Date:
September 13, 2022 02:05 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Digestion and Aging: Why Betaine HCl is Your friend
We all know that our bodies change as we age. We don't move as fast, we don't heal as quickly, and for many of us, our digestion isn't what it used to be. As we age, our Stomachs produce less acid, which can lead to indigestion, heartburn, and even malnutrition. But there is hope! Taking a Betaine HCl supplement can help improve digestion and even slow the aging process.
What is Betaine HCl?
Betaine hydrochloride, also known as betaine HCl, is a supplement that can be taken to improve digestion. It is naturally found in beets and other foods, but it can also be produced in a laboratory. Betaine HCl increases the level of hydrochloric acid in the Stomach, which helps the body break down food and absorb nutrients.
How Does Betaine HCl Work?
As we age, our Stomachs produce less acid. This can lead to indigestion because the food isn't broken down properly. When we don't digest food properly, we can also suffer from malnutrition because the body isn't able to absorb all of the nutrients from the food. Betaine HCl helps to increase the level of acid in the Stomach so that the food is properly broken down and all of the nutrients are absorbed.
What are the benefits of taking Betaine HCl?
There are many benefits of taking betaine HCl, including:
Improved digestion; Better absorption of nutrients; Relief from heartburn and indigestion; and even a slowed aging process. That's right! Taking betaine HCl has been shown to slow the aging process by improving digestion and absorption of nutrients.
In Summary:
If you're over the age of 50, chances are you've noticed that your digestion isn't what it used to be. You may suffer from heartburn or indigestion after eating certain foods. Or, you may have trouble absorbing all of the nutrients from your food (malabsorption). If this sounds like you, then you may benefit from taking a betaine HCL supplement. Betaine hydrochloride supplements can help improve digestion and even slow the aging process. So if you're looking for a way to improve your digestion and slow the aging process, betaine HCL may be worth trying!
Date:
August 06, 2022 10:37 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: L-Arginine and L-Citrulline: Can They Help Improve Nitric Oxide Levels for Better Heart Health?
Nitric oxide is an important molecule that is produced by the human body. It helps to regulate blood pressure and heart function, and it can also help improve circulation. Recently, there has been a lot of interest in supplements that can increase nitric oxide levels, such as L-arginine and L-citrulline. Lets explore the research on these two supplements and discuss how they may help improve heart health!
What is nitric oxide and what does it do for the body?
Nitric oxide is a gas that is produced by the body and is used in many different processes. One of the most important roles of nitric oxide is to help regulate blood pressure. It does this by relaxing the smooth muscles that line the blood vessels, which allows the vessels to dilate and the blood to flow more easily. Nitric oxide also plays a role in immunity, inflammation, and nerve function. In addition, it has been shown to have anti-cancer properties and to improve exercise performance. Although nitric oxide is produced naturally by the body, it can also be taken as a supplement. Nitric oxide supplements are often used by athletes and bodybuilders to improve their performance and increase muscle mass. However, they can also be beneficial for people who suffer from conditions like high blood pressure and erectile dysfunction.
The benefits of increased nitric oxide levels?
In recent years, researchers have also begun to explore the potential health benefits of increasing nitric oxide levels through supplementation. Some studies have shown that nitric oxide supplements can improve exercise performance and reduce recovery time, as well as provide other cardiovascular benefits. Additionally, nitric oxide has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to its ability to improve exercise performance. While more research is needed to confirm the potential health benefits of increased nitric oxide levels, the current evidence suggests that there may be numerous benefits for active individuals.
The research on L-arginine and L-citrulline supplements?
L-arginine and L-citrulline are two amino acids that have attracted attention for their potential health benefits. L-arginine is involved in the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. L-citrulline, on the other hand, is converted into L-arginine in the body, making it a potentially more efficient way to increase levels of this important compound. Numerous studies have investigated the potential health effects of these supplements, and the results have been mixed. Some studies have found that L-arginine supplements can improve exercise performance and reduce recovery time after exercise, while others have found no benefits. Similarly, some studies have found that L-citrulline supplements can improve blood pressure and heart health.
How to take L-arginine and L-citrulline for best results?
When taking L-arginine and L-citrulline together, it is important to follow the correct dosage in order to achieve the best results. The recommended dosage is 6 grams per day, which can be taken in three doses of 2 grams each. It is best to take these supplements on an empty Stomach, either first thing in the morning or about 30 minutes before working out.
Potential side effects of L-arginine and L-citrulline supplements?
No Side Effects
In Summary:
L-arginine and L-citrulline are two amino acids that have been shown to have potential health benefits. These supplements can improve exercise performance, reduce recovery time, and may also provide other cardiovascular benefits. While more research is needed to confirm the exact benefits of these supplements, the current evidence suggests that they could be beneficial for active individuals. It is important to follow the correct dosage when taking these supplements in order to achieve the best results. Additionally, it is recommended to take them on an empty Stomach for maximum absorption. There are no known side effects associated with taking L-arginine and L-citrulline supplements.
Date:
May 09, 2019 02:20 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Bottoms up! The 5 health benefits of ginger water, a naturalanti-inflammatory drink
In today's health world, the agenda has been hydration, drink more water. While minerals and different things have been added to commercially sold water to enhance flavor, little of it if any helps with health issues. Latest trends have been for people to add their own things, such as whole berries, citrus fruit slices or cucumber. But there is a value to spice, and ginger is gold. Ginger has anti inflammatory properties that can help relieve symptoms of swelling and gout in joints, but so much more. Ginger water can soothe an upset stomach, help balance blood sugars,relieve menstrual cramps, and even help fight off several chronic diseases.
Key Takeaways:
To gain more from the benefits that this spice can give, one should drink plain ginger water because adding artificial sweeteners can result in bloating.
It has been found that consuming ginger can help improve blood sugar. A study found that it helped diabetic patients with their glycemic indices.
Ginger can help patients with chemotherapy because it eases morning sickness and nausea that might be caused by having chemotherapy.
"Ginger is a spice that offers many health benefits and it can be used to enhance the flavor of various dishes."
Date:
November 21, 2018 03:35 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Almonds are good for your heart, brain, AND Stomach
Almonds are an extremely versatile food. They can be added to just about any food. It also provides great benefits for your heart, Stomach, and brain. Almonds can decrease one's heart attack risks. It can also regulate one's blood sugar and improve memory. In addition, ingesting almonds long term can aid healthy gut microbiota and it can help prevent cancer. They can also help a person keep a healthy weight, and almonds can even extend a person's life.
Key Takeaways:
Almonds are beneficial to the heart since they are rich in polyphenols and vitamin E that work as antioxidants and prevent free radicals from accumulating.
Insulin resistance, especially in Type 2 diabetes patients, has been associated with magnesium deficiency
Eating almonds can promote better memory by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain.
"Eating almonds is beneficial for heart, brain, and Stomach health and function."
Date:
November 05, 2018 02:51 PM
Author: VitaNet, LLC Staff
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Acidity : Ways to Minimize Acid Indigestion
Acid is one of those words that many people have a viceral reaction to. It is hard to explain to people why acid would actually be considered healthy for you. Some people simply think acid is bad and any of its uses are not going to be good for you. However, there are some individuals who struggle with acid indigestion. If you have had that, you know how uncomfortable it is. With that being said, there are ways to limit that.
Key Takeaways:
Digestive issues are not usually given much attention and importance in the scheme of things because they are often temporary.
Acidity is related to an unhealthy lifestyle or living an inactive lifestyle.
Some ways to prevent or deal with acidity are to consume food 2-3 hours before going to bed, taking adequate water and avoiding carbonated drinks.
"Acidity causes heartburn, a burning feeling in the chest, stomach, and throat."
Date:
March 17, 2018 10:15 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Green Peas Good for Diabetes? #ABC Diabetes Tips
Green peas have a number of medical health benefits which for one can help fight against cancers in the Stomach, and also have a lot of nutrients that is good for the body. This nutrient rich vegetable is low in fat, loaded with fibre to help against constipation and has antioxidants that can reverse insulin resistance. Carbohydrates present in peas are also natural sugars for the body. This small but very healthy vegetable is great for meals and combining green peas with just a few ingredients can make you a simple but delicious soup.
Date:
October 18, 2017 01:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Inflammation 101 – get smart for good health
First starting off giving a complete discription explaining what inflammation really is. The parts of the body it effects, and some things that can prevoke a reaction. Stating new information to help supside the pain helping live a normal life. After giving a personal Outlook on clean food, she provides a list showing inflammatory foods and other everyday items that we consume to try to avoid and a better alternative suggestions for someone who has inflammation.
Key Takeaways:
Inflammation is a key problem that underlies the start of multiple other health problems that are common as we age
Inflammation starts the breakdown process of Leaky Gut, which happens as a result of inflammation building up, starting in the gut and stomach, which furthermore leads to other health issues
There are many foods that can be avoided and substituted to reduce and prevent inflammation in the body; a prime example is using all natural raw sugar versus other sweeteners
"It is no longer appropriate to allow our dietary habits to contribute to the morbidity and mortality of the majority of humans."
Date:
September 30, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Here's What Happens When You Eat Garlic On An Empty Stomach
Garlic has many important health benefits. We are told to add it to our diets. It can be a natural antibiotic. There are times when you shouldn't eat it, though. It can contribute to heartburn for example. This explains what could happen if you consume it on an exmpty Stomach. This could make you think about garlic differently. You definitely don't want to cut it out but do need to be careful about eating it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kps-55TYLhI&rel=0
Key Takeaways:
When taken on an empty Stomach, this powerful bulb is capable of destroying the bad bacteria in both our small and large intestines.
When consumed, garlic increases the production of a protein that helps in the absorption and release of iron.
Since it helps with these tasks, those who consume natural remedies that contain garlic are less likely to suffer from a lack of iron in the blood.
"Used as an aphrodisiac, garlic is known to increase the libido in both men and women"
Date:
August 30, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cancer-fighting super foods
A diet high in phytonutrients, which are contained in vegetables is recommended to all persons to fight off cancer causing cells. In fact, it is recommended that people eat five to nine full servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. The article says that it recommends six of these fresh foods in particular. What is interesting is that it only mentions five. The ones listed are broccoli, berries, tomatoes, walnuts, and garlic. The list of cancers mentioned that are fought off by these particular fresh foods is an astounding number.
Key Takeaways:
Fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients, which can help fight cancer.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide the best range of cancer-fighting compounds.
Garlic contains phytochemicals, which stop certain cancer cells caused by nitrates in food preservatives.
Date:
August 16, 2017 04:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 6 Unexpected Health Benefits of Activated Charcoal
While most are not aware of the health benefits found in activated charcoal, adherents of the ancient Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda understand the true value of this underrated ingredient. Activated charcoal is excellent at soothing the stomach, as it aids digestive health and can alleviate symptoms of bloating. Activated charcoal also provides benefits to the skin as well. Thanks to its powerful cleansing properties, it can clear up even the most stubborn of breakouts. Adherents of Ayurveda also swear by activated charcoal’s superior teeth whitening potential compared to that of traditional fluoride toothpaste. This versatile ingredient also helps to lower cholesterol, can cure a hangover, and act as a natural filter for your water.
Key Takeaways:
Activated charcoal helps to remove toxins from the body, which makes it an excellent treatment for a bad hangover
People who suffer from high cholesterol could benefit from adding activated charcoal to their diets
For a great natural teeth-whitening treatment, just wet your toothbrush, dip it in activated charcoal powder, and then brush/rinse until clear.
"In other words, activated charcoal can help draw out toxins from your food, water, and body."
Date:
May 27, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Kudzu Root: Beneficial Herb or Just a Hyped Plant Invader?
Originally native to Asia, the kudzu root has had a divided perception in the United States. Used for many years in Chinese medicine, the kudzu has instead been seen as a harmful plant for many Americans. However, further research shows that the kudzu root does indeed has beneficial properties if used the right way. Whether it be fighting disease by reducing inflammation, easing an upset stomach, or even treating alcoholism, the kudzu root has been looked at a bit more favorably on the side of one's health. It is not without its drawbacks, however, as not only is the plant itself seen as a yard pest, but ingesting the root while on birth control can weaken the effects of the birth control and as it slows blood clotting, it could be a danger to those who are already on blood clotting medication. Regardless of the studies that have been shown, it is still clear that more research needs to be completed on kudzu root before a final verdict can be made on whether it is truly beneficial or just another yard pest.
Key Takeaways:
The Chinese cook it in many dishes for both medicinal purposes and flavor, but in the United States, it has a bit of a pesky reputation as an invader that takes over telephone poles, yards and trees.
Kudzu root has been given the honor of helping reduce the painful effects of a hangover, though it seems that if overused, it could be more harmful than good.
The Preventative Medicine Center (PMC) suggests kudzu as a remedy for an upset stomach caused by digestive issues.
"The Preventative Medicine Center (PMC) suggests kudzu as a remedy for an upset stomach caused by digestive issues."
Date:
May 11, 2017 08:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hot peppers and weed work on the gut to tamp down inflammation
Research has found that peppers can effect neurons in the gastrointestinal tract in a similar manner neurons are effected in the brain when marijuana is smoked. When hot chili peppers are consumed, a reaction happens creating the chemical anadamide. In essence this chemical is related to one found in canabis and regulates the immune system in the gut. This research concludes that connection between brain and gastrointestinal systems strong and that eating hot chili peppers and the use of marijuana could have positive effects on gastrointestinal disease.
Key Takeaways:
Hot peppers and weed have a variety of health benefits to the body.
If one eats peppers or consumes marijuana, it help those those who have diabetes.
The stomach, when in contact with hot peppers and weed, helps the gut immune system.
"This chemical works to regulate the gut immune system and bring it into balance, and is also related to the cannabinoids found in marijuana."
Date:
May 10, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Eating This for Breakfast Every Morning HELP YOU LOSE WEIGHT FASTER THAN YOU EXPECT!!
Eating breakfast every day gives you energy and accelerates you metabolism for the day to come. A study done on men and women was done with some eating oatmeal, while others ate cornflakes or just drank water. Findings showed that eating oatmeal for breakfast have long lasting effects on cravings for more food and maintaining healthy, steady glucose levels resulting in taking in fewer calories during the day. Oats provide fiber which can keep you full, help digestion and lower your cholesterol. Oatmeal also fight heart diseases and various cancers, it's the best breakfast food you can eat.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yyqws8dTKGM&rel=0
Key Takeaways:
If you are trying to lose extra weight, you should never skip the breakfast, as that will simply boost the unhealthy cravings during the rest of the day.
Oatmeal stays longer in the Stomach, while cornflakes raise blood glucose levels, and then the individual experiences a sudden drop in sugar.
Numerous studies have confirmed the same findings, and it has been found that oatmeal for breakfast helps weight loss and reduces the calorie intake by 31-50%, and its effects are long- lasting.
"The most important meal of the day is undoubtedly the breakfast, so you should always make sure it is healthy and nutritious. This meal provides the needed energy for the day and accelerates the metabolism."
Date:
May 05, 2017 08:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 6 digestive problems that can affect your weight
Although most digestive problems cause weight loss, there are some conditions that cause weight gain. The pain from acid reflux and ulcers are relieved by eating more, medication can help soothe the stomach, acid causing medicines should be reduced. Constipation can cause a temporary, not actual weight gain from not voiding, high fiber foods and water can alleviate thus. Bad bacterial overgrowth in the gut can be caused by medicines and diet, slows down intestinal function retaining weight, probiotics help. IBS and more seriously, Crohn's disease can cause bloat, constipation and medical treatments like steroids, cause weight gain. It's important to be carefully monitored and treated by your doctor if you have these conditions.
Key Takeaways:
If you aren't losing weight, sometimes it can be a sign of a bigger digestive problem instead of just diet issues.
Some issues like acid reflux, constipation, and IBS can be fixed at home with suppliments, vitamins, and a different diet.
Bigger problems like ulcers, bacteria overgrowth, and Crohns can be treated by doctors to solve the problem.
"Gastrointestinal and digestive issues can definitely have a large effect on the way we eat and how our bodies absorb and digest foods, causing us to gain or lose weight, says Dr Kenneth Brown, a gastroenterologist."
Date:
May 04, 2017 06:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Anxiety Is A Superpower (Here Is Why)
Having a panic attack can be uncomfortable; the sweaty palms, racing heart, inability to breath, queasy feeling in your stomach, it can take its toll on even the most resilient person and make them hate their anxiety. But it's not all bad! Studies have shown that individuals that suffer from anxiety excel at an array of other attributes. Those with anxiety, for example, have proven to be stronger readers with improved memory functions. Physically, individuals who suffer from anxiety are able to perform better in physical sports as well as become more aptly in tune with their senses. And cognitively, those that suffer from anxiety have demonstrated more creativity than those without it. While it may be a natural instinct to hate your anxiety, next time it rears its ugly head try to take a deep breath and remind yourself of the amazing person it has helped you become.
Date:
April 29, 2017 02:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: TWO CUPS OF THIS DRINK DAILY AND THESE 9 EXERCISES IS ALL YOU NEED TO GET A FLAT Stomach!!
So many people want to flatten their Stomach, but soon find that it is harder than they ever imagined it could be. It is true that it is difficult to lose fat from the Stomach, but it is not impossible. If you know the right remedy, you can get a flat Stomach that you love in no time. This drink and exercises are all that you need to make great strides in your desire for a flat Stomach.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=665qdTOzvgg&rel=0
Key Takeaways:
Orange juice, honey and apple cider mixed in a drink can help reduce belly fat.
Apple Cider helps digestion and reduces the time fat stays in your Stomach.
Research show half a grapefruit consumed before meals help reduce weight gain.
"A flat Stomach is everyone’s desire, and it is not simple to achieve, as you need to exercise regularly, but you should also change the food you consume. Today, we are going to reveal the recipe of a remedy which will burn the abdominal fat accumulated in the abdominal area, and prevent gain weight again. It cleanses the body from all harmful toxins and waste, removes retained fluids, and boosts the function of the brain."
Date:
April 25, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Never Ignore These Warning SIGNS OF VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY!
Your body needs Vitamin B12, and you can believe that there will be many signs that tell you when there isn't enough of the substance in your body. You should be aware of the signs, and what to do if you experience them because Vitamin B12 deficiency can be very serious. You should pay special attention to these signs that are indicative of a very serious deficiency that requires help from a medical professional quickly.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_x2KbaMeZM&rel=0
Key Takeaways:
The B12 vitamin is found in meat, dairy, eggs, and shellfish.
Some symptoms of B12 deficiency are fatigue, dizziness, forgetfulness, pins and needles, and muscle weakness.
B12 affects the red blood cells and as a result oxygen is slow getting to the organs.
"The most common causes include reduced intake, the use of certain medications, genetics, malnutrition, poor absorption from the Stomach or intestines, chronic inflation of the Stomach, intestinal parasites, and more."
Date:
April 19, 2017 03:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 6 Things I Learned About Ulcers
Are you keen on ulcers? Many people are not, and that is a mistake that could very well be costly. An ulcer is a health concern that you shouldn't play around with. It can cause a great deal of pain, but that is just the first of many concerns. There are so many things to learn about ulcers, but the six facts listed here are among the most important that everyone out there should know.
Key Takeaways:
In 1980s people thought stomach ulcers were related to stress and food; however, truthfully, it was related to Helicobacter pylori. It went to winning a Nobel Prize.
Certain foods may cause indigestion and heartburns with people that suffer from stomach ulcers. Sometimes it is hard for people to know what to eat.
People that eat less will make ulcer pains worse because without any food in the stomach, the ulcer is being covered by stomach ulcer all the time.
"My ulcer turned out to be “idiopathic,” which is a fancy way of saying that doctors have no idea why it happened."
Date:
March 17, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How To Cure Obesity | Natural Remedies For Obesity
Would you believe that more than 1/3 of all adults in the US suffer from obesity? With this condition comes an influx of health concerns and problems, from an increased risk of heart disease to breathing problems like COPD. But now, if you are one of the people suffering from obesity, you can fight back. There are many natural remedies that may very well help you lose weight and reduce the problems that come with obesity. What can you do?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6cjESSiyJuM&rel=0
Key Takeaways:
Some foods, such as lemon and garlic, are said to encourage the body to get rid of fat.
Chewing on a garlic clove then following up with a glass of water, mixed with lemon juice, in the am. on an empty Stomach, should help eliminate belly fat.
The process should continue daily for about a month to achieve best results.
"There are many ways for obesity to be treated naturally, you do not have to turn to drugs or surgeries."
Date:
March 02, 2017 10:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Obesity could triple your risk of Stomach cancer later in life
A new report looking at what causes Stomach cancer found three new somewhat surprising links: alcohol, processed meat and obesity. All three are linked with several other cancers, including colon cancer and breast cancer, but this is the first time they've been associated with Stomach cancer. The report also finds more typical causes: smoking, eating food preserved with salt, and infection with a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori.
Key Takeaways:
OVERWEIGHT PEOPLE IN their twenties who then become obese later in life could be three times more likely to develop cancer of the esophagus or upper Stomach, according to a study published Wednesday in the British Journal of Cancer.
“This study highlights how weight gain over the course of our lives can increase the risk of developing these two cancer types, both of which have extremely poor survival,” Dr. Jessica Petrick, the study’s leader, said.
Excess weight can lead to long-term reflux problems and heartburn that can eventually lead to cancer, according to Petrick.
"Those who gained more than 45 pounds also faced twice the risk of developing esophageal cancer, compared to those who maintained a healthy weight."
Date:
March 02, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Why anti-inflammatory eating is the next big thing
It is becoming increasingly clear that chronic inflammation is the root cause of many serious illnesses – including heart disease, many cancers, and Alzheimer’s disease. We all know inflammation on the surface of the body as local redness, heat, swelling and pain. It is the cornerstone of the body’s healing response, bringing more nourishment and more immune activity to a site of injury or infection. But when inflammation persists or serves no purpose, it damages the body and causes illness. Stress, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition, and exposure to toxins.
Key Takeaways:
The new eating fad is the anti-inflammatory diet. Gisele has a flat Stomach, follow this diet and way of life. So if you want to be like Gisele start eating the anti-inflammatory diet.
This is a strict diet and some staple vegetables are prohibited.
The diet seems like it is here to stay. People are busy and stressed and this diet seems to help balance things our for them.
"Said to support everything from a balanced microbiome and strong bones to helping fight cancer, the anti-inflammatory diet is not only proven to be powerful medically, but mimics much of the same clean-eating philosophy."
Date:
January 03, 2017 11:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 5 weird and unusual signs you are way too stressed
All of us have probably dealt with some level of stress throughout our lives. From acne to jaw pain to an upset Stomach, we have all most likely felt one of these symptoms. Check out this article for a few signs that your stress is getting to you and ways to decrease your stress levels.
Key Takeaways:
According to a study published in the Industrial Psychiatry Journal if you are stressed out, you are at a higher risk of periodontal disease.
A study published in the journal Acta Dermato Venereologica concluded that stress can increase inflammation which can lead to breakouts and acne.
Stress and anxiety can also cause Stomach ache suggests a study published in the journal Mental Health in Family Medicine.
"According to a study published in the Industrial Psychiatry Journal if you are stressed out, you are at a higher risk of periodontal disease like bleeding gums."
Date:
December 18, 2016 08:11 PM
Author: Darrell Miller Subject: 4 Main Health Benefits Of Grapefruit
Grapefruits are fruits loved by many. Most people prefer eating this fruit mainly because they're rich in vitamin C. Besides that, grateful also has a number of health benefits that you should probably know about. This fruit is found in 3 different pulps; white, red or pink pulps. But nevertheless, they still offer similar benefits. I'm going to show you some of the most unexpected health benefits of grapefruits that you probably need to be aware of.
Benefits of Grapefruit
Boosts metabolism
Grapefruit is a good remedy for those who want to shed some weight. A high metabolism is good because it will help you burn down excessive fat in your body even when you're resting. Eating grapefruit before meal can tremendously help you lose some weight. This is because grapefruits have a high amount of enzymes and less sodium which helps to burn excessive fat easily.
Reduces the risk of having kidney stones
According to reports, grapefruits reduce the risk of having kidney stones. Naringenin is a natural compound that regulates protein a called PKD2 which is responsible for the prevention of kidney cysts. The antioxidant effects will also prevent the kidneys from swelling which is mainly caused by fluid retention.
Strengthen the immune system
Typically, any fruit that is rich in vitamin C will support and strengthen the immune system. This vitamin also works in conjunction with other micronutrients in order to provide the body with good nourishment. Having high levels of the vitamin will help reduce cold symptoms. This will make it easier to control allergies since vitamin C reduces histamine levels.
Protects against cancer
Grapefruits have also been linked to reducing the chances of getting certain cancers. Recent studies have discovered that the fruit can help repair/restore damaged DNA found in prostate cancer cells. The natural compound called naringenin stimulates repair of DNA in the cancer cells and will prevent your body from cancer. Grapefruits have been linked to reducing the risk of cancer like breast cancer, cancer of the Stomach, colon, esophagus as well as bladder.
Date:
December 05, 2016 04:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The foods to eat to help certain parts of your body
In the Middle Ages, there was a practice called “the doctrine of signatures.” The idea was that food items that looked like certain body organs would help those organs. While there is no science behind this, there are certain foods that follow this pattern. Some such foods are walnuts, tomatoes, ginger, and celery, which help your brain, heart, Stomach, and bones, respectively.
Key Takeaways:
Carrots for your eyes This veg gets its colour from high levels of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A, helping retina function.
Walnuts for your brain Think of this: loaded with omega-3s, protein and melatonin, walnuts are quite literally brain food.
Tomatoes for your heart Rich in lycopene and potassium, tomatoes help reduce bad cholesterol lower high blood pressure.
"Walnuts for your brain Think of this: loaded with omega-3s, protein and melatonin, walnuts are quite literally brain food."
Date:
November 17, 2016 05:41 PM
Author: Darrell Miller Subject: Ginger root: a homemade remedy for Stomach pain and nausea
A fragrant homemade remedy for an upset Stomach is ginger. There are several properties that make ginger root a Stomach pain soother. Researches have shown that ginger root has proved effective in getting rid of nausea while pregnancy. It is more effective than any anti inflammatory drug. Ginger root can alleviate the pain and discomfort in your abdomen in many ways. One gram of ginger taken in the form of tea, ale, salad, juice or soup is as efficacious as the anti-nausea drug, dimenhydrinate because it has lesser side effects. Ginger root is a better cure for nausea than vitamin B6. Ginger has reduced nausea due to chemotherapy in many cases.
The healing spice, ginger has anti-inflammatory properties which helps it in increasing the digestive juices, neutralizing the Stomach, thus soothing the Stomach pain. Ginger helps in the secretion of some digestive juices and enzymes that neutralize the Stomach. The root of ginger contains two chemicals: gingerols and shogaols. These are antioxidants that reduce the free radical production, thus protecting the body from them.
When we use ginger root to treat Stomach pain, these two chemicals soothe the intestinal tract, in order to prevent motion sickness and relieve the person from vomiting, Stomach cramps, diarrhea and nausea. As the intestinal tract gets relaxed, the person is instantly relieved of pain. It causes elimination of any extra gas from the intestinal tract. Ginger root help in the quick flow of food in the Stomach through the digestive tract by facilitating better absorption of nutrients. It aids in the production of bile, saliva and other gastric juices for better digestion and prevention of gas. The muscles are relaxed because of the phenols present in ginger root, that act like a sedative. Any over activity of Stomach is prevented. The Stomach cramps are prevented because ginger reduces the food from backing up in the digestive system. These phenols also help in quick movement of food and toxins in intestine and digestive system. Besides, ginger root helps in improving blood circulation and decreasing inflammation.
Date:
November 14, 2016 10:20 PM
Author: Darrell Miller Subject: The Health Benefits of Grape Seed Extract
Grape seed extract is most commonly a waste product produced by the grape juice and winery industry. This is because grape seed extract doesn't go into finished drinks. Grape seed contains a wide variety of health-enhancing ingredients like protein, carbohydrates and lipids (healthy fats).
Immune system
A study done on healthy volunteers found that grape seed considerably increased the levels of antioxidants in the blood. So, another one of the benefits of grape seed is it helps boosts the immune system to fight against harmful compounds which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases including breast, Stomach, colon, prostate and lung cancer.
Vascular Endothelial Health
Grape seed extracts have been tied to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases partly due to the long association of grape wines with low prevalence of heart diseases among the French. Besides, there is a growing literature devoted to the health potential of grape seed concerning their positive effects on vascular endothelial growth factor, a type of protein that signals the development of new healthy blood vessels and improves the circulation of oxygen to tissues that suffer oxygen deprivation.
High Blood Pressure
Due to its antioxidant activity that may protect the blood vessels, grape seed extract could theoretically benefit people with high blood pressure. The UMMC points out that study in animals indicate that it's useful for this purpose. However, there are no human studies that have looked at grape seed extract's effect on hypertension.
High Cholesterol
The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that one study suggests that grape seed, when taken with chromium, may lower "bad" blood cholesterol. The UMMC describes grape seed extract's effects on blood cholesterol as "promising"; however, more research is needed to see if grape seed is beneficial for this purpose.
Pancreas
In one study, patients with chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), grape seed extract showed promise. It appeared to significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea. This occurred even after conventional medications failed to help. These results are very preliminary and further studies will be needed to confirm these findings.
Date:
July 29, 2016 04:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller Subject: Did you know there is a natural remedy to stop heartburn in its tracts?
Acid reflux plague's thousands of individuals each day in the U.S.A. Many of which take over the counter and prescription anti-acid drugs. Doing this is not without side effects, these drugs can cause all sorts of health issues even kidney failure. Fortunately, there is an alternative that can help.
Acid reflux is a sign of an imbalance in the digestive tract. Put it simply, your body is not able to detect the acid that is setting in your Stomach from the last time you ate something. If Stomach acid is not released from the Stomach after your food has been digested, you will experience heart burn. Doctors tell you that taking a drug to reduce Stomach acid will solve your problem, but the opposite is actually the case. Since your body does not detect the acid present in your Stomach, you need to add more acid. Anti-acids actually prolong and compound the issue with deadly side effects.
Taking a simple inexpensive supplement called HCL with pepsin, one can successfully eliminate heart burn with zero side effects. If you suffer from heart burn, taking one or two pills of Hcl with each meal will solve your problem.
Adding a probiotic and soluble fiber to your diet can help restore balance to your digestive tract and eventually eliminate any recurrences.
Stop taking dangerous anti-acid drugs and start your self on the path to true healing with natural remedies such as Hcl with Pepsin.
Date:
October 20, 2015 06:21 AM
Author: Darrell Miller Subject: Importance of Phospholipids and Peptides found in Fish oil
The demand for fish in the world keeps on increasing as a result of health advantages associated with fish oil. Fish oil is the oil extracted from the tissues of the oily fish, and this oil is known to have some benefits and one of them being the reduction of inflammation in the body. Although fish oil doesn’t contain the omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil supplements contain these acids that are essential in the body.
Peptides found in fish oil are organic compounds that are groups of amino acids. The peptides have various medicinal benefits that include the following.
The fish peptides found in fish oil help reduce vasoconstriction that gets defined as the narrowing of one’s blood vessels as a result of contraction of the muscular wall. These fish peptides also help to reduce the thickness of the inner walls of the blood vessels that will affect blood circulation. Lastly, fish peptides found in fish oil always inhibit the aggregation of blood.
Fish peptides work in various ways. In their circulatory pressure function, the peptides inhibit the angiotensin converting enzyme. When the formation of angiotensin II gets inhibited, fish peptides help relax arteries and reduce fluid volume hence improving circulation.
When one combines fish oil together with fish peptides, it provides higher cardio-protective advantages than using pure fish oil.
The advantages of the fish oil supplement like krill oil revolve around their natural composition. It’s bioavailable as it has omega-3 fatty acids always attached to phospholipids. It, therefore, makes the supplement more effective and enables the body in absorbing more omega-3. The krill oil that contain phospholipids has several advantages. It always promotes one’s cardiovascular health. The main omega-3 fats include EPA and DHA that help to combat inflammation mainly in the blood vessels. In a way, it also helps to lower blood pressure and to some extent prevent strokes and heart attacks.
When taken in large quantity during pregnancy, the omega-3 found in these supplements helps a lot in improving neurological development in the newborns. They will help in the child’s development of the eyes, central nervous system and the brain.
The phospholipids that contain omega-3 fatty acids are said to be water dispersible. As a result, this makes them gentler on one’s Stomach, hence, the body absorbs them more easily. These phospholipids are also natural and important parts of the cells compared to other marine oil omega-3s.
They help in both the heart and brain health. As a result of proper blood circulation, it ensures that oxygen is also well supplied within the body. They also have the advantages of a healthy inflammation and play a major role in women’s health. Lastly, phospholipids are safe for taking into the body as they are natural supplements.
Phospholipids are absorbed into the body at a faster rate compared to triglycerides found in fish oil. They have a superior absorption rate, and they are more effective in the body. The other reason you should go for phospholipids is that they aren’t chemically altered and are therefore safe for consumption.
In conclusion, the benefits of peptides found in the fish oil and phospholipids include protection of one’s brain from oxidative damage, improve focus as well as mental agility and reduce any depression symptoms. They also strengthen the blood vessels and the arteries.
Date:
February 14, 2014 10:23 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The health benefits of citronella oil
What is citronella
Citronella is a grass that is grown in Asian countries as well as islands in the South Pacific and has a rich and crisp aroma. Citronella essential oil is extracted from the Ceylon and Java variety of the grass. This oil is known to have so many benefits and these include:
Insect repellant
Citronella oil is effective in repelling insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and black flies and thus prevents its bites. The oil can be used on human and their clothing in form of liquid, oil or patch. This makes it a natural and non-toxic alternative to chemical insect repellants. It is also available in products like insect repelling candles and cartridges.
Astringent
If used well, citronella oil can help with oily skin as it is an astringent. You should apply a drop or two on the skin to test if it will cause irritation. You should then apply 2 to 3 drops of the oil to a cotton ball and wipe out any excess sweat. You should then complete your regular facial routine.
Antibacterial
Citronella oil contains methyl isoeugenol that help in its antibacterial property. The oil can kill and even inhibit the growth of bacteria in the body. Therefore, the oil can be helpful in treating wound infections, as well as other infections in the urinary bladder, urethra, colon, Stomach, urinary track, intestines, prostate and kidney.
Anti-inflammatory
Citronella oil can be helpful in sedating inflammation. This is particularly so in issues pertaining to the Stomach, liver, intestines and other parts of the digestive system. The oil can be used to soothe inflammation caused by drug and alcohol use.
Deodorant
Citronella essential oil has a crisp and rich lemon aroma that is effective in driving away body odors. Therefore, it is used for body sprays and deodorants but in very small quantities as it can cause skin irritations if used in high quantities.
Date:
December 27, 2012 01:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Melatonin Overdose
Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant/hormone secreted by a small endocrine gland in the human brain. The hormone is responsible for sleep-wake cycle modulation and fine tuning of your body's "internal clock". In other words: when it gets dark, your pineal gland increases melatonin production, which induces drowsiness and makes you sleepy. When light conditions change (e.g. daytime), your body decreases melatonin production. If you expose yourself to an intense source of light during the night, or keep spending time in a dark environment during the day, you can confuse your body and disrupt melatonin production.
The hormone was also observed to affect the production and the discharge rate of female sex hormones.
As one gets older, his pineal gland produces less and less melatonin, which leads to a conclusion that melatonin is age dependent (children have the highest concentration of melatonin). The fact that our body produces melatonin to "sedate" itself when the sun goes down, implied that the hormone could be used to help people suffering from sleeping disorders, desynchronosis (jet lag) or similar conditions.
This served as a basis to study and use positive health effects of the hormone. Melatonin is not a miracle-cure, but it CAN improve the sleep quality of insomniacs, women in menopause, benzodiazepine (valium) withdrawal patients and people who suffer from ADHD. Melatonin also improves the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents in breast cancer treatments and increases the chance of survival in prostate cancer patients.
If you are a healthy middle-aged person, your body will produce between 5-25 micrograms of melatonin per night (80 times less than a single melatonin capsule). This is a good indicator of recommended dosage. In fact, you should start with 0.1 - 03 mg per night, an hour before bedtime. If that doesn't help, you may increase the dosage up to 10mg a day. However, do not exceed 10 mg per night before consulting your doctor, as that may cause an overdose.
Anything above 10 mg is risky without a professional guidance . If you consider the fact that you can overdose even with a sufficient amount of vitamins, melatonin is not an exception, and should be used with caution. Typical overdose symptoms include drowsiness, upset Stomach, headache, confusion, lethargy, psychotic thinking, tremors, seizures and liver issues. If you experience multiple symptoms at the same time, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible.
Date:
November 23, 2012 01:25 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Benefits of White Tea!!
White tea is a special variety of lightly oxidized tea which has undergone very little processing. It is originally native to China and in recent times it has been cultivated in Nepal, Thailand and Taiwan. White tea has been popular in China for over a thousand years and was the preferred drink of the rich elite of the nation. It came into prominence during the reign of the Soong dynasty. It was considered precious and was presented as tribute to the Emperor.
According to legend Emperor Hui Zong lost most of his kingdom in his pursuit for the perfect white tea. White tea is an integral part of Chinese history and was a part of many of their traditional ceremonies. The rest of the world has only recently adopted this exotic beverage.
How Is It Produced?
White tea is derived from the Cammelia senensis plant and takes lot of time and effort to produce properly. The leaves and buds of the plant are carefully steamed and subsequently dried. It is not processed or rolled extensively like black or green tea. This makes white tea lightly oxidized and this unprocessed quality may be the reason for its numerous health benefits. We look at some of the health benefits associated with white tea.
An Antioxidant And More!
White tea contains antioxidants which help in protecting the body from harmful free radicals. These free radicals accelerate aging and damage DNA. White tea has substances which are effective against malignant cells and can help treat Stomach, colon and prostate cancers. Flavonoids are a special variety of antioxidants which restrict the growth and development of cancerous cells. White tea has been shown to help in lowering blood pressure and promoting arterial functioning. It causes a reduction in the consistency of the blood and promotes smooth blood circulation. It protects against stroke by promoting a healthy circulatory system.
Active Ingredient Catechins:
Catechins are another group of antioxidants, which can help regulate cholesterol levels in the body. These antioxidants reduce bad cholesterol and prevent the arteries from hardening. White tea drinkers are reported to have greater strength and bone density. Also drinking white tea has shown positive effects for people suffering from bone related disorders like osteoporosis and arthritis.
This tea provides natural defensive against viruses and bacteria. It is conducive for the health of the immune system and provides protection against a variety of immune disorders. White tea contains small amounts of fluoride compounds which help keep your teeth healthy and clean. It eliminates the bacteria responsible for bad breath, tooth decay and plaque. It removes free radicals from the tissue and reverses the effects of weather, stress and poor dietary preferences to give you healthy glowing skin. White tea has many other health benefits to offer.
Its consumption is linked to increase in metabolism, weight loss and reduction in the symptoms associated with type-2 diabetes. White tea is a natural product free from excessive processing and harmful chemicals. It offers many health benefits and does not cause any harmful side effects. It is slowly gaining popularity as a health supplement among the global population.
Date:
June 29, 2012 01:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Ginger And Its Use To Help In Stomach Upset
Ginger Root
Ginger is the root of an herbal plant that is usually consumed as medicine or used in food as a spice to help in digestion system in your Stomach. The rhizomes are usually very juicy, fleshy and with mild taste when young. These can be pickled in vinegar as a snack or sometimes be cooked as an ingredient in a variety of food. It can also be added to boiling water to come up with ginger flavored tea. The same is also used to make candy. When it matures, it appears dry and its juice is extremely potent. It is still used as a spice in most foods. The uses are unlimited but in this article, we are going to discuss how it helps with Stomach upset.
History of Ginger
Throughout history, ginger has been used for Stomach upset in many places around the world. After a very heavy feast, ancient Romans would consume it to help soothe their full Stomachs. Chinese and other ancient mariners used it to sustain seasickness. Indians used it as a universal medicine as they believed it treated everything.
Current Uses of the herb
Currently, research has shown that ginger truly does help ease an upset Stomach. There are many ways through which it can be used to relieve an upset Stomach. A good example is by taking it before meals. It enhances a good environment for digestion before the food gets to the Stomach. This will ensure that digestion kicks off immediately after the food is consumed and hence prevents Stomach upset. People with motion sickness can take ginger to help suppress the symptoms.
How it works
Ginger has two component; gingerol and shogaol. These are the components that enhance the function of digestive juices like saliva, bile and other gastric secretions. When these juices are stimulated to work efficiently, they enhance digestion in an individual starting from as early as when the food is still in the mouth. This ensures that all digestion steps are undergone effectively without skipping. When whole and dry food get to the Stomach, it becomes hard to digest as the Stomach has no teeth to help break it down and lubricate it for swift movement. Ginger is also known to help the Stomach muscles in effective movement of food. If the tract muscles do not give enough room for movement, indigestion may occur. That is what leads to nausea in an individual. The herb curbs the serotonin receptors to ensure there is no vomit message sent to the brain. Ginger also helps in the immediate emptying of the Stomach contents to the small intestine.
Conclusion
Ginger works to help reduce Stomach upset which can arise as a result of operation, overeating, sea and motion sickness. The effectiveness of this medicinal herb should not be undermined as it has helped many to get the desired relief from the uncomfortable feeling of Stomach upset. Use it when you feel nauseas or even to help relieve you of gas from the Stomach.
Date:
April 10, 2012 06:57 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Are the Health Benefits Of Collagen Tablets?
Collagen
Collagen is one of the most important components involved in the formation of your body's ligaments, tendons, cartilage and muscles. As you get older, your body's ability to manufacture the required amount of collagen becomes lesser. Collagen tablets covers up for it by helping maintain the repair process. These tablets also have different benefits that you should consider and these benefits re given below:
Improves blood circulation: this happens because collagen tablets improve the elasticity of blood vessels, making them stronger and this improved blood flow.
It enhances healing of injuries: when our bodies cannot provide sufficient nutrients required to repair the body tissues, these tablets compensate for the loss. The structure of the bones, cartilages and other parts are also strengthened by this. It encourages the regeneration of muscle mass making recovery after sport related injuries faster.
Keep Arthritis pains at bay: the disease associated with joint inflammation and painful mobility around the areas is referred to as Arthritis. Collagen tablets work at reducing this pain making movement around the joints more comfortable.
Reduces the appearance of cellulite: when fatty tissues find way to the upper layers of the skin, dimples often occur. This is referred to as Cellulite. These tablets reduce this occurrence by rebuilding the destroyed fibres that allow cellulite to appear.
Helps in reducing wrinkles: when our bodies no longer produce collagen, certain lines form on the places that move most, like our foreheads and joints. This is referred to as wrinkles. The tablets work by increasing the suppleness of the skin.
Improves the hair structure: these tablets fight free radicals which often affect the texture and growth of our hair. Replacing this component in the shaft of your hair will give your hair better appearance.
It is advisable to start taking these tablets from as early as thirty years as this will prevent the onset of the above conditions. It also makes your skin look younger by preventing wrinkles. One should use these tablets because its absorption occurs naturally through the blood stream, making it possible for your body to decide its destination. If you are an athlete, this is just the thing for you as it facilitates the healing of wounds making it possible for you to be back on the field within a short time. The tablets can help soften your stiff joints if you find it hard to exercise because of that. If acne is your problem, then you won't have to worry, because this drug works with your skin's keratin to produce the best results ever. It is also said to have an effect in weight loss.
One thing that you should note is that collagen tablet works best on an empty Stomach, so for the best results, take it early in the morning or before meals. These tablets are cheap and easy to find. They contribute greatly to your health and overall appearance. Now that you know, take that short trip to the nearest chemist and take control of your future life! Collagen tablets are a good way to start.
Date:
February 16, 2012 11:04 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Calcium D-Glucarate And Estrogen And Your Health
Calcium D-Glucarate
Calcium D-Glucarate is a nutrient found in many vegetables and fruits. It is believed that it helps in eliminating the harmful substances from the body and it also helps in lowering the high levels of hormones which includes estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. These effects of the Calcium d-Glucarate protect the body from developing certain types of cancers. Calcium D-Glucarate is found in broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, oranges, apples and grapefruits. Small quantities of this nutrient are naturally made by the human body.
Human body carries many toxins that it absorbs from air, food and water. These harmful substances are flushed out of the body by the detoxification process, before it becomes harmful to the body. The body detoxifies itself by conjugation and glucuronidation. The Calcium D-Glucarate helps the body to eliminate toxins and this process is called conjugation. When the D-Glucarate comes in contact with the acidic environment in the Stomach, it metabolizes to form an acid called D-glucaric acid and this further metabolizes in the digestive tract into other compounds. The detoxification that takes place with the help of Calcium D-Glucarate is called Glucuronidation. During this process the substance that binds with the toxin is called glucuronic acid.
These are processes which occur when the carcinogens, harmful toxins and used hormones are combined with water soluble substances in the liver which helps them to be removed easily from the body. Beta-glucuronidase, an enzyme, breaks the bond between the toxins and the used hormones and helps them to re-circulate into the blood. But Calcium D-Glucarate inhibits this beta-glucuronidase enzyme and supports the vital process of the liver in flushing out the used hormones and toxins. Thus Calcium D-Glucarate acts to block the re-absorption of estrogen and this makes this nutrient a useful estrogen buster.
Toxin Flush
Calcium D-Glucarate helps the body to flush out used hormones like estrogen, even before they can be reabsorbed into the blood. Higher levels of estrogen are the reason for many types of cancer, the major being breast cancer. D-Glucarate has a role in controlling cancers of the colon, breast and the reproductive organs, as they detoxify carcinogens present in the lungs, breast, liver, colon and skin. It also helps in lowering of the lipid cholesterol levels; serum cholesterol is reduced by 12%, LDL-cholesterol by 28% and triglycerides by 43%.
Decrease Estrogen
The harmful toxic substances that the body is exposed to, can increase the level of circulating estrogen, in both men and women. This increased level of estrogen disrupts the hormonal balance of the body. So this excess estrogen is metabolized and broken down to be flushed out from the body. Excess of estrogen can cause a condition called 'estrogen dominance,' which causes hormone related disorders in the body. So it is necessary to reduce the estrogen level to save the body from the risk of Fibromyalgia, Uterine fibroid tumors, fibrocystic breasts, Endometriosis and premenstrual syndrome.
Estrogen is an essential hormone present in the body but too much of it can cause cellular disruptions. As it is difficult to avoid estrogenic chemicals found in the environment, it becomes necessary to improve the body's natural ability to flush out the excess hormones and harmful toxins. Calcium D-Glucarate helps in this natural removal of excess hormones and harmful toxins.
Date:
August 30, 2011 10:00 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How to Remove Excess Estrogen Naturally From the Body?
Estrogen is an important reproductive hormone in the body that helps maintain female traits as well as reproductive organs and functions. Estrogen is found in both men and women but is predominantly found on women and lesser in men. Although estrogen is natural, excess amounts prove to be problematic and frequently does have its negative effects on men as well as women.
Research shows that excess estrogen may be the reason of excess fat in our body. It seems that no matter what we do, it just won’t come off and seems to be resistant from diet and exercise. Stubborn fat, as what others call it. Excess estrogen leads to larger deposits of adipose tissue or fat tissues in the body. For men, the problematic areas are the chest and Stomach, which also leads to formation of firm breast tissues, a condition called gynecomastia. The Stomach, upper thighs, lower buttocks and the back of the upper arms are the problematic areas for women.
In women, excessive amount of estrogen seems to pose health concerns too. Most women complain of hot flashes and unpredictable bleeding during menstrual cycle, aside from the irrational feeling it creates. Increased level of the less favorable type of estrogen in the body are also believed to contribute to higher risk of certain types cancers such as breast cancer. Lifestyle and diet modification contribute greatly to lowering the excess level of estrogen in the body.
Proper diet significantly can help in restoring the estrogen level in one’s body back to normal. Adding more soy – based products in the diet or supplements of the like can effectively lower the amount of estrogen in the body. Phytoestrogens, predominantly genistein and daidzein are found in soy products which can help to naturally get rid of excess natural estrogen in the body. Also, add more fiber in your diet. Fiber helps in removing excess estrogen by binding, and thus removing excess hormones. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains pack a lot of fiber. Western diet also shows an imbalance of omega-3/omega-6 fatty acids, in which omega-6 is predominantly abundant, which provides too much estrogen producing chemicals. So, increased intake of fish, which is high in omega-3, can help in reducing estrogen levels. Sugar also raises estrogen levels and also negatively affects your body in many other ways. So cut down on sugar. Also, reduce alcohol intake since breast cancer is higher in people who have higher intake of alcohol due to the increase of hormones it causes.
Regular and proper exercise can also help in lowering estrogen levels in the body. Regular exercise releases endorphins, a natural hormone which helps to regulate estrogen-to-testosterone-balance. Getting enough sleep is also another efficient way. Estrogen levels are also affected by one’s sleep cycle. The ability of your body to redress hormone levels in the body is greatly affected when you get enough sleep.
There is also a home test kit available that determines the level of estrogen in your body. A urine sample is required and then is sent to a medical laboratory. Customized supplements can be recommended if it is determined that your estrogen levels are too high.
Date:
May 09, 2011 11:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Lycopene Help with Prostate Problems
Lycopene and The Prostate.
Lycopene is an organic compound often associated with tomatoes. It is almost always touted to prevent prostate cancer, though the scientific community has not come to a conclusion yet. Scientists are nevertheless positive that it is good for the prostate, for it displays antiproliferative effects on prostate cells. Laboratory studies are very promising as it appears to inhibitory effect on tumor growth.
Prostate health has long been tied to consumptions of foods rich in lycopene. It is a carotenoid that is bright red in color, and as such can easily be obtained from brightly colored plant products, such as watermelon, papaya, pink guava, and apricots in addition to tomatoes. Like other carotenoids, it displays antioxidant properties. In fact, it is the most efficient scavenger of singlet oxygen of all antioxidants that are classified as carotenoids.
Reverses Oxidative Damage
There have been numerous studies on lycopene in the past few decades, and many of them have noted its antioxidant potential. It has become common knowledge that lycopene is good for the prostate, but not all people know that the prostate gland is its primary storage in the human body. Indeed lycopene interferes with the health of cells and tissues that make up the prostate gland.
One study that tracked down malignant prostate tissues prior to scheduled surgical removal studied the effects of regular intake of lycopene. It was documented and published that lycopene concentrations in the prostate doubled and the oxidative damage to DNA in prostate tissues decreased, suggesting a dose-related efficiency in the prevention of cellular damage brought on by free radicals and other reactive oxygen species.
Induces Apoptotic Death
High consumptions of lycopene appear to directly counteract with cancer cells and tumor growth, not only in the prostate gland, but also in the lungs, breasts, ovaries, Stomach, and cervix. It has also been tied to other disorders of the prostate, such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH. It has been noted to slow down cell proliferation that leads to the enlargement of the prostate.
More imporatantly, lycopene seems capable of inducing the cellular process called apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in prostate tissues, most notably in carcinoma regions. This is also evidenced by a significant decrease in prostate-specific antigen in the blood, the reason why lycopene has gained the attention of researchers for prostate health, spurring a number of studies in recent years.
Maintains Prostate Health
Lycopene levels in the human body are largely dependent on dietary intake. As a general rule, the higher the intake of lycopene is, the healthier the prostate becomes. First, it neutralizes reactive oxygen species such as singlet oxygen and free radicals. It also inhibits the multiplication of prostate cells, effectively preventing benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is believed to afflict up to 80 percent of the male population. For those suffering from prostate enlargement, it slows the progression of the disease.
If you are, 40 years old or more you should consider taking lycopene as a preventative daily!
Date:
December 10, 2010 02:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are you experiencing Joint pain? Give Baxyl hyaluronic Acid liquid a try
Baxyl - Liquid Hyaluronic acid
Baxyl is an effective and convenient way to:
* Promote healthy joint mobility and lubrication*
* Enhance the maintenance of cartilage and joint tissues*
* Stimulate bone health by increasing bone mineral density*
* Promote healthy skin aging and support the maintenance of smooth skin*
* Support tissue health and function in the lining of the Stomach, intestines, and bladder.*
Baxyl - Hyaluronic Acid Works
Hayluronic acid works, get this powerful substance into the body faster by taking it in liquid form.
If you are experiencing joint pain, give baxyl a try!
Date:
August 25, 2010 02:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cascara sagrada can help with constipation
Cascara sagrada and Constipation
Cascara Sagrada was introduced to the Spanish explorers by Native Americans when they complained of problems with constipation. The Spanish then gave this herb its name, cascara sagrada, which means sacred bark and used it as a natural laxative. The Spanish explorers brought the herb back with them to Spain when they returned. In 1877, this herb was admitted to the U.S. Pharmacopoeia and is still included as an official medicine to this day.
Cascara sagrada is believed to be one of the best herbs for treatment of chronic constipation. This is because it enhances the peristaltic action that takes place in the intestines and increases the secretions of the Stomach, liver, and pancreas. This herb is also helpful in relieving hemorrhoids because of its nonirritating nature and softening action on the stool.
Cascara sagrada is found in many over-the-counter preparations that are used for the intention of relieving constipation. This is because it acts on the large intestine to increase the muscular activity of the colon. The anthraquinones that are found in cascara sagrada are believed to encourage intestinal contraction. This herb is used to restore natural bowel movement without griping and to restore tone to the bowel.
Additionally, an element in cascara sagrada is known as quinine emodin. This element is being studied for its usefulness in treating lymphocytic leukemia and Walker carcinosarcoma tumor system. More research is needed before it will be recommended for treatment, but so far, the findings have been promising.
Cascara sagrada can be used often, as it is not considered to be addictive. Preparations should be made from bark that has been aged for a least a year before use. This must be done because fresh bark is poisonous and can cause nausea and extreme griping on the intestinal system. Cascara sagrada can be found in various forms including capsules, liquid extracts, and dried bark. Although it tastes bitter, the dried bark can be made into a tea. A typical dosage of cascara is a 300 mg capsule which is taken in the early evening to stimulate a bowel movement in the morning. The laxative effect usually occurs 6 to 12 hours after cascara is taken. Products containing cascara sagrada should not be used for more than eight or ten days. Those women who are pregnant and nursing should avoid this herb, as well as people with intestinal blockage, undiagnosed Stomach pain, or symptoms that may indicate appendicitis. People with diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, or intestinal ulcers should not take this herb.
Additionally, children younger than twelve with constipation should not be treated with cascara sagrada.
The bark of cascara sagrada should be used to provide alterative, antineoplastic, antispasmodic, hepatic, lithotriptic, and purgative properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are calcium, chlorine, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, silicon, sodium, and vitamins A, B-complex, and C. Primarily, cascara sagrada is beneficial in dealing with colon problems, constipation, gallbladder problems, gallstones, gas, gastric disorders, hemorrhoids, intestinal problems, liver disorders, and worms. Additionally, this herb is extremely helpful in treating colitis, coughs, croup, dyspepsia, gout, indigestion, insomnia, jaundice, excessive mucus, pituitary problems, and spleen ailments.
For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by cascara sagrada, please contact a representative from your local health food store. Always choose name brands of this wonderful herbal laxative to ensure quality and purity and gentleness of its properties on the intestinal tract.
Date:
July 30, 2010 10:07 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Herbs And The Immune System
When looking for an herb to help with the immune system, look for herbs containing sulphur, which helps to dissolve acids in the system. Additionally, sulphur acts as an antiseptic and strengthens the tissues and the body. The following herbs range in amounts of sulphur, but are all good for helping to protect the immune system.
Burdock root, one of the best blood purifiers, can reduce swelling and help to rid the body of calcification deposits. This is because it promotes kidneys function, helping to clear the blood of harmful acids. Burdock contains high amounts of vitamin C and iron. It also contains protein, carbohydrates, some vitamin A, P, and B-complex, vitamin E, PABA, and small amounts of sulphur, silicon, copper, iodine, and zinc.
Capsicum, which is also called as cayenne, is known to be the best for warding off diseases and equalizing blood circulation. It has been called a supreme and harmless internal disinfectant. This herb is extremely important for quick action against flu and colds. Capsicum is high in vitamins A, C, iron, and calcium. Additionally, it contains vitamin G, magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, B-complex, and potassium.
Catnip helps in fatigue and improves circulation. It helps in aches and pain, upset Stomach, and diarrhea that are associated with flu. Catnip is high in vitamins A, C, B-complex, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, sodium, and a small trace of sulphur.
Chaparral, which has the ability to cleanse deep into the muscle and tissue walls, is a potent healer to the urethral tract and lymphatics. It tones up the system and rebuilds the tissues. One of the best herbal antibiotics, chaparral has been said to be able to rid the body of LSD residue. Chaparral is high in protein, potassium, and sodium, and contains silicon, tin, aluminum, sulphur, chlorine, and barium.
Comfrey is one of the most valuable herbs known to botanic medicine, as it has beneficial effects on all parts of the body. It is one of the finest healers for the respiratory system, being able to be used both internally and externally for the healing of fractures, wounds, sores, and ulcers. Echinacea, which stimulates the immune response, increases the body’s ability to resist infections. It improves lymphatic filtration and drainage and also helps to remove toxins from the blood. Fennel helps to stabilize the nervous system and moves waste material out of the body. This herb is known for improving digestion and possesses a diuretic effect.
Garlic, nature’s antibiotic, has a rejuvenative effect on all body functions, building health and preventing diseases, as well as dissolving cholesterol in the bloodstream. Garlic stimulates the lymphatic system to throw off waste materials. It is full of antibiotics like substances that are effective against bacteria.
Juniper berries are used in cases where uric acid is being retained in the system. It is an excellent disease preventative, being high in natural insulin. Juniper has the ability to restore the pancreas where there has been no permanent damage and is excellent for infections.
Kelp, a good promoter of glandular health, has a beneficial effect on many disorders of the body. It is called a sustainer to the brain and nervous system, as it helps the brain to function normally. Kelp is essential during pregnancy.
Along with the above herbs, other beneficial herbs for the immune system are lobelia, mullein, plantain, parsley, sarsaparilla, shepherd’s purse, stinging nettle, and watercress. Look to your local or internet health food store for quality herbs to help boost the immune system.
Date:
February 12, 2010 12:31 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oil Skin Treatment
Oily skin is the result of the sebaceous glands, which are the oil-secreting glands, produce more oil than is needed for proper lubrication of the skin. The excess oil is responsible for clogging pores and causing blemishes. Oily skin is most likely a result of heredity. However, it is known to be affected by factors such as diet, hormone levels, pregnancy, birth control pills, and the cosmetics that you use. Humidity and hot weather stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. However, it can occur at any age. A lot of people have skin that is oily only in certain areas and dry or normal in others. This condition is known as combination skin. Generally, the forehead, nose, chin, and upper back tend to be the areas that are more oily than other areas.
Oily skin does have some positive aspects. This type of skin is slow to develop age spots and discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles. Often, it doesn’t freckle or turn red in the sun. It actually tans evenly and beautifully. On the negative side, oily skin is extremely prone to breakouts, even past adolescence. Oily skin also has a chronically shiny appearance, an oily or greasy feeling, and enlarged pores. The following nutrients are recommended for the prevention and maintenance of oily skin. The dosages recommended are for adults unless otherwise specified. For children between the ages of twelve and seventeen, the dosages should be reduced to three-quarters the recommended amount.
Flaxseed oil capsule or liquid in dosages of 1,000 mg daily or 1 tsp daily is helpful in supplying needed essential fatty acids. This nutrient is a good healer for most skin disorders. 25,000 IU of vitamin A for three months is necessary for healing and construction of new skin tissue. Vitamin B complex should be used as directed on the label as B vitamins are important for healthy skin tone. 1,000 to 1,500 mg of kelp should be taken daily. This nutrient is responsible for supplying balanced minerals that are needed for good skin tone.
Vitamin E should be taken in dosages of 200 IU daily or 400 IU every other day to protect against free radicals. 50 mg of zinc should be taken daily for tissue repair. This nutrient also enhances immune response. Grape seed extract should be taken as directed on the label, as it is a powerful antioxidant that protects skin cells. 500 mg of L-cysteine should be taken on an empty Stomach, as it contains sulfur which is needed for healthy skin. 1 tsp of lecithin granules should be taken three times daily before meals. This nutrient is needed for better absorption of the essential fatty acids. SOD should be taken as directed on the label. It acts as a free radical destroyer. Tretinoin should be used as prescribed by a physician. This nutrient acts as a gradual chemical peel, unclogs pores, and speeds up sloughing off of top layers of skin. It helps to expose new, fresh skin.
Additionally, the following herbs may be beneficial: aloe vera, burdock root, chamomile, horsetail, oat straw, thyme, lavender, lemongrass, licorice root, rosebuds, and witch hazel. If you have a oily skin, washing the affected area two or three times daily will help keep the skin oil free and reduce acne along with a healthy diet low in sugar and vitamin supplements.
Date:
February 10, 2010 11:16 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Lactase Enzymes and Acidophilus
Lactose intolerance is what is known as the inability to digest lactose. It is cause by a lack or deficiency of lactase. Lactase is an enzyme that is manufactured in the small intestine. It is responsible for splitting lactose into glucose and galactose. When a person who has lactose intolerance consumes milk or other dairy products, some or all of the lactose they contain remains undigested, retains fluid, and ferments in the colon. This results in abdominal cramps, bloating, diarrhea, and gas. Symptoms of lactose intolerance usually result between thirty minutes and two hours after consumption of dairy foods.
The degree of lactose intolerance varies from person to person. For most adults, lactose intolerance is actually a normal condition. Only Caucasians of northern European origin generally retain the ability to digest lactose after childhood. In the United States, somewhere between 30 and 50 million people are lactose intolerance. Lactase deficiency can also occur due to gastrointestinal disorders, which damage the digestive tract like celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, regional enteritis, or ulcerative colitis. Lactase deficiency can even develop on its own, with no known way to prevent it.
Lactose intolerance can occur in children as well as adults, even though it is far less common. In infants, lactose intolerance can occur after a severe case of gastroenteritis, which damages the intestinal lining. Symptoms of lactose intolerance in an infant can include foamy diarrhea with diaper rash, slow weight gain and development, and vomiting. Lactose intolerance can cause discomfort and digestive disruption, although it is not a serious threat to health and it can be easily managed through dietary adjustments. The following nutrients are recommended for dealing with lactose intolerance. The dosages specified are for adults unless otherwise specified. For a child between the ages of twelve and seventeen, the dose should be reduced to three-quarters of the recommended amount. A child between the ages of six and twelve should use half the recommended dosage.
One teaspoon of acidophilus in distilled water, taken twice daily on an empty Stomach, can help to replace lost friendly bacteria and promote healthy digestion. It is recommended that a nondairy formula is used. Charcoal tablets are helpful in absorbing toxins and relieving diarrhea. Four tablets taken every hour with water until symptoms subside can help combat an acute attack. 1,000 mg of magnesium should be taken daily, as it is need for calcium uptake and promotes pH balance.
A multivitamin and mineral complex should be taken as directed on the label because all nutrients are needed for optimal health. 400 IU of vitamin D3 is also needed for calcium uptake, while 200 IU of vitamin E daily protects the cell membranes that line the colon wall. It should be noted that the d-alpha-tocopherol form of vitamin E should be taken. 30 mg of zinc should be taken three times daily. A total of 100 mg daily from all supplements should not be exceeded. This nutrient is needed to maintain immune system and proper mineral balance. For best absorption, zinc gluconate lozenges should be used. Additionally, 3 mg of copper is needed to balance with zinc.
Most of all, a good lactase enzyme supplement can help ease painful gas and bloating when taken before dairy products are consumed.
Date:
October 15, 2009 10:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cinnamon Bark
The cinnamon plant is a small evergreen tree that grows between thirty two and forty nine feet tall. This plant belongs to the Lauraceae family and is native to Sri Lanka. The leaves of the plant are ovate oblong in shape and approximately two to seven inches in length, while the flowers, which have a distinct odor, are greenish in color. The fruit is a purple berry about one-centimeter and contain a single seed. The flavor of cinnamon is the result of an essential oil which makes up about 1/2% to 1% of its composition. This oil can be prepared by roughly pounding the bark, macerating it in seawater, and quickly distilling the whole. The oil is of a golden-yellow color, with the characteristic odor of cinnamon and a very hot aromatic taste.
Cinnamon has been known from ancient times, with the first mention of particular spice in the Old Testament being of cinnamon. In this, Moses commanded the use of sweet cinnamon and cassia in the holy anointing oil. Additionally, cinnamon is also mentioned elsewhere in the bible. This herb was so highly prized among ancient nations that it was often looked upon as a gift fit for even God. Cinnamon was imported to Egypt as early as 2000 B.C. The herb is also alluded to by Herodotus and other classical writers. Cinnamon was too expensive to be commonly used in funerals of ancient Rome. However, the Emperor Nero is said to have burned a year’s worth of the city’s supply at the funeral for his wife in 65 A.D.
Cinnamon can be harvested by growing the tree for two years and then coppicing it. About a dozen shoots will form from the roots in the next year. These shoots are then stripped of their bark and left to dry. Only the thin inner bark is used, while the outer woody portion is removed. Each dried strip of cinnamon are then cut into lengths of about five to ten centimeters for sale.
Cinnamon has been around for thousands of years. It is revered as a spice and also as a healing agent. Cinnamon was included in embalming oils by the Egyptians. This herb was used in China to treat fever, diarrhea, and menstrual problems dating as far back as 2000 BC. Cinnamon was a major trade commodity during the ancient times. Cinnamon grew in the southern regions of Asia originally. This herb is used to help relieve upset Stomachs, reduce milk flow, stop excessive menstrual flow, and alleviate back pain. Research has also determined that cinnamon contains components that possess antifungal and antibacterial capabilities. This herb is found in some toothpaste, which allows it to help some decay-causing bacteria. Cinnamon is also helpful for promoting healthy blood sugar levels.
The dried bark of the cinnamon plant is used to provide alterative, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, febrifuge, sedative, stimulant, and Stomachic properties. Primarily, cinnamon is beneficial in treating abdominal pain, candida, diarrhea, gas, gastric disorders, and indigestion.
Additionally, this herb is also extremely helpful in dealing with arthritis, asthma, backaches, bloating, bronchitis, cholera, coronary problems, fevers, excessive menstruation, nausea, nephritis, parasites, psoriasis, rheumatism, upset Stomach, vomiting, and warts. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by cinnamon, please contact a representative from your local health food store with questions.
Date:
August 27, 2009 02:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Garlic
Garlic is very popular because of its health benefits. A perennial plant and member of the lily family, the bulb of the garlic plant is used for many medicinal purposes. Garlic was used by the ancient Hebrews, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and Egyptians. The Chinese used this herb at least three thousand years ago to treat various ailments. The Egyptians ate garlic while building pyramids to increase their strength and endurance. Hippocrates suggested that this herb be used for treatment of uterine cancer. Native Americans used garlic to fight abdominal cancer, while the Europeans used this herb during the plague years to provide immunity. The main historical uses of garlic were to treat colds, coughs, toothaches, earaches, diarrhea, infection, arteriosclerosis, headaches, dandruff, tumors, worms, and hypertension.
Garlic is nature’s antibiotic. This herb is very effective in fighting bacteria which may be resistant to other antibiotics. The herb stimulates the lymphatic system in order to throw off waste material. Garlic is different from other antibiotics in the fact that it has the ability to stimulate cell growth and activity. This herb rejuvenates all body functions. Garlic opens up blood vessels, reducing hypertension. It is known as a health-building and disease-preventing herb.
Several studies have linked garlic to a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. This herb has been found to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood, while lowering blood pressure, increasing immunity, and reducing the blood’s clotting ability. Research suggests that eating the equivalent of one-half to one clove of garlic daily can decrease total serum cholesterol levels by about nine percent. Anticoagulant capabilities have also been found in garlic by German researchers. Garlic is able to benefit those individuals who are suffering from peripheral arterial occlusive disease, which is better known as blood clots in the legs.
Garlic also contains antitumor properties, with studies showing it having the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer-causing nitrosamine. The National Cancer Institute even recommends adding more garlic, onions, and other similar vegetables to the diet. This would lower the risk of developing Stomach cancer. Results from one study showed that garlic may be toxic to some cancer cells. It may encourage the immune system to spot the invaders and destroy them, allowing a natural immune process to destroy tumor cells.
Garlic is believed to stimulate the lymphatic system by ridding itself of toxins. The Russians consider garlic to be a natural antibiotic, which is why they consume it regularly. This herb is often used to prevent disease and heal the body. It is nourishing for the entire body, especially the heart, circulation, Stomach, spleen, and lungs. Additionally, it has been used to stimulate circulation and to help the immune system function more effectively. Some believe that this herb may help prevent some forms of cancer, heart disease, strokes, and infections.
In summary, the bulb of the garlic plant is used to provide adaptogen, alterative, antibiotic, anticoagulant, antifungal, antineoplastic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, blood purifier, diaphoretic, digestive, expectorant, febrifuge, rubefacient, stimulant, and vulnerary properties. Primarily, garlic is extremely beneficial in dealing with asthma, blood impurities, high blood pressure, bronchitis, cancer, candidiasis, poor circulation, colds, colitis, coughs, infectious diseases, ear infections, fevers, flu, fungus, gastric disorders, heart disease, indigestion, infection, liver disorders, lung disorders, parasites, blood poisoning, prostate problems, respiratory problems, and staph/strep infections.
This herb is also good for treating acne, allergies, arthritis, childhood diseases, diabetes, diarrhea, edema, emphysema, gallbladder problems, hypoglycemia, insomnia, kidney ailments, pneumonia, rheumatism, sinus problems, ulcers, warts, and worms.
Garlic is a wonderful all purpose herb that can be found at your local or internet health food store. Always look for name brands when buying garlic to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.
Date:
August 25, 2009 12:12 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Caraway Herb
The caraway plant, also known as Persian cumin, is a biennial plant that is found in the Apiaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and western Asia. The plant is very similar in appearance to a carrot plant, with finely divided, feathery leaves that have thread-like divisions that grow on twenty to thirty centimeter stems. The main flower stem is forty to sixty centimeters tall and has small white or pink flowers that are in the shape of umbels. The caraway fruits, which are erroneously called seeds, are crescent-shaped and about two millimeters in length and have five pale ridges. The caraway plant prefers warm, sunny locations and a well-drained soil as well.
The fruits of the caraway plant are usually used whole. They have a pungent, anise-like flavor and an aroma that is derived from the essential oils carvone and limonene. These oils are used as a spice in breads, especially rye bread, which is denser due to the yeast killing properties of the essential oil, limonene. Caraway is also used in liquors, casseroles, and other foods, especially in Central European and Northern European cuisine, like sauerkraut. This herb is also used to add flavor to cheeses. A substance made from the seeds is used as a remedy for colic, loss of appetite, digestive disorders, and to dispel worms.
Caraway herbs have been used as a flavoring in foods such as rye bread for thousands of years. It has also been used medicinally by the Romans, Germans, and the English. Generally, it was used to treat flatulence and indigestion. It was also used to relieve colic in babies.
Caraway is very similar to anise. Both of them are recommended for the same purposes. This herb is a powerful antiseptic. It is especially effective in relieving toothaches. When it is applied locally to the skin, it also acts as an anesthetic. This herb can be mixed with other herbs such as mandrake and culver’s root in order to help modify its purgative action. Caraway is also useful in treating Stomach problems. Additionally, it helps prevent fermentation in the Stomach. It can help to settle Stomach after people have taken medication that causes nausea. Caraway also helps to relieve intestinal cramps and colic in babies.
This herb is known to encourage menstruation and the flow of milk in nursing mothers. Caraway also helps to ease uterine cramps.
The root and seed of the caraway plant are used to provide anesthetic, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, galactagogue, mild purgative, stimulant, and Stomachic properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are calcium, cobalt, copper, iodine, iron, lead, magnesium, potassium, silicon, vitamin B-complex, and zinc. It is important to consult your local health care professional before taking this, or any supplement in order to obtain the best results. Priamrily, caraway is extremely beneficial in treating loss of appetite, colic, uterine and intestinal cramps, gastric disorders, indigestion, and spasms.
Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with colds, absent lactation, absent menstruation, upset Stomach, and toothaches. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by caraway, feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.
Date:
August 15, 2009 01:37 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Myrrh Gum
Myrrh is the reddish-brown resinous material that comes from the dried sap of a number of trees. Primarily, it is obtained from the Commiphora myrrha, which is native to Yemen, Somalia, and the eastern parts of Ethiopia. Additionally, it comes from Commiphora gileadensis, which is native to Jordan. The sap of a number of other Commiphora and Balsamodendron species is also referred to as myrrh. Its name is most likely of Semitic origin. The quality of myrrh can be identified through the darkness and clarity of the resin. However, the best method of judging the resin’s quality is by feeling the stickiness of the freshly broken fragments. The scent of raw myrrh resin and its essential oil is sharp, pleasant, somewhat bitter, and be described as being stereotypically resinous. It produces a heavy, bitter smoke when it is burned.
In ancient times, myrrh was valued as a fragrance and healing agent. Ancient Egyptain women used the burned myrrh to get rid of fleas in their homes. The Chinese used myrrh to heal wounds. They also used this herb for menstrual problems, bleeding, hemorrhoids, and ulcerated sores. Myrrh is often mentioned throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament it is referred to in the preparation of the holy ointment. In Esther, myrrh is used as a purification herb for women and it is a perfume in Psalm 45:8.
This herb is a powerful antiseptic. Similar to Echinacea, it is a valuable cleansing and healing agent. Myrrh works on the Stomach and colon to soothe and heal inflammation. This herb also provides vitality and strength to the digestive system. Myrrh stimulates the flow of blood to the capillaries. Additionally, it helps speed the healing of the mucus membranes. Among these include the gums, throat, Stomach, and intestines. Myrrh can be applied to sore and it also works as an antiseptic. It can help promote menstruation, aid digestion, heal sinus problems, soothe inflammation, and speed the healing process.
Research has verified the use of myrrh as an antiseptic. Sometimes, it is added to mouthwash and toothpaste. Myrrh has also been found to have mild astringent and antimicrobial properties. This herb contains silyamrin, which is able to protect the liver from chemical toxins and help increase liver function.
The resin of the myrrh plant is used to provide alterative, antibiotic, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, emmenagogue, expectorant, and stimulant properties. The primary nutrients found in this herb are chlorine, potassium, silicon, sodium, and zinc. Primarily, myrrh is extremely beneficial in treating asthma, bronchitis, colds, colitis, colon problems, cuts, emphysema, gangrene, gastric disorders, sore gums, hemorrhoids, herpes, hypoglycemia, indigestion, infection, lung disease, excessive mucus, pyorrhea, sinus problems, mouth sores, skin sores, tonsillitis, and toothaches.
Additionally, this herb is very helpful in dealing with abrasions, arthritis, boils, breath odor, canker sores, coughs, diarrhea, diphtheria, eczema, gas, menstrual problems, nervous conditions, phlegm, rheumatism, scarlet fever, thyroid problems, tuberculosis, ulcers, wounds, and yeast infections. In order to obtain the best results when supplementing with this, or any herb, it is important to consult your health care provider before beginning any regimen while on medications. For more information on the many beneficial effects provided by myrrh, please feel free to consult a representative from your local health food store with questions.
Date:
July 20, 2009 11:51 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Valerian Root
Valerian was used by ancient Greeks for digestion, nausea, and urinary tract disorders. A famous Greek physician, Galen, was known for prescribing valerian to be used as a decongestant. Herbalist John Gerard recommended valerian for chest congestion, convulsions, and bruises in 1597. Additionally, Native Americans traditionally used valerian for healing wounds. It was also accepted as a tranquilizer from 1820 to 1942 and was listed this way until 1950.
One of the most valuable properties of valerian is its ability to produce a deep, satisfying sleep. This herb acts as a relaxant and is an effective remedy for fighting against insomnia. The active ingredients that are found in valerian root are also responsible for relaxing smooth muscle tissue and also depressing the central nervous system. It seems as if there is no single component of valerian that is entirely responsible for all of its sedative activity. Instead, several of the constituents of valerian are responsible for causing the sedative effect when combined together. Like other standard sleep aids that are often prescribed, valerian works in the same way. However, it possesses an advantage in the fact that it does not cause the morning grogginess that is often linked to prescription sleep medications.
There have been many different studies conducted which have all led to the belief that valerian possesses benefits for insomnia, anxiety, and stress. Valerian is also extremely useful for all kinds f sleep disorders, especially when those sleep disorders are related to anxiety, nervousness, headache pain, or even physical and mental exhaustion. Research has proven that valerian is not only effective in treating insomnia, but also in reducing sleep latency and night awakenings.
Valerian has been shown to be great for the heart, lungs, liver, Stomach, and the nerves and the brain. It has also shown possibilities in helping with epilepsy, hysteria, migraines, and the elimination of worms. It does all of these things because it works to calm anxiety, muscle spasms, and nervous tension. In addition to the ability to relax and calm, valerian can help to improve mental acuity and coordination. One study even found that those individuals who were hyperactive were able to concentrate for longer periods of time with the assistance of valerian.
Valerian is rich in calcium, which gives it to the ability to strengthen the spine, nerves, and brain. This herb is also high in magnesium and manganese. Both of these minerals work with calcium in order to build healthy bones and nervous system. Valerian is high in selenium, which strengthens the body against immune related disorders. The niacin content that is found in valerian helps to prevent cholesterol build-up, irritability, depression, loss of memory, and weakness. This herb also contains potassium, iron, sodium, zinc, silicon, and vitamins A and C. There appear to be no contraindications to the use of valerian during pregnancy or lactation. Valerian is thought to be safe for almost everyone. Although safe, this herb is usually recommended for short-term use.
Great herbs like valerian are available in capsule, tablet, and liquid extract forms at your local or internet health food store. For more information about valerian and its benefits, contact your local health food retailer. Always purchase name brands to ensure quality and purity of the valerian product you purchase.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Natural herbs are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.
Date:
July 15, 2009 12:17 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hops and St. John's Wort
St. John’s wort has emerged recently as an herb that is known to assist the nervous system. Quite a few naturopathic physicians rank kava kava, valerian, St. John’s wort, passionflower, and hops as the most effective herbs for treating insomnia. A study that took place in 1994 and was published in the Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry and Neurology proved that St. John’s wort extracts increased deep sleep during the total sleeping period of the patients. This study also makes an interesting connection between sleep and depression. It was found that many standard antidepressants and MAO inhibitors used to treat those people who suffer from depression cause a decrease in deep sleep. St. John’s wort has demonstrated the ability to treat both insomnia and depression.
Hops, an herb that is commonly found throughout the world, was originally used as a food. The tips of the food were both cooked and eaten. The young plants were the ones eaten because the older plants were too tough. A famous herbalist, Gerarde, recommended using the buds of these plants in salads, while the Romans anciently used hops as a food and Native American tribes found hops to be of great value. Hops have been appreciated for a long time for its nervine properties. A hop was first used as a beer ingredient in England around 1500. At this point, hops farmers noticed that their farmhands often seemed tired and easily fatigued. With time, the herb gained a huge reputation as a natural sedative. Pillows were filled with hops to promote rest and relaxation during the reign of King George when people were recovering from an illness.
Lupulin is a compound that is found in hops. It is described as a sedative and hypnotic drug. Certain parts of the plant have been found to have sedative and hypnotic effects. This herb is known to be fast-acting, soothing, and calming to the nervous system. Additionally, it is another nervine herb that assists in promoting sleep. It is mainly used to alleviate nervous tension and promote restful sleep. Also, hops is used for antispasmodic effects. Its relaxing effect has the potential to calm the nerves and muscles in cases of muscle spasms. This herb has also been shown to contain appetizing and tonic properties. It acts as a stimulant to the glands and muscles of the Stomach, while calming the hyperexcitable gastric nerves. Hops also has a relaxing influence upon the liver and gall duct, and a laxative effect on the bowels.
Along with other uses, hops is also used for its antibiotic properties. It is very helpful for sore throats, bronchitis, infections, high fevers, delirium, toothaches, earaches, and pain. A hops remedy is a great way to help with inflammation, boils, tumors, and swelling. Hops is extremely high in B-complex vitamins, which are known for their calming effect on the nervous system. B vitamins also promote energy and aid in problems of depression, anxiety, nervousness, and memory. Additionally, hops is extremely rich in potassium, which is necessary for nerve transmission, contraction of muscles, and hormone secretion. Low levels of potassium are often found in those people who have high blood pressure. Additionally, hops contains magnesium, zinc, copper, iodine, manganese, iron, sodium, and fluoride.
Hops and st. johns wort are a wonderful herb that has many therapeutic uses. Hops and st. johns wort come in tea bag, capsule, and tablet forms at your local or internet health food store. For more information on St. John’s wort and hops, contact your local health food store.
Date:
June 08, 2009 10:39 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Blue Vervain
For thousands of years, blue vervain has been used as an herbal remedy. The Chinese used this herb to treat malaria, dysentery, and congestion. It was also used during the middle Ages to help cure plagues. Blue vervain was also used by Native Americans as a natural tranquilizer for treating nervous conditions, along with female problems. In Germany, modern research has been found to support the use of blue vervain for the nervous system and for pain relief.
Because of its bitter taste, vervain is used by herbalists to improve digestion. Additionally, this herb was used to treat people with depression and spastic pains in the gastrointestinal tract. Blue vervain was also used as a mild diaphoretic and for all manner of female reproductive system problems that are associated with melancholy or anxiety. Physicians in the United States during the early 20th century believed that vervain may be helpful for mild digestive problems. This herb also had a reputation of being a traditional remedy for stimulating the production of breast milk. Although the active constituents of vervain have not been thoroughly demonstrated, it is believed that glycosides such as verbenalin and acucubin, as well as a volatile oil may be the key contributors to its activity.
Additional research shows that blue vervain has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to relieve respiratory inflammation. These properties are also calming for coughs. This herb works to fight mucus, especially for coughs that are associated with colds. Dr. Edward E. Shook, a herbalist, recommended using blue vervain to treat all diseases of the spleen and liver. This herb is also used to restore circulation and alleviate menstrual symptoms, epilepsy, indigestion, and dyspepsia.
A vervain tea made from leaves and flowers can be prepared by adding one to two teaspoons to a pint of hot water. This is then left to steep, covered for ten to fifteen minutes. Doctors typically recommend that a person takes three cups each day. Because the taste of the tea is somewhat disagreeable, the majority of people prefer to take this extract in a tincture or pill form. A tincture of one to two teaspoons, three times daily, is also suggested to consume this extract.
No adverse effects of vervain have been reported to this date. However, vervain should be avoided during pregnancy. Even though it was used traditionally during the last two weeks of pregnancy to facilitate labor, if it is used during pregnancy, one should only do so under the guidance of a healthcare professional that is experienced in herbal medicine.
The entire herb is used to provide alterative, anti-inflammatory, antiperiodic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, expectorant, nervine, and purgative properties. The primary nutrients found in blue vervain include calcium, manganese, and vitamin C and E. Primarily, blue vervain is extremely beneficial in dealing with asthma, bronchitis, poor circulation, colds, colon problems, congestion, convulstions, coughs, fevers, flu, gastric disorders, indigestion, insomnia, liver disorders, lung congestion, nervous conditions, pneumonia, seizures, upset Stomach, sore throat, uterine problems, and worms.
Additionally, this herb is extremely helpful in treating catarrh, constipation, diarrhea, dysentery, earaches, epilepsy, gallstones, headaches, kidney problems, malaria, menstrual symptoms, excessive mucus, pain, skin diseases, sores, and spleen ailments. For additional information on the many beneficial effects of blue vervain, please contact a representative from your local health food store. Always purchase name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you buy.
*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Blue vervain 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.
Date:
March 03, 2009 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Healthy Nails
The nails are responsible for protecting the nerve-rich fingertips and tips of the toes from injury. Nails are part of the epidermis, which is the outer layer of skin. They are mainly composed of keratin, which is a type of protein. The nail bed is the skin on top of which the nails grow, as they grow from 0.05 to 1.2 millimeters each week. If a nail is lost, it takes approximately seven months for it to grow out fully.
Those nail beds that are healthy are pink, which indicates a rich blood supply. Changes or abnormalities in the nails are often a result of nutritional deficiencies or other underlying conditions. The nails are able to reveal a great deal about the body’s internal health. Nail abnormalities on either the fingers or the toes can give evidence to an underlying disorder.
There are many changes that nutritional deficiencies can produce in the nails. A lack of protein, folic acid, and vitamin C are responsible for hang nails, while white bands across the nails are an indicator for protein deficiency. Dryness and brittleness indicates a lack of vitamin A and calcium. Horizontal and vertical ridges in the nails means that there is a deficiency of the B vitamins, while an insufficient intake of vitamin B12 can lead to excessive dryness, very rounded and curved nail ends, and darkened nails. Iron deficiency can lead to nails that develop a concave shape and/or vertical ridges. White spots on the nails can be caused by a deficiency of zinc. Inadequate amounts of friendly bacteria in the body can result in the growth of fungus under and around the nails, while a lack of hydrochloric acid contributes to the splitting of nails.
The following supplements are essential in promoting healthy nail growth. Unless otherwise specified, the dosages given are for adults. For children between the ages of twelve and seventeen, the dose should be reduced to three-quarters of the recommended amount. For children between six and twelve, one-half of the recommended dose should be used, while one-quarter of the amount should be used for children under the age of six.
Acidophilus should be taken as directed on the label, as it inhibits the harmful bacteria that cause fungal infection. A free-form amino acid complex can also be taken as directed on the label, on an empty Stomach, to provide the building materials for new nails. Silica supplies silicon, which is needed for hair, bones, and strong nails. It should be taken as directed on the label. Vitamin A emulsion should be taken in dosages of 50,000 IU daily, as the body cannot utilize protein without vitamin A. Black currant seed oil is helpful for weak, brittle nails and should be taken in dosages of 500 mg twice daily. Calcium and magnesium should be taken as directed on the label, as they are necessary for nail growth.
Iron should be taken as directed by a physician, as deficiency produces spoon nails and/or vertical ridges. A vitamin B complex should be taken as directed on the label, as deficiencies result in fragile nails. To prevent hangnails and inflammation of the tissue surrounding the nail, 3,000 to 6,000 mg daily of vitamin C with bioflavonoids should be taken. 50 mg daily of zinc is beneficial for affecting absorption and action of vitamins and enzymes.
Additionally, the following herbs are helpful: alfalfa, black cohosh, burdock root, dandelion, gotu kola, yellow dock, horsetail, oat straw, borage seed, flaxseed, lemongrass, parsley, primrose, pumpkin seed, sage, butcher’s broom, chamomile, ginkgo biloba, rosemary, sassafras, and turmeric.
Healthy looking nails can tell you if your body is getting the right nutrients from your diet. When you find your nails are not looking well, consider the above vitamins, minerals and herbs to help restore healthy looking finger and toe nails. The vitamins and herbs listed can be found at your local or internet health food store.
Date:
December 18, 2008 04:51 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Red Pepper, Cayenne, Capsicum
A remarkable whole body stimulant, Capsicum can boost blood flow, tone the nervous system, relieve indigestion, promote sweating, help to cauterize and heal ulcers, ease persistent pain, and fight off infection. One study on African plants found that Capsicum, when regularly ingested, is highly beneficial in hemorrhoids varicose veins, anorexia, liver congestion, and vascular conditions. The therapeutic actions of capsicum can be attributed to the alkaloid or glucoside content of the herb.
Capsicum boosts peripheral circulation and stimulates organ secretion as it expedites the therapeutic delivery and action of other herbs. This allows the medicinal benefits of these herbs to reach the inflamed tissue more rapidly because of enhanced blood flow. Cayenne insures rapid and even distribution of the active parts of the rest of the herbs to critical parts of the body, which include those that are involved in cellular respiration, metabolism, data transmission, and neural-hormonal activation.
For this reason, cayenne is included in many other blends, as even extremely small quantities can dramatically increase the efficiency of most other herbs. Capsicum stimulates everything from blood flow to peristaltic action in the Stomach, to intestinal transit time. Capsicum’s ability to stimulate organ secretion and heart action makes it one of the strongest natural stimulants that are known.
Capsicum is also known to be unequaled in its ability to boost circulation and increase heart action. Cultures that consume significant amounts of cayenne pepper in their diets have been found to have lower rates of cardiovascular disease. A variety of desirable actions on the entire cardiovascular system can be produced by Capsicum, with its extraordinary ability to enhance cardiovascular performance and lower blood pressure. Capsicum is considered a superior food for the heart by herbalists, where capsicum in hot water is thought to help lessen the severity of heart attacks.
Many studies have also been done on Capsicum’s ability to reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis by reducing blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. When cayenne is ingested along with dietary cholesterol, the typical rise in liver and blood serum cholesterol levels that ordinarily results was significantly inhibited. Additionally, bile acids and free cholesterol were subsequently eliminated from the body through the stool.
Another bonus of Capsicum is its ability to lower blood serum cholesterol, as it decreases blood pressure. There is additionally evidence that suggested that the herb is able to initiate other mechanisms that help in fighting hypertension. Because Capsicum stimulates organ secretion and boosts peripheral blood flow, it is not shocking that is also facilitates the faster removal of toxins from the blood stream and lymphatic system.
Additional benefits of Capsicum include its ability to boost the circulatory system, as it has the ability to help in preventing cold hands and feet, as well as Reynaud’s Syndrome. Capsicum also has antioxidant capabilities, making it a great scavenger of free radicals. Anti-cancer research has also found that Capsicum does demonstrate anticancer properties, as it inhibits certain enzymes that initiate the mutation of cells. This implies that taking Capsicum can give the body some protection against cellular mutation.
Capsicum has also been found to be an impressive pain killer, an anesthetic to ulcerated tissue, an aid in weight loss, a helper in psoriasis and rhinitis, and a reliever of fevers and chills. The list goes on and on, about the benefits of this amazing herb. Cayenne or red pepper can be found at your local health food store.
Date:
October 27, 2008 04:21 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Guar Gum Fiber
Guar gum is what is known as a soluble fiber, and it is well known that it promotes a healthy colon. You will not find soluble fiber in what you believe to be 'high fiber foods', yet it is a very important part of your diet, particularly if you have problems with your colon such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or even colon cancer.
Traditional high fiber foods, such as bran, leafy vegetables and cereals, contain insoluble fiber that mechanically act as an aid to digestion and the movement of your food through your gastrointestinal system. Soluble fiber, on the other hand, is found in what are more commonly regarded as starchy foods, although unlike starch, the chemical bonds that attach the various sugar molecules together cannot be broken by the acids and enzymes used by your gastric system to digest them.
They thus pass through the body undigested, in the same way as insoluble fibers, and so contribute to the mechanical system upon which the peristaltic pumping motion of the intestine depends. Because it is not digested, soluble fiber contains practically no calories since it does not contribute to the metabolism of your body. Fiber imparts many benefits in addition to enabling your intestine peristalsis to move your food through your digestive system.
For a start they don't contribute to your nutrition, either negatively or positively, but provide bulk to what you eat and provide help to your bowel movements by giving the intestinal muscles something to bite on. One of the benefits of such foods is their effect on your blood sugar and preventing the onset of diabetes. They can also help you to avoid obesity through providing virtually calorie-free bulk to your meals. Some fibers can bind chemically to toxins and certain fats, and can clean out your colon. So what's the benefit of soluble fiber over the insoluble type, and where does guar gum enter the equation?
Basically, soluble fiber is water soluble while insoluble fiber is not. Insoluble fiber is contained in cereals, beans and peas, fruits and in fact anything that doesn't dissolve in water, even when acted upon by that concentrated hydrochloric acid that is the basis of your digestive juices. Soluble fiber can help to prolonging the time that your Stomach acids and enzymes spend in digesting your food. Soluble fiber is reported as conferring many health benefits, and guar gum and pectin are two of its major forms.
Guar gum is obtained from the guar bean, indigenous to India and Pakistan, but also grown in the USA, China Africa and Australia. The bean is edible to humans, and also used as cattle feed and fertilizer. TO obtain the gum, the seeds are dehusked and milled, and the gum is a whitish powder, not gummy as you might believe. However, when dissolved in water it gels when it comes into contact with calcium or borax.
It is effective as a laxative, due to the bulk it forms when dissolved in water, and can relieve not only constipation, but is also an effective treatment for IBS, Crohn's disease, colitis and other conditions of the lower digestive tract. Because it enables the colon to eject toxins and other undesirable waste products much more rapidly, guar gum is good for the health of your colon, and absorbs not only toxins but also undesirable bacteria.
Guar gum is what is known as thermogenic: it helps your body to burn fat by converting it to energy, with a resulting increase in your body heat. Not only that, but because it contains very little calorie content, it can bulk up a meal, help to make you feel satisfied and lower the glycemic index of your meal. It is used in many types of weight loss products and diets, although its uncontrolled use can be dangerous due to the potential blockage of your esophagus through insufficient fluid intake. For that single reason you are unable to purchase guar gum in non-prescriptive weight loss products.
Another of the benefits of soluble fiber, and guar gum in particular, is that it accelerates the absorption of calcium in the colon. Since calcium is normally absorbed in the small intestine, as opposed to the colon, this is good news for those seeking to lose weight. The reason for that is that the dairy products which traditionally contain most calcium tend to be high in calories, and guar gum enables you to get your RDA of calcium from a diet lower in these products by maximizing the calcium extraction and absorption right through the intestinal tract, and not only in the small intestine.
It has also been found to improve your tolerance to glucose. One of the problems that diabetics have is that sugars are absorbed mainly in the small intestine, whereas guar gum also enables it to be absorbed in the colon. Therefore, while the overall absorption level remains constant, there are no peaks and troughs since the absorption is constant through the entire intestinal tract rather than all the demand being in the small intestine. There is therefore less of a demand for insulin at certain times after a meal, so that the overall level of blood insulin can be reduced.
Guar gum is used as a delivery medium for certain drugs. Where it is desirable for a drug to be released into the colon as opposed to any other part of the gastrointestinal tract, this is the ideal substance. Guar gum can be degraded, if not digested, by anaerobic bacteria (bacteria that live in the absence of oxygen). Certain drugs can be attached to the guar gum molecule, and after consumption will pass unchanged through the Stomach, duodenum and small intestine.
However, when it reaches the colon, the anaerobic bacteria that populate the large intestine degrade the gum, and release the drug molecules into the colon where they are needed. There are a number of delivery techniques in addition to using the gum itself, including using derivatives of guar gum, using a combination of the gum and other polymers and also multiparticulate delivery techniques.
Partially hydrolyzed guar gum also seems to increase the population of your bowel with friendly bacteria, or probiotics, such as lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. These can help to prevent or reduce the symptoms of many bowel conditions, and probiotic drinks taken with guar gum can be extremely beneficial to people suffering the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and other similar disorders of the lower intestinal tract.
So if you have a disorder of your lower intestine or colon, try a soluble fiber such as guar gum as a natural treatment, and where appropriate also take that with a probiotic. Most people find that their symptoms improve and in many cases they disappear altogether.
Date:
September 10, 2008 03:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Colon Health
A healthy colon is the basis for a healthy body, with most of not realizing exactly how important a healthy colon is for obtaining and maintaining optimal wellness. When searching for a healthy body, colon health should be a primary concern, as it is the source for a lot of diseases and health problems. A healthy body depends on the maintenance of a healthy digestive system and elimination. Since food is the primary source of fuel for the body, if the wrong foods are eaten, the body will not function as it should.
The nutrients, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids, carbohydrates, and lipids that are found in the foods we eat are what give us the energy and resources that keep us alive. Sadly, the foods we eat are also loaded with toxins and unnecessary substances that prevent our body from removing waste properly. A healthy colon means a healthy body, so learning natural methods to achieve colon health is extremely important. Nutritious eating habits, cleansing diets, fiber sources, herbal remedies, and nutritional substances can all contribute to the body’s well-being.
The food we eat ultimately determines how efficiently our entire body system works, with digestion being the body’s first line of defense against foreign invaders that cause disease. The digestive system is also responsible for supplying cells with the nutrients and compounds that they need. There are many factors that contribute to digestive disorder including overeating cooked food and not enough raw foods, constipation, wrong combination of food, caffeine, alcohol, tobacco, sugar and sweets, white flour products, stress, any imbalance in the body, lack of hydrochloric acid and enzymes, Candida overgrowth, colon and liver congestion, allergies, hiatal hernia, gallbladder problems, ulcers, and heart problems.
Americans usually cause the most harm to themselves because of the types and amounts of food that they eat. In order to break down food, the body uses hydrochloric acid that is found in the Stomach. This acid is actually strong enough to dissolve metal and is used in the Stomach to neutralize the inappropriate substances, toxins, and bacteria that enter the body through the food that we eat daily. On occasion, the Stomach and the acid inside breaks down and digestive malfunctions result.
There are many nutrients that are recommended to assist in proper digestion. Digestive enzymes are critical for digestion of any food, with acidophilus being important for proper bowel function. Hydrochloric acid is crucial for the assimilation of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and calcium. B-complex vitamins promote a healthy digestive tract and assist enzymes in the metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Sodium, which is stored in the Stomach wall and joints, neutralizes the acidity in the body and is needed when there is a deficiency of hydrochloric acid.
With out hydrochloric acid in the Stomach, calcium, an essential mineral can not break down and is not properly absorbed in the Stomach. Fiber, essential for proper digestion and elimination of food, reduces the absorption of fat, inhibits bad estrogens from absorbing into the bloodstream, and helps to maintain a healthy digestive tract.
Additionally herbal aids such as capsicum, garlic, gentian, ginger, goldenseal, licorice, papaya, and psyllium powder are great for assisting with digestion. Taking a good digestive enzyme is the first step to promoting a healthy digestive system and properly function colon. As we age, digestive functions will decline which causes disorders such as fatigue due to mal-absorption. Those over 50 should take a digestive aid on their heaviest meal to ensure that proper digestion is happening and good health will continued free form disease.
Date:
September 03, 2008 09:17 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Colostrum
Over the past several decades there have been many shifts in the research that concerns the immune system of the body. Recent discoveries have found that colostrum carries agents that can positively affect immune function in humans.
An impressive body of research has found that colostrum is responsible for the first transmission of immune signals in a newborn, which are valuable in shaping the knowledge of the newborn’s defense systems. When an infant is born, the immune system is somewhat naive to the various invaders that try to break down its defense systems and take over the body.
Since colostrum is the first food that the body traditionally takes in, the information that the mother has collected over her life of how to fight microbial invaders, cancerous cells, and other toxins effectively is immediately transferred to her newborn. At a time when the infant is vulnerable to thousands of invaders, nature provides a way to help the infant in the process of building his or her immune system in a quick and effective way. Colostrum is an essential part to this complex and timely process.
As soon as an infant is born, it is generally fed, with the first portion of fluid that comes from the mother being colostrum. It was thought by experts for decades that colostrum contained only vital nutrients in a nutritional sense, but many now believe that breast-feeding a child is much more beneficial than simply bottle-feeding a child with formula. It has now been discovered that colostrum is much more than a nutrient-rich fluid, it is a combination of immune agents.
This mix of nutrients contains agents that are not species-specific in their function, so they do not produce an allergic reaction when introduced to a foreign species. Some of the more prominent and devastating conditions that could be effectively prevented by the use of colostrum and its properties include viral and bacterial infections, parasitic infections, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, fungal infections, tissue damage, as well as many others.
The body uses an assortment of processes, mechanisms, and agents in order to defend itself. All of these make up what is known as the immune system. The body uses three interrelated functions making its defense mechanism effective. First, it recognizes foreign agents within the body, followed by enlisting a variety of cells and molecules to eliminate or neutralize the invader. Last, the body is able to remember the exact foreign substance so that next time it comes around; it can deal with it quickly and effectively.
If the invading organism is able to get through the physical barriers of the skin and mucous membranes in the nose and throat, there are several immune barriers that are ready to defend the body including the body’s temperature, hydrochloric acid found in the Stomach, and interferon. Hydrochloric acid, along with the low pH of the Stomach, defeats a large majority of viruses that make it past the mucous membranes of the nose and throat.
Interferon is derived from the virus of infected cells and binds and neutralizes nearby virus cells. If there is enough interferons present, this substance can neutralize large quantities of invading viruses. Colostrum helps the body manufacture interferons that can fight viruses and protect the body for a lifetime.
Date:
August 12, 2008 01:37 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Vitamin C
Vitamin C is the most widely taken nutritional supplement on the market and is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, drink mixes, crystals in capsules or bulk powdered crystals. Vitamin C is present in mother's milk and, in lower amounts, in raw cow's milk, with pasteurized milk containing only trace amounts. This vitamin is most present in the liver and least present in the muscle but needed through out the body.
Vitamin C is required for the synthesis of collagen, an important structural component of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, skin, and bone. Vitamin C can regenerate other antioxidants such as vitamin E; in the body vitamin E can regenerate C as well. This vitamin is required for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. Relatively large doses of vitamin C may cause indigestion, particularly when taken on an empty Stomach.
It has been shown that smokers who have diets poor in vitamin C are at a higher risk of lung-borne diseases than those smokers who have higher concentrations of Vitamin C in the blood. Biological tissues that accumulate over 100 times the level in blood plasma of vitamin C are the adrenal glands, pituitary, thymus, corpus luteum, and retina.
Studies suggest the presence of large quantities of sugar either in the intestines or in the blood can slow absorption of this vitamin. Several studies have demonstrated a blood pressure lowering effect of vitamin C supplementation. Also, when consumed in high doses it appears to interfere with the blood thinning effects of warfarin by lowering prothrombin time, as noted in case reports in the 1970s so consult your doctor if on medications..
In one Study, researchers instructed patients with documented coronary artery disease to take a single oral dose of either 2 g vitamin C or a placebo. Results, the researchers discovered that high doses of vitamin C can help prevent blood platelet sticking and fight cholesterol oxidation. Also, researchers discovered this vitamin can reduce the formation of potentially carcinogenic nitrogen-containing compounds in the Stomach, offering protection from Stomach cancer, researchers have reported.
French and German researchers found that vitamin C appeared to keep cells in the blood vessel wall from dying. The researchers, who studied immune indicators, such as serum immunoglobulin and neutrophil phagocytosis (how well your white blood cells can engulf and digest foreign bodies), concluded that vitamin C exerts a remarkable immuno-modulating action, in other words, improved immune function in all those who consumed vitamin C on a regular basis.
What are deficiency symptoms for vitamin C?
Scurvy is a disease resulting from lack of vitamin C, since without this vitamin, the synthesized collagen is too unstable to perform its function. Scurvy was common among those with poor access to fresh fruit and vegetables, such as remote, isolated sailors and soldiers. The amount of vitamin C required to prevent “chronic disease” appears to be more than that required for prevention of scurvy which is 30 – 60 milligrams per day. Based on scientific research, vitamin C also appears to improve oral absorption of iron, which is good news for those that are anemic.
Half of us in the United States will die from heart disease. The foundation of heart disease is atherosclerosis, the narrowing of our arteries with plaque. Treatment with vitamin C has consistently resulted in improved dilation of blood vessels in individuals with atherosclerosis as well as those with angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Researchers believe this protection from cell death could explain previous study findings which suggest that vitamin C benefits blood vessel function in people with congestive heart failure.
Vitamin C supplements are also generally regarded as safe in most individuals in recommended amounts, although there are rarely reported side effects including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, abdominal cramps, and headache. In addition, this vitamin is required for the synthesis of l-Carnitine, a small amino acid that is essential for the transport of fat to cellular organelles called mitochondria, for conversion to energy. If you have chronic fatigue syndrome, vitamin C may help by boosting energy production through the mitochondria.
Therefore, as in many studies of vitamin C intake and cardiovascular disease risk, it is difficult to separate the effects of vitamin C on stroke risk from the effects of other components such as diet and the consumption of fruits and vegetables. As with all dietitians an emphasis on the benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is important to maintain a healthy cardiovascular system. If one can not consume fruits and vegetables on a daily basis then supplementation of vitamin C is need in either capsule of tablet to fight the risk of disease.
Date:
July 09, 2008 11:46 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Important Is It To Have Proper Digestion
The part played by food in the health of your body is to furnish it with the nutrients needed for the biochemistry that keeps you alive. The digestive process breaks the food that you eat down into a form that can be absorbed by your bloodstream, and from there to your liver which is your body’s chemical plant. That is where most of the biochemical reactions of your body take place, such as the manufacture of bile needed to break down fats during digestion.
Most people do not take this into account when eating, and in today’s hectic world nourishment is the last thing on their minds, yet the one aspect of their lives that can provide them with the energy to carry on as they do. They eat to get rid of the feeling of hunger, and any old thing will do: a burger or a pizza, but rarely an orange or some cheese on wholegrain bread.
Poor eating habits lead to poor digestion, which in turn leads to poor extraction of the nutrients from what we do eat, and therefore malnutrition. Yes, malnutrition! It is possible to suffer from that even though you fill your belly every day. It’s not the filling that matters, it’s what does the filling and how well it is digested. Proper digestion is very important to every living creature on this planet. The first step in ensuring that have a proper digestion function is to assess the quality of the food that you eat:
a) What nutrients does your food contain, and
b) Have you sufficient of the proper enzymes needed to break it down so that these nutrients can be extracted?
Nourishing meals are just as easy to find and eat as junk foods, and it is just as easy to a breakfast containing a high protein and fat content as it is to eat a chocolate biscuit. A hard boiled egg with whole meal toast and yoghurt isn’t difficult to prepare for breakfast, and some tuna, or cheese and whole meal crackers make a nutritious lunch. These foods are easier to digest than the greasy high-fat foods that most people eat at lunchtime.
Proper digestion requires relaxation, and eating when stressed or in a hurry creates the wrong pH conditions in your Stomach, with hydrochloric acid production being suppressed and the production enzymes by the liver inhibited. Enzymes are essential to your health, and are types of protein that enable most biochemical reactions to take place. Without the proper production of enzymes, your food will pass through your body largely unchanged, and this indigestion can not only give you Stomach pains but also weaken you because the nutritional value of your food is not being realized.
You should take the time to eat, and not try to eat on the job: that is why so many high fliers end up with ulcers. Take time to chew, and mix your food with saliva which itself contains the enzymes amylase and lysozyme. Amylase breaks down starch into sugars, while lysozyme inhibits the growth of oral bacteria. The digestive system therefore begins in the mouth when you chew your food. The breakdown of food into smaller particles also produces more surface area from which the nutrients can be absorbed.
Enzymes are very important to proper digestion, and your diet should include enzyme-rich food such as tropical fruits (pineapple and bananas), honey, and many vegetables. Yoghurt and lacto-fermented foods are also rich in enzymes, and many cooked foods also contain enzymes. An enzyme supplement can also be taken to top-up what you eat, and make up for any enzyme deficiency in your diet. Processed foods are fairly empty of good nutritional value, particularly enzymes, which is why so many people are so overweight: their food is a nutritional desert and their body keeps craving for food that leads to eating binges.
For your food to be properly digested your Stomach acid has to be at a certain pH. If you drink too much liquid when eating then the acid will be diluted, and you will not properly digest your food. A glass of water is fine but two or three pints of beer, or a gallon of fruit juice, will dilute the hydrochloric acid concentration in your Stomach, and it will not be able to break down your food. Consequently, your digestive system loses much of the nutritional content of what you eat. Restrict heavy drinking of liquid to about two hours before and two hours after eating each meal for maximum efficiency. Many people find that they have to take not only vitamin and mineral supplements to replace those which are lost through inefficient digestion, but also other supplements such as enzymes and extra proteins.
When food is processed or cooked, the process destroys enzymes. Since the body stores only a limited supply of enzymes, eating well cooked or highly processed foods continuously, places great strains on the enzyme reserves, and ultimately the metabolic enzyme reserves have to be used in order to digest your food. This diverts them from their proper purpose, and many of the functions of your body are disrupted.
For example, your lose energy and your immune systems begins to weaken, making you feel tired and more susceptible to illness and disease. You should therefore try to eat foods rich in enzymes, or use an enzyme supplement. Natural raw foods are an excellent addition to your diet, and salads and fruit should be regular components of your meals. Obviously you must eat some cooked foods, but that does not mean that you should avoid eating fresh raw fruits and vegetables altogether. That is a recipe for a dietary disaster.
Enzymes are extremely important components of your digestive system, as is dietary fiber. In fact if you eat a diet containing dietary fiber, some raw fruit and vegetables, and protein, either cooked or uncooked, you will be giving your digestive system a boost. If you are unable to maintain that, then enzyme supplementation, together with general multi-vitamin and mineral supplement daily, should help you to maintain a healthy digestive system. However, fiber is essential since without it you will become constipated, especially if you consume a lot of pulpy foods that mainly consist of water.
It is extremely important that you have proper digestion of the food that you eat, and that your body makes the best use of the nutrients that it contains. To achieve this, you have to maintain the correct pH of Stomach acid, and eat foods with the nutritional content required by the human body. This means not overcooking a balanced diet containing protein, fiber, enzymes and other nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals (plant-based chemicals).
Date:
May 23, 2008 11:53 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Licorice Root
Medical professionals, especially in Europe and Japan, have been using licorice more and more in medicine. The Chinese consider licorice to be a superior balancing and harmonizing agent, so it is added to many herbal formulas. It is reputed in many countries, including the United States, to be a treatment for Stomach, intestinal and many other problems. What is it used for?
Antioxidant Properties
Licorice is being studied for its effects against oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which is a major component in atherosclerosis. Approximately 300 different phytonutrient compounds found in natural licorice are considered possible antioxidants.
Anti-Viral Properties
Licorice is being tested for its ability to help prevent certain viruses from replicating themselves in body cells. It appears to stimulate the immune system into producing interferon, which is known for its anti-viral effects. It is an effective aid in treating herpes and hepatitis. Promising results are also being reported in tests using licorice to combat SARS, influenza and HIV.
Stomach and Intestinal Problems
Licorice is a natural home remedy for heartburn, gastritis and acid reflux. It helps to promote new cell growth in the lining of the Stomach. It also enhances the Stomach's self-protecting abilities. Licorice has been used to treat peptic ulcers and aid in healing other types of ulcers.
Throat and Respiratory Problems
Licorice is widely known in the world of alternative medicine as an expectorant and cough suppressant. Colds and flu have been treated with licorice since the days of the Romans. Many over-the-counter cough medicines contain licorice extract because it soothes the mucous membranes.
Other Medicinal Properties
* Cleansing the colon
* Supporting lung health
* Promoting adrenal gland function
* Soothing sore throats
* Lowering Stomach acid levels
* Coating the Stomach wall
* As a laxative
* As a diuretic
* Stopping flatulence
* Relieving rheumatism
* Relieving arthritis
* Regulating low blood sugar
* Treating Addison's disease
* Treating symptoms of menopause
* Regulating menstruation
* Relieving menstrual cramps
* Possibly reducing the occurrence of night sweats
* Balancing hormones
* Healing cold sores and canker sores
The Romans made licorice extract. Chinese herbalists use licorice for treating a wide range of conditions. Its confectionery use originated in England in the 16th century. The roots are used to flavor fruit juices and syrups. They are also used to flavor alcoholic drinks such as Sambuca and Guiness beer.
Is Licorice Safe?
Licorice is not recommended for use by people who suffer from diabetes mellitus, heart disease, hypertension or kidney disease. It is also not recommended for use by women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Side Effects
Licorice, although not thought to suppress the immune system like pharmaceutical cortisones, may cause similar side effects in high doses. Some of these include weight gain, fluid retention and high blood pressure.
Description and Cultivation
The licorice plant stands up to five feet tall. It has spikes of lilac-colored flowers that have bean-like pods containing three or four seeds apiece. The root, which is used most frequently, reaches underground about three feet and branches into networks of rhizomes.
After three to five years, the roots and rhizomes are cleaned, pulped, boiled and then concentrated by evaporation. The root, if kept dry, will keep for an indefinite amount of time. If the licorice is powdered, it should be stored in an airtight container.
Licorice has been used for centuries in conjunction with established medicine, as an alternative herbal medicine, and as an herbal confection in many parts of the world. It is noted for its medicinal value in treating Stomach, intestinal and other ailments, including helping to stimulate the immune system. Studies are ongoing to discover more potential uses for this naturally sweet herb.
Date:
April 18, 2008 11:38 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fight Heart Burn
In a search to promote a long and healthy life, a lot of Americans forget about their Stomachs, which results in things ranging from simple heartburn to ulcers and even cancer. The effects of alcohol, smoking, and stress added to the rate of infection create the perfect conditions for Stomach distress and disease. A combination of four nutrients: zinc, carnosine, licorice extract, and cranberry, work together to protect Stomach function from the environment. These nutrients not only relieve distress, but they also support the body’s natural defense mechanisms against inflammation and the changes that can lead to cancer. A fifth nutrient, picrorhiza, protects the mucosa and can now be included as part of a natural gastric health remedy.
The human Stomach, with its extreme acidity, provides a primary defense against infection and also helps in the first stages of digestion. A thick coating of protective mucus is steadily secreted by the surface mucous cells in the Stomachs lining to continually protect its self from Hydrochloric acid. Almost everyone has experienced some kind of “upset Stomach”, which we associate with overindulgence foods and stress. Although these are only thought of as mild annoyances, each episode causes a bit more lasting damage, which eventually results in cellular injury, which in turn causes inflammation. This inflammation then produces free radicals, which go on to create more tissue destruction and eventually damage DNA, thus potentially leading to cancers of the Stomach worst case.
Many natural substances have been used around the world for thousands of years to promote Stomach health. Modern science is finding that some of these “folk remedies” actually have potent effects on boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and simply improving physical protection of the Stomach lining. Zinc, a micronutrient that has multiple functions in human biology, mainly functions as a defender against free radical damage. It has been found that the more severe the inflammation in people is directly related to lower levels of zinc in individuals.
Zinc also helps to stabilize the membranes of cells that release burst of inflammatory cytokines when they are stimulated by injury or allergy. This mineral is also a well known immune modulator, which can reduce the recurrence rate of certain inflammation-sensitive cancers. There’s no doubt that zinc is a potent anti-inflammatory, and gastroprotective nutrient, but when it is added to amino acid carnosine, these effects can be boosted even further.
Certain fruits, cranberries particularly, are rich in anthocyanins, which have extreme antioxidant abilities. Other compounds that are found in cranberries also prevent bacteria from settling in the urinary tract. A review by nutritional experts found that regular intake of cranberry juice and other dietary products may be an alternative solution for those people who are at risk for H. pylori colonization. It also seems as though cranberries and there extracts can be placed alongside zinc-carnosine as an important component of an effective Stomach health regimen.
Licorice extracts have also been shown to help fight Stomach infection. Various studies have found that these extracts have potent anti-inflammatory activies, as they reduce cytokine production and increase the protection of the protective Stomach mucus. These characteristics, when placed alongside those of zinc-carnosine and cranberry extracts, provide hope that a basis for an alternative therapeutic agent fighting H. pylori can form.
Picrorhiza, which is already used to speed healing in other infections such as hepatitis A, demonstrates unique wound-healing properties, stimulating tissue growth, nerve cell recovery, and blood vessel formation. Even though the multi-armed approach to gastric protection and improved Stomach health seems to be complete with zinc-carnosine, cranberry, and licorice extract, picrorhiza extract brings together the infection-fighting, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and tissue-healing capabilities of multiple compounds, which all have complementary actions.
If you’re looking for a alternative approach to boost Stomach health, the vitamins and herbs listed above are a great starting point. Please do not discontinued prescription medication from your doctor, some cases of Stomach issues must be consulted with your doctor before discontinuing use.
Date:
March 21, 2008 12:19 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Boost digestion with Bifidus Longum and Acidophilus Probiotics
Prior to discussing how you can boost digestion with bifidus longum probiotics, let's first have a look at probiotics in general and why they are so beneficial to us.
Probiotics are also known as microflora, and are beneficial organisms that live in your digestive tract. Not all microorganisms are bad news, and many are essential for good health. Included in these organisms are various types of bacteria and yeasts, each of which has a specific part to play in the proper functioning of your body. Because of this they are found in foods all over the world, including yoghurt and fermented vegetables such as German sauerkraut and Korean kimchi.
Among their major benefits to health are that they help to support your immune system, they aid the digestion and absorption of food, they provide increased energy by improving the metabolic conversion of blood glucose to energy, and they can also help to delay aging. However, you should be aware that not all probiotics are the same, and when used properly some can have the same effect as antibiotics.
They are used to cure many digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and diarrhea, and can also help to relieve heartburn and acid reflux. In fact your lower intestine should contain a minimum of 85% friendly bacteria, and 15% at most of unfriendly bacteria that can cause disease if they over-colonize your colon. It might surprise you to learn that you have around twenty times more bacteria in your body than body cells.
One of the best known of the probiotics are members of the lactobacillus family that are contained in yoghurt and curds and whey, so Little Miss Muffet had the right idea. However, you might not have the right idea in eating commercial yoghurt because, while raw yoghurt does contain these helpful bacteria, the type that you buy in pots in the supermarkets has likely been pasteurized - a process that kills off the bacteria. Unless the product has been seeded with live bacteria after pasteurization, then there will likely be none in your yoghurt! Make your own!
So what are the probiotics that do you most good, and in what form should you consume them? The common friendly bacteria are the already mentioned lactobaccilus, and then lactococcus, streptococcus thermophilus, enterococcus, bifidobacterium and others. Bacteria are easily killed off by the acidic conditions in your Stomach, and since they must be taken live they should be consumed in a form that can resist the Stomach acid.
There are many ways in which they benefit you, the main ones that are currently understood being:
Lactic acid production: the presence of lactic acid in the gut prevents stops or slows the growth of harmful bacteria by increasing the acidity. Some probiotics, known as lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can do this. Most bacteria do not like acidic conditions.
Supporting the immune system: LAB bacteria have been shown to increase the production of cytokines that stimulate the activity of the macrophages that attack foreign viruses and pathogenic bacteria. The LAB also promotes the formation of NK-cells (natural killer cells) that destroy cells that have been infected by viruses.
Adhesion site blockage: bacteria attach themselves to your intestinal walls at specific adhesion sites. Friendly bacteria can colonize these sites and so prevent the pathogens from adhering.
Effect on the Intestinal wall: the intestinal wall has a natural mucous barrier that helps to prevent the passage of allergens and pathogens into the bloodstream through the intestine. Probiotics can strengthen this barrier, and also alter the nature of the mucous to render it less liable to penetration by these unwelcome visitors.
So where does bifidobacteria come into this? There is a number of strains of this bacterium living in the human body, but Bifidus longum is the most common or most abundant of these. Although it is the most common bacterium found in commercially available probiotic products, high numbers have to be consumed for the proper health benefits. However, commercial yoghurts contain very little of this bacterium, or even none at all. This is largely due to the pasteurization previously discussed, that kills the bacteria at high temperatures. Unfortunately this process is not selective, and in ridding the products of bacteria that could make you seriously ill, the beneficial bacteria are also destroyed.
This is a shame because Bifidus longum has been shown to inhibit E.Coli that can cause serious conditions of the digestive system. Among these are severe diarrhea and an inflammatory condition in the colon as the immune system tries to expel these nasty bacteria. This bacterium is particularly dangerous to the weak, such as the aged, children and people already weakened by illness.
It also helps to counteract yeast and other vaginal infections and when taken with other probiotics is believed to help in colon cancer cases. Among its other benefits are its part in the biosynthesis of thiamine, riboflavin and other vitamin B forms in your intestine, and also the absorption and assimilation of these vitamins by your body. It is also believed that it might help to reduce the cholesterol level in your body through its uptake of bile salts from the colon.
The major destructive elements of Bifidus longus are antibiotics of any kind, whether they be penicillin variants or tetracycline, and although the latter is used mainly for infections of the respiratory tract, it is ingested by the gut and effectively reduces the population of the bacteria that are needed for optimum health. That is one of the reasons why antibiotic use should be restricted to only what is necessary, and not use indiscriminately for all infections. Unless administered intravenously or site targeted, antibiotics kill off the good with the bad!
The other activities of Bifidus longus, such as removing the by-products of our metabolism that could be toxic if left to roam our bodies, render this bacterium as useful to your body as any vitamin or mineral supplement you could take. It is a supplement that many either overlook or are not even aware of, yet one that can make a significant difference, not only to your digestive and intestinal health, but also to you general overall wellbeing.
Date:
March 19, 2008 09:01 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fight Night Blindness, Boost Eye And Vascular Health With Bilberry
Weakness of blood vessels is often seen during the aging process when blood vessels become fragile. Dark bilberry fruit has been shown to reduce blood vessel permeability, improve capillary resistance, and provide antioxidant properties, to scavenge free radicals. One way to fight the aging process of the body is to promote health in the vascular system by eating nourishing foods, exercising, and learning how to handle stress. Evidence shows that eating five servings or more a day of fruit and vegetables can reduce the risk of heart disease, cataracts, and some other disorders that related to blood vessel health. The dark pigment in fruits and vegetables has many health advantages.
A lot of people think that the only way to improve blood vessel health is to reduce blood cholesterol, minimizing the risk of a heart attack. That is an essential goal, but blood vessels should also have strength and integrity to maintain their health in order to carry nutrients and oxygen through the body to feed the tissues. As we age, eye function begins to diminish and causes a lot of people to fear that they are losing their eyesight.
The blood vessels decline in function, but there are other factors such as the reduction of arrestin and rhodopsin. Arrestin is a protein while rhodopsin is the light sensitive pigment that can be found in the retina. The dark pigment of fruits and vegetables is extremely important to blood vessels and the health of the structures and proteins of the eyes. Brilliant colored fruits and vegetables may prevent strokes, heart disease, and help long-term vision because they improve integrity of blood vessels.
Bilberry fruit has been studied for over 40 years for its supportive effects on blood vessel health, blood circulation, and lymph flow. Blood vessels in the brain, heart, eyes, Stomach, veins in the legs, and actually anywhere in the body have the potential to leak. In many regions bilberry extract has been used to support individuals with microcirculatory disorders including varicose veins, atherosclerosis, and degenerative retinal conditions including macular degeneration and cataracts. Diabetes, atherosclerosis, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excess alcohol and an inability to handle stress can all contribute to blood vessel disorders and cause the capillary’s membrane to thicken, therefore, increasing capillary permeability causing edema and leaking of fluid.
During the aging process, oxidative damage occurs by free radicals in the eyes, which then causes a loss in the transparency of the lens. Symptoms that occur because of this are blurred vision, increased sensitivity to glare, reduced visual acuity, color perception, and light sensitivity. When the eye structure begins to break down, vision impairment and cataract formation result. Bilberry extract has been shown to improve vision and twilight vision, helping the retina adapt to darkness and glare.
With aging, a gradual degenerative process is experienced which is caused by free radical damage to our body’s genetic material, cell membranes, and tissues. Free radicals attack blood vessel endothelial cells, and they begin to rupture. Antioxidants help to prevent AMD and reduce the damage of the retina’s photo receptors. In summary, blood vessel health is an important part of age management. By improving diet, managing stress, exercising, and supplementing with bilberry extract, one can promote the health of blood vessels throughout the body, and therefore, support the eyes.
Date:
February 16, 2008 08:55 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Apple Cider Vinegar to Fight Heart Burn
Strange as it may seem, apple cider vinegar can be used to fight heart burn, even though that type of vinegar is composed of acetic acid the same as any other. It wouldn’t seem logical to use an acid to alleviate a condition caused by excess acidity in the Stomach, but all will be clear shortly.
First, let’s have a look at what cider apple vinegar is, and what health benefits it can impart to the body. There is more to the old maxim regarding an apple a day than most appreciate. Although an orange has more vitamin C, apples have a lot going for them. They not only contain the soluble dietary fiber and prebiotic pectin, that can help reduce blood cholesterol levels, but are also rich in vitamins and minerals. Many consider apple cider vinegar the form of the apple that provides its ultimate health benefits.
Hippocrates himself has written of the health benefits of apple cider vinegar and used it for the benefits to health that it imparted. That goes back almost 2400 years, to an age when the biochemistry of the body was unheard of and even the alchemists had yet to work their magic. There was no surprise then that an acid could be used to increase the alkalinity of the body since the terms had yet to be understood, let alone invented.
The later applications of vinegar followed a path that would be expected of a substance recognized as a form of medicine, and it has been poured over wounds to sterilize them from early in history, and by people of the 14th and 17th centuries to protect themselves against the Black Death and the Great Plague respectively. It was believed by people in these times that the disease was transferred by breathing in the ‘ill vapors’ and that a vinegar-soaked cloth over the face would protect them.
Many people, associate vinegar with ‘bad wine’ or solutions of acetic acid, generally 5%. But how is real cider apple vinegar produced? All vinegar has acetic acid as its key ingredient. The reason that it can be produced from wine is that acetic acid is produced naturally by the fermentation of ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, the main alcoholic product of the fermentation of sugars. If the fermentation of wine is allowed to continue after the sugar has been used up, then the yeast will act on the ethanol and convert it to acetic acid. In fact the word comes from the old French ‘vin aigre’ or ‘sour wine’, due to it resulting from the undesirable continuing fermentation of wine.
The concentration varies according to the use it is put, though commercial pickling vinegars can be distilled to any required concentration of acetic acid. Apple cider vinegar is obtained by the over-fermentation of apple must usually used for cider, and can be obtained either the clear filtered form, or unfiltered with a hazy light brownish color. Although the manufactured distilled vinegars consist of acetic acid at various concentrations, natural vinegars contain by-products of the fermentation process such as citric and tartaric acids.
However, none of this explains why apple cider vinegar should help to cure heartburn. The first thing you should keep in mind is that this type of vinegar has some nutritional value that will be explained later, but also that it is less bitter than many other types of vinegar and many enjoy drinking it with a small amount of honey as an energy pick-me-up and also to prevent various digestive problems that it appears to alleviate such as bloating and diarrhoea.
The reason that many people experience heartburn is due to the body finding that that the acidity of the Stomach is lower than it should be to digest a meal. There might be several reasons for the body believing this, such as drinking too much milk during the meal and thereby neutralizing some of the acid while also introducing more fat to be digested. The body reacts by injecting more acid into the Stomach. Excessively spicy foods or alcohol can cause the same effect.
Stomach acid is concentrated hydrochloric acid that is very corrosive and can even dissolve a nail. If your Stomach is slightly full, the acid causes a slight, but not full, reflux and you get the burning sensation known as heartburn due to the corrosive effects of the very strong acid on the esophagus, which is not protected by the Stomach lining that is designed to withstand it. Sometimes the excessive acid in your Stomach will cause the bottom of the esophagus to open, allowing some of the Stomach contents into the esophagus giving the horrible burning sensation. That sensation is acid corrosion of your body tissue, but it is rapidly repaired and does no lasting damage unless it is chronic when you have to see your doctor.
Since heartburn is caused by excess acidity then, it will seem strange that you can use an acid to alleviate it. However, keep in mind that your heartburn is due to the body (brain) being convinced that there is insufficient acid in your Stomach. If you introduce a weak acid, then you can convince your brain that the acid has been brought to a satisfactory level and so it will stop sending signals to the Stomach lining cells that secrete the HCl.
If you remember what I asked you to remember above, regarding the traditional uses of apple cider vinegar and how easy it is to drink, then that vinegar is the ideal acid to take. It floods the Stomach with acetic acid and signals pass back and forth between the Stomach wall to the brain and back again to the effect that the Stomach has enough acid and so no more hydrochloric acid need be secreted.
Had you treated it with milk or even an antacid, it would have worked initially, but eventually the signal would be initiated and the lining would secrete more HCl. With an antacid that can occur after the Stomach contents have been passed on, but although it has had its effect, your food will have been poorly digested, and so the better remedy is likely not an alkaline antacid but a weak acid such as apple cider vinegar.
That’s how it works, but what other benefits does it bring to you. For starters it is a good source of potassium which is essential to maintain a proper cardiac rhythm. Potassium can also help to maintain a good blood pressure, and it is necessary for healthy nails, hair and teeth, and also helps to repair damage to soft tissues and to allow cells to repair internal tissue loss.
Potassium is an essential mineral, although there is normally sufficient in a healthy diet. However, if somebody is displaying the symptoms of potassium deficiency then this form of vinegar can help to resolve the problem. The elderly especially can benefit from a regular dose.
Other than its antiseptic effect, the most common popular use of apple cider vinegar, however, is to fight heart burn and in that respect it is very effective, even if it seems a bit of a paradox.
Date:
January 29, 2008 10:30 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Detox your Body with Wasabi Rhizome
The Wasabi rhizome, the underground fleshy stem of the wasabia japonica plant, is prized not only for its fiery flavour but also its effect in detoxifying the liver. However, make sure that you are getting the real McCoy since many restaurants in the USA do not use the genuine paste.
The wasabi is a plant of the cruciferous family, the same family as cabbage, broccoli, turnip, radish, horseradish and mustard, and is native to Japan and Korea and now grown on the Pacific coast of Canada. It grows best in temperate to cold climates, especially in mountainous areas where there are plenty of cold streams.
Anybody who regularly enjoys sashimi and sushi should be familiar with the wasabi rhizome, that green lump of paste lying on the side of the plate. It is hot and fiery, although not in the same way as the chilli pepper that is fiery on the tongue and in the mouth. This tends to affect the sinuses more, and leaves a sweetish taste once the initial heat has dissipated. However, it is not always what it should be.
The last comment there refers to the practise, especially in the USA, of using dyed common horseradish as wasabi paste, so be careful of that since the two are not equivalent in the health benefits they impart to your body. Although of the same family as the horseradish, and sometimes termed the Japanese horseradish, ordinary horseradish does not have the same health benefits as genuine wasabi, and does not contain the same active ingredients so do not confuse the two.
Real wasabi is normally used grated, and there are specific techniques that should be used to grate wasabi rhizomes to bring out the fullness of the flavour. True grated wasabi should be of a natural pale greenish color rather than the brighter green normally associated with sushi restaurant wasabi.
Traditionally, wasabi rhizome is used as a condiment with sushi, although their leaves can also be used in salad dressings and or as a delicacy pickled in soy sauce or sake brine. The genuine vegetable is difficult to cultivate which explains why ordinary horseradish is dyed and used in its stead, and the vast majority of non-Japanese do not know the difference because it is likely to be all they have consumed under the name of wasabi. The health benefits of the genuine article, however, are considerable greater.
So that’s what it is, but what does it do? What are the health benefits of wasabi rhizomes and why are they considered to be so good for your liver? Wasabi rhizomes contain substances that are very effective in detoxifying you liver, and that are also very strong antioxidants that provide you with good overall health benefits in their capacity to destroy the free radicals created by the pollution of modern living.
The active antioxidants in the rhizome are precursors of isothiocyanates, which are known as phytochemicals. These are chemicals that can protect or prevent diseases through its antioxidant properties. The term ‘precursor’ means that the isothiocyanates are synthesized by your body from the nutrients contained in the wasabi rhizome. Other examples of phytochemicals that you may have heard of are carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols that also possess antioxidant properties.
Other antioxidants are vitamins A and E, which is why these are used in anti-wrinkle creams, since their anti-oxidant effect helps to prevent the free radicals destroying the skin cells in the dermis and epidermis that leads to the wrinkles associated with aging. Wasabi is equally effective as an antioxidant, although it has other properties that are important to your liver.
The liver is your body’s chemical plant. That is where most of the chemical reactions take place that are essential for life. If your liver is unhealthy you can develop diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, and a healthy liver is essential for life let alone a healthy life. Wasabi helps to detoxify and clean out your liver.
Apart from creating the wide variety of enzymes needed to process your food, and controlling the vast majority of the biochemistry of your body, your liver is also your detoxification plant that coverts toxins into biodegradable molecules that your waste disposal system can evacuate without harm. This occurs in two phases.
Phase I coverts the toxin to a form that your body can further process (the bioactive form), and Phase II breaks it down into a form that your kidneys can handle and eject it in your urine. Isothiocyanates are involved in the production of the enzymes that enable the chemical reactions of Phase II to proceed. They allow your body to cleanse itself of toxins, and without this process you would be less healthy and more prone to cancers and other undesirable conditions and diseases in your body.
It is becoming more important in this modern age with its increasing natural and synthetic pollution that your liver is working at peak efficiency. Your liver is equally as important to you as your heart and brain, and without it you cannot survive. Wasabi also contains glucosinolates that help the isothiocyanates to induce the production of Phase II enzymes, and it is general believed that eating this tuber cab help protect you against Stomach, colon and breast cancers as well as help your cardiovascular system and blood clotting.
An interesting fact is how wasabi rhizome came to be traditionally served with raw fish. The isothiocyanates precursors, and the glucosinolates that wasabi also contains, apparently help to destroy the bacteria associated with raw fish, and help prevent disease and illness. It was likely found healthier to include a dollop of this green paste with your sushi than not, and so the use of common horseradish might be somewhat questionable if it has less of an effect.
Make sure, therefore, that your have the real thing, and apart from any specific health considerations associated with eating raw fish, you are best advised to take it as a supplement to help Detox your liver rather than visit sushi bars for your consumption. It will also help your wallet!
Date:
January 21, 2008 02:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Genetically Engineered Foods May Cause Rising Food Allergies
Arguments made by the Environmental Protection Agency, which regulates plant produced pesticides, tell us not to worry about the thought of consuming toxic pesticides. Instead, they say that the pesticides used, Bt, are produced naturally from a soil bacterium which has a history of safe use by organic farmers who have used the solution for yeas as a method of insect control. Genetic engineers simply remove the gene that produces Bt and insert it into the DNA of corn and cotton plants, making the plant do the work, instead of the farmer. They also say that the Bt toxin is quickly destroyed in our Stomach, and even if it survived would not harm humans or any other mammals. However, these arguments are solely that, arguments, which are unsupported and refuted according to a lot of research.
When a study was done, spraying natural Bt over areas in Vancouver and Washington State for months, about 500 people reported reactions, mostly those being allergy or flu-like symptoms. Six of those people had to go to the emergency room, while workers who applied the Bt sprays reported that their eyes, nose, and throats were irritated. Similarly, farmers who were exposed to liquid Bt said that they had reactions such as infection, ulcers on the cornea, skin irritation, burning, swelling, and redness. One woman even reported fever, altered consciousness, and seizures when she was accidentally sprayed with Bt. This proves that the statements of Bt doing no harm on humans is extremely false. As for being destroyed in the digestive system, studies on mice disproved this as well. Results of these, and other, studies showed that plant-produced Bt is always active and much more likely to trigger an immune response than the natural version.
Additional studies in 2005 reported by medical investigators in India found that hundreds of agricultural workers are developing severe allergic reactions when they are exposed to Bt cotton. This exposure includes picking cotton, loading it, cleaning it, or simply leaning against it. Some people that work at ginning factories must take antihistamines daily in order to go to work. These reactions are only trigger with the Bt varieties and the symptoms are virtually identical to those that were described by the 500 people in Vancouver and Washington who were sprayed with Bt.
Another study was done on the basis that Bt-toxin is produced in GM corn and can be eaten intact. It is also in pollen which can be breathed in. Therefore, a village of Filipino people were studied in 2003 when an adjacent Bt cornfield was pollinating. 100 of these people were stricken with disease which included symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, extreme Stomach pain, vomiting, chest pains, fever, and allergies, along with respiratory, intestinal, and skin reactions. The symptoms first appeared in those that were living closest to the field and then progressed to those further away. When the same corn was planted in four other villages the following year, the same symptoms returned in all four areas only during the time of pollination.
All of these studies confirm that GM crops engineered to produce built-in pesticides provoke a great variety of immune responses. Allergic reactions are a defensive and often harmful reaction from the immune system to an external irritant that occur when the body interprets something foreign as harmful and offensive and acts accordingly. Since all GM foods have something foreign and different, it is easy to see why the body would react in such ways. As the GM foods arise on the market place make sure you scan each label to make sure you are not buying a GM vegetable of fruit. Check every label this way you will not be stricken with debilitating symptoms that may prevent you from going to work. Always say NO to GM foods and support your organic foods store.
Date:
November 21, 2007 10:31 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Support A Healthy Digestive System With Discount Vitamins
Discount vitamins can help to support a healthy digestive system, but to explain how they do you first need to know how the system of pipes, tubes and chemical plants that make up the digestive system basically works.
The digestive system is a system of tubes through which your food is passed during the various stages of digestion, and also organs that produce the chemicals needed to break down your food into the nutrients needed by the body. The digestive system begins with the mouth, where the teeth cut and grind the food, and mix it with saliva containing the enzyme amylase that begins the digestive process by converting starch into maltose and dextrin, which are later converted to glucose. Amylase cannot work in the acidity of the Stomach, which is why you should chew starchy foods such as bread and potatoes before it is swallowed and passed down the esophagus to the Stomach.
The Stomach is a natural food processor, containing concentrated hydrochloric acid that breaks the food down into smaller molecules. Once the food has been mixed and processed it passes into the small intestine where the real digestion begins. The liver and pancreas manufacture digestive juices and pass them into the intestine as the food is expelled from the Stomach. These juices are mixed with the food, break it downs chemically into nutrients which are then absorbed through the walls of the intestine. The waste is passed into the colon, from which they are later expelled.
While in the Stomach, its glands produce not only the Stomach acid but also enzymes that break up proteins into smaller compounds including amino acids. The liver produces a number of digestive juices, including bile that dissolves fats and renders them water soluble to be digested by enzymes from the pancreas. The liver also produces enzymes that further breaks down the food in smaller molecules.
The whole process is controlled by the digestive hormones that are generated by the Stomach and small intestine, namely secretin, gastrin and CCK (cholecystokinin). These control the release of the various digestive juices and chemicals into the digestive system, and once the food has been broken down the nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the cells of the body where they are needed.
So, starting again from the top, how do discount vitamins and minerals help to support a healthy digestive system? First, we start with the teeth. It is essential for the proper use of food that it is shredded and ground properly before being passed to the body, and that the starches are broken down by the saliva enzyme amylase. The structure of your teeth is dependant on vitamin C and D, and the minerals calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. A deficiency in any of these would result in poor weak teeth, and your food would not be prepared properly for your Stomach.
Vitamin B1 keeps your nerves in good working order, without which your appetite could not be regulated. Vitamin B3, or niacin, keeps the digestive tract in a healthy state and functioning properly. Vitamin B9, or folate (folic acid) carries out a similar task, and the B complex vitamins in general, then, keep the digestion process working smoothly and the peristaltic motion that moves the food along, also in good working order.
Manganese and chromium are essential minerals to the digestive system, without which enzyme activity would be limited and without chromium your appetite could not be controlled. Apart from that there is a lot that can go wrong with the digestive system and a good vitamin B complex or Vitamin B1 and B3 supplement, will help to maintain the proper functioning of the system. These vitamins will encourage proper control of the intestinal muscle function, and vitamins C and E will help deal with any inflammation in the bowel, or undue immune system activity. Acidophilus will also help to maintain a good population of healthy bacteria that are essential components of your digestive system. A probiotic supplement taken as instructed should achieve this.
A little considered function of the digestive system, perhaps because it actually takes place in the liver rather than the alimentary canal itself, is the disposal from the body of toxin absorbed by the small intestine. This is the chemical transformation of certain molecules into a form whereby they can be rendered water soluble and expelled in the urine. Substances such as drugs, alcohol, paint fumes and so on are formed into other chemicals that might be even more toxic than the originals for a short time, and since oxidation is used in many of these reactions, free radicals might be formed that can harm the body.
This danger, which is indirectly caused by the digestion of these substances, can be relieved by maintaining a sufficient intake of antioxidants in the form of Vitamins A, C and E to neutralize them. Some liver disease is caused in this way by insufficient vitamin nutrition, and a good discount vitamin supplement can help to prevent it by destroying the free radicals as they are formed.
This detoxification process then proceeds to a phase where the biochemically converted molecules are rendered into the water soluble form so that they can dissolve in the blood and be extracted by the kidneys into the urine. For this, a good supply of the tripeptide glutathione, glycuronic acid and some amino acids is needed. A supplement of these should also help the detoxification process.
Other supplements that can help the digestive system are natural enzymes. These work whether taken on an empty Stomach or with food. On an empty Stomach, at least two hours after a meal, they will immediately go to work in your blood and improve its condition. Taken with a meal they will help digestion the fats and reduce food waste by improving absorption.
There are many ways in which you can help to maintain a healthy digestive system by the use of discount vitamins, although any problem with your digestive system should be referred to your physician since there are many serious conditions that need expert medical treatment. Vitamins, enzymes, probiotics and other supplements, however, can help to prevent many of these from occurring.
Date:
May 05, 2007 01:16 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Selecting the Right Probiotic is the Key to proper digestion
Selecting the Right Probiotic is the Key
Do you ever think about what goes into your body each day?You should.One of the key to feeling good and being healthy s eating nutritious food and making sure our gastrointestinal (GI) tract has the tools it needs to optimally digest and absorb nutrients.The GI tract includes the Stomach and intestines, which work to digest foods and eliminate waste.
A variety of “good” intestinal bacteria helps to keep the digestive system running.These “good” bacteria are called probiotic bacteria, or probiotics.Probiotics digest food, process waste, and keep the “bad” bacteria – which have the potential to cause disease and illness – in check.
This issue of Ask the Doctor will look at the probiotic bacteria that play an important role in maintaining our health and wellness: we need them, what they can do for us, and how to make sure we are getting enough.Also, we will talk about an exciting process that truly delivers probiotic bacteria taken in nutritional supplements.Encapsulated in a pearl-like sphere, they survive transport to the intestines, set up house, and exert their beneficial effects.As we will see, probiotic supplementation can help prevent and treat many different illnesses, unless the beneficial bacteria reach the intestines alive and active, the supplement is worthless.
Q. I thought bacteria were bad.How can bacteria be good for us?
A. Some kinds of bacteria do cause illnesses and disease in humans.“Strep” throat is an example of an illness caused by bacteria.
However, the majority of bacteria do not cause disease.In fact, there are types of bacteria that are actually beneficial.“Good” bacteria, known as probiotic bacteria, are used in the manufacturing of food and beverages.Some examples of foods that have probiotic food ingredients are buttermilk, yogurt, cheese, sausage, and acidophilus milk.
These same kinds of probiotic bacteria are present in our intestines and help to keep the digestive system running by digesting food and processing waste.
Q. What are probiotics?
A. Probiotics are live bacteria that are non-toxic and do not cause disease (non-pathogenic).
Some of the best-understood probiotic bacteria include members of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium groups.Because of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium’s ability to break down lactose, these probiotic bacteria are also known as lactic acid bacteria.Both of these types of probiotic bacteria are well studied and are available in both food and dietary supplements.
Q. Is there a difference between the probiotic bacteria that is found in yogurt, and in nutritional supplements?
A. Actually, the bacteria that are in yogurt, our intestine, and most natural supplements are the same types of probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacteria longum.Because of this, these bacteria are referred in a generic sense as probiotics.So, the term probiotics may refer to the “good” bacteria that are present in food or that live in our intestine, or that are part of a natural supplement.
Q. Where do these probiotic bacteria come from?
A. As recently as the middle of the last century, bacteria found naturally in food ingredients were used to make a fermented food product.For example, the example, the lactic acid bacteria found naturally in milk were used to make cheese.This was known as wild fermentation.
Wild fermentations are no longer used.Today, the probiotic bacteria used in food and natural supplements are harvested via a highly controlled fermentation process.This process results in high numbers of bacteria and ensures quality and purity of the bacteria.
A. Normal microflora (the term commonly used for intestinal bacteria) is associated with good health.An imbalance in this natural microflora (when the beneficial probiotics are outnumbered by the harmful bacteria) is frequently associated with various disease states such as yeast infections and colon cancer.
Eating foods or taking a nutritional supplement containing probiotic bacteria can help support and modify the composition of the large intestine microflora.Microflora of the large intestine assist digestion through fermentation (by making the intestines more inhospitable to invading bacteria species), protection against disease-causing bacteria, and stimulation of the immune system.
The probiotics, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, occupy a central role in the intestinal and provide health benefits.
Q. How do probiotic bacteria help with digestion?
A. Lactose is an important sugar that is converted to lactic acid by lactic acid bacteria.Lactose intolerance results from an inability to digest lactose, due to the failure of small intestine mucosal cells to produce lactase, an enzyme needed to digest lactose.This often results because of genetics, gastrointestinal disease, or because of the decline in the amount of intestinal lactase levels associated with aging.Lactase deficient people accumulate non-absorbed lactose in the gastrointestinal tract, which draws water and electrolytes into the gut and speeds waste through the intestines, leading to bloating, cramping, and diarrhea.
Approximately 50 million people in the United States have partial to complete lactose intolerance.The following chart illustrates the racial break down of lactose intolerance in this country.
Prevalence of Lactose Intolerance in the U.S.
95% of Native Americans
90% of Asian Americans
70% of African Americans
60% of Jewish Americans
50% of Mexican Americans
Less than 25% of Caucasian Americans (non-Jewish, non-Hispanic)
Lactic acid bacteria have been shown to help the breakdown of lactose, specifically by enhancing the activity of lactase (beta galactosidase), which improves lactose digestion and tolerance.Furthermore, in a randomized, controlled clinical trial, Bifidobacteria longum was shown to assist in the breakdown of lactose and relieve the symptoms of lactose intolerance (flatulence) in people with lactose intolerance.
Q. What is the difference between digestive enzymes and probiotics?Can they be taken together?
A. Digestive enzymes, such as protease, amalyse, and lipase, act upon food, breaking it down into simpler components that can be used by the body for energy.Without enzymes, digestion could not take place.Therefore, the food that we eat could not be absorbed and utilized by our bodies.
Probiotics help the enzymes to digest food and process waste.In essence, probiotic bacteria and enzymes work together to ensure that the digestive tract is running smoothly.When taken together, enzymes assure greater levels of digestion absorption of your food, and probiotic bacteria aid the enzymes in digestion and keep problems in check.
Q. Is helping to ensure a healthy digestive system the only use for probiotics?
A. Absolutely not!Probiotic bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, have been found to help prevent vaginal yeast infections in women that suffer from these reoccurring infections.
Approximately 35% of vaginal infections are caused by the yeast.Candida albicans, Candida, is a fungus that is a component of the normal gastrointestinal microflora.However, Candida must not be allowed to increase in numbers.An overgrowth is associated with adverse health effects like vaginal infections, oral thrush, or even serious systematic yeast infections.Probiotics have been shown to keep levels of Candida in check.
Probiotic bacteria have also been demonstrated to have anti-cancer properties.In baa clinical study, colon cancer patients given Lactobacillus acidophilus fermented milk showed a significant increase in numbers of intestinal Lactobacilli and a decrease in risk factors associated with colon cancer.
Patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can benefit from probiotic bacteria supplementation.Studies have shown that probiotic bacteria assist in maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis and preventing reoccurrence of Crohn’s disease.Manipulating the intestinal flora may prove to be more effective and better tolerated than the drugs that are conventionally given to treat these diseases.I one study, Lactobacillus acidophilus was found to improve the intestinal barrier and clinical status in children suffering from Crohn’s disease.
Probiotics supplementation can also improve and prevent skin disease, such as eczema.Studies have shown that probiotic bacteria can actually control inflammation associated with skin conditions.In one study, infants with eczema who were given probiotic-supplemented formulas showed a significant improvement in skin condition.
The chart below summarizes some of the diseases and conditions that probiotic bacteria can help prevent and/or improve.
Disease
Benefits of Probiotic Supplement
Vaginal yeast infections
Prevents vaginal yeast infections in women.
Colon Cancer
Decreases risk factors associated with colon cancer.
Crohn’s Disease
Found to improve the intestinal barrier in patients with Crohn’s disease.
Ulcerative Colitis
Helps to maintain disease remission in ulcerative colitis patients.
Eczema
Counteracts inflammatory responses outside the intestinal tract by preventing diseases such as eczema and dermatitis.
Q. How often should probiotics be taken to ensure optimal support of the digestion system?
A. Probiotic bacteria do not permanently colonize in the body.They need to be replenished by the consumption of foods containing probiotic bacteria or by taking a probiotic natural supplement.Whatever form you choose to replenish the intestinal probiotics, they need to be ingested daily for their health-promoting effects to continue.
Q. If I take a probiotic nutritional supplement, how many bacteria should a good quality supplement contain?
A. The critical factor is not how many bacteria that a supplement contains, but rather how many bacteria reach the intestines healthy, vigorous, and ready to work.
A good quality supplement will deliver at least 3 billion living, healthy probiotic bacteria per dose to your intestines.The bacteria in the probiotic natural supplement should be a mixture of both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria.
Again, the critical key to a good quality probiotic supplement is that the bacteria must be alive to work.Only living probiotic bacteria can colonize in the intestines.A good quality probiotic nutritional supplement will have GUARANTEED levels of live bacteria at the point of consumption.Inferior brands will merely state levels of live bacteria at the point of manufacture.
Recently, a private laboratory tested various probiotic nutritional supplements in the marketplace, including one utilizing a new process that encapsulates the bacteria in a spherical, pearl-like coating.Each of these supplements were best-selling brands, two of them were enteric coated, and all had label guarantees about potency.The lab counted the levels claimed by each manufacturer.
Q. Then how do I know I am getting what I pay for?
A. First, look for a product that has a “use by” date or an “expiration” date clearly stated on the package.
It is also important to look for a probiotic supplement that does not require refrigeration.Probiotic supplements that require refrigeration often have been subjected to warm temperatures during shipment and storage that will inevitably kill off some or all of the bacteria.
It is also important that the product label guarantees live bacteria at the time of purchase, not at the time of shipment or manufacturing.However, from the laboratory test discussed, we see that sometimes these written guarantees are not worth the paper they are written on.There is one scientifically validated process that truly delivers live and vigorous bacteria to the intestine.This process suspends the probiotic bacteria in a moist paste and immediately seals the bacteria in a perfectly seamless, spherical, gelatin ball.This bacterial paste is completely protected from air and dryness so the bacteria are alive until the specialized gelatin dissolves – in the intestines.
Q. Why is it important to dissolve only in the intestine?
A. Lactic acid bacteria are not very resistant to the acids of the Stomach.The harsh environment of the Stomach destroys the majority of these bacteria.
This pearly-like coating technology protects bacteria from the Stomach acid.The sphere is specially developed to only dissolve in the intestines.Enteric coating is not enough as it does nothing to protect the bacteria while they wait for purchase on the shelf.
Q. What does this proprietary coating technology mean to me?
A. This specialized process is an expensive processing step, but it has many advantages to you.
The pearl-shaped spheres actually “seal” the bacteria in the capsule, which protects them from air.Probiotic bacteria are anaerobic, meaning they do not require oxygen to live.In fact, the presence of oxygen can actually injure or kill probiotic bacteria.In addition, the special coating’s ability to seal the bacteria in the capsule stimulates the need for the nutritional supplement to be refrigerated – though they can be kept in the refrigerator, if desired.
By protecting the bacteria on the shelf and in the Stomach, the probiotic bacteria successfully reach the intestine.As a result, there will be a greater number of healthy, intact bacteria that can colonize in the intestine.
Conclusion
Many health care practitioners believe all health issues are related in some way to the process of digestion.Probiotics play a crucial role in improving our digestive health, which, in turn, is interconnected to every single function in our bodies.
Taking a probiotic supplement is an excellent way to replenish the good bacteria in your intestinal microflora. A quality probiotic product contains two different types of bacteria from Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria species with at least one billion live bacteria per dose.
But how do you know the bacteria re still alive?Look at the package.If there is no fate stamp, put it down.If it says the company guarantees there was a certain number alive at the time of manufacture, put it down.Tat means that the company is not willing to claim the bacteria are alive when delivered to the target site, the intestine.If the product must be constantly refrigerated, put it down.How do you know it didn’t sit in a truck for two days, or was in a warehouse before it was shipped to the health food store?
Find a probiotic that says the bacteria are guaranteed to be alive in the numbers stated on the label until the printed on the package.Find a product using unique, cutting edge science to deliver the probiotic bacteria in a form that uses spherical, sealed, triple coating to protect the bacteria.That company has gone to extra time and expense to make sure you reap the benefits that probiotics can offer.
Date:
January 28, 2007 08:41 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Betaine HCI and Pepsin
Betaine HCI and Pepsin
Betaine HCl is a form of HCl used as a nutrient to supplement the Stomach’s own production of HCl, or Stomach acid. While occasional indigestion may be a result of acid irritating tissue in the structure above the Stomach known as the esophagus, a line of research suggests that the cause of this irritation may actually be less than optimal Stomach acid production. Stomach acid is normally produced by the parietal cells of the Stomach and the function of Stomach acid is to break down food that enters the Stomach into smaller fragments and nutrient components. These components move through the Stomach into the small intestine where they are further broken down by digestive enzymes in the upper part of the small intestine. The individual nutrients that result from the digestion of proteins, fats and carbohydrates can then be absorbed and assimilated by the body and used for metabolism and growth. However, optimal Stomach acid production is certainly a major step for the efficiency of the digestive process. Less than ideal Stomach acid production prevents foods from being broken down properly and places an added burden on the remainder of the digestive process, including enzyme production from the pancreas.
As mentioned earlier, the presence of optimal Stomach acid is necessary for the digestion and absorption of critical nutrients. Amino acids and other peptides from proteins, minerals, vitamin B12 and folic acid are examples of nutrients that require proper levels of Stomach acid for their absorption and usage. The presence of adequate acid in the Stomach is also required for the conversion of the digestive enzyme pepsin. Pepsin is produced in the Stomach from its precursor pepsinogen, which is secreted by cells known as chief cells, and functions to help with the digestion of proteins. Pepsin breaks proteins down into their amino acid components. Since Stomach acid is essential to the process of absorbing our nutrients from food, lack of sufficient acid production may lead to decreased health and general well-being.
Ideal Stomach acid production is also essential for maintaining a healthy bacterial balance in the intestines. Firstly, acid production in the Stomach itself provides a protective barrier that keeps the Stomach environment safe. Secondarily, low levels of Stomach acid can lead to improperly, incompletely, or poorly-digested food fragments that may cause an imbalance in the growth of normal bacterial flora in the intestines. Achieving the correct balance of flora is a key to maintaining proper digestive function and overall health.
Research also suggests that the body’s capacity to produce Stomach acid normally declines as we age. Moreover, stress and other factors may impact proper Stomach acid production. Occasional heartburn, bloating, belching, discomfort, and a "sour Stomach" may often result from this. Food that we eat enters the Stomach through the esophagus, or food pipe. At the junction of the esophagus with the Stomach is a muscular structure known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When food enters the Stomach for digestion, the LES normally contracts, narrowing the passageway between the esophagus and the Stomach and preventing the backflow of Stomach contents into the esophagus. A major trigger for the process of tightening the sphincter is the presence of sufficient Stomach acid.
When sufficient Stomach acid is sensed, the LES will close. However, in conditions where there is a lack of Stomach acid, the sphincter remains open, allowing Stomach contents, including acid, to flow back through the opening, potentially creating a sense of irritation and discomfort. Adequate Stomach acid production is an essential criterion for the sphincter to function properly and prevent the backflow of Stomach contents.1
A recent study assessed the incidence and causes of low vitamin B12 levels in elderly patients. The researchers suggest that the incidence of decreased vitamin B12 in the elderly, based on results of some epidemiological studies, is as high as 30-40%. When they looked at the possible causes of low B12 levels in 200 individuals that they followed, they found that food-B12 malabsorption accounted for 60-70% of the cases.2 In other words dietary B12 is bound to foods, generally animal proteins. The protein is normally broken down in conjunction with acid and pepsin in the Stomach. However, low production of Stomach acid may decrease the efficiency of this process and vitamin B12 remains bound to the protein source, leaving it unavailable to be absorbed. The absorption of countless other nutrients may also be impacted by low Stomach acid and pepsin levels.
Gentian Root
Gentian is an herb that is native to parts of Europe and Asia. The root has been used extensively by traditional herbalists to support digestive function due in large part to its bitter constituents. Its present day use as a therapeutic herb dates back to the Romans and Greeks, and related species have even been used in the Indian Ayurvedic system. Various traditional texts classify gentian as a bitter tonic and digestive stimulant, due to its ability to promote the secretion of digestive enzymes. The German Commission E has approved the use of gentian for digestive support, which leads to an increased secretion of saliva and digestive juices.3
Supplementation with the combination of nutrients and cofactors present in Betaine HCl Pepsin & Gentian supports the normal digestive function of the Stomach and helps to ensure that the body maintains the efficiency of nutrient absorption from the foods that we eat. Gentian serves to stimulate digestive secretions in the Stomach, priming it to digest the food that we eat, while supplemental Betaine HCl and pepsin provide support to the body’s innate production of these digestive factors.
Safety
Take 1 capsule with each meal, or as recommended by a healthcare professional.
Scientific References
1. Wright, Jonathan V., MD and Lane Lenard, PhD. Why Stomach Acid is Good For You. New York: Evans, 2001. 2. Andres E, et al. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiency in elderly patients. CMAJ 2004; 171(3): 251-259. 3. Blumenthal M, Goldberg A and J Brinckmann, eds. Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Newton, MA: Integrative Medicine Communications, 2000.
Date:
November 22, 2006 01:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Q. If IP-6 comes from bran, wouldn’t eating more whole grain or high fiber foods = IP-6
A. Scientists who study a specific IP-6 and inositol blend asked this very same question and went to the laboratory to find the answer. They took cancerous tumors and exposed them to either the nutrients of fiber and bran, or to IP-6. The nutrients of the fiver and bran were the equivalent of a 20% bran diet. The scientists discovered that the IP-6 was twice as effective as the nutrients of the 20% bran diet.
In bran or fiber, IP-6 is bound to protein. For IP-6 to be well absorbed in the Stomach, enter the bloodstream, and travel to the various organs where cancer has occurred, the IP-6 must first be separated from the protein. This normally happens with digestion, but it can take awhile and is inefficient. Phytase, an enzyme found in food and also the intestine, can actually break down IP-6, making it ineffective as a cancer fighter. The longer it takes IP-6 to be released from food, the more time phytase has to break down IP-6 to an ineffective form. Pure IP-6 is better, because it will be absorbed into the bloodstream before phytase has a chance to destroy it.
Date:
August 25, 2006 02:26 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Digestive enzymes and Herbs
Digestive enzymes and Herbs
Raw food naturally contains the proper types and proportion of enzymes to assist in its own digestion.Food enzymes are released by the action of chewing, which ruptures the foods cell membranes.Like salivary enzymes, raw food enzymes play an important role in human digestion by predigesting food in the upper Stomach, where contents may site for as long as an hour before gastric secretions deign their action.
Since enzymes are essentially destroyed at 118 degrees F, most forms of cooking and industrial food preparation render food devoid of enzyme activity.This places the full burden of digestion on the body processes and reserves.In time, this burden can weaken or overwhelm an individual’s ability to process and absorb vital food nutrients.Many health professionals believe that the prevalence of cooked and processed foods in modern society makes supplementation with digestive enzymes essential.Digestive enzymes also may be a benefit to those who suffer from clinical disorders of digestion and absorption.
Consider these advantages
Comprehensive plant-source enzymes.Unlike supplemental enzymes of animal origin, plant enzymes work at the pH found in the upper Stomach.Plant enzymes are active in the pH range of 3.0 to 9.0, facilitating early and more complete digestion to improve food nutrient utilization.
Full Spectrum Activity. Buy digestive enzymes that act on all the food types.Protease break long protein chains (polypeptides) into smaller amino acid chains and eventually into single amino acids.Amylases reduce large carbohydrates (starches and other polysaccharides) into disaccharides such as sucrose, lactose, and maltose.Lipases digest fats (triglycerides) into free fatty acids and glycerol.Cellulases (not found in the human system) helps digest the fibrous cell walls of plants, exposing nutrients for use in the body and increasing their bioavailability.
Enzymes for Lactose and Other Sugars.Each class of carbohydrate-rich food requires a specific type of enzyme for its digestion.When the body is unable to secrete sufficient levels of such enzymes, malabsorption and physical discomfort may result.
Traditional Digestive Herbs.Artichoke leaf, peppermint leaf, fennel seed, gentian root, ginger root, capsicum fruit (cayenne) all help with digestion.Herbs can be carminatives (for gas and bloating), bitters (to stimulate digestive enzymes and secretions) and digestive tonifier (to help strengthen, soothe and normalize digestive membranes.) Ginger (a classic tonic bitter and digestant) and artichoke help to support the liver and gallbladder, as does Gentain, perhaps the most bitter of the herbal gastric stimulants.Peppermint oil and fennel have been used for centuries to soothe digestion and reduce gas and bloating.Capsicum (red pepper) augments the absorption of herbs and other nutrients.
Date:
July 08, 2006 01:24 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does It Work?
Proprietary Probiotic blend
Acidophilus Pearls is a probiotic dietary supplement designed to help support digestion and a healthy intestinal system. Probiotics, such as lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum are live microbial food supplements that are non-toxic and do not cause disease (non-pathogenic). Probiotics do not permanently colonize in the body. Therefore, they need to be ingested regularly for their health-promoting effects to persist. After ingestion, probiotics must adhere to the wall of the intestine. Once attached to the intestinal wall, the bacteria are capable of multiplying and colonizing in the gut, thereby enhancing the immune response. 1-3
Oral probiotics help support the composition and metabolic activities of the large intestine micro flora.1 Micro flora of the large intestines assist digestion through fermentation (making the intestines inhospitable to invading species), protection against pathogenic bacteria, and stimulation of the development of certain components of the immune system.3 Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum occupy a central role in the guy micro flora, thereby enabling them to influence the composition of the micro flora to provide health benefits.4
Breakdown of Lactose
Lactose is an important sugar that is converted to lactic acid by lactic acid producing bacteria (such as lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum).6 Lactose intolerance results from an inability to digest lactose.7 Lactose intolerance may be due to genetics, age related declines in intestinal lactase (the enzyme that metabolizes lactose), or other reasons.8 Lactase deficient people accumulate non-absorbed lactose in the gastrointestinal tract, which draws water and electrolytes into the gut and accelerates transit time, which can lead to diarrhea.2,8 Lactic acid bacteria can help metabolize the non-absorbed lactose in the gastrointestinal tract.
In a randomized, controlled clinical trial, Bifidobacterium longum was shown to support the breakdown of lactose and reduce the symptoms of lactose intolerance (flatulence) in people with lactose intolerance.5
Immune system support
While a normal micro flora is associated with good health, changes in intestinal health are associated with altered immune function. A well-functioning gastrointestinal immune system mediates immune responsiveness at mucosal sites and throughout the entire body via the control of quality and quantity of foreign substances gaining access to the immune system.9
Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum have shown to possess immunoprotective/immunomodulatory properties. These benefits include modulation of: cytokine and various interleukin production, autoimmunity, natural killer cells cytotoxicity, lymphocyte proliferation, and antibody production.3
In an open, randomized, controlled trial, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum were supportive of colon health in older adults. In addition, B cell (important antibody producing immune cells) levels increased as compared with the untreated group. The probiotics were very well tolerated, with no significant side effects or variations in clinical chemistry or hematologic parameters.
Decrease Occasional Constipation
Constipation is defined as infrequent or difficult defection that can result from decreased motility of the intestines. It is a common problem, particularly in older adults. When the feces remain in the large intestine for prolonged periods, there is excessive water absorption, making the feces dry and hard.7
Insufficient amounts of lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum may play a role in delayed bowel movement, which can favor the activity of undesireable putrefactive bacteria (bacteria that break down organic matter into potentially harmful compounds) in the intestines. Lactic acid bacteria contribute to the re-establishemtn of healthy intestinal flora (at the expense of pathogen growth) and stimulation of intestinal peristalsis via lactic acid. 10
Support of putrefactive Processes
When unbalanced conditions are present in the intestines (ie, unbalanced diet, high acidity, and/or low levels of lactic acid bacteria), organic matter may be putrified (decomposed or rotting) by certain bacteria and produce harmful substances such as ammonia.1,11
Micro flora or the large intestines promote homeostasis (balance) in both the intestine and the vagina.1,12,13 these activities are carried out via support of direct production of antibodies, competition with adhesion to intestinal cells, or indirect modulation of the immune system.2
Support Digestion
Normal micro flora of the large intestine help support and complete digestion via fermentation.1,11 The risk of diarrhea, for example, increases when the capacity of colonic micro flora to ferment carbohydrates decreases.8 Oral ingestion of probiotics produces a stabilizing effect on the guy flora.2
Additional Benefits
The benefits of probiotics extend beyond digestion support and immune support. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum also help support the better utilization and bioavailability of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.14
Candida albicans is a fungus that is a naturally occurring component of normal gastrointestinal micro flora.15 however, C. albicans should be maintained at healthy levels. Probiotics have been shown to help retain healthy levels of C. albicans that are already within normal limits.
True Delivery Technology
Recently, our Enzymatic Therapy laboratory tested four leading probiotics nutritional supplements in the marketplace. These supplements were best selling brands, two of the supplements were enteric coated, and all had label guarantees about potency (guaranteed number of live bacteria). The laboratory scientist counted the levels of living bacteria found in compared these findings to the bacterial levels claimed by each manufacturer. The products were also subjected to a simulation of Stomach acid conditions, after which the levels of living bacteria were re-counted.
The laboratory results found the probiotic supplements contained less than 50% of the number of living bacteria that they clamed on their labels. Furthermore, the laboratory results found that only 10% of the liver bacteria clamed on the manufacturer’s label survived the simulated Stomach conditions.
Acidophilus pearls used a revolutionary proprietary “pearl” encapsulation process called True Delivery Technology. The True Delivery Technology is a special type of natural coating that protects the probiotic bacteria.
The True Delivery is a seamless “pearl”, which consists of three layers. The inner layer is a paste of probiotic bacteria suspended in a protective oil suspension. The second layer actually “seals” the bacteria in the capsule, which protects them from air, moisture, and the effects of heat. Probiotic bacteria are anaerobic organisms (grow in the absence of oxygen) and the presence of oxygen can actually injure or kill them. Because probiotic bacteria are injured or destroyed by the acids of the Stomach, the third, outermost layer of the pearl is specially developed to only dissolve in the alkaline environment of the intestines. This patented gelatin pearl protects the probiotic bacteria from the acid environment of the Stomach, so that they can successfully reach the intestine.
The patented seamless pearl capsule of Acidophilus Pearls assures the virtually all the bacteria remain uninjured and healthy to colonize in the intestine. In addition, the special pearl capsule’s ability to seal the bacteria inside it eliminates the need for the nutritional supplement to be refrigerated – though they can be kept in the refrigerator, if desired.
Storage recommended
Store at controlled room temperature, 59 degrees F to 86 degrees F (15 – 30C). May refrigerate if desired
This statement has not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Date:
July 06, 2006 02:43 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oxy Boost – Oxygenate your Life!
Oxygen is the basis of all life and is found in the air we breathe and the water we drink. Increasing oxygen levels can have very positive effects, including improved mental clarity, endurance, immunity, better digestion and increased energy.
Oxygen is the key to a healthy immune system as well as every metabolic function in our bodies. Trillion of cells use oxygen to create energy every second of every day of our lives. Atmospheric pollution and deforestation play an important role in terms of the quality of air we breathe.
Oxy boost is all natural. It contains distilled water, sodium chloride (from sea salt), bioavailable oxygen, and essential and trace minerals. Oxy boost is the world’s premier stabilized oxygen supplement, containing one of the highest concentrations of activated oxygen available today. It is pH balanced (approximately 7.4—a perfect pH for internal and external use). This is why Oxy Boost is so unique in the field of oxygen supplements.
Oxy boost has been proven in independent laboratory studies to be completely non-toxic in any concentration and at any amount. Oxy boost is safe to use both orally (sublingually or in water) and topically. Oxy boost does not depend on the digestive process to be absorbed.
The body’s first line of defense
A lack of sufficient oxygen in the blood stream reduces the body’s first line of defense. This has been clearly established in medical literature. Oxy boost safely increases the available oxygen levels in the bloodstream.
Works with other nutrients
Oxy boost can be taken with other nutritional supplements in fact; it may be safe to assume that oxy boost can even increase the efficacy of such supplements. Oxy boost works hand in hand with all other nutrients including amino acids, minerals and vitamins. These all require oxygen to be assimilated by the body and for utilization in the metabolic processes. The higher the oxygen saturation level in the blood and tissues, the more efficient and effective are the metabolic processes involving these nutrients.
We recommend that Oxy boost be taken on an empty Stomach, preferably 30 min before eating or two hours after eating, to get the greatest physiological benefits from the product. Oxy boost is available in regular and therapeutic (2.5 times the concentration of regular Oxy boost) strengths.
Date:
July 06, 2006 02:15 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Kidney rejuvenator
Every muscle, organ, bone and tissue in the body is dependent on the kidneys. Each 30 minutes, the kidneys filter the blood, removing about two quarts of waste products and excess water a day, which become urine.
In addition to removing wastes, the kidneys release three important hormones that stimulate the body to produce more red blood cells, regulate blood pressure and help maintain calcium for bones and normal chemical balance in the body.
The kidneys regulate the body’s level of many substances necessary for life. Healthy kidneys return the right amount of chemicals such as sodium, phosphorus and potassium back to the bloodstream fro use by the body.
Kidney health
Because of their vital role, it is important that one’s kidneys be in good health and not stressed or impeded in their function by a buildup of toxins. Low-back pain, joint stiffness and painful menstrual cramps may all be symptoms of poor kidney health.
Kidney Rejuvenator is a proprietary blend of powerful herbs that support the kidneys’ vital functions. These herbs include:
Cinnamon Bark – reinforces circulation in the kidneys, liver spleen and Stomach, and increases blood circulation and immunity. Excellent for poor kidney function. Helps balance the menstrual cycle.
Litchi fruit – contributes to healthy kidneys and liver by promoting regeneration of cells. Helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. Excellent for a week sex drive, strengthens weak knees and joints, and improves vision.
Borage leaves – helps to heal and regenerate damaged adrenal glands and kidneys. Excellent for cardiovascular function. Contribute to healthy skin and nails. Soothe sore joints and strengthen the liver.
Damiana leaf – balance both male and female hormones, which increases energy as well as oxygenating the reproductive organs.
Cedar leaves – boost the immune system and increase blood flow; also cleanse the lymphatic system and urinary tract.
Red Raspberry leaf – support kidneys, liver, spleen, reproductive system and bladder, and promotes healthy skin.
Wild Rose Root – excellent for bladder problems, soothes the liver, strengthens the immune system and reduces pain.
Fenugreek – energizes the kidneys and of all herbs; good for the heart, kidneys, lungs, pancreas, Stomach and spleen.
Benefits reported for users
Here are some of the benefits reported by users of Kidney Rejuvenator: reduction of period cramps, reduction of muscle soreness and stiffness, improved kidney / bladder function, fewer general aches and pains, greater flexibility, less joint discomfort, diminished swelling in joints, sense of well-being, and increased energy.
Date:
January 18, 2006 12:22 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Staying on Your Diet throughout the Holidays
The temptations of the holiday season don't have to mean a bigger waistline in the new year and yet another resolution to get in shape. With just a few tricks and tips, you can keep your weight in check and still celebrate with everyone.
Pre-Party Dos
While you might be invited to more parties than usual, you can do a lot before you even arrive to keep yourself from eating too much.
One way of keeping your food consumption down is to eat before you go out. An apple or a large glass of water before leaving home will keep you away from the dessert cart at the party.
At-the-Party! Dos and Don'ts
Now that you have lined your Stomach, all you have to do is to take care of your calories, maintaining them at a sensible level. Do keep away from the high calorie sips. Alcohol, for instance, has a high calorie content that will easily build up to shatter your calorie allowance. It's a good idea to talk about anything but food, and try avoiding holding a plate! it helps to do something else with your hands, so they are occupied.
If you really must eat, you'll find that the vegetable and fruit trays can be the best places to fill up your plate. If you put these items on your plate first and then put smaller servings of other higher fat items, you'll be able to have everything without the caloric damage.
During the main course, you can balance your calories by eating only half of what is on your plate. You can easily explain it away by complementing your host on the meal, while pleading you couldn't possibly eat more. Or you could tell them the truth, one that most people readily accept! that you are being careful about your diet.
When you're at home
If you're doing the cooking during a holiday, you are more in control of your eating. Why not make items that are low in calories so you don't have to avoid anything?
When cooking, ask a family member to do the tasting. They will be only too thrilled to do this and you can save yourself from consuming added calories.
You might also want to freeze any cookies or other tempting items until you will be eating them for a meal or a gathering. It's a lot harder to eat something that's frozen.
At the end of it all, these dos and don'ts may even take a couple of inches off your waistline at the New Year. But if they don't, and you still weigh the same, you accomplished what you set out to do! now that calls for a party!
Tania Makevey operates the website and writes for R You Diet which a site dedicated to researching diet related topics and contains all the very latest diet news and views. For more details please visit //www.ryoudiet.com
Date:
November 28, 2005 12:05 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Life is more enjoyable when your Stomach is prepared for it.
PepZin GI for the Stomach.
Life is more enjoyable when your Stomach is prepared for it.
With the inevitable ups and downs of every day life, the importance of maintaining a healthy Stomach is just good common sense. Because it is the immune system’s first line of defense, compromising the lining of the Stomach could have a ripple effect in other parts of the body. Many things can impact the Stomachs mucosal lining, including bacterial imbalances, poor metabolism of carbohydrates, too much aspirin, alcohol use, or just a spicy diet.
PepZinGI, from Doctor’s Best, is an exclusive, patented complex of zinc and l-carnosine that offers remarkable Stomach support. A special chelated form of zinc that breaks down more slowly in the Stomach, PepZinGI is able to exert its effects directly on the cells lining the Stomach for a longer period of time. Clinical trials involving controlled, double-blind comparative studies of patients with gastric discomfort clearly demonstrated the superior ability of zinc-l-carnosine to help the body cope better. By helping to prevent free-radical damage, supporting cell growth and metabolism, and maintaining proper balance of bacteria in the Stomach, PepZin GI can provide effective support of its crucial mucosal lining.*
*These statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Date:
November 11, 2005 06:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: If Ip-6 comes from bran, wouldn’t eating more whole grain or high fiber foods provide IP6
Q. If Ip-6 comes from bran, wouldn’t eating more whole grain or high fiber foods provide IP-6?
A. Scientists who study a specific IP-5 and inositol blend asked this very same question and went to the laboratory to find the answer. They took cancerous tumors and exposed them to either the nutrients of fiber and bran, or to IP-6. The nutrients of fiber and bran were the equivalent of 20% bran diet. The scientists discovered that the IP-6 was twice as effective as the nutrients of the 20% bran diet.
In bran or fiber, IP-6 is bound to protein. For IP-6 to be well absorbed in the Stomach, enter the bloodstream, and travel to the various organs where cancer has occurred, the Ip-6 must first be separated from the protein. This normally happens with digestion, but it can take awhile and is inefficient. Phytase, an enzyme found in food and also the intestine, can actually break down IP-6, making it ineffective as a caner fighter. The longer it takes IP-6 to be released from food, the more time phytase has to break down IP-6 to an ineffective form. Pure IP-6 is better, because it will be absorbed into the bloodstream before phytase has a chance to destroy it.
Date:
September 24, 2005 12:00 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Guys should forget the six-pack abs and just lose the beer belly.
Time for a Gut Check
Guys should forget the six-pack abs and just lose the beer belly.
When a woman noticed her husband standing on the bathroom scale and sucking in his Stomach, she said, “I don’t think that’s going to help.” “Sure it will,” he responded. “It’s the only way I can see the numbers.”
Funny line, sure. But whether you’re talking about “love handles,” a “spare tire” or the proverbial “beer belly,” having a tummy that hangs over your belt buckle is no laughing matter. It’s not even a matter of the quest for “six-pack abs” or a “washboard Stomach.” It’s a matter of health.
Consider this: A recent study appearing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that a man’s waist size can be a good predictor for the development of type 2 diabetes. A Harvard Health Professionals team, led by Dr. Youfa Wang, an assistant professor at the John Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, analyzed data from more than 27,000 men who were tracked for more than 13 years. The team found that men with larger waists or a higher body mass index (BMI) were both at greater risk for type 2 diabetes than slimmer men. (You find your body mass index by dividing your weight in kilograms by the square of your height in meters. If your waist size is 40 inches or less, a BMI of 25 or over means you’re overweight.)
“Abdominal fat measured by waist circumference can indicate a strong diabetes risk, whether or not a man is considered overweight or obese according to his BMI,” says Wang. The Harvard team found that men with waist sizes of 40 to 62 inches were 12 times more likely to develop diabetes and suggested that the current recommended waistline of 40 inches or below for men may need to be lowered.
Flatten Up
Okay, now that we’ve scared the bejeezes out of all you guys under 6-foot-4 who by your pants in the big-man store, let’s talk about what you have to do to shop anywhere in the mall. Again, this is not about looking like a Greek ab god. This is about diminishing your risk for a myriad of health problems and being able to comfortably bend over for a ground ball during the pickup softball game. And there are no shortcuts, so forget about liposuctioning those years of accumulated lard. Despite what all those TV makeover shows say, liposuction can only really enhance your body aesthetic if you lose a large chunk of the surface fat first.
“Those makeover shows have it all backwards,” says Dr. Bruce Nadler, a fitness trainer who also happens to be a plastic surgeon. “They do surgery on someone’s midsection and then have them doing intense workouts when they are supposed to be recuperating from surgery. I wouldn’t do liposuction until you see what diet and exercise can accomplish. When you have all the weight in the midsection the dangerous fat is deep within the body. So liposuction may make you look better but it won’t necessarily improve your health.”
The Gut Check Plan
Talk to any exercise expert worth their weight in body fat, including Nadler, and they will tell you that on of the biggest fitness fallacies is the notion that intense abdominal workouts and use of abdominal machines (like those sold through those interminable infomercials) are the keys to getting a flatter and more “ripped” midsection. In fact, for many people it’s not physiologically possible to achieve a flat tummy because abdominals are not designed to be flat. And the idea of “spot reduction,” exercising the area where you want to lose the fat, is now considered a myth. Research has shown that fat is lost all over your body, not just in the area that you work.
It’s not that you can’t benefit from doing abdominal exercises. Crunches, situps and leg raises, when done properly, are great for muscle tone and endurance (and you do burn calories), but the real key to achieving a wonderful waist size is losing body fat. How do you do that?
“Dropping a few inches from your midsection,” says Nadler, “depends on four things- calorie reduction through proper diet (eating very little fat, consuming complex carbohydrates and doing it all in smaller portions), stepping up aerobic activity (such as running an bicycling, which burns excess calories quickly and safely), and resistance weight training (which not only increases metabolism and helps burn more excess calories, but also builds and strengthens the abdominal wall).” Then, adds Nadler, when you’ve just about reached your waist=reduction goal, but genetics still won’t give you a flatter Stomach, “that’s where plastic surgery may come in as icing on the cake.”
Nadler also advises men not to panic if they don’t notice a substantial weight reduction during a training program. “When people are doing weight and resistance training they are too hung up on the scale,” insists Nadler. “Muscle weighs more than fat so don’t judge your progress by what you weigh, but on what your percentage of body fat is. That’s the number you want to see going down.”
So how long does it take for men with an oversized gut to lose the excess? “Depending on how much they have to lose,” Nadler says, “it takes anywhere from three to six months.” By the way, for men in their 30s and up, there are also two important side benefits to decreasing the waist size and firming up the gut: better overall posture and diminishing the potential for chronic back pain. So get to work guys; suck it up so you can stop sucking it in. -Stephen Hanks
In a randomized, multi-center, placebo-controlled double blind study, 299 patients suffering with symptoms of gastric discomfort were randomly allocated to receive either a zinc-L-carnosine complex or a placebo, or a control drug or its placebo for 8 weeks. Improvement ratings for a range of symptoms were taken at various points during the trial and compared with before treatment data. Of the 258 people who completed the trial, 136 were in the zinc-Lcarnosine group. Of the group, 92% of the participants were rated as “moderately improved” or better on an improvement scale across the category of symptoms including heartburn, tenderness, epigastric pain, diarrhea and constipation after 8 weeks.3
In another study, 28 patients with gastric discomfort were given a zinc-L-carnosine compound and monitored for 8 weeks. Improvement was rated on a scale of subjective and objective symptoms. After 4 weeks, the rate of those cases that were considered to be “significantly improved” was 68.4%. After eight weeks, the “significantly improved” number was 68.8%. Over 60% of these patients remained in the “significantly improved” category well after discontinuation of the treatment, suggesting a lasting effect of the zinc-L-carnosine compound beyond the time it is taken.4
Maintains a healthy GI environment.*
The mineral zinc in PepZin GI™ is a critical component to a number of physiological processes in our bodies. Some of these functions include growth and metabolism of cells, healing of wounds,and maintenance of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.2
PepZin GI™ may also be able to favorably maintain the bacterial balance of the Stomach and GI tract. Studies suggest that the zinc-L-carnosine co m pound may have effects on certain strains of harmful bacteria and, therefore, may be able to help maintain a GI environment that is favorable to health.1 By supporting the bacterial balance in the Stomach, PepZin GI™ can help maintain a healthy mucosal lining.
Supports the health of gastric cells.*
PepZin GI™ has been studied for its ability to prevent free radical damage to gastric cells. In one such study, rat gastric cells were exposed to ethanol and hydrogen peroxide, two substances known to cause free radical damage to living cells. Cells were bathed in hydrogen peroxide, ethanol, zinc-L-carnosine, or a combination of zinc-L-carnosine with either ethanol or hydrogen peroxide. While the cells bathed in ethanol and hydrogen peroxide solutions all exhibited signs of damage due to free radical production, the cells that were bathed in zinc-L-carnosine were largely protected from the effects of free radical damage. The authors concluded that the zinc compound directly protected gastric mucosal cells from oxidant stress and alcohol induced damage.5
Additional research further confirms the gastro-protective effects of PepZin GI™. In another rat study, Stomach lesions were induced by administration of the chemical monochloramine, a known pro-oxidant (producer of free radicals). One of the groups of rats was fed the zinc-Lcarnosine compound prior to being exposed to monochloramine. The researchers found that the size of the lesions in the group pre-treated with zinc-L-carnosine was significantly less than the lesions in the control group. The authors concluded that the zinc compound exerted a beneficial protective effect against monochloramine-induced Stomach lesions.6
The zinc-L-carnosine in PepZin GI™ has also been shown to slow the development of aspirin induced Stomach damage in rats. The researchers measurably detected lower levels of TNF-alpha in rats given zinc-L-carnosine as compared to the control rats. TNF-alpha is an inflammatory cytokine that is known to be released in response to gastric damage.7 These results may suggest a role for PepZin GI™ in protecting gastric cells by occasionally reducing the levels of certain cytokines in minor inflammation of the Stomach.
Scientific References
1. Kuwayama H, et al. Polaprezinc. Nippon Rinsho 2002 Feb; 60 Suppl 2:717-720. 2.Matsukura T,Tanaka H. Applicability of zinc complex of l-carnosine for medical use. Biochemistry (Moscow) 2000;65(7):817-823. 3.Miyoshi A, et al. Clinical evaluation of Z-103 on gastric ulcer - a multicenter double-blind comparative study with cetraxate hydrochloride. Jpn PharmTher 1992;20(1):199-223. 4.Misawa T, et al. Clinical study of Z-103 - clinical effects on gastric ulcer and influence on endocrine function. Jpn PharmTher 1992; 20(1):245-254. 5. Hiraishi H, et al. Polaprezinc protects gastric mucosal cells from noxious agents through antioxidant properties in vitro. Aliment Pharmacl Ther 1999;13:261-269. 6. Kato S, Nishiwaki H, et al. Mucosal ulcerogenic action of monochloramine in rat Stomachs: effects of polaprezinc and sucralfate. Dig Dis Sci 1997;42(10):2156-2163. 7.Naito Y, et al. Effects of polaprezinc on lipid peroxidation, neutrophil accumulation, and TNF-alpha expression in rats with aspirin-induced gastric mucosal injury. Dig Dis Sci 2001;46(4):845-851.
Date:
September 03, 2005 01:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Assists Digestion of Proteins, Carbohydrates and Fats
Assists Digestion of Proteins, Carbohydrates and Fats
Digestive enzymes are produced by the pancreas and secreted into the duodenum (upper small intestine), where proteins, carbohydrates and fats are broken down prior to absorption. As we age, the body’s capacity to produce enzymes may decline. Moreover, stress and other health difficulties can impact enzyme production. Overeating sometimes causes incomplete digestion. Heartburn, bloating, belching, discomfort, and a “sour Stomach” often result.
Supplementation with the enzymes in Best For Digestion supports replenishment of the body’s enzyme level, helping to relieve the burden on an overworked pancreas. Digezyme® contains a neutral protease which, like the body’s intrinsic protein-digesting enzymes, is active in the neutral to alkaline pH range. In addition to amylase for starch digestion and lipase for fats, Digezyme® also supplies lactase, which acts on milk sugar, and cellulase, which breaks down cellulose.
Benefits of Enzyme Supplementation
Enzyme supplementation promotes improved digestion and delivery of vital nutrients to the system. This benefits good health in many ways, including better elimination, improved energy levels and maintenance of healthy body weight. Enzymes also help prevent accumulation of undigested foods in the large intestine, which can be a source of toxicity for the body.
Supports Digestive Function According to Ancient Principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Disturbed digestion, whether from overeating or generally poor digestive-organ function, results in sluggish movement of food through the alimentary canal and sub-optimal nutrient absorption. In traditional Chinese medical theory, the functions of transporting food and assimilating nutrients are governed by the Stomach and “spleen.” The “Qi,” or vital functional energy of these organs, is complimentary in action. Stomach Qi “descends” as food travels downward through the digestive tract. Overeating and poor digestion interfere with the Stomach’s normal descending function, resulting in “food stagnation.” If Stomach Qi “rebels upward,” the result is nausea and vomiting. The herbs in Best For Digestion, which include Stomach tonics such as Ginger root, assist the descending function of the Stomach, and have been traditionally used as remedies for “food stagnation.”
The “spleen” in Chinese medicine encompasses the digestive role of the pancreas. Spleen Qi normally “ascends.” This can also be explained from a Western perspective. When nutrients are absorbed, they enter the circulation through intestinal capillaries, travel upward to the liver via the hepatic portal system, and continue up to the heart, eventually to be circulated throughout the body. Several of the herbs in Best For Digestion are traditional “spleen tonics” that support the ascending of spleen Qi, thus assisting optimum nutrient absorption.
Digestive Enzymes and Traditional Chinese Herbs: A Novel Approach to Better Digestion
Combining digestive enzymes and Chinese herbs that support digestive function is a unique new approach to better digestion. Whether the problem is temporary “food stagnation” or a more long-term need for improved digestive organ function, Best For Digestion provides valuable assistance.
3. Barillas, C., Solomons, N. Effective reduction of lactose maldigestion in preschool children by direct addition of ß-galactosidases to milk at mealtime. Pediatrics 1987;79(5):766-72.
4.DiPalma, J., Collins,M. Enzyme replacement for lactose malabsorpiton using a beta-d-galactosidase. J Clin Gastroenterol 1989;11(3):290-3.
Suggested Use: 1 tablet daily in the morning, on an empty Stomach, with water. Wait 30 minutes before eating. Or, take as recommended by your health care professional.
Date:
June 29, 2005 02:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Digest Active - For Occasional Indigestion
It feels great when you’ve eaten well and your body has been energized with nutrients. But with your busy schedule, you might not always be able to eat well, and your body might not have the time or energy to properly digest your meals. The result: occasional indigestion and low energy because your food doesn’t get broken down enough to release the energizing nutrients you need. And poor digestion can lead to long-term health imbalances. To reclaim the energy from your nutrients, Source Naturals, the science company, introduces DIGESTACTIV, a Bio-Aligned Formula™ designed to work with your body to stimulate optimal digestion. DIGESTACTIV contains the high potency, broad-spectrum blend of digestive enzymes found in our best-selling ESSENTIAL ENZYMES™, plus digestion-stimulating ingredients such as bromelain, papain and ginger. When you want digestive stimulation along with the nutrient releasing power of ESSENTIAL ENZYMES for occasional indigestion, take DIGESTACTIVE.
Bio-Aligned™ Digestive Support
DIGESTACTIV™ is scientifically formulated to support the body systems involved in healthy digestion. There are herbs and other ingredients to promote the digestive stimulant system and enzymes to promote the digestive systems for releasing nutrients from food. These ingredients work together to optimize the amount of energizing nutrients you can assimilate from your meals and to relieve occasional indigestion, occasional constipation, sour Stomach, bloating and gas.
Digestive Stimulant System
DIGESTACTIV contains many ingredients that help stimulate your digestive process to promote healthy nutrient accessibility. Betaine HCl (hydrochloric acid) supports the acidic environment needed in your Stomach to digest food. The bitter herbs gentian, ginger, peppermint and quassia all stimulate the appetite and the gastric juices needed for digestion. Bioperine® is a pepper extract that increases thermogenic, or heat generating reactions in the gastro-intestinal tract, which facilitates enhanced bioavailability of nutrients.
Nutrient Digestion Systems
DIGESTACTIV also contains enzymes that work throughout the varying sections and pH (or acidity) levels of your digestive system. For the carbohydrate digestive system, there are amylase, amyloglucosidase and lactase. Amylase and amyloglucosidase convert starch into smaller, simpler sugars. Lactase breaks down the milk sugar lactose, which many adults are unable to digest. For the protein digestive system, there are acid stable protease and vegetarian pancreatin to promote protein digestion in a wide range of pH levels. Additional protein digestion support comes from the pineapple enzyme bromelain, the papaya enzyme papain, and betaine HCl, which promotes the acidity level needed to denature proteins for digestion of their building blocks, amino acids. For the fat digestive system, there is lipase to promote the healthy breakdown of fats, or triglycerides, into their nutrient building blocks, fatty acids and glycerol.
For the fiber digestive system, there are cellulase and hemicellulase to break down the sturdy cell walls in fibrous plants, thereby releasing more nutrients for digestion.
Popular Efficacy
DIGESTACTIV contains all the key ingredients found in the best-selling ESSENTIAL ENZYMES™. ESSENTIAL ENZYMES is a popular product because it addresses body systems in addition to symptoms* of digestive imbalance. And it works. Increasing the breakdown of nutrients in the digestive system results in fewer digestive symptoms* as well as better nutrient availability. And DIGESTACTIV has added enzymes and herbs to promote digestive stimulation for relief of occasional indigestion. Source Naturals is pleased to partner with your local health food store to bring you the unique health benefits of DIGESTACTIV. There is a revolution underway in how we think about and maintain our health, and natural food stores and outlets are at the forefront. You can benefit right now—long before word spreads to the general public—with the innovative nutrition of Source Naturals DIGESTACTIVE.
Health Strategies for Digestive Wellness
• Eat slowly to give your body time to generate digestive juices as well as savor your food.
• Eat a balanced, whole foods diet to maximize your access to energizing bioavailable nutrients.
• Drink plenty of water to supply much needed fluid for digestion.
• Try to relax when eating, to promote the flow of your digestive juices.
• Stay active, because regular exercise helps to promote healthy digestion.
• Eat plenty of fiber to provide your GI tract with the bulk needed for healthy digestion.
• Eat probiotics, beneficial bacteria that help you digest foods These include acidophilus, which is found in yogurt, and bifidus.
• Eat prebiotic carbohydrates found in fruits and vegetables, such as FOS (fructooligosaccharides), to feed the friendly bacteria that live in your intestines and help your digestion.
• Supplement your diet with digestion promoting products such as Source Naturals probiotics ACIDOPHILUS, LIFE FLORA™, SUPER CARROT ACIDOPHILUS™, and BIFIDYN™, prebiotic NUTRAFLORA® FOS, and fibers such as CHOLESFIBER™, GRAPEFRUIT PECTIN, GUAR GUM, OAT BRAN 1000™, and PSYLLIUM HUSK POWDER.
DigestActiv™ is a Bio-Aligned Formula™ Multi-System Support for Occasional Indigestion
References Bland. J. (1993). Digestive Enzymes. Keats Publishing Co. Holcenberg, J. et al. (1981). Enzymes as Drugs. John Wiley and Sons: New York. 331-340. Linder, M. (1991). Nutritional Biochemistry and Metabolism. Appleton & Lange. * The term symptom as used above refers to the effects of nutrient shortages or imbalances and is not related to the diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease.
Date:
June 25, 2005 10:34 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: SPECIFIC ACTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH GARLIC
SPECIFIC ACTIONS ASSOCIATED WITH GARLIC
• Antioxidant: Protects cells against damage by free radicals found in environmental pollutants including heavy metals. Garlic contains the highest level of the antioxidant selenium, which affords excellent cellular protection.
• Anti-toxic: Can be considered a radiation antidote in that it stimulates cellular detoxification.
• Anti-cancer: Blocks the ability of carcinogens to mutate healthy cells into malignant ones. In some cases, Garlic can even inhibit the early proliferation of cancerous cells.
• Decongestant: Helps to rid the respiratory tract of mucus.
• Artery Cleanser: Significantly lowers blood levels of triglycerides which have been associated with an increased risk of heart attack.
• Anti-artherosclerotic: Promotes the regression of fatty deposits in blood vessels, a major cause of atherosclerosis, and can even help reverse arterial blockages caused by the collection of plaque.
• Antibiotic: Works as an immune system stimulant which helps the body fight bacterial, viral and fungal infections. Enhancing immune defenses may also help the body rid itself of cancerous invaders.
• Anticoagulant: Reduces the tendency of the blood to clot and helps to dissolve existing clots. Both of these actions are very significant in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Tonic: Garlic has a positive effect on the heart, Stomach, lungs and spleen.
• Anti-infection: Externally, garlic can be used as a drawing poultice.
• Antiparasitic: Garlic has traditionally been used in enemas to rid the colon of intestinal parasites.
• Blood Purifier: Helps to stimulate the lymphatic system to more efficiently get rid of waste material.
• Glucose Control: Garlic has been found to be useful in controlling glucose tolerance and is beneficial for both hypo and hyperglycemia. Anyone with diabetes can benefit from garlic as well.
• Swelling: Garlic suppositories have been used to shrink hemorrhoids.
• Anti-inflammatory: The anti-inflammatory action of garlic makes it a valuable treatment for arthritis. Garlic reduces joint swelling and inflammation
• Antihypertensive: Garlic has been recognized by the Japanese Food and Drug Administration as an official treatment for high blood pressure.
• Garlic is a “wonder” food that is considered to be one of the most effective natural healing substances in the world.
COMBINATIONS THAT ENHANCE GARLIC
• garlic, capsicum and vitamin C
• garlic, coenzyme Q10, carnitine, selenium and hawthorne berries
• garlic, ginseng, echinacea, and white willow
• garlic, horehound, echinacea, chickweed, mullein and licorice
Citronella is a grass that is grown in Asian countries as well as islands in the South Pacific and has a rich and crisp aroma. Citronella essential oil is extracted from the Ceylon and Java variety of the grass. This oil is known to have so many benefits and these include:
system. More research is needed before it will be recommended for treatment, but so far, the findings have been promising. 
Oily skin is the result of the sebaceous glands, which are the oil-secreting glands, produce more oil than is needed for proper lubrication of the skin. The excess oil is responsible for clogging pores and causing blemishes. Oily skin is most likely a result of heredity. However, it is known to be affected by factors such as diet, hormone levels, pregnancy, birth control pills, and the cosmetics that you use. Humidity and hot weather stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil. However, it can occur at any age. A lot of people have skin that is oily only in certain areas and dry or normal in others. This condition is known as combination skin. Generally, the forehead, nose, chin, and upper back tend to be the areas that are more oily than other areas. 
Lactose intolerance is what is known as the inability to digest lactose. It is cause by a lack or deficiency of lactase. 
The cinnamon plant is a small evergreen tree that grows between thirty two and forty nine feet tall. This plant belongs to the Lauraceae family and is native to Sri Lanka. The leaves of the plant are ovate oblong in shape and approximately two to seven inches in length, while the flowers, which have a distinct odor, are greenish in color. The fruit is a purple berry about one-centimeter and contain a single seed. The flavor of cinnamon is the result of an essential oil which makes up about 1/2% to 1% of its composition. This oil can be prepared by roughly pounding the bark, macerating it in seawater, and quickly distilling the whole. The oil is of a golden-yellow color, with the characteristic odor of 
This herb is used to help relieve upset Stomachs, reduce milk flow, stop excessive menstrual flow, and alleviate back pain. Research has also determined that cinnamon contains components that possess antifungal and antibacterial capabilities. This herb is found in some toothpaste, which allows it to help some decay-causing bacteria. Cinnamon is also helpful for promoting healthy blood sugar levels. 
Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
