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The nutritional content and health benefits of pecans and walnuts Darrell Miller 5/13/19
Vitamin E Alert: Researchers discover surprising reason why you maybe deficient in this critical antioxidant Darrell Miller 5/7/19
Go nuts with the cancer-protective properties of walnuts Darrell Miller 4/29/19
A diet rich in nuts like almonds is found to drastically improvecolon cancer survival Darrell Miller 4/23/19
The Best Keto Fiber Foods & Why You Need Them Darrell Miller 4/18/19
New evidence shows that walnuts optimize the gut microbiome tosuppress colon cancer cell growth Darrell Miller 4/6/19
Top 8 Vegan Omega-3 Sources: How to Get Vegan Omega-3 Into the Diet Darrell Miller 2/11/19
Regular consumption of nuts may improve male fertility Darrell Miller 7/5/18
Omega-3s for Heart Health Darrell Miller 12/17/17
Eating walnuts may help ward of several diseases: experts Darrell Miller 11/12/17
What to eat to keep your brain healthy - and help to prevent dementia Darrell Miller 10/27/17
Cancer-fighting super foods Darrell Miller 8/30/17
Simple tips to keep your colon clean Darrell Miller 6/23/17
How Coconut Oil May Rescue The Brain From Alzheimer’s Disease Darrell Miller 6/4/17
10 Foods your liver loves you to consume Darrell Miller 4/13/17
World Health Day: 10 foods that can combat depression Darrell Miller 4/10/17
Omega-3s are more important than you think Darrell Miller 4/3/17
7 Foods That Can Help Prevent Heart Disease Darrell Miller 3/22/17
Walnuts can help improve sperm quality —Scientists Darrell Miller 3/20/17
Are walnuts the key to fighting prostate cancer? Researchers think so Darrell Miller 3/18/17
How To Gain Weight | Remedies To Gain Weight Darrell Miller 3/15/17
The foods that will improve your focus, according to a nutritionist Darrell Miller 3/9/17
IF YOU ARE LOSING YOUR HAIR AND YOU HAVE BRITTLE NAILS, This Is What You Need!! Darrell Miller 2/20/17
7 Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Must Add to Your Diet Darrell Miller 12/29/16
'Handful of nuts a day may cut heart disease, cancer risk' Darrell Miller 12/12/16
Best Vitamins and Minerals for Hair Growth Darrell Miller 12/9/16
The foods to eat to help certain parts of your body Darrell Miller 12/5/16
Always Tired? Burnout and Adrenal Fatigue Solutions Darrell Miller 11/10/16
You Can Repair the Adrenal Glands with the Right Diet Darrell Miller 11/9/16
How to Build Strong Bones Darrell Miller 11/7/16
Tips to Help Fight Breast Cancer Darrell Miller 10/5/16
Fight worms and fungus with black walnut Darrell Miller 9/6/16
Expelling Parasites and Worms with Black Walnuts Darrell Miller 8/7/15
ROLE OF BRANCH CHAINED AMINO CIDS IN MUSCLE GROWTH AND ATHLETIC PERFOMANCE Darrell Miller 1/20/14
Are There Herbs And Vitamins For Pain? Darrell Miller 12/29/12
Molybdenum Trace Mineral Darrell Miller 11/16/12
Omega-3 Oil- Learn Why it is So Important for Your Health Darrell Miller 2/13/12
If I am A Vegetarian, Do I Need Extra Iodine For Proper Thyroid Function? Darrell Miller 10/26/11
How Do I Eliminate Parasites Naturally from the Colon? Darrell Miller 4/11/11
A Good Vitamin Plan Is Essential To a Health Child To Help Fight ADHD Darrell Miller 12/21/10
Take Control Of your Inflammation With Supplements Darrell Miller 5/27/10
Biotin For Better Health! Darrell Miller 4/14/08
Six Foods that Boost Heart Health Darrell Miller 1/21/08
Fruit and Vegetable Lightning drink mixes from Natures Plus Darrell Miller 2/6/07
Enjoy Some Nuts Every Day Darrell Miller 11/3/06
Is Fish Oil good for my heart? Darrell Miller 10/25/05
Best Bread ... Darrell Miller 6/13/05
Hearty Soy - Soy will cater to your cardiovascular well-being... Darrell Miller 6/13/05
The Science of Healthy Hair Darrell Miller 6/10/05
Take it to Heart - Lower Cholesterol Darrell Miller 6/9/05
Re: Its in the Blood Darrell Miller 5/9/05



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The nutritional content and health benefits of pecans and walnuts
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Date: May 13, 2019 04:21 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The nutritional content and health benefits of pecans and walnuts





Walnuts and pecans are both healthy snacks with lots of benefits. Walnuts have more fat and more protein, while pecans have more fiber and more natural sugars. The fat in both pecans and walnuts consists predominantly of healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, as well as omega-3s. Both pecans and walnuts are good for brain health and rich in antioxidants. Their polyphenols help to protect the brain, while their healthy fats help to safeguard the heart and prevent atherosclerosis.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pecans and walnuts might have differences in looks and taste, but they are very well regarded for their healthiness and great tastes.
  • When one takes a serving of walnuts, he discovers that it contains more calories than an equal serving of pecans and this extra energy is stored in fats.
  • The fats in walnuts are usually good fats which consist mostly of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, along with omega-3 fatty acids.

"Walnuts have the B vitamins choline and niacin, while pecans show tiny amounts of vitamin A."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-31-nutritional-content-and-health-benefits-of-pecans-and-walnuts.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6312)


Vitamin E Alert: Researchers discover surprising reason why you maybe deficient in this critical antioxidant
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Date: May 07, 2019 04:29 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Vitamin E Alert: Researchers discover surprising reason why you maybe deficient in this critical antioxidant





It turns out that a lack of vitamin C in your diet can severely inhibit your body’s ability to absorb and use vitamin E. Vitamin E is important to a variety of cellular functions, as well as preventing heart disease and preventing arteries from becoming stiff and hard. The vast majority of Americans don’t eat enough vitamin E, and the situation is made worse by inadequate vitamin C consumption, since vitamin C protects and complements vitamin E. Good sources of these vitamins include kale, apples, carrots and walnuts, as well as supplements.

Key Takeaways:

  • Vitamin E deficiency might be uncommon because it is estimated to affect only 0.1 percent of the population but that is still substantial when one does the maths.
  • There is another twist to the Vitamin E deficiency puzzle because it has been found that Vitamin C can affect the body’s ability to absorb Vitamin E.
  • Vitamin E boasts a lot of health benefits for people who take it in their diets including fighting off inflammation and reducing the risk of heart disease.

"Plus, even if clinically-definable deficiencies are uncommon, too many people are still missing out on the key health benefits of vitamin E because they get insufficient amounts of it in their diet."

Read more: https://www.naturalhealth365.com/vitamin-e-health-benefits-2914.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6277)


Go nuts with the cancer-protective properties of walnuts
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Date: April 29, 2019 02:48 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Go nuts with the cancer-protective properties of walnuts





Despite some of the negative press that the nut group receives overall, there is some significant proof that incorporating nuts, specifically walnuts into your diet can have positive effects. From assisting with cancer prevention, boosting your mood, weight loss assistance and even strengthen your bones, the benefits could outweigh your negative mindset. Also be aware that the method in which you prepare your walnuts could also change the properties of the un-roasted nut structure. Remaining natural with your nut selection is usually best.

Key Takeaways:

  • One of the widely grown and consumed nuts due to their health benefits are walnuts. They have bioactive compounds such as polyunsaturated fats, polyphenols, and dietary fiber.
  • While walnuts are popularly eaten raw or roasted, it has long been assumed that heat treatment may change them but a study reveals that this is not the case.
  • The study focused on whether roasted walnuts still have their anticancer properties and they tested both raw and roasted walnuts to in vitro digestion and fermentation.

"These results, which were published in the journal Nutrition Research, indicated that walnuts reduce the risk of colon cancer by inducing expression of genes involved in detoxification and by causing growth inhibition and apoptosis in colon adenoma cells."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-14-go-nuts-with-the-cancer-protective-properties-of-walnuts.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6212)


A diet rich in nuts like almonds is found to drastically improvecolon cancer survival
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Date: April 23, 2019 03:10 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: A diet rich in nuts like almonds is found to drastically improvecolon cancer survival





The antioxidant properties of just 100 grams of walnuts astoundingly has the antioxidant properties of over one-hundred oranges! Consuming walnuts, pecans, and almonds routinely can help decrease your risk of colorectal cancer due to these antioxidants that are naturally present within their makeup. Even those who had advanced stages of colorectal cancer were shown to be able to halt spreading through an in increase of healthy eating and nuts in their diet paired with regular physical activity.

Key Takeaways:

  • A study instigated by researchers at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute used 800 subjects.
  • Selected study participants all had stage III bowel cancer and were monitored to observe the effects of nut consumption in the progress of their disease.
  • The study revealed that those participants who ate at minimum 2 servings of nuts weekly evaded an early death, improving their odds by more than 50%.

"Almonds have immense health benefits and are ideal in improving bowel cancer."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-03-06-nuts-like-almonds-drastically-improve-colon-cancer-survival.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6164)


The Best Keto Fiber Foods & Why You Need Them
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Date: April 18, 2019 01:43 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Best Keto Fiber Foods & Why You Need Them





The Keto diet is well-known for emphasizing the value of healthy fats, but that doesn't mean it neglects the importance of fiber. It is not uncommon for those transitioning to the low-carb, high fat Keto diet to experience problems with digestion. The solution is to consume high fiber foods that keep you in a state of ketosis. These include non-starchy vegetables (e.g., cabbage and asparagus) as well as seeds and nuts. Keto fiber supplements - such as Gum arabic and Chia seeds - can also serve to maintain digestive regularity.

Key Takeaways:

  • Avocado is full of both healthy fats and dietary fiber, making it a valuable staple for people on keto diets.
  • Non-starchy vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and zucchini can provide lots of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants.
  • When eaten in moderation, high-fiber nuts like pistachios, walnuts, almonds and hazelnuts can provide fiber and nutrients and help digestion.

"Eighty percent of your total daily calories should be coming from foods like olive oil, coconut oil, grass-fed butter, nuts and seeds."

Read more: https://draxe.com/best-keto-fiber-foods/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6139)


New evidence shows that walnuts optimize the gut microbiome tosuppress colon cancer cell growth
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Date: April 06, 2019 09:26 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: New evidence shows that walnuts optimize the gut microbiome tosuppress colon cancer cell growth





Tree nuts, especially walnuts have been a controversial topic talked about for decades. In a new study, it was found that walnuts can help optimize the way your biology works and possibly suppress colon cancer. It is important to note that this study was done with mice, one group of which was fed a concentration of walnuts and was found to have around 2 times fewer tumors at the conclusion of the study. A quick overview of the nutrient profile of the walnut is also included for reference.

Key Takeaways:

  • According to the latest research, walnuts support the microbiome and contribute to the suppression of colon cancer cells.
  • Many vegans are fond of walnuts because because they contain beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
  • The phytonutrients in walnuts have a variety of healing properties that target and obliterate cancer cells.

"To date, colon cancer is the third most common type of the disease around the globe."

Read more: https://www.naturalnews.com/2019-02-10-walnuts-optimize-gut-microbiome-to-suppress-colon-cancer-cell-growth.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6121)


Top 8 Vegan Omega-3 Sources: How to Get Vegan Omega-3 Into the Diet
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Date: February 11, 2019 12:50 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Top 8 Vegan Omega-3 Sources: How to Get Vegan Omega-3 Into the Diet





Omega-3s have a wide variety of health benefits, from controlling inflammation to improving brain health. For vegans who wish to avoid fish-based omega-3 sources, a number of good vegan sources exist. Brussels sprouts are a superb source of omega-3s, as well as many other nutrients, as are walnuts. Algal oil — derived from algae — is another good source, and makes an excellent substitute for fish oil. Other good vegan sources include chia, flaxseed, hemp seed and spirulina.

Key Takeaways:

  • Omega-3 plays a lots of roles in maintaining health and some of it include reduced inflammation, decreased bone loss, and better bone function.
  • Some of the animal sources of omega-3 is fish, cod liver oil, salmon, and tuna while the sources of vegan omega-3 are limited.
  • For vegan hoping to get omega-3, Brussels is one good source. It contains omega-3 as well as other nutrients like fiber, vitamin C and vitamin K.

"Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get a good amount of all three forms of omega-3 fatty acids into a plant-based diet, including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)."

Read more: https://draxe.com/vegan-omega-3/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=6017)


Regular consumption of nuts may improve male fertility
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Date: July 05, 2018 05:54 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Regular consumption of nuts may improve male fertility





Regular consumption of nuts may improve male fertility

A new study has discovered that men that incorporate nuts into their diet can boost their male fertility. The study, which followed nearly 120 young men, found that those in the study group that regularly ate nuts that included walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts experienced enhanced mobility and vitality as well as higher sperm counts. At the same time, the nut consumers were found to have lower levels of sperm DNA fragmentation, which can lead to infertility. More studies will be needed to make a solid connection between nuts and male fertility.

Key Takeaways:

  • Infertility is often due to sperm DNA fragmentation which is shown to be significantly helped by the consumption of nuts.
  • During this particular study, the participants consisted of 119 healthy men who followed a generally Americanized diet.
  • Human nutrition specialist Dr. Albert Salas-Huetos is who conducted this study regarding nuts and their association to fertility levels.

"The study participants who consistently consumed nuts showed notable improvements in the vitality, mobility, morphology, and the number of their sperm – factors that are all associated with male fertility."

Read more: https://www.earth.com/news/nuts-improve-male-fertility/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5656)


Omega-3s for Heart Health
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Date: December 17, 2017 07:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Omega-3s for Heart Health





It has been studied and proven that increasing your consumption of Omega-3's can greatly reduce your chance of Heart Attacks and or heart disease as well as Stroke. Many people do not eat enough of Omega-3's which cause a nutrition gap in the population. One of the easiest ways to increase you Omega-3 intake is to eat more fish and seafood. You can also find Omega-3's present in some plant based nutrition as well. Some examples are Brussels Sprouts, Walnuts and Chia Seeds.

Key Takeaways:

  • If people want to increase their consumption of Omega-3's they can simply eat more fish and seafood
  • For people that prefer vegan or vegetable diets Brussels Sprout, Chia Seeds and Walnuts have good amounts of Omega-3
  • Increasing Omega-3 in your diet can reduce the chances of heart attacks and strokes

"The benefits of such omega-3 fatty acid supplementation over periods of up to five years (often in the range of 900 to 3,000 mg of EPA/DHA daily) against myocardial infarction and cardiac death appear to be particularly evident in those with a history of cardiovascular disease (CVD)."

Read more: https://www.naturalproductsinsider.com/articles/2017/12/omega-3s-for-heart-health.aspx

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5440)


Eating walnuts may help ward of several diseases: experts
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Date: November 12, 2017 03:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Eating walnuts may help ward of several diseases: experts





Walnuts are being examined by Indian researchers for their health benefits. Well known to have MUFAs and Omega-3 fatty acids, these nuts are heart healthy and can help lower triglycerides. Indian researchers are looking into the benefits of nuts to help with the rise of obesity on the subcontinent. As the wages have gone up in cities, so have the waistlines. By researching and hopefully introducing more healthy options to people's diets, they are hoping to have an impact on the subcontinent as a whole.

Key Takeaways:

  • Walnuts, which contain higher amounts of omega-3 than other nuts, can help prevent serious diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, etc.
  • Walnuts can also improve cognitive function, limit the effects of ageing, and delay the start of dementia, among other benefits.
  • The claims are supported by nearly 200 research papers published in the last 30 years, though it is not clear whether they were prepared or sponsored by the industry o legitimate scientific entities.

"Eating a diet rich in walnuts may help prevent several diseases prevalent in India such as cardiovascular disorders, cancer and diabetes, according to an international team of researchers."

Read more: http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/eating-walnuts-may-help-ward-of-several-diseases-experts-4915514/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5393)


What to eat to keep your brain healthy - and help to prevent dementia
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Date: October 27, 2017 01:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: What to eat to keep your brain healthy - and help to prevent dementia





Even though the science is still uncertain, the following tips can help prevent dementia in old age. Eat a health and mixed diet composed of natural fruits and vegetables, grains and nuts, fish, oils, and dairy produce. Choose low-sugar carbs. Eat a healthy amount of both plant and animal proteins. Use five key ingredients in your food when possible: quinoa, oils like extra virgin olive oil, spices like turmeric and coriander, canned fish, and walnuts. Exercise regularly.

Key Takeaways:

  • To supply the brain with proper fuel prepare to eat both protein and carbohydrates at every meal.
  • You don't have to know about nutrition to add antioxidants to your diet, just eat a variety of bright color foods.
  • Changes in diet is one of the easiest ways to help keep our brain healthy.

"Embrace local, seasonal foods, and combine them with colourful foods, brain-supporting oils and healthy proteins."

Read more: http://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/health/what-eat-keep-your-brain-11377328

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5374)


Cancer-fighting super foods
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Date: August 30, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Cancer-fighting super foods





A diet high in phytonutrients, which are contained in vegetables is recommended to all persons to fight off cancer causing cells. In fact, it is recommended that people eat five to nine full servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. The article says that it recommends six of these fresh foods in particular. What is interesting is that it only mentions five. The ones listed are broccoli, berries, tomatoes, walnuts, and garlic. The list of cancers mentioned that are fought off by these particular fresh foods is an astounding number.

Key Takeaways:

  • Fruits and vegetables contain phytonutrients, which can help fight cancer.
  • A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide the best range of cancer-fighting compounds.
  • Garlic contains phytochemicals, which stop certain cancer cells caused by nitrates in food preservatives.

"Broccoli helps fight breast, liver, lung, prostate, skin, stomach, and bladder cancers."

Read more: http://www.thedailystar.net/health/health-tips/cancer-fighting-super-foods-1454506

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=5197)


Simple tips to keep your colon clean
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Date: June 23, 2017 12:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Simple tips to keep your colon clean





The colon is a very important organ of the human body, but it is often not cared for. Colon problems can lead to many different diseases that affect the digestive tract and other systems. If bowels are clogged, water, vitamins, and minerals cannot be absorbed by the colon and into the blood. An infected colon affects many different aspects of a persons health and well-being, such as causing stress on the heart, fatigue, and weight gain. To keep the colon clean, one should drink more water, cut processed red meat intake, eat walnuts, avoid chemical laxatives and antacids, and go for regular colon cancer screenings if fifty years or older.

Key Takeaways:

  • Colon plays an very important role in our digestive system.
  • A problem in the Colon can result in a lot of different types of diseases
  • Having a healthy lifestyle is the key to keep the Colon healthy

"When it comes to our digestive health, we assume that the body will take care of the problem. But if we don’t do our part, the problem will only get worse."

Read more: http://www.belmarrahealth.com/simple-tips-keep-colon-clean/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4868)


How Coconut Oil May Rescue The Brain From Alzheimer’s Disease
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Date: June 04, 2017 04:14 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Coconut Oil May Rescue The Brain From Alzheimer’s Disease





One more reason to celebrate coconut oil! Coconut oil can be used for so many things -- from healing dry skin to easing constipation. However, coconut oil also shows promise to aid in easing Alzheimer's symptoms! In an exciting new study soon to be published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease titled, “Coconut Oil Attenuates the Effects of Amyloid-ß on Cortical Neurons In Vitro.”, researchers found that adding coconut oil can have positive effects on the brain soon after it's ingested, helping to heal the brain of what is known as "type 3 diabetes". Researchers believe coconut oil shows great promise in helping extend the brain functions of Alzheimer's patients and warrants more research.

Key Takeaways:

  • Neuron cells from rats were exposed to the peptides that are found to cause Alzheimer's Disease and coconut oil. Results show that coconut oil may act as a neuroprotective against Alzheimer's.
  • Research shows that the chemical compounds found in coconut oil may act as an energy source for neurons battling Alzheimer peptides.
  • Some argue that food as medicine should be a doctrine that is further explored. Because walnuts and coconuts contains fatty acids that feed the brain and resemble the brain as well.

"Could the poetry of our direct experience tell us something about the value this food has to our brain"

Read more: http://www.healthnutnews.com/how-coconut-oil-may-rescue-the-brain-from-alzheimers-disease/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4771)


10 Foods your liver loves you to consume
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Date: April 13, 2017 11:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 10 Foods your liver loves you to consume





The liver has an important role in keeping us healthy and filtering our systems. An unhealthy liver can lead to many diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, cancer and cardiovascular disease. There are many foods that help the liver function well and guard against disease. These include dark leafy vegetables, broccoli, garlic, walnuts, blueberries, turmeric, pineapple, green tea and avocados. Fresh vegetables and fruits of any kind are beneficial as is limiting alcohol intake and being careful to stay away from toxins.

Key Takeaways:

  • -Dark, leafy vegetables – Dark leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are packed with antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamin C, and carotenoids that are essential in maintaining a healt
  • -Broccoli – Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts help inhibit fat uptake and increase lipid output
  • -Garlic contains antibacterial, antioxidant, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties that are essential for liver health

"Adopting healthy lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, lower alcohol intake and less exposure to toxins may help promote liver health. Avoiding foods that are high in fat, sugar and preservatives do your liver a huge favor."

Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-04-02-7-foods-your-liver-loves-you-to-consume.html

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4402)


World Health Day: 10 foods that can combat depression
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Date: April 10, 2017 10:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: World Health Day: 10 foods that can combat depression





Certain foods are known to combat depression and affect one's personal state of mind. Berries high in vitamin C and antioxidants, different types of apples, walnuts, fatty fish (such as tuna, salmon, bluefish, and mackerel), carbohydrate and fiber rich whole grains, dark chocolate, various types of mushrooms, eggs, low fat cheese, and coconut are all food that are known to help treat the symptoms of depression due to various chemicals and substances inherently present in the foods listed.

Read more: World Health Day: 10 foods that can combat depression

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Omega-3s are more important than you think
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Date: April 03, 2017 06:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Omega-3s are more important than you think





It's common knowledge that Omega-3s are a very important nutrient and should be ingested regularly but many people still are not getting enough in their diet. Low levels of Omega 3 can cause a variety of problems such as anxiety, fatigue and confusion. Foods like wild salmon, mackerel, tuna, chia seeds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 and are easy to obtain. Read on for more details into this amazing nutrient and what can happen if you do not get enough in your diet.

Read more: Omega-3s are more important than you think

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4345)


7 Foods That Can Help Prevent Heart Disease
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Date: March 22, 2017 08:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 7 Foods That Can Help Prevent Heart Disease





Eating healthy has been shown to not only manage weight but also reduce heart disease. There are seven super foods that are especially beneficial to people's hearts. These super foods are: oatmeal, blueberries, nuts (especially pecans, walnuts and almonds,) fruits, vegetables, garlic and oily fish. Studies have shown that these super foods do wonders for heart health. Aged garlic, for example, can reduce hypertension without the use of prescription medicines. Most of these foods are easy to eat and keep on hand for snacking.

Key Takeaways:

  • If high blood pressure is a concern, two foods that may help are blueberries and garlic.
  • Antioxidant-rich and fiber-dense goodies, like fruits, veggies, oats and nuts can keep coronary disease at bay.
  • To reduce cholesterol and blood pressure even more, add fish rich in omega 3 fatty acids and avoid heavily processed, salty foods.

"We all know we need to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise but some foods, in particular, can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease."

Read more: http://rescu.com.au/foods-that-prevent-heart-disease/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4257)


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





Researchers have discovered the benefits of walnuts in the area of reproduction and a number of other health issues. In their study there was a noticeable correlation between the type and quality of fat in relation to sperm health. The fats in walnuts corroborate a previous study that walnuts improve reproductive health. A higher ratio of Omega 3 to Omega 6 is an indicator in a study of fertile and infertile men. More researchers is needed as to benefits of Omega 3. The study has shown walnuts improve health in the following: prostrate cancer, breast cancer, cognitive function and type 2 diabetes. According to the British Journal of Nutrition walnuts are also good for sustained mental reasoning. Information from Natural Health, March 16, 2017 by Sade Oguntola.

Key Takeaways:

  • Certain types of fats can impact men's fertility and the structure of their sperm.
  • Walnuts are one type of food, having the fats required to boost men's fertility and sperm structural integrity.
  • One survey, utilizing mice, showed the mice with a walnut-enriched diet to have speedier sperm with overall better structure and functionality.

"A western-style diet has been blamed for lowering sperm function, especially motility, vitality and morphology in both humans and animals."

Read more: http://tribuneonlineng.com/walnuts-can-help-improve-sperm-quality-scientists/

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=4227)


Are walnuts the key to fighting prostate cancer? Researchers think so
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Date: March 18, 2017 04:44 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are walnuts the key to fighting prostate cancer? Researchers think so





Prostate cancer is diagnosed in over a hundred thousand men each year. Researchers are seeking answers to questions about the role of diet in promoting and preventing this disease. A recent study looked at the impact of walnuts fed to mice. Some studies have suggested walnut consumption shrunk tumors in mice. Researchers have since wondered whether a specific component of walnuts was responsible for this result. Further study suggests a synergetic effect is responsible rather than a single component. These trials present intriguing new paths for research in human subjects.

Key Takeaways:

  • Walnuts are helpful in fighting prostate cancer, but you may need to eat the whole nut.
  • It has already been established that diet influences prostate cancer.
  • Omega 3's are nice, but by themselves won't prevent prostate cancer.

"It’s becoming increasingly clear in nutrition that it’s never going to be just one thing; it’s always a combination."

Read more: http://www.naturalnews.com/2017-03-14-are-walnuts-the-key-to-fighting-prostate-cancer-researchers-think-so.html

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How To Gain Weight | Remedies To Gain Weight
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Date: March 15, 2017 11:14 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How To Gain Weight | Remedies To Gain Weight





The video briefly mentions the dangers of being underweight and then talks about home remedies for gaining weight. Specifically, detailed instructions and demonstrations are given for the creation of two weight gain aids. Then it explains the reasons mangoes work well for this task and suggests mango shakes, but does not demonstrate. Then it advises one to eat bananas at breakfast along with warm milk with sugar. The video then does several more recipe demos, interrupted only by a suggestion to eat raisins.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zgIdfa9C7U

Key Takeaways:

  • It is very important to take proper steps to increase your weight. Proper diet and exercise help you to gain weight.
  • Here is a delicious drink to gain weight, for this we need, Milk, pista, cashew nuts, walnuts and a banana.
  • Eat 1 to 2 ripe bananas for breakfast and then consume a glass of warm milk with sugar, by doing this you can gain weight

"It is very important to take proper steps to increase your weight, proper diet and exercise help you to gain weight."

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The foods that will improve your focus, according to a nutritionist
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Date: March 09, 2017 10:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The foods that will improve your focus, according to a nutritionist





It takes a lot of energy to think. In fact the average adult brain uses a whopping 20 per cent of your daily calories, which is much more than any other organ in the body. It’s preferred source of fuel is glucose, which comes from carbohydrate-rich foods like wholegrains, including rye, oats, and brown rice. These foods are high in fibre making them slower digesting, which ensures a steady supply of energy to your brain keeping you mentally alert throughout the day.

Key Takeaways:

  • Want a long, happy, successful life? A good place to start is by feeding your brain (literally).
  • walnuts, wholegrains, B vitamins, berries, oily fish and pumpkin seeds are among the best foods for brain health.
  • These foods have nutrients that have been tied to everything from staying alert to protecting against dementia.

"Having abundant energy, increased concentration and sharp memory are important for a successful career, as well as a long healthy life. But it’s easier said than done, right?"



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.bodyandsoul.com.au/nutrition/nutrition-tips/the-foods-that-will-improve-your-focus-according-to-a-nutritionist/news-story/ea7bba6cd20951413185a2706e8d856c&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjBhMmIxOTgxN2IyMDM3NjI6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNH8jAqV99a-XPF7X62CuxEnOJpzzQ

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IF YOU ARE LOSING YOUR HAIR AND YOU HAVE BRITTLE NAILS, This Is What You Need!!
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Date: February 20, 2017 10:19 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: IF YOU ARE LOSING YOUR HAIR AND YOU HAVE BRITTLE NAILS, This Is What You Need!!





For people that are losing their hair and have weak and brittle nails, there is a cure for you. Adrenal gland issues can effect these parts of your life. A homemade and natural recipe using Brazilian walnuts is the answer. You only need a few natural ingredients and you will be on your way to fixing these issues.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LY8GC7VOcIs

Key Takeaways:

  • Adrenal gland issues can affect the health of your hair.
  • Your adrenal glands are located on the top part of your kidneys.
  • The adrenal glands are responsible for the release of several hormones.

"It may interest you to know that adrenal gland issues can affect the health of your hair, nails and even your sleep quality."

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3981)


7 Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Must Add to Your Diet
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Date: December 29, 2016 12:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 7 Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Must Add to Your Diet





Describes the various benefits of foods that can help people reduce inflammation in their bodies. Anti-inflammatory foods can reduce the amount of potentially harmful free radicals in your body. Has a list of some of the top foods that people can add to their diet and improve their overall health.

Key Takeaways:

  • One of the most powerful ways to combat inflammation is to fortify your diet with anti-inflammatory foods that can balance it out in your body. Certain
  • Certain enzymes present in walnuts inhibit production of neurotransmitters that cause pain and swelling.
  • Our body has a natural defense mechanism that fights anything unrecognizable that enters it such as microbes, viruses or chemicals.

"One of the most powerful ways to combat inflammation is to fortify your diet with anti-inflammatory foods that can balance it out in your body."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//food.ndtv.com/health/7-best-anti-inflammatory-foods-you-must-add-to-your-diet-1640371&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGmZmMDFkMTU2YWMzMmQ5OTU6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNHWM3JxO5I3sYZuB_p2rgFYvbsSvQ

(https://vitanetonline.com:443/forums/Index.cfm?CFApp=1&Message_ID=3717)


'Handful of nuts a day may cut heart disease, cancer risk'
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Date: December 12, 2016 04:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: 'Handful of nuts a day may cut heart disease, cancer risk'





Want to stay healthy this holiday season? Do you enjoy eating nuts? Well then there is good news for you. Research shows that eating a handful of nuts a day could reduce cancer and heart disease. It is the good fats in the nuts that make them healthy, in small quantities.

Key Takeaways:

  • A new research claims that eating at least 20 grammes of nuts a day may lower the risk of heart disease, cancer and premature death.
  • Eating at least 20 grammes of nuts a day was also associated with a reduced risk of dying from respiratory disease by 50%, and diabetes by nearly 40%.
  • The study included all kinds of tree nuts, such as hazel nuts and walnuts, and also peanuts - which are actually legumes.

"The study included all kinds of tree nuts, such as hazel nuts and walnuts, and also peanuts - which are actually legumes."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.tribuneindia.com/news/health/story/332703.html&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjM5ZjM5OTY2MWYzZGRiYzA6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNEZsxDXE4I5Lgr3veYAd0gmIElaOg

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Best Vitamins and Minerals for Hair Growth
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Date: December 09, 2016 08:59 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Best Vitamins and Minerals for Hair Growth





For healthy hair growth, be sure you are getting enough vitamin C, B vitamins such as Biotin (also known as Vitamin B7 or Vitamin H) and Niacin (Vitamin B3). Foods such as sweet red peppers, guavas and dark green leafy kale contain very high amounts of Vitamin C. Foods such as the dark leafy green Swiss chard, carrots, and nuts including almonds and walnuts, are all naturally high in Vitamin B7. Niacin (Vitamin B3) is found in fish such as tuna and salmon, poultry (chicken and turkey), roasted peanuts and mushrooms.

Key Takeaways:

  • Without enough vitamin B-12, your energy levels will suffer; bone health can be negatively affected if calcium levels are inadequate; your immune system can’t be strong without adequate selenium.
  • Adequate vitamin D is important for preventing hair loss, especially in women. In one study, females who experienced female pattern hair loss also had low levels of vitamin D.
  • Vitamin A deficiency accompanies a host of serious health consequences. Though rare, this deficiency also leads to dry hair, which is one of the first indications that you’re not getting enough vitamin A.

"Everything your body does is fueled by nutrition. Without enough vitamin B-12, your energy levels will suffer; bone health can be negatively affected if calcium levels are inadequate;"



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/vitamins-and-minerals-for-hair-growth/&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjVkYjY3ZDViNDdiNGM3ZTc6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNECAY0zWZlweISCkmjxM5boPCTk6w

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The foods to eat to help certain parts of your body
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Date: December 05, 2016 04:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (support@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The foods to eat to help certain parts of your body





In the Middle Ages, there was a practice called “the doctrine of signatures.” The idea was that food items that looked like certain body organs would help those organs. While there is no science behind this, there are certain foods that follow this pattern. Some such foods are walnuts, tomatoes, ginger, and celery, which help your brain, heart, stomach, and bones, respectively.

Key Takeaways:

  • Carrots for your eyes This veg gets its colour from high levels of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A, helping retina function.
  • walnuts for your brain Think of this: loaded with omega-3s, protein and melatonin, walnuts are quite literally brain food.
  • Tomatoes for your heart Rich in lycopene and potassium, tomatoes help reduce bad cholesterol lower high blood pressure.

"walnuts for your brain Think of this: loaded with omega-3s, protein and melatonin, walnuts are quite literally brain food."



Reference:

https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=//www.bodyandsoul.com.au/health/health-news/the-foods-to-eat-to-help-certain-parts-of-your-body/news-story/f0af9ad30983e467da3a3babceee9183&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjVkYjY3ZDViNDdiNGM3ZTc6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AFQjCNE957IqsFvH2yWOGYvidvBxExLFNA

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Always Tired? Burnout and Adrenal Fatigue Solutions
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Date: November 10, 2016 05:53 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Always Tired? Burnout and Adrenal Fatigue Solutions

Do you often feel run down and fatigued during the day? So tired you could sleep? Do you crave and use salty and sweet foods as well as caffeine to get you through the day?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions it is likely that you may be suffering from Adrenal Fatigue or "Burnout." It's a very common problem which often goes unnoticed. It affects significantly more women than men. The number of people suffering has rocketed since the recession - money worries and job worries causing major stress.


What is Adrenal Fatigue?

Adrenal Fatigue is a term used to describe when the adrenal glands are exhausted. Adrenal fatigue is very commonly associated with stress levels. The adrenal glands release Cortisol in response to all stress, cortisol is your natural anti-inflammatory and reduces stress and inflammation levels when needed.

Your adrenal glands are located just above the kidneys and are the size of walnuts. They have a very important function within the body, they secrete over 50 different hormones which your body needs to survive. As well as cortisol some of the other hormones that the adrenal glands secrete include testosterone, estrogen, epinephrine, and progesterone.

People can live with this all their life and think it is just normal. This fatigue cannot simply be relieved by a good night's sleep. An estimated 80% of people at some point experience some form of adrenal fatigue and the physical symptoms associated with stress.

It is unlikely that a doctor will immediately diagnose you with adrenal fatigue, in my research I read about a female sufferer of adrenal fatigue who saw 27 different doctors before having her problem identified as adrenal fatigue! This is an extreme case.


Symptoms and negatives effects of adrenal fatigue

Adrenal fatigue can really wreck the life you live, in extreme cases, it can be so bad that you are only able to stay awake and move around for a couple of hours a day. Changes are made in your carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism, fluid and electrolyte balance is affected as well as your heart, cardiovascular system and sex drive as a result of adrenal fatigue.

The main symptoms of adrenal fatigue are:

  • You feel unusually tired a lot of the time 
  • You feel run down and have no energy
  • You struggle to wake in the mornings despite what time you went to bed the night before 
  • You struggle for energy in the afternoon 
  • It is only really about 10am when you wake up properly despite being up for several hours 
  • 'Wake up' again after around 6pm 
  • Illness and stress hit you hard and you struggle to get rid of it 
  • You have cravings for sweets, salty snacks and caffeine 
  • Increased PMS or menopausal symptoms 
  • Slight depression 
  • You feel weak a lot of the time, tired and weak at the top of stairs 
  • Low sex drive 
  • Increased allergies 
  • Dizziness and feeling light-headed after standing up


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

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


The Adrenal Fatigue Diet

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

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


Taking the Required Adrenal Fatigue Recovery Supplements

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

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

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How to Build Strong Bones
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Date: November 07, 2016 02:31 AM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: How to Build Strong Bones

You often heard your mother keep saying it when you were younger; also you hear your doctor say it even now "If you don't drink your milk, your bones will get weak."


Weak bones, joint pains due to lack of calcium and other vitamin deficiencies are fast becoming common. If you are amongst those who suffers from either, it is important that besides your weekly visit to your chiropractor, you also chalk out a healthy diet that is essentially good for your bones. There are plenty of bone-building foods that contribute to stronger bones, lesser joint pains and healthier bodies.


Foods Essential for the Bones

  • Nuts- Most nuts, particularly walnuts contain omega 3 fatty acids that help in reducing bone breakdown. Brazil nuts are an excellent source of magnesium, much needed for bone formation and strengthening. Peanuts and almonds are packed with potassium and are an excellent source of protein which helps keep the bones strong.
  • Milk- Milk and most dairy products like cheese and yogurt are excellent sources of calcium. Everybody knows the role calcium plays in building strong bones, teeth, and nails. Thus at least 2 cups of milk and milk products must be consumed daily to get the body's required calcium content.
  • Seeds- Almost all seeds like flax seeds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and even sesame seeds are extremely rich in nutrients and vitamins, specifically the bone-building mineral magnesium.
  • Leafy Vegetables- Vitamin K cuts calcium loss in urine, and its deficiency is known to increase the risk of hip fractures. Leafy green vegetables contain Vitamin K, Calcium, and Magnesium which are crucial to bone development.
  • Eggs- The yolk of an egg can give you about 6 % of the Vitamin D required by your body. Whole eggs are thus considered very good for bones. They are also high in protein.
  • Soy Milk- Lactose intolerance is common amongst Americans and soy milk is thus an excellent option for all those looking to get their dose of calcium but allergic to milk. Tofu is another food rich in calcium that can be consumed for better bone mass.
  • Fish- Salmon, Sardines, and Tuna are all excellent food to consume for bone building and strengthening. These fish contain extremely high levels of vitamin D and also omega 3 fatty acids essential for health and constant bone formation.

Multivitamins and calcium supplements will provide only so much of the required vitamin content of your body; moreover, they are expensive and not always natural. Finally, they are medicines that should be avoided.

Bones are made up of live cells that break down and build up every day and to assist and speed up this process, particularly of formation, ample amount of bone-building foods must be consumed. Most foods that contain Vitamin D and K or are rich in Calcium and Magnesium are perfect for strong, healthy bones and a painless lifestyle

So now you understand the natural method to build strong bones by retaining your calcium through a diet high in vegetables content and vegetables and then some more vegetables!



Related Products

0212459487732

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Tips to Help Fight Breast Cancer
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Date: October 05, 2016 05:38 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Tips to Help Fight Breast Cancer

For women, breast cancer is a well know villain. Medical doctors and specialists continue the long fight on all types of melanoma. Until a cure is found, women must maintain to fight the fight. These holistic remedies have showed promise in the fight against cancer.

Eat Your Broccoli - Yes, consuming broccoli may help lessen your uncertainties of getting breast cancer. It is stated to be one of the best veggies that battle many diseases due to its high sulfur content.

Work That Body - Help aid the prevention of breast cancer by working out to control excessive estrogen. The study suggests that exercising for about three to five hours weekly cut your risk in half of breast cancer, simply by decreasing tumor-promoting estrogen in your bloodstream.

Demolish Bad Fat From Your Diet - Cut virtually all harmful fats. Women eating a lot of trans fats tend to be two times as prone to suffer from breast cancer as women who consume the least.

Enjoy Soy - Investigation shows that utilizing soy may slightly lower your risk.

Munch on walnuts - Research suggests 2 Servings of walnuts each day might keep cancer at bay. By only eating on 2 oz. of delicious nuts, you can squash errant cells because of the anti-cancer compounds found in nuts.  A serving every day could prevent breast cancer extension up to 50%, based on the American Institute for Cancer Research.

Beans are Good For you Too - Women who consume beans and lentils have a substantial decrease of developing breast cancer compared to women who rarely eat them, based on a study in the International Journal of Cancer.

You are what you eat, by making healthier choices, one can fight back against cancer.

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Fight worms and fungus with black walnut
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Date: September 06, 2016 02:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
Subject: Fight worms and fungus with black walnut

Black walnuts are an astounding super food with numerous health advantages. With research and modern science, some nutritional elements have been discovered in black walnuts which make them efficient for multiple conditions.

Health Benefits

     These nuts contain an antifungal property which helps in treating ringworm, athlete foot including other fungal skin infections. The walnut powder can be smeared on the affected areas of the skin:

  •  Helps in treating other skin diseases such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis
  •  Treatment of cold sores, warts, and herpes
  •  It helps in reducing or stopping excessive sweating; they are thought to have an impact on overactive sweat glands and lessen the quantity of sweat produced.
  •  If you have sore throats, sores in the mouth and tonsillitis, gargle a mixture of black walnut extract and water to treat it.

Black walnut and Digestion:

     Black walnut hull tones and heals irritated intestines and recover the surrounding of the digestive track for efficient absorption and excretion.

     According to studies, cytotoxic compounds known as juglone have been found to be in black walnuts, and it contains an anti-cancer property which leads to the death of cancer cells.

     Black walnut extract aids in treatment of Candida yeast found in the body digestive system.

    Black walnut hulls, harvested green, are a renowned to lead in the prescription of pinworms, hookworms, tapeworms and other parasites in the intestines.


Refer to: //superfoodprofiles.com/black-walnut-benefits-health

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

Amino Acid

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

BCAA - Branched Chained essential Amino Acids

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

Dietary supplements containing leucine, isoleucine and valine

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

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

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Are There Herbs And Vitamins For Pain?
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Date: December 29, 2012 10:17 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Are There Herbs And Vitamins For Pain?

Everyone at one point or the other suffers some pain which could be of different kinds. We usually go for prescription drugs or at times, over-the-counter pain relievers. These drugs, however, have many side effects and do cause numerous health damages if used for a long period of time. Thus, it is much better to turn to natural pain relievers, such as herbs and vitamins.

Most herbs and vitamins for pain are used as food; therefore, do not have any side effects. This is however not the case in painkillers which are made from synthetic hormones, chemicals, and so on.

Herbal pain relievers.

Turmeric: Turmeric is popularly used in Southeast India for cooking. Turmeric has curcumin, a very powerful ingredient which aid to fight against chronic inflammatory ailments. Thus, turmeric is usually employed with some other herbs to relieve pain.

Ginger Root: Ginger root is a commonly used herbal remedy since it contains warming properties and helps to enhance blood circulation. It is essential in treating arthritis associated pains, backache and menstrual cramps. It's also used to treat sore throat. It is both analgesic and anti-inflammatory.

Valerian Root: This is used for chronic pain relief and as a skeletal relaxant. It may be used also for the treatment of trauma, cramps, shingles, headaches, insomnia, neuralgia, and stress. It possesses antispasmodic properties and is also a sedative.

Arnica: This is a homeopathic pain reliever and is believed to be particularly essential in the treatment of bruising and soft tissue injuries. It helps to alleviate overall sprains and muscle pain. It may be applied externally as a preventive measure to avoid injury prior to racing or exercising. Thus, it is seen to be applied topically and care must be taken so as not to apply it on a broken or open skin.

Vitamins for Pain Relief

Vitamin D: This is a unique vitamin since its main source is being exposed to UV light. A deficiency in this nutrient is widespread and a popular cause of chronic pains. As a matter of fact, a vitamin D deficiency significantly raises the risk of common women's pains. In a study, vitamin D deficiency was shown to raise risk of chronic pain, particularly in women, by over 50%. Aside from sunlight, other sources of vitamin D are mushrooms, shellfish, fatty fish and fortified orange juice.

Vitamin E: This is a potent antioxidant which protects nerves and joints from damages which may cause pain. In a recent research, it was discovered that vitamin E supplements lower nerve pain. Vitamin E-rich diets are walnuts, peanuts, wheat germ, corn and kiwi.

B complex Vitamins: These include many water-soluble vitamins, such as riboflavin, thiamine and folic acid. In a chronic pain animal model, it was discovered that high amounts of B-complex vitamins reduced pain significantly. B-complex vitamin supplements can be found in a number of supplement stores. Dietary sources are vegetables, whole grains, fortified cereals and fruits.

Vitamin C: This is an antioxidant just like vitamin E and protects nerve cells from damage. A scientist known as Paul E. Zollinger discovered that vitamin C supplements helped in reducing pain in wrist fractured patients. Foods rich in Vitamin C are broccoli, bananas, mangoes and oranges.

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Molybdenum Trace Mineral
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Date: November 16, 2012 08:20 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Molybdenum Trace Mineral

Molybdenum

Molybdenum is one of the important trace mineral found in plant and animal tissues. This mineral was discovered by Carl Welhelm in 1778. Many chemical processes of the body are governed by this mineral in an excellent way. This is a significant mineral being needed for the enzyme reaction of the body.

Food Sources

This mineral element is rich in many vegetables such as green leafy vegetables, peas and legumes, beans and cereal grains, black beans have this element in good form. walnuts and Lentils are also good sources of Molybdenum. Milk, almonds, peanuts, chestnuts, eggs, and tomatoes have this trace mineral in abundance. Potato and cauliflower have this trace element in good form. Yogurt, liver and carrots are other rich sources of Molybdenum. These food sources are needed for the human life to meet the basic needs of the life activities. 

Important mineral

Molybdenum is an important mineral for protein synthesis of body. The iron mobilization is also carried by this mineral in the body. The metabolic activities of the body are not possible without this mineral. The persons who have anemia are advised to consume the food sources rich in Molybdenum. The fat and carbohydrate metabolism is also governed by this mineral.

Sufficient amount of the mineral prevents pre mature aging. It is believed that this mineral prevents cancer in humans. Gastroesophageal cancer is prevented by this mineral in an exact way and hence it is necessary to maintain the health. The problem of asthma is also controlled by molybdenum. The asthma condition is improved by this mineral if taken in enough quantities. Gum problems, mouth problems, especially vtooth decay issue is prevented by this mineral. Even sexual impotence issue among humans is largely controlled by molybdenum. This trace element has abundant detoxifying effects on the body by the formation of aldehyde oxidase.

One in eight people are deficient in trace minerals.  Make sure you are getting trace minerals daily to sustain and maintain good health.

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Omega-3 Oil- Learn Why it is So Important for Your Health
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Date: February 13, 2012 09:24 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Omega-3 Oil- Learn Why it is So Important for Your Health

Omega-3 fatty acids are good polyunsaturated fats that are so essential for maintaining excellent health and for our well-being, but unfortunately 8 out of 10 people do not get enough!

There are three types of omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, DHA, and ALA. You can get ALA from walnuts and canola oil whereas other two are there in oily fish. Of these three, the best ones are only available from the oily fish. In case of ALA, you would need tons of it to get any desired benefits. Another thing to know about them is that they are essential fats that are not produced within the body, so they have to come from outside source.

Lets have a close look at various health benefits of Omega-3 fish oil for you and your family:

1. Cancer prevention-Many studies have revealed that adequate intake of Omega-3 can reduce instances of colon, testicular, ovarian and breast cancer.

2. About thirty percent of brain is actually DHA fat, and when Omega-3 is consumed on regular basis, one can see amazing improvement in concentration and memory.

3 Reverse Heart Disease-Omega-3 helps in reducing instances of plaque build up in arteries. People usually suffer strokes due to atherosclerosis (plaque build up), which get clogged over a period of time in the same way as drains get clogged due to their regular usage.

4. Boosts Immune System- The immune system of body is controlled by essential fatty acids in the regulatory system. Any shortage of Omega-3 fatty acids can lead to the breakdown of immune system. You can reduce various immune disorders by bringing about a balance in the intake of Omega-6 and Omega 3 fatty acids.

5. Fights Various Degenerative Diseases-In degenerative diseases, the structure or function of affected tissues deteriorate over a period of time. You can reduce this process by increasing the consumption of Omega-3 fish oil supplements. They are very beneficial for older people.

6. Increases Fertility-The main reason for infertility in females is the thickening of cervical mucus that impedes the movement of sperms. Aside from that, many vaginal secretions also act as spermicides. In both these cases, deficiency of fatty acids contributes to the problem.

Even in males, healthy reproductive and sexual functioning of sex glands is possible only with good concentration of Omega-3 fatty acids in sex glands.

7. Promotes Healthy Skin-Omega-3 fatty acids are important for your skin health. Each skin cell is wrapped up in membrane that consists of substances derived from Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids.

Where to get omega-3

You can get Omega-3 from fish oils. You will have to take at lest two servings of fatty fish for required quantities of Omega 3 fish oil. With issues such as toxin and mercury contamination in fish, Omega-3 fatty acid supplements are better alternatives.

Why omega-3 fish oil supplements?

The best Omega-3 fish oil pills contain purified and concentrated oil without any risk of toxin or mercury contamination.

Many reputable manufacturers now provide fish oil capsules with high concentration of EPA and DHA fatty acids with low levels of mercury. You should definitely include Omega-3 fish oil caps in your daily diet to get all the health benefits that your body deserves.

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If I am A Vegetarian, Do I Need Extra Iodine For Proper Thyroid Function?
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Date: October 26, 2011 07:26 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: If I am A Vegetarian, Do I Need Extra Iodine For Proper Thyroid Function?

Thyroid, Your Health, And Metabolism

We are given absolute freedom unto what kind of diet we would like to engage ourselves in hence, at present we could see a lot of people engaging into different kinds of diets. The vegetarian diet is one of the many kinds of diets that are becoming really common today. The vegetarian lifestyle is a diet composed mainly of fresh and organic foods however, if you plan to employ the said diet, thorough planning is highly required. Despite the fact that there are already a lot of vegetarian foods that are sold commercially, vegetarians should be mindful and vigilant so that they could avoid vegetarian foods that are heavily processed that gives you the wrong impression that these foods offers you a balanced nutrition while in fact they are deficient with some vital vitamins and nutrients.

Perhaps, we are all aware of the importance of iodine as a nutrient for the body. Iodine plays a vital role in various biological functions such as growth, metabolism, and development. When a person is deficient with iodine, it can cause various ailments such as goiters, thyroid cancer, thyroid nodules, menstrual problems, and headaches. Among the groups that are very susceptible of developing iodine deficiency are pregnant women and children. Pregnant women who are unable to meet the recommended daily allowance of iodine will relevantly affect the intelligence of their baby.

Most vegetarians get iodine from the cheese, milk products, and fish they consume. If you would want to have the sense of assurance that you are getting enough iodine that you need every day, you have to eat foods that contain liberal amounts of iodine such as agar, turnips, kale, spinach, kelp, summer squash, asparagus, and mustard greens. walnuts, brown rice, and wheat are also beneficial in providing you some protection against iodine deficiency. We could also not avoid the fact that some vegetarians are still unable to meet the recommended daily allowance of iodine because of some circumstances. To avoid such deficiency, intake of iodine supplements regularly and as prescribed is also very helpful.

At present, there are already many supplements that you can conveniently purchase to help you address iodine deficiency. However, when you are planning to take any supplement, it is wiser if you seek your physician’s advice first so that you will be properly and adequately guided on the right amount of the said mineral your body needs. Intake of supplements should be individualized because each and every one of us has different requirements of iodine because of the salient factors involved. So if you do not want to experience any health problems brought about by lack of knowledge.

All of us should be careful when it comes to taking good care of our health because any wrong move you could commit would have great implications to your over-all health state.

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How Do I Eliminate Parasites Naturally from the Colon?
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Date: April 11, 2011 09:36 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: How Do I Eliminate Parasites Naturally from the Colon?

Intestinal parasites infect over 3 billion people worldwide. These worm-like organisms populate the gastrointestinal tract and interfere with the absorption of foods. In children they may slow the normal progress of physical growth and intellectual development. In adults they cause muscle weakness, vitamin deficiencies, and susceptibility to fatigue. People from all over the world may acquire parasites from contaminated water and infected soil. Deworming is an effective way to get rid of these parasites. Fortunately, there are many herbs reputed for their anthelmintic benefits.

Garlic

Allium sativum, the popular spice known as garlic, is the best known anti-parasitic herb. Its wide distribution in every continent has enabled cultures from all over the world to take advantage of its medicinal uses. Garlic contains the organic compound allicin, which is the primary substance responsible for warding off worms and bugs that attack the plant. This is the same compound that destroys intestinal parasites, notably threadworms.

Black Walnut

Juglans nigra, or black walnut, is recommended specifically for the removal of pathogenic microorganisms, yeast infections, and intestinal worms. It is a flowering tree that belongs to the hickory family, and anthelmintic extracts are derived from the juice of unripe walnuts. Its antifungal effects are very visible after topically applied to fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. When taken orally, it has been noted to be particularly helpful against tapeworms.

Goldenseal

Hydrastis canadensis, called orangeroot or goldenseal in the vernacular, is historically noted for its ability to ease anomalies of the alimentary canal. It is rich in the alkaloid berberine, which restores health to the damaged epithelial tissues of the intestinal walls and expels invasive microorganisms. In recent years it has been observed to act against the parasites E. histolytica, G. lamblia, and Plasmodium as well as the bacterium E. coli.

Wormwood

Artemisium absinthium, better known as wormwood, is an ingredient of traditional herbal preparation used for deworming in the Mediterranean region. The discovery of sesquiterpene lactones in the plant explained its bitter taste and supported its centuries-old use as a vermifuge. Recent studies point to its activities inside the human body that inhibit growth of the parasites Giardia, Plasmodium, A. lumbricoides, and S. mansoni and effectively expel them.

Pumpkin Seeds

Seeds of pumpkin cultivars that belong to the species Cucurbita pepo have a long-standing association with the natural expulsion of intestinal parasites. Pumpkin Seed oil has a milder effect than other herbs but guaranteed to be the safest of all anthelmintic herbal remedies. It is most effective against tapeworms and roundworms. For better results, it is consumed in large quantities with ample liquids, and often ground into a pulp beforehand.

Clove

Syzgium aromaticum, or Cloves, refers to the dried flowering buds of the plant commonly used as a spice. It is often linked to Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine and known for the treatment of digestive ailments. Its oil has been proven effective against infections induced by certain strains of bacteria and fungi. It contains sesquiterpenes that are believed to kill intestinal worms.

If you have worms, you can experience fatigue, malnutrition, and leaning development delays or mental foggyness. Taking an herbal remedy to help expel worms of any kind should be used with a yearly detox and cleans to maintain good health and wellness.

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A Good Vitamin Plan Is Essential To a Health Child To Help Fight ADHD
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Date: December 21, 2010 06:19 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: A Good Vitamin Plan Is Essential To a Health Child To Help Fight ADHD

Have you known any child who is having difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and hyperactivity or over-activity? This child is probably experiencing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. ADHD is a common childhood disorders and can continue through adolescence and adulthood. Researchers are not sure what causes ADHD, although many studies suggest that genes play a large role.

Like many other health conditions, ADHD probably is a result of a combination of factors. There has been no cure for ADHD yet palliative management is promising in reducing symptoms of ADHD and improving the child’s well being and optimal functioning. These include medications, psychotherapy, training and education or a combination of these managements. In this article, we will be focusing on the natural vitamins that can help fight the exacerbation of ADHD symptoms which include:

1. Choline: Choline is a vital precursor to the production of neurotransmitters such as Dopamine and Acetylcholine. These nervous system chemicals are helpful in supporting concentration, alertness, and memory.

2. Zinc: Studies show that children in ADHD categories have lower levels of zinc and clincal studies reveal that those children who supplemented with extra zinc along with traditional ADHD medications have reported improvement of signs and symptoms most especially hyperactivity and impulsivity. Foods high in zinc include Seafood, oysters, salmon, crabmeat, and, red meat like beef, lamb and pork, poultry such as turkey and chicken, dairy products, nuts, beans, fortified cereals, and whole grains.

3. Fish oil: Most Oily Fish contain omega-3 fatty acids With DHA. These chemicals can improve mental skills and enhance the child’s ability to organize activities. Possible cause for the low fish oil status of the ADHD children may be impaired conversion of the fatty acid precursors namely Linolenic Acid and alpha-linolenic acid to their longer and more highly unsaturated products, EPA and DHA, which are fish oil fats. Fish high in omega 3 fatty acids include salmon, albacore tuna, herring, mackerel, trout, sardines, flax seeds, walnuts, butternuts and soybeans.

4. Magnesium: Magnesium can have a calming effect. The best thing about magnesium is that it is abundantly found in many foods. Low dietary magnesium levels could lead to anxiety, irritability, and/or restlessness. This mineral can also play a role in sugar metabolism, which is important when wanting to stabilizing moods and concentration. Magnesium, a calming mineral, can be found in foods like nuts, black beans, peas, seeds and ready-to-eat whole grain cereals.

5. Vitamin B-6: Vitamin B-6 is needed for normal mental development and is important in the synthesis of brain chemicals including dopamine , serotonin, and norepinephrine. A B-6 deficiency has symptoms of inability to concentrate, irritability, and short-term memory loss. Regular consumption of vitamin B-6 could help reduce behavioral issues in a ADHD child. Good sources of B vitamins are milk, fish, eggs, yeast, green-leafy vegetables and cereals. Oranges are a great source of vitamin C and can improve our mood.

These are some of the natural vitamins that we find in our food. A good multiple vitamin supplements with iron can be safe and effective.

If you Suspect your child has ADHD, whats stopping you from getting him or her on a supplement plan today?

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Take Control Of your Inflammation With Supplements
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Date: May 27, 2010 12:40 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Take Control Of your Inflammation With Supplements

Chronic inflammation is often induced by uncontrolled oxidative stress (free radical damage). It is the principle mechanism by which degenerative disease takes hold. By reducing oxidative stress and changing the balance within the body to favor the production of anti-inflammatory chemical messengers, one can lower their levels of inflammation. This can be achieved through conscious changes to diet and lifestyle, which includes appropriate supplementation.

By consuming foods that are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, EPA, and DHA, derived from fish oil or flax seeds, one can greatly influence and reduce inflammation. When the body has appropriate balances of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fats, the production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins is favored and inflammation is kept in check. Increasing the consumption of foods that are rich in omega-3s or supplementing with a high quality fish oil suppresses the formation of harmful prostaglandins and also promotes the synthesis of beneficial prostaglandins. Since the average North American diet contains 10 to 20 times the amount of omega-6 oils that we need, the most sensibly dietary approach is to reduce sources of omega-6 oils and supplement with a high dose of omega-3 oils in order to achieve the optimal 4:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3.

Supplementing with flaxseed oil is another effective way to optimize your omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. Anti-inflammatory EPA can be manufactured in the body by converting the alpha-linolenic acid that is often found in flaxseed oil. Supplementing with this oil, along with restricting omega-6 fatty acid intake, raises tissue EPA levels to those comparable to fish oil supplementation. It should even be noted that flaxseed oil contains more than twice the omega-3 fats as fish oil. Additionally, alpha-linolenic acid can be found in a variety of other plant source including pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and other nuts. However, flaxseed is by far the richest source of omega-3 oil, carrying 58% by weight.

Another nutrient that plays a crucial role in inflammation is gamma tocopherol. This nutrient acts through a mechanism that is unavailable to alpha tocopherol by reacting with RNO radicals to subdue inflammation. Gamma tocopherol also has the ability to reduce inflammation by inhibiting COX-2 , which is an enzyme that has a central role in the inflammatory process as it controls the synthesis of the inflammatory prostaglandin. The consuption of gamma tocopherol has been found to reduce several other inflammatory protagonists at the site of inflammation. Strong evidence has found that this form of vitamin E exhibits potent anti-inflammatory properties that are extremely important for human disease prevention and therapy.

Similar to essential fatty acids is resveratrol and green tea polyphenols each of which have the ability to inhibit the activation of NFkB and control a wide variety of inflammatory pathways. Green tea polyphenols are also believed to be neuroprotective, as they invoke a spectrum of cellular mechanisms such as the chelation of metals, scavenging of free radicals, and modulation of mitochondrial function in nerve tissues. Green tea polyphenols are now considered to be therapeutic agents that can alter brain processes and serve as neuroprotective agents in the progression of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

There are a wide variety of nutrients that are involved in fighting systemic inflammation. These nutrients and nutrient categories include EPA and DHA, linolenic acid, gamma tocopherol, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin C, flavonoids, procyanidolic oligomers, and the phenolic compounds found in green tea, turmeric, and olive extracts. When changing your diet from saturated fats to unsaturated fats and adds more fruits and vegetables to their diet along with antioxidant vitamin supplements, one can successfully reduce inflammation naturally and live a healthier happier life.

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Biotin For Better Health!
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Date: April 14, 2008 12:42 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Biotin For Better Health!

Biotin is one of the B vitamins, known as vitamin B7 and also, for some reason, vitamin H. If you have a deficiency of this vitamin you will know about it because it makes you bald. So keep up your vitamin B7 intake girls!

However, this should not be difficult since it is contained in cooked egg white (not raw), tomatoes, chard, onions, cabbage, strawberries, walnuts, halibut, carrots, liver, brewers yeast and cucumber to name but a few of the many sources. It makes sense that it has so many sources because biotin is essential for many of the biochemical reactions that take place continuously in your body.

It is contained in raw eggs, but is bound too tightly to the protein to be available to your body. It has to be cooked before the bond is broken sufficiently to render it bioavailable.

Included in these is the all-important Krebs cycle that releases energy from food. It is necessary for the growth of your body cells, for the metabolism of the fats you consume and for the biosynthesis of the fatty acids that are eventually converted to proteins and then the DNA that is essential for life. In other words, without biotin we would not be here.

However, do not get overly worried about the necessity of biotin in your diet, since the same applies to all of the other vitamins you consume. That is what vitamins are chemicals that have been identified ages ago as being essential to life. Without vitamins we could not survive which is why the vitamin supplement industry is so strong and healthy.

So, what does biotin do specifically, other than being necessary for some of the essential biochemical processes in your body? These tend to look after themselves, so what are the physical attributes that biotin provides for you? The name should give you a clue. In fact it should be familiar since it is one of the more commonly mentioned ingredients of hair care products: “Biotin for Healthy Hair” - ring a bell?

Although a deficiency of biotin is rare with a healthy balanced diet, it can happen, and when it does your first sign might be your skin drying out, your cholesterol levels will increase, you will feel continually tired and depressed with a poor appetite and you will be nauseous. You will also frequently vomit, which puts the icing on the cake of a set of very undesirable symptoms. It is important, then, that you do not suffer from a deficiency of biotin, vitamin B7 or vitamin H, whatever you want to call it, and is why many people take a supplement just to make sure.

This is normally taken as part of a general B complex supplement or even a general multivitamin supplement, since almost everybody has no idea what this vitamin is and why it is so necessary for your continued health. So let's have a look at why biotin is so important, with specific reference to your hair, skin and nails. However, we shall also examine its deeper biochemical uses and explain why it is such an essential vitamin.

With regard to biotin supplements in hair preparations, it benefit’s by helping one grow thicker hair, symptoms of a deficiency is brittle hair. If you are deficient, you will lose your eyelashes and eyebrows in addition to your hair, depending on the severity of your deficiency. As stated, however, that is particularly rare. The biotin content of shampoos is likely useless since it is not absorbed through the skin.

What it does in the diet, however, is to thicken the nails and also the hair fiber giving it a fuller appearance, so that you appear to have more hair than you actually have. It also increases the flexibility of the hair, skin and nails rendering them less brittle and less liable to breaking and scaling. However, as previously stated if you eat a good balanced diet you should avoid these problems, although a vitamin B complex supplement will do the job just as well.

So what else does vitamin B7 do for you? Lots in fact, so let's have a look at the more important of them starting with the function of your body cells in the production of energy. Biotin takes part in the Citric Acid Cycle, otherwise known as the Krebs Cycle, whereby energy is created by the conversion of carbohydrates, fats and proteins into carbon dioxide and water. It is one of the essential metabolic pathways of life, and biotin is needed to recharge the Krebs cycle with metabolites when mitochondria become deficient in these essential components.

Without them you would begin to feel tired and lack energy, and this would get increasingly worse without a biotin supplement. It is amazing that your energy is created in the mitochondria which are a part of the tiny cells that make up the tissue of your body, and equally amazing that it depends upon, among other substances, a vitamin of which very few people are even aware of.

In spite of any other effect biotin has on your body, including providing healthy hair, skin and nails, its primary role in your body is in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates into a form that can be used by your body for the production of energy. Biochemically, it functions as a coenzyme, which is a molecule needed to help an enzyme do its work. In fact an alternative name give to biotin is Coenzyme R.

It helps in the biochemical conversion of sugars to energy, and is a component of enzymes such as pyruvate carboxylase. That enzyme is protein contained within the mitochondria that contains a biotin prosthetic group, without which it could not function to help the body to generate energy during exercise. Suffice it to say that without biotin you would find it difficult to generate energy, especially when the demand for it is at its highest.

Biotin's biochemical role is not restricted to energy production however, and it is involved in the biochemical synthesis of amino acids and also of glucose from other sugars. Glucose is the main blood sugar that is manufactured in the body from the other saccharides that you eat, such as fructose.

A reasonable level of supplementation to ensure that you do not suffer from a deficiency is around 100 micrograms daily, although up to 5 milligrams (5000 mcg) are safe for the treatment of brittle nails or hair loss. Much depends on age and it is best taken as a vitamin B complex supplement, since the B vitamins appear to give best results as a team!

So, while you can have healthy hair, skin and nails with biotin, without it you will have no energy and likely have no need for your hair, skin and nails!



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Vitanet ®, LLC

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Six Foods that Boost Heart Health
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Date: January 21, 2008 01:57 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Six Foods that Boost Heart Health

The majorities of baby boomers are looking for a way to loose weight and lower their cholesterol. Both of these are two important factors in heart disease, which still remains the number one killer in the United States. The good news is that you can dodge heart disease through your food choices. Below are six foods that can help boost your heart health.

Many studies have proven the variety of health benefits given by fish, ranging from joint inflammation in arthritis sufferers to brain development in babies. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish support circulation and improve blood vessel function. Researchers have also determined that omega-3s can prevent heart-attack deaths as they stop the electrical disturbance that causes death and half of all heart attacks are due to these arrhythmias. Each week, you should eat one to two 3-ounce servings of fatty fish such as an Alaskan salmon, anchovies, herring or mackerel. By baking or poaching these fish at low heart you can help to preserve the omega-3s. For vegetarians, omega-3 rich flaxseeds can be added to oatmeal, smoothies, or salads. For those who don’t care for fish there are omega-3 oil supplements available as well.

Have you ever wondered why oatmeal is so good for you? In your body, this gluey beta-glucan, which is soluble fiber, binds to bile acids found in the intestines and stomach and excretes them as waste. In order to make more bile acids, the liver needs cholesterol and takes it from the blood. This results in lower blood cholesterol levels. You need 3 grams of soluble fiber each day to reduce your cholesterol by five percent. A cup and a half of cooked oatmeal is a good size serving that can be jazzed up in flavor with frozen berries, non-fat plain yogurt, almonds and much more.

High-glycemic foods like potatoes, white bread, and white rice should be avoided because you get a harmful burst of glucose and insulin that’s harmful immediately after eating them. These bursts tire out the pancreas in the long run and increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Research also shows that having high-glycemic foods at one meal will make you even hungrier and eat more at the next, which is why these foods are associated with weight gain. People with excess fat are much more likely to develop heart disease and stroke even if there are no other risk factors. Because of this, focusing on true grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and barley and choosing them over refined grains as much as possible.

Nuts are important for their unsaturated fats and their ability to help lower cholesterol. walnuts actually contain omega-3 fatty acids, while almonds boost calcium, helping the heart muscle to contract, and Brazil nuts have selenium, which is a heart-protective antioxidant. About one ounce each day of nuts is good for you, but they do have a lot of calories so make sure to go easy on them. If you have a nut allergy, topping you salad with olives is a good alternative, as they contain unsaturated fats.

Beans also contain soluble fiber like oatmeal which helps to reduce cholesterol and keep arteries clear. By choosing the protein from beans instead of meat, you can cut back on saturated fats which raise cholesterol. Eating beans four to five times a week is recommended, as they can be added to a lot of meals. If you don’t tolerate beans well, try adding kombu, a sea vegetable, to them to help break down the components that cause gas. Your body also does adapt to beans over time, so try building up your bean servings slowly. Food enzymes can help reduce gas as well so don’t forget to take your enzymes.

Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and other berries all have strong antioxidant properties that can help fight heart disease and are also low in calories and high in fiber. Eating two cups of fruit each day for general health is recommended, but you should eat as many berries as you can tolerate. Free radicals can break down cholesterol that is flowing in your blood and make them sticky so to deposit on the arterial walls of your blood vessels. Fight this with antioxidant rich foods to reduce cholesterol build up.

Eating healthy is one step in boosting heart health and overall cardiovascular health. Exercise is also important in keeping your body strong and vibrant so one can live a healthier longer life.

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Fruit and Vegetable Lightning drink mixes from Natures Plus
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Date: February 06, 2007 02:41 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Fruit and Vegetable Lightning drink mixes from Natures Plus

Enjoy the Rainbow – the Color Wheel of Fruits and Vegetables

 

We’ve all heard the statistics, and have probably seen the signs in the produce section of our favorite grocery store: eating 5 servings of fruits and veggies a day is important,

 

Chances are also pretty good that we’ve also seen the newest food pyramid, encouraging Americans to “eat a rainbow of frits and vegetables.” That is, choose from the rich variety of colors for the best all-around health benefits.

 

In this Ask the Doctor, we’re going to look at the unique health components of different colored fruits and vegetables, and why they’re so important. Plus, we’ll learn about supplemental options, like fruit and vegetable drink mixes, for those days when our diets just aren’t that great.

 

Q. What’s the big deal about fruits and vegetables?

A. Well, for the main reason that they are whole foods – created by nature (or at least generations of farming) and are rich in a variety of nutrients. Processed foods can’t match the health benefits of strawberries or broccoli – items that have fiber, vitamins, and enzymes built right in.

 

Q. What does “eating a rainbow” of fruits and vegetables really mean?

A. This is simply an easy way of remembering to get as much color variety in your diet as possible to maximize your intake of a broad range of nutrients. The colors of fruits and vegetables are often a tangible clue to the unique vitamins and other healthy substances they contain. Getting a variety of colors, therefore, means getting a variety of the essential nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and strong.

 

Enjoying the Rainbow: Fruit and Vegetable Benefits:

Color

Source

Nutrients

Benefits

Red

Tomatoes, Berries, Peppers, Radishes

Lycopene, Anthocyanins, Ellagic Acid, Bioflavonoids including Quercetin, and Hesperidin

Reduces risk of prostate cancer; lowers blood pressure; scavenges harmful free-radicals; reduces tumor growth; reduces LDL cholesterol levels and supports joint tissue in cases of rheumatoid arthritis

Orange/ Yellow

Carrots, Yams, Squash, Papaya

Beta-carotene, Zeaxanthin, Flavonoids, Lycopene, Vitamin C, Potassium

Reduces age-related macular degeneration; lowers LDL (bad) cholesterol; fights harmful free radicals; reduces risk of prostate cancer, lowers blood pressure; promotes collagen formation and healthy joints; encourages alkaline balance and works with magnesium and calcium to build healthy bones

White

Mushrooms, White Tea, Flaxseed/ Pumpkin

Beta-glucan, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), SDG (secoisolariciresinol digulcoside), lignans

Provides powerful immune boosting activity; activates natural-killer cells, B-cells and T-cells; may reduce risk of colon, breast and prostate cancers; boosts immune-supporting T-cell activity; balances hormone levels and may reduce risk of hormone-related cancers

Green

Wheat Grass, Barley Grass, Oat Grass, Kale, Spinach, Cabbage, Alfalfa Sprouts, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens

Chlorophyll, Fiber, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Calcium, Folate, Glucoraphanin, Vitamin C, Calcium, Beta-Carotene

Reduces cancer risks; lowers blood pressure; normalizes digestion time; supports retinal health and reduces risk of cataracts; builds and maintains bone matrix; fights harmful free-radicals; boosts immune system activity; supports vision and lowers LDL cholesterol levels

Purple/ Blue

Blueberries, Pomegranates, Grapes, Elderberries, Eggplant, Prunes

Anthocyanins, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Resveratrol, Vitamin C, Fiber, Flavonoids, ellagic acid, quercetin

May protect brain cells against Alzheimer’s and other oxidative-related diseases; supports retinal health; lowers LDL cholesterol and prevents LDL oxidation; boosts immune system activity and supports healthy collagen and joint tissue; supports healthy digestion; improves calcium and other mineral absorption; fights inflammation; reduces tumor growth; acts as an anticarcinogen in the digestive tract, limits the activity of cancer cells –depriving them of fuel; helps the body fight allergens

 

Q. Can you tell me a little more about the healthy components of fruits and vegetables?

Let’s take a look at some of the most well-studied and important nutrients:

 

Quercetin is found in apples, onions and citrus fruits (also is hawthorn and other berries and apple-related fruits usually used in traditional herbal remedies and modern supplements). It prevents LSL cholesterol oxidation and helps the body cope with allergens and other lung and breathing problems.

 

Clinical studies show that quercetin’s main points of absorption in the body appear to be in the small intestine – about 50%. The rest – at least 47% is metabolized by the colonic micro flora – the beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum. You may consider adding these beneficial bacteria (found in yogurt) either through the diet or a supplemental form.

 

Ellagic Acid is a component of ellagitannins – dietary polyphenols with antioxidant (and possibly anticancer) properties. Polyphenols are the basic building blocks of many plant-based antioxidants. More complex phenolic compounds, such as flavonoids are created from these molecules.

 

Ellagic acid is found in many fruits and foods, namely raspberries, strawberries, pomegranates, and walnuts. Clinical studies suggest that ellagitannins and ellagic acid act as antioxidants and anticarcinogens in the gastrointestinal tract.

 

Ellagitannins are durable antioxidants, and happily, they do not appear to be diminished by processing, like freezing. This means the benefits are still strong, even in frozen packs of raspberries or strawberries, or some of the better multi-ingredient supplement drink mixes.

 

In scientific studies, ellagic acid also showed an anti-proliferative effect on cancer cells, decreasing their ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production. ATP is the molecule that provides the primary energy source for the cells in our bodies. In a sense, ellagic acid seems to deprive cancer cells of their fuel.

 

Beta-Carotene: Probably the best-known of the carotenoids, beta-carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A. Many vegetables, especially orange and yellow varieties, are rich in this nutrient. Think summer squash, yams and of course, carrots.

 

Beta-carotene has long been associated with better eyesight, but it has other benefits, too. In a scientific study, beta-carotene decreased cholesterol levels in the liver by 44% and reduces liver triglycerides by 40%.

 

Lycopene is a carotenoid mostly found in tomatoes, but also in smaller amounts in watermelon and other fruits. Clinical studies have shown that lycopene consumption may decrease the risk of prostate cancer. In fact, high intakes of lycopene are associated with a 30% to 40% reduced risk. And, as good as beta-carotene is, its cousin, lycopene, seems to be an even stronger nutrient, protecting not just against prostate cancer, but heart disease as well.

 

Lutein is found in many fruits and vegetables, including blueberries and members of the squash family. Lutein is important for healthy eyes, and in fact it is found in high concentrations naturally in the macular region of the retina – where we see fine detail. It is one of the only carotenoids, along with its close sibling zeaxanthin, that is found in the macula and lens of the eye.

 

Lutein also supports your heart, too. In a scientific study, lutein reduced atherosclerotic lesion size by 43%. In other words, high intakes of lutein may actually help prevent coronary artery disease!

 

Interestingly, as is the case with lycopene, cooking or processing foods with lutein may actually make it more easily absorbed.

 

In clinical studies, men with high intakes of lutein (and its close cousin, zeaxanthin, found in broccoli and spinach) had a 19% lower risk of cataract, and women had a 22% decreased risk, compared to those whose lutein intakes were much lower.

 

Vitamin C: One of the best-known nutrients out there, vitamin C keeps our immune system strong; speeds wound healing, and promote strong muscles and joints. A free-radical fighter, vitamin C prevents oxidative damage to tissues, builds strength in collagen and connective tissue, and even reduces joint pain.

 

Sources of vitamin C are scattered throughout the spectrum of fruits and vegetables. Oranges and other citrus are the most commonly associated with vitamin C, but it also is present in tomatoes, and to a lesser extent in berries and cherries.

 

Potassium: Most Americans are deficient in potassium. For the most part, it’s hard to get too much of this valuable mineral. Potassium does great things for our hearts. Higher intakes of dietary potassium from fruits and vegetables have been found in clinical research to lower blood pressure in only 4 weeks.

 

Many researchers believe that the typical American diet has led to a state of chronic, low-grade acidosis – too much acid in the body. Potassium helps change pH balance to a more alkaline environment in the body and increases bone density.

 

This was proven in the long-running Framingham Heart Study which showed that dietary potassium, (along with magnesium and fruit and vegetable intake) provided greater bone density in older individuals.

 

Fiber is another food component many just don’t get enough of – especially if they’re eating a “typical American diet.” Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are excellent sources of fiber. However, fiber from a good fruits and vegetable drink mix should be derived from inulin and chicory root. This soluble fiber source not only adds to the overall amount of fiber you need (25 to 38 grams a day), but also provides a nice “nesting ground” for the beneficial bacteria that populate the intestines. And, even though some fiber has a bad rap for inhibiting mineral absorption, inulin and chicory root are “bone building” fibers – they actually help the body absorb calcium.

 

Flavonoids are an overarching term that encompasses flavonols, anthocyanidins, and flavones, isoflavones, proanthocyanidins, Quercetin and more. They are almost everywhere: in fruits, vegetables, grains, herbs, nuts and seeds – even in the coffee, wine and tea we drink. Flavonoids are responsible for the colors in the skins of fruits and the leaves of trees and other plants.

 

Flavonoids have many health benefits. They can help stop the growth of tumor cells and are potent antioxidants. Additionally, flavonoids have also been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation.

 

Anthocyanins: High on the list of important “visible” nutrients are anthocyanins. They color fruits and vegetables blue and red.

 

Anthocyanins are members of this extended family of nutmeats, the flavonoids. Typically found in high amounts in berries, anthocyanins are readily absorbed in the stomach and small intestine.

 

As antioxidants, anthocyanins dive deep into cell membranes, protecting them from damage. IT may be one reason why the anthocyanins from blueberries are considered such an important component in battling neuronal decline, like Alzheimer’s. Blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are also excellent sources of this flavonoids group.

 

SDG lignans, (short for secoisolariciresinol diglucoside) are polyphenolic components of flaxseed, pumpkin and other herbal sources. Much of the recent research surrounding lignans has focused on flaxseed. In scientific and clinical studies, lignans from flaxseed support hormonal balance and may have cancer-preventing abilities. In fact, in one study, flaxseed lignans reduced metastatic lung tumor by 82% compared to controls.

 

The lignans in pumpkin seed, also considered a major source, target 5-alpha reductase activity.

 

This enzyme catalyzes the conversion of testosterone into the more potent dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT, like testosterone, is a steroid hormone or androgen. Androgens are responsible for the development and maintenance of masculine sex characteristics in both men and women. Excess levels of DHT can cause serious problems with prostate or bladder health. That’s why modulation of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme is so important – it helps maintain healthy testosterone and DHT levels. By balancing the levels of these key hormones, pumpkin seed lignans provide protection for prostate and bladder cells.

 

In addition, pumpkin seed has been shown to modulate the enzyme aromatase. Aromatase is present in the estrogen-producing cells of the adrenal glands, ovaries, testicles, adipose tissue, and brain. Aromatase converts testosterone, an androgen, into estradiol, and estrogen.

 

Inhibition of the aromatase conversion can help maintain a balance of healthy testosterone levels in women, which has been shown to strengthen pelvic muscles and reduce incidence of incontinence.

 

In fact, a clinical study, involving a pumpkin extract in conjunction with soy, resulted in significant support for bladder health. After two weeks of supplementation, 23 of the 39 postmenopausal women enrolled in the study showed great improvement in urinary frequency and sleep. By the end of the six week study, 74.4 percent of participants found pumpkin extract safely and significantly improved “nocturnia,” that is, the need to urinate frequently at night. For individuals with 2 to 4 episodes of nocturnia prior to the stud, and 81.8% improvement was seen – also showing great improvement in sleep quality. After all, if you don’t have to wake up every couple of hours to go to the bathroom you’re bound to get better sleep.

 

Beta glucan: Mushrooms are intense immune-boosting powerhouses due to their beta-glucan content. Three well-studied power-house mushrooms that contribute beta glucan to the diet include maitake, reishi and shiitake.

 

The most significant constituents of mushrooms are long chain polysaccharides (molecules formed from many sugar units) known as beta-glucan. These huge molecules act as immunoregualtors in the human body, helping to stabilize and balance the immune system.

 

This includes specific support of white blood cells, or lymphocytes, the primary cells of the immune system. Lymphocytes fall broadly into three categories: T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells.

 

In one clinical study, 165 patients with various types of advanced cancer were given maitake mushroom compounds alone or with chemotherapy. Cancer regression or significant symptom improvement was observed in 58% of liver cancer patients, and 62% of lung cancer patients. Plus, when maitake was taken in addition to chemotherapy, the immune cell activities were enhanced 1.2 to 1.4 times, compared with chemotherapy alone.

 

In another clinical study, researchers determined that Reishi increased the number of cancer killing white blood cells and made them more deadly to cancer cells.

 

And, in a scientific study of human breast cancer and myeloma cancer and myeloma cancer cell lines, shiitake compounds provided a 51% antiproliferative effect on the cells – inducing “apoptosis’ – the programmed cell death that should occur naturally.

 

While beta-glucan are distributed throughout the mushroom body, the beta-glucan concentrations are significantly higher in the mycelium – the interwoven fibers or filaments that make up the “feeding structure” of the mushroom.

 

Bioflavonoids are commonly found in bright yellow citrus fruits, including lemons, limes and oranges. They are responsible for the bright pigment found in the skin of the fruit, and are considered a “companion” to vitamin C, seeming to extend the value of the nutrient within the body.

 

Hesperidin is just one of the valuable bioflavonoids found in citrus. Hesperidin appears to lower cholesterol levels, as well as support joint collagen in examples of rheumatoid arthritis.

 

Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG):

Polyphenols, most notably EGCG, or epigallocatechin gallate, are well-studied and powerful components of tea. EGCG has been shown to reduce colon and breast cancer risk. Green tea also boosts the immune system and encourages T-cell formation – part of the front-line defense of our bodies against sickness and disease.

 

Q. I’ve been seeing articles about fruits, vegetables and supplements touting “high ORAC value.” What does this mean?

ORAC is an acronym for Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity, and is simply a measurement of antioxidant activity of nutrients. Oxygen radicals, or free radicals, are unstable molecules. They grab electrons from other cells to use for themselves, and in the process can damage them. It is believed that free radical activity plays a role in the development of many diseases such as heart disease and cancer, and also plays a role in aging.

 

Antioxidants help prevent this damage by “loaning out” extra electrons to stabilize free radicals/ Consider any fruit or vegetable with a high ORAC rating as having a lot of “antioxidant power.”

 

I know I should eat more fruits and vegetables, but it just seems so hard to get five servings a day.

The number one excuse I hear for not buying frits and veggies is that “fruits and vegetables are too expensive.” But are they really? Certainly, fresh foods that aren’t in season and have to be shipped a distance can be a bit pricey. If anyone added up how much spend on fast food, or prepackaged or processed snacks, it would probably be shocking.

 

Luckily, there are many ways to get your “Daily 5”. For instance, frozen fruits and veggies retain much of their nutrient profile. They can be an excellent alternative when certain foods are out of season. So too, are fruit and vegetable drink mixes – excellent supplemental sources of some of the nutrients our bodies need most.

 

More recently, the American Institute of Cancer Research discovered a reason many adults don’t eat their vegetables is – I’m not making this up – “a fear of flatulence.”

 

Of course, for people not accustomed to the fiber in fruits and veggies, there is some reason to think it’ll increase gas. When cell walls break down, and fiber passes through the system, it can create flatulence. Folks who eat fruits and vegetables every day generally don’t have this problem. Their systems are already accustomed to it.

 

For those just starting out on a better diet, however, start slowly – it helps your body adapt. Cooking vegetables can help, too, because it begins breaking down the cell walls early on.

 

One thing is certain, however. The “Typical American Diet” and good health are mutually exclusive. The increase in type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high cholesterol, and hypertension all point to the abuse our bodies suffer by eating diets high in fatty meats, processed sugars, and refined grains.

 

Q. Can I just drink fruit and vegetables drinks in place of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables?

Green drinks and fruit and vegetable drink mixes aren’t meant to replace whole foods, but they can be an excellent substitute when you’re rushed or traveling or just trying to fill everyday nutritional gaps. Their whole food ingredients absorb very easily and gently in the gut, and many of these drink mixes contain healthy doses of fiber, too.

 

Green drink mixes and food-based drink mixes combine many colorful fruits and vegetables and sometimes grasses in a healthy, mixable supplement assortment. While there have been many advancements in the field of green drinks, there are only a few that take the primary reason we eat into consideration: taste!

 

Happily, there are some companies out there with great-tasting drink mixes that also formulate based on the color concept, ensuring you get the broadest assortment of nutrients from a full range of fruit and vegetable colors to promote optimal health.

 

High-quality fruit and vegetable drink mixes offer the best from nature’s color wheel in a convenient and great-tasting supplement. So, the next tie you feel like taking a coffee break – try a fruit and veggie break instead. Your body and spirit will thank you.

 

 



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Enjoy Some Nuts Every Day
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Date: November 03, 2006 04:00 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Enjoy Some Nuts Every Day

Although high in fat, nuts contain oils that reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Nuts also contain potentially cardio protective components including phytosterols, tocopherols and squalene. walnuts, almonds, pecans, Brazil nuts and macadamia nuts were all found to be good sources of these compounds. Diets that included one or two servings of macadamia nuts a day have been shown in studies done in Brisbane Australia and Honolulu Hawaii to improve blood lipid profiles as effectively as low-fat, complex carbohydrate diets. Furthermore, scientists at the Harvard School of Public Health found that eating nuts and peanut butter reduced the risk of type II diabetes in women. The researchers suggest that nuts might replace refined grain products, and red or processed meats as a way to limit caloric intake.

The Lowly Goober Gets New Respect

Americans eat more peanuts and peanut butter than all other nuts combined. A Pennsylvania State University study of 13,000 men, women and children revealed that peanut eaters have higher intakes of several hard-to-get nutrients compared to those who did not consume peanuts. Peanut butter and peanut eaters have increased levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, folate, Calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron and phytonutrients resveratrol, beta sitosterol and p-courmaric acid. What’s more, peanut eaters also had leaner bodies than non peanut eaters. This study helps to dispel the myth that higher-fat foods automatically lead to weight gain.

The peanut Butter Diet evolved from studies such as this that showed the benefits of eating peanuts and peanut butter, particularly their high satiety factor. In one small study, ten health workers aged fifty-plus, consumed 1500 calories healthy and moderate fat (35%) diet that included two tablespoons of peanut butter eaten twice a day. The woman had at least one cardiovascular risk factor – high blood pressure, altered blood lipids or diabetes. Peanut butter was chosen because previous studies at Harvard/Brigham Women’s hospital had shown that over an eighteen-month period, three times as many women stuck with a diet that included peanut butter or peanuts, because of a hunger curbing effects.

Peanuts contain about 2 grams of fiber per tablespoon and when spread on two slices of whole-wheat bread, deliver six grams of fiber. Peanut butter makes some yummy sauces. The barbecued ribs a group of scientists and I prepared during a recent weekend at the Culinary Institute of America Greystone in California’s Napa Valley where the best I have ever eaten.

Tropical Oils

The term refers to coconut, palm kernel and palm oils. These oils contain a variety of fatty acids, but unlike olive, macadamia and peanut oils, which contain high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and are liquid at room temperature; tropical oils have high levels of saturated fats and are solid at room temperature. They are gaining popularity as food manufacturers push to replace hydrogenated oils that contain trans fats. The latest hoopla over coconut oil has been its inclusion in weight loss regimens. Two books featuring coconut products have hit bestseller lists. Moderate increase of tropical oils including coconut and palm appear to improve blood lipid profiles largely because of their high lauric acid content.

The health benefits of medium chain triglycerides (MCTs) such as caprylic and lauric have been known for some time. Lauric acid has been found to improve blood lipids and red palm oil is rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene and tocotrienols, the vitamin E active constituent. However, there is concern among some experts that eating to many saturated fats, including the tropical oils used to make trans fat free margarine and shortening, can have deleterious effects on cardiovascular health.

In addition, there are differences in processing palm and palm kernel oils that make some choices unhealthy. According to Dr. Andrew Weil palm oil is a better choice than palm kernel oil because chemical solvents are needed to extract palm kernel oil while none are required to press the oil from palm fruit. Fractionation is used to process palm and palm kernel oil and eliminates many of their natural antioxidants, which makes them the least desirable of the tropical oils. It seems prudent to check ingredient labels for fractionated palm kernel oil and avoid it. Best of all, look for Now Organic Coconut Oil that has an impressive resume for boosting immunity. It also has a distinctive flavor to foods prepared with an eastern Indian theme.

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Is Fish Oil good for my heart?
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Date: October 25, 2005 02:59 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Is Fish Oil good for my heart?

I know that fish oil is good for my heart, but I was told I should also consume fish to protect my bones. Is there any truth to that?

Many people are familiar with the literature that omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. Animal studies, and now recent human studies, suggest a role in bone health as well, particularly in relation to omega-6 fatty acids. A long-term study in California tracked the ratio of dietary omega-6 fats to omega-3s in relation to bone-mineral density in middle- and older-age individuals. They tested BMD by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry—the gold standard for assessing bone loss—and found that the higher the ratio of linoleic acid (omega-6) to alpha-linolenic acid(omega-3), the lower the BMD. These results were independent of age, body mass index and various lifestyle factors.

The ratios creating problems were in the range of 7 to 1 and 8 to 1 of omega-6s to omega-3s. Foods high in omega-6 (or with a high omega-6 and omega-3 ratio) are corn, safflower, sunflower, soybean, and cottonseed oils. One of the best sources of omega-3 is fatty, cold-water fish such as salmon. The best vegetarian source is flax oil. In addition, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, canola oil (I recommend cold-pressed and unrefined), and some dark, leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, purslane, mustard greens and collards do have some omega-3s.

Also, available is a dry fish oil Vectomega by Europharma, if you do not want to take an oil softgel then give vectomega a try.



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Best Bread ...
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Date: June 13, 2005 07:30 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Best Bread ...

Best Breads by Jane Lane Energy Times, December 9, 1999

Few of us can resist the seductions of freshly baked bread, warm and fragrant, poised on the edge of a steaming bowl of soup or painted with an aromatic swath of rosemary scented oil. Even those of us from the most culinary challenged households can recall the pleasures of the simple plump white dinner roll or flaky biscuit piled in a basket on the dinner table.

Bread has blossomed from sideshow status beside the dinner plate to a full-scale mealtime headliner, a scrumptious star enriched by nutritious grains, herbs, fruits and vegetables.

Contemporary cooks build meals around crunchy cornbread or chewy focaccia, presenting soups or salads as satisfying counterpoints. Want to jump into the bread baking basket or hone your skills? Two top vegetarian chefs shared with Energy Times their passion for bread and their expertise in baking. See if you don't find that ardor contagious.

Nancy Lazarus is a chef at the famed Moosewood Restaurant in Ithaca, New York, established in 1973 to serve up natural fare with a homecooked, vegetarian emphasis. The bill of fare changes daily at Moosewood, but there's one constant: a cup or bowl of soup, a salad and a thick slice of bread. Some loyal customers have ordered the daily special for 20 years.

That's why bread occupies a cherished spot at Moosewood. Nancy Lazarus tells why and offers some of Moosewood's favorite bread recipes: "Cooking is like art; baking is like science; bread is like magic. No matter how much science you apply, you'll never have complete control: It'll do its own thing on some level, which is part of its charm, if you're charmed by that sort of thing. Breads come out differently depending on heat and humidity, the heat of the oven; yeast is a variable that can be slower or faster acting.

"There are bread machines, of course, and they work. But they're not as satisfying as the real thing, the kneading, which can be almost therapeutic, and the control over the ingredients to your own specifications.

"Bread is not that difficult. Know your own oven, to begin: Good insulation is important and how the heat travels around inside. Convection ovens are a wonderful thing.

"There are difficult breads we recommend you buy at a good bakery: baguettes, Italian, French and Cuban that are crusty outside and soft inside.

"But focaccia is easy. It's a yeasted bread that's better to make at home than buy because it's so fresh and you can control the toppings. It only requires one slow and one quick rising but you have to be there for a while.

"Then there are quick breads that use baking soda or powder, like cornbread. If you want a good meal at home and can make only one thing, make a quick bread. They're satisfying and delicious warm from the oven; and the aroma of bread fills the house. A corn bread with tomato soup for supper is a nurturing meal good for vegans.

"Popovers are fast and simple, a middle American 50s treat, but you do need a hot oven and 45 minutes. Also easy to make: sweet breads- carrot, banana, zucchini-and biscuits.

"To reduce the fat in denser quickbreads and cakes, use applesauce. It gives body and moistness.

"The number of wheat-sensitive people is rising dramatically. A theory I think makes sense is that in the last 30 years the varieties of wheat grown has been reduced to 1 or 2 that are more easily cultivated and harvested with the machinery available. People are overloaded with one type of wheat.

"Gluten is the offending substance in wheat and some oats; try rice, tapioca and potato flours, which are denser and more fine and don't produce a good crust. Improve the crust by baking in a preheated cast iron skillet.

"Also investigate chickpea flour. You don't make a loaf of bread with it- use it for flatbreads like papadam, which is in Indian cookbooks. And it's good for batter for vegetables.

"Spelt is the closest to wheat flour in consistency but some people can be sensitive to it.

"Visit a natural food store to check out the flours. The mills sometimes print handouts with recipes and a lot of those are real good, especially for what works with their flour. Or you may run into a baker who will whet your appetite with ideas and recipes.

"Bread is the supreme comfort food. It can speak to us, and reassure us. The magic of bread and how it varies: There's something appealing in that. In today's world, food is predictable, and that's reassuring to some people. At Moosewood, things are always different, and that's good."

Claire Criscuolo puts an intensely personal spin on the eclectically ethnic style of cooking at her esteemed vegetarian restaurant, Claire's Corner Copia. That 25-year-old institution in New Haven, Connecticut, reflects her zest for the freshest ingredients, robust flavors and inspired combinations. Claire, a teacher and advocate for healthful cuisine, pours her passion into her breadmaking as well:

"Healthy bread is like anything else-it has healthy ingredients. We use the best organic unbleached flour and yeast, pure vanilla, whole eggs (not dried and powdered), whole milk and organic sour cream. You want to use good, fresh ingredients. It's the essence of healthy cooking. "I tell my staff, 'Don't use your soup pot as a garbage pail. Bread is the same. If the ingredients aren't at their freshest for serving, then they aren't right for other uses in the kitchen.

"Our bread is very important at Claire's. We make a country white and a honey wheat in a pinwheel loaf-400 a day-and challah for the morning French toast with sauteed bananas or as buns for veggie burgers. "It's not practical to bake bread every day. We let our bread rise several times, punching it down again and again. For the home cook, it's time consuming. Even I'm happy to buy a good loaf of bread. "But anybody can bake bread. Combine flour, water and yeast and watch it grow! It's delights all your senses. And it a gratifies and satisfies. I was kneading it all by hand until we got up to 12 loaves a day.

"I love a good oatmeal molasses bread; a whole wheat bread with walnuts, rosemary and finely chopped sweet onion sauteed in olive oil for a roasted vegetable sandwich; or an anadama bread with split pea soup.

"Bread is part of a meal. It requires time and effort, but I can't think of many things worthwhile that don't."



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Hearty Soy - Soy will cater to your cardiovascular well-being...
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Date: June 13, 2005 10:19 AM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Hearty Soy - Soy will cater to your cardiovascular well-being...

Hearty Soy by Joyce Dewon Energy Times, January 5, 2004

It's a diet food, it's a health food. Any way you look at it or eat it, soy's combination of benefits and its versatility as a component of a heart-healthy diet have led to a widespread popularity that continues to grow.

No matter what your taste preference, a soy food is available to satisfy your picky palate and cater to your cardiovascular well-being.

Annual sales of soy in the US continue to grow more than 10% a year, edging toward the $4 billion mark. Today, the average American consumes about 10 mg of soy protein a day, even though the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends taking in at least 25 mg of soy to benefit your heart. Even the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has signaled its approval of the soy bandwagon, allowing claims that daily soy can help lower the risk of cardiovascular complications.

As Good as a Drug

Researchers who have investigated how soy can help lower cholesterol and shrink the risk of heart disease have concluded that soy, in a diet with fruits and vegetables, can be as effective as cholesterol-reducing drugs (JAMA 7/22/03).

Researchers at the University of Toronto and St. Michael's Hospital compared the cholesterol-lowering power of soy and other vegetarian foods with that of lovastatin, a standard pharmaceutical used to reduce cholesterol.

In the study, scientists fed people a diet that, along with soy, had large amounts of nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, and high-fiber foods like oats and barley plus margarine made with plant sterols (natural substances derived from leafy greens and vegetable oils). Researcher David Jenkins, PhD, a nutrition science professor, thinks these foods may be good at dropping cholesterol because human evolution makes us well-adapted for an "ape diet," one high in fiber, vegetable protein, nuts and plant sterols.

According to Dr. Jenkins, "As we age, we tend to get raised cholesterol, which in turn increases our risk of heart disease. This study shows that people now have a dietary alternative to drugs to control their cholesterol, at least initially." Dr. Jenkins also thinks that soy and a vegetarian diet can be used to maintain normal cholesterol levels.

Soy Meals

Dr. Jenkins' heart-healthy diet, designed to be easily prepared and consumed, includes oat bran bread and cereal, soy drinks, fruit and soy deli slices. For instance, in his study, a typical dinner consisted of tofu baked with eggplant, onions and sweet peppers, pearled barley and vegetables.

Dr. Jenkins adds, "The Food and Drug Administration has approved these cholesterol-lowering foods as having legitimate health claims for heart disease risk reduction. They're also being recommended by the American Heart Association and the National Cholesterol Education Program as foods that should be incorporated into the diet. And we have now proven that these foods have an almost identical effect on lowering cholesterol as the original cholesterol-reducing drugs."

Dr. Jenkins regrets that health practitioners often give drugs to people with high cholesterol instead of trying to control the problem with soy and other vegetarian foods.

Soy Safety Affirmed

Recently, some doctors have spread the story that soy may increase the risk of cancer because natural chemicals in soy act like estrogens, hormones that may contribute to breast and other cancers. However, research has failed to support this supposition.

As Dr. Jenkins points out, "the concerns have been whether soy estrogen might lead to hormone-dependent breast cancer or abnormal sexual development in children, yet we found no evidence to support this."

In another of Dr. Jenkins' studies, people were put on diets high in soy to see how their estrogen levels were affected. Then, the researchers measured estrogen byproducts in their urine. Since estrogen stimulates breast cancer cells to produce a special protein, the researchers measured the amount of this protein produced by each urine sample to calculate how much estrogen was present.

The total estrogenic activity in the urine of women on soy dropped to lower levels than it had been before they ate soy. "This finding suggests that soy may not have the estrogenic effects that were thought to alleviate menopausal symptoms but it refutes claims about its purported hormone risks," Dr. Jenkins says.

The study also demonstrated that soy can reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering levels of oxidized cholesterol, which is thought to stick to coronary artery walls and form dangerous plaques. Dr. Jenkins' other research demonstrates that soy consumption reduces cholesterol in general while also decreasing the amount of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the body and maintaining the HDL (good) cholesterol. According to Dr. Jenkins, this confirms that soy should be promoted for its important role in preventing heart disease without fear that it will promote cancer.

In another study in China, researchers compared the dietary habits of more than 350 women with breast cancer to the foods eaten by more than 1,000 women who did not have cancer (Amer Assoc Canc Res Second Annual Intl Conf Fron Can Prev Res 10/27/03, Abst 1274). They found that eating large amounts of soy did not raise the risk of breast cancer.

Of course, anyone can develop allergies to almost any food, soy included. If eating soy causes you discomfort, find another source of healthy protein (see box on whey protein above).

Isoflavone Benefit

Isoflavones, soy's plant estrogens, are believed to create some of the most significant heart-healthy soy benefits. Consequently, researchers urge those concerned about their cardiovascular health to combine a diet high in soy, fruits and vegetables with exercise for the highest level of heart protection. Cheaper than cholesterol drugs, tastier than many other healthy foods and available in so many forms, soy's popularity will certainly continue to explode. Soy burgers, soy drinks and soy just-about-everything will continue to be a big part of our lives.



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The Science of Healthy Hair
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Date: June 10, 2005 03:44 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: The Science of Healthy Hair

The Science of Healthy Hair

by Susan Weiner Energy Times, January 5, 2002

From the strength-giving mane of Sampson to the magically long locks of Rapunzel, hair has had the power to captivate since biblical times. Today, its lure is just as compelling and hair remains an important form of self-expression and self-image. A healthy head of hair is more than an asset to your appearance. A hairstyle can reflect a mood, an attitude or a personal style, while unkempt hair may reveal the status of one's emotional or physical health. Even a "good" hair day vs. a "bad" hair day can significantly determine how your frame of mind takes shape. We can't always control the frizz factor or the humid weather that makes our curls fall flat, but many natural approaches are available to allow us to put our best looking follicle forward. Whether your hair is sleek and stylish, long and slinky, spiky punk rock-hip or wash-and-wear, botanical-based products and proper nutrition can bring out the very best in your locks.

Don't Fool Mother Nature

No matter how often you cut, dye, perm or blow-dry your hair, Mother Nature, with the help of your DNA, has blessed you with a quite specific quality and quantity of hair. Styling may work to change the appearance of your hair, but nothing can change your genetics. Every hair on your body, from the soft down on your arms to the coarser, longer hairs on your head, grows from a cell-lined indentation called a follicle. The hair follicle consists of three cylinders; the central cylinder determines whether your hair is straight, wavy or curly. Each hair shaft alternately grows or goes into a dormant phase. "At any one time, approximately fifteen percent of the one hundred thousand or so hairs on the head are resting, while the rest are growing or lengthening," say Arthur Balin, MD, PhD, and Loretta Pratt Balin, MD (The Life of the Skin: What It Hides, What It Reveals, and How It Communicates, Bantam). Hair constantly comes and goes, falling out consistently even when it is healthy. Consequently, a normal head can shed up to one hundred resting-phase hairs a day. When hair is subjected to harsh chemicals and treatment, even more may fall out. If you're concerned with hair loss, gently pull on a small section of hair; if fewer than five hairs come out, hair loss is within normal range.

What's Your Type?

Normal hair is an elusive commodity in these stressed-out days of over-washed, over-dried and chemically treated hair. If your tresses look frizzy, tangle easily or generally lack moisture, they're probably dry. Dry hair lacks the proper oil content to maintain an ample sheen and is usually dull-looking. To gain back a natural shine, cut back on shampooing and use a natural conditioner formulated for dry hair. Look for essential oils such as jojoba, evening primrose, blue chamomile, and white camellia, and B vitamins (such as panthenol) and aloe vera, suggests Aubrey Hampton, founder of Aubrey Organics. Drinking plenty of water, eating a diet that's not ultra-low in fats and using a humidifier may also help improve dull-looking dry hair, points out David E. Bank, MD (Beautiful Skin: Every Woman's Guide to Looking Her Best at Any Age, Adams Media). (Excessively dry hair may be a significant sign of metabolic disease. If you don't notice a marked improvement in your scalp after taking measures to improve dry hair, or your hair is abnormally dry, consult your health practitioner to see if stronger cures should be implemented.)

Too Much Oil

Hair that appears greasy within 24 hours after shampooing is oily. In that case, try gentle shampoos and herbal rinses with essential oils including quillaya bark, amino acids mixed with saponins, non-coloring henna and peppermint. For an oily scalp and dry ends, condition only the ends. Styling products should be oil-free. For thin or flyaway hair, products with natural thickening agents such as panthenol can help pump up the volume. Color treated and damaged hair can benefit from sulfur-containing amino acids; check your natural foods store for hair care products that contain horsetail, coltsfoot and cysteine. Tea tree oil products are effective when you are trying to control dandruff and a problem scalp.

The Must-To-Avoids

If the label lists sodium lauryl sulfate, steer clear, warns Hampton. And, says Dr. Bank, sodium C-14-16 olefin sulfonate, a harsh chemical found in cheap shampoos, is the worst of the worst when it comes to offensive hair care ingredients. "You also need to watch out for sodium chloride-table salt-in the ingredient list. It's a cheap ingredient to thicken shampoo and strips the hair of oils."

Feed Your Head

To optimize shine and fullness, improve your nutrition, says Bruce Miller, MD, author of The Nutrition Guarantee (Summit Publishing Group). "Good nutrition is as essential to healthy, attractive hair as it is to clear, glowing skin," notes Dr. Miller. "Your hair directly reflects your care and feeding of it." Your hair consists of about 97% protein, containing nineteen of the twenty-two amino acids that form protein, explains Dr. Miller. If you skimp on quality protein, your hair may reflect this amino acid imbalance by breaking, cracking and splitting. Hair follicles pass on the nutrients you consume, nourishing the new cells that form the growing hair shaft. As the hair gradually pushes upward, the shaft is continually lubricated by the busy sebaceous glands. For a smoother transition through the shaft and undamaged hair, lecithin provides a welcome dose of lubrication, as well as the important B vitamins choline and inositol, vital to healthy hair. In fact, the B vitamins are crucial to the growth of full bodied, healthy hair. The B complex strengthens, forms and smoothes the hair shafts, and helps maintain an even hair color, even warding off the beginning of gray hair. For thick and shiny hair, vitamin A works in conjunction with the B vitamins. Zinc can strengthen the hair shafts by thickening them. Thicker and stronger hair shafts increase your chances of holding on to your hair and suffering fewer lost hairs. When it comes to hair retention, genetics count. The more hair your parents retained, the greater your chance of keeping yours.

Think Diet

If you're interested in optimal hair health, think nutrition. Eating for the sake of your curls is a lot like eating for overall health: plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy grains and lean sources of protein, including tofu and other soy-based foodstuffs. To support healthy hair, some experts advocate foods high in biotin, including brown rice, brewer's yeast, bulgur, green peas, lentils, oats, soybeans, sunflower seeds and walnuts. The natural phytochemicals in green tea may aid hair, while ginkgo biloba improves circulation to the scalp. Don't forget your daily vitamins and be sure to take an iron and B12 supplement.

Chinese Treatment

Herbs from China show great promise for helping hair. He Shou Wu, made from Polygoni multiflori (the eastern wild rose), is reputed by devotees to restore color, slow hair loss, and help hair grow back. In Chinese medicine, this botanical has been used as an adaptogen to boost overall health and longevity. Within the context of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), He Shou Wu is supposed to strengthen the liver and kidney meridians and support healthy blood. Many Asians use the herb to promote higher levels of qi, the TCM concept that encompasses your life's overall energy.

Show a Little Tenderness

Long-term exposure to sunlight and seawater can damage hair, as can combing or brushing wet hair. Treat your hair with kid gloves, use natural products that are gentle on hair, and avoid chemical treatments. If you're looking to lose weight, avoid crash diets; a sudden drop in nutrition can cause deficiencies and lead to hair damage and loss. Keeping a wonderful head of hair means staying ahead of the curve with proper nutrition, the right supplements and a continuous program of TLC. In that way, you can maintain the crowning head of hair you've always coveted.



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Take it to Heart - Lower Cholesterol
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Date: June 09, 2005 06:05 PM
Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Take it to Heart - Lower Cholesterol

Take it to Heart by Dawn Lemonathen Energy Times, January 2, 2002

Lifestyle is key to bettering your odds of beating heart disease. A few simple, everyday heart-friendly habits can help your heart help you. Right now, heart attacks and other cardiovascular complications like stroke have reached sky-high levels across the US.

Nearly 60 million Americans suffer from one of the various forms of cardiovascular disease and these often fatal complications cause more than 40% of all deaths in the United States. Statistics show that nearly a million Americans succumb to heart problems every year. The humongous cost: Heart disease and stroke consume almost $260 billion annually. Heart disease is the top cause of death for older Americans and remains the leading cause of death for all Americans age 35 and older. Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as ischemic heart disease, is the most frequent cause of death for adults in the United States-accounting for more than 500,000 deaths a year. And even though most women have had their consciousness raised about their risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer, in fact, their chances of dying from one of the forms of heart disease is double their risk of succumbing to one of the forms of cancer. And ten times more women die from cardiovascular problems than die from breast cancer.

Aging Genes
Admittedly, a portion of your risk of heart problems is linked to your genetic makeup. Heart disease is often prevalent in particular families. Plus, as you grow older, your risk simultaneously grows. Nevertheless, many heart-saving lifestyle factors are under your control:

  • * Exercise: A steady program of moderately strenuous aerobic exercise can significantly improve the health of your cardiovascular system. (Consult your health practitioner if you haven't exercised in a long time.) Experts figure that exercise alone, independent of other risk factors, cuts your risk of heart attack and stroke by at least half.
  • * Food that you eat: The heart-healthiest diets consistently stay away from fatty meats. To protect your heart, eat plenty of fish that isn't fried plus plenty of fruits and vegetables and antioxidant nutrients (also see the story starting on page 29). Despite the importance of this dietary advice, only one of five Americans is currently devouring the recommended five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
  • * Blood pressure: Have your pressure checked periodically and ask your health practitioner about bringing it under control (see page 34). Despite the importance of this advice, only about half of all Americans with high blood pressure are having it treated.
  • * Cholesterol: Have your cholesterol checked and consult your health practitioner about the levels of your HDLs (good cholesterol) and LDLs (bad cholesterol).
  • * Smoking: Give up this habit or never start. Smoking doubles your risk of heart attack. One of five deaths from cardiovascular disease, almost 200,000 deaths a year, are smoking-related. Despite the dangers of smoking (it also increases your chances of cancer and other health problems), on average, about 3,000 teens get hooked on tobacco every day of the year.
  • * Your weight: Keep your weight down to a reasonable level. Experts figure that every pound you gain raises your risk for cardiovascular disease. In our fast food nation, studies show that about three of five US adults are now overweight.
  • * Diabetes: If you already have diabetes, work with your health practitioner to control your blood sugar (exercise helps). Diabetes significantly raises your risk of cardiovascular problems. The sooner you start doing something to lower your heart disease risk, the better your chances of staying heart-healthy. Women should be especially vigilant. When women develop heart problems, they are often unaware of the problem and their bodies do not cope with it as well as men's do. Because women and their health practitioners are not as aware of the heart risks in women, cardiovascular problems are often not noted in women until they have advanced; by then treatment is often less effective (www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/cvd/cvdaag.htm). Consequently, they run a much larger risk of dying within the first year of their first heart attack than do men. Plus, their chances of suffering a second heart attack within six years is also greater.

    Cholesterol and Heart Health
    Controlling cholesterol (as mentioned before), the fat-like material running around your blood that can block arteries, is considered crucial for protecting your cardiovascular system. A new tool in the cholesterol battle is a natural substance known as potassium hydrogen d-glucarate, a chemical which your body makes and is found in fruits and vegetables. Studies on research animals have shown that potassium hydrogen d-glucarate can lower blood cholesterol, even lowering LDL ("bad" cholesterol) by more than a third. Noni, made from a tropical fruit, is another natural substance attracting attention as a possible helper for heart health and other chronic conditions. Traditionally, noni has been used to treat a wide variety of problems, including intestinal difficulties and arthritis. While some researchers are looking into its anticancer properties, it is reputed to help lower blood pressure and function as an adaptogen, boosting the body's ability to resist infection and deal with stress.

    Nuts and Heart Health
    Back in the early days of nutritional advice for heart health, some experts recommended against eating nuts: After all, they are high in fat and it was thought that high fat diets could compromise the function of your cardiovascular system. However, studies of people who go nuts for nuts and who eat walnuts, cashews, pecans, macadamias, pistachios, almonds and more found these nut lovers suffer less heart disease than non-nut consumers. Part of the good news about nuts, researcher believe, derives from the mineral magnesium found in nuts (and also contained in leafy green vegetables, legumes and whole grains). A magnesium deficiency may contribute to heart problems. In addition, the fats in nuts are monounsaturated, the same kind of heart-healthy fats found in canola and olive oils. Within nuts are also found a good deal of fiber, flavonoids and other natural substances that seem to protect the heart and arteries. Consequently, research indicates that if you eat nuts every weekday you may reduce your risk of heart problems by about two-thirds (Nut Rev, 2001;59:103-111). Of course nuts aren't the only vegetarian way to stay heart healthy. Foods such as oatmeal which are rich in soluble fiber, fiber that can be dissolved in water, also may lower your cholesterol. In addition, plant compounds known as sterols can improve your cardiovascular well-being. Researchers have been looking at these natural chemicals for the last 50 years and have found that they can significantly drop cholesterol (Am J CLin Nut 1995;61:392-396).

    Vegetarianism vs Heart Disease
    A vegetarian diet, in general, conveys more health benefits than eating meat. (Though fish, which contain heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, also lowers the risk of circulatory disorders.) In addition, mushrooms are attracting more attention from researchers as possible sources of heart-helping compounds. In Japan, for instance, health practitioners use the maitake mushroom for treating high blood pressure and lowering cholesterol. (If you suffer from cardiovascular abnormalities, consult your health practitioner.) Maitake has already established a growing reputation for possibly fighting cancer (Cancer Prev 9/30/95;768:243-245). Adjusting to the latest advice on protecting your heart doesn't require radical changes in lifestyle. A touch of exercise, a spattering of heart-healthy nutrients: Before you know it, you can be headed down cardio road and heir to a cardiovascular system that systematically functions better than ever.



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    TopPreviousNext

    Date: May 09, 2005 06:10 PM
    Author: Darrell Miller (dm@vitanetonline.com)

    It's in the Blood

    Natural alternatives abound for managing cholesterol levels, backed by a growing body of research ©VR By Paul Bubny

    The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) last July lowered the threshold for considering the use of statin drugs—a move which some say was motivated more by profits than scientific evidence. For example, the Center for Science in the Public Interest pointed out that eight of the nine authors behind the new recommendations had financial ties to statin manufacturers, which stand to reap billions of dollars more from a category that grossed $14 billion in the U.S. last year. And though the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in January decided against authorizing over-the-counter (OTC) sales of statin drugs, drug companies would still like to see this happen.

    “The medical establishment’s pushing of these drugs to becoming the number one category of prescribed drugs in the world has led them to keep lowering the total cholesterol number that triggers the drug recommendation,” said Neil E. Levin, C.C.N., D.A.N.L.A., nutrition educator, product formulator, and “Truth Advocate” for NOW Foods (Bloomingdale, IL), which produces a number of supplements for addressing cholesterol. “This is despite the lack of evidence that total cholesterol means much as regards cardiovascular risks.

    “Other tests are much more important in terms of predicting risks, including CRP (C-reactive protein), the balance of different cholesterol fractions, and homocysteine,” he continued. “Add adult-onset diabetes to the risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD).”

    At the same time, the allegation that enormous sales potential lay behind the lower threshold for prescribing statin drugs illustrates how widespread the problem of hypercholesterolemia (elevated total cholesterol) is. More than 100 million Americans have elevated cholesterol (total cholesterol values of 200 mg/dl and higher), and of these, more than a third have high cholesterol (levels of 240 mg/dl and higher), according to the American Heart Association. Those numbers have unfavorable implications for the incidence of CVD, as high cholesterol is considered a risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke.

    While statin drugs haven’t garnered the same degree of negative publicity that COX-2 inhibitors have suffered lately, safety concerns have arisen nonetheless. For one thing, these drugs lower the liver’s production of coenzyme Q10 (coQ10) along with its production of cholesterol. “CoQ10 is related to energy production and immune functions, is an antioxidant, and [is] an important cardiovascular nutrient,” Levin said. “It is not good to lower one’s coQ10 levels by half!”

    Moreover, said Levin, statins increase the tendency of muscle tissues to break down. “Combined with inactivity or certain drugs, this can stimulate muscle wasting,” he said. “Muscle is where a good deal of calories are burned, so a loss of muscle could affect mobility and energy production, potentially adding to obesity problems. These muscle changes occurred in patients and persisted for years after treatment was discontinued, as shown by muscle biopsies, even if no obvious muscle problems were observed by the patients.”

    And the last word on the subject may not have been spoken. Predicted Dr. Frank King, Jr. president of King Bio Natural Medicine (Asheville, NC), “Once the appropriate studies are finished, these drugs, along with hypertensives, will hit the fan bigger than the COX-2 inhibitors.”

    Also looking toward the future, Levin said that of the 20 million Americans who will be “targeted” for statin drug prescriptions under the new NCEP guidelines, “Some of these will want to try natural methods first. Others will rebel at the side effects of the drugs and experiment with alternative products.”

    King and Levin both saw opportunity for natural products in the fallout from drug safety concerns, with King projecting that sales of his company’s cholesterol-related homeopathic remedies will double in 2005. “The reports of deaths from drugs will always overshadow the trumped-up studies and news reports blasting dietary supplements,” said Levin. “Vioxx knocked vitamin E off the media’s radar screens pretty rapidly, though we still see ignorant reporters citing that [Johns Hopkins] vitamin E analysis as if it were true. But the comparable safety of supplements means that open-minded people will want to at least try natural therapies before signing in to a lifetime of drug therapies. Meanwhile, the studies on natural products will continue to build our credibility.”

    Those studies keep coming in, with at least four major findings published in the past few months, plus a heart-health claim on walnuts authorized by FDA. They join a raft of earlier findings that link natural products—branded and otherwise—to healthy cholesterol levels.

    "Blur of Products"

    With so many natural alternatives to cholesterol drugs available, it can be hard to keep track. “As with any other category, the blur of products as they cascade over several shelves means that the retailer needs to have a good sense of what works and what they want to recommend to their customers,” Levin said. “Really, each person needs a protocol that would include antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, herbs, and oils. The pre-mixed cholesterol support formulas are a good starting place.”

    To help retailers get a sense of “what works,” here is an alphabetical discussion of several nutrients that have demonstrated benefits in serum cholesterol levels. They include the following:

    Barley may help lower cholesterol, according to a report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2004, vol.80, no.5: 1185-1193). Twenty-five adults with mild hypercholesterolemia consumed a controlled diet low in total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol for 19 weeks. They then added whole-grain products containing barley to their diets that contained low (0 g), medium (3 g), or high (6 g) amount of beta-glucan per day for five weeks. Total cholesterol was reduced by 4 percent 9 percent, and 10 percent, respectively. The diet with the highest amount of beta-glucan led to a decrease in LDL cholesterol of 17 percent.

    Chromium. There’s evidence, Levin said, that chromium in doses of 500 mg a day may decrease levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL, the so-called “bad” cholesterol) and total cholesterol while raising levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good” cholesterol). At the annual meeting of the American College of Nutrition last October, a poster presentation on the safety of Benicia, CA-based InterHealth Nutraceuticals’ ChromeMate niacin-bound chromium won first prize; among other things, the presentation cited chromium’s role in maintaining healthy blood lipid levels.

    Fatty Acids. The latest in a long line of studies demonstrating the benefits of fatty acids in heart health is a study published in The International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics in December 2004. It showed that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, can restore normal blood vessel function in children with inherited high cholesterol. The study, which used Martek DHA produced from microalgae, concluded that restoration of normal blood vessel function has the “potential for preventing the progression of early coronary heart disease in high-risk children.”

    “The evidence continues to accumulate on the cardiovascular benefits of DHA for people of all ages,” said Henry “Pete” Linsert, Jr., chairman and CEO of Martek Biosciences, an ingredient supplier based in Columbia, MD. “This study clearly indicates that DHA played an important role in healthy blood vessel function in the children in this study.”

    On the Omega-Research.com Website maintained by fish oil manufacturer Nordic Naturals (Watsonville, CA) can be found summaries of several earlier studies linking omega-3 fatty acids to maintaining healthy blood lipid levels, as well as related benefits such as elasticity of the arteries. In a 2003 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, it was found that women receiving a mixture of 4 g eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA along with 2 g of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) had lower levels of LDL cholesterol after 28 days compared to those who received either the EPA/DHA supplements without DHA, EPA/DHA with a smaller dose of GLA, or GLA alone.

    Flax is another source of omega-3s, and Arkopharma/Health From The Sun (Bedford, MA) offers FiProFLAX in a variety of forms. Marketing director Hugues P. Mas said the flax is “QAI [Quality Assurance International] certified organic and guaranteed GMO [genetically modified organism]-free.” On its Website, the company offers a cholesterol quiz geared to consumers, discussing the importance of omega-3s as well as other nutrients.

    Garlic. Adding to an already considerable body of research demonstrating that garlic can lower total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol, researchers at UCLA in 2003 reported that Kyolic aged garlic extract reduced or inhibited plaque formation in the arteries of 19 cardiac patients taking statin drugs.

    Lead researcher Matthew Budoff, Ph.D. commented at the time that the study “suggests that aged garlic extract may be a useful and beneficial dietary addition for the people who have high cardiovascular risk or who have undergone heart surgery.” Budoff has since presented several trade show seminars sponsored by Los Angeles-based Wakunaga of America, the makers of Kyolic.

    Guggul. In use for centuries as a component of Ayurvedic medicine, guggul—a gummy resin tapped from the Commiphora mukul tree, which is native to India—has been studied since the early 1960s for its hypolidemic (blood-lipid lowering) properties. Sabinsa Corp. (Piscataway, NJ), an ingredient supplier which produces a standardized extract under the brand name Gugulipid, says the studies on guggul indicate that its hypolipidemic activity can be attributed to more than one mechanism of action.

    Among the possible mechanisms are: inhibition of cholesterol biosynthesis, enhancing the rate of excretion of cholesterol, promoting rapid degradation of cholesterol, thyroid stimulation, alteration of biogenic amines, and “high affinity binding and anion exchange.”

    Homeopathy. “Homeopathy activates the body’s own control system to work properly,” said King. “This is the safest and most curative approach to take.

    “Forcing the body into biochemical change even naturally doesn’t actually have the curative action of homeopathy,” King continued. “Homeopathy can even correct the genetic predispositions to disease we may have inherited from as deep as a thousand years into our family chain.” King Bio makes Artery/Cholesterol/BP, a homeopathic formula intended to help tone heart muscles and blood vessels.

    Low glycemic index foods. In a study published in the February issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers found that high glycemic load is negatively correlated to serum levels of HDL cholesterol. Assessing the relationship between blood levels of lipids and diet in a test population of 32 healthy males and females ages 11 to 25, the researchers found that glycemic load accounted for 21.1 percent of the variation in HDL cholesterol. They concluded that glycemic load appears to be an important independent predictor of HDL cholesterol in youth and noted that dietary restrictions without attention to glycemic load could unfavorably influence blood lipids.

    Medicinal Mushrooms. Although its product SX-Fraction is intended primarily to address high blood sugar, Maitake Products, Inc. (MPI, Ridgefield Park, NJ) found in a clinical study that LDL cholesterol in diabetic patients declined modestly (from 142 mg/dl to 133 mg/dl) over a two-month period. Those taking SX-Fraction also lost about 7 lbs. in the same time period.

    “The more impressive lowering of cholesterol, however, comes from the dietary fiber that is found in all medicinal mushrooms,” said Ellen Shnidman, manager of scientific affairs at MPI. She cited animal studies which documented the cholesterol-lowering properties of four different mushrooms: maitake, shiitake, agaricus, and enokitake.

    For example, a study reported in the September 1996 issue of Alternative Therapies showed “a 44 percent reduction in total cholesterol in rats consuming maitake mushroom in their diet,” said Shnidman. “This cholesterol reduction is accompanied by weight loss, relative to rats eating a similar high-choelsterol diet without mushrooms. Apparently, cholesterol is excreted by the rats in sufficient quantity to aid in weight loss.”

    Oat bran. A 2004 consumer study conducted by the Natural Marketing Institute (NMI, Harleysville, PA) for Nurture, Inc. (Devon, PA), which produces the ingredient OatVantage, found that 63 percent of consumers managing their cholesterol levels prefer oat-based ingredients.

    Oat bran is the subject of a health claim authorized by FDA in 1999, and NMI research found that 69 percent of respondents preferred the FDA-permitted health claim, “Helps Lower Cholesterol,” over the model structure-function claim, “Helps Maintain Healthy Cholesterol Levels.” “This is significant for food, beverage, and dietary supplement manufacturers who want to increase sales by using a more consumer-desired claim on the product label,” said Griff Parker, Nurture CEO.

    Plant sterols. Also the subject of an FDA-approved claim for heart health, plant sterols (structurally similar to cholesterol in humans) can block the absorption of cholesterol, according to a number of studies. In an “Ask the Doctor” publication (available online at www.atdonline.org), Decker Weiss, N.M.D. noted that sterols enter the same receptor sites that cholesterol enters on its way to the bloodstream. “The cholesterol, being blocked from absorption, remains in our intestines where it is eventually excreted,” Weiss wrote. General Mills has just introduced Yoplait Healthy Heart, a yogurt high in plant sterols.

    Policosanol. A mixture of fatty alcohols derived from sugar cane or beeswax, policosanol has been favorably compared in clinical studies to several types of prescription drugs for managing cholesterol. On its own, policosanol was found in a 1999 study to reduce LDL cholesterol while raising levels of HDL cholesterol.

    Probiotics. “Several studies have indicated that consumption of certain cultured dairy products resulted in reduction of serum cholesterol, as well as triglycerides,” wrote Dr. S.K. Dash, president of probiotic manufacturer UAS Laboratories (Eden Prairie, MN), in his Consumer Guide to Probiotics. Among other studies, Dash cited two controlled clinical studies from the VA Medical Center at the University of Kentucky.

    “In the first study, fermented milk containing [Lactobacillus] acidophilus was accompanied by a 2.4 percent reduction of serum cholesterol concentration,” he wrote. “In the second study, a different L. acidophilus strain reduced serum cholesterol concentration by 3.2 percent. Since every 1 percent reduction in serum cholesterol concentration is associated with an estimated 2 to 3 percent reduction in risk for coronary heart disease [CHD], regular intake of fermented milk containing an appropriate strain of L. acidophilus has the potential of reducing risk for [CHD] by 6 to 10 percent.”

    Dash said his company’s DDS Probiotics contain DDS-1 L. acidophilus, “which has been researched and demonstrated to show cholesterol-lowering effect.”

    Psyllium. “Internal cleansing is very important” in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, “especially if you do it with a lot of fiber,” said Sunil Kohli, vice president of Chino, CA-based Health Plus, Inc. The cholesterol-managing ability of fiber in general and psyllium in particular is “very well-established,” he said.

    However, Kohli said, “It will probably do you no good if it’s random. It should be done on a regular basis, and it should be supervised. Consulting the doctor or pharmacist is important.”

    Soy. The protein in soy “has evidence of lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, based on reviews of studies using over 20 g of soy protein per day,” said Levin. “Soy isoflavones are considered only partly responsible for this effect.”

    Sytrinol. A patented proprietary formula derived from natural citrus and palm fruit extracts and containing citrus polymethoxylated flavones and palm tocotrienols, Sytrinol has been shown in clinical trials to improve total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides by up to 30 percent, 27 percent, and 33 percent, respectively. Having just wrapped up Phase III of a long-term trial of Sytrinol, Chicago-based SourceOne Global Partners, which owns the exclusive worldwide license for intellectual property associated with the ingredient, is commencing a study that combines Sytrinol with plant sterols.

    Tocotrienols. On its Website discussing the science and benefits of tocotrienols (www.tocotrienol.org), ingredient supplier Carotech Inc. (Edison, NJ) identifies several benefits for blood lipid levels. Tocotrienols, according to the Website, have been shown to “inhibit cholesterol production in the liver, thereby lowering total blood cholesterol;” “[suppress] hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity [and result in] the lowering of LDL cholesterol levels;” and “inhibit cholesterogenesis by suppressing HMG-CoA reductase.”

    New Weapons

    There are also nutrients that are emerging as potential weapons in the fight against cholesterol. Levin cited rice bran oil, resveratrol, pantethine, l-carnitine, and niacin as showing promise.

    With all of this, Levin said, it’s important for retailers to remember that “they are not allowed to discuss diseases and remedies unless there is an approved FDA health claim allowed on the label, as with soy protein and plant sterols. What is allowed are structure-function claims such as ‘cholesterol support,’ ‘promoting normal, healthy circulation,’ ‘homocysteine regulators,’ etc.”

    Supplementation is only one tool for managing cholesterol levels, manufacturers pointed out. “Besides nutrition, lifestyle is a key to controlling cholesterol,” Levin said. “Eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods will prevent the liver from churning out cholesterol as a ‘cheap’ antioxidant. The body uses oxidized cholesterol to patch leaky and damaged blood vessels, so the ability to build healthy collagen is a must, using nutrients like vitamin C, Pycnogenol, rutin, hyaluronic acid, and MSM.

    “Don’t forget exercise and stress reduction,” he added. “Stress results in high cortisol levels—usually accompanied by poor blood lipid levels—and a lack of good sleep to produce unhealthy people.” VR

    Vitamin Retailer Magazine, Inc., 431 Cranbury Road, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 //www.oprmagazine.com/

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