Vitamin, Nutrition and Health News

All About Potassium

2007-12-17T17:35:00.000-08:00

Potassium is an essential mineral.
More potassium is found in our body’s cells than any other mineral.

How Potassium helps you:

*Needed for normal muscle tone and function
*Helps to keep heart rhythm regular
*Important for a healthy nervous system
*Helps maintain blood pressure at normal level
*Helps dispose of body wastes
*Aids in regulating the transfer of nutrients to the cells

Symptoms of deficiency may include:
Fatigue, nausea, muscle weakness, muscle cramping, acne, rapid heartbeat

Natural sources: Dairy products – except cheese as potassium is lost in the whey, green leafy vegetables, fish, meat, poultry, apricots, legumes, avocados, whole grains, brown rice, bananas, blackstrap molasses, dried fruit, dates figs, potatoes, nuts

WHAT IS: Ginkgo Biloba????

2007-12-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

WHAT IS GINKGO BILOBA

Parts Used: Leaves

Common Uses:

Improves memory loss
Improves brain function
Helps reduce depression
Lessons symptoms of early stage Alzheimer's disease
Improves circulation to extremities
Improves long term recovery from stroke
Reduces Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

How Ginkgo Biloba works

Ginkgo Biloba extract makes the circulation system work more efficiently. It improves blood flow to the brain and the central nervous system, and also increases circulation to the extremities (arms and legs, hands and feet)

Reduced blood flow to the brain leads to a variety of problems including:

depression
memory loss
disorientation

Ginkgo Biloba extract has been shown to be an effective treatment.
Ginkgo extract is also a powerful antioxidant which helps protect the cells of the brain and nervous system. These cells are particularly susceptible to free radical attack and this may help prevent age-related diseases of the central nervous system.

Side EffectsSide effects from Ginkgo Biloba are rare. In clinical studies about 1% of patients suffered a mild stomach upset. Some people who have poor blood flow to the brain may get a mild headache for the first couple days of use.

Safety Concerns There are no known interactions with commonly prescribed drugs.
History of Ginkgo BilobaGinkgo Biloba has an amazing history. It’s the worlds oldest living species of tree, and is in fact a living fossil – fossil records of the gingko tree go back over 200 million years.

As you might expect of something that has survived for so long, it has a remarkable ability to resist extreme temperatures, pollution and insects. The Ice Age however destroyed the tree in many parts of the world, including north America and Europe. Luckily for us it did survive in Asia, where, in China, it was later cultivated as a sacred tree.
Ginkgo has been used for medicinal purposes since the origins of Chinese herbal medicine nearly 5,000 years ago. It was recommended in about 2767 B.C. for the treatment of respiratory tract ailments and also for memory loss in the elderly.
Ginkgo finally made it’s return to America when, in 1784, Ginkgo trees were planted on an estate near Philadelphia belonging to William Hamilton.
Since then Ginkgo Biloba extract has been the subject of more than 400 published studies and reports, making it among most well researched herbal medicine in the world. It is also one of the most frequently prescribed herbal medicines.

Fungal Infections

2007-12-13T06:41:00.000-08:00

Fungus infections can occur in many parts of the body - on the skin between the toes (athletes foot), under the nails, on the scalp, in bearded areas, the genitals, in the vagina or mouth, as well as internal surfaces.

You are more likely to develop a fungal infections if your immune system is depressed, you are taking antibiotics or oral contraceptives, you are obese or a diabetic, you are ill or you perspire heavily.

What can help:

Help boost immune system with Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Echinacea

Acidophilus helps to restore your bodies friendly bacteria

Studies have shown that garlic is highly effective in treating fungal infections. It can be taken internally or applied topically.

Tea tree oil is effective against most forms of fungus that cause skin infections. Studies have shown that when applied topically, it is an effective treatment of athletes foot and toenail fungus.
****Please note, tea tree oil is poisonous and should NEVER be taken internally.****

Chamomile acts as an anti inflammatory. Chamomile cream can be applied to the skin, a mouth wash could also be used.

A very few people are allergic to Chamomile.

Biotin-What is it???

2007-12-08T17:18:00.000-08:00

Biotin, sometimes called coenzyme R or vitamin H, is one of the more recently discovered B-complex vitamins.

How Biotin can help
*Aids in cell growth
*Helps in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein
*Helps in the utilization of B-complex vitamins
*Promotes healthy hair and skin
*May prevent hair loss in some men

Symptoms of deficiency may include:
Extreme exhaustion, drowsiness, hair loss, muscle pains, loss of appetite,
grayish cast to the skin.

Natural sources:

Whole grain foods, saltwater fish, milk, yeast, meat, poultry, soybeans, cooked eggs. Biotin is
also produced in the intestine by friendly bacteria.

Important!!!!

*Raw egg whites contain a substance that reduces the bodies ability to absorb Biotin.

(Therefore, if you eat large quantities of these you may be at risk of becoming deficient.)

Cooked egg whites do not cause this problem.

*A long course of antibiotics can also reduce your bodies Biotin levels.

10 Top Supplements to Help Boost Your Immune System

2007-12-07T15:58:00.000-08:00

The immune system is made of various bodily components including organs, bone marrow, cells, antibodies and chemicals, as well as the nutrients that help nourish and generate them. Listed below are the Top Ten supplements to help keep your immune system strong and you healthy.

Vitamin C Gives all round support to your immune system and may also have antiviral properties.When dealing with health problems such as viral infections, colds, stress, surgery and progressive diseases, the bodies Vitamin C levels are compromised.

Vitamin E This essential vitamin is most useful for its antioxidant effects on oxidized fats and cholesterol, both of which are suspected causes heart disease. Vitamin E also helps to protect cell membranes and DNA from free-radical damage.

Selenium. Selenium helps in 2 ways:As part of the body's detoxification system. It is particularly helpful in getting rid of chemical irritants such as heavy metals. As an antioxidant it prevents or slows the aging process of tissue. This may benefit the cardiovascular system and protect against cancer.

Vitamin A This antioxidant reduces the rate of infection and supports normal cell reproduction. It helps protect the body from the irritating effects of smoke and other pollutants. It may also reduce your chances of getting such health problems as ulcers, atherosclerosis, stroke and high blood pressure.

Beta-carotene This nutrient converts to Vitamin A in the body, however it does not have the same antioxidant effect as Vitamin A. Beta-carotene has been shown to strengthen the immune response by stimulating T-helper cell activity.It also appears to prevent the development of cancer. A number of studies have shown people with a higher beta-carotene intakes have a reduced rate of lung and colon cancer.

Zinc Zinc is essential to several immune-system functions. It helps with healing and reduces infection.It supports the parts of the immune system that helps the body fight infection and produce antibodies. By helping to regulate the function of white blood cells zinc can improve antibody response to vaccines and cell-mediated immunity.

Echinacea Angustifolia Echinacea has been named the "king of blood purifiers". It is used to purify the blood and lymph system and to treat infections. Recent studies show that it can increase white blood cell counts and as a result increase our ability to fight bacteria and viruses. It also stimulates the lymphatic system to clear wastes.

Acidophilus This beneficial bacteria inhabits the human digestive system. It is best known for assuring the return of normal body functions after a course of antibiotics, by reintroducing friendly bacteria into the colon. It acts as a mild antibiotic, and regular use can replace the harmful bacteria in your colon (or vaginal tract in women, where acidophilus is also used to treat yeast infections).

CoEnzyme-Q10 CoEnzyme-Q10 is made in the body and works alongside other enzymes to support the body's bioenergetic functions.It seems to act as a mild stimulant to the immune-system. It has been shown to help lower blood pressure and enhance the pumping action and electrical function of the heart. It may also improve energy production in heart muscle cells.

Thymus Glandulars These are derived from animal glands and are thought to supply basic nutrients such as amino acids, oils and vitamins. Studies suggests that when eaten, they reach, and influence, human glands. Thymus Glandulars contain the active hormone thymosin which is of particular importance to the immunological function because help to stimulate T-lymphocyte production and activity in the body.

EIGHT STEPS TO HEALTHIER SKIN

2007-12-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

Our modern lifestyles and diet can damage our skin and its collagen by destroying enzymes and creating free radicals. This in turn decreases skin flexibility and elasticity. Excessive free radical damage can result in leathery skin, wrinkles and even skin cancer.
The best line of defense is prevention. So be good to your skin and try following these 8 simple steps. Your skin will be glad you did.

1) Your skin needs plenty of fluid to keep it hydrated and to minimize wrinkling. So drink lots of
water - 8 to 10 glasses every day.

2) Diet is important. Eat plenty of fresh enzyme-rich fruits and vegetables such as avocados,
bananas, broccoli, cabbage, mangos, wheat grass and sprouts, the richest source.

3) Your face will reflect the first signs of fatigue so get plenty of rest.

4) If you smoke, quit.

5) Minimize alcohol intake.

6) Avoid excessive exposure to the sun.

7) Help nourish your skin by using skin-care products that containing vitamins, minerals and
enzymes.

8) Improve circulation and enzymatic activity by exercising.

ALL ABOUT VITAMIN D

2007-12-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

Vitamin D is sometimes called the Sunshine vitamin because our bodies use the suns ultra violet rays to produce this essential vitamin.
How Vitamin D helps
Improves absorption and utilization of Calcium and Phosphorous
Required for normal growth and development of bones and teeth
Important in the treatment and prevention of osteoporosis
Helps maintains a stable nervous system
May help improve muscle strength
Enhances immunity
Symptoms of deficiency may includeRickets, tooth decay, softening of the bones, improper healing of fractures, lack of vigor, muscular weakness, poor absorption of calcium
Natural sources Fish Oils, dairy products fortified with Vitamin D, sunshine.
Important
Most foods are generally low in vitamin D, however exposing your face and arms to the sun is an effective way to get this vitamin.
If you live in a place where there is little sunshine, or in the winter time a supplement may be the way to go.

8 STEPS TO AGING WELL

2007-12-05T05:09:00.000-08:00

1) Eat a well balanced and varied diet. Your diet should be high in fruits and vegetables and low
in saturated fat. Especially important are legumes, whole grains, cold-water fish and soy. The
Japanese who have a low rates of breast cancer, prostate cancer and heart disease eat a diet
which is high in tofu and other soy products.

2) Keep your immune system strong with zinc and vitamins C and E.

3) Protect your vision by avoiding excess sun exposure - wear sunglasses. Eat foods that contain
vitamins A, C and E as well as the carotenes, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin.

4) Lower the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease, stroke and cancer by limiting saturated fat
and cholesterol in the diet and increasing intake of vitamins B12, C, E and D, folate.
The minerals calcium and selenium, as well as soluble fiber, garlic, tea and grape flavonoids
are also helpful.

5) Keep mentally alert with B vitamins, antioxidants and Ginkgo. Although Ginkgo has been
clinically tested only on people with dementia, it may help healthy people as well.

6) Protect bones from osteoporosis with a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Take supplements
to ensure you meet the RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance). Calcium supplements which
also contain Magnesium, Zinc and Boron work better.Help your body make its own vitamin D
by spending some time in the sun - a minimum of 10 minutes every day.

7) Boost antioxidant activity and increase cellular energy activity with Coenzyme-Q10.

8) Exercise. To maintain strong muscles, mix aerobic exercise with muscle-strengthening
activities such as weight training. Weight-bearing exercises also keep bones healthy. When
combined with aerobic exercises, they also keep weight down. Carrying excess weight has
been linked to heart disease and certain forms of cancer.

5 STEPS TO A HEALTHIER HEART

2007-12-04T12:48:00.000-08:00

Step 1: Eat five to ten servings per day of fresh fruits and vegetables
Studies have shown that populations that eat large amounts of fruits and vegetables have half the cardiovascular disease rate of those that don't. So the more fruits and vegetables that you can include in your diet the better. Scientists are discovering new aspects and benefits of foods all the time so although taking supplements like beta-carotene and fiber may be beneficial, they can not give you all the advantages found in a variety of foods.
Step 2: Eat foods high in antioxidants. Supplement your diet with vitamins E and C.
Fruits and vegetables supply many antioxidants but they can also be found in many other foods such as nuts, wheat germ and garlic, and beverages, such as green tea.
Antioxidants protect arteries as well as the heart itself in several ways. They also help prevent the degradation of cholesterol - this is much more harmful than the mere presence of cholesterol in the arteries.
The most important antioxidant is Vitamin E. It is difficult to obtain sufficient amounts of this vitamin to protect against cardiovascular disease from diet alone. So taking a supplement is a good idea. Most experts suggest 400 IU. There is some evidence that natural Vitamin E is preferable to synthetic.
Most nutritionists also suggest supplementing with vitamin C at a dosage of 500mg to 2,000 mg each day, depending on how much you obtained from your diet. As your body cannot store Vitamin C it is best to divide the dose into 2 or 3 equal amounts taken throughout the day.
Step 3: Eat less iron by eating less meat and iron-fortified foods.
Studies have shown that high levels of iron can be harmful to the heart and arteries. Men, over age 20, who have higher levels of stored iron had higher levels of cardiovascular disease. In women increased cardiovascular disease related to stored iron does not become a factor until after age 50, when menopause begins and iron levels rise.
Step 4: Eat plenty of therapeutic nutrients.
Scientists have shown there are many nutrients that can protect arteries and improve cardiovascular health. The most important are listed below:
Vitamins
Source
B6
Yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, salmon, walnuts, beans and bananas.
B12
Clams and oysters.
Folate
Leafy greens, wheat germ and oranges.
Minerals
Source
Calcium
Dairy, greens and beans.
Magnesium
Nuts and seeds, whole wheat bread and fish.
Potassium
Fruits, vegetables and dairy.
Selenium
Whole grains, onions, fish and dairy.
Other Nutrients
Source
Arginine
Nuts
Flavonoids
Onions, grapes, apples and black tea.
Genistein
Soybeans.
Lutein
Spinach and kale.
Lycopenes
Tomatoes and pink grapefruit.
Pectin
Grapefruits, citrus fruits and apples
Sulfur
Garlic and onions
Soluble fiber
Apples, bananas, citrus fruits, carrots, oat bran and beans.
Step 5: Keep physically active. Exercising will improve your cardiovascular system. It also uses energy and allows us to eat more of the foods that contain high amounts of therapeutic nutrients.

BOOSTING YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

2007-12-04T12:44:00.000-08:00

The immune system is made of various bodily components including organs, bone marrow, cells, antibodies and chemicals, as well as the nutrients that help nourish and generate them. Listed below are the Top Ten supplements to help keep your immune system strong and you healthy.
Vitamin C Gives all round support to your immune system and may also have antiviral properties.When dealing with health problems such as viral infections, colds, stress, surgery and progressive diseases, the bodies Vitamin C levels are compromised.
Vitamin E This essential vitamin is most useful for its antioxidant effects on oxidized fats and cholesterol, both of which are suspected causes heart disease. Vitamin E also helps to protect cell membranes and DNA from free-radical damage.
Selenium Selenium helps in 2 ways:As part of the body's detoxification system. It is particularly helpful in getting rid of chemical irritants such as heavy metals. As an antioxidant it prevents or slows the aging process of tissue. This may benefit the cardiovascular system and protect against cancer.
Vitamin A This antioxidant reduces the rate of infection and supports normal cell reproduction. It helps protect the body from the irritating effects of smoke and other pollutants. It may also reduce your chances of getting such health problems as ulcers, atherosclerosis, stroke and high blood pressure.
Beta-carotene This nutrient converts to Vitamin A in the body, however it does not have the same antioxidant effect as Vitamin A. Beta-carotene has been shown to strengthen the immune response by stimulating T-helper cell activity.It also appears to prevent the development of cancer. A number of studies have shown people with a higher beta-carotene intakes have a reduced rate of lung and colon cancer.
Zinc Zinc is essential to several immune-system functions. It helps with healing and reduces infection.It supports the parts of the immune system that helps the body fight infection and produce antibodies. By helping to regulate the function of white blood cells zinc can improve antibody response to vaccines and cell-mediated immunity.
Echinacea Angustifolia Echinacea has been named the "king of blood purifiers". It is used to purify the blood and lymph system and to treat infections. Recent studies show that it can increase white blood cell counts and as a result increase our ability to fight bacteria and viruses. It also stimulates the lymphatic system to clear wastes.
Acidophilus This beneficial bacteria inhabits the human digestive system. It is best known for assuring the return of normal body functions after a course of antibiotics, by reintroducing friendly bacteria into the colon. It acts as a mild antibiotic, and regular use can replace the harmful bacteria in your colon (or vaginal tract in women, where acidophilus is also used to treat yeast infections).
CoEnzyme-Q10 CoEnzyme-Q10 is made in the body and works alongside other enzymes to support the body's bioenergetic functions.It seems to act as a mild stimulant to the immune-system. It has been shown to help lower blood pressure and enhance the pumping action and electrical function of the heart. It may also improve energy production in heart muscle cells.
Thymus Glandulars These are derived from animal glands and are thought to supply basic nutrients such as amino acids, oils and vitamins. Studies suggests that when eaten, they reach, and influence, human glands. Thymus Glandulars contain the active hormone thymosin which is of particular importance to the immunological function because help to stimulate T-lymphocyte production and activity in the body.

THE COMMON COLD

2007-12-04T12:32:00.001-08:00

The symptoms of the common cold include sneezing, coughing, congestion, headache, sore throat, watery eyes, aches and pains, and fever.
Modern medicine has yet to find a cure. One reason is that the virus which causes colds comes in hundreds of different forms. It is also able to change size and shape making the formulation of a vaccine almost impossible.
The only treatments offered by conventional medicine are decongestants, cough medicines and acetaminophen to mask the symptoms. None of these can actually cure the cold - they just make you suffer less!
However, all the unpleasant symptoms of a cold are your body's way of defending and healing itself and it is usually best not to interfere. The mucus flow is your body's way of ridding itself of the virus - nasal decongestants can prevent this.
A strong immune system is probably the best way to avoid a cold, but if you already have a cold then bolstering your immune system will help to shorten it's duration and make the symptoms less severe. See Boost Your Immune System on this website
Eat a healthy well balanced diet - junk food can stress your immune system and leave you vulnerable to illness. Add garlic to your diet or take a garlic supplement. Studies have shown that garlic has antiviral properties and can help to boost your immune system.
Taking Echinacea for 6 - 8 weeks before the start of the cold season has been shown to reduce your risk of getting a cold by strengthening your body's immune system.
Tips to Help Relieve your Cold
Rest - your body is working hard to heal itself, it needs rest.
Drink plenty of fluids - a good rule is to double your normal intake to flush the virus from your body.
Taking Echinacea at the onset of a cold has been shown to reduce it's duration and lessen the symptoms. Experts suggest taking two capsules immediately then one every two hour for 48 hours or until relief is felt.
Chicken soup was first recommended for colds by the Egyptians 800 years ago. Recently scientists at Mount Sanai Medical Center found that it appears to increase mucus flow.
Experts have found that eating hot spicy foods can increase mucus flow and help a cough be more productive.
Wash hands often and discard used tissues immediately
Avoid alcohol - it dehydrates your body and stresses your immune system.
Don't smoke
Nutritional Supplements Worth Considering
Vitamin C - at least 1000mg daily - Studies have shown that taking 1000mg daily reduced the symptoms of the cold and shortened the duration by as much as 72%
Zinc lozenges - Sucking zinc lozenges has been shown to reduce the duration of colds.
Beta Carotene helps to reduce inflammation of mucus membranes and strengthen immune system.

SLEEP BETTER

2007-12-04T12:31:00.000-08:00

Nearly half of us experience problems getting to sleep at some time in our lives and nothing ruins a day more than lack of sleep the night before.
The amount of sleep individuals need varies, but most people need somewhere between six and eight hours each night. Contrary to popular belief older adults need the same amount, however their sleep pattern may change with age.
Waking very early in the morning may simply mean your body is ready to get up. In fact, no matter how early it is, it is always better to get up and do something until you feel sleepy again rather than lie there frustrated.
Many thing can cause sleep problems :
Stress or anxiety
Caffeine
Alcohol
Prescription drugs
Changes in our work schedule
Travel
Family illness
Physical changes that come with getting older
Over the counter drugs may work, but the next day you may feel as groggy as the lack of sleep would have left you. To make matters worse you could suffer side effects from taking them such as constipation, urinary retention, dry mouth and vasoconstriction of the eyes, which can interfere with contact lens use.
So what's the solution?Start by following the same routine each night. Have a regular bedtime, and keep your bedroom for bedroom activities only, that means no reading, watching television or working in bed.
Make your bedroom as comfortable as possible, use room-darkening shades, lower the temperature to 65 degrees and when your are ready to sleep turn lights out. You could also try some simple relaxation techniques, such as taking a warm bath before you go to bed, even better if you add a few drops of lavender oil (hops works well too).
If following this routine fails to improve your sleep pattern within about two weeks there are several non-addictive natural remedies that you can try. They can be used on a regular basis without side effects.
Natural Sleep Remedies
Chamomile A cup of chamomile tea about half an hour before going to bed is a simple and effective sleep aid.
Lavender Try rubbing lavender oil on tense muscles. Its aroma also has a calming effect when inhaled. You could sip some lavender tea before you go to bed.
Valerian This calming sleep aid has been approved by the the German Federal Ministry of Health. It is widely recommended for treating anxiety related sleep problems.
Kava If your sleeping problems are due to muscle tension, such as back spasms, or anxiety then this herb may be the solution. It relaxes muscles and lessens feelings of anxiety allowing you to fall asleep. It is worth noting that alcohol intensifies the effects of kava and may cause sedation.
Melatonin is a hormone which occurs naturally in the body. It has been shown to be effective for short term use in resetting the body clocks of travelers and shift workers. It is also useful for the treatment of occasional insomnia.
To reduce jet lag, experts suggest taking melatonin en route. After takeoff set your watch to your destination time. Use this time from then on. Two hours before your normal bedtime (destination time) take 1.5 mg of melatonin and if possible sleep on the plane.
Take melatonin for a couple of days after you arrive and this can further help adjust your body clock to the new time zone.