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Did you know that glutathione is not only great for liver health, but it also promotes beautiful, radiant skin? Darrell Miller 12/7/23
The Benefits of Horse Chestnut Extract Darrell Miller 10/25/22
Love Your Liver With Milk Thistle Darrell Miller 10/13/22
Study: Curcumin, a polyphenol in turmeric, can selectively targetcancer stem cells Darrell Miller 5/2/19
The Differences Between Hemp Seed Oil and Hemp CBD Oil Darrell Miller 4/29/19
Can I Eat Fruit On a Keto Diet? Darrell Miller 4/25/19
Coenzyme Q10: Research confirms ubiquinone and ubiquinol are nearlyequally-absorbed ... Darrell Miller 4/22/19
A little oregano oil can go a long way for your immune system Darrell Miller 2/11/19
Congress Finally Frees Hemp From Jail: Big News For Farmers and CBDIndustry Darrell Miller 1/6/19
Flaxseed is one of the world's most important medicinal foods Darrell Miller 11/15/18
Why you need sodium, and how much is necessary? Darrell Miller 9/5/18
Vitamin D is so important researchers worry about ethics of limiting supplementation to perform research trials Darrell Miller 4/15/18
Sugar: A Dangerous and Addictive Drug? Darrell Miller 10/12/17
Unable to develop a new antibiotic drug for decades, new research "discovers" potential in a compound from honeybees, ignoring the fact that natural medicine has used bee pollen for years Darrell Miller 9/23/17
Natural cannabinoids from omega-3 fatty acids combat inflammation Darrell Miller 7/24/17
This American Doctor Reveals Us The Most Powerful Natural Antibiotic That Kills Any Infection!! Darrell Miller 6/24/17
Jarrow challenges FDA on probiotics Darrell Miller 6/5/17
You’ve Been Buying Fake Salt for Years ! Here is What You Need to KNOW Darrell Miller 6/1/17
Can Energy Drinks Cause Hepatitis? Darrell Miller 4/9/17
Medical News Today: Is rice gluten-free? Grains explained Darrell Miller 3/25/17
Drug testing and CBD: Can a cannabidiol user test positive for marijuana? Darrell Miller 3/23/17
How rare sugars might help control blood glucose Darrell Miller 3/13/17
Fructose is generated in the human brain Darrell Miller 2/24/17
CBD - The Myths And Facts Darrell Miller 1/26/17
Did cannabis oil prove to be a miracle cure for this little boy with epilepsy? Darrell Miller 1/16/17
What changes are coming to the Nutrition Facts label? Darrell Miller 1/2/17
Even teethers labeled BPA-free may contain hormone-disruptors Darrell Miller 12/26/16
Too Much Salt for Our Kids Darrell Miller 12/6/16
The Benefits of Vitamin C Related to Skin, Nutrition & Health Darrell Miller 12/5/16
How nutritious are plant-based milks? Darrell Miller 12/3/16
Kids continue to consume too much salt, putting them at risk Darrell Miller 11/30/16
Two Common Food Additives Promote Colorectal Cancer Darrell Miller 11/26/16
These are the biggest mistakes people make when trying to eat healthy Darrell Miller 11/15/16
Sugar: What Kinds to Eat and When Darrell Miller 11/8/16
Eating Healthy and Gluten-Free Darrell Miller 10/24/16
new from Now Foods, Empty Glass Bottles to Mix Your Own Oils Darrell Miller 9/28/16
Kava Roots Helps Those Suffering From Anxiety Darrell Miller 9/21/16
First Day of School and your Child Comes Home Sick? Fight Back With This Remedy Darrell Miller 8/30/16
Expelling Parasites and Worms with Black Walnuts Darrell Miller 8/7/15
Fake Herbal Supplements - the unfortunate truth of fraudulent business Darrell Miller 6/12/15
What Is 2000fu In Nattokinse? Darrell Miller 12/29/12
Benefits of using natural bar soaps Darrell Miller 5/27/12
What Is A Natural Carb Blocker? Darrell Miller 11/5/11
How Does Now foods Test For Quality In Raw Materials? Darrell Miller 10/26/11
What Makes Curamed such a good Pain Remedy? Darrell Miller 10/24/11
Is Sulfite Sensitivity And Vertigo Linked? Darrell Miller 10/17/11
What can you get from Too Much Fiber? Darrell Miller 10/11/11
Can I Use Senna Leaves As A Laxative Daily? Darrell Miller 9/27/11
Why is It so Important to Give Your Child a Multiple Vitamin Mineral Supplement Darrell Miller 3/11/11
What Does The Ayurvedic Herb Amla Do For The Body? Darrell Miller 2/22/11
How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Help With Heart Health? Darrell Miller 2/21/11
Taurine - Essential or Non-Essential Amino Acid - You Decide? Darrell Miller 2/17/11
Constipated? Herbs can Help With Constipation! Darrell Miller 1/28/11
How to detoxify from heavy metal aluminum toxitity Darrell Miller 11/9/10
Agave Nectar Darrell Miller 4/8/10
Oil Skin Treatment Darrell Miller 2/12/10
Lactase Enzymes and Acidophilus Darrell Miller 2/10/10
Colostrum Darrell Miller 6/18/09
Boswellia Extract Darrell Miller 6/11/09
L-Cysteine Darrell Miller 5/8/09
Natural Sweeteners Vs. Artificial Sweeteners Darrell Miller 4/30/09
Long-Sought Food Labeling Law Underway Darrell Miller 3/19/09
Cold And Flue Remedies Darrell Miller 3/16/09
Healthy Nails Darrell Miller 3/3/09
Mumps Darrell Miller 2/27/09
Natural Toothpastes Darrell Miller 2/18/09
Copper Vitamins Darrell Miller 2/13/09
Hoodia Darrell Miller 1/29/09
Dangers Of Over The Counter Drugs Darrell Miller 10/16/08
Herbs And Herbal Remedies Are Safe Foods Darrell Miller 9/30/08
Brown Rice Is A Whole Grain Darrell Miller 8/6/08
Denture Bonding Cream Darrell Miller 8/4/08
Echinacea Purpurea Root Darrell Miller 6/17/08
Pain Relief Darrell Miller 6/13/08
Maitake Mushroom Darrell Miller 5/24/08
(OPC) Grape Seed Extract Darrell Miller 5/3/08
Butcher's Broom Extract Darrell Miller 5/2/08
Are You At Risk And What Can You Do About It? Darrell Miller 4/23/08
What is Hoodia? Darrell Miller 4/8/08
NOW Foods Turmeric Scored Darrell Miller 3/25/08



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Did you know that glutathione is not only great for liver health, but it also promotes beautiful, radiant skin?
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Date: December 07, 2023 12:12 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Did you know that glutathione is not only great for liver health, but it also promotes beautiful, radiant skin?

Did you know that glutathione is not only great for liver health, but it also promotes beautiful, radiant skin?

Glutathione (GSH), often considered as an amino acid but actually a tripeptide, is an antioxidant primarily synthesized in the liver. Composed of cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine, it plays a crucial role in the synthesis and repair of DNA and protein, as well as the synthesis of prostaglandins. With its involvement in various functions like amino acid transport, toxin and carcinogen metabolism, immune system function, prevention of oxidative cell damage, and activation of enzymes, it is undoubtedly the most important tripeptide in the body.

While the benefits of supplementing with glutathione are numerous, two particularly compelling reasons are its positive impact on liver health and beautiful skin, which are the key focus of this article. However, before diving into the specifics of liver health and skin benefits, it's important to review the data on glutathione depletion and absorption.

GSH depletion can occur due to various oxidative stressors such as radiation, v.infections, enviro toxins, household chemicals, heavy metals, surgery, inflammation, burns, septic shock, and dietary deficiencies of GSH precursors and enzyme cofactors. Additionally, research suggests that GSH levels tend to decline with age.

The bioavailability of glutathione as a dietary supplement has encountered challenges in the past. Studies in the 1990s suggested that oral GSH might be inactivated by peptidases in the gut, as the levels of glutathione in the body did not seem to correlate with dietary intake, despite its presence in fruits, vegetables, and meats. Moreover, previous studies showed no significant increase in blood GSH levels when subjects were given high doses of 1,000-3,000 mg. As a result, alternative strategies like supplementation with NAC were used to boost GSH levels.

In 2014, something interesting happened that changed the way we look at the bioavailability of GSH. A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry shed new light on the old research. This study showed that GSH, when taken in its intact form as OPITAC, a yeast-derived glutathione by Kohjin/Mitsubishi, can actually be rapidly transported across intestinal epithelial cells. Once inside, it gets rapidly converted into oxidized glutathione (GSSG) and accumulates in red blood cells and the liver, with only a small presence in plasma. So, although the GSH was indeed absorbed, it didn't show up in blood plasma because it transformed into GSSG and stored in the red blood cells and the liver. The bottom line is, supplementing with GSH is an effective way to boost GSH levels in the body.

This finding was further confirmed in another study that described how OPITAC, as a yeast-derived glutathione by Kohjin/Mitsubishi, is directly absorbed in its electrochemically reduced form in the intestine, then transported in the blood in bound forms, and eventually deposited into the liver in its reduced form.

But here's where it gets even more significant. A six-month randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial involving 54 adults was conducted to investigate the effects of oral GSH supplementation (250 or 1,000 mg/day, as OPITAC glutathione, Kohjin/Mitsubishi) on GSH levels in various parts of the body, including blood, erythrocytes, plasma, lymphocytes, and exfoliated buccal mucosal cells. The results were astounding. After one, three, and six months, GSH levels in blood increased significantly compared to baseline in both dosage groups. At the six-month mark, GSH levels skyrocketed 30-35 percent in erythrocytes, plasma, and lymphocytes, and a mind-boggling 260 percent in buccal cells in the 1,000 mg group (P < 0.05). Even in the low-dose group, GSH levels in blood and erythrocytes increased by 17 and 29 percent, respectively (P < 0.05). This research clearly demonstrates that supplementation with GSH is not only effective for increasing GSH levels in the body but also for maintaining them.

So, to sum it all up, the evidence speaks volumes - supplementing with GSH can have a profound impact on your body's GSH levels, and trust me, that's definitely a good thing!

Liver Health

When it comes to our well-being, the liver is a true superhero. Let's dive into some fascinating details about this essential organ.

Did you know that the liver is not only the largest reservoir of GSH (glutathione) but also a major site of GSH manufacture in the body? Pretty impressive, right? Special cells in the liver work tirelessly to synthesize GSH, which plays a crucial role in detoxification. Speaking of detoxification, the liver is a champion in this field. Its cells have sophisticated mechanisms to break down toxic substances, be it internal or external compounds.

During the detoxification process, the liver attaches or conjugates the toxins to water-soluble substances. This attachment makes the toxic molecules more water-soluble, less harmful, and easier to eliminate via urine or bile. In fact, glutathione conjugation produces water-soluble mercaptates that are excreted via the kidneys, effectively detoxifying acetaminophen and nicotine. Isn't it amazing how this process helps our bodies get rid of harmful substances?

But that's not all. Adequate levels of glutathione are crucial for the elimination of fat-soluble compounds, particularly heavy metals like mercury and lead. What's more, GSH serves as a cofactor for various peroxidase enzymes, aiding in the detoxification of peroxides generated from oxygen radical attacks on biological molecules. It also assists transhydrogenase enzymes in reducing oxidized centers on DNA, proteins, and other biomolecules. Talk about a multitasker!

The practical significance of this liver superhero was demonstrated in a study involving workers exposed to lead. A group of five workers received GSH at 200 mg/day for 30 days, while five others served as the control group. The results were striking. The group receiving GSH showed a significant increase in ALA dehydratase activity (which is inhibited by lead) compared to the control group (p < 0.05). This indicates that GSH could be a valuable solution for treating patients with lead poisoning.

So, let's take a moment to appreciate the remarkable liver and its incredible role in maintaining our health and well-being!

Alcohol Intoxication

Alcohol consumption is widely recognized for its capability to induce hepatic steatosis, also known as fatty liver disease, and disrupt biomembranes due to hepatic lipid peroxidation. This can lead to various lifestyle-related diseases and even hepatic cirrhosis by diminishing hepatic physiological function. Nevertheless, animal studies have shown that hepatic damage caused by alcohol intoxication can be mitigated by glutathione (GSH), a powerful antioxidant found in cells.

To further investigate the impact of GSH supplementation on the effects of alcohol intake, a human crossover comparative study was conducted. The study involved twenty healthy men and women who were grouped into three categories: placebo, 100 mg GSH (as OPITAC glutathione, Kohjin/Mitsubishi), and 30 mg curcumin. The study evaluated laboratory parameters, including breath alcohol concentration at different time intervals (20, 60, 120, and 180 minutes post-alcohol consumption) as measured by an alcohol checker. Additionally, subjective feelings were assessed through a questionnaire. During the study, all participants consumed whiskey in a quantity equal to their body weight multiplied by 1.25 mL, and were instructed to drink the entire sample within 10 minutes.

The results revealed that the breath alcohol concentration in the group supplemented with GSH significantly decreased compared to the placebo and curcumin groups at 20 (p<0.01), 60 (p<0.01), 120 (p<0.05), and 180 (p<0.08) minutes post-consumption. Furthermore, the GSH group reported lower levels of "sleepiness," "headache," and "upset stomach" in the subjective feeling questionnaire. Importantly, the concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), an indicator of alcohol-induced organ damage, was significantly lower in the GSH group after two months compared to the placebo group.

The oral intake of GSH has demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing alcohol consumption-related stress and improving long-term hepatic function. These findings highlight the potential benefits of GSH supplementation in alleviating the detrimental effects of alcohol intoxication on the liver.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the build-up of fat in the liver of individuals who consume little or no alcohol. Unfortunately, NAFLD is quite common, affecting nearly one-third of all American adults. Interestingly, it often presents without readily apparent signs or symptoms, sometimes resulting in complications, and can lead to liver inflammation and scarring as the fat accumulates. Additionally, NAFLD is typically associated with conditions such as insulin resistance, central obesity, reduced glucose tolerance, type-2 diabetes, and elevated triglyceride levels.

Recognizing the substantial role glutathione (GSH) plays in phase 2 liver detoxification, a pilot trial was conducted to examine the therapeutic effects of GSH supplementation in patients with NAFLD. The trial included 29 individuals, and the patients were provided with daily oral supplementation of GSH at a dose of 300 mg (in the form of OPITAC glutathione, from Kohjin/Mitsubishi). The patients' clinical parameters were assessed before and after the GSH supplementation, and liver fat and fibrosis were quantified as well. The primary goal of the study was to determine any changes in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels. The results indicated a significant decrease in ALT levels following the GSH supplementation. Furthermore, triglycerides, non-esterified fatty acids, and ferritin levels also showed a reduction. This pilot study provides promising evidence for the potential therapeutic effects of oral glutathione administration, even at practical doses, in patients diagnosed with NAFLD. However, further investigation through large-scale clinical trials is necessary to validate its efficacy.

In summary, NAFLD is a prevalent condition with potential serious consequences, but studies like the aforementioned pilot trial shed light on potential treatment options such as GSH supplementation. The findings demonstrate the need for continued research in order to provide more conclusive evidence and expand our understanding of NAFLD management.

Beautiful Skin

By activating melanocytes in the skin, there is a notable increase in melanin formation, resulting in various blemishes such as freckles, pigmentation, and UV-induced skin spots, commonly known as age spots or liver spots. This is especially prominent after prolonged sun exposure and tanning. Age spots appear when melanin becomes concentrated or "clumped" in areas that have had years of frequent sun exposure. Luckily, there are materials like glutathione that can prevent or improve such pigmentation-related skin conditions.

Another aspect to consider is skin pigmentation, wrinkles, and pores. In a study conducted with eight women in their 30s or early 40s, each supplemented with 100 mg/day of GSH (as OPITAC glutathione, Kohjin/Mitsubishi) for two months, their skin conditions were evaluated using the Robo Skin Analyzer. Several parameters were analyzed, including skin brightness, the amount and area of skin pigmentation, number of pores, and number of wrinkles under the eyes. It was observed that all subjects' skin brightness improved when measured on the second day of the study. Additionally, over the course of the two months, both the amount and area of skin pigmentation decreased, leading to an improvement in blemishes and pigmentation. Not only did glutathione exhibit a whitening effect, but it also reduced the number of wrinkles under the eyes and minimized pores.

Furthermore, a randomized, double-blind, two-arm, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 60 otherwise healthy medical students. The purpose was to investigate whether supplementing with 500 mg of glutathione daily for four weeks would affect the skin melanin index compared to a placebo. Melanin indices were measured at six different sites on the body. The results demonstrated that melanin indices consistently decreased at all six sites in subjects who received glutathione after four weeks. The reductions were statistically significant compared to those who received the placebo at two sites: the right side of the face and the sun-exposed left forearm (p = 0.021 and 0.036, respectively). This improvement was likewise reflected in the reduction of UV spots. Importantly, both glutathione and placebo were well-tolerated. In conclusion, oral administration of glutathione leads to a lightening of skin color in the tested subjects.

Skin Lightening

Skin lightening is a process that is of interest to many individuals who seek to achieve a more even and radiant complexion. In recent studies, the use of a lozenge containing GSH 500 mg was explored as a means of skin lightening through an open-label, single-arm trial. The focus of this trial was to evaluate the buccal mucosa as a route for GSH administration and its potential in relation to skin lightening. It is worth noting that substances absorbed through the buccal route have the advantage of entering directly into the systemic circulation, effectively bypassing the gastrointestinal tract.

The trial involved thirty Filipino females with Fitzpatrick skin types IV or V who received a daily glutathione-containing lozenge for eight weeks. The results from this trial demonstrated a significant decrease in melanin indices from baseline to endpoint. What is fascinating is that this visible change became evident in as little as two weeks. It is important to highlight that during this trial, there were no recorded serious adverse events, and the laboratory examination findings remained normal. Based on these findings, the researchers concluded that the lozenge containing glutathione was deemed safe and effective in lightening the skin of Filipino women.

In addition to the aforementioned buccal route administration, another interesting approach that emerged from the studies is the topical application of GSH. A double-blind randomized clinical trial35 conducted in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, involved 74 healthy Indonesian women, with an average age of 33.3 ± 5.9 years, to explore the potential benefits of topical GSH. The trial subjects received supervised applications of facial wash twice a day, along with day cream containing sunscreen and night cream. The subjects were divided into three groups based on the active ingredients of the tested products, which included GSH (as OPITAC glutathione, Kohjin/Mitsubishi) at concentrations of 0.1 percent and 0.5 percent, and a control group without GSH.

Throughout the trial, the effects of the tested products on skin color and pigmentation were measured using colorimetry with Chromameter Minolta for L. Compared to the baseline measurements, there were significant increases in lightness (L) detected as early as week 2 for the group using GSH at 0.1 percent concentration. Interestingly, this increase was significantly higher compared to the group using GSH at the higher concentration of 0.5 percent, as well as the group without GSH. It is important to note that hyperpigmented lesions also showed improvement, particularly in the group using GSH at 0.5 percent concentration, which displayed superiority compared to the other groups at week 8. In conclusion, the skin care products containing GSH at 0.1 percent and 0.5 percent concentrations were found to be effective in lightening facial skin.

The findings from these studies shed light on the potential benefits of GSH in achieving skin lightening, either through buccal administration or topical application. It is worth noting that these studies focused on specific populations and more research is necessary to explore its effectiveness and safety across different skin types and ethnicities.

In summary, the administration of Glutathione sublingual clinically studiedglutathione, whether oral, buccal, or topical, has shown promising results in skin lightening and the improvement of complexion. Studies have demonstrated that glutathione not only enhances skin brightness but also reduces hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and minimizes pores. Moreover, its effects have been evident in as little as two weeks, with a sustained impact over longer periods. These benefits were observed across a range of different skin types and ethnicities. However, it is important to highlight that these findings are based on specific populations, and more research needs to be conducted to confirm the consistency of these effects across a broader spectrum of skin types and ethnicities. The studies have also confirmed that the usage of glutathione is well-tolerated with no serious adverse effects reported.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6592)


The Benefits of Horse Chestnut Extract
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Date: October 25, 2022 04:43 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Benefits of Horse Chestnut Extract

Horse chestnut extract is a popular ingredient in European herbalism. It has many active constituents, including saponins and flavones, which have been scientifically shown to support the integrity of the vascular system and connective tissue.* Rutin, a powerful free radical scavenger, has been added to complete this formula.* Horse chestnut helps support healthy vascular system.

What is Horse Chestnut?

Horse chestnut is an flowering plant that is native to the Balkans. The tree can grow up to 30m tall and flowers in early summer. The fruit is a glossy brown nut that contains saponin.

The Benefits of Horse Chestnut

Horse chestnut extract is rich in saponins, flavones, and tannins, which are all substances that have been shown to support the health of the vascular system.* In addition, horse chestnut extract also contains rutin, a potent antioxidant.* Together, these nutrients work to help maintain healthy circulation and support the structure of connective tissue.*

How to Use Horse Chestnut Extract

Horse chestnut extract can be found in capsules or liquid extracts. For best results, follow the dosage instructions on the product label.

Rutin and its potential benefits

Rutin is a phytochemical that can be found in a wide variety of plants. Rutin-rich foods include apples, blackberries, buckwheat, chokeberries, cranberries, fonts, grapefruit, lemons, limes, onions, oranges, pineapples, tangerines, and many more. This nutrient is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been linked to a number of potential health benefits.

Some of the potential benefits associated with rutin intake include:

  • - Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
  • - Lowered blood pressure
  • - Improved circulation
  • - A stronger immune system
  • - Reduced inflammation
  • - Relief from symptoms of arthritis.

While research on the effects of rutin is ongoing, there is some preliminary evidence to suggest that this nutrient could offer a wide range of health benefits.

If you are looking for an herbal supplement to support healthy circulation and connective tissue, consider horse chestnut extract.* This potent formula contains saponins, flavones, tannins, and rutin—all of which have been shown to support vascular health.* Try horse chestnut extract today and see for yourself how this herb can help you maintain optimal health.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6525)


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

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

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

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

Milk Thistle is a Traditional Herbal Remedy with Many Benefits

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

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

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


Study: Curcumin, a polyphenol in turmeric, can selectively targetcancer stem cells
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Date: May 02, 2019 11:57 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Study: Curcumin, a polyphenol in turmeric, can selectively targetcancer stem cells





According to a study published in the journal Anticancer Research, curcumin can destroy stem cells that cause cancer. Turmeric is a plant that has been used in traditional Asian medicine to treat a variety of conditions. Curcumin, a polyphenol found in turmeric, is the source of turmeric's health benefits. Recent research suggests that curcumin can selectively target and destroy cancer stem cells. Cancer stem cells, which are resistant to chemotherapy and radiation, and can actually be spread by surgery, are the most lethal type of cancer cell.

Key Takeaways:

  • In health foods, there are common health foods and superfoods that stand head and shoulders above the rest and could be labeled miracle foods.
  • Turmeric has been used for thousands of years in Chinese and ayurvedic medicine due to the presence of curcuminoids in it that has power antioxidant properties.
  • Curcumin has several health benefits which include boosting brain power, lowering the risk of brain diseases, reducing the risk of heart disease, and preventing Alzheimer’s disease.

"One of the most well-known of these amazing foods is curcumin, the polyphenol that gives turmeric its beautiful, bright yellow color."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-14-curcumin-polyphenol-in-turmeric-can-selectively-target-cancer-stem-cells.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6234)


The Differences Between Hemp Seed Oil and Hemp CBD Oil
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Date: April 29, 2019 02:49 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Differences Between Hemp Seed Oil and Hemp CBD Oil





With the increasing popularity of legalizing marijuana and CBD, along with many sates’ hopes of doing so, it will be imperative for the general public to understand the differences between Hemp Seed Oil and CBD oil. Becky Garrison has compiled a short recap on why consumers need to pay attention to the letters CBD when shopping. Hemp as a general term is more focused on skin care routines, vitamin supplementation and household products, CBD would help more with medical ailments such as pain and anxiety.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hemp seed oil is pressed from the hemp plant's seeds, much like sunflower oil.
  • If you want high quality CBD, it is extracted from the flowers of female-only hemp plants.
  • Hemp seeds do have a number of nutritional benefits, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamins A and E.

"Due to this confusion in which "hemp seed oil" is often mistakenly called "hemp oil," consumers should check the label to ensure they are purchasing the correct product for their needs. If you're looking for CBD, hemp seed oil isn't what you want; and if you're looking for hemp-based products for their nutritional content, then you may be disappointed in a hemp oil CBD product."

Read more: https://www.civilized.life/articles/the-difference-between-hemp-seed-oil-and-hemp-cbd-oil/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6213)


Can I Eat Fruit On a Keto Diet?
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Date: April 25, 2019 04:45 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can I Eat Fruit On a Keto Diet?





The ketogenic diet is now trending across the globe, but many have many impressions about this eating regimen that are far from the truth. One of these myths surround the fact that keto dieters cannot consume any carbs at all, making the majority of fruits off limits. Keto followers can actually have up to 50 grams of carbohydrates to start, and they are encouraged to consume healthy fruits that are low in carbohydrates such as lemons or avocados.

Key Takeaways:

  • People often ask if they can eat fruit on a ketogenic diet because in the keto world fruits are often a contentious subject.
  • It is wrong for people to label some foods as keto or non-keto rather they should set diet goals based on their health, activity level, and food preferences.
  • For people who adhere to a very strict definition of keto, the carbs in a fruit can take away a large chunk of their daily carb recommendations.

"Higher carb fruits are going to be harder to incorporate into a keto diet while still allowing room for the liberal intake of vegetables and avocados encouraged in the Keto Reset."

Read more: https://www.marksdailyapple.com/fruit-keto/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6184)


Coenzyme Q10: Research confirms ubiquinone and ubiquinol are nearlyequally-absorbed ...
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Date: April 22, 2019 04:29 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Coenzyme Q10: Research confirms ubiquinone and ubiquinol are nearlyequally-absorbed ...





Many Coenzyme Q10 products have labels that indicate that their product is better absorbed due to longtime beliefs surrounding ubiquinol (reduced Coenzyme Q10) being hard for the body to absorb. Many brands instead market ubiquinone, which is redox Coenzyme Q10 instead, since studies have been more supportive about this form being easier for the body to absorb. New research, however, is concluding that both of these forms are equal when it comes to the ability to be absorbed through the body.

Key Takeaways:

  • According to Coenzyme Q10 expert Dr. William Judy, there is very little difference in the absorption rates of ubiquinol and ubiquinone.
  • Both forms of CoQ10 contain antioxidants and are critical for overall mitochondrial health.
  • CoQ10 can be beneficial for those suffering from Parkinson's disease and has been shown to provide headache relief in adolescent and pediatric populations.

"Marketing terms such as “better absorbed” should be questioned unless the absorption or bioavailability is actually stated. Only when the actual absorption has been verified can the better absorbed product be determined."

Read more: https://wholefoodsmagazine.com/columns/vitamin-connection/coenzyme-q10-research-confirms-ubiquinone-and-ubiquinol-are-nearly-equally-absorbed-compounds-the-physical-form-and-companion-ingredients-make-the-bioavailability-and-absorption-difference-in-coenz/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6152)


A little oregano oil can go a long way for your immune system
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Date: February 11, 2019 02:50 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: A little oregano oil can go a long way for your immune system





Having a lower functioning immune system is never any fun. Have you ever wondered what you could do to give it a good boost on a regular time frame? In her new article, Emily Laurence focuses on adding a few drops of oregano oil into your daily routine could help ward off any bad bacteria that may enter your system. Make sure to read all warning labels and possibly consult your doctor, as she touches on, if you take enough of this you may end up with negative results.

Key Takeaways:

  • Research studies indicate that oregano can help fight off bacterial infections, which is especially beneficial during cold and flu season.
  • One good option that many have during cold and flu season is to supplement with oregano to gain its benefits.
  • Oregano alone isn't going to prevent nasty cold and flu symptoms; it is most effective in combination with hot soup and adequate sleep.

"The active compound in oregano, carvacrol, is antimicrobial, meaning it kills bad bacteria, says certified health coach and director of food and beverage at Equinox Katzie Guy-Hamilton in an interview with Furthermore."

Read more: https://www.wellandgood.com/good-food/oregano-oil-benefits/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6018)


Congress Finally Frees Hemp From Jail: Big News For Farmers and CBDIndustry
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Date: January 06, 2019 04:20 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Congress Finally Frees Hemp From Jail: Big News For Farmers and CBDIndustry





The Farm Act that was recently passed by Congress allows farmers across the nation to freely grow hemp as they please. Unfortunately, there are still restrictions set on the production of CBD products, which leaves a grey area in terms of what is acceptable and unacceptable. CBD oil is becoming more and more prevalent in treating psychological symptoms without the psychoactive effects that marijuana has. Industry leaders suspect that this bill passing is the first step in the CBD industry ultimately exploding.

Key Takeaways:

  • Since 1970, hemp has had the black label on the Schedule 1 drug. But recently, congress gave it its freedom and legalized it.
  • Despite the passing of the bill on hemp, the status of CBD by the food and drug administration is as an illegal substance.
  • Hemp does not take much to grow. It requires little water, is excellent for the soil and does not require pesticides.

"At any rate, the passing of the Farm Bill is sure to have implications on the growing CBD industry."

Read more: https://www.thealternativedaily.com/congress-frees-hemp-from-jail-news-farmers-cbd-industry/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5937)


Flaxseed is one of the world's most important medicinal foods
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Date: November 15, 2018 09:51 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Flaxseed is one of the world's most important medicinal foods





Flaxseed is available in an oil and in liquid form and can be consumed through many different means. Considering that it is a food that has been labeled a 'superfood' and one that has considerable medicinal properties, it is worth adding to your diet. Flaxseed is loaded with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and many other good-for-you ingredients that help you ward-off cancer, high cholesterol, and other health concerns that have a negative impact on your life.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are so many different foods out there that are proven to be good medicines.
  • Doctors are relying on some of these more natural remedies for relieving the discomfort of some patients.
  • Understanding all of the nutritional facts within certain foods is a big step towards having a great diet.

"Flaxseed is the latest of many superfoods that can provide a bounty of nutritional value while improving your overall health."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-11-12-flaxseed-important-medicinal-food.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5833)


Why you need sodium, and how much is necessary?
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Date: September 05, 2018 08:52 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Why you need sodium, and how much is necessary?





Why you need sodium, and how much is necessary – too much or too little causes health issues

Even though sodium is required for basic survival, over half of Americans consume too much of it, largely because it is so heavily used in processed foods. Too much sodium can cause a number of symptoms, including swelling from water retention, excessive thirst, brain fog, and hypertension. On the other hand, too little sodium (hyponatremia) is also dangerous to your health, especially To cardiac function. To keep your sodium within healthy limits, it’s important to really know what’s in your food, and avoid processed foods as much as possible.

Key Takeaways:

  • The FDA recommends that you consume about a teaspoon of salt every day.
  • Most of the salt we consume comes via processed foods, not from the salt shaker on our tables.
  • If you want to consume less sodium, learn to read labels and be especially careful when ordering food at restaurants.

"It is no secret that most of us consume way more sodium than our bodies need."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-08-13-why-you-need-sodium-and-how-much-is-necessary-too-much-or-too-little-causes-health-issues.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5746)


Vitamin D is so important researchers worry about ethics of limiting supplementation to perform research trials
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Date: April 15, 2018 05:17 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Vitamin D is so important researchers worry about ethics of limiting supplementation to perform research trials





Vitamin D is so important researchers worry about ethics of limiting supplementation to perform research trials

In order to effectively study vitamin defriciencies, many pharmaceutical agencies hold controlled studies that are overlooked by medical physicians. These are typically done by giving some participants the vitamin supplement, while others get a placebo. In the case of vitamin D, however, experts are labeling studies to be unethical because of the potential damage that participants could face if they become deficient while on the placebo due to their vitamin D levels dramatically dropping to an unsafe level.

Key Takeaways:

  • Many researchers view Vitamin D as so important to overall health that they are concerned about the ethics around limiting D supplementation specifically for research.
  • According to Dr. Leigh Frame of George Washington University School of Medicine, denying someone deficient in vitamin D could cause both long- and short-term health problems.
  • One solution to this dilemma would be to allow vitamin D studies but to monitor all participant’s D levels and provide the placebo group a rescue repletion at the completion of the study.

"In case you needed any more proof of how essential vitamin D is to good health, researchers have warned that placebo-controlled trials that involve limiting some people’s intake of the all-star nutrient could be considered unethical."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2018-04-13-vitamin-d-is-so-important-researchers-worry-about-ethics-of-limiting-supplementation-research-trials.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5579)


Sugar: A Dangerous and Addictive Drug?
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Date: October 12, 2017 10:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Sugar: A Dangerous and Addictive Drug?





Sugar has been known to be addictive for a while. The body and brain can begin to crave it. It can cause many health problems as well if it is not controlled. Be careful not to consume too much sugar if you want to remain healthy. Your body will thank you. Sugar negatively affects many parts of it including the teeth. Diabetes can occur if you overindulge as well. A weight problem can also occur.

Key Takeaways:

  • Inappropriate labeling of sugar has contributed, in part, to the rapid growth in consumption of sugar in America.
  • Although experts have long hesitated to label it as such, new evidence suggests sugar is a harmful and habit-forming drug.
  • Despite the food industry's effort to minimize appreciation of sugar's harmful effects, its intake is now becoming a major public health issue.

"Two hundred years ago, the average American ate 2 pounds of sugar per year. Today, we each eat about 152 pounds a year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services."

Read more: https://www.theepochtimes.com/sugar-a-dangerous-and-addictive-drug_2320725.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5330)


Unable to develop a new antibiotic drug for decades, new research "discovers" potential in a compound from honeybees, ignoring the fact that natural medicine has used bee pollen for years
TopPreviousNext

Date: September 23, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Unable to develop a new antibiotic drug for decades, new research "discovers" potential in a compound from honeybees, ignoring the fact that natural medicine has used bee pollen for years





The University of Chicago has recently announced findings that bee pollen has antimicrobial properties, something that practitioners of natural medicine have known for years. It fights bacteria in a different way than conventional antibiotics and with the rising prevalence of antibiotic resistant microbes, this is potentially a game changer. The potential is great but also precarious as pesticide use has drastically decreased the bee population in the last few years. Hopefully science realizes just how important natural remedies are before it is too late.

Key Takeaways:

  • New research has discovered potential from a compound derived from honeybees. But that ignores the fact that natural medicine has used bee pollen for some time.
  • Years have passed since natural medicine has used bee pollen initially. That has seen the development of new approaches to medicine on the whole.
  • The new antibiotic drug has been in use for some time now too. That has opened up new potential for a market for the antibiotic drug.

"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have labeled antibiotic resistance as one of the most pressing public health issues in the world as illnesses that used to be easy to treat become deadly."

Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-09-14-unable-to-develop-a-new-antibiotic-drug-for-decades-new-research-discovers-potential-in-a-compound-from-honeybees.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5275)


Natural cannabinoids from omega-3 fatty acids combat inflammation
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Date: July 24, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Natural cannabinoids from omega-3 fatty acids combat inflammation





A medical news website reports that the body produces molecules that have the sane anti-inflammatory traits as marijuana. These molecules come from fatty acids found in meat and fish. These molecules are labeled as endocannabinoids, meaning they are naturally made within the body. An equation is included. The article explains how these molecules fight inflammation. They can also help with blood vessel issues. The article concludes with the hope that scientists can use this information to fight inflammation without using marijuana, which has mind altering qualities.

Key Takeaways:

  • Scientists have discovered a new group of molecules produced in the body that have anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of marijuana
  • Although the medicinal uses of cannabis, or marijuana, have been documented in records that go back 4,700 years, it was not until 1964 that we found out how it worked.
  • Since then, it has been shown that THC mimics a natural brain chemical, one of many "endocannabinoids" - that is, cannabinoids that are produced naturally in the body.

"Some cannabinoids, such as THC in marijuana or endocannabinoids can bind to these receptors and elicit anti-inflammatory and anti-pain action"

Read more: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318528.php

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5028)


This American Doctor Reveals Us The Most Powerful Natural Antibiotic That Kills Any Infection!!
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Date: June 24, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: This American Doctor Reveals Us The Most Powerful Natural Antibiotic That Kills Any Infection!!





An American doctor gives a remedy for diseases that affect many people on a regular basis such as the flu, colds, and or respiratory problems. The remedy consists of raw garlic and organic honey in order for the remedy to work better. Garlic in many cultures is called white gold, which has allicin, the substance released when the garlic is chopped up. The honey should have no air bubbles in it when added to the bottle of chopped garlic. Make sure the bottle is labeled and stored in a cool dry place. It can last on the shelf for up to three months. It can be added to other foods and or taken in two tablespoon doses for easing the symptoms of the flu or other respiratory illnesses.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zxpENGmHxs&rel=0

Key Takeaways:

  • Rather than go to the pharmacy for fancy expensive antibiotics, one can notice a lot of positive results with the consumption of honey and garlic.
  • An American doctor has figured out a way to combine garlic and honey effectively to take advantage of each's medicinal benefits.
  • With one head of garlic, half a liter of honey, and a bottle, you peel and chop of the garlic and put it in a jar with the honey that is air tight, stored in a cool dry place for 20 days.

"But on this occasion we will teach you how to prepare an excellent natural antibiotic which consists of two well known ingredients, honey and garlic."

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4876)


Jarrow challenges FDA on probiotics
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Date: June 05, 2017 11:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Jarrow challenges FDA on probiotics





Jarrow Formulas Inc. has released a 32 page comment challenging the FDA on it's stance on probiotics. It notes how the FDA won't approve the term probiotics in several cases, instead using the phrase active cultures and just how the FDA labels probiotics in general. The company also takes issue with the fact that fermentation is considered chemical alteration under the current guidelines. The draft was vetted by the supplement company's lawyers and could dramatically change dietary guidelines if accepted.

Read more: Jarrow challenges FDA on probiotics

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4774)


You’ve Been Buying Fake Salt for Years ! Here is What You Need to KNOW
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Date: June 01, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: You’ve Been Buying Fake Salt for Years ! Here is What You Need to KNOW





The picture of the different types of salts was interesting. I did not know it came in so many color. I have to admit I switched from regular table salt to sea salt. Just like the article states we have a lot of sea salt choices theses days. The most beneficial salt, which has more nutrients is said to be a brownish color. I know for myself it would be hard to make an adjustment from white salt to salt brown in color.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLWjwLZ2Nqg&rel=0

Key Takeaways:

  • The FDA mandates that salts, not having iodine, must warn the consumer of this fact specifically, on the label.
  • Unfortunately, the inorganic iodide found in table salt lacks the necessary supporting trace minerals found in naturally occurring iodine.
  • Table salt comes from earth-bound deposits and is heavily processed, whereas sea salt comes from barely processed, evaporated, ocean water.

"Virtually all salt is sea salt because it came from the sea at some point."

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4747)


Can Energy Drinks Cause Hepatitis?
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Date: April 09, 2017 06:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can Energy Drinks Cause Hepatitis?





Energy drinks are known for their high caffeine levels, but they also contain high levels of B vitamins and Niacin. In Erin Elizabeth's article, she claims that a man who drank about 5 of these energy drinks a day ended up in the hospital with acute hepatitis. She claims that the man took in so much niacin, that it built up and became toxic. She encourages her audience to read labels and research a product before consuming it, and know the effects that large quantities of even vitamins can do to the body.

Read more: Can Energy Drinks Cause Hepatitis?

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4387)


Medical News Today: Is rice gluten-free? Grains explained
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Date: March 25, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Medical News Today: Is rice gluten-free? Grains explained





Plain rice is gluten free naturally and is a good source of some nutrients and carbohydrates. People that are on a gluten free diet should always check labeling to make sure that gluten hasn't been added to a rice mixture. Rice does contain arsenic but it is mostly non toxic. People on gluten free diets have plenty of grains to choose from although many of these can only be found in health food stores. Persons with celiac disease must be careful to not eat gluten in any form.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rice, itself, is gluten free, but,often do have gluten due to contamination or use of other spices.
  • There are many other grains which are gluten free, that can help contribute to a balanced diet for those seeking a gluten free lifestyle.
  • Rice is a good alternative to gluten containing grains, but you can not get sufficient nutrients from rice alone

"Arsenic may cause health problems in people who eat significant amounts of rice and rice-based products daily."

Read more: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/316167.php

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4286)


Drug testing and CBD: Can a cannabidiol user test positive for marijuana?
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Date: March 23, 2017 01:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Drug testing and CBD: Can a cannabidiol user test positive for marijuana?





Cannabidiol (CBD) oil is known to have a myriad of health benefits and is becoming increasingly used to treat a variety of health conditions. It's even being used to treat pets for a growing number of conditions. It's also not intoxicating like many products with marijuana. For the many people who are wondering if CBD products will show up on a drug test, this article consults with a drug expert to find answers to this common question.

Key Takeaways:

  • its possible there are trace amounts of THC in cannabidiol to increase the effectiveness
  • the fda notified companies in 2015 & 2016 CBD labels were incorrect however they have still neglected the issue
  • The most responsible thing to do to insure the pass of a drug screen is to research the label of the mfg of the CBD to verify the potency/safety

"Both experts agree: As long as there is no THC in the CBD products, then a urine test would not yield a positive result for THC metabolites."

Read more: http://www.thecannabist.co/2017/03/10/marijuana-drug-test-cbd-cannabidiol-positive/74014/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4271)


How rare sugars might help control blood glucose
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Date: March 13, 2017 06:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How rare sugars might help control blood glucose





Someone's glucose levels being too high can be a major problem. This can cause many health issues. It can even lead to diabetes. This talks about how rare sugars can actually help lower levels. It's funny to think of sugars being good for you but this explains it in a more understandable way.

Key Takeaways:

  • There are natural sugars that can replace sucrose (normal sugar) to improve diet without much sacrifice to flavor. These are called "rare sugars."
  • Some rare sugars can be manufactured from ingredients we already have in abundance, like allulose can be made from high fructose corn syrup.
  • Experiments performed on rats showed that rare sugar intake is similarly desirable to the test animals, but resulted in considerably less body mass gain.

"In an era when the label “natural” hits a sweet spot with consumers, some uncommon sugars emerging on the market could live up to the connotation."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://knowridge.com/2017/03/how-rare-sugars-might-help-control-blood-glucose/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGmE1ZjVlMDc0YzcwMWFjZWI6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNFWRReUAx-QV_H4GXYY4tKrWi5olg

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4129)


Fructose is generated in the human brain
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Date: February 24, 2017 10:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fructose is generated in the human brain





Fructose has been labeled as one of the sugars to avoid when selecting food at the store. However, a recent study out of Yale has shown that the brain can produce fructose from any sugar that is ingested. Some sugar is fine for a diet, but avoiding fructose will not keep your body free of the chemical. This leads to risk of high blood sugar and other health issues. The study may affect many diets and the understanding of obesity.

Fructose is generated in the human brain

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4008)


CBD - The Myths And Facts
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Date: January 26, 2017 02:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: CBD - The Myths And Facts





CDB is a cannabis compound that does not contain any THC, making some believe it is good. There have been some confusing reports recently in the British media about a compound in cannabis called CBD and how it has been reclassified as medicine. There are many facts and myths about it, but most importantly it is not weed, and has many uses.

Key Takeaways:

  • There have been some confusing reports recently in the British media about a compound in cannabis called CBD and how it has been reclassified as medicine.
  • CBD, otherwise known as Cannabidiol, is one of over 100 compounds in the cannabis plant called Cannabinoids. The most abundant is THC, the bit that gets people high, after that comes CBD.
  • Because CBD doesn’t create a high, it’s been labelled ‘the good’ cannabinoid and THC the ‘bad’. But in countries where medical cannabis is legal, THC can be prescribed for cancer patients going through chemo as it eases nausea and improves appetite.

"In the UK it has been possible to buy CBD as a nutritional supplement. But last October, the Medical Healthcare Regulatory Agency decided to recognise CBD’s therapeutic benefits and reclassify it as medicine."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/mary-biles1/cbd-the-myths-and-facts_b_14103666.html&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjViYjkzZDJlODZhNjI0ZWE6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNGjMixJys5iqFJENZphvCk8mFh5Jg

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3832)


Did cannabis oil prove to be a miracle cure for this little boy with epilepsy?
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Date: January 16, 2017 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Did cannabis oil prove to be a miracle cure for this little boy with epilepsy?





Bruno Delgado of Florida is one case that shows the miracle medicinal cannabis can provide to patients who suffer from seizures. He went from suffering from 300 seizures to barely any. It makes his condition much more manageable. In order to get to the point they are at, his mother had to go over the recommended dose imposed by Florida law. However, she says it is much more preferable to his suffering. Many people are calling for marijuana to be legalized so research can progress. Right now, they are hindered by legal restrictions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Florida is also planning to reduce the restrictions on medical cannabis after 71 percent people voted to support an amendment to the state constitution.
  • Cannabis' potential to cure and treat numerous ailments has been highlighted in numerous research conducted in the US and other parts of the world.
  • in the UK, the medicines regulator is planning to classify cannabidiol or cannabis-infused products as medicines from this year onwards

""Though cannabis use has now been legalised by above 50 American states, it is still considered illegal for any sort of usage and labelled as a narcotic drug by the federal government.""



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.ibtimes.co.in/cannabis-oil-acts-miracle-this-little-boy-epilepsy-us-710860&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjViYjkzZDJlODZhNjI0ZWE6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNFlC9chPQ6GB3akTsB1kpJFEfCPMw

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3790)


What changes are coming to the Nutrition Facts label?
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Date: January 02, 2017 09:39 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What changes are coming to the Nutrition Facts label?





Nutrition and how company’s market to consumers has been a hot topic lately. This article focuses on the changes coming to the nutritional labels included on many of the products you will find in your local grocery store. If you are the type of person who focuses on the labels included on the products you are buying, this is definitely a good read.

Key Takeaways:

  • Nutrition labels will now show serving sizes based on the sizes of the servings people typically eat, rather than on how much they should eat.
  • The FDA decided to include Added Sugars on the labels, based on the recommendation for Americans to have no more than 10 percent of the daily calories come from added sugars.
  • Calories from fat will no longer be seen on the nutrition labels since the type of fat is more important to health than total fat.

"Nutrition labels will now show serving sizes based on the sizes of the servings people typically eat, rather than on how much they should eat."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//msue.anr.msu.edu/news/what_changes_are_coming_to_the_nutrition_facts_label&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjY3NzEzYzg1MjE0ZjUwYzU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNGTXycY5MzIEkkgdHND5nT12WRaNg

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3733)


Even teethers labeled BPA-free may contain hormone-disruptors
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Date: December 26, 2016 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Even teethers labeled BPA-free may contain hormone-disruptors





A recent report in the journal Environmental Science and Technology states that 59 different teething devices they tested all came up positive for BPA, which is a known endocrine-disrupting chemical. They also found other dangerous chemicals present in some, but this is one of the most concerning. These chemicals disrupt normal hormone function and can cause abnormal growth and development in children. The real problem is that all of the products were marked as BPA-free. Obviously, stronger measures need to be put in place to make sure companies are properly advertising their products.

Key Takeaways:

  • Some baby teething toys marketed as non-toxic might contain chemicals that could interfere with hormones involved in normal growth and development, a study suggests.
  • All of the products tested positive for one such chemical, bisphenol-A (BPA), even though most of the teethers were marketed as BPA-free, researchers report in the journal Environmental Science and Technology.
  • In animal studies, endocrine-disrupting compounds such as BPA, parabens and antimicrobials have been shown to interfere with hormones and have harmful developmental, reproductive and neurological effects.

"In lab tests for the current study, researchers found BPA as well as a range of different parabens and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban in most of the teethers."



Reference:

https://www.yahoo.com/news/even-teethers-labeled-bpa-free-may-contain-hormone-193030007.html?ref=gs

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3704)


Too Much Salt for Our Kids
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Date: December 06, 2016 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Too Much Salt for Our Kids





Cardiovascular disease kills over 800,000 Americans each year, and high salt intake is a major culprit. Yet American children are having far more salt than the daily recommended limit – which puts them at increased risk of heart disease later in life. Feed your kids fresh fruits and vegetables without added sodium or sauces. Read nutrition labels and buy low sodium food.

Key Takeaways:

  • American children are consuming sodium at levels that far exceed the daily-recommended limit, which will put them at increased risk for developing cardiovascular problems later in life.
  • Sodium reduction is considered a key public health strategy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases nationwide and this study is the latest in ongoing CDC efforts to monitor U.S. sodium intake
  • According to the CDC, average sodium intake for kids was 3,256 milligrams per day, 50 to 60% above recommended depending on age.

"An easy way to assess sodium in a food is to focus on the amount of sodium per serving. Those foods with less than 140 mg per serving are considered low in sodium."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.creators.com/read/nutrition-news/11/16/too-much-salt-for-our-kids&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjY3NzEzYzg1MjE0ZjUwYzU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNHHU8hZmGZOQQYOCqnl96BUSvfqHQ

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The Benefits of Vitamin C Related to Skin, Nutrition & Health
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Date: December 05, 2016 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Benefits of Vitamin C Related to Skin, Nutrition & Health





Vitamin C is one of many essential nutrients that our bodies require to function properly. The list of benefits of getting the proper amount of this vitamin is quite long. Some of the main effects of vitamin C include stimulating the immune system to avoid illness and help in collagen production to discourage signs of aging and maintain connective tissues. Many foods can have vitamin C artificially added these days, so it’s important to read labels. Foods that naturally provide this wonder-supplement include citrus fruits, green vegetables, strawberries, milk, and potatoes.

Key Takeaways:

  • body requires a lot of vitamins on a daily basis in order to stay healthy. Vitamin C is one of these and its benefits are very much a major player in making sure the body stays healthy.
  • The development and maintenance of connective tissues such as such as fat, muscle and your bone structure.
  • It’s a powerful antioxidant that protects blood cells and your eyes.

"Vitamin C or L-ascorbic acid or L-ascorbate is an necessary nutrient for humans and certain other animal species, in which it functions as a vitamin."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//infloria.com/the-benefits-of-vitamin-c-related-to-skin-nutrition-health/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjVkYjY3ZDViNDdiNGM3ZTc6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNFNxtVG6xULNyHsFOpIuoK3SHMIUw

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How nutritious are plant-based milks?
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Date: December 03, 2016 10:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How nutritious are plant-based milks?





When deciding what type of milk to consume, it is best to read labels. While cow’s milk is fairly standard in the amount of nutrients it contains, plant-based milks can vary greatly depending on which company manufactures it. Unless there is a medical reason to do otherwise, it is recommended that all people consume cow’s milk. Soy, almond, coconut, and other nut milks can be lacking in their nutrients. Soy and nut milks contain a fair amount of protein, but none of the alternatives naturally contain calcium. It can be added, but these usually are not digested as well.

Key Takeaways:

  • Vegans and others may prefer to drink plant-based milks over milk that comes from animals, but a recent study in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition confirmed that young children should drink cow’s milk.
  • An eight-ounce glass of cow’s milk naturally contains about eight grams of protein and almost a third of the recommended percent daily value of calcium.
  • Nutritionally, plant-based milks noted pale in comparison to cow's milk; none contain more than a gram of protein unless fortified.

"An eight-ounce glass of cow’s milk naturally contains about eight grams of protein and almost a third of the recommended percent daily value of calcium. Cow’s milk also naturally contains nutrients like potassium and vitamin B12, and is usually fortified with vitamins A and D."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.myajc.com/news/lifestyles/food-cooking/how-nutritious-are-plant-based-milks/ns83K/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjY3NzEzYzg1MjE0ZjUwYzU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNFCC1HIvy4Tvv37PC3ave07tBwlUw

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Kids continue to consume too much salt, putting them at risk
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Date: November 30, 2016 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Kids continue to consume too much salt, putting them at risk





Reducing your sodium intake at a young age will help reduce your risk of a heart attack when you are an adult. Stay away from fast foods. Get in the habit of reading labels at a young age. That will help continue that habit into adulthood. Do not add extra salt to your food. Keep your sodium intake under 140mg per serving.

Key Takeaways:

  • Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, kills more than 800,000 Americans each year.
  • According to a new study in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, American children are consuming sodium at levels that far exceed the daily recommended limit.
  • Sodium reduction is considered a key public health strategy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases nationwide and this study is the latest in ongoing CDC efforts to monitor U.S. sodium intake,

"Taste preferences for high sodium foods, formed as children, follow individuals into adulthood and put them at increased risk for developing cardiovascular problems later in life."



Reference:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/11/161103090750.htm

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Two Common Food Additives Promote Colorectal Cancer
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Date: November 26, 2016 02:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Two Common Food Additives Promote Colorectal Cancer





Chances are you'll see the names of two common food additives that have been shown to promote colorectal cancer development. Previous studies have suggested that food additives known as emulsifiers may help cause inflammatory bowel disease, a condition that encourages tumor formation in the colon, scientists looked at the role of two emulsifiers in the development of colorectal cancer. Overall, the authors of the study concluded that their findings support the idea that the agitation from the emulsifiers resulted in low-grade inflammation in the gut, which can promote the development of colorectal cancer.

Key Takeaways:

  • Walk into a grocery store and start reading ingredient labels on some of the more popular processed foods, including ice cream.
  • For some food production, however, producers use synthetic emulsifiers to help water and oil mix.
  • Emulsifiers are molecules that have an oil-loving end and a water-loving end, and together they make certain foods such as ice cream and mayonnaise possible.

"A new study suggests that commonly used food additives in processed foods could play a significant role in the development of multiple sclerosis and other autoimmune conditions."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.emaxhealth.com/1275/two-common-food-additives-promote-colorectal-cancer&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGmZmMDFkMTU2YWMzMmQ5OTU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNFaRjFci8w75_6o3RobxLLd2r_5Ng

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These are the biggest mistakes people make when trying to eat healthy
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Date: November 15, 2016 07:04 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: These are the biggest mistakes people make when trying to eat healthy





There are some common pitfalls to avoid when you decide to start eating healthier. Just because something is labeled “healthy” doesn’t make it so. Check your labels and know your ingredients and then be sure to keep your portions under control as well. You still need to count your calories when you are eating healthy so you know if you are eating too much or too little, as both are common problems.

Key Takeaways:

  • it's entirely possible you'll step on the scale and still not see the progress you were after
  • Well-intentioned diets can go wrong in so many ways
  • Ignoring moderation because "it's healthy!" - so you're eating fresh, whole foods

"Ignoring moderation because "it's healthy!" - so you're eating fresh, whole foods."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//dailytimes.com.pk/infotainment/08-Nov-16/these-are-the-biggest-mistakes-people-make-when-trying-to-eat-healthy&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGmZjNGVlYTM1NDU3YmZmOGU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNEkr98_xmBaSmi2SNQHT0TeJkRAAw

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Sugar: What Kinds to Eat and When
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Date: November 08, 2016 07:09 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Sugar: What Kinds to Eat and When






You’ve made the decision to cut out sugars, but what does that mean now? Once we were told to focus on simple versus complex sugars, but today the question is whether the sugar you are eating is unrefined or processed. Unrefined sugars from whole foods still hold onto many of their other benefits, while processed foods have been stripped of their natural nutrients and turned into empty calories.

Key Takeaways:

  • All sugars are carbohydrates, known as "simple" carbs, since they're composed of just one sugar molecule.
  • For instance, one gram of a cracker will contain four calories, but one gram of an orange contains about 0.2 calories, because the bulk of its weight is water and fiber.
  • Although sugar is lower in total calories per gram than fat, it contributes mightily to a fatty frame.

"The label on a can of Pepsi reads 41 grams of carbs and 41 grams of sugar. This means that every single carbohydrate comes from sugar. The label on a package of plain oatmeal will read 18 grams of carbs and only one gram of sugar."



Reference:

//www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/sugar-what-kinds-eat-and-when-0


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Eating Healthy and Gluten-Free
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Date: October 24, 2016 09:21 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Eating Healthy and Gluten-Free

Eating healthy is something that really everyone should aspire to, but it's especially important for people with Celiac disease. Especially if you've just started making the transition to eating gluten free, you'll want to be sure that your new diet is made up of foods that will get you the nutrition you need. Fortunately, the easiest way to eat gluten free is also generally the healthiest. However, it's never a bad idea to supplement your diet with some gluten free multivitamins as well (yup, they can have gluten in them too).

Fresh Foods


Whether you can eat gluten or not, you're always going to be better off with fresh foods as the foundation of your diet. Fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally celiac friendly and are full of the nutrients your body is craving. While canned vegetables might be more convenient from time to time, buying this product just leads to a great label reading endeavor so that you can make sure there are no gluten-containing additives in the can.

Fresh fish is also a great source of nutrition and it is naturally gluten free. If you're used to those breaded salmon burgers, of course, you're going to have to make an adjustment. But cutting out breaded foods is much healthier for you anyway. If you're really craving it, though, you can make your own breading with gluten free flours.

Avoid Extra Processing


Essentially, just like anyone else trying to make healthy eating choices in today's world, you're going to want to steer clear of processed foods when you're putting together your gluten free diet. This is most significantly because processed foods are very likely to contain gluten in some form. In fact, many things that you would never expect contain gluten as a filler, binder or preservative.



The most important thing to remember when you're trying to eat healthy, gluten free or not, is that there's no one magic food or food group. You can't consume as much as you want of your favorite food and nothing else and expect to be healthy. Also, just because a food is gluten free doesn't mean it's good for you.


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new from Now Foods, Empty Glass Bottles to Mix Your Own Oils
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Date: September 28, 2016 05:07 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: new from Now Foods, Empty Glass Bottles to Mix Your Own Oils

Empty Glass Amber Glass bottles For The DIY beauty Products

With more and more consumers seeking healthier, natural alternatives to chemically laden mass market home products, the do-it-yourself (DIY) market continues to gain in popularity.  Making DIY beauty products is a trend that continues to gain steam, especially for those using essential oils and carrier oils such as jojoba, shea, and grape seed.


Now Solutions health and beauty line is well-positioned to capitalize on this emerging consumer trend, and we're making it even easier for you to do it your self.  These Empty bottles include blank labels so you will have everything you need to create your own recipes and samples based on individual tastes. 

Enjoy!


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Kava Roots Helps Those Suffering From Anxiety
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Date: September 21, 2016 05:25 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Kava Roots Helps Those Suffering From Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental disorder. Many treatment and preventive tips are available for these illnesses. For those who want to avoid prescription drugs, consider trying kava root as an alternative.

Kava is a shrub used in cooking and flavoring in many countries. It has a peppery taste and, in fact, has been considered to be a close relative of black peppers. In the Pacific region, kava root is extracted and widely used as a beverage. The psychoactive effects of the kava plant are imparted by its active component known as kavalactone.

 Kava Root has been used for:

  •  mental clarity
  •  better sociability
  • reduce anxiety.

Another common uses of kava root is for the improvement of sleep quality and pattern, and the relief of general body malaise, asthma attacks, insomnia and menopausal symptoms.

In many countries, kava is more popularly used  to ease symptoms of anxiety, stress, as well as depression. Many individuals reported that they have experienced a euphoric, calming effect after consuming kava root extract. It is also claimed to cause a feeling of wellness, focused mind and more relaxed muscles. Clinical experiments show that kava is highly effective in preventing anxiety attacks and exacerbation of depression.

Kava has been reported to be safe and not addictive to its users when used as directed.

Look for kava root in capsule, tablet, powder, or liquid forms at your local or internet vitamin store. Always choose name brands to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase for consumption. Read the label and make sure it contains at least 30% kavalactone.


References

 www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/kava

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130513095750.htm

https://www.konakavafarm.com/.../how-can-kava-help-with-anxiety

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First Day of School and your Child Comes Home Sick? Fight Back With This Remedy
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Date: August 30, 2016 09:47 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: First Day of School and your Child Comes Home Sick? Fight Back With This Remedy

It is quite disheartening when your beloved child comes home sick on his first day of school. And that is most likely due to bacteria back in their school. How do you deal with it? How do you ensure your child is healthy again and cushion him from such sicknesses in the future?

Digestive health is essential when fighting back against bacteria at school.

One way to boost digestive health is through soluble fiber. Acacia fiber is a kind of soluble fiber extracted from Acacia Senegal tree sap. It grows in Pakistan, India and some Parts of Africa. It is also known as the acacia gum or gum Arabic.

 The Acacia Fiber is also a prebiotic fibers essential for the strengthening of the good bacteria in the gut. Your child's first line of defense is in the digestive tract.  Keeping their friendly bacteria healthy can block the spread of bacteria in the digestive tract. 

Acacia fiber is odorless, flavorless and doesn’t cause bloating and gas (because it slows down what is known as colonic fermentation). The substance is very safe for continuous and even lifelong use. It has been labeled as safe for use in the treatment of children.

Fight back against school born bacteria by strengthening your child's own friendly bacteria with either a soluble fiber like acacia or by giving them a probiotic daily.


References:

  1. //www.helpforibs.com/shop/suplmts/acacia.asp
  2. //markusrothkranz.com/online-store/bodyforce/prebiotic-fiber.html#sthash.J51Ezqr9.dpbs
  3. https://www.verywell.com/the-benefits-of-acacia-fiber-89395

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Expelling Parasites and Worms with Black Walnuts
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Date: August 07, 2015 07:35 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Expelling Parasites and Worms with Black Walnuts

Parasites and worms are responsible for a number of health problems all over the world.  These organisms invade our bodies and feed on nutrients for their own sustenance.  Parasites can be both internal and external in nature. External parasites can generally be seen and are easier to get rid of.  You will find a number of standard medical treatments for this. However, it is the internal parasites that pose the higher threat.  It can be difficult to identify internal parasites and treatments require more effort.  These parasites usually attack the colon and intestines.  If left unchecked, they can cause a lot of damage to your body. While antibiotics are effective, they can have a few side effects.  So people have been looking for more natural alternatives.  Black walnut has shown a number of properties that are beneficial in fighting parasites.

Black Walnut

How does Black Walnut help in killing parasites and worms?

Black walnut has been universally acknowledged to be a strong vermifuge, that is a parasite-killing herb.  It has strong concentrations of Natural iodine, juglone and astringent tannins.  All these ingredients are well known for their parasite killing properties. One of the best methods of ingesting black walnut is by preparing a medicine that utilizes other similar organic foods like garlic, pineapples, papaya seeds and pumpkin seeds.  This helps clean the intestines and remove parasites and worms.


What are the effective black walnut recipes?

One of the most popular recipes involves using black walnuts, cloves and wormwood.  There are many products that utilize this combination and have been seen to give impressive results. Of course it also depends on the potency of the ingredients used.  For example, green black walnuts are generally known to be more effective than other lighter colored ones.  So it could be a good idea to look for these specific walnuts in the ingredients label.  They are likely to be stronger and can get faster results.  You will also see a number of freeze dried capsules available in the market that have a higher strength compared to normal medicines. Wormwood is herb that has been used in stomach treatment for centuries. It contains a number of enzymes that are good for cleaning the intestine. Hence, it can be found in conjunction with black walnut in medicines that fight parasites. With cloves too you should be careful, as they tend to lose their potency very fast.   So make sure that your medicine uses only fresh and completely organic cloves. You can either go in for manufactured pills that use these ingredients or can create your own recipes. Just make sure that you are using only the most effective constituents.

Apart from these herbs, you will also find a number of other natural solutions for getting rid of parasites and worms. These include papayas, pineapples and pumpkin seeds. Papayas can be highly effective as they contain a strong enzyme known as papain.


What other steps can I take?

If you are going through a parasite expelling phase, it will be good to regulate your diet in a proper manner. Avoid coffee, sugar, alcohol and other such items. Take care of your stomach and eat only fresh and light food. With a good diet, and the right herbs, you will soon be having a completely parasite-free body.


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Fake Herbal Supplements - the unfortunate truth of fraudulent business
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Date: June 12, 2015 12:51 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fake Herbal Supplements - the unfortunate truth of fraudulent business

The free and prolific operation of numerous fraudulent herbal medicine brands is a major concern to the health and economy of America. Major players in the vitamin and supplement industry are in legal trouble for selling mislabeled supplements and false advertising. This is consumer fraud that has come under the scanner.

Brand pills have been tested to verify the allegations. Herbs such as Ginseng was found to be just ground garlic and rice, Ginko biloba was reportedly powdered wheat and radish. Valerian root was found to be powdered peas and beans. Valerian root, an extract from Valeriana officinalis roots, has a pungent odor and a very unpleasant taste – physical characteristics that are not advertised by the brands. The smell of the herb is compared to the smell of sweaty socks and therefore customers prefer to take it as capsule or extract.

It is high time, that the brands give a real picture of their product in their advertisements so that consumers can have a proper and true idea. For the welfare of the consumers, they should stick to name brands for herbs to ensure that they pay for what they intend to buy.

Stick to name brands like SOLARAY, KAL, NOW FOODS, and SOURCE NATURALS.  These brands do 3rd party testing of their product ingredients as well as contaminant testing to ensure their ingredients are authentic, pure and safe to consume.


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What Is 2000fu In Nattokinse?
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Date: December 29, 2012 11:48 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is 2000fu In Nattokinse?

Nattokinase: History And Health Benefits

Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme that naturally occurs in natto. It is a traditional fermented soybean dish and a well-known staple food in Japan. Natto is fairly easy to make since it only requires water, straw and soybeans. The straw that has the bacterium called bacillus subtilis natto will be mixed with the freshly steamed soybean and water. After that, it will be set for fermentation. During fermentation, natto develops its mild taste and it has a very strong odor like that in the blue cheese.

In the year 1980, Dr. Hiroyuki Sumi was looking for a food that can effectively break up blood clots like those that can cause cardiac arrest and stroke. He discovered that natto can dissolve fibrin which is the type of protein that builds up in blood clots. In his laboratory experiment, he discovered that natto has the ability to completely dissolve fibrin clots after almost about 18 hours. Natto is low in cholesterol and it contains high quality protein and an excellent source of vitamin K, copper, iron, magnesium and manganese.

Nattokinase works similarly like blood-thinning agent coumadin. People who have had vascular injury or those people who are in risk of elevated fibrinogen level formation can benefit from the fibrin-digesting effects of nattokinase. It also reduces the thickening of the arteries and helps to heal damaged blood vessels.

What Does "FU" Mean in terms of Nattokinase?

Companies that manufacture nattokinase supplements express its activity in terms of "FU" or fibrin units. This is entirely different from the IU measurement since it only indicates nattokinase activity base on the degradation of fibrin. But as of today, IU is being officially adopted by the Japanese when measuring nattokinase. The FU method doesn't have exact measure of nattokinase activity and is suspected to be erroneous. Because of that, IU standard is being used to accurately measure nattokinase.

However, the FU measurement is still being widely used in labels. Most nattokinase supplements nowadays are in 100 mg capsule with 2,000-4,000 FU. As a precaution, it's best to consult a doctor first before taking nattokinase supplements for appropriate guidance and supervision with regards to its proper usage. Pregnant women including those people who have had stroke before or any other bleeding disorders must not take nattokinase supplements.

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Benefits of using natural bar soaps
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Date: May 27, 2012 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Benefits of using natural bar soaps

Natural Vs Unatural Soap Bars

Chemically manufactured bar soaps are not only unhealthy to your body but they are also harmful to the environment. These bars soaps are manufactured with a main purpose of generating profits to these companies without paying much attention to the health of your skin. Fortunately there are natural bar soaps that are manufactured specifically to care for your skin. Natural bar soaps are manufactured using palm, coconut, rice bran, sunflower, soya bean and castor oils. There are numerous benefits that you will enjoy when using natural soaps as opposed to using chemically produced soaps.

Among the most beneficial ingredient in soaps is glycerin. Commercially produced soaps are manufactured through the process of saponification. During saponification, all the glycerin that was used as an ingredient is removed and therefore the final product does not contain any glycerin. On the other hand during the manufacture of natural bar soaps, all the glycerin is maintained and therefore you get a chance to enjoy its benefits.

Natural Bar Soap

Natural bar soaps are not manufacturer using animal fats like the ones used in making commercial soaps. Animal fats are responsible for forming scum on the surface of the water during bath or washing. Therefore using natural bar soaps assure you of scum free water during bath.

Every ingredient in natural bar soap has unique quality that offers health benefit to your skin. On the contrary, commercially made soaps are manufactured using esthers, animal fat, low grade oils, wax,and alcohol. Esthers are known to be carcinogenic which makes them dangerous for your skin and also harmful to the environment. Many of the medicated soaps in the markets have triclosan as an ingredient. Triclosan is carcinogenic and can lead to skin cancer.

There are three manufacturing processes for making soaps i.e. hot process, melt and pour process and cold process. Melt and pour process produces transparent glycerin soaps. These soaps are not as harmful as commercial soaps but they are not natural soaps. Most of the commercial bar soaps are manufactured through the hot process. Due to the extensive heat used, all the benefits of natural soap are taken away. Natural bar soaps are manufactured using the cold process. During this process, animal fats, lye and oil combine to produce glycerin thereby giving the soap all the benefits of natural ingredients.

Great Smell And Good For The Skin

Natural soaps have a great smell that is derived from the ingredients used. Some of them are colored with natural colors which give them a more natural look. Therefore using these soaps not only does your skin look healthy but also smells great. Natural soaps do not rob your skin off its natural oils and therefore using these soaps ensures that your skin remains naturally smooth and softer. Chemically manufactured soaps will remove these oils from your skin leaving the skin dry and itchy. Natural soaps are suitable for all types of skins including the sensitive skins.

Due to the continued appreciation that people have on natural soaps, many soap manufacturers are labeling their soaps as natural even if they are not natural. It is therefore important that you understand what is meant by natural soaps. Natural bar soaps are made using organic compounds that have not been chemically altered in any way.

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What Is A Natural Carb Blocker?
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Date: November 05, 2011 01:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Is A Natural Carb Blocker?

Carbohydrate Blocker

There are so many individuals nowadays who are already overweight because of their natural love for food that are fattening. Overeating has now become a common problem for many individuals hence, has been the primary cause unto why weight problems have become more rampant. Despite how evident the problem is right now, people still find it very difficult to resist food thus, people having weight related problems is still growing in number.

Despite the fact that several diets has been formulated that could help you shed off extra pounds, many of these diets do not work for all because people find it so difficult to adhere to a tasteless diet even for just a week. Because not all diets are easy to adhere with, diet pills has been formulated by experts that helps block carbohydrate therefore, will aid you in getting rid of excess body weight.

Carb blockers are pills that helps inhibits the absorption of carbohydrates in your system. With the help of carb blockers, carbohydrates are passed out naturally which means that carbohydrates will no longer be metabolized by the body into fat. With this mechanism, build up or accumulation of fats in your body will be greatly reduced.

Brown seaweed extract is a notable carb blocker sold in the market today. This particular product is highly effectual and proven to relevantly reduce the absorption of carbohydrates in your body to as much as 82 percent. Weight loss is not the sole benefit of carb blockers because a good and effectual carb blocker also has the capacity of enhancing your metabolic rate which is highly necessary to make reduction of fat a lot faster. Another capacity of carb blockers is that it could significantly reduce appetite hence, will enable you to consume less food that can make you fat. This threefold effect that carb blockers could do for your body will really help you achieve your goals of losing weight. A weight loss of five pounds per week is a guarantee once you follow the recommendations indicated in the product’s label.

Because of the fact that there are already so many carb blockers that are sold in the market today, it is very necessary to choose those that are 100 percent natural and those that contains effectual components such as cactus extract, capsicum extract, prickly pear extract and brown seaweed extract. These components have innate properties that could help you lose weight faster.

Trying ways and means to make yourself more attractive to the eyes of the public is not bad as long as you will only engage on those modalities that will not bring harm on your body. Make sure that the regimens that you will try are highly safe and effectual. If it involves some risk, better not try the regimen because in the end, it is you who will suffer from the health consequences that the product might bring.

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How Does Now foods Test For Quality In Raw Materials?
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Date: October 26, 2011 10:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Does Now foods Test For Quality In Raw Materials?

  • In the past, Now Foods has always focused very heavily on incoming testing of raw materials and process controls to ensure the safety of our products. Most other companies in the past have relied exclusively on vendor provided Certificates of Analysis, doing little or NO testing of the incoming ingredients themselves.
  • The FDA GMPs were published June 25, 2007 and placed great emphasis on both incoming raw material testing, process controls and finished product testing. The compliance date for companies was as follows: June 25, 2008 for companies with <500 FTEs (Full Time Employees); June 25, 2009 for companies between <20 - <500 FTEs; June 25, 2010 for companies with <20 FTEs. Based on the number of FTEs, NOW Foods was required to be in full compliance with the GMPs on June 25, 2009.

    Few if any companies were doing finished product testing before the GMPs were published. NOW Foods was testing many of finished products prior to the new Rule. Finished product testing presents some very unique challenges. The complex mixture of ingredients makes finished product testing for many multi-component products extremely difficult. NOW Foods has been working on developing these methods since 2007. Now Foods is way ahead of the game on the number of individual ingredients that can be analyzed in multi-component products. We have 6 method development scientists (including 2 Ph. D scientists) working on these issues and we are adding new methods weekly.

  • NOW Foods is in full compliance with the FDA GMPs and in many areas exceed the requirements of the set forth by the FDA.
  • FDA has inspected approximately 300 manufacturers and is finding that up to 70% of companies in the dietary supplement industry are not in compliance with major provisions of the GMPs. FDA has taken official action in approximately 30% of cases. NOW Foods was inspected by the FDA in 2009 and found to be in compliance.
  • Now Foods does more raw material and finished product testing than most, if not all of the industry. We consistently reject materials and products that do not meet label claim. This is rare in much of the industry.

Now Foods Quality Brand

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What Makes Curamed such a good Pain Remedy?
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Date: October 24, 2011 08:24 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Makes Curamed such a good Pain Remedy?

Curamed And Pain (Inflammation)

Curamed is an herbal supplement primarily used as a pain relief treatment. This product is a combination of many herbs which has anti - inflammatory properties. In addition, this supplement which is a blend of many herbs is also useful in enhancing the defense mechanism of the body against harmful microorganisms and illnesses. And not to mention, Curamed also contains powerful antioxidants to help protect the body from free radical damage.

Many users have reported that Curamed is effective as a pain remedy. Clinically, Curamed is approximately equal to 4,000 milligrams of curcumin and 85,000 milligrams of turmeric. Turmeric is a pepper - like herb which has a bitter taste but mild aroma. This herb is commonly used since the ancient times as a home remedy for pain. The mechanism of action of this herb is said to be because of its ability to reduce inflammation thus reducing swelling and pain sensation. Clinical studies showed that the substance in turmeric is called curcumin. This is the chemical substance in the herb which has a strong anti – inflammatory property. It can even relieve swelling and pain during osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis attacks. The anti –inflammatory effect of curcumin has been compared to that of the common and effective anti -inflammatory drugs such as hydrocortisone and phenylbutazone. The good thing is that though they may have similar actions, curcumin does not have the toxic effects associated with those drugs such as ulcer formation, leucopenia and intestinal bleeding.

Curamed supplement contains proprietary complex which can provide an enhanced bioavailability and constant retention time inside the body. It is formulated using a distinctive and patented process so that it can deliver the anti – inflammatory ingredient curcumin to the body 1000%. The patented process also allows the chemicals to be inside the body for about 8 to 12 hours. Curamed is clinically studied and proven with the help of intensive research. In addition, Curamed has also been found to be an effective liver detoxifier and protectant.

Other ingredients containing the Curamed supplement include triglycerides, glycerin phosphatidylcholine lecithin, purified water and beeswax. It contains only natural ingredients and has no sugar therefore it is safe for diabetic patients and those who are under weight loss programs. It also contains no salt and gluten making it safe for cardiovascular disease and Celiac disease patients, respectively. Each product container contains 30, 60 or 120 750 milligram – soft gel. It is made available in health food stores, drug stores and even Online. Make sure to check labels before purchasing since there are many imitations and fraud.

Recommended dosage depends on the individual’s age, gender, pain threshold, health condition and other related factors. The recommended dosage is usually one to two soft gels everyday. Give Curamed a try and feel the difference!

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Is Sulfite Sensitivity And Vertigo Linked?
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Date: October 17, 2011 03:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Sulfite Sensitivity And Vertigo Linked?

Sulfites are chemical compounds which occur naturally in several animal and plant products. These chemicals are sulfur - based which is commonly used as food enhancer or preservative. Sulfites can effectively prolong the shelf life of food and also prevent discoloration of food. Foods which may contain sulfite include baked products, canned goods, junk foods, vegetable juices, fruit juices, apple cider, some teas and other processed food items. Sulfite - containing ingredients may include sulfur dioxide, potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite and sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, or sodium sulfite.

Allergic reaction to sulfite is not that rare. In fact, the Food and Drug Authority have established "1 out of 100 people" prevalence rate that is hypersensitive to sulfite and its products. Any person may develop allergic reaction to sulfites any time of his/her life. Studies revealed that the cause of such hypersensitivity is still unknown. More studies are still ongoing. Initial results have stated that the allergic effects can be mild or life – threatening. In late 1980's, the FDA released a memorandum on prohibiting the use of sulfite on fruits and vegetables that are commonly eaten fresh and raw such as lettuce, apples, guavas and the like. Regulations are also released for manufacturers to put labels on sulfite – containing processed food items. Sulfites also occur naturally among wines and beers.

One theory revealed that sulfite allergic reaction may be caused by a significant insufficient amount of the enzyme necessary for the breakdown and elimination of such compound known as sulfite oxidase. This enzyme works hand in hand with the element molybdenum which acts as a cofactor. Nonetheless, asthma, nasal and sinus congestion, rhinitis, postnasal drip, headache and bronchospasm may also be experienced by the individual as an effect of sulfite consumption. In addition, vertigo may also be a manifestation of sulfite hypersensitivity.

Studies have found that the allergic reaction brought about by the compound sulfite can significantly lower blood pressure thus resulting to decreased cardiac output which can eventually lead to insufficient tissue perfusion. Thus, dizziness is experienced or even loss of consciousness. Vertigo or dizziness is a kind of feeling in which your surroundings seem to be moving around even though there is no actual movement. In cases of severe vertigo, the person may experience nausea and vomiting. This will greatly affect your daily functioning since the person with vertigo may have difficulty walking or even standing on his/her own. This will significantly result to loss of balance and increase the risk of fall.

There is no direct treatment of sulfite sensitivity. However, the symptoms can be alleviated in a palliative manner. The one and only way to prevent the occurrence of allergic reaction is to avoid food products with sulfites or food items which are likely to have sulfite content. Therefore, if you have sulfite allergy, you must be vigilant on what you eat. Carefully check labels of processed and preserved foods and when eating out, politely as the waiter or chef if the food you like contains sulfite or ingredients which contain such chemical compound.

Foods to avoid:

Alcoholic beverages, Baked goods (pastries), Beverages fruit based, Condiments, Relishes, Confections, Frostings, Modified Dairy Products, Drugs, Fish, shell fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, gelatin, puddings, grains, jams, jellies, nuts, plant proteins, snack foods, soups and soup mixes, sweet sauce, and instant teas. To name a few. Look online to view a more details list of foods to avoid.

This practically eliminates most of our favored junk foods we love to eat. Avoiding these foods may be hard but it is a healthier choice.

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What can you get from Too Much Fiber?
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Date: October 11, 2011 12:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What can you get from Too Much Fiber?

Dietary fibers are plant food particles which cannot be digested and absorbed by the body. Fiber only adds roughage or bulk to the stool making it easier to pass out. It cannot be broken down into simpler compounds then absorbed by the body for cellular consumption. Therefore, dietary fiber is generally intact inside and outside the body. However, despite this fact, certain fiber may be dissolved in certain kinds of solvent such as water.

Fiber is categorized into two, insoluble and soluble fiber. The former is a fiber which does not dissolve in water while the latter is a fiber which dissolves in water. Insoluble fiber significantly promotes the movement of digestive contents by increasing its bulk. This normal intestinal peristalsis then promotes regular bowel movement, thereby, lowering the risk of constipation or irregular bowel movement. Great sources of this kind of fiber include whole wheat flour, wheat bran, nuts and leafy vegetables. On the other hand, soluble fiber dissolves in water but is not absorbed by the body. After being dissolved, the fiber forms into a gel – like substance which alters the absorption of cholesterol and excess sugar thus regulating the blood levels of cholesterol and glucose. Popular sources of soluble fiber include oats, beans, apples, carrots, oranges and barley.

There are many great sources of dietary fiber. However, there are misconceptions on what fruit or vegetable contains rich amount of fiber. Among the commonly mistaken food items are lettuce, tomatoes and celery in the forms of fresh salads. Chemically, these fruit and vegetable contains little amount of fiber only. Another mistaken belief is that a food may be high in dietary fiber just because of its tag which states wheat, multi – grain, natural and enriched. Like for example, oat – bran doughnuts, cookies and grain chips are commonly low in oat bran fiber but instead high in fat and sugar. Therefore, be careful of commercial labels.

Great sources of dietary fiber mainly include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts and legumes. Dietary fiber is important to the body because it can significantly normalize the individual’s bowel movement. Aside from such primary purpose, fiber can also greatly help in lowering the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Indeed, fiber is beneficial and important to the body. However, many questions have come out whether consuming more fiber can be good or bad to the body.

Certain clinical studies have revealed that consuming greater than 35 grams of fiber everyday can significantly influence the digestion and absorption of several vitamins and minerals. This may be technically valid. However, that certain amount of fiber is rarely eaten since most people eat only a small amount of dietary fiber. Therefore, this is not a significant threat to the health of an individual. The benefits of dietary fiber far outweigh the little possibility of adversely altering nutrient absorption and assimilation.

Also, rarely in certain individuals, consumption of more than 50 grams per day of fiber may cause intestinal obstruction. However, this chance is only very little since in most individuals this amount of fiber can improve instead bargain the health of the intestines.

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Can I Use Senna Leaves As A Laxative Daily?
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Date: September 27, 2011 12:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Can I Use Senna Leaves As A Laxative Daily?

What Are Senna Leaves Good For?

Senna is a plant which belongs to the family of flowering plants known as Fabaceae. This plant can be abundantly found in tropical regions. This plant is considered to be a shrub. However, some seemingly looks like an herb or a small tree. Senna is one of the most commonly used herbal laxatives. Other names of Senna are Cassia Senna, Tinnevelly Senna, India Senna, Alexandrian Senna, and Khartoum Senna.

The active ingredients of Senna are called Anthraquinone and glycosides. As a laxative, the active chemical in Senna acts primarily on the large intestine, therefore, this herb has a promising effect in relieving constipation. Clinical studies have also reported that Senna can enhance peristaltic movement of the intestines. This is possible because of its irritating effect on the mucosal lining of the intestines.

To be specific, Senna is an effective laxative. It is categorized as a bowel stimulant or irritant. This type of laxative acts primarily on the mucosa of the intestines and stimulates the nerve plexus to influence water and nutrient absorption as well as reabsorption. This alteration will then lead to the stimulation of peristaltic activity of the bowel. Thus, digestive tract movement is increased and stool elimination is induced. However, this may not be safe under certain circumstances. For this reason, stimulant laxatives must be used cautiously and employed for a short period of time only. As a result, Senna can also be employed as one of the weight loss herbal agents.

Moreover, the leaf of Senna plant consists of essential oils which can potentially destroy harmful microorganisms that can cause skin irritations such as rashes, blisters and acne. In the traditional medicine, Senna leaves are prepared in the form of paste which is then applied on skin to treat ringworms and other skin infections.

In addition, another health benefit of Senna is its potent antioxidant property. According to chemical studies, Senna herb contains high amount of antioxidants. Antioxidants are important to the body because they help prevent diseases by way of eliminating harmful toxins from the body. One of these harmful chemicals is called free radicals. These kinds of substances occur naturally in the body as an end – product of biological reactions. Free radicals can cause interruption on cellular division by altering replication of DNA. Aside from that, it can also cause damage to healthy cells of the body, thus promoting illnesses and diseases.

With the several health benefits of Senna, it must not be employed as a substitute to prescribed medications. This herb is available in supplements. You can purchase this product in many health and drug stores or even Online. However, it must not be abused. More importantly, medical consultation must be done first so that adverse effects and untoward drug interactions will be avoided. Use Senna herbal supplement as labeled or prescribed. Like any other laxative, do not use this in large amount and for a longer period of time. This may cause dependence in which you cannot have a bowel movement without the use of such supplement or laxative.

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Why is It so Important to Give Your Child a Multiple Vitamin Mineral Supplement
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Date: March 11, 2011 11:42 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Why is It so Important to Give Your Child a Multiple Vitamin Mineral Supplement

Giving a multiple vitamin and mineral supplement to your child is tantamount to protecting him or her from the unknown dangers of malnutrition. It is a fact that children are picky eaters. Besides, not all food that you put on the table provides all the nutrients that they need. Experts remain divided over the need to give children daily multivitamins, but it is a common belief that doing so is just the prudent choice to make as parents. Does it make any difference? Yes, it does. Research has pointed to the positive effects of vitamin supplementation, and it has been cited a lot of times that the bioavailability of these supplements is not bad at all. This means supplementation does contribute to the well-being of your child.

Ensures to Meet Nutrient Needs

It is not a myth that our diet does not contain all the nutrients that we need. More often than not we are not getting the daily value for all vitamins and minerals as most of us are not able to monitor our eating habits. Also, we don’t have control over how sources of these nutrients change as they undergo the process of heating foods and other cooking preparations. With children being so picky, it is not surprising that they are susceptible to malnutrition. On the other hand, supplementation has been supported by decades-old research to meet the nutrient needs of individuals, including children. If you decide on giving your child multiple vitamin and mineral supplement, do check the label to make sure it says it contains 100 per cent of the recommended dietary intake of all nutrients.

Affects Growth and Development

A number of nutritional supplements available today have been proven to be of utmost help to the reversal of many medical signs and alleviation of diseases. Some of them have been associated with having a positive effect on the chemical reactions within the human body, and multiple vitamins and mineral supplements belong to this category. There is an ever-growing body of literature devoted to the interactions of exogenous compounds within the human body. Research on multivitamins in particular is among the most advanced in pharmacology, with emphasis on how the body effectively digests and absorbs them. Since the availability of vitamins and minerals is important to the physical and mental development of children, modern-day technology focuses on their absorption.

Strengthens Immune Defenses

There is scientific consensus that micronutrients, even trace minerals, boost our immune system. In fact, in individuals who have compromised immune responses, high quantities of vitamins and minerals slow down the progression of opportunistic diseases, as is the case with children with HIV. Children who have strong immune system are known to have levels of micronutrients adequate to ward off common illnesses. The opposite is also true. Multiple vitamin and mineral supplements have long been used to combat the dire effects of malnutrition as deficiencies are almost always reversed with supplementation. That being said, prevention is always better than cure.

Ensure you are getting the daily vitamins and minerals you need to maintain good health with a quality multiple vitamin and mineral.

What is stopping you from taking a multiple today?

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What Does The Ayurvedic Herb Amla Do For The Body?
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Date: February 22, 2011 02:25 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What Does The Ayurvedic Herb Amla Do For The Body?

Alma And Your Health

Amla is an herb famed for its high content of antioxidants, notably vitamin C. The berries, which are utilized as a source of food and in the production of dietary supplement, come from the plant species Phyllanthus emblica, or more commonly identified as Emblica officinalis, but other parts of the plants such as the leaves and bark have also been used in preparations in treatment of various diseases.alma herb

Also known as Indian gooseberry in the vernacular, amla is an important herbal remedy in Ayurvedic medicine, a system of medical practices native to India. It is also extensively used in Unani practices, which cover the countries of the Middle East, largely owing to the influence of earlier Hippocratic medicine on the region.

Scavenges Free Radicals

Amla is touted to be among the fruits that contain exceptionally high concentrations of vitamin C. The berries yield up to 445mg per 100g, which is at least 20 times higher than the ascorbate content of oranges. In addition, the plant produces a unique free cascading antioxidant now called emblicanin, purported to have very strong antioxidant properties, seeking out free radicals and effectively scavenging large numbers by converting into another form of antioxidant after neutralizing the first.

As you might already know, free radicals significantly contribute to the process of aging by producing effects related to oxidation. While the body manufactures endogenous agents that come to its defense, it has long been discovered that free radicals are able to multiply at an exponential rate and cause irreversible damage at the cellular level. This is the reason why supplementation of vitamin C as well as other antioxidants is advocated by the scientific community.

Amla 500mg Lowers Bad Cholesterol

One of the studies concerning amla that have promising preliminary results is its use as a therapeutic remedy for elevated levels of blood cholesterol. There have been reports that the high density of tannins in amla is responsible for its effects on the production of low-density lipoproteins in the liver. These lipoproteins, notoriously labeled as bad cholesterol, is the main transports of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream and in the process gets attracted to the arterial walls, resulting in buildup of plaques associated to atherosclerosis and related heart diseases.

Inhibits Bone Resorption

Amla has also shown to have an effect on osteoclasts, which is involved in the degeneration of bone and cartilage tissues related to osteoporosis and many cases of arthritis. Intake of amla has been observed to induce death in osteoclasts and alter the gene expression in osteoclasts, thereby reducing bone resorption. That being said, it prevents further damages to bone and joints in patients of arthritis and osteoporosis.

There have been many scientific researches concerning the age-old applications of amla in many common ailments, such as fever, cough and colds, and constipation, age-related diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, and even enhancing the memory. Most of these studies are limited to India and has largely drawn on anecdotal evidence of the local communities.

If you want to give your body a health boost, try the Ayurvedic herb Alma today!

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How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Help With Heart Health?
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Date: February 21, 2011 02:37 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How does Acetyl-L-Carnitine Help With Heart Health?

Acetyl L Carnitine And Heart Health

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is a form of the chemical compound carnitine, which is active in the human body as the amino acid L-carnitine. It is an organic substance that is naturally occurring in mammals and many other animals, and it is released from the liver and kidneys to every tissue in the body. While our body is capable of manufacturing this amino acid, there are factors involved in its depleting levels at certain times, and thus it is made available as a nutritional supplement. Today it is primarily used as a treatment for heart diseases and other cardiovascular problems.

Helps Break Down Fats

One of the many factors that influence heart tissues is high levels of free fatty acids in the blood. Popular health magazines and the mainstream press have labeled transports of fat-soluble bioactive compounds in the water-based bloodstream as bad cholesterol, but free fatty acids are also to blame for the buildup of fatty debris in the blood vessel linings, resulting in the thickening of walls characteristic of many cases of heart diseases.

The body has a mechanism to utilize these fats more effectively in the presence of Acetyl-L-Carnitine, which is quite active as soon as it enters the cells of any tissue, notably muscle and skeletal tissues. Free fatty acids are formed as a by-product of triglycerides that remained in the blood, but once they pass the cell membranes, they can be a source of energy far more powerful than that produced from glucose. Acetyl-L-Carnitine makes it possible for these fatty molecules to be converted into energy.

Maintains Heart Wellness

Every cell has its own form of storage fuel, and glucose and its metabolites are probably the best known. However, tissues of the heart and the muscles prefer fatty acids. As you might have surmised, tissues found in the heart and those that build the form of our physique, classified as cardiac and skeletal respectively, needs more energy than other tissues of our body. The skeletal muscles are directly involved in daily physical exertion whereas the heart is, of course, in constant movement.

Fatty acids yield adenosine triphosphate, or ATP, the form of energy at the cellular level, which is in general more than two times the energy produced from either carbohydrates or proteins. This is one of the reasons why fatty acids can keep up with the hard work associated with cardiac and skeletal muscle tissues. The absence of energy required for the healthy functioning of the heart leads to cell death and affects the heart’s ability to pump blood as described in cases of heart failure.

Promotes High Bioavailability

Acetyl-L-Carnitine has been touted to be more absorbable and ultimately incorporated in body tissues more effectively than other forms of carnitine. It is a known fact that acetylating organic molecules increases the effectiveness of administered doses, and this remains true with Acetyl-L-Carnitine, the reason why it is widely applied in serious medical conditions concerning the heart.

If you have heart problems, give Acetyl-L-Carnitine a try risk free.

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Taurine - Essential or Non-Essential Amino Acid - You Decide?
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Date: February 17, 2011 10:56 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Taurine - Essential or Non-Essential Amino Acid - You Decide?

Amino Acid Taurine Is Essential For More Than You Think

Taurine is an organic compound with acidic properties, which is synthesized in the pancreas in adults, but an essential amino acid in infants. Many neutraceutical products for infants are fortified with taurine, inasmuch as some newborns do not have the enzymes required to synthesize taurine. Taurine deficiency in adults results from deficiencies in other organic compounds, notably methionine and cysteine, which are its immediate precursors within the body.

Helps in Brain Development

It has long been postulated that taurine plays an important role in the human brain, especially in infants, protecting the nerve cells from possible neonatal damages. Taurine continues to affect the nervous system as we age, acting on gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, and consequently enhances inhibitory synaptic transmissions. In addition, taurine is alleged to stimulate continuous activation of synapses characteristic of long-term potentiation, which memory and learning ability stem from.

Stabilizes Glucose Levels

Taurine is a powerful inhibitor of glycation, a process by which sugar molecules attach themselves to other biomolecules without the aid of enzymes, and thus subsequently impair the functions of these biomolecules. This process may take place inside or outside the body, but the substances that result from this process, which are referred to as advanced glycation end-products or AGEs, contribute to the formation of a number of major disorders in later life such as cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, age-related deafness and blindness, and cancer. Taurine keeps the cells from taking up AGEs from the blood, which is slowly excreted in the urine.

Regulates Adipose Tissues

It has also been observed that dietary taurine influences the metabolic pathways that give rise to the formation of adipose tissues, the fat reserves of the human body. These fat depot appear anywhere in the body, but are commonly tied to the subcutaneous fats, those that we see on the belly, chest, arms, and thighs. Moreover, body fat percentage has been an indicator of obesity, which is central to the use of taurine in regulating adipose tissues.

Influences Lipid Absorption

Taurine is a major component of bile, the fluid produced by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and secreted in the small intestines to aid in the digestion of triglycerides, cholesterol, and other lipids. Also, several studies point to the effect of taurine on the binding of proteins to lipids to form lipoproteins, compounds that have been notoriously labeled as bad cholesterol. Not surprisingly, taurine has been suggested to maintain healthy levels of blood cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Fights Oxidative Stress

Sodas have become a part of our daily diet today, but little did we know that they are risk factors for oxidative stress, the continued peroxidation of cellular structures. Fructose in sodas and other sweetened beverages is the most dangerous of all sugars, inasmuch as it releases by-products called AGEs, which are highly reactive to oxidation. AGEs do not get excreted right away and are instead absorbed by cells, leading to irreversible damages to neuronal and vascular tissues in later life. Intake of taurine removes this problem.

Have you had your Taurine Today?

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Constipated? Herbs can Help With Constipation!
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Date: January 28, 2011 11:58 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Constipated? Herbs can Help With Constipation!

Sometimes feeling constipated can get in the way of our activities. It can easily be prevented, but our day-to-day routine may not allow us to do so, inasmuch as diet and inactivity both contribute to the common incidence of constipation. Its chronicity could damage our productivity apart from the fact that bowel movement characteristic of constipation can be a real pain. Herbal laxatives that alleviate the unwanted sensation of recurring constipation have been available since time immemorial.

Over a tenth of the worldwide population has been afflicted with constipation, and one may experience it at least once in a lifetime. In the US alone it is the most common reason for digestion-related visits to the doctor, accounting for up to 3 per cent of the total pediatric complaints. Chronic constipation is more widespread among women and children, and becomes a more frequent health problem as we age. While it is not a disease in itself, it may be a symptom of another gastrointestinal ailment, and thus knowing its underlying causes helps in doing away with it for good.

Many different factors give rise to primary constipation, the type most prevalent among adults. Symptoms ongoing for over 6 months is in general associated with lifestyle factors such as diet high in protein but essentially devoid of fiber. High consumptions of meat products translate to increased workload for your digestive tract, and countless patients have reported elevated levels of protein in their diets while constipated.

Dietary fiber has been identified as a substance that aid digestion in that it readily changes into watery slurry, resulting in the formation of stools that induce easy defecation. In fact, fiber is directly involved in preventing constipation by promoting the health of the gastrointestinal tract. The absence of fiber in the diet for long periods of time leads to the slow passage of foods in the alimentary canal.

If you are constipated at very short intervals such as to feel irregularity of bowel movement in a week, then you should act on it as soon as possible. Holding off defecation does lead to constipation. Your gut signals your brain when to release the fecal matter, and if you don’t respond to what your body tells you, the fecal matter turns into an impacted mass that may obstruct defecation.

The use of herbal laxatives eases defecation. One of the functions of the colon is to absorb water from waste products, but certain herbs like aloe lax, rhubarb, and senna display osmotic properties, that is, they attract water present in the alimentary canal down to the colon. The resulting watery environment softens the hardened stool trapped in the colon and promotes motility inside the bowels.

Also, herbal laxatives contain chemical compounds that stimulate the intestinal walls to move the fecal matter, resulting in the evacuation of fecal matter. That being said, it is imperative that you read what the label says on over-the-counter laxatives and strictly follow the recommended dosages to avoid undesirable effects that these compounds may bring.

If you want to avoid herbs, a double serving of magnesium could do the trick as well. if you get enough fiber in the diet and still experience constipation, you should increase your water intake. Lack or water is also the reason for constipation. Your alternative is a good herbal laxative.

Remember to never stay on herbal laxatives long term, short term use of not more than 2 weeks to prevent dependency.

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How to detoxify from heavy metal aluminum toxitity
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Date: November 09, 2010 06:04 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How to detoxify from heavy metal aluminum toxitity

nacAlthough aluminum is not a heavy metal, it can be toxic if present in excessive amounts or small amounts if it is deposited in the brain. Many of the symptoms of aluminum toxicity are similar to those of Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis. Aluminum toxicity can often lead to colic, rickets, gastrointestinal disturbances, poor calcium metabolism, extreme nervousness, anemia, headaches, decreased liver and kidney function, forgetfulness, speech disturbances, memory loss, softening of the bones, and weak, aching muscles. Since aluminum is excreted through the kidneys, toxic amounts of aluminum can often impair kidney function.

When aluminum salts accumulate in the brain, seizures and reduced mental function can often result. In order to reach the brain, aluminum must pass the blood-brain barrier, which is an elaborate structure that filters the blood before it reaches the vital organ. Although elemental aluminum does not ordinarily pass through this barrier, certain aluminum compounds, such as aluminum fluoride, will. Many municipal water supplies are treated with aluminum sulfate and fluoride. These two chemicals readily combine with each other in the blood and are poorly excreted in the urine. The absorption of high levels of aluminum and silicon in the intestines can result in the formation of compounds that accumulate in the cerebral cortex and prevent nerve impulses from being carried to and from the brain in the proper manner. This situation can be aggravated by a chronic calcium deficiency.

People who have spent their career in aluminum smelting plants for long periods have been known to experience dizziness, impaired coordination, and a loss of balance and energy. When aluminum accumulates in the brain, the above symptoms are often caused. Perhaps the most alarming thing to note it that there is evidence to suggest that long-term accumulation of aluminum in the brain may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. It has been estimated that an ordinary person ingests about 3 and 10 milligrams of aluminum a day. Aluminum, being the most abundant metallic element in the earth’s crust, is primarily absorbed in the body through the digestive tract, but can also be absorbed through the lungs and skin. Additionally, aluminum can be absorbed by and accumulate in the body tissues. Since aluminum permeates our air, water, and soil, it can be found naturally in varying amounts in almost all food and water. Aluminum is also used to make cookware, cooking utensils, and foil, along with being present in many other everyday products including over-the-counter painkillers, anti-inflammatories, douche preparations, antacids, baking powder, food processing, antiperspirants, toothpaste, dental amalgams, bleached flour, grated cheese, table salt, beer, and municipal water supplies.

The following nutrients are very helpful when dealing with aluminum toxicity: apple pectin, calcium, magnesium, coenzyme A, garlic, kelp, lecithin capsules or granules, l-glutathione, a multivitamin and mineral complex, SAMe, vitamin B complex, N-Acetyl Cysteine, and vitamin E. Additionally, the following herbs are great for blocking damage to the body from toxic heavy metals and radiation when taken regularly: burdock root, Echinacea, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, and fiber. Other recommendations to help prevent aluminum toxicity include maintaining a diet that is high in fiber and includes apple pectin; using only stainless steel, glass, or iron cookware, with stainless steel being the best; and being aware of the products that contain aluminum by reading labels and avoiding those that contain aluminum. Sulfur container foods like N-Acetyl Cysteine can help find up heavy metals and eliminate them from the body. If you suspect you have heavy metal toxicity, consult your health care provider immediately.

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

Agave Nectar Light Certified Organic 17 oz from NOWComments by Craig Gerbore, CEO of Madhava:

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

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

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

Agave's caloric value is comparable to the other sweeteners in the category. Due to its greater sweetness though, less agave is used compared to the others, so agave actually can reduce caloric consumption per serving. This is due to a higher fructose content. The higher content does not mean higher consumption though, due to the smaller portion used. But, it is not the single serving that matters, it is the number of servings which lead to the overconsumption issues which may result in health concerns.Agave Nectar Amber Certified Organic 17 oz from NOW

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

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

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

The Agave Controversy: Exposing the fraudulent article by Rami Nagel

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

And Craig Gerbore, CEO Madhava

The controversy about agave syrup was manufactured by the publication of a single article on the internet, which has been reproduced and adapted for virtually every other article produced on the internet and other media venues. That article, written by Rami Nagel and published on Naturalnews.com, was highly biased and full of inaccuracies, half-truths and misinformation about agave. Since the Naturalnews.com article has been the sole source of nearly all other popular articles in public media, we want to set the record straight with science-based, reliable information to offer a more balanced resource to those interested in learning more about agave syrup. Organic Blue Agave Nectar 16 Liq from FunFresh Foods Who is the author, Rami Nagel?

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

Who is Russ Bianchi?

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

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

Was anyone else interviewed for this article?

Yes. Craig Gerbore, president and owner of Madhava Agave Syrup, was extensively interviewed by the author but no parts of that interview were included in the article. Organic Maple Agave Nectar 16 Liq from FunFresh Foods

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

What is agave nectar?

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

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

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

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

The Process

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sugars

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using Sugars

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

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

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

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

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

Impact of sugar on health and disease

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources for this article:

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

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

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

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

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Oil Skin Treatment
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Date: February 12, 2010 12:31 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Oil Skin Treatment

HA HAIR SKIN and NAILS 60 60 ct from Natures PlusOily 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. ULTRA SKIN PLUS 60 60 ct from Natures Plus

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.

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Lactase Enzymes and Acidophilus
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Date: February 10, 2010 11:16 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Lactase Enzymes and Acidophilus

Lactase 100ct 40mg from SolarayLactose 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.

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Colostrum
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Date: June 18, 2009 10:54 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Colostrum

After going through puberty, our bodies gradually decrease in the production of immune and growth factors that generally combat disease. After losing these vital components, we are much more susceptible to the aging process, which shortens our life expectancy. Colostrum and its other components have the ability to fight off bacterial and viral invaders as well as stimulate tissue repair, which is something that becomes increasingly vulnerable as we age by boosting the immune system. For all of these reasons, it is important for an adult to supplement with colostrum.

Colostrum should be collected during the first 24 hours after birth. Also, a colostrum supplement should be processed in a USDA licensed facility. This insures the consumer that USDA guidelines are being followed. Additionally, consumers should make sure that products labeled Colostrum are actually 100% colostrum, not colostrum or concentrates of milk whey. Lastly, colostrum that is mixed with other supplements or herbs and additives may have a diluted colostrum concentration, which means the benefits you could obtain from this supplement may be compromised.

Even though colostrum has no interactions with drugs, side effects may be experienced from a cleansing or healing crisis, which is a necessary but somewhat inconvenient and adverse result. Fortunately, once the healing crisis is complete, you will feel substantially better and in good terms of health. Mediations may need to be re-evaluated by your medical profession for dose and need.

Although colostrum is generally believed to be very safe for those mothers who are pregnant and nursing, one should probably ask their medical professional prior to taking colostrum or its specific agents while they are pregnant. Just like any other supplement or drug, it is better to be overly safe and check with a healthcare provider before jeopardizing a pregnancy.

Colostrum is recommended specifically for children who have not already received the mother’s breast milk, as breast milk would have already provided the benefits that would be obtained through colostrum supplementation. Those children with flu, colds, bacterial or viral infections, or children who have been on long or short-term antibiotics or other drugs are good candidates for colostrum supplementation. Therefore, colostrum supplementation is safe and may be recommended for these types of children.

Many people wonder if colostrum products can pass on mad cow disease. At this time, no case of mad cow disease has been reported in the United States. With awareness of the disease being so high, it is extremely unlikely that one would contract mad cow disease from a colostrum product.

The overall supplementation of colostrum and other products that contain derivatives of colostrum has been shown to extremely safe. Additionally, it has been shown that colostrum is equally effective, whether it be taken by injection or by mouth. It has also been shown that the long-term administration of colostrum preparation is very safe to the human body. Because infants and the elderly are the two main groups that are especially at risk for infections, many people may wonder just how safe colostrum products are for these two groups of people. Not only is oral administration safe, it is also very effective and easily accepted by both of these groups.

Colostrum is available in capsule of tablet forms at your local or internet health food store. Look for name brands like Kal and Source Naturals to ensure quality and purity of the product you purchase.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Colostrum 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.

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Boswellia Extract
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Date: June 11, 2009 06:16 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Boswellia Extract

The boswellia family of trees are specifically known for their fragrant, gummy sap, which possesses many medicinal uses. Among these, especially, if the use as an anti-inflammatory. It is believed that the frankincense of the bible was actually an extract from the resin of the tree. Boswellia, which is also known as boswellin, has a long history of use in Ayurvedic healing. The resin is called salai guggal and has been used to treat asthma, arthritis, various inflammatory conditions, and to relieve joint pain and pain that results from sports injuries. The resin of the boswellia tree is also though to be helpful for treating back pain as well as some other chronic intestinal disorders.

The boswellia plant is a genus of trees that are known mainly for their fragrant resin. This resin has many pharmacological uses, particularly as anti-inflammatories. There are four main species of boswellia, producing true frankincense. Each type of resin is available in various grades. These grades depend upon the time of harvesting. The resin of the boswellia plant is hand sorted for quality. Anyone who is interested in frankincense is advised to obtain a small sample from each reputable dealer to determine the difference between each resin.

Boswellic acids are the main compounds that are believed to be at the source of boswellia’s anti-inflammatory properties. These acids have the ability to inhibit the enzymes that induce pain and inflammation in the body.

A few studies have been conducted on boswellia’s effect on sports injuries and arthritis. Among these, some have shown that boswellic acids may contain anti-inflammatory benefits that are extremely powerful. These benefits are similar to those found in ibuprofen and aspirin. One study done on rheumatoid arthritis patients found that pain and swelling were reduced after three months of treatment with boswellia. Those who used boswellia occasionally reported mild gastrointestinal distress, like heartburn and nausea, but there were no other reports of serious side-effects.

Boswellia has a long tradition of safe and effective use as a mild anti-inflammatory to alleviate pain and stiffness. It is also used to enhance mobility without serious side effects. However, further research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and effectiveness of this extract. Boswellia seems to be best taken as needed in order to reduce pain and stiffness, as opposed to being taken regularly as a maintenance herb.

The resin of boswellia is used in many herbal formulas because of its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Primarily, this extract is most useful in dealing with arthritis, asthma, inflammatory conditions, joint pain, and sports injuries.

A boswellia standardized extract is recommended by many doctors. When dealing with rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, 150 mg of boswellic acids are taken three times per day. For example, if an extract contains 37.5% boswellic acids, 400 mg of the extract would be taken three times daily. Treatment with boswellia should generally last between eight and twelve weeks. Generally, boswellia is safe when used as directed. Rare side effects include diarrhea, skin rash, and nausea. Any inflammatory joint condition should be closely monitored by a health care professional. To date, there are no well-known drug interactions with boswellia.

Boswellia comes in capsule form at your local or internet health food store. When making a purchase always read the label to ensure that the product is standardized to its active acids to ensure quality and purity and to ensure that the herb when taken regularly will function as intended.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Boswellia 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Natural Sweeteners Vs. Artificial Sweeteners
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Date: April 30, 2009 10:16 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Natural Sweeteners Vs. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are food additives intended to replace the sweetness of sugar without the calorie intake. There are also natural sweeteners that can replace sugar, so which should you choose? Natural sweeteners such as sugar, honey and grape juice are well known, although there are also the less well known, but much more effective, sucanat and stevia.

Sucanat is dried unrefined cane sugar, and unlike refined sugar retains the molasses. Stevia, on the other hand, is a shrub, native to Paraguay, the leaf of which contains a non-sucrose sweetener, 300 times the sweetness of sugar, and which is not absorbed by the body. It is a sweetener pure and simple, with no proven health issues. It is also Japan's most popular sugar substitute.

Artificial sweeteners have been known for many years, the first and best known being benzoic sulfanide, known to you as saccharin. The health risks of saccharin have been the subject of debate for over 100 years and have yet to be resolved. Studies had shown it to cause cancer in rats, and it was placed on a list of known or suspected carcinogens.

It has been banned for use in the USA, but that was lifted by the FDA in 1991, and in 2000 saccharin has no longer required a health warning label. The issue appears to have been resolved by rats metabolizing saccharin in a way not possible in humans. However, many are still suspicious of it, and if you don't trust a food additive then do not voluntarily consume it.

The top two artificial sweeteners in the USA are sucralose and aspartame. Sucralose, discovered in the UK in 1976, is the less emotive of the two, and is chemically the chlorocarbon trichlorogalactosucrose, produced by chlorination of sucrose and 600 times as sweet. It should be stressed that a chlorocarbon is totally different to a chlorinated hydrocarbon. It is generally considered safe to use, although it is very slow rate of degradation in waste water has raised concerns that concentrations could increase with increasing popularity of the sweetener.

According to' Sweet Deception', the book states sucralose to be discovered during the search for an insecticide, and is produced when sugar is treated with acetic anhydride, hydrogen chloride and trityl chloride among others in the presence of toluene, MIBK and dimethyl formamide among other solvents. Although marketed as coming from a natural source, it is anything but natural.

Aspartame was developed by G.D. Searle, and its approval by the FDA has been a matter of concern for many years. Promoted by Donald Rumsfeld, then CEO of Searle, he "called in his markers" to have the substance approved, which was not one of the more glorious moments in America's history.

It is used in over 6,000 products, most household names, yet was based on "inconclusive and incompetent science" according to detractors. In 1981, on the day of his inauguration, Ronald Regan suspended the powers of the FDA on aspartame, and then a month later appointed a new FDA head, Arthur Hayes, who immediately licensed the substance. Donald Rumsfeld was on President Regan's team.

There is a strong body of evidence that aspartame is toxic to humans, although the official evidence has discredit such studies. Recent evidence that linked aspartame to cancer has been stated as irrelevant to humans. In spite of the concerns, the substance has been approved, not only in the USA but also by the European Union. This might call into question the relevance of studies to humans, but many still believe that commercial considerations are behind these decisions.

In fact, an extensive study carried out by the Italian European Ramazzini Foundation, showed that aspartame can cause a significant increase in cancers and leukemias in rats at well below the doses allowed by the EU or the US. This substance required further study by bodies with no vested interest in the outcome.

Those that believe so point to the stevia situation. This natural sweetener is banned for use as a food additive in the EU, and cannot be sold as sweetener due to the FDA not recognizing it as such. It has also been banned in Hong Kong, even though it is the sweetener of choice in Japan, with no apparent side-effects becoming endemic in that country. The USA might not approve stevia as a sweetener, but it is considering lifting its ban on cyclamate.

Cyclamate was banned by the FDA due to tests on rats indicating a possibly carcinogenic effect, but no more positive than those on aspartame. Cyclamate is permitted in Canada, where saccharin is not, and also in the UK, but not throughout the EU.

It is obvious, then, looking at the various claims and counter-claims, and the conflicting legislation between civilized countries, that the artificial sweetener industry is wrought with uncertainty. In the past, it is almost certain that commercial considerations have come before the health of the nation, and that does not engender confidence.

In fact, the only sane approach to take at this time would be to avoid artificial sweeteners altogether, and stay natural. That is not to claim that natural products are safe to eat - far from it! Many of the most virulent poisons are natural, but the well-used natural sweeteners appear to be safer at this time than any of those artificially manufactured.

There might be objections to this where diabetes is concerned, and Canada, while banning saccharin for normal use, still allows it for use by diabetics. This is the one of the two major bodies that promotes the use of artificial sweeteners: the diabetic lobby and the weight loss lobby.

It is difficult to question the obesity and weight problem that America has while at the same time arguing against the use of artificial sweeteners. However, don't forget that stevia is widely used in Japan with no reported health problems, and stevia is a natural sweetener that is permitted for use as a food additive, and that is not absorbed by the body.

However, there is also a recent 2005 study that has indicated that diet drinks containing artificial sweeteners might fool your body into believing that the sweet taste is promising energy, and when it doesn't materialize, you feel hungry and eat more. This has been supported by animal studies.

These have shown convincingly that the sensation of sweetness induces the production of insulin with resulting hypoglycemia because there is no actual increase in blood sugar. This induces increased food intake. This has been proved with rats, and also proved was the fact that the natural response of eating less at the next meal, after sugary food, was gradually diminished in animals fed non-calorific sweeteners.

The choice is yours, but it would seem advisable to stick to natural sweeteners for the time being, at least until the studies carried out are in concurrence as opposed to offering conflicting results depending upon who is doing the testing.



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Long-Sought Food Labeling Law Underway
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Date: March 19, 2009 04:55 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Long-Sought Food labeling Law Underway

Shoppers will have more information about where their food comes from under a new policy, which started this week. labels on most fresh meats, along with some fruits, vegetables and other foods, will now list where the food originated. In the case of meats, some labels will list where the animal was born, raised and slaughtered.

This is good news to most American that fear they eat foods imported form countries who do not have dumping regulations. Meaning some foods could be grown right next to a land fill that has all kinds of toxins brewing in it. Unhealthy to any who consume these foods.

Commodities covered under COOL must be labeled at retail to indicate its country of origin. For fish and shellfish, the method of production, wild or farm-raised, must be specified. Commodities are excluded from mandatory COOL if the commodity is an ingredient in a processed food item.

Hopefully more manufactures will comply with the new ruling and go beyond the standards to help Americans make a sound choice at the grocery store.



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Cold And Flue Remedies
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Date: March 16, 2009 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cold And Flue Remedies

Echinacea, zinc, vitamin C, and garlic are all the most well-known and respected supplements concerning the maintenance and strengthening of the immune system. Echinacea contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, caffeic acid derivatives, essential oils, polyacetylenes, and alkylamides, which contribute to the herb’s therapeutic benefits. These constituents are responsible for a variety of immuno-stimulatory, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties.

Echinacea possesses the ability to enhance the movement of white blood cells into infected areas of the body. Echinacea also affects many of the immune system’s cells that are responsible for slowing viral and bacterial infection. Additionally, this herb enhances the performance of macrophages in the immune system, which are responsible for engulfing foreign material like bacteria, viruses, and dead cellular matter. Echinacea also has the ability to kill viruses that indirectly encourage the production and release of interferon, which is a substance that potentially blocks the transcription of viral RNA.

Zinc has been recognized for an extended amount of time as a protection against colds. It is well known that zinc deficiencies are linked to immune system-related disorders as well as the increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. Zinc throat lozenges have become very popular in treating colds over the last few years. One recent study found that zinc is not only beneficial to the immune system, but also necessary for its optimal function.

Vitamin C is one of the most well-known nutrients for battling the effects of colds and flu. Its benefits have been known for years, with a large body of research indicating its effectiveness in reducing the severity and duration of colds an flu. Additionally, vitamin C acts as an immunostimulant by enhancing white blood cell production, increasing interferon levels and antibody responses, promotes secretion of thymic hormones, and improves connective tissue.

There is conflicting information on how much vitamin C one should take, but most experts agree that the FDA’s recommended dietary intake is not sufficient. Many doctors suggest taking large doses, as much as 10,000 mg when suffering from a cold or flu. One of the great things about vitamin C is that it can be found abundantly in many fruits and vegetables. The best food sources include broccoli, sweet peppers, collards, cabbage, spinach, kale, parsley, melons, potatoes, tangerines, and Brussels sprouts.

Garlic, which is extremely well known as a culinary additive, is actually one of the most commonly used medicinal herbs as it is found throughout the world and employed for various therapeutic purposes for thousands of years. It is common in Chinese herbal medicine and has recently received a great deal of attention in the U.S. and other Western countries. Recent research has found that garlic possesses powerful capabilities relating the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infection. Garlic possesses antiviral and antibacterial capabilities and has been shown repeatedly to simulate and improve performance by the body’s immune systems. Studies on garlic have shown that it has the ability to actually kill flu and cold viruses. Garlic also can protect the body from invading virus cells by enhancing the body’s immune functions.

Additional herbs and natural supplements that are useful in fighting cold and flu viruses include goldenseal, pau d’arco, astragalus, licorice, peppermint, and beta carotene. No matter what you choose to do by way of a doctor or natural alternative, supplements such as these discussed have zero side effects if taken as recommended on the bottles label. Natural vitamins and herbs can be found at your local or internet health food store.

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

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Healthy Nails
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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.

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Mumps
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Date: February 27, 2009 02:34 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Mumps

Mumps, a common viral illness mostly occurring during childhood, is caused by a type of virus that is known as a paramyxovirus that infects the parotid glands, which are the salivary glands that are located at the jaw angles below the ears. Symptoms include swelling of one or both glands plus headache, fever, chills, decreased appetite, sore throat, and pain when swallowing or chewing, especially when swallowing acidic substances such as citrus juices. A lot of times, one of the parotid glands will swell before the other, and as swelling in one gland subsides, the other begins to swell. Mumps travels from person to person by means of infected droplets of saliva or direct contact with contaminated materials. This illness can be contracted through sneezing, coughing, kissing, talking, breathing, drinking out of the same glass as an infected person, and sharing utensils. This virus has an incubation period that can vary from fourteen to twenty-four days, with the average period being about eighteen days. A person with mumps is contagious any time from forty-eight hours before the onset of symptoms to six days after the symptoms have started. Although this attack is not as contagious as measles or chickenpox, it is similar in that one attack usually gives lifetime immunity.

Mumps occurs most commonly in those children that range between the ages of three and ten. However, it can occur through teenage years and, rarely, in adulthood. If this illness does occur after puberty, the ovaries or testes may become involved and sterility may result. If the testicles are affected, they become swollen and painful, while abdominal pain will result if the ovaries or pancreas is affected. Other organs that can be affected by mumps in rare or severe cases include the brain, pancreas, and kidneys. All of these can potentially cause serious complications.

The following bacteria are beneficial in dealing with mumps. 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 doses should be used, while one-quarter of the amount should be used for children under the age of six. Bifidobacterium bifidus should be taken as directed on the label to provide friendly bacteria, which contains antibiotic substances that inhibit pathogenic organisms. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids helps to destroy the virus and eliminate toxins if taken in dosages of 500 mg every 2 hours until improvement is noted.

One 15 mg zinc lozenge should be taken every 4 to 6 hours to aid healing. Acidophilus should be taken as directed on the label, as it contains antibiotic substances that inhibit pathogenic organisms. A free-form amino acid complex should be taken as directed on the label, as it is important for tissue repair and healing. 50,000 IU of vitamin A with mixed carotenoids should be taken daily, as it potentates immune function. Kelp, which contains essential minerals, iodine, and vitamins, should be taken in dosages of 1,000-1,500 mg daily. Additionally, the following herbs are beneficial in dealing with mumps: catnip, chamomile, dandelion, Echinacea, elderflower, lobelia, mullein, peppermint tea, slippery elm bark, barley, and yarrow.

Vitamin supplements are great to help fight off colds, but with the mumps always consult your doctor, if left untreated further life threatening complications may occur which is not desirable by anybody. Vitamin and Herbs are available at your local or internet health food store.



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Natural Toothpastes
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Date: February 18, 2009 03:15 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Natural Toothpastes

Most of the time, halitosis is caused by poor dental hygiene. However, there may be other factors involved such as gum disease, tooth decay, heavy metal buildup, infection of the respiratory tract, improper diet, constipation, smoking, fever, diabetes, foreign bacteria in the mouth, indigestion, inadequate protein digestion, liver or kidney malfunction, postnasal drip, stress, and too much unfriendly bacteria in the colon.

Additionally, halitosis can be caused by a buildup of toxins in the gastrointestinal tract, salivary gland disorder, chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, or diabetes. It is also true that dieting, alcohol abuse, or fasting can also cause bad breath. “Morning breath” is the product of dehydration and the reduction in the amount of saliva. This saliva is necessary for washing away bacteria in the mouth.

Dieters and people who are fasting may often experience bad breath. This is because the lack of food causes the body to break down stored fat and protein for fuel. The metabolic wastes that are a result of this process have an unpleasant odor as they are exhaled from the lungs.

The following nutrients are beneficial for dealing with and preventing bad breath. One tablespoon of chlorophyll can be taken in juice twice daily, as green drinks are one of the best ways to combat bad breath. 2,000 to 6,000 mg of vitamin C with bioflavonoids should be taken daily. Vitamin C is important in healing mouth and gum disease and preventing bleeding gums. This nutrient also rids the body of excess mucus and toxins that cause bad breath. Acidophilus should be taken as directed on the label. It is needed to replenish the friendly bacteria in the colon. Insufficient friendly bacteria and an overabundance of harmful bacteria can often cause bad breath.

Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic by destroying foreign bacteria in both the mouth and the colon. It is recommended that you take 2 capsules of the odorless form 4 times daily, with meals and at bedtime. 30 mg of zinc should be taken three times daily as it has an antibacterial effect and neutralizes sulfur compounds. These sulfur compounds are a common cause of mouth odor. Bee propolis should be taken as directed on the label. It is helpful in healing the gums, aiding control of infection in the body, and also has an antibacterial effect. 15,000 IU of vitamin A should be taken daily; it is needed for control of infection and also in healing of the mouth. Additionally, 100 mg of vitamin B complex is needed for proper digestion.

The following herbs are also beneficial for dealing with halitosis. Alfalfa supplies chlorophyll, which cleanses the bloodstream and colon, where bad breath often begins. Gum disease, which is a major factor of bad breath, can be treated with goldenseal extract. This extract can heal the infected parts. Myrrh, peppermint, rosemary, and sage should be used to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth. Chewing a sprig of parsley after meals is an excellent treatment for bad breath. This nutrient is rich in chlorophyll, which happens to be a popular ingredient in breath mints. Other herbs that can be beneficial include anise, cloves, and fennel.

Whether you want to take it into your own hands to heal your gums from disease, a gum disease can be a sign of a more significant health problem that should be looked at by our health care provider. In either case, vitamins and herbs can be found at your local or internet health food store.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Natural Toothpaste 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.

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Copper Vitamins
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Date: February 13, 2009 10:47 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Copper Vitamins

Copper is an essential trace mineral that can impair the ability of white blood cells to fight infection with even the slightest deficiency. Copper is necessary for the proper absorption of iron in the body. It is found primarily in foods that contain iron. If the body does not get a sufficient amount of copper, hemoglobin production decreases, causing copper-deficiency anemia to potentially result.

There are a variety of enzyme reactions that require copper. Copper is essential as a cross-linking agent for elastin and collagen. It is also a catalyst for protein reactions and is also needed for oxygen transport. Copper is used for the metabolism of essential fatty acids. Copper deficiency can result in a variety of symptoms. Among these symptoms are diarrhea, inefficient utilization of iron and protein, and stunted growth. The development of nerve, bone, and lung tissue can be impaired in babies and the structure of these body parts may also be altered.

Because the body is unable to manufacture copper, it must be obtained through the diet. Too much copper trace mineral produces a condition known as copper toxicity or copper overload. In order for the body to work properly, it is essential that it has a proper balance of copper and zinc. An imbalance can lead to thyroid problems. Additionally, low copper levels can contribute to mental and emotional problems. For example, copper deficiency may be a factor in anorexia nervosa.

Although the FDA has never published a Recommended Daily Allowance for copper, the National Research Council recommends that adults get from 1.5 to 3.0 mg per day, while children obtain 1.5 to 2.5 milligrams and infants less than six months old obtain 0.4 to 0.6 milligrams. For most people, a normal healthy diet will provide the correct amount of copper.

Copper deficiency is most likely to occur in babies who are fed only cow's milk, persons suffering from a malabsoprtion syndrome known as sprue, persons suffering from kidney disease, and those who chronically take mega-doses of zinc. Long-term use of oral contraceptives can upset the balance of copper in the body. This can cause either excessively high or excessively low copper levels. Copper levels can be determined through a blood test, urine samples, and hair analysis. The basis for a nutritional program to balance body chemistry is determining mineral levels and ratios.

The following nutrients are helpful in combating copper deficiency. The dosages recommended are for adults unless otherwise specified. For a child between the ages of twelve and seventeen, the dosage should be reduced to three-quarters the recommended amount, while one-half the recommended amount should be used for a child between six and twelve. A child under the age of six should use one-quarter the recommended amount.

Copper should be taken in dosages of 5 mg daily for a month, and then reduced to 3 mg daily. This helps to restore copper in the body. It is recommended that a copper amino acid chelate is used. 30 mg of zinc should be taken daily, as it is needed to balance with copper. This amount should not be exceeded and a zinc chelate form should be used. Iron should be taken as directed by a physician, as copper deficiency may cause anemia. Be sure to use a chelate form and do not take iron unless anemia is diagnosed. Additionally, a multivitamin and mineral complex should be taken as directed on the label since all nutrients are necessary in balance.

In conclusion, copper is a wonderful mineral that can help one with immunity and much more. Remember that copper should only be taken in low dosages of 1 to 3 milligrams per day. Copper can be found at your local or internet health food store.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Copper 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.



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Hoodia
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Date: January 29, 2009 03:52 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hoodia

Some companies are already manufacturing a blend of cheaper ingredients with hoodia, and claiming it is better than hoodia alone. This means that you might find a product that contains 1,000 mg of total ingredients, but it could contain as little as 50 mg of hoodia. As a general rule, the other ingredients are only included to make the product cheaper. All hoodia supplies are the same strength worldwide. The stems of the plant are picked, dried, and milled, leaving a powder about 5 percent of the original weight, which is why some quote it as a 20:1 extract. However, don’t be misled. Despite what a label may lead you to believe, you’re only getting 50 mg of hoodia.

The minimum dosage that is necessary to have a usable effect is about 800 to 1,200 mg of actual hoodia each day. This amount will help to reduce your appetite so that you can eat smaller meals and, consequently, lose weight. If you think you’d like to try hoodia, look for a product that has been naturally extracted and grown or ethically wild crafted without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or preservatives, preferably in a vegetarian capsule.

Make sure that the product you use is a true standardized full-spectrum herbal supplement that does not include any fillers, binders, or common allergens. Also, keep in mind that even though safety reports to date are encouraging, no long-term safety studies have been performed. Additionally, there is no data on the possible interactions hoodia may have with other drugs.

Hoodia is a non-stimulating herb, which makes it more suitable for a large range of people. Herbal stimulants such as guarana or kola nut, which both contain caffeine, can cause a large range of side effects such elevated heart rate and blood pressure, nervousness, and sleeplessness. P57, the active ingredient in hoodia, has no sedative effects.

Losing weight and maintaining an ideal weight also requires changing attitude and lifestyle. If your main goal is to quickly lose weight so you can fit into your bathing suit, you may be able to achieve that lighter weight, but without exercise, you’re still going to look flabby. Even though the subjects in the hoodia clinical study did not exercise, you should, as exercise plays an important role in losing and managing weight along with overall health.

Weight loss should be about your overall health. Without the proper eating habits, especially nutrition and exercise, you won’t be able to accomplish much. It’s true that less weight puts less stress on your cardiovascular system, but you need to exercise to strengthen your heart muscles. Proper nutrition and exercise also helps to prevent many other health problems, which includes fighting off many digestive ailments.

If you’re considering trying hoodia for weight loss, experts suggest that you supplement with 800 to 1,200 mg a day, divided into two doses and taken with water. For best results, follow the manufacturer’s dosage instructions since products may vary. You should also follow a reduced-calorie diet of natural, unprocessed foods. Even though you can probably lose weight on a diet like this without supplementing with hoodia, adding hoodia may help you to stick to your diet better.

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Dangers Of Over The Counter Drugs
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Date: October 16, 2008 03:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Dangers Of Over The Counter Drugs

Parents have recently been hit with shocking information about the potential dangers to their children. First it was lead contamination that came from toys that were manufactured by some of our most trusted companies. Next, it was super antibiotic resistant bugs that may lurk in day care centers and schools. The latest information is of greatest concern. Every study performed in the recent years has found that children’s cough and cold remedies are ineffective and may, in fact, be potentially dangerous. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommended against the use of multi-symptom, over-the-counter, cold medicines in children under the age of three unless the parents are advised by a physician.

Many parents have depended on these medicines for years to help with runny noses, coughs, and sleep disruptions. However, our kids are not the first generation to suffer from frequent respiratory troubles. Herbal and dietary remedies have been the first line of defense for centuries, with Elderberry being rich in flavonoids, essential oils, vitamin C and organic acids. It reduces mucous secretions, helps ease breathing, and soothes an irritated nose and throat.

If your child frequently deals with a runny nose, earache, and sinus infection, he or she may have hidden food intolerances. One doctor states that there are various ways that you can recognize hidden childhood allergies. A classic symptom is the “allergic salute”, which the child demonstrates when he is constantly rubbing his or her hand across the end of a runny nose.

Food allergies are difficult to determine with standard allergy testing, but by avoiding common allergic provoking foods like dairy, wheat, corn, and tree nuts, often brings relief to the child. Changing the family diet is the best way to eliminate offending foods. Replace all forms of sugar and other refined carbohydrates, as they slow down bowel transit time and increase exposure to toxic bowel contents. Natural sweeteners, which can be found in most health food stores, can be used instead. Since dairy products top the list of provoking foods, they should be replaced as much as possible with other beverages. Inspect labels carefully to determine if they contain casein, which is a milk protein that often causes problems. A liquid calcium supplement is a good idea to give your children if they are not receiving dairy products.

Allergic children are often prone to digestive problems, which is a condition referred to as intestinal dysbiosis. Antibiotic use disturbs the microflora in the gut by killing helpful bacteria. Psychological stress can also impact microflora, which poses the question of whether or not stress is having a negative impact on our children’s health. Studies in which some children were placed in a stress relieving program showed that treated groups of children increased their levels of secretary IgA, which gives them a greater ability to resist colds.

Allergic children also have disturbed bowel function, making them constipated, frequently pass gas, be bloated, and have foul smelling hard stools. A low fiber diet is one cause of constipation, but an imbalance in microflora in the gut is another reason, which causes toxins to enter circulation. Supplementing with Bifidobacteria and other helpful probiotics can restore normal gut function, alleviate allergic symptoms, restore immune competence, and reduce allied bowel problems. Supplementing with fiber can also support proper elimination of toxins in children as well as adults. Acidophilus, fiber, and herbal cold aids can be found at your local health food store.

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Herbs And Herbal Remedies Are Safe Foods
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Date: September 30, 2008 10:57 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Herbs And Herbal Remedies Are Safe Foods

A lot of people are just learning about herbs and have a lot of fear that if you tell someone about an herb they might overdose. No body wants to accidently hurt someone, but we must remember that herbs are food. So the real question is can we overdose with food and what is that in relation to a chemical overdose. Everyone should read the label on anything they put into their mouths so that they are responsible for their bodies. If we put something into our body, we are responsible for whatever action takes place.

A chemical drug overdose is extremely dangerous. There are warnings on bottles to keep them away from children and elderly people. Overdosing also includes the problem of mixing drugs, which causes serious problems. One should be sure to ask their pharmacist about the bad side affects of any drug he or she takes. The overdose of chemicals or drugs into the human body is undoubtedly dangerous and potentially fatal.

An overdose of herbs or food often causes an allergic reaction to that specific food or herb. From an herb standpoint, there are occasionally people who are allergic to a specific herb, which is why it is recommended that one starts on any herb at a very low dosage and then slowly builds up to the needed level. An overdose on herbs does not put the body into a life threatening situation. Rather, the body normalizes itself because it is simply dealing with a food.

The other situation that an overdose of herbs can cause is diarrhea, which is not a health problem unless it occurs over several days. Anyone who begins an herbal program and gets diarrhea should consult an herbalist, who will reduce the intake of those herbs that have a cleansing action on the body or colon. One can see that the overdose of an herb as compared to the overdose of chemicals is at opposite ends of the spectrum, with one being naturally cleansing and the being life threatening.

It is hoped that this knowledge motivates all of us to think of herbs as foods and not medicines. If we’re going to keep herbs out of the hands of drug companies, the fact that herbs are food must be stressed. Recent herb companies and long standing herbalists have upsettingly announced the fact that they are taking herbs to the doctors and the scientific world, taking them from the housewife who knows and uses them best.

Food or herbs can be toxic or dangerous, but not as much so as man-made chemicals. We must have the wisdom to choose foods or herbs that are not poisonous. Herbs and foods were created by nature to be safe for all people. Where as man-made chemicals are dangerous to all. One must use moderation in all things, as an overdose of herbs causes an allergic reaction that could be avoided with a little wisdom. Anyone eating any herb for the first time should begin at a low dosage and watch the bodily reaction for a couple of days. If not heavy cleansing of allergic reaction is felt, than more can be eaten.



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Brown Rice Is A Whole Grain
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Date: August 06, 2008 04:11 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Brown Rice Is A Whole Grain

Rice is the most popular grain around the world, which makes brown rice a great choice for increasing whole-grain intake. Brown rice, a one hundred percent whole-grain food, has joined the recognized ranks of healthful whole grains approved to bear the whole-grain health claim by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Though some nutrients are added back in when white flour is "enriched," studies show that whole grain foods might be useful in reducing risk of heart disease, diabetes and ADHD in children. "Companies that use the phrase ‘whole grain’ absolutely has the legal responsibility under state consumer protection laws to disclose exactly how much whole grain is contained in their products. Kraft uses phrases like "good source of whole grain" or "excellent source of whole grain" on labels even if the product is mostly refined white flour. General Mills, to its credit, according to CSPI, recently began transitioning away from those types of source claims in favor of indicating the amount of whole grains in grams.

Brown rice contains beneficial phytonutrients including antioxidants, anthocyanins, phytosterols, tocopherols, oryzanol and many other potentially protective substances that have been found to help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease, diabetes and may aid in weight management as well as supply the needed nutrients children need to fight off ADHD. Brown rice also contains 15 vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins, selenium, potassium, iron, magnesium, and 2 grams of fiber per one half cup of cooked rice.

The health claims of brown rice are not based on the fiber content but on the nutrient and phytonutrient content of the whole grain. Brown rice has a higher nutrient content than white refined rice and all those looking to improve health and wellness should consider switching to the brown variety.

Statistics say that consumers who know products contain more whole grains and the quantities per serving of whole grains are more likely to purchase those products. Eighty percent of Americans know that whole grains are healthier for them then refined flower products. Also, eighty percent of Americans know that whole grains can protect against cardiovascular disease but less than seventy percent didn’t know whole grains protected against cancer.

Most of the American population knows that brown rice is a whole grain, but they also couldn’t distinguish the difference between brand and bread that are labeled as simply wheat which is actually a term for whole grain wheat. Over eighty percent of the American population would eat more whole grain foods if they knew the foods contained it.

In summary, the US Food and Drug Administration has said that brown rice can now carry whole grain health claims such as brown rice may reduce the risk of heart disease and some cancers. Brown rice had previously been excluded because its dietary fiber content was considered too low (four grams per cup) but will now be allowed to display a whole grains logo and information pointing out the benefits of consuming whole grains. So my question to you is, “have you had your serving of brown rice today?”

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Denture Bonding Cream
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Date: August 04, 2008 12:56 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Denture Bonding Cream

Denture creams, also referred to as adhesives can be a great tool for extra denture suction, which naturally leads to better denture grip. Secure Denture Bonding Cream is not only great for uppers; it is specially designed for lowers. As new technologies develop, denture creams have been prepared with cellulosic materials, such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, and hydroxypropylcellulose either alone or in combination with ethylene oxide homopolymers, acrylamide homopolymers and copolymers, or maleic anhydride derivatives to improve the adhesion properties of these creams, but there are some things you should be aware of.

Most denture cream is slowly dissolved by your saliva, and studies have shown that it generally passes through your body without any ill side effects. Denture adhesive creams and similar compositions provide the desirable mechanical and aesthetic properties, at a minimum of cost, making these types of products inexpensive and effective for securing the dentures in your mouth. Being water soluble, these fixatives can dissolve, wash out, and result in the dentures slipping and sliding. Most denture creams are water-soluble and can be washed out by eating or drinking which may not be desirable at times.

These creams act as a real adhesive which create a secure, strong, bond between the dentures and the gums. Look for a cream or adhesive that does not dissolve in water. These creams and adhesives are applied to the face of the denture or plate which is particularly adapted to contact and mold itself to the contour of a particular oral surface in the mouth. Multiple applications of the adhesive are not only inconvenient, but are usually impractical if not impossible depending on the cream or adhesive purchased. When the dentures become loose or pull away from the jaw, it will be necessary to apply more than one application of the denture adhesive per day in order to obtain and maintain sufficient adhesion throughout the day.

Zinc is a very common ingredient in many over the counter and FDA approved products. Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell in the body and in foods like red meat, poultry, whole grains and beans and is necessary for the maintenance of good health and nutrition. The potential for absorption of zinc through the gums is minimal but does happen. Zinc denture cream may adversely impact your health and create a copper deficiency in your body if left unchecked. If your mouth absorbs an excess of zinc, this overdose can lead to hypocupremia and neurologic diseases.

Many studies have been performed on zinc over dose and neurological disease. All the studies of denture cream zinc overdose reached the following conclusion: Denture cream containing zinc and chronic excessive use may result in hyopcupremia. Tests for zinc levels in your blood can determine quickly whether you have a zinc overdose in your body. Action should be taken immediately against zinc pPoisoning if you or someone you care about has been experiencing symptoms such as numbness, tingling along nerve pathways and hypersensitivity and you use Poligrip or Fixodent, please consider being examined by your doctor. People who incur permanent damage from zinc poisoning due to use of denture creams may be eligible for compensation for loss, suffering and medical treatments.

In conclusion, good denture cream acts as an inexpensive, though temporary alternative to having your dentures relined. Most creams promise all-day hold however, with out personally testing each cream or adhesive it is likely that one may work for some but not all people. Denture adhesives also come with no warning make sure you read the label and avoid zinc products. However, ill-fitting dentures may impair your health- consult your dentist for periodic examinations and over all oral health.

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Echinacea Purpurea Root
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Date: June 17, 2008 06:38 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Echinacea Purpurea Root

There are nine known species of Echinacea native to the United States and southern Canada. The most commonly used and most potent of them is Echinacea purpurea.

Other common names for Echinacea are purple coneflower, American coneflower and coneflower. The plants contain large heads of flowers that bloom in early to late summer.

In North America, Native Americans used Echinacea more than any other herb for its healing properties. For Europeans and Americans, it was believed to aid in curing Anthrax and snakebites as well as contain antimicrobial properties.

Echinacea is well known for its abilities to boost the immune system and to help fight infections. It is also widely used to prevent infections, colds and the flu. In lesser known medicinal practices, it is used to treat wounds and such skin problems as acne and boils. Some studies have shown that Echinacea has been effective in treating upper respiratory infections.

The whole Echinacea plant is used for treating various indications. Fresh or dried, the plant and roots are used to make teas, extracts, juices or external salves, creams and ointments. As a general rule, the fresh-pressed juice of the Echinacea plant is most effective in treating colds in children. In adults, both the root and herb in combination are most effective.

When taken at the first signs of a cold, Echinacea has been found to reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms. Be aware that Echinacea is not a one-dose fix-it remedy. Begin taking recommended doses at the first signs of a cold. Subsequent doses should be taken regularly, according to the product label, until all symptoms have disappeared.

Unfortunately, many herbal preparations can vary in effectiveness due to a lack of systematic extraction and refining. It is best to research the manufacturers of herbal products to find out how they cultivate and store their herbs. Their methods will cause the chemical compositions to vary greatly. The different parts of the plant that are used vary widely in their chemical makeup as well. One part may be extremely useful as an antimicrobial, while another may stimulate stronger reactions from the immune system. Other factors that may affect the quality of the product you purchase are:

* Species * Plant part * Extraction method * Contamination * Adulteration

Side Effects and Warnings:

When taken orally (by mouth), Echinacea usually does not produce any side effects. In rare cases, some people have experienced allergic reactions and side effects that include:

* Rashes or dermatitis * Pruritus (itching) * An increase in asthma symptoms * Anaphylaxis (life threatening allergic reaction) * Hepatoxicity * Nausea * Dizziness * Dyspnea (difficulty breathing)

All of these symptoms tend to be mild and infrequent. If you suffer from asthma symptoms, you should probably avoid using echinacea. In most cases the most common side effects are gastrointestinal in nature, such as gas or mild cramping. People are much more likely to experience side effects if they are allergic to other plants in the daisy family. These plants include:

* Ragweed * Chrysanthemums * Marigolds * Daisies

Use of Echinacea in children younger than 12 years is not recommended due to lack of sufficient data to support safety. It is also not recommended for use in pregnant or nursing women.

Echinacea should not be used if you have progressive systematic or auto-immune disorders, connective tissue disorders or other diseases that may be related to these. It should not be taken if you are taking immune-suppressants and heap-toxic drugs. It may also interfere with anesthesia.

It is important to communicate with your health care providers. Be sure they are aware of any alternative herbs or other substances you are using and what their purpose is in your daily diet.

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Pain Relief
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Date: June 13, 2008 12:18 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Pain Relief

DL-Phenylalanine has been found to work in conjunction with the body’s natural ability to relieve pain. It helps to lengthen the lifespan of the chemicals in the brain that ease pain. It is especially effective in relieving pain from arthritis and aching muscles.

Some chronic pain can be treated with DL-phenylalanine through the stimulation of nerve pathways in the brain that control pain. Enhanced pain relief has been discovered when D-phenylalanine is used in conjunction with prescribed pain killers. This manufactured form of phenylalanine is used to block an enzyme in the nervous system that increases pain signals. The interruption of pain signals allows the healing mechanisms of the body to begin working faster.

DL-Phenylalanine is a chemical combination of half L-phenylalanine and half D-phenylalanine. L-Phenylalanine is the natural form of phenylalanine found in proteins all over the body. It is found in foods like beef, poultry, pork, fish, eggs, milk, yogurt, cheese, nuts, seeds and certain soy products. D-Phenylalanine is a synthesized form of the chemical, which means it is produced in a laboratory.

Phenylalanine as an Amino Acid:

Amino acids perform various major functions in the body. They assist in fulfilling the body’s basic needs from minerals and vitamins. They can act as neurotransmitters, which carry signals to and from the brain. They also aid in other parts of the body for communication between nerve cells.

Phenylalanine is one of the essential amino acids found in protein. This means it is required for human health, but cannot be manufactured by the human body. Therefore it has to be supplied through food consumption. It can also be found and taken in the form of powder, capsule, tablet or a topical cream. In the body, phenylalanine is converted into tyrosine, which is another amino acid needed to make protein. It is also needed to make certain brain chemicals and thyroid hormones. Phenylalanine deficiency signs include:

* Confusion
* Decreased alertness
* Lack of energy
* Diminished appetite
* Decreased memory

Phenylalanine Warnings:

A rare disorder called phenylketonuria (PKU) happens in humans who are missing the enzyme required to metabolize phenylalanine. Symptoms of this disorder tend to appear between the ages of 3-6 months. These include:

* Eczema
* Developmental delay
* Abnormally small head circumference
* Hyperactivity

If PKU is not treated within the first three weeks of life, it can cause severe and irreversible mental retardation. Women who are pregnant or nursing should avoid taking phenylalanine as a supplement in any form. DL-Phenylalanine may cause hyperactivity, jitteriness and anxiety in children.

Phenylalanine is the major ingredient in the artificial sweetener known as aspartame. Products containing this sweetener are required by law to carry warnings on their labels for phenylketonurics. People who have PKU can be severely injured by ingesting the sweetener. Products containing this artificial sweetener include diet sodas, sugarless gums and some sugar substitutes. Some sugar-free versions of Jello, puddings, ice creams, candies and various other items also contain aspartame.

Other Phenylalanine Uses:

Some individuals have reported that taking DL-phenylalanine has improved their mood and aided in treating depression. This is the result of a higher rate of production of the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals, when out of balance, cause depression, stress and frustration. Elevation of the levels of these chemicals have an anti-depressant effect in the body.

One study suggests that D-phenylalanine has been shown to improve some symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease. These include: depression, rigidity, walking problems and speech problems.

The combination of L-phenylalanine and UVA radiation may be used to treat the symptoms of vitiligo. This condition involves de-pigmentation (white patches) of skin. The use of L-phenylalanine may help to re-pigment these patches, but further study is necessary.

DL-Phenylalanine has many uses and benefits if taken correctly. As with any new dietary supplement, consult your physician before beginning a new routine.



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Maitake Mushroom
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Date: May 24, 2008 12:12 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Maitake Mushroom

Medical practices treat the symptoms of disease. They do not prevent the illness itself. Alternative medicine offers a complement to the traditional methods. More and more physicians are realizing this and responding to it in their own practices.

It is becoming more common for physicians to enlist the aid of the natural world in treating their patients. Often, along with traditional medicine, doctors will suggest using a natural product in conjunction with a prescription. One such natural healer is the mushroom.

The Maitake and Other Mushrooms

Mushrooms come in many different varieties and species. They contain a large number of compounds that offer potent healing properties. One of the most useful species of healing mushrooms being recognized for its effectiveness is the maitake mushroom. This mushroom is being tested for its ability to enhance the production of infection-fighting cells in the human body.

Mushrooms are found in wooded areas all over the world and cultivated by both professionals and amateur collectors. If you wish to harvest your own mushrooms, it is vital to your health and safety that you research what each species looks like. Some mushrooms are poisonous to the point of being life-threatening.

These spongy fungal foods are used to make certain immune system enhancing extracts, either alone or in combination with other members of the healing mushroom family.

Mushrooms contain compounds known as alpha and beta glucans. These glucan phytonutrients are actually long-chain polysaccharide molecules. They consist of millions of glucose molecules that are chemically bound to each other.

The beta-glucan compound has been found to have great abilities to enhance the function of the human immune system. Lab studies are finding that the beta-glucans activate production of T-cells and NK (natural killer) cells. These are the cells that fight viral and bacterial infection and, in some cases, even cancer.

A healthy immune system is the only sure way for a human being to remain disease free. When the body’s immune system is not in optimal shape, infections attacking the body are much more serious and can even be life threatening.

The Different Healing Mushrooms

There are many different mushrooms that are studied and used for their medicinal properties. Of the many species of mushrooms, the most common and most used by alternative medicinal healers are:

* Maitake. The maitake mushroom can be found growing on oak trees all over the world. The maitake mushroom is best known for its ability to stimulate the production of T-cells in the blood.

* Shitake. The shitake mushroom is the best known and most widely used as an immune system booster.

* Cordyceps. The extract from the cordyceps mushroom has proven to be effective in fighting various forms of bacteria. It is also known to increase physical stamina. The sports world took notice of the possible benefits of cordyceps mushrooms in 1993 when nine women who were taking cordyceps reportedly broke world records at the Chinese National Games.

* Reishi. This mushroom has been used by the Chinese for thousands of years as an immune system enhancer.

Safety and Effectiveness

A consumer warning states that consumers should be aware of false advertising of mushroom extracts. Many beta-glucan products on the market are not 100% pure. A large number of them only contain about 1% beta-glucan. It is wise to always speak with a trained and knowledgeable store employee before purchasing any product you are unfamiliar with. It is also important that you read the labels of any product you are considering purchasing.

Although not widely recognized yet, the maitake mushroom is fast becoming a leader in the mushroom world for its immune boosting properties. Physicians and consumers are becoming more open to and educated about the medicinal uses of mushrooms. They are in abundant supply all over the world and are waiting to be discovered.

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(OPC) Grape Seed Extract
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Date: May 03, 2008 12:49 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: (OPC) Grape Seed Extract

Back in the early 1930’s scientists discovered that proanthocyanidins found in grape seeds, green tea, and several other foods are powerful antioxidants that can help the body fight free radicals. Over the year’s research continued to mount on the benefits of proanthocyanidins and in the 1990’s grape seed took the spot light.

Research studies suggested in the 1990’s that moderate use of red wine daily has significant health benefits and mainstream press popularized this notion. Supplement manufactures jumped on the bandwagon and produced a product that was alcohol free with the same benefits of drinking red wine. This was good news for those who don’t want to drink on a regular basis but the manufactures didn’t back up their product with any research at that time.

Proanthocyanidins are a group or class of flavonoids found in many plants as discussed above. Scientists discovered polymecric and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPC), but the oligomeric has a smaller molecular weight and can pass through the intestinal walls easier than the polymecric proanthocyanidins (PPC). This means that if you are not consuming the OPC extract for of grape seed then you are probably getting very little benefit from the supplement.

If you are taking a grape seed extract supplement and there is no OPC listed on the label, the manufacture is most likely just tableting or encapsulating crushed grape seeds that aren’t standardized to the most active form OPC. This will dramatically reduce the cost of grape seed extract, so if you see a low prices grape seed extract at your health food store, be weary of the product if it doesn’t say OPC.

When one consumes true OPC grape seed extract, one can experience many health benefits including cardiovascular benefits. Have you had your OPC Grape seed extract lately?



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Butcher's Broom Extract
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Date: May 02, 2008 11:04 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Butcher's Broom Extract

Butcher’s broom (Ruscus aculeatus) is a member of the lily family, and looks a bit like a holly bush with barbed evergreen leaves and bright red berries in the fall. At one time they were collected, tied together and sold to butchers as brooms to sweep out their shops.

The stiff leaves were particularly suitable for cleaning out offal and other waste products from butchered animals and also for scrubbing butcher’s blocks. It was also used as a deterrent to rodents with their eyes on the meat! Alternative names are sweet broom, kneeholy and Jew’s myrtle, so named because it was used during the Feast of the Tabernacles as one of the ‘four species’ used in the lulav.

The herb was commonly used in Ancient Greece and Rome, the Greeks using it to reduce swellings of various kinds and the Romans using it to treat varicose veins. It has the same uses today, only the mechanisms are understood better. It has been used for centuries in the Mediterranean area for the treatment of inflammations and problems with the circulation, and the Romans used to mash up the leaves and berries to add to wine, and they also used the roots and rhizome as a medicine by soaking them in wine. Today, it is illegal to use holly as a decoration in Italy, so butcher’s broom is used instead.

All parts of the plant are used, including the rhizome, and although it is used as a diuretic, and to control a loss of blood pressure experience by some people on standing up, it is its effect on blood vessels where its main medical benefits lie. Butcher’s Broom can strengthen certain portions of blood vessels, and change the flexibility properties of the cell walls.

The result of this is that the vessels are tightened up, which helps to maintain the flow of blood throughout the body, but also renders the cell walls less likely to leak or crack under stress. The result is a reduction in blood leakage from stretched and weakened blood vessels such as those that result in hemorrhoids, and also of conditions caused by weakened valves in the veins such as varicose veins and spider veins.

The blood pressure in the veins is very weak since they are so far away from the heart, the blood having passed through the arteries, through the capillaries and into the veins on its way back to the heart before being pumped to the lungs. When the valves become weakened, particularly in the large veins in the leg, there is little to prevent the blood from coming under the influence of gravity and pooling back down the vein, causing distention and occasional ruptures.

A ruptured varicose vein can be very serious and cause significant blood loss. Weakened valves can also lead to the formation of blood clots, which is itself a very serious condition that eventually blocks the heart or causes a stroke. Not only can butcher’s broom strengthen the vein walls and prevent leakage, and also enable them to more easily resist the pressure that can cause them to rupture, but it can also be used to break down blood clots. In fact the herb is used in many European hospitals to prevent the formation of blood clots after surgery.

The active ingredients in the rhizome are saponins that contain the aglycones ruscogenin and neuroscogenin and the associated spirostanol and furostanol glycosides. The receptors that cause vasocontraction are known as adrenoreceptors, these receptors can be selectively stimulated by butcher’s broom extract to tighten the veins and improve the return of blood. When introduced intravenously, butcher’s broom was noted to constrict venules (small veins that feed the main veins but not arterioles (the small arteries than feed the capillaries). Hence blood vessels can be selectively treated, and the effect on isolated blood vessels was enhanced by heating. Many supplements include calcium that helps to strengthen the blood vessel walls.

It is possible, therefore, to target the blood vessels that require constrictive treatment in order that they are strong enough to return blood to the heart rather than leak or distend. However, that is not the only health benefit that butcher’s broom provides. It can also be used as a diuretic. It is not a strong diuretic, but is used to relief the swelling of bruises and PMS, the reason given being that since leakage from the blood vessels is lessened, then more fluid is available to pass through the kidneys. There might be other reasons.

It is also use for the treatment of ortho static hypotension, the reduction in blood pressure that some people experience. It is believed that butcher’s broom can control this condition without increasing blood pressure, as most other remedies do, and which is almost as undesirable as the condition they are treating.

There are few problems associated with the herb, although few studies have been carried out its use by pregnant women. Although the one test that was carried indicated no effect, it would be wise for pregnant or nursing women not to use it until further studies have been carried out. Due to its effect in tightening blood vessels, its use is not recommended by anybody suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension). Many hypertension treatments are designed to render the blood vessels more elastic rather than constrict them.

In one very small study of pregnant women who used a topical cream containing butcher's broom, no side effects were seen for either the mother or the baby. However, very little information is available on how oral butcher's broom might affect a developing fetus, an infant, or a small child. Therefore, its use is not recommended during pregnancy, while breast-feeding, or during early childhood.

Because it tightens blood vessels, butcher's broom may worsen high blood pressure or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH). Individuals with either of these conditions should not use any form of butcher's broom without first consulting a doctor. The known side effects have already been stated, and they are fairly mild, but few studies have been made on the herb other than in Europe, and the side effects have not been fully explored. It is unlikely; however, that there are any as yet unknown serious side effects since butcher’s broom has been used now for a long time, particularly in Europe.

The term ‘ruscogenin’ is used for the collective mixture of active saponins in butcher’s broom, and many of the supplements are formulated to include from 5 to 15 mg of these. However, check the label, since standardization is not yet required in the USA, and in theory a preparation can include much more or much less ruscogenin. It is frequently supplied with other active ingredients, such as vitamin C or calcium, and perhaps even horse chestnut that affect blood vessels in a similar way. Always follow the instructions on the package, since these are designed for the specific strength of supplement you are using.

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Vitanet ®, LLC

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Are You At Risk And What Can You Do About It?
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Date: April 23, 2008 04:54 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are You At Risk And What Can You Do About It?

Did you know there are Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) that can have an endocrine disrupting ability? Meaning, these chemicals can have an estrogen like and anti-androgen effect on the body, disrupting the normal function of our endocrine system which can cause all sorts of health issues.

Back in the industrial boom directly following world war II these chemicals were widely used in plastics, cosmetics, personal care products, cleaning agents, clothing, household furnishings, and decorations, food and water, fertilizers, and pesticides and fungicides. These chemicals are being banned by the government but are not gone all together yet.

Endocrine disruptor chemicals are fat soluble which means when consumed they are stored by the body in our fat stores. This makes these chemicals a persistent pain in the butt for a very long time since fat soluble substances tend to be stored and slowly released; some claim the release can be years and years down the road.

These types of toxins can easily leach into water including juices and can vaporize into the air that we breathe in to our lungs. Once ingested, these chemicals can lead to reproductive, developmental, behavioral, neurological, endocrine, and immunologic adverse health effects that can last a lifetime.

Those men and women who want to have children may discover that one of both at have reproductive impairments due to POPs. Symptoms of toxicity are male infertility, gynecological problems, and accelerated puberty, developmental abnormalities of the reproductive tract, premature delivery, behavioral problems, abnormal thyroid function, cancer and heart disease. In cases of children, signs of toxicity are leukemia when fetal exposure is experienced.

The wide spread use of phthalates in industrial and consumer products has raised a lot of concerns. Phthalates are what keep plastics flexible. Dibutyl phthalate is used in PVC piping (in new homes the piping that supply water to faucets), various varnishes and lacquers, safety glass, nail polishes, paper coatings, dental materials, pharmaceuticals, children’s toys, and plastic food wrap. The heating of plastic containers either by microwave or a hot cup of tea can easily leach these phthalate’s in to food or drink exposing humans to high amounts of this toxin.

Also, Parabens are high on the watch list for those health minded. Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals used as a preservative in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. The most common parabens are methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. These three are used as a bacteriocidal and fungicidal agent in many products we use every day. The FDA does not require approval of cosmetic ingredients before they reach the market place so cosmetic manufactures are free to use what ever they want in their products.

Parabens have been shown to have a mild estrogenic affect on the body, and are in practically all personal care products on the market today. If you are applying a name brand cosmetic onto your skin daily, take a look at the label to see if Parabens are used.

For those looking to stay away form all the above listed toxins look for products packaged in glass, PETE or HDPE bottles and containers. Look for packets lined with saran, and can linings made of polyolefins. Use biodegradable household cleaning agents and avoid sprays and insecticides. Cleaning supplies are not required to list ingredients so it is always buyer beware unless the label states it is free from PCBs, Parabens, and POPs.

Finally, when buying furniture avoid furniture that contains flame retardant PBDEs and limit children to the exposure of such furniture. Exposure to PBDEs can lead to some of the above listed symptoms and cause health problems. Staying healthy is a tough task with all the environmental toxins we face. By buying organic foods and avoid the above listed chemicals one can live longer and maintain better health over a lifetime.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1768)


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1746)


NOW Foods Turmeric Scored
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Date: March 25, 2008 02:27 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: NOW Foods Turmeric Scored

NOW® Foods High Potency Curcumin 665 mg (total curcuminoids, from turmeric root extract) successfully passed all three quality categories, earning an official consumerlab.com approval. Each serving contained 665 mg of curcuminoids as stated on the nutrition fact panel, and disintegrated within the amount of time set by Consumerlab.com. With regard to product purity and safety, NOW® Curcumin formula was found to be free of both lead and cadmium.

And while NOW scored high all-around high marks, some of the other brands tested did not fare quite as well. Lead was found in two of the formulas tested, and two others did not contain the potencies that were claimed on their labels. One contained just 49% of the amount claimed, while another contained only 11.5% of the 500 mg they were claiming.

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=1730)



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