarthritis

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Curcumin improves age-related and surgically induced osteoarthritis

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(PDF) Curcumin Improves Functional Recovery of Ruptured Tendon

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Investigation of the effects of umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal

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Effect of curcumin-loaded polycaprolactone scaffold on Achilles

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Controlled release of curcumin from curcumin-loaded nanomicelles

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Efficacy and safety of combination of curcuminoid complex ... - PMC

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The efficacy of Curcuma Longa L. extract as an adjuvant therapy in

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6653)

Date: September 11, 2026 01:29 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Secret to Gut Health: Feeding Your Microbiome for Maximum SCFAs

Your Complete Guide to Digestive Support: Building a Thriving Gut Microbiome

If you want to optimize your digestion, you need to understand how different fibers work, the magic of "postbiotics," and how specialized enzymes keep everything running smoothly.

The Magic of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)

When these good bacteria eat fiber, they release beneficial byproducts called Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) - most notably butyrate, acetate, and propionate.

Think of SCFAs as the ultimate super-fuel for your digestive system. They provide the main energy source for the cells lining your colon, helping to keep the gut barrier strong and preventing "leaky gut." SCFAs also help calm inflammation throughout the body and play a massive role in healthy metabolism. But to get these benefits, you have to feed your microbiome the right type of fibers.

The Ultimate SCFA-Boosting Trio

Here is a functional combination that acts as a powerhouse for your microbiome:

• Acacia Fiber: Sourced from the sap of the acacia tree, this fiber ferments very slowly in the gut. Because it ferments slowly, it provides a steady stream of food for bacteria all the way through the digestive tract without causing the sudden gas and bloating that other fibers can trigger.
• Inulin: Found in foods like chicory root and Jerusalem artichoke, inulin is a fast-fermenting fiber. It acts like high-octane fuel for specific beneficial bacteria, particularly Bifidobacteria.
• Pure Cacao Powder: While not a traditional fiber, pure, unsweetened cacao is packed with polyphenols (plant compounds). Your gut bacteria actually break these polyphenols down, and in the process, they multiply and produce even more SCFAs.

Glucomannan vs. Psyllium: Which Fiber is Right for You?

Can You Take Fiber With Vitamins?

The short answer is no. You should separate them.

Because soluble fibers (like psyllium, glucomannan, and even high doses of acacia) form a thick, sticky gel in your digestive tract, they act like a sponge. If you take them at the exact same time as your daily vitamins or minerals, the fiber can bind to the nutrients. Instead of absorbing those vitamins into your bloodstream, your body will simply sweep them out in your next bowel movement.

The Golden Rule: Take your vitamin and mineral supplements at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking a heavy fiber supplement.

Beyond Fiber: The Benefits of Ox Bile for Fat Digestion

Bile is a fluid produced by your liver and stored in your gallbladder. When you eat fats, your gallbladder squirts bile into your intestines. Think of bile like dish soap on a greasy frying pan—it emulsifies the fat, breaking it down into tiny droplets so your body can absorb it.

If you have had your gallbladder removed, or if your liver is simply sluggish, your body might not release enough bile. This means fats pass through your system undigested, missing out on crucial fat-soluble vitamins (like Vitamins A, D, E, and K).

This is where ox bile comes in.

Taken as a supplement with meals, ox bile closely mimics human bile. The benefits include:

• Better Nutrient Absorption: Helps your body extract vitamins from healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, and fish.
• Reduced Bloating: Prevents undigested fats from fermenting and causing gas in the lower intestines.
• Gallbladder Support: Provides relief for those who struggle to digest fats after gallbladder removal surgery.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6652)

Date: September 10, 2026 10:57 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Ultimate Guide to Cellular Longevity: NAD+, Methylation, and Senolytics

Introduction: Understanding Cellular Aging and Energy Decline

Cellular aging is characterized by interconnected biological disruptions known as the hallmarks of aging. These encompass genomic instability, epigenetic alterations, mitochondrial decay, loss of proteostasis, and cellular senescence. Rather than operating as isolated occurrences, these phenomena establish a self-reinforcing degenerative cycle: declining cellular power generation impairs enzymatic genetic repair, promoting the accumulation of damaged cells that enter irreversible growth arrest and poison surrounding healthy tissues. Mitigating cellular aging requires examining how microscopic bioenergetic pathways deteriorate and evaluating how targeted nutritional and biochemical interventions can restore cellular homeostasis.

The Role of Mitochondria and ATP Production

A youthful cell functions like an efficient municipal power grid, dynamically matching energetic demands with immediate ATP output. However, as biological aging progresses, mitochondrial efficiency declines. The electron transport chain becomes structurally leaky, inadvertently shedding electrons that react with ambient molecular oxygen to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). While regulated levels of ROS participate in vital intracellular signaling, chronic excess induces widespread oxidative stress.

Mitochondria are exceptionally vulnerable to this oxidative burden because they carry their own circular genetic material, known as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Unlike nuclear DNA, mtDNA lacks the protective shielding of histone proteins and possesses rudimentary repair systems. As a result, mtDNA sustains cumulative oxidative damage, encoding increasingly defective electron transport chain proteins. This dynamic generates a bioenergetic deficit: degraded mitochondria synthesize progressively less ATP while emitting greater volumes of damaging free radicals. Deprived of optimal ATP reserves, cells lack the energy necessary to drive vital enzymatic repair cascades, accelerating structural degeneration and functional exhaustion.

How Cellular Senescence Accelerates the Aging Process

Senescent cells, colloquially known as "zombie cells," enter a state of permanent growth arrest while actively resisting programmed cell death (apoptosis). Over time, these cells accumulate within adipose depots, skeletal muscle, the vascular endothelium, and major organs, largely because immune surveillance and clearance pathways simultaneously lose functional efficiency.

The systemic danger of senescent cells stems from their secretome. Rather than remaining biologically inert, senescent cells develop a hyperactive secretory state termed the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP). The SASP is a destructive mixture of pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, extracellular matrix-degrading matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and reactive oxygen species.

Through this toxic secretome, even a small burden of senescent cells can impair whole-tissue architecture. SASP factors degrade surrounding structural proteins, induce insulin resistance in neighboring metabolic cells, and biochemically force adjacent healthy cells into secondary senescence. This persistent paracrine signaling fuels chronic, sterile, low-grade systemic inflammation, termed "inflammaging," which accelerates systemic tissue degeneration and elevates susceptibility to degenerative age-related pathologies.

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) and the NAD+ Salvage Pathway

The Biochemistry of NAD+ Depletion Over Time

The primary enzymatic driver of age-related NAD+ destruction is CD38, a membrane-bound glycohydrolase expressed on immune cells that is upregulated in response to chronic SASP exposure. Concurrently, lifelong genotoxic damage causes persistent activation of Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1), an enzyme that cleaves the glycosidic bonds of NAD+ to assemble branched poly(ADP-ribose) chains at DNA lesion sites. Because PARP-1 consumes NAD+ without directly recycling the molecule, chronic DNA damage depletes intracellular NAD+ pools, impairing bioenergetics and limiting sirtuin activity.

How NR Efficiently Boosts Cellular NAD+ Levels

The salvage pathway recycles the breakdown product nicotinamide (NAM), which is released whenever NAD+-consuming enzymes execute their functions. Under normal conditions, cells convert free nicotinamide into nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) via the rate-limiting enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT), after which NMN adenylyltransferases (NMNAT1–3) complete the conversion into NAD+. However, NAMPT expression declines with advancing age, chronic inflammation, and metabolic stress, limiting the recycling capacity of the cell.

Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is a naturally occurring pyridine nucleoside that bypasses this enzymatic bottleneck. Upon cellular entry via equilibrative nucleoside transporters, NR is directly phosphorylated into NMN by nicotinamide riboside kinases (NRK1 and NRK2) using a single molecule of ATP. Because the NRK pathway remains intact and robust across the lifespan, NR provides an efficient alternative entry point into the NAD+ salvage cascade.

Clinical evaluations in humans confirm the safety, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics of oral NR supplementation. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials reveal that oral NR chloride produces dose-dependent increases in steady-state whole blood NAD+ concentrations. Dosing regimens of 100 mg, 300 mg, and 1,000 mg daily elevate blood NAD+ levels by approximately 22%, 51%, and up to 142%, respectively, within two weeks of administration, maintaining these elevations throughout continuous use. High-resolution metabolomic analyses also demonstrate parallel elevations in nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide (NAAD), establishing it as a reliable biomarker of active intracellular NAD+ synthesis without hepatic or systemic toxicity.

Sirtuin Activation and DNA Repair Mechanisms

In the nucleus, SIRT1 coordinates defense against cellular decline. When activated by restored NAD+ levels, SIRT1 deacetylates peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma coactivator 1-alpha (PGC-1a), the master transcriptional coactivator of mitochondrial biogenesis. This deacetylation stimulates mitochondrial replication and assembly, expanding functional respiratory capacity. Concurrently, SIRT1 deacetylates the p65 subunit of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB), suppressing the transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines. In the mitochondria, SIRT3 utilizes NAD+ to deacetylate metabolic enzymes and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2), enhancing the organelle's capacity to neutralize reactive oxygen species.

At the same time, cellular NAD+ levels directly regulate genomic integrity through PARP-1. When genotoxic stress or oxidative damage induces single- or double-strand DNA breaks, PARP-1 binds to the damaged termini using its zinc-finger domains. Bound PARP-1 hydrolyzes NAD+ to synthesize extensive, negatively charged poly(ADP-ribose) polymers on itself and adjacent histones. This modification relaxes chromatin architecture and establishes an electrostatic scaffold that recruits base excision repair and homologous recombination complexes.

Recent discoveries demonstrate close crosstalk between sirtuins and PARP-1 during DNA repair. PARP-1 recruits SIRT1 to double-strand breaks, where SIRT1 deacetylates the chromatin-remodeling ATPase BRG1 to displace nucleosomes and facilitate homologous recombination. However, because PARP-1 and SIRT1 draw from the same intracellular NAD+ pool, severe NAD+ depletion forces a biological compromise: PARP-1 consumes the scarce remaining cofactor to address DNA damage, leaving sirtuins deactivated. Restoring NAD+ via NR prevents this deficit, enabling concurrent genomic repair and sirtuin-mediated metabolic defense.

Quercetin: A Powerful Senolytic and mTOR Regulator

Clearing Senescent "Zombie" Cells from Tissues

Quercetin is a polyphenolic flavonoid found in capers, red onions, apples, and the flower buds of Sophora japonica. Beyond its classical antioxidant properties, quercetin functions as a senolytic compound that exerts multi-target inhibitory effects across the SCAP network. By inhibiting the upstream PI3K/Akt survival axis and downregulating anti-apoptotic defenses, quercetin disrupts the signaling that protects senescent cells from intrinsic apoptosis. Deprived of these survival signals, senescent cells undergo programmed cell death.

Preclinical studies demonstrate that senolytic protocols utilizing quercetin - often combined with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor dasatinib - reduce senescent cell burden across multiple tissues. This targeted clearance lowers circulating SASP factors, attenuates tissue fibrosis, restores endothelial reactivity, and improves functional health span. By removing senescent cells, quercetin mitigates the primary driver of chronic, low-grade inflammaging.

Modulating the mTOR Pathway for Optimal Autophagy

Autophagy is an intracellular degradation system that packages damaged organelles, misfolded protein aggregates, and biological debris into double-membraned autophagosomes for lysosomal degradation and recycling. A specialized branch of this pathway, mitophagy, selectively targets and clears damaged mitochondria. In modern metabolic conditions characterized by continuous caloric intake, mTORC1 can remain persistently active. This persistent signaling suppresses autophagy, causing damaged organelles and toxic aggregates to accumulate within tissues.

Quercetin functions as a natural modulator of mTOR signaling. By inhibiting upstream PI3K/Akt signaling and activating intracellular energy sensors, quercetin attenuates overactive mTORC1, mimicking the metabolic effects of caloric restriction. This down-regulation relieves inhibition on the ULK1 autophagy initiation complex, stimulating both general autophagy and mitophagy. As autophagy proceeds, cells clear protein aggregates and eliminate damaged mitochondria, supporting cellular longevity and proteostasis.

Enhancing Absorption: Phytosomes and Dietary Fats

To address these pharmacokinetic limitations, advanced delivery systems such as phytosomes were engineered. A phytosome is a 100% food-grade molecular complex where individual polyphenolic molecules are bound to dietary phospholipids, typically sunflower-derived phosphatidylcholine. Unlike a classical liposome - which encapsulates water-soluble compounds inside an aqueous core enclosed by a lipid bilayer - a phytosome forms an amphiphilic complex at the molecular level.

The polar head of the phosphatidylcholine molecule forms hydrogen bonds with the hydroxyl groups of the quercetin molecule, while its lipophilic fatty acid tails extend outward. This structural arrangement shields the polar regions of the flavonoid, creating a lipid-compatible complex that integrates smoothly into the intestinal mucosa.

The Importance of Methylation in Healthy Aging

Vitamin B-Complex and Choline as Essential Methyl Donors

At the center of this pathway sits S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), the universal methyl donor in human biology. When a methyltransferase enzyme transfers a methyl group from SAM to an acceptor molecule, SAM is converted into S-adenosylhomocysteine (SAH). SAH functions as a potent competitive inhibitor of intracellular methyltransferases. To maintain functional methylation, SAH is rapidly hydrolyzed into homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid that must be remethylated or cleared through transsulfuration.

Homocysteine clearance proceeds through two distinct remethylation pathways. The primary route operates across most tissues via the enzyme methionine synthase, which requires vitamin B12 in its active methylcobalamin form. Methionine synthase transfers a methyl group from 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF, the active form of folate) to homocysteine, regenerating methionine. The ongoing production of 5-MTHF depends on the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), which utilizes riboflavin (vitamin B2) as a cofactor.

Alternatively, excess homocysteine can be routed into the transsulfuration pathway by vitamin B6 (as pyridoxal-5'-phosphate) to synthesize cystathionine, cysteine, and ultimately the antioxidant glutathione.

A secondary remethylation pathway, active predominantly in hepatic and renal tissues, bypasses folate entirely. In this route, dietary choline is oxidized to betaine (trimethylglycine or TMG). The enzyme betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase (BHMT) then transfers a methyl group from betaine directly to homocysteine, yielding methionine and dimethylglycine.

When dietary intake of active B-vitamins or choline is insufficient, or when genetic variations like MTHFR polymorphisms reduce pathway flux, the methylation cycle slows. Homocysteine accumulates in circulation, promoting vascular and neurological inflammation, while SAM reserves decline, restricting cellular methylation capacity.

Understanding DNA Methylation and Epigenetic Health

Under physiological conditions, DNA methylation maintains genomic stability and coordinates transcription. Methylation of promoter regions condenses chromatin, repressing transposable elements and silencing genes inappropriate for a given cell type. Conversely, hypomethylated promoters maintain an open chromatin state, allowing transcription factors to bind and initiate gene expression.

During biological aging, this epigenetic landscape undergoes progressive dysregulation, a phenomenon termed "epigenetic drift". Aging cells experience global hypomethylation alongside focal hypermethylation of specific gene promoters. Global loss of methyl tags destabilizes the genome, activating retrotransposons and pro-inflammatory pathways. Simultaneously, hypermethylation at targeted promoter sites silences critical tumor suppressor genes and DNA repair complexes.

This systematic change in DNA methylation patterns is consistent across populations, allowing researchers to develop molecular "epigenetic clocks". Algorithms such as the Horvath clock, PhenoAge, and GrimAge quantify biological age by profiling the methylation status of specific CpG sites across the genome. These clocks assess whether individuals are aging faster or slower than their chronological years. Ensuring a steady supply of methyl donors and preventing unnecessary SAM depletion supports DNMT activity, maintaining epigenetic patterns and genomic stability.

How the Methylation Cycle Impacts Energy and Cognitive Focus

A major consumer of methyl reserves is the endogenous synthesis of creatine. Approximately 40% of all SAM-derived methyl groups in the human body are utilized by guanidinoacetate N-methyltransferase (GAMT) in the liver to synthesize creatine. Creatine then translocates to the brain and skeletal muscle, where it is phosphorylated into phosphocreatine.

Phosphocreatine functions as a rapid energy buffer, donating a high-energy phosphate group to regenerate ADP into ATP in milliseconds during demanding physical or cognitive tasks. When methyl donor availability falls, endogenous creatine synthesis drops, depleting phosphocreatine reserves and increasing susceptibility to neuromuscular and cognitive fatigue.

Methylation is equally central to central nervous system architecture. SAM provides methyl groups to convert phosphatidylethanolamine into phosphatidylcholine, the predominant phospholipid comprising neuronal cell membranes and the myelin sheaths that insulate axons. Intact myelin preserves rapid action potential conduction throughout the nervous system.

Furthermore, free choline derived from this pathway is the direct precursor to acetylcholine, the neurotransmitter required for attention, working memory, and learning.

The methylation cycle also governs monoamine neurotransmitter metabolism. SAM is required for the synthesis of adrenaline (epinephrine) from noradrenaline, while catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) relies on SAM to degrade dopamine and norepinephrine within the prefrontal cortex. Sluggish methylation disrupts this balance, contributing to cognitive fatigue, mood variability, and impaired mental performance.

Building a Comprehensive Longevity Protocol

Synergizing NR, Quercetin, and Methylated B-Vitamins

This synergy is grounded in the direct biochemical intersection between the NAD+ salvage pathway and the methylation cycle. When high-dose NR is supplemented to boost systemic NAD+, sirtuins and PARP enzymes consume the newly synthesized cofactor, generating substantial quantities of free nicotinamide (NAM). This intracellular nicotinamide faces two primary metabolic fates: it can be recycled back into NAD+ through the NAMPT-dependent salvage loop, or it can be cleared via methylation.

When the influx of nicotinamide exceeds salvage recycling capacity, the excess is cleared to avoid feedback inhibition of sirtuin enzymes. To accomplish this, the enzyme nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) transfers a methyl group from SAM directly onto nicotinamide, forming 1-methylnicotinamide (1-MNA/MNAM), which is subsequently excreted in urine.

Prolonged, high-dose precursor administration without nutritional methyl support can elevate NNMT flux, depleting intracellular SAM reserves. As methyl groups are consumed clearing nicotinamide, the cellular SAM-to-SAH ratio falls, which can elevate circulating homocysteine and reduce methyl availability for DNA methylation and neurotransmitter synthesis.

Co-administering a fully methylated B-complex alongside choline or betaine addresses this potential bottleneck. Providing active methyl donors (such as 5-MTHF, methylcobalamin, and betaine) maintains the one-carbon donor pool. Even during increased NNMT activity, SAM pools remain stable, protecting DNA methylation fidelity and maintaining homocysteine within safe parameters.

Quercetin reinforces this protocol through complementary mechanisms. By clearing senescent cells and reducing SASP-mediated inflammation, quercetin downregulates CD38, the primary enzyme responsible for age-related NAD+ degradation. Suppressing CD38 prevents unnecessary breakdown of newly synthesized NAD+, enhancing the efficiency of NR supplementation.

Furthermore, while NR provides the NAD+ necessary to activate SIRT1-driven mitochondrial biogenesis, quercetin concurrently modulates mTORC1 to stimulate autophagy. This coordinated action ensures that newly generated mitochondria operate in an environment cleared of proteotoxic cellular debris.

The Crucial Role of Magnesium Glycinate and Zinc in Cellular Function

Magnesium serves as an obligatory cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions, primarily through its interaction with ATP. In biological systems, ATP exists predominantly as a chelate with a divalent magnesium ion, forming biologically active Mg2+ -ATP.

Every enzymatic reaction that synthesizes, transfers, or consumes cellular energy - including the enzymes of the NAD+ salvage pathway (NRK and NMNAT) and DNA polymerases - strictly requires Mg2+ -ATP as its substrate. Magnesium deficiency impairs these phosphorylation reactions, reducing the cellular utilization of NAD+ precursors.

Additionally, magnesium is an essential cofactor for the enzymes that activate dietary B-vitamins into their active forms. Supplying magnesium as magnesium glycinate provides high gastrointestinal bioavailability, minimal laxative effect, and yields glycine to support inhibitory neurotransmission and restful sleep.

Zinc serves as a vital structural component for more than 3,000 human transcription factors and enzymatic proteins. Its most prominent structural role in longevity occurs within zinc-finger motifs. These are specialized protein conformations stabilized by a zinc ion coordinated to cysteine and histidine residues.

The DNA damage sensor PARP-1 utilizes three zinc-finger domains to identify, track, and physically bind to single- and double-strand DNA breaks. Without adequate intracellular zinc, PARP-1 cannot properly assemble or dock onto damaged chromosomes, impairing DNA repair and increasing genomic instability.

Zinc is also an obligatory structural component of copper/zinc superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD or SOD1), the primary cytosolic antioxidant enzyme that dismutates superoxide radicals into hydrogen peroxide, protecting mitochondrial membranes and nuclear DNA from premature senescence.

Integrating Prebiotics (like Acacia and Inulin) for Gut-Derived Longevity Markers

The gut epithelium consists of a single-cell monolayer sealed by tight junction proteins, including zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1), occludin, and claudins. When this physical barrier is disrupted by poor dietary fiber intake or dysbiosis, gut permeability increases.

This allows lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, to enter the portal and systemic circulation. The resulting "metabolic endotoxemia" activates Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on immune cells, inducing NF-kB and systemic pro-inflammatory cytokine production. This persistent gut-derived inflammation exacerbates the SASP, accelerates tissue senescence, upregulates CD38, and drains systemic NAD+ reserves.

These short-chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate, exert direct protective effects on systemic longevity. Butyrate provides the primary metabolic fuel for colonic epithelial cells, supplying more than 70% of their baseline energy needs and supporting mitochondrial function within colonocytes.

Furthermore, SCFAs upregulate the expression of epithelial tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1), restoring intestinal barrier integrity and preventing the translocation of inflammatory LPS into systemic circulation.

Systemically absorbed butyrate also functions as an endogenous histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor, suppressing pro-inflammatory gene expression and supporting regulatory T cell (T_reg) development. Reducing metabolic endotoxemia dampens systemic inflammation, protecting vascular function and preventing premature NAD+ depletion.

Conclusion: The Integrated Cellular Longevity Matrix

Quercetin Phytosome clears senescent cells and modulates mTORC1, stimulating autophagy while dampening the inflammatory SASP cascade that accelerates CD38-mediated NAD+ destruction.

Methylated B-vitamins, active folate, and choline replenish SAM reserves, balancing the methyl requirements of NNMT-mediated nicotinamide clearance, preserving epigenetic DNA methylation, and maintaining neurotransmitter production.

Magnesium glycinate and zinc provide the structural and catalytic foundation required for ATP utilization, B-vitamin activation, and PARP-1 zinc-finger DNA repair docking.

Finally, prebiotic fibers generate short-chain fatty acids like butyrate, reinforcing the intestinal barrier and preventing metabolic endotoxemia from fueling systemic inflammation.

By coordinating energy replenishment, cellular waste clearance, epigenetic maintenance, and the suppression of systemic inflammation, this unified approach directly addresses the underlying drivers of cellular aging to support long-term physiological vitality.

--
Content Put together by Darrell Miller CEO of VitaNet LLC

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6650)

Date: September 09, 2026 05:22 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Unlocking Your Cellular Vitality: Understanding the Role of Mitochondria in Energy and Aging

Introduction: Understanding Cellular Aging and Energy Decline

Most people think aging is something that happens strictly on the outside - fine lines around the eyes, stiff joints, or gray hairs. In reality, aging begins at a microscopic scale inside your cells, the microscopic building blocks that make up every tissue, muscle, and organ in your body.

Every single day, your body relies on roughly 30 trillion cells working in unison. When your cells are young and resilient, they operate like a well-oiled machine: they repair minor damage instantly, clear away waste, and produce abundant energy. But over time, two fundamental biological shifts take place:

1. Your cellular power plants start slowing down, reducing the steady flow of energy your body needs to thrive.
2. Damaged cells refuse to recycle themselves, lingering behind and creating biological friction for healthy neighbors.

The Role of Mitochondria and ATP Production

Often called the "powerhouses" of the cell, mitochondria function like miniature power stations. A single cell can house hundreds or even thousands of them, especially energy-hungry cells like those in your heart, brain, and skeletal muscles.

The Body’s Energy Currency: What is ATP?

Think of ATP as your body’s universal energy currency:

• Every heartbeat "spends" ATP.
• Every thought, muscle contraction, and cellular repair job requires a steady supply of ATP coins.
• In the folds of the inner mitochondrial membrane (the cristae pictured above), microscopic protein motors called ATP synthase act like tiny hydroelectric turbines, churning out billions of ATP molecules every second.

Why Cellular Energy Production Declines with Age

Much like an engine produces exhaust fumes while burning fuel, mitochondria produce reactive byproducts known as free radicals (reactive oxygen species). Over decades, these "exhaust fumes" slowly damage the inner machinery of the mitochondria:

• Mitochondrial DNA Damage: Unlike other parts of the cell, mitochondria possess their own distinct DNA, which sits right next to where the oxidative "exhaust" is released. Because this DNA lacks the robust defense systems of your main cellular nucleus, it accumulates wear and tear faster.
• Leaky, Less Efficient Turbines: Damaged mitochondria struggle to produce ATP at full capacity. Instead of generating clean energy, they burn fuel inefficiently and generate even more oxidative stress.
• Reduced Mitochondrial Number: As damaged mitochondria break down faster than the cell can replace them, the total number of working power generators inside each cell drops.

How Cellular Senescence Accelerates the Aging Process

In a healthy body, normal cells follow a strict lifecycle: they divide, perform their jobs, and when they incur significant damage or reach the end of their useful lifespan, they undergo a tidy self-destruction process called apoptosis (programmed cell death). Your immune system then clears away the debris, making room for fresh, vibrant cells.

Cellular senescence happens when this cleanup process fails.

The "Zombie Cell" Phenomenon

The cell enters a permanent state of dormancy:

• It permanently stops dividing.
• Crucially, it refuses to die.

Why Zombie Cells Are So Damaging: The Bad Apple Effect

This cocktail is packed with pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, and tissue-degrading enzymes. Picture one spoiled apple sitting in a fruit basket: the ethylene gas it emits quickly causes the healthy apples surrounding it to rot.

In the same way, the toxic secretions from zombie cells:

1. Spread the Damage: They trigger inflammation and induce premature senescence in healthy neighboring cells.
2. Break Down Healthy Tissue: The enzymes degrade the extracellular matrix (the collagen and elastin scaffolds that keep skin firm and arteries flexible).
3. Exhaust the Immune System: Your immune cells are dispatched to manage the constant, low-grade alarm signals, gradually wearing out your natural defense network.

The Vicious Cycle of Cellular Aging

What This Means for Everyday Health

• Exercise Stimulates New Power Plants: High-intensity intervals and resistance training trigger a process called mitochondrial biogenesis - prompting your cells to build brand-new, clean-burning mitochondria.
• Fasting & Caloric Balance Trigger Autophagy: Periods between meals signal cells to clean house, breaking down dysfunctional proteins and clearing away debris.
• Targeted Micronutrients & Antioxidants: Supporting key cellular cofactors (such as NAD+, CoQ10, and polyphenols) helps shield mitochondrial membranes from oxidative strain and supports the body's natural cellular renewal pathways.

Summary:

Aging is fundamentally a microscopic process occurring inside the body's trillions of cells, which naturally become less resilient over time. Central to this decline are the mitochondria, the tiny structures that function as the cell's "power plants" to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the universal chemical currency for everyday energy. While young mitochondria are abundant and pristine, decades of producing ATP generate oxidative stress through byproducts called free radicals, which eventually wear down and damage mitochondrial DNA and machinery. This damage results in fewer, less efficient power generators, lowering total cellular energy output, which individuals experience as real-world physical fatigue and mental fog.

Aging is further accelerated by cellular senescence, a condition where damaged cells stop dividing but, instead of naturally self-destructing like healthy ones, linger behind as dormant "zombie cells." These senescent cells secrete a pro-inflammatory chemical mixture known as the Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP), which functions like a "bad apple" by poisoning healthy neighboring cells and tissues, creating a state of chronic biological pollution termed "inflammaging." Mitochondrial decay and senescence feed into one another in a vicious cycle that directly drives overall aging. However, longevity science highlights that healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise and periods of fasting, can support continued vitality by encouraging the development of new mitochondria and the clearing of this toxic cellular clutter.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6649)

Date: July 08, 2026 12:43 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Does Methylation Effect Active Vitamin D3 Levels in the body?

Does Methylation Effect Active Vitamin D3 Levels in the body?

Yes, methylation directly and significantly impacts how efficiently your body converts Vitamin D3 into its active, usable form. This relationship operates on two distinct levels: epigenetic DNA methylation (which acts as a volume knob for the conversion enzymes) and the cellular methylation cycle (which shares a profound reciprocal feedback loop with active Vitamin D).

To see exactly where methylation interferes, it helps to look at the standard two-step activation pathway:

1. In the Liver: Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is converted into 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D, or calcidiol] primarily by the enzyme CYP2R1. This is what is measured on standard blood tests.
2. In the Kidneys & Tissues: Calcidiol is converted into the biologically active steroid hormone, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D, or calcitriol] by the enzyme CYP27B1.

1. DNA Methylation (The Epigenetic "Dimmer Switch")

• The "Non-Responder" Phenomenon: Clinical data shows that baseline DNA methylation levels at the promoter regions of the CYP2R1 gene heavily dictate how an individual responds to Vitamin D supplementation.
• Enzyme Suppression: If the promoter region of your CYP2R1 gene is hypermethylated (over-methylated), the gene is partially silenced. Your liver produces fewer 25-hydroxylase enzymes, making it highly inefficient at converting raw D3 into circulating 25(OH)D.
• The Data: In clinical trials comparing Vitamin D "responders" to "non-responders," responders had significantly lower baseline DNA methylation at the CYP2R1 promoter (around 8%), allowing for robust enzyme production. Non-responders had high baseline methylation (around 30%), severely blunting their body's ability to utilize oral D3.
• Deactivation Control: Methylation also regulates CYP24A1, the enzyme responsible for degrading and clearing active Vitamin D to prevent toxicity. Altered methylation here can cause the body to burn through active Vitamin D too quickly.

2. The Systemic Methylation Cycle Feedback Loop

• Upregulating the Cycle via VDR: Once Vitamin D is successfully activated into calcitriol, it binds to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR). This activated VDR complex directly upregulates the expression of the BHMT (Betaine-Homocysteine S-Methyltransferase) gene.
• Protecting the SAMe Pool: BHMT is a crucial enzyme in the liver and kidneys that converts homocysteine back into methionine via an alternative pathway. Methionine is the direct precursor required to generate SAMe, your universal methyl donor.

The Vitamin D "Non-Responder": Is Your DNA Dimming Your Supplement’s Power?

Yes, higher active Vitamin D3 levels consistently cause homocysteine levels to drop.

Large-scale observational studies and gold-standard randomized controlled trials (RCTs) confirm a distinct, inverse relationship: as your Vitamin D status optimizes, circulating total homocysteine decreases. When active D3 binds to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR), it triggers specific genetic and cellular actions that clear homocysteine through multiple pathways.

The Biological Mechanisms

1. Upregulation of Methionine Synthase (MTR)

• The active Vitamin D/VDR complex activates Nrf2 (a master antioxidant and cellular defense transcription factor).
• This Nrf2 activation directly binds to and upregulates the promoter region of the MTR gene (Methionine Synthase).
• More MTR enzymes mean your cells can rapidly pull homocysteine out of circulation and convert it back into methionine using 5-MTHF and Vitamin B12.

2. Safeguarding Enzyme Function via Oxidative Stress Reduction

• Active D3 acts as a potent systemic anti-inflammatory.
• Clinical trials show that when Vitamin D drops markers like C-Reactive Protein (CRP), it lowers cellular oxidative stress.
• This environment keeps your existing MTR and MTRR (Methionine Synthase Reductase) enzymes fully active and running smoothly.

3. Preserving Liver and Kidney Function

What the Clinical Trials Show

The Clinical Evidence: In double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials, individuals with low baseline Vitamin D and elevated homocysteine were given high-dose Vitamin D3 (e.g., 50,000 IU weekly) over a two-month period. The treatment groups consistently showed statistically significant drops in total serum homocysteine, alongside reductions in body mass index (BMI) and systemic inflammatory markers, while the placebo groups saw no change.

If someone is dealing with stubborn hyperhomocysteinemia (elevated homocysteine) and pushing hard on methylated B-vitamins (like methylfolate and TMG/betaine) without seeing their numbers budge, a hidden Vitamin D deficiency or a high-methylation genetic barrier at the CYP2R1 liver enzyme is very frequently the missing link.

Summary:

The relationship between Vitamin D3 activation and the body's biochemical pathways operates as a highly coordinated, reciprocal feedback loop. On an epigenetic level, DNA methylation acts like a cellular dimmer switch for the liver enzyme CYP2R1, which is responsible for converting raw D3 into its circulating form. When the promoter region of this gene is heavily methylated, enzyme production is suppressed, explaining why some individuals act as clinical "non-responders" who struggle to raise their blood levels even with high-dose supplementation. Once Vitamin D is successfully activated, however, it turns around and directly reinforces the systemic methylation cycle by binding to the Vitamin D Receptor (VDR) and upregulating the BHMT gene, which is vital for maintaining the body's universal methyl donor (SAMe) pool.

Conversely, maintaining robust levels of active Vitamin D3 plays a direct, clinically proven role in forcing circulating homocysteine levels to drop. When active D3 binds to its receptor, it triggers a multi-pronged clearance strategy by activating the Nrf2 cellular defense pathway, which upregulates Methionine Synthase (MTR) - the primary enzyme that converts toxic homocysteine back into harmless methionine. Furthermore, by acting as a powerful systemic anti-inflammatory, active Vitamin D lowers the oxidative stress that would otherwise oxidize and disable the delicate B12 cofactors inside these clearance enzymes. This dual action of increasing enzyme production while shielding existing enzymes from environmental damage explains why clinical trials consistently show significant reductions in serum homocysteine when Vitamin D status is optimized.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6644)

Date: April 15, 2026 02:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Silent Deficiency: Why 60% of Americans Are Running on Empty (and How to Fix It) 

Magnesium is often called the "master mineral," and for good reason. It acts like a biological coolant, keeping your cellular machinery from overheating when life gets hectic. Here is a breakdown of why this mineral is so critical and why most of us are running on empty.

Cellular Stability: The Body's "Brake" System

When you are under stress, your cells can become flooded with calcium, which "excites" the cell. Magnesium sits at the "gate," ensuring that only the necessary amount of calcium enters. Without enough magnesium, cells become hyper-excitable, leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, and even cell death. Furthermore, magnesium is a required co-factor for the production and stability of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy currency of the cell. In fact, ATP is usually found in the body as a complex called Mg^2+-ATP.

Why Our Modern World is Magnesium-Poor

1. Depleted Soil

2. Food Processing

The "Invisible" Deficiency

However, many functional medicine experts argue this number is actually higher because the RDA is designed to prevent acute deficiency, not to optimize health. Furthermore, magnesium is stored in bones and soft tissue, not the blood, meaning standard "Serum Magnesium" blood tests often miss a deficiency until it is dangerously low.

The Gold Standard: Magnesium Glycinate

Unlike Magnesium Oxide (which has poor absorption) or Magnesium Citrate (which can have a laxative effect), Magnesium Glycinate is chelated with the amino acid glycine. This makes it:

• Highly Bioavailable: Your body absorbs it easily through the intestinal wall.
• Gentle on the Gut: It rarely causes the "bathroom emergencies" associated with other forms.
• Calming: Glycine itself is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and better sleep.

Benefits of Restoring Magnesium Levels

• Improved Sleep Quality: Magnesium regulates melatonin and binds to GABA receptors to quiet the nervous system.
• Muscle Relaxation: Significant reduction in muscle cramps, "charley horses," and restless leg syndrome.
• Stress & Anxiety Reduction: It lowers cortisol and prevents the "fight or flight" system from being stuck in the "on" position.
• Heart Health: Helps maintain a steady heart rhythm and healthy blood pressure levels.
• Blood Sugar Regulation: Improves insulin sensitivity, helping the body manage glucose more effectively.
• Migraine Relief: Many sufferers find that consistent magnesium intake reduces the frequency and severity of headaches.

Further benefits:

Here are the additional benefits you might notice once your magnesium "tank" is full:

Structural & Bone Strength

• Bone Density: About 60% of your body's magnesium is stored in your bones. It stimulates the hormone calcitonin, which draws calcium out of the blood and soft tissues and puts it back into the bones.
• Vitamin D Activation: Magnesium is the required "key" to turn Vitamin D into its active form (25(OH)D). Without it, your Vitamin D supplements may just sit idle in your system.

Hormonal Harmony & PMS Relief

• Reduced Cramps: Just as it relaxes leg muscles, it relaxes the smooth muscle of the uterus, significantly reducing the intensity of period cramps.
• Mood & Bloating: It helps regulate dopamine and serotonin, which can curb "pre-period" irritability. It also acts as a mild natural diuretic to help with cyclic water retention and breast tenderness.

Physical Performance & Recovery

• Lactate Clearance: Magnesium helps move blood sugar into your muscles and dispose of lactate (lactic acid), which can build up during exercise and cause fatigue.
• Reduced DOMS: You may notice less "Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness" after a heavy lifting session or a long run.
• Protein Synthesis: It is essential for the ribosomes that create new proteins, meaning it's vital for repairing and building muscle tissue.

Cognitive Sharpness & Neuroprotection

• Synaptic Plasticity: Magnesium is crucial for the brain's ability to form new connections (plasticity), which is the foundation of learning and memory.
• Neuroprotection: It helps block "excitotoxins" - compounds that can overstimulate and damage brain cells. Many people report the lifting of "brain fog" once their levels are stabilized.

Respiratory Ease

• Open Airways: It helps the smooth muscles in the lungs relax, which can improve airflow. While not a replacement for medical treatment, many people with asthma or chronic coughs find that maintaining optimal magnesium levels leads to fewer "tight-chested" episodes.

DNA Integrity & Anti-Aging

• DNA Synthesis: It is required for the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
• Antioxidant Power: It is a necessary co-factor for the production of glutathione, often called the "master antioxidant," which protects your cells from the oxidative damage that leads to aging.

Magnesium acts as the body's essential "biological coolant," stabilizing cellular integrity by regulating calcium influx and powering nearly every metabolic process as a co-factor for Mg^2+-ATP. Despite its critical role, more than half of the American population remains chronically deficient, a silent crisis fueled by mineral-depleted industrial soil and the stripping of nutrients during food processing. Transitioning to a high-quality supplement like Magnesium Glycinate offers a superior path to replenishment because its chelated form is both highly bioavailable and gentle on the digestive system. Once levels are restored, the systemic "re-tuning" manifests as a profound shift in well-being, ranging from enhanced sleep quality and stress resilience to improved bone density, hormonal balance, and DNA repair, effectively moving the body from a state of hyper-excitable stress to one of optimized physiological stability.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6637)

Date: April 10, 2026 02:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Why Do Sugar and Vitamin C Compete for the Same "Doorway" in Your Body?

The relationship between sugar and the immune system is primarily centered on a concept called competitive inhibition. When you consume high amounts of sugar, it essentially "crowds out" the nutrients your immune cells need to function.

1. Why Sugar Suppresses the Immune System

• Phagocytic Inhibition: High levels of glucose in the bloodstream slow down these white blood cells. They become sluggish and less effective at identifying and destroying pathogens.
• Reduced Adhesiveness: Research suggests that high sugar levels reduce the "stickiness" of white blood cells, making it harder for them to attach to and exit blood vessels to reach the site of an infection.

2. Consumption Levels and Duration

3. Why Sugar Reduces Vitamin C Absorption

• Competitive Binding: Your white blood cells have a high concentration of GLUT-1 receptors because they require massive amounts of Vitamin C to function. However, these receptors have a higher "affinity" for glucose.
• The "Crowding" Effect: If your blood is flooded with glucose, the receptors will prioritize the sugar, leaving the Vitamin C "locked out" of the cell. This means that even if you have enough Vitamin C in your blood, it can't get into the cells where it's actually needed.

4. How Vitamin C Supports the Immune System

• The "Mop" Effect (Antioxidant): When white blood cells attack a virus, they release "oxidative bursts" - essentially a form of biological bleach—to kill the pathogen. This bleach can also damage the immune cell itself. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant (a "mop") that neutralizes the excess bleach, protecting the immune cell so it can keep fighting.
• Chemotaxis: It helps "guide" immune cells to the site of infection faster, acting like a chemical GPS.
• Production of Interferon: Vitamin C helps the body produce interferons, which are proteins that signal the rest of the immune system to prepare for a viral attack.
• Collagen Synthesis: It is vital for building strong skin and mucosal barriers, which are the body's first line of defense against entering pathogens.

How much vitamin c should one consume if a cold comes on to effectively boost immune function ?

1. The "Rescue" Dose (Symptom Onset)

• The "Day 1" Protocol: Some clinical studies have seen success with 4 to 8 grams (4,000-8,000 mg) on the very first day of symptoms.
• The Follow-up: After the first 24 hours, many protocols drop down to 2,000 mg daily until symptoms resolve.

2. The Golden Rule: Divided Doses

• Max Absorption: The body absorbs Vitamin C most efficiently in chunks of 500 mg or less.
• The Strategy: Instead of one big dose, take 500 mg every 2-3 hours. This keeps your blood levels saturated throughout the day rather than creating a single "spike and crash."

3. Finding Your "Bowel Tolerance"

• The Signal: You gradually increase your dose (e.g., 1,000 mg every hour) until you experience gas or loose stools.
• The "Dose": Once you hit that point, you back off slightly. This is theoretically your body's way of saying, "I'm full; I can't use any more than this right now."

?? Important Reality Checks

• The Sugar Trap: If you take your Vitamin C in the form of sugary gummies or with a big glass of orange juice, you're re-introducing the competitive inhibition problem. The glucose in the juice will compete with the supplement for those GLUT-1 "doorways." Take it with water.
• The Upper Limit (UL): The official "Tolerable Upper Intake Level" for adults is 2,000 mg per day. Going significantly over this for more than a few days can cause diarrhea, nausea, and—in susceptible individuals—increase the risk of kidney stones (since excess Vitamin C is excreted as oxalate).
• Quality Matters: Look for "buffered" Vitamin C (like magnesium or calcium ascorbate) if you have a sensitive stomach; it’s less acidic than straight ascorbic acid.

Sugar intake directly hinders immune function by slowing down phagocytosis, the process where white blood cells destroy pathogens, with just 75 to 100 grams of sugar reducing this activity by up to 50% for approximately five hours. This occurs because glucose and Vitamin C share a nearly identical molecular structure and compete for the same GLUT-1 receptors to enter cells; when blood sugar is high, glucose "crowds out" Vitamin C, preventing immune cells from utilizing the nutrient for essential tasks like antioxidant protection and interferon production. To effectively bolster the immune response at the onset of a cold, it is recommended to take a therapeutic loading dose of Vitamin C - roughly 4,000 to 8,000 mg in divided 500 mg increments throughout the first day - while strictly limiting sugar intake to ensure the Vitamin C can successfully navigate these cellular doorways.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6635)

Date: December 05, 2025 04:06 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: SCFAs Improve Mitochondria Function Throughout The Body

Yes, Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) generally improve mitochondrial function throughout the body. While they are produced in the gut, they enter circulation and act as "signal boosters" for mitochondria in distant organs like the brain, liver, and muscles.

Quick Summary: How SCFAs Help Mitochondria

• Fuel Source: They can directly enter the Krebs cycle (the engine inside mitochondria) to produce ATP energy.
• Biogenesis: They trigger the creation of new mitochondria (a process called biogenesis) by activating a master regulator gene called PGC-1a.
• Stress Shield: They reduce oxidative stress, protecting mitochondria from damage.

Specific Benefits by Body Part

1. Skeletal Muscle (Energy & Endurance)

• What happens: Muscles are the largest consumer of energy in the body. SCFAs (especially butyrate and acetate) activate the AMPK pathway - a fuel gauge that tells muscle cells to burn fat and sugar more efficiently.
• Result: This leads to increased mitochondrial density (more mitochondria per cell) and better oxidative metabolism, which improves muscle endurance and insulin sensitivity.

2. Liver (Detox & Metabolism)

• What happens: The liver is the first stop for SCFAs after they leave the gut. Propionate and butyrate have been shown to reduce mitochondrial dysfunction caused by high-fat diets or toxins.
• Result: They lower oxidative stress (ROS) and prevent hepatocyte apoptosis (liver cell death), helping to protect against fatty liver disease.

3. Brain (Neuroprotection)

• What happens: SCFAs can cross the blood-brain barrier. Once there, they support the mitochondria of microglia (the brain's immune cells).
• Result: By keeping microglial mitochondria healthy, SCFAs help prevent neuroinflammation. They also protect the blood-brain barrier's endothelial cells from mitochondrial damage, which preserves cognitive health.

4. Brown Adipose Tissue (Fat Burning)

• What happens: Unlike "white fat" which stores energy, brown fat burns it. SCFAs (particularly acetate) stimulate UCP1, a protein in brown fat mitochondria that turns calories directly into heat (thermogenesis).
• Result: This increases whole-body energy expenditure and helps regulate body weight.

Key Mechanisms

• Epigenetic Regulation (HDAC Inhibition): SCFAs (mainly butyrate) inhibit enzymes called HDACs. This "unlocks" DNA, allowing cells to read the instructions for building more mitochondria.
• Receptor Signaling (GPCRs): SCFAs bind to specific receptors (FFAR2/FFAR3) on the surface of cells, sending a chemical text message that tells the cell to ramp up energy production.

Does boosting Mitochondria boost overall body energy production and help people feel better?

Since mitochondria produce about 90% of the energy (ATP) your body uses, improving their function is like upgrading the engine in a car: you get more power, better fuel efficiency, and a smoother ride.

Here is the breakdown of how boosting mitochondria translates to "feeling better" physically and mentally.

1. The Physical Energy Boost (ATP Production)

• Less Fatigue: Dysfunctional mitochondria are a primary cause of fatigue. When they are "boosted," your cells can generate ATP faster than you burn it. This prevents that "heavy" feeling in your limbs and the mid-afternoon crash.
• Higher Stamina: With more healthy mitochondria, your muscles can rely on fat for fuel (oxidative phosphorylation) for longer periods before switching to sugar (glycolysis), which produces lactic acid and causes burnout. This means you can walk, work, or exercise longer without getting tired.

2. The Mental & Mood Boost (Neurotransmitters)

• "Brain Fog" Clearance: When brain neurons don't get enough ATP, they fire more slowly, leading to brain fog and poor focus. Boosting mitochondria sharpens cognition and memory.
• Mood Regulation: Mitochondria are required to synthesize key neurotransmitters like serotonin (happiness) and dopamine (motivation).
• Research links mitochondrial dysfunction to anxiety and depression; conversely, fixing mitochondrial health often stabilizes mood.
• Resilience to Stress: Healthy mitochondria help buffer calcium and regulate cortisol. When they are functioning well, you are physically better at handling stress without feeling "burnt out."

3. How to "Boost" Them (Actionable Science)

Connection to your previous question

Which specific supplements (like PQQ or CoQ10) have the strongest clinical evidence for triggering mitochondrial biogenesis?

Here are the top supplements with the strongest evidence for mitochondrial health, categorized by how they work.

1. The "Biogenesis" Trigger: PQQ (Pyrroloquinoline Quinone)

• The Evidence: Research indicates PQQ is up to 5,000 times more efficient at sustaining mitochondrial energy production than Vitamin C. A key study found that men taking 20mg of PQQ daily saw significant improvements in mitochondrial function and decreased inflammation (CRP) after just 6 weeks.
• Mechanism: It activates PGC-1a, the "master switch" gene that tells your cells to build more mitochondria from scratch.
• Best For: Long-term energy building and cognitive protection (preventing "brain fog").

2. The "Quality Control" Agent: Urolithin A

• The Evidence: Clinical trials (published in JAMA Network Open) have shown that Urolithin A supplementation significantly improved muscle endurance in older adults by improving mitochondrial health.
• Mechanism: It triggers Mitophagy. Over time, mitochondria get damaged and leak toxic byproducts. Urolithin A flags these broken mitochondria for destruction and recycling, ensuring only the healthy ones remain.
• Best For: Muscle endurance and healthy aging (slowing physical decline).

3. The "Fuel" Supplier: CoQ10 (Coenzyme Q10)

• The Evidence: Extensive clinical trials, particularly in heart failure patients, show that CoQ10 improves the ejection fraction of the heart (a high-energy organ) by improving mitochondrial efficiency.
• Mechanism: It acts as an electron carrier in the Electron Transport Chain (the assembly line inside the mitochondria that makes ATP). Without enough CoQ10, the assembly line jams, and energy production stops.
• Synergy Note: PQQ + CoQ10 is a famous "stack." PQQ builds more mitochondria, and CoQ10 ensures they have the fuel to run.
• Best For: Immediate physical energy, heart health, and recovery from exercise.

4. The "Signal" Booster: Nicotinamide Riboside (NR)

• The Evidence: A twin study showed that NR supplementation increased mitochondrial biogenesis in muscle tissue and improved gut microbiota composition.
• Mechanism: It raises levels of NAD+, a co-enzyme that activates Sirtuins. Sirtuins are proteins that protect DNA and regulate mitochondrial function, effectively "mimicking" the benefits of fasting or exercise.
• Best For: Metabolic health and systemic cellular repair.

Summary Table: What should you take?

Optimizing mitochondrial health is a systemic strategy that links gut health to overall vitality, largely driven by Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, which act as both fuel and signaling agents to enhance energy production in the brain, muscles, and liver. By stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis (the creation of new energy factories via the PGC-1a gene) and fueling the Electron Transport Chain, SCFAs - along with targeted supplements like PQQ, CoQ10, and Urolithin A - directly increase ATP output while simultaneously clearing out damaged cells through mitophagy. This biological upgrade results in tangible benefits, including sustained physical endurance, sharper cognitive focus, and stabilized mood, effectively turning the body’s cells into more efficient engines that produce more power with less oxidative "exhaust."

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6630)

Date: November 15, 2025 10:56 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Does Berberine Help Stimulate Intestinal Cells (L-cells) to Produce And Secrete More of Your Own Natural GLP-1?

Yes, scientific research indicates that berberine does help stimulate intestinal L-cells to produce and secrete more of your body's own natural GLP-1.

This isn't just a simple, single-action effect. Berberine appears to work through several different and complementary mechanisms to increase GLP-1 levels.

Here is a detailed explanation of how it works.

How Berberine Stimulates GLP-1 Secretion

1. Direct Stimulation via Bitter Taste Receptors2

• Berberine is Bitter: Berberine is a naturally bitter compound.
• Activation: When berberine comes into contact with the L-cells in your gut, it binds to and activates these specific bitter taste receptors (like TAS2R38).
• Signaling: This activation triggers an internal signaling cascade within the L-cell, which directly results in the production and secretion of GLP-1.

2. Indirect Stimulation via the Gut Microbiome

• Modulates Microbiota: Berberine helps promote the growth of beneficial bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as butyrate.
• SCFAs as Signals: These SCFAs then act as fuel and signaling molecules for your intestinal L-cells.
• Increased Secretion: When SCFAs bind to their own receptors on the L-cells, it provides another strong signal for those cells to produce and release GLP-1.

3. Protecting the L-Cells

• Reduces Oxidative Stress: It helps alleviate oxidative stress and inflammation within the gut lining
• Improves Cell Health: By protecting the L-cells from this damage and improving their mitochondrial function (their "powerhouses"), berberine helps restore their normal, healthy ability to secrete GLP-1 in response to food.

4. Promoting L-Cell Growth

Summary: What This Means

1. It directly tells L-cells to secrete GLP-1 (via bitter taste receptors).
2. It indirectly tells L-cells to secrete GLP-1 (by nourishing gut bacteria that create SCFAs).
3. It protects the L-cells from damage, ensuring they are healthy enough to do their job.
4. It may even help create more L-cells.

Disclaimer: While this information is based on scientific research, it is not medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, including berberine, to ensure it is appropriate for your individual health needs and to discuss correct dosing.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6626)

Date: November 05, 2025 11:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Akkermansia Muciniphila help the body fight leaky gut?

Yes, based on a significant body of research, Akkermansia muciniphila is strongly associated with helping the body combat "leaky gut" by strengthening the intestinal barrier.

"Leaky gut" is the common term for a medical condition known as increased intestinal permeability. This happens when the lining of your gut is damaged, allowing bacteria, toxins, and undigested food particles to "leak" from your intestines into your bloodstream, which can trigger inflammation and other health issues.

Akkermansia muciniphila (or A. muciniphila) is a beneficial bacterium that lives in the mucus layer of your intestines. It plays a direct and crucial role in keeping this gut barrier strong and healthy.

How Akkermansia Helps Fight Leaky Gut

1. Reinforces the Mucus Layer: This is its most unique function.
   • A. muciniphila feeds on mucin, the main component of the gut's protective mucus layer.
   • This "feeding" process acts as a signal, stimulating the specialized cells in your intestinal wall (goblet cells) to produce more mucin.
   • This continuous turnover thickens and strengthens the mucus barrier, creating a more robust defense against harmful substances.
2. Strengthens "Tight Junctions":
   • The cells of your intestinal lining are sealed together by proteins called "tight junctions." In a leaky gut, these junctions become loose.
   • A. muciniphila has been shown to increase the expression of these tight junction proteins, helping to "seal the leaks" and keep the intestinal barrier intact.
3. Produces Beneficial Compounds:
   • As A. muciniphila digests mucin, it produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), such as acetate.
   • These SCFAs serve as an energy source for other beneficial bacteria and for the cells lining your colon, helping to keep them healthy and functional.

The Bigger Picture

• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Metabolic syndrome

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6624)

Date: November 06, 2023 04:50 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Importance of Collagen for Your Health: Why You Should Care

The Importance of Collagen for Your Health: Why You Should Care

Have you ever heard about collagen? It might have been a buzzword in the beauty industry, but it's important to know that collagen is much more than just skin-deep. Collagen is actually a protein that plays a crucial role in providing structure, strength, and support to different parts of our bodies such as skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Lets explore the importance of collagen for your health, its different types and functions, the effects of collagen loss on the body, factors that affect collagen production, and how to boost collagen levels naturally.

Factors That Affect Collagen Production:

Collagen production declines naturally with aging, leading to visible signs of aging like wrinkles, sagging skin, and brittle nails. However, several lifestyle factors also contribute to collagen loss like smoking, consuming sugary foods, and excessive sun exposure. Medical conditions like scleroderma and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome also lead to reduced collagen production.

The Effects of Collagen Loss on the Body:

Collagen loss can have various detrimental effects on the body. One of the most visible effects is on the skin where collagen loss leads to wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, and dryness. Collagen loss also affects joints, resulting in pain and stiffness. Since collagen is crucial to maintaining bone structure, a decrease in collagen levels weakens the bones and muscles, causing osteoporosis. Collagen is important for the digestive tract lining, so when the body lacks sufficient collagen, people could experience digestive issues.

Lifestyle Habits Leading to Collagen Loss:

Several lifestyle habits exacerbate the natural decline in collagen production, thereby speeding up the aging process and negatively affecting overall health. First among these is smoking. The chemicals present in cigarettes damage collagen and elastin, causing premature skin aging with characteristic wrinkles and sagging. Not only does smoking impact the skin, but it also affects collagen-rich organs and tissues, leading to various health problems.

Next is the consumption of excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates. A high-sugar diet interferes with collagen's ability to repair itself, leading to inflammation and collagen cross-linking that results in skin aging and joint discomfort. Refined carbohydrates spike blood sugar levels, encouraging the same damaging process.

Last but not least, ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, particularly from the sun, can also lead to significant collagen loss. UV light increases collagen breakdown by activating enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases that degrade collagen and elastin. This exposure results in photoaging of the skin, characterized by deep wrinkles, leathery texture, and pigmentation changes. Therefore, it's crucial to protect your skin from the sun by wearing SPF every day, even on cloudy days.

How to Boost Collagen Levels Naturally:

Fortunately, several natural ways can help boost collagen levels in your body. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, zinc, copper, and iron is key to boosting collagen levels. Vitamin C is vital in the production of collagen, which makes it an essential nutrient for the body. Excessive sun exposure and smoking lead to the accumulation of free radicals that damage collagen, so avoiding these is key. In addition, the topical use of skincare products like sunscreen and moisturizers protects and nourishes collagen and helps maintain healthy skin. Exercise such as weight training and yoga can help stimulate collagen synthesis, ensuring youthful-looking skin, healthy joints, and strong bones.

Common types of collagen!

• Type I Collagen: This is the most abundant type of collagen in the body. It's primarily responsible for providing structure to the skin, tendons, organs, and the bone matrix. It also plays a crucial role in wound healing.
• Type II Collagen: This type of collagen is primarily found in cartilage and serves as the main component of our joints. It's important for maintaining healthy joint movement and reducing the effects of joint-related aging.
• Type III Collagen: Often found alongside Type I, Type III collagen supports the structure of muscles, organs, and arteries. It's also a key component in the body's natural healing processes.
• Type IV Collagen: This type forms the basis of the cell basement membrane and plays a critical role in maintaining cell and tissue health by aiding filtration.
• Type V Collagen: This type of collagen is found in the surfaces of cells, hair, and placenta. It's important for various cellular processes, including the growth and development of cells and tissues.

Collagen is an essential protein that is vital for overall health and well-being. It provides support and structure to different body parts, ensuring their optimum functionality. The decline in collagen production is an inevitable part of aging, but several natural ways can help boost its levels. Maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding habits that damage collagen, and practicing regular exercise can help maintain healthy collagen levels. It's crucial to remember that relying solely on supplements may not necessarily boost collagen levels, so it's best to consult your healthcare provider before taking them. So, go ahead and adopt healthy habits to maintain healthy levels of this crucial protein. Your body will thank you for it!

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6588)

Date: August 05, 2023 09:10 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Benefits of Vitamin D-3 In The Body!

As we live in modern times, most people spend their days indoors or in offices under artificial light. This fact can help explain why many individuals are deficient in vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for bone health, immune function, and overall body wellness. If you're looking for a way to improve your vitamin D levels, Solaray Vitamin D-3 supplement can be a suitable solution. Lets dive into the benefits of this product and how it can help you maintain your health.

Improved Bone Health

Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium. Calcium is a critical element that our bodies require for strong bones. Thus, deficiency in vitamin D can lead to weak bones and fragile bone structures. Solaray brand Vitamin D-3 2000IU in Lemon flavor can supplement our bodies with enough vitamin D to enable sufficient calcium absorption and, in turn, strong and healthy bones & teeth.

Enhances Immune System

Our immune system is the first line of defense in protecting our bodies against diseases and infections. Vitamin D plays a pivotal role in the proper functioning of our immune system. Vitamin D boosts our white blood cells' activity, which helps combat infections and bacteria that may be detrimental to our system. Thus, supplementing with Solaray Vitamin D-3 2000IU can help improve your immune system's health and functionality.

Increases Dopamine/Serotonin Production

Dopamine/Serotonin are neurotransmitters that promotes positive thoughts, feelings of well-being, and happiness. Research has shown that maintaining optimal serotonin levels is essential for mental health and well-being. A Vitamin D-3 supplement can help increase serotonin production, leading to an improvement in mood and emotional regulation.

Boosts Mood and Mental Well-being

Vitamin D-3 plays a crucial role in mood regulation and warding off depression. It essentially works in the brain's mood centers and impacts the production of serotonin—a key hormone that stabilizes our mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. Deficiency of Vitamin D-3 has often been linked with mood disorders, feeling of sadness, depression, and anxiety. By ensuring an adequate intake of Vitamin D-3, such as through supplements like Solaray Vitamin D-3 2000IU, you can maintain optimal serotonin levels, thereby improving your overall mood and promoting mental well-being. So, if you're feeling down more often than not, it might be a good idea to get your vitamin D levels checked and consider supplementation or more sunshine exposure.

Prevents Chronic Diseases

Deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to the development of chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and heart disease. Supplementing with Vitamin D-3 can reduce the risks of developing these diseases and improve your overall health.

Easy-to-take and Delicious Flavor

Solaray offers Vitamin D-3 2000IU in a Lemon flavor comes in a lozenge (under the tongue) form, making it easy and pleasant to consume. Hence, incorporating this supplement in your daily routine can be effortless and convenient.

In Summary: Supplementing with Solaray brand Vitamin D-3 can help boost your immune system, promote strong-bone-teeth development, enhance your mood, and prevent the development of chronic diseases. Additionally, the lemon flavor and lozenge form make it an enjoyable and easy-to-take supplement. Take care of your body and your health by incorporating a Vitamin D-3 supplement into your daily routine and feel the difference it can make in your life!

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6583)

Date: October 13, 2022 03:47 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Love Your Liver With Milk Thistle

You may have heard of milk thistle before, but you might not be familiar with all of the ways that this traditional herbal remedy can be used. Studies have shown that milk thistle extract can help to maintain healthy liver function and support the body's normal detoxification processes.* In addition, milk thistle has also been traditionally used to support digestive health. Keep reading to learn more about the many benefits of milk thistle.

The liver is a vital organ that plays an important role in detoxification and metabolism. Milk thistle has long been used as a natural way to support liver health. The active compound in milk thistle, silymarin, is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage.* Clinical studies have shown that milk thistle may help to maintain healthy liver function and support the body's natural detoxification processes.*

In addition to its liver-supporting properties, milk thistle has also been traditionally used to support digestive health. Silymarin can help to reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and promote a healthy gut environment.* One clinical study showed that milk thistle extract was effective in relieving symptoms of functional dyspepsia, such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, and belching.*

Milk Thistle is a Traditional Herbal Remedy with Many Benefits

As you can see, milk thistle is a traditional herbal remedy with many potential benefits. If you are looking for a natural way to support liver function or digestive health, milk thistle may be worth trying. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before taking this or any other dietary supplement if you are pregnant, nursing or have a medical condition or take medication as directed on the label.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6504)

Date: September 07, 2022 03:09 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Increase circulation naturally with L-arginine and L-citrulline

How to Increase Circulation and Nitric Oxide Production with L-arginine and L-citrulline

Do you want to improve your circulation and nitric oxide production? If so, you may want to consider taking L-arginine and L-citrulline together. These two nutrients can work together to help increase NO levels in the body, leading to better blood flow and overall health. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of these two nutrients and how they can help improve your health!

Why is circulation so important?

Circulation is one of the most important functions of the human body. It is responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells, and for removing waste products. Without adequate circulation, cells would quickly become damaged or die. The circulatory system consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The heart pumps blood through the vessels, which carry it to different parts of the body. The blood contains oxygen and nutrients that are essential for cell health. Waste products are also carried away in the blood so that they can be eliminated from the body. Because circulation is so important, it is essential to keep the heart healthy. Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to promote good circulation by keeping the heart muscle strong and functional. Additionally, consume foods and supplements that can boost Nitric Oxide (NO) in the blood stream, avoiding tobacco use and managing stress levels can also help to keep the circulatory system functioning properly.

How does Nitric Oxide (NO) improve circulation?

Nitric oxide is a gas that is produced naturally by the body. In addition to being an important component of cell communication, nitric oxide also has several other important functions, including regulating blood pressure and improving circulation. When it comes to circulation, nitric oxide works by relaxing the smooth muscle cells in the walls of blood vessels. This allows the vessels to widen, which increases blood flow and lowers blood pressure. In addition, nitric oxide helps to prevent platelets from sticking together, which reduces the risk of clot formation. As a result, nitric oxide plays a vital role in maintaining healthy circulation.

What are L-arginine and L-citrulline and what do they do for the body?

L-arginine and L-citrulline are amino acids that are important for the body in many ways. L-arginine helps the body to make nitric oxide, which is a molecule that helps to relax blood vessels. This can help to improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure. L-citrulline, on the other hand, helps to remove ammonia from the body. Ammonia is a waste product that can build up in the blood and cause fatigue. Citrulline also helps to improve blood flow by increasing the production of nitric oxide. In addition, citrulline has been shown to boost levels of energy and stamina. These amino acids are important for many functions in the body and can help to improve overall health.

What are the benefits of improved circulation and NO production?

There are many benefits to improved circulation and NO production. Improved circulation can help more nutrients get to the cells, which helps the body to function better. In addition, NO production can help to improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and protect against free radical damage. As a result, improving circulation and NO production can have a positive impact on overall health.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6434)

Date: April 29, 2022 11:33 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can the Liver Be Repaired Once It Is Damaged?

https://vitamins.vitanetonline.com/wp-content/uploads/liver-2934612_1920.png The liver is a vital organ in the body that performs many essential functions. It can be damaged by a variety of factors, including disease, alcohol abuse, and exposure to toxic chemicals. Once the liver is damaged, can it be repaired? In this article, we will explore the answer to that question. We will also discuss the various ways that the liver can be damaged and how those damages can be repaired.

What is the liver and what does it do?

The liver is a large, multi-functional organ that plays a vital role in the body. Its primary function is to filter the blood and remove toxins, but it also helps to regulate metabolism, store nutrients, and produce bile. The liver is divided into two main lobes, the right lobe and the left lobe. The right lobe is slightly larger than the left lobe and includes the quadrate lobe and caudate lobe. The left lobe contains the left lateral section and the medial section. The hepatic veins drain blood from the liver and pass it through the inferior vena cava to be returned to the heart. The hepatic arteries supply oxygenated blood to the liver tissue, while the portal vein carries nutrient-rich blood from the digestive organs. The bile ducts transport bile produced by the liver cells to the gallbladder, where it is stored until needed for digestion.

The liver is a hardworking organ that performs many crucial functions in the body. By keeping it healthy, we can help to ensure that our entire body remains healthy and functioning properly.

What can damage the liver and how does that damage occur?

The liver is a vital organ that performs many important functions, such as filtering toxins from the blood and producing bile to help digest fats. However, the liver can be damaged by a number of different agents, including viruses, alcohol, and certain medications. Viruses such as hepatitis C and hepatitis B can cause inflammation of the liver, which can lead to scarring and eventually to liver failure. Alcohol abuse is also a major cause of liver damage, as it can lead to fatty deposits, inflammation, and scarring. In addition, certain drugs (such as acetaminophen) can cause toxic damage to the liver cells. If the liver is not functioning properly, it can result in a build-up of toxins in the blood, which can lead to serious health problems.

Can the liver be repaired once it is damaged, and if so, how is that done?

The liver is a amazing organ. It is responsible for so many important functions in the body, from filtering toxins to producing bile to breaking down fats. When it is damaged, it can often repair itself. This is because the liver has a high regenerative capacity. hepatocytes, which are the main type of liver cell, can divide and grow back quickly when necessary. In fact, as long as about 25% of the liver remains healthy, it can regenerate itself completely over the course of a few weeks. There are a number of ways to damage the liver, such as through alcohol abuse or viral infections, but fortunately there are also ways to help it repair itself. Eating a healthy diet, getting enough exercise, and avoiding toxins, take liver supporting supplements like milk thistle and NAC can all support liver health and regeneration.

How can people prevent their livers from being damaged in the first place?

The liver is a vital organ that plays an important role in metabolism. However, the liver can also be easily damaged by alcohol, drugs, prescriptions, and environmental toxins, which are in the foods we eat. To help prevent liver damage, it is important to avoid excess alcohol consumption or avoid it all together, take medication as directed and if you are on medications that cause liver damage to discuss alternatives that do not harm the liver, and eat a healthy diet along with taking liver supporting supplements. Additionally, it is important to get regular exercise, as this helps to keep the liver healthy and functioning properly. By taking these steps, people can help to prevent liver damage and keep their organs healthy.

Are there any lifestyle changes or supplements that can help improve liver function even if it has been damaged already?

Liver damage is a serious concern for many people, as it can lead to a number of health problems. While there is no guaranteed way to reverse liver damage, there are some lifestyle changes and supplements that may help improve liver function. One potential change is to limit alcohol consumption, as alcohol is known to be damaging to the liver, mixing alchol and drugs can enhance the progress of liver damage. Additionally, eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help improve overall liver function. There are also a number of herbal supplements that are thought to be beneficial for the liver, such as milk thistle and dandelion root. However, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, as some may interact with other medications.

What are the possible consequences of not repairing a damaged liver?

Liver damage can have serious consequences if left untreated. Depending on the cause, there may be a variety of negative effects that result from an injured liver. For example, if the damage is due to excessive alcohol consumption, then scarring and inflammation of the liver tissue can interfere with its ability to filter toxins out of the blood. This can lead to a host of potentially dangerous health problems, including nausea, chronic fatigue, jaundice, and cirrhosis. You must address the cause before change for the good can happen. In addition, unresolved inflammation can increase one's risk of developing more serious conditions such as cancer or heart disease. To prevent these possible consequences, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after suffering from liver damage. This will allow doctors to properly diagnose the issue and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Addressing the cause is always preferable over simply treating symptoms alone. Ultimately, taking action now can help you protect your health in the future.

How can people find out if their livers need repair and where they should go for help if that is the case?

When it comes to liver health, there are a number of ways to find out if your liver needs some repairs. One method is to get tested for elevated liver enzymes, which are indicative of problems with the organ. You can also watch out for certain symptoms, such as fatigue, bloating or skin discoloration. If you notice any of these markers, you may want to consult with your doctor or a specialist in liver disease, who can help determine the best course of action. Depending on the underlying cause of your liver problem, treatment options may include changes to your diet and exercise habits, medications or even surgery in extreme cases. Whatever route you choose, it is essential that you address any issues with your liver as soon as possible in order to protect your overall wellbeing.

Generally, symptoms only show when liver function has dropped significantly.

Liver damage can often go undetected until it has reached a advanced stage. This is because the liver has an incredible capacity for regeneration and can continue to function even when up to 75% of it has been damaged. As a result, symptoms of liver disease often only become apparent when the organ has been severely compromised. By that point, the damage may be irreversible and serious complications may have developed. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the early signs of liver damage so that treatment can be started as soon as possible. These include fatigue, weight loss, abdominal pain, and yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Fortunately, Supplements like Milk thistle and NAC may help the body assist the liver in its repair.

The liver is a hardworking organ that is constantly exposed to toxins. As a result, it is susceptible to damage. Fortunately, supplements like milk thistle and NAC may help the body assist the liver in its repair. Milk thistle contains silymarin, a compound that helps to protect the liver from damage. NAC is an amino acid that helps to remove toxins from the liver. NAC also helps to replenish glutathione, a substance that plays a key role in liver detoxification. Together, these supplements can help to keep the liver healthy and functioning properly.

Whether you are looking for preventative measures to protect the liver or have an existing issue, it can never hurt to take either milk thistle, NAC, or both to support healthy liver function.

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Date: April 26, 2019 02:10 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cranberries improve oral health, study concludes

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Date: March 29, 2019 01:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Here's what research shows about the mental health benefits ofginger

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Date: March 28, 2018 09:17 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hibiscus extracts can be used to provide natural food coloring WITH health benefits

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Date: January 07, 2018 03:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Inflammation And Its Negative Effect On Our Health

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Date: January 01, 2018 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 5 Reasons Why You Need To Include Beetroots In Your Diet, Today

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Date: December 29, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cognitive decline may be slowed by leafy greens

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Date: December 22, 2017 03:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Tanzania: Here's Why Vitamin D Matters for Good Health

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Date: August 26, 2017 09:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Eating almonds could increase good cholesterol

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Date: August 15, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Almonds may help boost cholesterol clean-up crew

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Date: July 18, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cleanse, Detox or Challenge – Is one right for you?

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Date: July 13, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Scientists stunned to learn that gut bacteria seem to have control over your moods and brain function

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Date: June 12, 2017 11:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are You Taking Enough Water With Your Vitamins?

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Date: June 12, 2017 09:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cannabis prevents brain aging

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Date: May 07, 2017 09:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Probiotic Microorganisms: A Closer Look

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Date: March 20, 2017 04:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Walnuts can help improve sperm quality —Scientists

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Date: March 19, 2017 01:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Lack of sleep linked to behavioral problems in kids

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Date: March 16, 2017 06:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Amazing Recovery After Sick Girl Drinks Raw Cannabis (Marijuana) Juice.

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Date: February 22, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are the Unique Phytocannabinoids Found in Cannabis Actually Essential Nutrients? The Answer ...

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Date: January 31, 2017 04:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Simple Clever Ways To Clear Clogged Arteries Research

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Date: January 19, 2017 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Positive Data for Cannabis Chewing Gum to be Used in Upcoming IBS Trial

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Date: January 13, 2017 02:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Earth Science Tech Announces the Development of 3 New Advanced Formulated Cannabis CBD ...

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Date: December 21, 2016 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Running may boost your brain wiring

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Date: December 14, 2016 04:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Fermented Tea Making People Feel Enlightened Because of ... Alcohol?

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Date: November 09, 2016 01:32 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: You Can Repair the Adrenal Glands with the Right Diet

Bored with trips to the doctor or naturopath and the costs involved as you attempt to restore the functionality of your adrenal glands? If yes, then embrace an adrenal-supportive diet plan. Apart from reducing the costs you incur to treat adrenal fatigue; you will enjoy several other benefits that come with eating right. Basically you will have to take nutritious whole foods, eat at the right time, and avoid foods that you have intolerances to. Apart from the above, you will have to reduce stressing your mind and body, eliminate toxins and embrace positive thinking at all times. The details below will give you a proper guide towards your recovery.

The Adrenal Fatigue Diet

Since the problem is already here, you have to start by removing toxins and hard-to-digest foods from your diet (embrace a Paleo or Primal diet). This means you have to eliminate legumes, grains, vegetable oils, caffeine, microwaved and processed foods, and refined sugar.

After that, take foods that help replenish the energy of your adrenal glands. They include avocado, olives, Cruciferous vegetables, coconut, Fatty fish, turkey and chicken, seeds (like flax, chia and pumpkin), seaweed and kelp, Himalayan or Celtic sea salt, nuts (like almonds and walnuts), and food fats. These foods have low sugar levels, they are nutrient-dense, and contain healthy fiber and fat.

Taking the Required Adrenal Fatigue Recovery Supplements

Remember that if these supplements are taken in their whole-food form, the symptoms of your adrenal insufficiency could greatly be improved. The supplements to take include Holy basil, Vitamin B5, fish oil (DHA/EPA), Ashwagandha, Magnesium, Vitamin C, Zinc, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin B12. Where your adrenal fatigue is severe, get an experienced doctor to prescribe the correct levels of Pregnenolone, DHEA, Progesterone, B6, Licorice Extract, and L-tyrosine

Once you follow the above and embrace good lifestyle changes to promote your recovery you will now have a solution to the full recovery of your adrenal glands. Good lifestyle in this case, means you sleep regularly or about 8-10 hours a night, exercise, rest whenever you feel tired, reduce relational and work stress, laugh and have time to relax. Also, always ensure that you are eating regularly. You can now live a happy and fulfilling life with your adrenal glands working perfectly.

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Date: November 08, 2016 09:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Superaging: why some 80 year olds have the memory capacity of 20 year olds

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Date: November 02, 2016 05:54 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Functional fitness training: Is it right for you?

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Date: November 02, 2016 07:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Sleep loss tied to changes of the gut microbiota in humans

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Date: January 12, 2016 06:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Probiotics for Oral Health

Bacteria usually makes people think of organisms that cause disease. The truth is that there are countless types of bacteria and while some of them do cause disease, there are millions of bacteria that are beneficial to the body. For optimum health, the body should consist of about 85% healthy bacteria.

These healthy bacteria help with;

• Protection against colonization of unhealthy bacteria such as Candida.
• Nutrient and vitamin absorption.
• Protection from allergies.

Sourcing Healthy Bacteria

The information that the human body is dependent on good bacteria for healthy functionality only recently came out and with it came a plethora of food products designed to promote the growth of healthy bacteria such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG.

Food that are good for the production of healthy bacteria in the body are called probiotics. Fermented foods such as yogurt, miso and sauerkraut are great probiotics however these food have to be unpasteurized as the pasteurization process kills all of the bacteria in food, both good and bad.

While most bacteria is present inside people's guts, there are some that occur both in the intestinal tract and the mouth. Streptococcus salivarius is a major member of the microbes that make up the healthy bacteria inside of a person's mouth.

The Colonization of S. Salivarius in the Mouth

Oral Streptococci are one of the first bacteria to colonize the mouths of newborn humans. For bacteria to colonize the mouth, it must first avoid the body's natural defenses against colonization from foreign microbes and resist the forces of saliva. To resist these forces, streptococci have developed adhesives that interact with the exposed areas of the mouth to keep them securely fastened to the area that they wish to colonize.

There are two main types of surfaces in the mouth. These are the hard and non-shedding surfaces of the teeth, and soft tissues whose surfaces have cells that are constantly being replaced such as the tongue and cheeks. S. mutans and S. Sangunins have tropisms that enable them to stick to the surfaces of the teeth while S. Salivarius has adapted tropisms that enable it to adhere onto the soft tissues.

All of these areas of the mouth are constantly coated with saliva. Saliva provides a variety of molecules that are ideal for streptococcal bacteria to interact with and adhere to. The thin films of saliva within the mouth vary in thickness and chemical composition at different points. Therefore different locations in the mouth consist of saliva that has more or less favorable receptors to the adherance properties of streptococci. For example, streptococci located on chips in teeth exhibit varied properties in their ability to bind to salivary proteins in those locations.

Streptococcus and Healthy Mouths

Streptococci's process of colonization makes it difficult for pathogenic bacteria to stick to the host. With the emergence of the knowledge that bacteria in the mouth promotes health, new strains of S. Salivarius such as K12 and K18 have been developed to help fight oral health problems that people deal with every day. These probiotics are designed as mouth washes that a person gargles for direct application. Once there, these probiotics create bacteriocin-like inhibitory substances called Salivaricin A and Salivaricin B that have the ability to fight infection.

Maladies Treated by S. Salivarius

Tonsil Stones: Tonsil stones are produced by the unchecked accumulation of bacteria that produce sulfur. The debris created by this bacteria then accumulates in the tonsils. Oral probiotics break down these unwanted globs.

Bad Breath: When the body sleeps the brain sends signals to the mouth to reduce its production of saliva. The reduction of saliva turns the mouth into an environment that is more favorable to the growth of bacteria that thrives in dry and anaerobic conditions. The proteins produced by S. Salivarius K12 inhibit the growth of this bad-breathe causing bacteria.

Ear infections: The misinformed believe that ear infections start from outside the ear. The truth is that they are caused by bacteria that originates inside the throat and then travels up to the ear canal through the Eustachian tube. Beneficial bacteria such as that found in probiotics prevent this from happening by forming a protective bio-film in the throat that prevents harmful bacteria from progressing.

Bacterial Transplants

When it was discovered that bacteria is essential for healthy gut activity, the doctor who made the discovery suggested that if a person is suffering from certain maladies of the stomach or gut or whose healthy gut bacteria has been eviscerated by steroids or antibiotics, said person can get a transplant of bacteria from a healthy donor.

This idea was also applied to a man who came into his doctor complaining of an ear infection. The doctor simply took a sample of ear wax from the person's healthy ear, transferred it into the infected ear and the infection passed.

References

//www.naturalnews.com/025520_bacteria_food_healthy.html

//www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-harold-katz/probiotics-oral-health_b_870307.html

//www.therabreath.com/what-are-probiotics.html

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Date: January 21, 2015 05:19 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Combat Depression With Fish Oil

What is a depression?

Depression can occur at any age and is a disorder of affective state, which leads to a state of sadness or hopelessness for a period. Depression is thought to be disease of the century as more and more researchers are trying to find an effective remedy to combat this disease. Lately, several studies are trying to prove that fish oil can affect a person’s mood and is an effective remedy for preventing and treating depression.

About fish oils

According to a Japanese study published in September in the journal Pediatrics, fish oil especially that obtained from sardines and salmon helps male teens feel less depressed.

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are found mainly in fish oil. Because these nutrients play an important role in brain function, many researchers wanted to find out if a higher consumption of EPA and DHA leads to a decrease in the risk of depression. The results showed that an increased consumption of EPA and DHA influences positively the mental state and mood of adolescents.

According to Japanese researchers, fish oil has not the same effect in the case of adolescent girls. The different effect of fish oil in boys and girls is difficult to explain, a possible cause being that women show a genetic risk of depression significantly higher than men do.

Norwegian researchers found that a dose of 15 ml of fish oil administered daily might decrease by 30% the risk of developing depression. The study involved 22,000 people aged over 40 who provided information about their eating habits and health care. The study results revealed that people who rarely or never ate fish oil showed more probability of suffering from depression due to stress or anxiety."The possible protective effect may be associated with the content of omega-3 fatty acids from fish", say the researchers.

Source of Omega 3 fatty acid

Omega 3 fatty acids improve the functionality of the brain in children, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke and prevent cancer. This fatty acid are found in fish such as trout, salmon and mackerel, in nuts, linseed oil and rapeseed oil. Fish oil is the best source of omega 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Since our body is unable to synthesize EPA and DHA, in order to prevent depression, is necessary to supplement our diet with supplements rich in these acids. Experts recommend a daily intake of 0.5 grams of omega-3- the equivalent of four meals of fish consumed over a week.

In the UK, about a fifth of population is affected at some point by depression and antidepressants prescription has reached record numbers.

Recently, doctors have put on the list of antidepressants, the fish oil. Their argument is that the human brain is almost entirely made from fat - about 60%, especially DHA and phospholipids. Fish oil has in its composition the precious DHA and for this reason, many doctors recommend it as an antidepressant. The arguments of doctors are strengthened by studies, which show that people who consume omega 3 fatty acids are more optimistic and cheerful.

1. //telemar.md/10-beneficii-ale-uleiului-de-peste/
2. //www.ulei-de-krill.net/uleiul-krilloil-este-ideal-pentru-combaterea-depresiei/
3. //www.mytex.ro/sanatate/uleiul-de-peste-combate-depresia_263288.php
4. //www.stiri.md/ro/article/470721/uleiul-de-pete-combate-depresia-i-ajut-organismul-s-slbeasc/

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Date: January 30, 2014 05:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Essential Oils Is Flax Seed

Flax Seed as an Essential Oil

A rich source of recuperating mixes, flax seed has been grown for more than 7000 years. Initially grown in Europe, the plant's tan seeds were customarily used to plan salves for aggravated skin and mending slurries for stoppage. Rich in essential oils, or Efas, flax seed oil is utilized to anticipate and treat coronary illness and to assuage a mixture of incendiary issue and hormone-related issues, incorporating fruitlessness.

Flax Seed History

A source of filament for cloth fabric since aged times, the slim flax plant likewise brags a long history as a mending herb. Initially grown in Europe, the plant's tan seeds were customarily used to plan salves for aroused skin and mending slurries for clogging. Today, flax seeds (additionally called linseeds) are best known for the helpful oil that is inferred by pressing them. Rich in essential greasy acids, or Efas, flax seed oil has earned a robust notoriety for treating a reach of afflictions, from coronary illness to lupus.

Benefits of Flax Seed Oil

The essential oils and greasy acids in flaxseed oil are one of its key mending parts. Efas are especially profitable in light of the fact that the form needs them to capacity fittingly, yet can't produce them on its own. Essential greasy acids work all around the form to secure cell layers, keeping them effective at conceding solid substances while excepting harming ones.

One of the Efas in flax seed oil, alpha-linolenic harsh corrosive, is reputed to be an omega-3 greasy harsh corrosive. Like the omega-3s found in fish, it seems to diminish the danger of coronary illness and various different illnesses.

Flax Seed Oil is an Amazing Source of Omega 3:

Just 1 teaspoon holds around the range of 2.5 grams, identical to more than double the sum most individuals get past their eating methodologies. Flax seeds additionally hold omega-6 fattening acids as linoleic harsh corrosive; omega-6s are the same solid fats found in vegetable oils.

Flax seed oil just holds these alpha-linolenic harsh corrosive (Omega 3 oils), and not the strand or lignan segments. Along these lines, flax seed oil gives the Omega 3 profits, for example, lipid-bringing down lands, not the purgative or against growth lands.

Entire flax seeds (not the concentrated oil) are a rich source of lignans (phytoestrogens), substances that seem to emphatically influence hormone-related issues. Lignans might likewise be functional in anticipating certain growths and battling particular microscopic organisms, parasites, and infections, incorporating those that cause mouth blisters and shingles.

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Date: January 13, 2014 04:19 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Difference Between D-2 And D-3 and benefits of Vitamin D

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is one of the most essential vitamins for body and best thing about this Vitamin is that your body can easily make with the help of sunlight and food, but you need to get out in the sunlight for that. Talking about the health benefit of this vitamin it can help your body to absorb the calcium from food and it can help you to get stronger bone. It also helps the cell to cell communication that allows your body to have a better immunity system. In addition to this can also help you in several other problems including reduced heart attack risk, protection from arthritis and lot more.

Types of Vitamin D

Talking more about it, five different type of Vitamin D are available there out of them vitamin D2 and Vitamin D3 are the most essential D vitamins for body. Out of these two vitamins Vitamin D2 is also known as ergocalciferol because only invertebrate animals, fungus and animals can make it with the help of sunlight. Many scientists also believe that Vitamin D2 can act as a sun protector as well for many organisms and it can protect them from harmful UV rays of sunlight.

At the same time Vitamin D3 is the vitamin that your body can make by itself using sunlight and your food substances. However, it is very important that your body need to get exposure of sunlight and exposure of UV should be higher than UV 3 for synthesizing of Vitamin D.

Since, now a day’s it is very difficult to stay in sunlight due to work requirement and when people go out, they prefer to use some UV protection that can reduce the chances for Vitamin D synthesizing. Therefore, it is suggested that you should take it as a dietary supplement and you should consume it on a daily basis you can get a healthy and strong bone structure along with a fully functional cellular system so you can have a great immunity system as well

References:

1. //ods.od.nih.gov
2. //www.medicalnewstoday.com

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Date: January 06, 2014 01:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Difference between Vitamin B-12 Cobalamine

Vitamin B-12 occurs in many formations.

The different formations of vitamin B-12, based on the functional group,is called cobalamine. The naturally occuring form in the human body is the dibencozide while the most common supplemented forms being the cyanocobalamine and methylcobalamine.

Differences between cyanocobalamine and methylcobalamine:

1. Cyanocobalamine has the presence cyanide ligand on the cobalamine and it is very stable and has a longer shelf live.Methylcobalamine, on the other hand, is an active cobalamine and has methyl ligand present in it.

2. Cyanocobalamine is converted into methylcobalamine in the body. The glutathione present in the human body removes the cyanide ligand and replaces it with methyl group. Cyanocobalamine is not recommended for persons who smoke as cyano group fails to detach in persons who intake tobacco. And hence the intake of cyanocobalamine can be fatal for smokers. It is also not recommended for those having liver failure since the glutathioneis formed in liver and hence if there is no glutathione the cyanide ligand cannot be detached and can pose threat to the body.4. At 1mcg dose cyanocobalamine is absorbed at 49.2% while methylcobalamine at 44.4%5. At 5 mcg dose cyanocobalamine is absorbed at 20.4% while methylcobalamine at 18.8%6. At 25 mcg cyanocobalamine is absorbed at 5.6% and methylcobalamine at 6.1% This indicates that cyanocobalamine is absorbed in the body better than methylcobalamine.The difference in the absorption can be attributed to the mass and the molecular structure of cyanocobalamine.Cyanocobalamine is cheaper than methylcobalamine and it has prolonged shelf life compared to other cobalamine forms. It appears as crystals synthesis and is red in color. Although the food rich in vitamin B-12 is enough for the body to meet the daily requirements, deficiency of this vitamin leads to disturbance in the sleep pattern, feeling of tingling in the body parts, numbness, etc

Reference:

1. Comparison of vitamin B-12 forms by Michael Mooney/SuperNutrition October 2007

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Date: December 23, 2013 02:56 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The role played by iodine in weight management

What is Iodine

Iodine is a mineral that is found in trace amounts in the body. Its effects in weight loss are, however, significant because it supports the thyroid gland’s function in accelerating metabolism. The following is a look at how iodine is important for weight management.

Studies on Iodine

Studies have conclusively proven that insufficient intake of iodine in the body has resulted to the enlargement of the thyroid gland or a drop in its functional capabilities. These result to weight gain even where there is a reduction in the consumption of calories.

A properly functioning thyroid gland is essential because it eliminates chances of body fat accumulation and water retention, which contribute to weight gain. An underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism can, however, be corrected by daily intake of iodine by eating foods rich in the mineral or supplementation.

Natural sources of iodine

Include tea, sweet potatoes, broccoli, cabbage, onions, iodized salt, peanuts, mustard, pine nuts, bladderwrack, kelp and various sea vegetables. Adults are required to consume at least 150 micrograms of iodine on a daily basis to ensure that their thyroid glands functioning optimally.

How Iodine Works

Iodine works by increasing the production of T4, which is a hormone that adjusts the body’s rate of burning fat and metabolism. It also increases mental and physical activities, which play an important role in weight loss.

Precaution

It is important to exercise care when increasing the intake of iodine because too much of it is also detrimental. Consulting a physician is advisable to ensure that the mineral is increased in moderation to ensure safety.

In conclusion

The amount of iodine in ones diet has a significant effect on weight loss. It is, therefore, necessary to ensure that the recommended daily amount of the mineral is consumed to ensure that the body is functioning optimally. Signs of iodine deficiency include fatigue, poor memory, impotence, low sex drive, irritability and problems in ones complexion, hair, teeth, and nails.

References:

1. //www.naturalnews.com/008902.html
2. //diet.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Iodine_Weight_Loss
3. //www.askdrgarland.com/?p=1226
4. //www.livestrong.com/article/292129-iodine-drops-for-weight-loss/
5. //www.ask.com/question/do-iodine-supplements-help-you-lose-weight
6. //www.trimnutrition.com/blog/the-nutritional-importance-of-iodine
7. //theweightlossinstitute.com/mgold/iodine.php
8. //voices.yahoo.com/iodine-weight-loss-5579691.html
9. //www.3fatchicks.com

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Date: November 13, 2013 02:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Astaxanthin Protects The Eye And More!

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid that is commonly found in the marine environment. It is naturally found in salmon, krill, trout, crayfish, shrimp, crustaceans and yeast. It is the chemical that is responsible for the red color in cooked shellfish and salmon meat. The algae Haematoccus has the richest natural source of astaxanthin.

Astaxanthin can also be produced synthetically, but due to the synthetic product consisting of different steriosmers it is not preferred to be used in some cases.

Unlike beta-carotene it has two more oxygenated groups on each of its ring structure, these additional functional groups make it a highly potent antioxidant and give it a configuration that is more polar than that of other carotenoids. Vitamin E has been known as the strongest antioxidant both in topical use in cosmetics and in internal use, but research has shown that astaxanthin has a greater antioxidant strength than Vitamin E. For example in the quenching of singlet oxygen it has an antioxidant strength five hundred times stronger than Vitamin E.

Unlike many other antioxidants it has the ability of crossing the blood-brain barrier and enter into the eyes, brain and central nervous system (CNS). Most diseases of the CNS and eye are caused by increased generation of free radicals or by a decrease in the ability to remove free radicals from the body. Some of the diseases that are caused by problems with inflammation and oxidation include Glaucoma, Cataracts, and Huntington’s disease. These can be prevented by taking astaxanthin.

It has anti-inflammatory properties that are related to its strong antioxidants properties. It suppresses some of the inflammatory mediators such as, prostaglandin E-2 (PGE-2), tumor necrosis factor –alpha (TNF-a), and nitric oxide. Unlike other anti-inflammatory drugs like acetaminophen that can damage the liver and aspirin that may cause stomach bleeding, astaxanthin doesn’t have any side effects.

In people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome it has the ability of reducing pain. Studies have shown that it is able to reduce pain in rheumatoid arthritis by 40% after 8 weeks of continuous use.

It prevents Ultra Violet induces oxidative stress of the skin and prevents the photo aging of the skin. It prevents UV induced formation of wrinkles and collagen degradation in the skin. It may be applied on the skin or taken orally.

In people participating in sports it eliminates the soreness of joints after exercise, and reduces the pain caused by inflammation. This enables athletes to train harder and as a result increase their endurance, skill, and strength. This is through its ant-inflammatory and ant-oxidant effects in the mitochondria (energy producing organelle).

It strengthens the immune system, research by scientists has shown that it causes increase in production of T cells, stimulates the proliferation of lymphocytes, amplify the cytotoxicity of natural killer cells, decrease damage of DNA, and increases significantly delayed type hypersensitivity syndrome.

It prevents heart disease and reduces the risk of people already suffering from heart disease form getting a stroke or heart attack. It improves the blood lipid profiles by increasing HDL (high density lipoprotein) and decreasing LDL (low density lipoprotein).

The liver main function of the liver and kidney is the detoxification and removal of harmful substances in the body. These activities lead to the formation of free radicals. Astaxanthin being a strong antioxidant helps by destroying these free radicals hence it eliminates their oxidative effects.

As a result of its immune benefits Astaxanthin also has anti-tumor properties and as a result it prevents the development of cancer. Its prevention of cancer is also caused by its antioxidant properties and by it regulating gene expression.

References

1. //www.peakhealthadvocate.com/2826/astaxanthin-benefits-include-eye-heart-health/

2. //articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2013/02/10/cysewki-discloses-astaxanthin-benefits.aspx

3. //www.lef.org/magazine/mag2013/apr2013_Astaxanthin-Provides-Broad-Spectrum-Protection_01.htm

4. //www.vitguide.com/astaxanthin-benefits/

5. //www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/astaxanthin-supercharged-health-benefits

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Date: May 22, 2013 10:43 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Pancreatic Enzymes Help Reduce Pancreatic Stress?

  Pancreatic enzymes are crucial for the purpose of breaking down fats, carbohydrates and proteins. A healthy pancreas will produce about 8 cups of pancreatic juice daily. This is released into the duodenum helping neutralize any acid. This potion of the stomach is at the entrance of the small intestines. The lack of these fluids could cause a myriad of problems depending on the functions that are carries out.

The question however is; can pancreatic enzymes help reduce pancreatic stress?

One of the best ways to answer this is to find out what these enzymes are and do exactly.

Lipase is a pancreatic enzyme that breaks down fats. The lack of this enzyme causes a shortage of fat soluble vitamins and diarrhea evident by fatty stools.

Protease breaks down proteins in the body. It is also crucial in keeping the system clear of protozoa and yeast among many other parasites. The lack of the same will cause a rise on toxicity in the stomach due to faulty digestion. The individual will also be at risk due to infections.

Amylase will break down carbohydrates and is commonly found in the saliva. The lack of the same will cause diarrhea due to the presence of starch that is undigested in the colon.

This is common in patients that have developed pancreatic cancer. The lack of pancreatic juice in the body will cause pancreatic stress. This calls for doctors to find a way to help induce the functionality of this juice into the body. This is the reason why pancreatic enzymes are used to help along with the breaking down of these body substances.

This partly answers the question, can pancreatic enzymes help increase pancreatic stress?

Some other effects that could come with the lack of these enzymes include cystic fibrosis, pancreatitis, duodenal tumors and Whipple procedure. Some of the symptoms of these conditions brought by the lack of the enzymes include cramps, gas, indigestion, weight loss and diarrhea.

These enzymes given by doctors may also be given along some acid reducing medication. These enzymes should be taken carefully to ensure that they work optimally. 

Added enzymes will ease pancreatic stress by balancing the digestive system. The body in turn will not think it needs more enzymes and reduce its demands on the pancreas.

Some of the things to keep in mind when using these are;

1. Ensure that you take the enzymes with every meal for digestion to take place optimally.
   

2. Start with a small dose and increase depending in the situation. You may need to alter this depending on the progressiveness of the situation.
   
3. The enzymes should be taken right before meals. If you are taking a number of the, take some in between the meal, never take them after the meals as they will not function then.
   
4. Ensure that you take the capsules and the pills with water or any other liquids. They should not be ingested in the mouth unless under special circumstance and orders from the doctor.
   

The most common side effect of these enzymes is constipation. They are however the best way to deal with indigestion due to the lack of the pancreatic fluid in the body.  Have you had your pancreatin today to boost digestion and eliminate food allergies?

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Date: December 19, 2012 12:08 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Curamin Combats Inflammation Pain

Fact: You can manage pain with natural remedies!

Study has revealed the sad fact that four out of every five Americans perceive that pain is a natural inevitable part associated with old age. Athletes on the other hand believe that severe pain is essential for physical fitness. Many people again, think that there are certain disorders that ignite pain and you can do less or nothing to relieve the ache.

In fact, 28% of America's population believes that there is no solution that can eliminate their personal pain concerns. In the contrary, Curamin by EuroPharma is a highly effective herbal remedy that combines four powerful and clinically proven ingredients, into a single award-winning product that offers an ultimate level of pain relief.

Here is a look into how Curamin relieves inflammation pain.

#Curamin's Ingredients The secret behind Curamin's power is blending the best of the best. These ingredients are well known for their fast action in relieving pain associated with inflammation especially in the bones and joints. Here are the four main ingredients used in the formulation of this unprecedented pain reliever.

*DLPA (DL-phenylalanine) This is a double part amino acid (D phenylalanine & L phenylalanine) that impedes the breakdown of the enkephalin compound, also known as the positive mood enhancer. In addition to that, DLPA converts the L phenylalanine into tyrosine so as to enhance the secretion of two brain chemicals; norepinephrine and dopamine, which ease pain and dissolve inflammation.

*Boswellia Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense is an anti-inflammatory herb used in the Curamin formula. The boswellic acids prevent the hyperactivity of an enzyme called lipoxygenase, which is often associated with inflammation. This way, it effectively combats inflammation pain.

*Nattokinase This natural ingredient is extracted for a Japanese fermented cheese known as natto, hence its name. The production of this beneficial enzyme can be attributed to a certain bacterium called Bacillus natto. Its benefits in relieving pain come through its action of breaking down clots, promoting the circulation of blood. Thickened blood can intensify pain, and by promoting blood circulation, all other Curamin ingredients are well distributed to every single part of the body.

*Curcumin This powerful, natural compound derived from turmeric requires no detailed introduction. It promotes the body's natural ability to combat inflammation and also contains anti-oxidant properties that are very useful in preventing tissue damage. Its functionality in pain relieving is behind its effectiveness in cutting off pathways that lead to inflammation. Numerous studies have also depicted its ability to promote cognitive-enhancing as well as anti-depressant benefits by igniting neuro-protective brain functions and moderating pain neuro-transmitters.

#How Curamin Relieves Pain

This proprietary formula combats inflammation pain by promoting the body's defense mechanism. In addition to that, it features curcumin BCM-95 which has an enhanced oral bioavailability and is highly soluble, thus availing a full spectrum or curcuminoids that fight pain in a flash. Additionally, the amino acids and Boswellia used in the formulation of Curamin helps the body to absorb the pain alienating ingredients quickly, which earns Curamin its well deserved fast-acting characteristic.

Curcumin BCM-95 has extended blood retention; one among the many attributes that makes Curamin stronger than other plain curcumin products. We cannot forget to mention the fact that Curamin is associated to no known side effects. It combats all types of pain ranging from occasional back pain to chronic pain caused by arthritis. So, next time pain becomes a problem, grab a bottle of Curamin and make your life a whole lot easier.

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Date: October 09, 2012 01:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: reishi mushroom

reishi mushroom A Therapeutic Plant

The actual Reishi mushroom, utilized for many year like a therapeutic plant and has its own healing and therapeutic attributes. Utilized mostly within the china and associated with Chinese medicine as well as The japanese medicine, there are lots of purposes of this product.

A few of the more vital features include:

• increasing your defense functionality
• lowering your tension while assisting to improve rest
• battling fatigue in your body whilst boosting power and energy amounts
• as well as assisting to protect against persistent exhaustion.

Breathing and inflammation

It is also good for individuals with breathing difficulties as well as bronchitis, because of the anti-inflammatory attributes from the Reishi mushroom. Additionally , this may pass as a good anti-coagulant, to assist slim bloodstream. Battling allergies can also be among the features from the Reishi mushroom.

Manage Cholesterol Issues

Numerous experts additionally turn to the actual Reishi mushroom with regard to assisting to lower cholesterol levels amounts, lower blood pressure quickly, that help boost the elegance and energy of pores and skin. As the research still have to be carried out, a few believe the actual Reishi mushroom to become a good anti-cancer real estate agent, too.

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Date: August 18, 2012 08:22 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Chaste Berry Help With PMS?

Chaste Berry

Chaste berry is a kind of berry that grows in the Mediterranean region, and has many useful medical applications. Chaste berry is essentially a herb, belongs to the Vitex species, and is characterized by purple colored flowers that grow on it. It is grown widely in many parts of Africa. The plant grows up to 5 meters in height. Chaste berry has been in the mainstream media ever since studies showed that it helped women a lot in dealing with pre menstrual syndrome (PMS). While is has many other uses, both medical and non-medical, this particular functionality of chaste berry has been extensively noticed, as every woman in the world suffers from PMS quite a few times in their lives.

How is chaste berry useful with PMS?

Studies have shown by clinically proving that chaste berry helps women deal with PMS in many ways. A few of them are listed below:

Chaste berry helps keep the pituitary glands in check by acting upon prolactin secretion. Prolactin is a secretion of the pituitary gland that is associated with the breasts becoming tender in women during PMS. Thus by keeping it in check, one of the biggest causes of stress that women go through during PMS is reduced.

Chaste berry consumed in the tablet form has been proven to significantly reduce many of the PMS symptoms and effects that women go through. It has been concluded that most of the effects that chaste berry has with regards to PMS are sub-results of the bigger result, namely reduced prolactin secretion.

Unlike other clinically produced medicine, chaste berry is nature's own medicine to help cure the PMS blues, and it does a great job. As a matter of fact, the exact procedure that happens inside the body after consuming chaste berry is not comprehensible enough to the general audience, but the results speak for themselves.

Chaste berry extracts are available as tablets, and the effective dosage is one 20 mg tablet, up to three times a day. Consult your doctor for the exact prescription; this is just the general estimate. If you choose to take the drops, around forty drops per day will do.

What other uses does chaste berry have?

Chaste berry has many other uses, apart from belong with PMS.

Some of them are:

Chaste berry has been proven to help in prevention and control of prostate cancer. Anti-tumor behavior of chaste berry on the cancerous cells has been observed, thus establishing the fact that chaste berry helps in prostate cancer.

Chaste berry has also successfully helped in breast pain, which is medically called mastalgia. The effects are well researched and documented.

With relation to controlling the prolactin secretion as stated above, chaste berry ultimately helps prevent and control Hyperprolactinaemia, which is essentially the presence of the hormone in large quantities in the blood. This can sometimes lead to problems in breast milk production, and breast feeding.

The best part about chaste berry is that it has absolutely no documented side effects. The only piece of advice associated with chaste berry is that it should not be consumed during pregnancy, as might cause some complications later on. All said and done, chaste berry does help with PMS, no doubt about that.

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Date: March 08, 2012 11:48 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Makes Ubiquinol The Best Form Of COQ10?

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.

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Date: October 12, 2011 01:33 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Colostrum Help Promote Healthy Immune Function?

Colostrum Overview

Colostrum, also known as first milk and yes that is not a typo error, I did mean first and not fresh, is a form of milk produced by the mammary glands of mammals in late pregnancy and as my wife put it is the first milk that comes out of your breasts and as advised by our doctor was the most nutrient rich of all the breast milk she will ever produce. A woman’s breast is the one responsible for producing colostrums and start during pregnancy and continues on through the first days of breastfeeding. This special milk is thick and sticky and is more like yellow in color instead of white of dirty white color as most milk. It also is low in fat but high in carbohydrates, protein and antibodies to help build a foundation of good health for the newborn. So in other words it is the first milk that the mother produces and the first milk that the baby should ingest and must ingest because of the benefits it can bring and this makes calling it the “First Milk” all the more appropriate.

Most of the mammals in the planet will generate colostrum just before giving birth. We all have heard it before, “breast milk is still best for babies”, and this holds that statement to be even more true. The milk from the mom during pregnancy given that the mom is also in good health will be filled with nutrients that will be passed on to the offspring. It is nutrients in its purest form as untainted and unprocessed food will be given to build on the blank slate that the newborn can be considered to be since it still does not have a well built defense against viruses and bacteria which brings me back to the question above.

Promoting Healthy Immune Function With Colostrum

Colostrum contains a whole lot of antibodies and will most definitely help protect the newborn against diseases and will also even aid in building a strong foundation of good health all throughout his life. It also will not be a problem for the newborn’s tiny underdeveloped digestive system as it is designed to be easily digested. It has laxative effects which will help alleviate the movement of waste and any excess impurities in the newborn’s system which in turn can help prevent jaundice which is a very common health issue for newborns. In so many ways it is perfectly designed for your new born it is often referred to as the perfect first food for the baby as only nature can design.

It has nutrients tailored fit for the newborn and has very high concentration of immune factors that it works almost like a vaccine and to add to that it is even 100% safe, tried and tested for thousands of years. The good news is that there are supplemental colostrums available in the market today to mimic those effects to the new born, many studies have shown that colostrums immune factors are four times richer and has shown to be capable of correcting a dysfunctional immune system in adults.

Supplement forms of colostrums are from bovine sources. These sources still offer health benefits to the immune system and digestive tract. You too should take colostrums even as an adult to help boost your health.

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Date: October 01, 2011 11:13 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Are Some Interesting Calcium Facts?

Do you know what contains your teeth and bones?

Have you ever wondered what makes your muscles move, your body respond to stimulus and your heart beat?

If yes, then you might need to explore some of these wonders of the body. As we know for a fact, the body is composed of thousand of cells that need substances such as nutrients for its biological processes and survival. One of these nutrients is the mineral called Calcium which is one of the main chemical substances that make those mentioned above possible.

Calcium is considered to be the most in terms of quantity among all the other minerals inside the body. It is needed for the contraction of muscles so that movement will be achievable. It also influences the constriction and dilation of blood vessels thus helping in the regulation of blood pressure. Aside from its effect on the muscles and blood vessels, calcium also affects the nerves and plays a significant role in the transmission of nerve impulses so that appropriate response to external stimulus will be possible.

Moreover, as an ion, calcium is also required in the process of intracellular signaling and is an important chemical for hormone secretion. Physiologically, the calcium level in the blood to support these functions is only less than 1 % of the total calcium inside the body. Almost 99 % of the body’s calcium is stored in the bones and teeth for structural and functional support, as well as calcium reservoir. If the blood level of calcium decreases, the bones will be demineralized and calcium will be released into the blood stream, thus, normalizing serum calcium level.

Even if the body has reached its maximum growth, the bones will continually undertake remodeling. This process involves regular resorption and deposition of calcium minerals into the new bone. Bone remodeling varies from person to person depending on the individual’s age. Bone mineralization or formation exceeds bone demineralization during the growing years of puberty and adolescence.

On the other hand, during early and middle adulthood bone deposition and resorption are usually balanced. Furthermore, women on their post menopausal age exceed bone mineralization or formation. Their bodies constantly extract calcium from bones to compensate blood levels of calcium. This is one of the reasons why post menopausal women have a higher risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, recommended dosage for calcium is higher for women at 50 years and older and men at 70 years and older.

Another interesting fact about Calcium is that it requires Vitamin D which is also a nutrient that can be naturally produced by the body and can also be supplied by the diet. On the other hand, foods which can lessen the absorption rate of calcium are the foods which are high in oxalic acid and phytic acid. Examples of foods rich in oxalic acid are spinach, sweet potatoes and beans, while those that contains high phytic acid are wheat bran (not wheat products), seeds, nuts and soy. Caffeine, alcoholic beverages, phosphorus, sodium and proteins can decrease the absorption of calcium, thus increasing elimination through the urine, feces and sweat.

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Date: September 16, 2011 03:50 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Tea Tree Oil Reduce Scarring?

Overview

Scarring can be traumatic for any person and yet it may be a source of pride for others, in fact many native cultures in the world that is still left untouched by the modern world still has scarring as part of decorating their bodies. However we also need to look at it in a different view, it is a fact of life that we do not live in a native world, we need to adhere to common beliefs in terms of what beauty is and let’s face it, being full of scars is not something that many people look for and deem as beautiful.

How does it happen?

The formation of scars is a natural process. It simply is our body healing itself after injury. The main difference though is that when the skin is the part of the body that is injured it leaves a mark that we can see and I say that because like all healing processes in the body their always is a small mark left and the problem never really gets completely repaired unless the injury happens while you are very young or if you have amazing regenerative gifts. There are a lot of factors that could influence scars and of course depth and size of the injury are the ones that play a major role in shaping the scars characteristics.

Types of Scars

First and most common are Keloid scars. This is a result of a very aggressive healing process by the body and in some cases it even can affect mobility as it extends beyond the normal wound or injury. Second would be Hypertrophic scars. These types of scars are a little similar to keloid but the main difference is that it does not extend out of the injury zone but in terms of look and texture it is very similar to keloid. The third are contracture scars. This is commonly caused by the burning of the skin. It also has the ability to impair your mobility as this has a characteristic of going deeper into your muscles and nerves to impede its functionality. Lastly you have the scars that result from acne and which is appropriately named as acne scars.

Tea Tree Oil and Scars

This oil has been known to have wondrous effects to the health with even just one drop. Studies have shown that the use of Tea Tree Oil or also known as meleleuca alternifolia on scars is one of the most effective ways to aid in the treatment of scars. Its strong cell regenerative properties are what makes tea tree oil important and potent in healing scars. It also could help in preventing other skin problems and acne.

Another reason why it is so effective is it has a natural antiseptic effect for skin infections and problems and it is able to penetrate the epidermis to do its healing from within which adds to its potency. Plus, the best thing about it is that, it is mild on the skin, it does all this without any side effects that other skin treatments has like drying the skin or causing minor irritations.

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Date: August 02, 2011 02:02 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Prickly Pear Leaf Help with Blood Sugar Control?

Prickly pear leaf is obtained from a group of cacti known for their positive effect on blood sugar. It is an important source of food and medication for Native Americans since prehistory. It contains unique compounds that display potent antioxidant activity. Studies have shown that its phytochemical content displays potential in the management of blood sugar and the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Also known as nopales in its place of origin, all plant species referred to as prickly pear belong to the genus Opuntia. This genus comprises more than 200 species, but only a few are noted for their culinary uses. In Mexico and most of Latin America, it is consumed as a vegetable in general. The juice extracted from the prickly pear leaf is utilized in different niches of many industries. In food and drug industries, it is highly valued for its alkaloids and polyphenols that exhibit bioactive properties.

Many health problems recorded in the past few decades have been linked to uncontrolled blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates present in the human diet are broken down into simple sugars. In particular, glucose refers to the sugar that enters the systemic circulation. Glucose takes on a central role at the cellular level. It fuels the physiological functions of all cells and tissues, including the brain and the heart. That being said, diets high in simple sugars have been tied to elevated blood sugar.

Researchers and medical professionals have noted several factors that lead to metabolic disorders. Genetic abnormalities are something we don’t have control of. On the other hand, lifestyle factors are quite the opposite. It has been reported that sedentary lifestyle and food choices play a major part in the development of illnesses related to glucose metabolism. Experts are convinced that some foods are detrimental to health, but there are sources of nutrition that help maintain healthy glucose levels.

Prickly pear leaf belongs to the group of foods that are good for blood sugar. Glycemic index measures how carbohydrates present in our diet influence blood sugar concentration. Simple sugars are always considered unhealthy forms of carbohydrates in that all of them possess a high glycemic index, which means glucose is released into the bloodstream at a very rapid rate. Foods that are easily digested to simple sugars, such as white bread and sweetened beverages, affect blood sugar in the same manner. Organic compounds that occur naturally in prickly pear leaf have a twofold effect. First, it helps lower the glycemic index of carbohydrates in our diet, and thus promotes a gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream. Second, it improves the hormone activity of insulin and fights its functional decline that results in insulin resistance, a common medical condition that precedes type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Grab some prickly pear leaf and take control of your life.

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Date: May 25, 2011 12:46 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Tart Cherry Work To Fight gout and Inflammation?

Health Benefits Of Tart Cherry

Tart cherry may be the newest addition to the growing list of superfruits. This species of sour cherries have been cultivated for centuries, but only recently has research started to uncover its medicinal potential. It is believed to contain a larger number of phenolics and anthocyanins than its sweet counterparts. Plus, it has been linked to more studies in the past few years.

Prunus cerasus are species of cherries native to Europe and parts of Asia. Tart cherries have less than 10 varieties cultivated around the world, but they have steadily grown in popularity. There are two major cultivars: the bright red amarelle and the darker morello. Among the popular cultivars are Montmorency, Balaton, and Griotte de Kleparow.

Counteracts Pain Chemicals

Anthocyanins have long been associated with the alleviation of joint pains and related symptoms, and tart cherry are among the best sources of these organic compounds. Anthocyanins are actually pigments that give fruits such as apples and cherries their red coloration. As a general rule, fullness of color is directly proportional to the anthocyanin content of fruits. Cancer research on anthocyanins is considered unrivaled due to the availability and reliability of documented data. The anthocyanins found in tart cherries counteract the inflammatory mediators that initiate tumorigenesis, which are the same chemicals responsible for sensitizing joints to pain.

Promotes Purine Metabolism

Gout ensues when purine metabolites in the form of uric acid crystallizes and in the process triggers local inflammatory responses. High levels of uric acid in the blood may form into urate crystals anywhere, but often precipitate in the joints of the lower extremities. The big toe is particularly vulnerable to gout, but it may also manifest in the form of joint pains and kidney stones. Unfortunately, human beings lack a functional enzyme that breaks down uric acid and re-balance uric acid levels. This is when tart cherries come to the rescue. They contain phytochemicals that regulate purine metabolites and promote the excretion of uric acid.

Accelerates Muscle Recovery

It is a common belief in the nutraceutical industry that tart cherries are one of the best sources of antioxidants. Free radicals are natural by-products of cellular respiration, and they become so abundant during workout that the muscles begin to feel sore. It takes a longer time to recover from radical damage when the antioxidant defense of cells is compromised. The antioxidant profile of tart cherries enables the skeletal muscles to recuperate fast after intense physical exertion.

Improves Sleep Disorders

Tart cherries have been commercially touted to cure insomnia. While this remains to be proven, tart cherries are in fact excellent sources of melatonin, the primary hormone responsible for inducing sleep in response to dark environments. Sleep disorders may result from a variety of factors, including stress, and sudden lifestyle changes may interfere with the chemical reactions that govern our biological clock. Tart cherries provide a ready source of melatonin, which normalizes circadian rhythm and enables the brain to relax.

Fight back against gout and inflammation pain with Tart Cherry.

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Date: May 02, 2011 01:58 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Zinc Boost the Immune System and What Else Does this Mineral Do

Zinc And Good Health!

Zinc is considered a transition metal in general, and as such one of the most abundant transition metals in living organisms, including human beings. It plays a central role in the molecular structure of proteins, which is indispensable in catalytic activities of over a hundred enzymes. These proteins belong to all enzyme classes and have far-reaching effects on the human body, notably in the immune system.

In the past few decades, the scientific community has unearthed countless chemical reactions that take place inside the human body. A number of these reactions necessitate the presence of zinc. While zinc is considered toxic in high amounts, it is classified as an essential trace mineral, which means it has a daily value. A deficiency in zinc has serious effects on growth and development as implicated in the life cycle of cells.

Stabilizes Cellular Structures

Zinc is a trace mineral that is quite pervasive at the cellular level as all cells have zinc demands. This dietary element keeps cells in prime condition and maintains the health of cell organelles. For one, zinc is required to stabilize ions that functions as interaction modules responsible for binding DNA, RNA, and other particles found within cells. The absence of zinc in cells will cripple these activities.

The complete absence of this trace mineral is improbable, but low levels of elemental zinc in the body have been observed to have serious effects on cellular health. The capacity of cells to contain radical damage depends on the availability of zinc. Depleting levels of zinc result in an impaired antioxidant defense and greater susceptibility to free radicals and other reactive oxygen species.

Induces Enzymatic Reactions

Enzymes are proteins that play functional roles in the metabolism of bioactive compounds. They are categorized into many classes, depending on their catalytic functions. These functions are vital as they are one of the mechanisms in the employ of the body to sustain homeostasis. Some classes are involved in immune responses in the prevention of disease and the alleviation of chronic disorders.

All classes of enzymes are affected by the metabolism of zinc one way or another, with over a hundred requiring the direct involvement of zinc to induce catalysis. Zinc is of special note in a chemical reaction called hydroxylation, a process that helps cleanse the body of toxins. With hydroxylation, zinc participates in the conversion of lipid-soluble substrates into water-soluble products ready for excretion.

Modulates Immune Responses

The human body utilizes zinc in many different metabolic pathways that influence the processes needed for prompt immune responses. In the case of common infections such as colds and flu, zinc curtails severity of symptoms and raises immune responses to optimum levels. More importantly, healthy levels of zinc enable the body to take on preventative measures against diseases.

Remember even though zinc is an important mineral, to much can cause problems as well. Do not exceed 150mgs daily for extended periods of time to maintain safe levels of zinc. I suggest 15mg to 75mg daily.

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Date: February 16, 2011 02:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Did You Know without Magnesium, You Could not Survive?

Magnesium and your Health

Magnesium 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 Calcium

Over 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?

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Date: February 15, 2011 04:16 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Did You Know Lecithin is More than a Brain Food

Lecithin, first discovered as the yellow substance in egg yolk, is now associated with a wide array of health benefits. It is in fact made up of a number of naturally occurring substances that all play an important role in promoting overall health at the right amounts. Today lecithin is made available as over-the-counter supplements and utilized for many different purposes in the food industry.

Lowers Cholesterol

Lecithin has been proven to reduce cholesterol serum levels. For one, it has a direct effect on the digestion of triglycerides and cholesterol from the foods we eat, blocking the pathway that breaks down fats into smaller particles and their consequent absorption by intestinal walls. Also, lecithin has been observed to attract free fatty acids in the bloodstream and move them away from arterial walls. More importantly, it inhibits the release of bad cholesterol and instead raises good cholesterol levels.

Induces Weight Loss

There are dietary supplements that make use of lecithin to assist weight loss. Since the amount of lecithin present in our diet contributes to the ability of the intestinal walls to break down fats, notably cholesterol, it practically flushes away unwanted calories. Lecithin is a part of a class of compounds called lipids, and, as a lipid, it is readily utilized by the cells to burn fats and power cellular functions.

Supplies Energy

Phosphatidylcholine, a major constituent of lecithin, is in the employ of every cell in the body as a form of protection and in cellular communication. It is one of the compounds that make up the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. Unfortunately, our systems use up more lecithin as a dynamic source of energy than what we supply our body, and this explains why we become more susceptible to stress.

Protects the Liver

Lecithin has always shown to be one of the compounds that promote liver health, and has been in use against certain diseases of the liver such as cirrhosis. This compound is responsible for speeding up the metabolism of lipids in the liver, and produce them only when needed, thereby removing the hazards associated with the buildup of fatty tissues that interferes with the functions of the liver.

Helps during Pregnancy

Choline is one of the most important compounds during pregnancy. It is in itself an essential nutrient with established daily value, being required to support healthy body functions, and lecithin is its best known precursor. Intake of lecithin before getting pregnant is recommendable as choline must be produced at sufficient amounts prior to conception to ensure healthy fetal development.

Enhances Memory

Lecithin, being a precursor of choline, is involved in improving brain function. There are neuronal processes that rely entirely on choline, whose absence in the nervous system results in decreased activity of these processes. In addition, it has long been postulated that the functional decline tied to aging is due to the depleting levels of choline in the body. Hence, it is prudent to replenish our choline reserves by eating foods rich in lecithin.

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Date: February 10, 2011 12:31 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can N-Acetyl Cysteine Boost Liver Health And Function?

N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) And The Liver

N-Acetyl Cysteine or NAC is an antidote for poisonous effects of paracetamol overdose. It targets the cells in the liver, raising their capacity to deal with harmful metabolites. There are a number of researches well underway that scrutinizes a variety of medical conditions for which this compound could be of use. It is a known precursor of antioxidants and in itself a scavenger of peroxides and free radicals.

Hepatocytes are the cells that take on most of the functions of the liver and account for more than 70 per cent of the liver’s total mass. These cells are responsible for the presystematic metabolism of drugs, also known as the first-pass effect, rendering most drugs innocuous before they are released into the bloodstream. The total amounts of bioactive substances that are distributed to the rest of the body are also largely regulated by hepatocytes, notably carbohydrates. In addition, they are involved in the biosynthesis of protein, cholesterol, phospholipids, and bile salts as well as the functional reserves for protein.

Hepatocytes and Toxins

Certain drugs produce toxins when broken down by hepatocytes. A classic example is the metabolism of ethanol into acetaldehyde, which is a toxic compound, a probable carcinogen, and an air pollutant emitted by combustion of cars and tobacco smoking. While hepatocytes are known for their detoxifying responses to toxic substances entering the body, the metabolism of toxins actually takes up a great deal of time, resulting in certain toxins getting released into the bloodstream prior to first-pass effect.

That being said, continued exposure to toxins wears down hepatocytes, and high concentrations of what we refer to as poisons is certain to bring damage to the liver. This is what happens during overdose of paracetamol, or acetaminophen. In an effort to metabolized excessive amounts of the drug, the liver cells produce by-products that are essentially poisons, which under normal circumstances can be contained well.

NAC and Glutathione Production

The major antioxidant synthesized by the human body called glutathione comes to the liver’s defense when toxic by-products are produced. Hepatocytes in particular are so dependent on glutathione in the quenching of toxins that it has been observed that any challenge to the manufacture of this endogenous antioxidant will ultimately result in liver failure.

Glutathione is released by hepatocytes in large amounts especially during the metabolism of alcohol and drugs, but during overdose the ravaging activities of ethanol or drug metabolites overwhelm the detoxifying effects of antioxidant reserves in the body. Simply put, the defense mechanisms in the employ of the body have limits. NAC resolves this problem.

The presence of NAC in the body augments the liver’s ability to produce the needed amounts of glutathione to effectively counter the harmful properties of invasive substances. In fact, the liver completely recuperates in a matter of weeks even after life-threatening conditions given that NAC is introduced in the human body in time to avoid subsequent damages to other vital organs. Indeed its application has proven to save lives in fatal cases of paracetamol poisoning.

N-Acetyl Cysteine is available at your local or internet vitamin store in capsule or tablet forms. Always choose name brands like Source Naturals to ensure quality and purity of the product you buy for better liver health.

Have you had your NAC today?

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Date: February 09, 2011 01:25 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How can I Tell if I am Magnesium Deficient?

Magnesium The Essential Mineral

Magnesium is a dietary mineral that has established nutritional values in most countries. The presence of magnesium inside the human body involves many different chemical reactions, assisting more than 300 enzymes in their functional roles. That’s why we need to meet the daily recommended allowances for this dietary element, which has been calculated by the scientific community to supply the body with amounts adequate to support body functions.

An Essential Mineral

Not all enzymes are capable of producing the effects that they are programmed for on their own, and enzymes identified to rely on the presence of magnesium can be traced in almost all metabolic pathways. Molecules that comprise the structural units of RNA and DNA are extensively used as a source of energy of all cells, such as adenosine triphosphate or ATP. When enzymes utilize ATP for energy, they require another molecule that secures their binding to ATP, which is magnesium. In addition, ATP being the main source of energy that powers the functional roles of cells more often than not necessitates that it be bound to a magnesium ion to be fully activated.

Absorption Problems

Magnesium is ubiquitous in nature, and green leafy vegetables are ideal sources of this dietary element as well as nuts, wheat, seafood, and meat. In spite of that, it has been reported that in the US alone more than 60 per cent of the population does not meet the recommended daily intake for magnesium. The availability of magnesium in our diet does not ensure absorption of this essential mineral, and a significant fraction is in fact excreted along with other waste products in the urine or feces. Interestingly, diet high in protein or fat actually interferes with the absorption of magnesium.

Magnesium Deficiency

A general feeling of malaise must not be taken lightly, for it is key indicator of magnesium deficiency. Magnesium is indispensable at the cellular level, and insufficient amounts of this element will certainly affect the way you feel, bringing about the perception of fatigue. If you feel weak all the time for no known reason, then it is recommendable to visit your doctor and find out if you have an alarming case of magnesium deficiency.

Keep in mind that high concentrations of protein and fat in the foods that you eat contribute to malabsorption of magnesium, and subsequently malnutrition. Certain medical conditions are known to deplete your reserves of elemental magnesium present in your body, notably diabetes mellitus. Drugs and medications also washes away the magnesium found in your diet and your body especially osmotic diuretics, cisplatin, ciclosporin, amphetamines, and possibly proton pump inhibitors.

Continued exposure to stress and excessive intake of alcohol both result in the unhealthy drop of magnesium levels in the blood. While there are environmental settings that we may not be able to alter, we can certainly control what we ingest. Supplementation is the only surefire remedy for magnesium deficiency, but the best way to combat whatever symptoms you are experiencing is to seek medical advice.

It is Essential You Get Your Magnesium Daily!

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Date: February 09, 2011 01:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How does Malic Acid help with Fibromyalgia?

Malic Acid And Fibromyalgia

If you feel sensitized to pain by otherwise harmless stimuli, then you may be experiencing symptoms of fibromyalgia, which has been recorded to affect up to 4 per cent of the population worldwide. It is characterized by a feeling of weakness in the muscles of the limbs, conscious awareness of abnormal heartbeat, problems concerning bowel movement, and disturbances to sleep patterns. All of these are complaints reported to have been addressed by supplementation of malic acid.

The medical community remains inconclusive as to what causes fibromyalgia, some claiming it’s not a disease at all. While symptoms may not be necessarily medical signs, there are innumerable cases that describe complaints we collectively refer to as fibromyalgia. Throughout the past few decades, medical professionals around the world have considered these symptoms as one musculoskeletal disease whereas most neurologists have contended that fibromyalgia is attributable to the abnormalities within the nervous system. Today the American College of Rheumatology has charted nine paired tender points in an effort to describe the symptoms for this condition better.

Known Causes in Scrutiny

The most common symptoms of fibromyalgia more often than not appear simultaneously with stress-induced medical conditions such as chronic fatigue, anxiety disorders, and depression, but they are known to develop independently. A tissue in the brain responsible for long-term memory and spatial navigation called hippocampus have shown abnormalities among patients of fibromyalgia, thereby affecting sleep patterns, perception of pain, and related cognitive functions.

In the latter half of the 20th century it is postulated that serotonin leads to fibromyalgia. Serotonin being a neurotransmitter that governs mood, attention, and pain were found to be significantly decreased in the blood plasma and cerebrospinal fluid among patients who reported to experience this condition. That being said, the introduction of serotonin inhibitors used in treatment of depression has also shown alleviations of pain-related symptoms across the tender point index.

Malic Acid and Prognosis

Malic acid was discovered as a constituent of apple juice as early as the 18th century. Reduced levels of malic acid contribute to the maturity of fruits. In human beings it plays a fundamental role as an intermediate in a metabolic pathway that influences the chemical conversion of bioactive compounds like carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into carbon dioxide and water, which in turn convert the molecules contained in the cytoplasmic fluid of cells into energy generated in the mitochondria.

The availability of malic acid inside the human body modulates functional activities at the cellular level by speeding up the metabolism of bioactive compounds and consequently the production of energy in use by the cells. That being said, malic acid provides vitality to muscle cells, raising their endurance against stress. In addition, there have been reports that intake of malic acid help elevate levels of serotonin, leading to improved response to pain and better management of fibromyalgia.

For now, the tender point index is the primary diagnostic tool for evaluating fibromyalgia, and the use of malic acid has been recorded to reduce pain in these points.

Have you had your Malic Acid today?

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Date: October 19, 2010 02:21 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Probiotics are good for the intestinal tract

Many people confuse prebiotics with probiotics, yet they are as different as night and day. Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial to your gastrointestinal system, and that are available in various foods such as yoghurts and sauerkraut. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are relatively non-digestible (to humans) foods that enable the probiotics to grow and carry out their intended function.

Basically, probiotics keep your friendly bacteria functional and healthy. The majority take the form of sugary carbohydrates known as oligosaccharides, available from foods such as legumes, fruits and cereal grains. They are not destroyed by digestion, and reach your gut practically unchanged. Although they have relatively little food value to us, they certainly do to bacteria that break them down into the nutrients needed for their growth and development.

Without taking prebiotics, these probiotics would be of little benefit to you because they would have nothing to live on. They don't eat the same foods as you, and the myth that they digest the same food that you eat is just that - a myth! ~facebook~

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Date: July 17, 2009 03:46 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fight Hypoglycemia With Fiber

Symptoms of hypoglycemia can be very subtle and difficult to recognize. Many people with hypoglycemia have become so used to their symptoms that often, they don’t even recognize their own abnormality. This is especially true when it comes to behavioral changes.

There is a whole variety of symptoms that can be caused when the body cells are deprived of sugar or when blood sugar drops too quickly. The most common symptom of hypoglycemia is fatigue. When referring to fatigue, the normal kind of fatigue that occurs after hard work or exercise is not what is being discussed. Hypoglycemic fatigue affects the muscles and nerves and usually can’t be relieved with rest or sleep. The brain is extremely dependent on glucose for its energy source. Once blood sugar levels have dropped, hormones kick into action. The release of adrenaline can cause sweating, tremors, hunger, and weakness. It should also be kept in mind that if your blood sugar levels drop at a more gradual pace, the patient may not even recognize the symptoms as those of hypoglycemia. Those experiencing symptoms of hypoglycemia may feel dizzy, confused, clouded, and emotionally unstable without any visible tremors. Symptoms such as anxiety or panic attacks can become a part of hypoglycemic mood swings.

Other mental symptoms of hypoglycemia include melancholy, irritability, hostility, confusion, and paranoia.

Along with the above, there are many other symptoms that can result from hypoglycemia. These symptoms include amnesia, anxiety, antisocial behavior, breathing difficulties, confusion, constant worry, crying jags, depression, digestive disorders, drowsiness, emotional instability, exhaustion, headaches, heart palpitations, impatience, inability to cope, insomnia, intense hunger, internal trembling, irritability, lack of concentration, nervousness, dizziness, seizures, severe sweating, fainting, tingling, and tremors.

Nocturnal hypoglycemia is when blood sugar levels are low at night time, causing insomnia. Eating a whole grain snack or small piece of cheese 30 minutes before going to bed can help to reduce occurrences of this scenario.

There are, unfortunately, hundreds of people that struggle with low-blood sugar symptoms and are unaware as to why. By simply switching for a diet that is high in refined carbohydrates to one that is comprised of protein and complex carbohydrates, one can bridge the gap between a dysfunctional life and a rich one. In order to determine whether you have hypoglycemia, you must first examine your eating habits. Simple facts like what and when you eat can directly affect how you feel. Anyone who has unexplained fatigue, depression, crying spells, anxiety, or apprehension should investigate low blood sugar levels as a potential culprit. You should also look into your family history, as hypoglycemia tends to run within families.

Those people who are chronically stressed and often find themselves on a roller coaster of blood sugar going up and down are especially prone to dips in energy at certain times of the day. These people have adrenals that are not functioning optimally, causing them to want sugar when they hit a real low point. Usually, in the mid-afternoon, adrenal glands are at their lowest level of functioning. If you do, in fact, suffer from hypoglycemia, you will feel good right after you eat and then your mood and physical status will deteriorate from two to six hours after eating.

Keeping your glucose levels stable is important to maintaining good health. Snacking on complex carbohydrate foods can help regulate the amount of sugar that is released into your blood system. Consuming large quantities of fiber can also slow down the absorption of sugar in the digestive tract and level out blood sugar.

Look for great advice and fiber supplements at your local or internet health food store. When purchasing products, always buy name brands to ensure quality and purity of the supplements you buy. Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Lycopene is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.

--
Buy Fiber at Vitanet ®, LLC

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Date: April 23, 2009 01:54 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Protect The Liver with Glutathione And Cysteine

The tripeptide L-glutathione is synthesized in the body from L. glutamic acid, L-cysteine and glycine, a reaction that can occur in any cell of the body although it is essential that it also occurs in the liver. Should glutathione concentrations drop, they can be increased by supplementing with cysteine or any other of the three amino acids that are used in the biosynthesis of this important if substance

The tripeptide exists in two forms: the reduced form (GSH) which contains a sulfhydryl (SH) functional group attached to the cysteinyl part of the molecule, and the oxidized form glutathione disulfide (GSSG). As electrons are lost from the reduced form, two molecules combine to create a dimer formed by a disulfide bridge, the process which can be reversed through reduction of the GSSG. Such electrons are lost during its reaction with free radicals, in which the free radicals are neutralized by the donation of an electron from the oxidized version of glutathione.

The definition of a free radical is a molecule that is lacking one electron from an electronic pair. Its prime purpose is then to steal an electron from the nearest molecule to it. In doing so, it can not only destroy that molecule, but also destroy body cells and lead, not only to premature aging, but also to some potentially fatal conditions.

It is an unusual peptide in that it involves a link between the cysteine amino grouping and the carboxyl functional group of the glutamic acid. It is a powerful antioxidant, acting as an effective free radical scavenger and protecting the body cells from the effects of free radical oxidation. However, it is on its detoxification effect in the liver that we shall focus here prior to discussing some other uses to which the body puts glutathione in its two manifestations.

Much of the detoxification is connected with the thiol group in the molecule. Take mercury for example. The thiol grouping forms a strong Hg-sulfydryl chemical bond within the liver, in the form of a glutathione-mercury chelate. In this form mercury is unable to exert any toxic effect on the body and can be excreted in the normal manner. The same reactive pathway is followed by other heavy metals that can bond to thiol groupings. In this way L-glutathione can protect the liver from the effects of a number of toxic heavy metals such as cadmium and chromium.

This is an important property of the amino acid, particularly in industrial and urban environments where the population is more prone to exposure to heavy metals than their rural counterparts. However, the end result on the glutathione is that it is removed from the body, and, particularly with city dwellers, a supplement may be required to maintain a healthy concentration of this amino acid in the body and in particular in the liver. Therefore, although L-glutathione is not considered an essential amino acid, in that it is biosynthesized within the body, a supplement is sometimes required, particularly by those who live in large cities.

It is important to consider the form in which the glutathione supplement is administered. This is because of the presence of gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase within the digestive system. This enzyme appears to destroy L-glutathione before it can be absorbed in the intestine so normal oral forms of supplementation are likely to be ineffective. Possible forms of effective administration include buccal (between the cheek and teeth) and hypodermically.

An alternative means of supplementation is to take substances such as selenium, methionine, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin C and glutamine that stimulate the biosynthesis of glutathione. Also, since the substance utilizes the raw materials of L-cysteine, glutamic acid and glycine in its intracellular production, supplementation with these amino acids should also help to produce L-glutathione.

That said, let's return to its antioxidant properties and its effect on the liver that contains the largest stocks of glutathione in the body. It is generally regarded as the most important antioxidant in the body. It protects cellular cytoplasm from oxidation by reducing disulfide groups and maintaining a highly reducing environment within the cytoplasm. It reacts with hydrogen peroxide and other oxidative agents, and is converted to the oxidized form GSSG. It is then reduced back to GSH through the combination of the reducing agent and an enzyme. The reducing agent is nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), the enzyme being glutathione reductase.

The implications that this strong reducing effect has on the liver are significant. Reduced GSH L-glutathione levels have been found in patients suffering from HIV, hepatitis C and other liver diseases. Supplementation with GSH has been found to restore normal levels of glutathione to the liver, and it has been demonstrated that the treatment has improved such conditions significantly.

Atherosclerosis is a condition of the arteries caused by the deposition of plaques formed from oxidized low-density lipoproteins, otherwise known as bad cholesterol. The strong antioxidant effect of GSH prevents this from LDLs from being oxidized and deposited on the arterial wall. There are other results of glutathione supplementation that indicate the effectiveness of antioxidants in the treatment of serious liver conditions, and there are no doubts that combating the effects of free radicals and oxidizing agents within the liver has a positive effect on many potentially serious liver diseases.

Many of these are exacerbated by the generation of free radicals by relatively modern pollution sources such as pesticides, petrol and diesel emissions, tobacco fumes and various other chemical emissions. A strong antioxidant such as L-glutathione cannot be anything other than an effective means of reducing the biological effect of these oxidants. It protects not only the liver but also the lungs and cardiovascular system.

For all these reasons a supplement consisting of L-glutathione or its constituent parts, glutamic acid, cysteine and glycine, provide significant protection against the stresses and strains of modern living. Increased pollution levels and heightened oxidative stress levels within the body are playing havoc with our body defenses, and GSH is an important one of them that can easily be enhanced by supplementation. There are no known reactions to L-glutathione supplementation, but pregnant women and babies should receive expert medical advice prior to taking it.

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Date: November 28, 2008 10:04 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Holy Basil Extract

It has been proposed that holy basil extract can help you cope with stress, and an investigation into the active components of the plant does indicate that there could be a scientific basis behind this use of it. This is in line with most traditional Ayurvedic medicines, whose benefits have been supported by modern scientific evidence.

Holy basil, otherwise known as Tulsi or Tulasi in Sanskrit and Hindi, is correctly Ocimum tenuiflorum, an aromatic member of the Lamiaceae family just as the more common form of basil is (Ocimum basilicum). Holy basil is cultivated for several reasons, the major ones being for its essential oils, for culinary use, religious use and for its medicinal properties. It is grown right across South Asia. Thai holy basil is used in Thai cookery while other forms play an important role within some of the traditions of Hinduism and is found profusively around Hindu temples.

Holy basil extract has been used for thousands of years for its healing and medicinal properties, and is mentioned in the ancient Ayurvedic text, the Charaka Samhita. It is written that it is used to balance a number of bodily processes and believed to be involved in promoting longevity. It is considered to be able to allow the body to adapt to stress and is also used to treat a large number of different medical conditions, from headaches to malaria and heart disease.

Most modern medical studies, however, have been carried out on animals rather than human subjects, so definitive evidence is lacking, and while there is evidence that tulsi extract might be an effective antioxidant and help in the control of blood sugar, there is also compelling evidence that it might be able to counteract the effects of stress. First, let's have a look at the active ingredients of holy basil extract, and how they fit in with the beneficial medical properties claimed.

One of the more important components of tulsi is eugenol, or 1-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-allylbenzene. Eugenol is a phenylpropanoid, also found in clove oil, and is a COX-2 inhibitor that is used in medicine as a local anesthetic. Two others are the triterpenes oleanolic and ursolic acids, which possess anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. The pentacyclic ursolic acid can inhibit the development of various forms of cancers through the inhibition of the STAT3 pathway that is responsible for several types of human cancer that have poor prognosis.

Also present in holy basil extract is the polyphenol Rosmarinic acid which is a powerful antioxidant that is also present in herbs such as rosemary, oregano and thyme. Rosmarinic acid will also contribute to the anti-inflammatory properties of holy basil, and many of the antibacterial properties it is said to possess could be due to carvacrol, a terpene that damages bacterial cell membranes and inhibits the growth of a number of bacterial strains.

Another component of Tulsi is the sesquiterpene B-caryophyllene, also contained in clove oil, and also possessing anti-inflammatory properties in mice. It is unknown whether or not these properties are transferred to humans, but the evidence of the use of the plant is that they are. Beta-caryophyllene is an FDA approved food additive, and as such, a dietary cannabinoid. Apegenin, also present in tulsi, is a flavanoid and another strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

With all of these ingredients that have proven health benefits, it is little wonder that holy basil is claimed to have the health benefits that it has. But what about its effects on blood sugar that it is said to control? It's probably not a coincidence that many other herbs that contain eugenol, such as cloves, are also claimed to have the same moderating effect on blood sugar levels. Not only that, but since diabetes is an inflammatory condition, it is not surprising that holy basil extract, that is rich in ant-inflammatories, should possess this property.

The main theory is that many of the components of holy basil can help support the beta cell function of the pancreas, and so enhance the secretion of insulin. In one of the few controlled human tests, a group of 40 people with Type 2 diabetes stopped taking their normal medication seven days before the test. They were then given holy basil leaves for an initial period of 5 days. Half were then given 2.5g powder holy basil leaf and the other half a placebo for 4 weeks. The two groups then switched over for 4 weeks - the first being on the placebo, and the second taking the holy basil.

With the first group, the average fasting glucose level dropped by 25.9%, from 234.5 mg/dl to 99.7. After switching to the placebo for 4 weeks it increased to 115.6 mg/dl (15.9% increase). The fasting blood glucose of the second group dropped from an average of 132.4 to 123.2 (6.9%), and then when on the holy basil leaf, dropped further to 97.2 mg/dl (21.1%).

This demonstrates clearly that holy basil leaf reduces blood sugar significantly faster than fasting, and so is beneficial to Type 2 diabetics. Perhaps more such studies should be carried out to confirm these important results, which appear to conform to the theory that the components of the plant should have this type of effect on blood sugar levels.

How about stress? Tulsi is said to particularly useful to people suffering from stress. The human stress response is an inflammatory cascade in which the immune system reacts by attempting to repair the stressed areas. If this response gets out of hand the stress can be exacerbated, and it is important that the stress response is carried put at an appropriate level.

A COX-2 modulator can prevent the inflammatory cascade by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme that causes it. Since eugenol is a COX-2 inhibitor, it can help to keep the body healthy and prevent the stress reaction. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of many of the components of holy basil extract can help to prevent the body being stressed by antioxidants and by today's environmental pollution and it also possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties to help reduce illness.

It is also an adaptogen, which enhances your natural response to emotional stress and helps your body functional normally when stressed. Studies have indicated that holy basil extracts can reduce the levels of corticosterone, a hormone responsible for stress, and improve your mood and mental clarity. Longer term effects can include memory improvement and a reduction in the risk of age-related mental conditions.

The active factors involved in the reduction of mental stress, and an increase in mental clarity, are the essential oils that tulsi contains, and their chemical components: particularly eugenol and caryophyllene. Studies have shown these to elevate the spirit and the mood, while the terpene acids, such as ursolic acid and oleanolic acid, can help to improve your body's response to stress.

There are very few doubts of the effect of holy basil extract (or tulsi extract and leaf) in improving mood, mental clarity and reducing the effects of stress, or of its other extensive beneficial medical effects. More studies might be needed to prove them to the medical community, but even now people suffering from diabetes mellitus are benefiting from its moderating effect on blood sugar levels, and once again the application of Ayurvedic medicine is being proved as effective in the modern era as it was in the ancient world.

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Date: September 24, 2008 09:17 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Colostrum

Balance is crucial for a healthy immune system. A variety of stressors such as bacteria, parasites, pollutants, strong emotions, and improper diet, can cause the immune system to become imbalanced. If the immune system is weakened then it is less able to fight against invading antigens. Disorders and reactions such as allergies, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, lupus, Crohn’s disease and diabetes can also occur if the immune system is overactive and begins to fight against itself. However, if the immune system is healthy and balanced, the body will be protected and healed from foreign invaders. But if the immune system is under active or non-responsive, it is susceptible to infection, illness, and emotional distress. By supplementing with natural immune modulators, the immune system can achieve and maintain optimum balance.

Cytokines consist of a variety of multifunctional molecules which work to regulate and control the body’s defense system. These biomolecules are crucial for optimal immune function as they play a key role in immunity, infectious disease, blood production, tissue repair, and cellular development and growth. Cytokines actually play an important role in a variety of body functions, ranging from general maintenance and the regulation of inflammatory responses to the direct interference of invading pathogens.

Cytokines are also important messengers that are used by the immune system to inform the rest of the body that an infection has been discovered. Any immune system imbalance can lead to interference between cytokines and proper body function. Different cytokines have different actions on the same cell. However, there is a large degree of overlap between the actions of one cytokine and another. Cytokines have been given a variety of names throughout the years including chemokines, monokines, interferons, interleukins, lymphotoxins, lymphokines, and leukokines. Cytokines are part of large signaling network that have additive, inhibitory, and synergistic effects.

The most important immune functions are carried out by groups of cytokines that are known as interleukin 1 and 2, interferons, and tumor necrosis factor. They help to modulate the immune system when the tissue is being threatened or damaged. Interleukin 1 helps to protect against the effects of radiation and encourage the growth of immune cells, while tumor necrosis factor is produced in response to bacteria and other disease-causing agents. Additionally, tumor necrosis factor also promotes the production of more cytokines. Tumor necrosis factor also has anti-tumor properties which increases the activity of other cells that fight tumors and also affects the blood system in tumors. It also effectively helps to slow down or reverse tumor growth by starving cancer cells of the nutrients they need and reducing blood flow.

Researchers are currently looking at treating various disorders with cytokines because it is clear that cytokines link the immune system to other physiological systems. Because of the intricate network of the cytokine processes, many researchers believe that the treatment of various immune disorders could potentially require a combination of immuno-regulatory factors. Many scientists are trying to recombining cytokines; however it is extremely limited because they are extremely expensive; they may be toxic and cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches and fatigue; and they may create imbalances in the patient that would not benefit them.

As a result of these facts, researchers are turning their attention to a natural immune modulator such as hyperimmune egg and colostrum. Hyperimmune egg and colostrum can stimulate the production and activities of powerful immune agents and jump-start the body’s own defense system, instead of having to rely on drugs to fight invading pathogens.




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Date: May 07, 2008 03:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: B Vitamin Supplements

The fact that B vitamins have had to be coenzymated before they can be used by your body has been known for some time, but it is only over the past few years that they have been made commercially available in that form. Before we discuss the B vitamins in their coenzyme form it might be appropriate to discuss what coenzymes are and how they differ from ordinary enzymes.

An enzyme is like an organic catalyst: it takes part in biochemical reactions by allowing such reactions to take place, but itself remaining unchanged. All enzymes are proteins formed in your body from amino acids and other protein material. A coenzyme, on the other hand, is somewhat like an enzyme for the enzymes, in that it is needed for the enzyme to do its job. Without a coenzyme, many enzymes could not promote the biochemical reaction it is responsible for.

The B vitamins are all water soluble, which means that they are readily excreted and it is not impossible that if you take a B vitamin supplement, the whole lot will be immediately excreted in your urine if not used by your body. Whether they are or not it is a fact that your body can quickly become depleted of the B vitamin group, especially if you drink a lot. Alcoholics in particular are frequently vitamin B deficient. Although the liver can store unused vitamin B, they are only very small quantities and insufficient to prevent a deficiency.

A deficiency in the B vitamins can cause a wide range of unpleasant conditions that are rapidly remedied with supplements. Pellagra is due largely to a deficiency in Vitamin B3, and causes hair loss, horrible skin lesions and many other side effects that you don’t want to know about. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause loss of memory, and is common in alcoholics and some vegetarians (vitamin B12 is animal derived). Other symptoms of a general B vitamin deficiency include exhaustion, heart palpitations, fibrillation, anxiety, restlessness, attention deficit disorder and many, many more.

It is not pleasant so you make sure that take enough vitamin B in your diet: dietary sources are far superior to pills although supplements will help you get over the symptoms of the deficiency until your diet takes over. Supplementation is also a good way to maintain a regular supply of vitamin B complex irrespective of your diet. The effects of a deficiency are so bad that a regular supplement is well worth taking.

However, back to coenzymes and why they are needed for the metabolism of B vitamins in your body. Most B vitamins are, in fact, coenzymes themselves. Keep in mind that the definition of a vitamin is an organic substance that is essential for the normal health of your body. If you lack even one vitamin, your health with suffer and eventually you will be likely to die. That describes all of the B vitamins perfectly, and they also just happen to be coenzymes. This is not coincidence, of course, and their biochemistry must have been recognized before the concept of coenzymes was formulated.

The B vitamins proper consist of eight distinct proteins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), B12 (cyanocobalamin), and biotin and pantothenic acid. They are all essential components in human and animal metabolism, and most are also coenzymes.

Every cell in your body depends on B vitamins for its existence, which is why pregnant women should include a good supply of them in their diet, especially folic acid (B9). They are essential for the cellular development of the fetus. Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of nucleic acids that allow cell growth and the production of red blood cells. However, not one can be placed in importance above any other since they are all essential.

With respect to the coenzyme factor, the vitamin B coenzymes are responsible for many of the biochemical reactions upon which life depends. Coenzyme B-12 for example is essential for two types of reaction that it catalyzes, one being a hydrogen atom exchange with alcohol and amine functional groups, the other being connected with methyl group transfer between molecules.

In humans, the first of these is responsible for an essential step that results in energy being metabolized from fats and proteins in the mitochondria and the second for DNA production in cells that is indirectly responsible for growth. Each of these is why a vitamin B-12 deficiency leads to excessive fatigue and also a lack of fetal growth (although folic acid can make up for the latter deficiency).

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is a coenzyme for the metabolism of carbohydrates to energy. In the body it is present in the form of thiamine diphosphate, a coenzyme that assists in the decarboxylation of pyruvate as part of the citric acid cycle, otherwise known as the Krebs Cycle, that takes place in the mitochondria and is responsible for the generation of energy through aerobic respiration.

Another coenzyme that is involved in the Krebs Cycle is formed in the body from Vitamin B3, or niacin. This coenzyme, nicotinamine adenine dinucleotide, has a redox potential and can store energy for use later on. Vitamin B5 can be converted in the body to Coenzyme A that not only breaks proteins down into individual amino acids, but also takes part in the first part of the Krebs Cycle. There is a common pattern emerging here where the B vitamins have an important part to play in the generation of energy from fats and carbohydrates.

Similarly, Vitamin B6 is present in the body as the coenzyme Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate that helps to break down the body’s emergency energy store, glycogen, into energy when needed.

In these ways, and more, the coenzymes created in the body from the B vitamins help many of the reactions of life to take place, and without these coenzymes life could not exist. Hence the importance of the B vitamins themselves, and any deficiency could be disastrous to the metabolic processes that generate energy and keep you alive. It is not just the energy needed for exercise and normal human activity that will be compromised, but also that which keeps the heart beating and your diaphragm moving to allow you to breath.

Without a doubt, a Vitamin B supplement is one of the most valuable of all the vitamin supplements, and they are available in many forms. You might also find some of the B vitamins in their coenzyme form, though some of them may be unstable. However, whatever form they are taken in, Vitamin B complex should be one of the first on your vitamin supplement shopping list.

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Date: April 08, 2008 08:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What is Hoodia?

1. What is Hoodia? Despite its similar appearance, the cactus-like hoodia is characterized as a succulent plant, which is a member of the milkweed family. Though there are about 20 species within the family, the active ingredient of hoodia is found only in the gordonii variety native to South Africa's vast Kalahari Desert

2. What assurances can be made that Source Naturals Hoodia Extract is authentic? Experts in succulent horticulture have helped ensure that the raw material Source Naturals uses to make Hoodia Extract is gathered from authentic Hoodia gordonii sources. From there, our supplier has an independent laboratory test the raw material, which is then issued with a certificate of analysis qualifying it as true Hoodia gordonii.

Once Source Naturals receives the certified Hoodia gordonii from our suppliers, we hold it to our own high standards and Total Quality Assurance. By putting it through stringent testing procedures in our quality control lab, we've carefully scrutinized the material. Before it ever reaches the hand of consumers, our high-quality hoodia is put through High Performance Thin Layer Chromatographic (HPTLC) analysis for authenticity, and microbiological screening for contamination, as well as other rigorous laboratory protocols.

3. Could you explain the 20:1 ratio? 20:1 refers to the "wet to dry" ratio of the whole plant to concentrated powder. Hoodia gordonii contains an abundance of excess moisture that needs to be removed in order to make an effective, concentrated powder. The process by which that moisture is removed to yield the powder is an extraction. Basically, 20 pounds of whole plant is concentrated to one pound of the high-quality powder used to make our product.

What this means is, we've made a supplement with 20 times more functional hoodia than had we ground the plant up water and all. When you buy Source Naturals Hoodia Extract, you're getting all of the usable plant parts of the Hoodia gordonii times 20, because we've packed a greater amount of the quintessential hoodia ingredients into a powerful, concentrated powder.

4. Is a 20:1 concentrated extract more effective than 1:1 hoodia powder? We at Source Naturals certainly believe so. Unfortunately, the hoodia landscape has been unnecessarily clouded recently thanks to the misinformation circulating about concentrated extracts and so-called "100%" (1:1) hoodia powder. Most of the information is highly subjective, with no studies whatsoever to support claims that so-called "pure" powder is more efficacious than 20:1 concentrated extracts.

The common selling point for those propagating a 1:1 hoodia product is the notion that "more is better" - which, when you think about it, actually benefits a 20:1 concentrated extract. Because the logic behind using the 20:1 concentrated extract is that, in supplementation, it's not practical to ingest as much of the whole plant parts of hoodia as the San did to get the potential benefits of the plant. In using the concentrated 20:1 ratio, we're able to pack 20 times the amount of usable hoodia into our Hoodia Extract. How much more could you need?

5. Where was the hoodia in Hoodia Extract grown? On an approved farm in Northern Cape, South Africa.

6. Who is our supplier? Due to obvious business considerations, we don't want to specifically name our supplier and alert competitors to our source. However you can be assured that we receive our Hoodia gordonii from one of the industry's top suppliers, who was among the first and only importers of hoodia licensed to sell and import the plant into the United States.

7. I've heard there are sustainability issues with the plant. Is it endangered? It is true that the resources for Hoodia gordonii are limited due to early irresponsibility on those seeking to exploit the plant's benefits. However, Source Naturals Hoodia Extract has been produced with environmental sustainability in mind. We've made absolutely sure that only materials safely cultivated from the stems of seedlings grown on approved farms in South Africa have been used in making Hoodia Extract, not material indiscriminately picked in the wild.

8. How should it be used? Take one to two tablets or capsules with an 8 ounce glass of water about an hour before eating a meal.

9. Why does the label warning recommend consulting your health care professional before using this product if you are taking any prescription medication? This is a standard warning included on most Source Naturals product labels because generally it's a good idea to double check with your physician if you're taking prescription medication to make sure there aren't any special precautions you need to take while on the medication.

10. Does it contain caffeine? No. There is no caffeine in Hoodia gordonii, and Source Naturals Hoodia Extract does not contain any added caffeine.

11. Are there any side-effects? There are no known negative side-effects to taking hoodia products.

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Date: April 03, 2008 12:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Third- The Science (Putting It All Together) Boswellia & Inflammation

Frankincense has traditionally been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, and is even mentioned in the Bible. The trunk exudes a resin containing mono- and sesquiterpenes that possess powerful anti-inflammatory properties. They are also well known antiseptics and astringents, and support the immune and respiratory systems.

These terpenes are commonly referred to as boswellian acids, and consist of a carboxylated pentacyclic triterpene with at least one more functional group. Both the alpha and beta acid have a hydroxyl (-OH) grouping, and there are also the acetyl (CH3CO-) equivalents with an acetyl group replacing the OH. There are other so-called-boswellian acids, and it is believed that they all play a part in the anti-inflammatory properties of the resin.

The acetyl derivatives are thought to be involved in the death of some cancer cells, particularly those involve in brain and colon tumors, and also leukemia. The way in which they achieve this appears to be a programmed progression that ends with the dying out of the cells rather than a violently destructive mechanism, which lends credence to the Ayurvedic belief that the treatment is a natural one designed by nature.

The anti-inflammatory properties of the acetyl triterpenes are due to their effect on leukotrienes that sustain the inflammatory reactions of many allergic reactions and also of asthma. They appear to inhibit the enzyme elastase in leukocytes; this is a crucial enzyme in the production of the chemicals that promote inflammation.

It has been established that the inflammatory response of the immune system is due to the action of specific enzymes, so it stands to reason that if you can inhibit these enzymes, then you will also inhibit the immune response to specific initiators and so reduce the pain involved. Bosellian acid in the form of triterpenes appears to contain these inhibitors, and this would appear to explain its effectiveness. Pinene and phellandrene are among the terpenes isolated from Boswellia.

A standardised dose of 60% - 65% of Bosellian acids is generally used, so if you are purchasing Boswellia this is what you should be looking for. Keep in mind that it is intended to treat inflammation, ands that inflammation is an indicator that something with your body is not quite right. Therefore, while inflammation is painful, and Boswellia may help, you should also treat the cause of the inflammation by treating the immune system.

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Date: January 31, 2008 09:00 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Astaxanthin, a Member of the Carotenoid Family, is a Powerful Antioxidant

Astaxanthin is a member of the carotenoid family responsible for the red color of many types of algae. Being a carotenoid, it is a powerful antioxidant and free radical scavenger as well as support proper eye function.

However, such a bland statement belies the true worth of astaxanthin in its fight against free radicals. It is of particular benefit in its ability to absorb the high energy of singlet oxygen, releasing it as heat, and returning the singlet oxygen to its ground neutralized state. Singlet oxygen is a particularly harmful and reactive oxygen species of free radical that is formed in the body as part of our normal metabolism, and that contains a high level of free energy that can be used to oxidize and destroy the cells of your body.

In achieving this, astaxanthin is regarded as one of the most potent plant derived antioxidants known, being up to ten times more active than beta carotene, Lutein or its cousin canthaxanthin. So why are antioxidants so valuable to our biochemistry and what would happen if they did not exist?

Free radicals are thieves that use your body as their operating ground. They operate by stealing an electron from a molecule that comprises part of you, and in some cases when this occurs the cell from which the electron is removed is destroyed. Generally electrons go around in pairs, but occasionally an electron pair can lose one of the electrons during a chemical reaction. Many such reactions occur naturally inside the body, especially during the production of energy from blood sugars in the mitochondria, and such a molecule containing a single unpaired electron is called a free radical. Free radicals are also generated by the reactive components of many pollutants such as traffic fumes and cigarette smoke, tars and pesticides, and also by the effect of UV radiation in sunlight.

The only purpose of a free radical is to steal an electron from the first source it can find. Such reactions occur very rapidly after the free radical has been generated, and if this electron belongs to another body cell, then the cell is destroyed leading to effects such as premature aging or even cancers. Free radical oxidation of the LDL lipids that carry cholesterol around the blood causes the deposition of fatty plaques inside arterial walls that eventually become constricted or even blocked, leading to heart disease or strokes.

That is why antioxidants that destroy these free radicals are so prized, and the more of them that there are in your body then the less affect the free radicals will have on you. You will retain your youthful looks longer, and will be less liable to suffer from heart disease, cancers, circulation problems and conditions such as diabetes. Many abnormal conditions can be laid at the door of free radicals.

The stronger the free radical, the more harm it can do to you and a strong antioxidant such as astaxanthin is a very powerful weapon in your armory against them. Astaxanthin is a member of the oxygenated xanthophylls, and its high level of antioxidant power likely comes from the ketonic and hydroxyl functional groups of the ionone ring structure. It is more polar than most carotenoids, and this is a likely reason for its ability to span the cell membrane layers, with the active groups close to the hydrophilic-hydrophobic interface. They are thus more readily available at the sites where most free radicals tend to be found and provide immediate protection to the cell membrane and also to the intracellular mitochondrial membrane.

Many antioxidants destroy free radicals by donating an electron, and become oxidized themselves. Astaxanthin, however, does not do this, but instead adds the free radicals to its long double bonded chain hence avoiding oxidation and rendering it much more powerful than normal antioxidants. It is unusual among antioxidants in that it is also able to cross the blood-brain barrier, and so reduces oxidative stress that can cause neurological disorders in general, and also problems with eyesight. It can also attach itself to lipoproteins to enable it to be carried throughout the bloodstream, being available anywhere that free radicals are generated. The carotenoid is also active against active oxygen species that are responsible for inflammation.

Another property is its ability to neutralize the oxygenated free radicals formed by the photo-oxidation properties of UVA and UVB radiation. Included in these are the previously mentioned highly reactive singlet oxygen and also triplet oxygen that astaxanthin is able to neutralize without becoming oxidized. In fact reactive oxygen species in general can cause oxidative stress, and they have been thought responsible for many forms of disease and health conditions, and the powerful effect of astaxanthin in targeting many of these has led it to be regarded as highly beneficial to the immune system and to health in general.

Another benefit is the ability of the substance to help prevent the oxidation of high density lipoproteins (HDL) that are responsible for carrying cholesterol in the blood back to the liver for destruction. Free radical oxidation of HDL impairs its ability to transport cholesterol, and so decreasing the level of such free radical oxidation will by definition increase the quantity of good HDL available, and hence reduce the concentration of cholesterol in the blood. Studies have proved this to be the case, and astaxanthin supplements are very beneficial to those suffering from high blood cholesterol levels, and helps protect them from heart disease and strokes.

The substance is naturally available from a wide range of marine sources, such as lobsters (where it was first discovered), shrimp, salmon, trout and in a wide variety of red and green algae. The substance is also used as a red pigment. Carotenoids are essential, meaning that they are not produced in the human body and can only be obtained in our diets.

For that reason, the most convenient way to take it, apart from continually eating shrimp and lobster, is as a supplement. Astaxanthin is available either as a powerful antioxidant in its own right, or in combination with other substances with which it acts to provide a very strong deterrent to any free radicals that think they can freely roam your body.

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Date: January 22, 2008 04:38 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: You Should Say: Please Pass the Broccoli, Not I’ll Pass

'Please pass the broccoli': not something that many mothers hear from their children. In fact, not many children appear to like any green vegetables let alone broccoli. This is not important at such a young age, but there comes a time when the health benefits that broccoli brings become almost essential to your good health and well being. Parents are right, but your children won’t believe you.

Some say that the nutritional punch of broccoli is stronger than that of any other vegetable. Is this claim justified? Let’s have a look at the evidence and the facts and you can judge for yourself. First the ‘ordinary’ nutrients of broccoli: vitamin C (more than oranges) and A, folic acid and calcium and also lots and lots of fiber. However, this wonderful vegetable contains not only high levels of calcium, but is also the one of the richest vegetable sources of magnesium. Calcium needs magnesium in order to be properly incorporated into your bone structure, and so broccoli is a very important calcium/magnesium source for vegans that do not drink milk or eat any other dairy products.

It is also rich in protein, containing 3% by weight and is also rich in iron. It is therefore an important part of the diet of women during menstruation when iron is important to enable the blood to maintain its proper erythrocyte levels. A deficiency of iron in the diet of women can lead to anemia and render them more susceptible to infection. However, it is more than just iron that renders this vegetable an important part of the female diet. Broccoli has been established to be of major importance in preventing cancer.

It is likely the most potent anti-cancer vegetable in your diet, and it has been established over 20 years of study that broccoli can help to prevent cancers of the breast and the cervix. The indoles that it contains prevent estrogens from promoting tumor growth, and it also contains beta-carotene, a strong antioxidant that destroys the free radicals that can also cause cancer. However, there is more to broccoli than just that.

Broccoli contains the highest concentration of sulforaphane of all the cruciferous vegetables that include Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, rocket and turnip, amongst many others. When you chew broccoli, the glucosinolate glucoraphan is converted to sulforaphane, not by the enzymes in your saliva, but by the actual physical damage done to the plant by the act of chewing. It could likely also be generated by hitting it with a hammer! It is glucosinolates that provide the slightly bitter taste many people experience when they eat vegetables such as brussels sprouts and broccoli, and that likely renders them somewhat unattractive to children!

Sulforaphane is an isothiocyanate containing the NCS functional group, and is actually bound loosely to the sugar as sulforaphane glucosinolate. It is the loose binding that allows it be released on chewing. Broccoli sprouts are its richest source, and it is a strong antioxidant which is why it is so effective in reducing the possibility of certain cancers.

When fighting cancers, your body produces phase-II enzymes, and since sulforaphane induces these enzymes, it stops the carcinogens before they can damage your DNA. This is achieved through the enhancement of the transcription of the proteins that suppress the tumors. In layman’s terms, it is the generation of tumor suppressant proteins from DNA that kills off the tumors before they can destroy the DNA.

There is even more however. Indoles have already been mentioned, and those in question are predominantly indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and 3,3-diindolylmethane (DIM). The latter is generated from the digestion of the former and possesses very potent anti-cancer properties. However, this indole can affect your health in ways other than just as an anti-cancer agent. It can modulate the immune system in a way that renders it suitable for the treatment of a number of viral infections, and is also believed to be a possible answer to the problem of bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics. It appears to operate synergistically with Interferon-Gamma, a cytokine that helps to prevent viruses from replicating within the cells of the body, to strengthen the MHC-I Complex, a part of the human genome that supports the immune response to viral attacks.

To put it plainly, broccoli can aid your resistance not only to certain cancers, but also to attack by viruses and some bacteria. It is not only cancers of the cervix and breast that broccoli can help to prevent, but also of the lung, prostate, larynx and bladder. I3C also helps to support the function of your liver in detoxifying your blood as well as supporting the cellular reproduction without which your body could not maintain itself after damage.

Broccoli is therefore an important vegetable to men as well as to women, not only for its anti-cancer properties, but also as a general antioxidant and consequent free radical scavenging properties. Its high fiber content is equally split between soluble and insoluble vegetable fiber, and so meets your dietary needs of both types.

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli have been singled out by health organizations the world over as essential to your diet, and you should eat them regularly. Once daily would be good, but more is recommended if possible. As stated at the start, strong tasting vegetables containing glucosinolates might not be attractive to children and younger people, but their phytochemical content (the foresaid indoles and isothiocyanates) render them very potent antioxidants and anti-cancer foods.

Taken in relation to other foods, an ounce of broccoli contains as much calcium as a glass of milk, more vitamin C than a similar weight of orange, and a medium floret has more fiber than one slice of bran bread. It is rich in vitamin A and of course there are the other antioxidants and anti-cancer phytochemicals already detailed.

There are many ways of cooking broccoli to maintain its nutritional content, but if you do not like broccoli, then there are supplements available. You can purchase pure broccoli extract or an extract from a mixture of cruciferous vegetables. The choice is yours, but of one thing there can be no doubt. Broccoli is the king of green vegetables, and the nutrients it contains are not available in any other vegetable in such a concentrated and easy to assimilate form.

Your mom was right: it's not just 'eat your veg', but 'eat your broccoli'. No nutritional advice could be better than that. “Pass the broccoli please mom!”

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Date: January 21, 2008 03:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Seniors Need More Than a Multiple with Only 100 Percent of the RDA

The aging process is a gradual one. That might seem obvious, and it is, but it is the fact that it is gradual that causes people not to notice the small but significant changes in their body that are taking place. Aging is more than just the oxidation of skin cells that cause them to wrinkle, but involves specific functional cell changes, such as their ability to multiply.

As this slows down the immune system is affected, and we find it more difficult to recover from injury and disease. Oxidation becomes more prevalent and free radicals become more common as the natural antioxidants of our bodies become overwhelmed. We are less able to recover from the effects of environmental stress, such as UV radiation from the sun, pollution and the effects of heat. We find it increasingly difficult to deal with a lack of nutrition or toxins in our food from pesticides. In short, we become less capable of dealing with attack by invaders, but do not notice this gradual lack of immune response.

Age also affects our joints from the vertebrae in the neck to the joints of our toes. The net result is a compression of the bones that causes a reduction in height. We also develop more body fat and less muscle tissue, which is a significant consideration in planning the nutritional needs of the elderly. However, of more critical importance when discussion the nutritional needs of our aging population is the possibility of malabsorption.

Malabsorption is an inability of the digestive system to absorb nutrients from food, and occurs in people of any age although it tends to be more prevalent in seniors. It is predominantly due to a dysfunction of the liver, the pancreas or the small intestine that are the three major physical components of the human digestive system.

The liver produces bile that is needed to process the fats in your food, and if the bile is not delivered to the small intestine, then malabsorption is possible. The same is true of the enzymes that are produced by the pancreas These enzymes are important components in the biochemistry that allow us to absorb nutrition from our food, and since most of this absorption occurs in the small intestine, this too is essential for proper absorption. When any of these three are reduced in efficiency, as they are with advancing years, then malabsorption will occur.

When this occurs in seniors, however, it is essential that a multiple supplement with more than 100% of the RDA (Rcommended Daily Allowance) is used. This type of nutritional deficiency can be very serious at an age when so many normal biochemical processes are slowing down, and it is important that steps are taken to avoid the serious problems that can arise.

The immediate symptoms of malabsorption are diarrhea and weight loss, although the more serious longer term effects are anemia due to a deficiency in folic acid and iron and a reduction in the blood’s ability to form clots due to a deficiency in vitamin K absorption. There are others, but not all problems associated with aging are actually due to malabsorption, or even with aging.

Many of the problems associated with aging are now believed to be connected with the patient’s lifestyle and diet. Heart disease such as atherosclerosis is now known to begin earlier in life, as are many other conditions once believed to be associated with age. A loss of cognitive ability can be age related, but also due to cigarette smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. However, irrespective of all this, it is essential that the aged are provided with vitamin and mineral supplements offering more than 100% RDA.

Calcium is of particular importance for older women who are particularly prone to osteoporosis due to malabsorption of calcium from their food. At least 1000mg daily should be taken, and extra magnesium and vitamins A and E will also be necessary since they are needed for the proper absorption of calcium. The extra does not infer that all of the supplement will be absorbed, but that enough should be to help reduce the possibility of bone density problems.

The elderly are particularly prone to vitamin B deficiencies, particularly of vitamin B12, due to absorption problems and a good vitamin B complex supplement is needed. Chromium too can be seriously depleted in the aged, and this mineral is necessary to enhance the activity of insulin. It is also believed to play a part in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. There are no known consequences of an excess of chromium so a good supplement can be provided. It is believed that vitamin B and chromium together are required for cardiovascular and neurological health that are so important as we age.

One important supplement for the elderly is Coenzyme Q10. Many older people are prescribed drugs such as statins for the treatment of high cholesterol levels. Statins work by depressing the biochemical synthesis of cholesterol by blocking the action of mevalonate, and this is known to interfere with the metabolism of Coenzyme Q10, otherwise known as ubiquinone.

CoQ10 is essential in allowing the production of energy within the cell mitochondria by allowing electron transfer back and forth between NAD and NADH to allow the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). A supplement of this important enzyme is therefore essential in maintaining the energy levels of the aged who are being prescribed statins.

Almost 20% of the elderly on prescription drugs are also taking herbal remedies and supplements, and there could be an interaction between them. Anybody taking prescription drugs should consult their physicians before taking natural remedies or any form of supplement, and this is particularly true of the elderly.

However, where the elderly are safely taking a vitamin and mineral supplement, it is extremely important that this contains more than just the RDA. Absorption problems are very common in the elderly, and this excess can make sure that they receive more than they would otherwise, if not the whole recommended dosage of the particular substance involved. Better safe than sorry, especially where an excess is not known to cause harm.

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Vitanet ®, LLC

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Date: January 18, 2008 10:55 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: IBS Sufferers Rejoice Over Probiotics

For those people who are tormented by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the good news is that there is a safe and effective remedy. The FDA recently requested that a drug which is commonly used for IBS be withdrawn from the market, with the agency adding that doctors who prescribe the drug should work with their patients to transition them into other therapies. Thankfully, studies have already shown that there are specific bacteria that are as effective as the drug and have no side effects. The news about this probiotic treatment offers relief from the debilitating constipation; diarrhea, abdominal cramps, gas, and bloating that cause IBS victims to suffer.

Since there are so many things that can go wrong with the human body, it is amazing that any of us feel healthy. The rush for scientists to find a cure for every problem people experience is now having a negative impact on us, as bacteria have become resistant to the drugs and many of the medications have side effects that are worse than the initial ailment. For many sufferers of IBS, that is the case with the prescription drug Zelnorm. Early this year, Zelnorm was withdrawn from the market at the request of the FDA because of its life-threatening cardiovascular side effects. It was shown to coincide with a higher chance of heart attack, stroke, and worsening heart chest pain that could eventually become a heart attack. Additionally, anti-diarrheal medications of laxative drugs are not recommended for the long-term treatment of IBS because the colon can become dependant on them for a bowel movement.

Because one in five Americans suffer from IBS, this condition is the most common disease diagnosed by doctors. IBS starts affecting people in their early adulthood, afflicting more women than men. Stress, emotions, and diet can strongly affect the colon of people that affected by IBS, triggering a variety of symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to agonizing. Symptoms of IBS can be so severe that their lifestyle can be disrupted. Although IBS cannot be traced back to a single cause, it is classified as a functional disorder, meaning a problem with the way the body works. Researchers have concluded that more than 75 % of patients with IBS have evidence of excessive bacteria in their small intestines. Doctors tell their patients to control their diet and lessen emotional stress, as well as avoid French fries, milk products, chocolate, alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated sodas. The following factors continually affect overall health and can leave microflora in a bad state: stress, diet, pollution, aging, illness, colon cleanses, drugs and antibiotics, medical treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation, and environmental changes due to traveling or moving.

Research has shown that Bifidobacterium infantis is an effective treatment for all the symptoms of IBS. This supplement helps to restore optimal immune function to protect the intestines from damaging toxins, but also presents no toxins. B. infantis can be found as a supplement, but be sure to buy only supplements that list the exact strain of the bacteria, such as NLS super strain, to make sure that you are getting the right bacteria. This bacterium is the most beneficial bacteria prominent in a healthy baby, having up to 99 percent Bididobacterium spp, in its G.I. tract. B. infantis has also been shown to prevent the invasion of Bacteroies in the gut epithelial layer, a bacteria that is responsible for inflammatory bowel conditions. Taking the right probiotic beneficial bacteria, B. infantis, NLS super strain, may not only ease the symptoms of IBS, it may also help patients achieve optimum health.

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Fight IBS With Help From Vitanet®, LLC

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Date: November 10, 2007 12:24 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 7-Keto, The Next Dhea With No Side Effects

7-Keto is a natural derivative of DHEA that is claimed to be free from many of the side-effects of regular DHEA supplements. DHEA is dehydroepiandosterone, which is the most abundantly produced of the adrenal hormones. After production in and release into the bloodstream by the adrenal glands that are situated just over the kidneys, DHEA undergoes metabolism to the male androgen hormones, and the female estrogens.

As you age, the production DHEA declines, starting at about 30, with a 50% decline by time you reach 40 and almost 85% at 70. This is true of the levels of many hormones in the body, though some, like the steroidal aldosterone, remain constant throughout life. The general rate of metabolism also reduces with age resulting in an even lower conversion rate of DHEA to the male and female hormones.

At the same time as this occurs, there also occurs a significant reduction in the biosynthesis of protein in the body, which results in a loss of muscle mass as you age, and also in the regeneration of bone tissue that results in what is commonly termed age-related osteoporosis. Brain cells die at an increasing rate leading to many neurological conditions and the immune system is also affected negatively.

Due to the concurrence of these aging effects, many scientists have related the general hormonal decline with the other effects of aging. The have asserted that if these hormones were restored, than many of the effects of aging could be delayed. Osteoporosis would be delayed due to the body’ s increased ability to restore lost bone mass, the metabolic rate would improve and fat would be burned at a faster rate and continue to build muscle, the brain would lose its functionality at a significantly lower rate and the immune system would continue to protect the body against disease.

In other words we might be able to live longer, but if not that then at least the quality of life would be maintained longer as we aged. This is a very welcome and desirable situation, but the taking of hormones as supplements has long been regarded as fraught with danger due to the possibility of undesirable side effects, some of them potentially very serious. DHEA was considered as one of these hormones that could be used as a supplement to achieve positive results in reducing these age-related changes because it exhibited these effects in tests on animals.

However, in order that a specific substance can be declared responsible for any metabolic improvement that involves liver biochemistry, some form of receptor has to be identified, and this failed to materialize in DHEA. There appears to be no such DHEA receptor, although that does not necessarily imply that DHEA is not responsible in some way. It might very well be a DHEA metabolite that is responsible, and that has still to be identified. It is certainly true that DHEA administered to both animal and human subjects has resulted in an increase in the testosterone and estrogen levels of the subjects. Such an increase is not desirable due to a number of potential side effects as previously inferred.

These are particularly liable to occur with people who already have an adequate level of natural DHEA production within their body. The side effects include acne, irregularity in the menstrual cycle, itchy scalp, increased body odor and an excess of androgenic hormones can lead to hair loss, or male pattern baldness. Interruptions in the heart rhythm, or palpitations, are another very serious side effect of DHEA supplementation, and high doses over a long period introduce a theoretical risk of certain cancers.

However, the discovery of 7-Keto, a natural derivative of DHEA claimed to be free from many of these side effects, has altered the situation. 7-Keto is a powerful antioxidant that speeds up the metabolism of fat and helps to reduce body weight. It also helps to replace lost fat with muscle mass, though it must be stated that this effect is only valid after the natural production of DHEA has slowed down. It is not a body-building supplement.

It was Professor Henry Lardy, of the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Wisconsin, who tested over 150 DHEA metabolites over 10 years and identified 7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone as having the greatest biochemical effect without having any detectable side effects. This material was trademarked 7-KETO by the Humanetics Corporation, and one of its known effects is to burn fat quicker by stimulating thermogenesis. It had also been shown to strengthen the immune system and to improve the memory. All of this without any measurable increase in any of the sex hormones. It was released after a careful and intensive series of safety tests on both humans and animals found it safe for human consumption.

It should be stressed that 7-Keto is not a hormone, and is not chemically the same as DHEA: it is a different chemical altogether that is produce when DHEA degrades in the body. Because of this it can be promoted as a non-androgenic or estrogenic form of DHEA. It is thought that all of the conditions that decline as we age that can benefit from a supplement of DHEA, will also benefit from a supplement of 7-Keto. However supplementation is only required from the ages of 25 – 30, when the natural amount of DHEA and 7-Keto in the body start to decline.

It causes neither high blood pressure nor any form of cancer, and was submitted to the FDA prior to being made publicly available. It is important to stress that the substance is neither a steroid nor does it metabolize to steroidal hormones, and is also not a sex hormone. It also has no effect on the body’s sex hormones. The whole point of 7-Keto is that it has the effect of DHEA without having any connection whatsoever with steroidal hormones or any hormonal substances. It is totally innocuous and safe to use, without the risk of heart palpitations, lost hair or any of the other side effects of DHEA.

Without a doubt, 7-Keto is a DHEA substitute that has none of the side effects of its precursor. So if you are over the age of 30 and feel the need for an energy boost, give 7-keto a try.

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7 keto DHEA Sale

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Date: May 28, 2007 11:33 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Extended existence?

Humankind has long searched for a special elixir that would confer immortality…or, failing that, at least prolong youthful vitality for a decent number of years. Resveratrol is no magic potion, but it has improved survival rates among mice at the ripe old age (for a mouse) of 114 weeks even overweight mice fed high-calorie chow (Nature online 11/1/06). What’s more the Resveratrol bolstered rodents stayed fit and trim well into their senior years; as Dr. Rafael de Cabo of the National Institute on Aging told the news service heartwire, such a finding “suggests that this compound may not just extend life but may also enable individuals to lead healthy and functional lives for longer.”

While tests continue on how Resveratrol could produce these results, it is believed that this substance may actually mimic the effects of calories restriction, which has been shown to increase longevity. Resveratrol apparently activates a gene known as SIRT1 activation is also associated with greater exercise capacity and fat burning.) in addition, Resveratrol both acts as an antioxidant itself by mopping up dangerous molecules called free radicals and helps enhance the antioxidant effects of vitamin C and E.

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Date: April 19, 2007 02:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: D-Ribose supplied by Bioenergy Life Science

Press Release

A UNIQUE SUGAR MAY BE KEY TO ENERGIZING THE FAILING HEART Bioenergy Life Science's D-ribose offers promising options for energy-deprived hearts

MINNEAPOLIS, MN, APRIL 18, 2007-Following the recent publication in the New England Journal of Medicine that the failing heart is an "engine out of fuel" (N ENGL J MED 356;11, March 15, 2007), Bioenergy Life Science reports that D-ribose, a simple, five-carbon sugar, is a plausible option for addressing the nation's heart disease epidemic.

"When heart failure develops, many factors are involved, but energy deprivation is among the most important," said John St. Cyr, MD, PhD, the medical director of Bioenergy Life Science. "We've learned recently that patients with heart disease may have a deficient supply of high energy compounds. Past studies have demonstrated that D-ribose supplementation enhances the return of ATP levels with an associated improvement in diastolic function."

D-Ribose, unlike glucose, is a five-carbon sugar important for DNA, RNA, and most importantly, ATP, the "energy currency" of the cells. ATP is crucial in maintaining the integrity and function of every cell, which is necessary for day- to-day health. Ribose is one of the essential components of the ATP molecule.

D-Ribose, as a supplement, has repeatedly shown to improve functional capacity, quality of life, and everyday activities for patients afflicted with congestive heart failure.

Dr. Neubauer's article, "The Failing Heart - An Engine Out of Fuel," calls attention to the important underlying metabolic problem in patients with heart failure. "D-ribose could aid in this metabolic deficiency," said Dr. St. Cyr. "The number of heart failure patients continues to grow every year. By replenishing ATP to an energy-deficient heart we can significantly improve a patient's quality of life."

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