Posts Tagged Amount of omega 3s to take daily

… cholesterol and almost ignore its fraternal twin brother (arguably a more important player in risk of cardiovascular disease)? The answer is quite simple, there are basically two ways that a …

There are three main types of omega-3 fatty acid in the diet, ALA, EPA and DHA. ALA, is found in vegetable sources of omega-3 fatty acids including flax seed, hemp seed and many nuts. As it pertains to brain function, this omega-3 has the weakest effect because it is more of a precursor to the body’s activated fatty acids EPA and DHA. Of the two remaining omega-3 fats, DHA is most important for the discussion of brain function and is what I will focus on in this article. This does not mean that DHA is all that is required for a healthy system. Remember, nature has placed EPA and DHA into the food and in our body for very specific reasons. As it pertains to brain function, EPA simply plays a lesser role and thus will not be discussed here.

DHA, is the most “unsaturated” of the omega-3 fatty acid and has a great affinity for the brain and nervous system where it plays numerous roles. Research has shown DHA to be important for brain development in infants and much of the research has been devoted to how DHA supplementation improves brain development in the young. More and more data is now coming out that is shedding light on DHA’s roles in brain maintenance in adults. Some very interesting research has found DHA to be important in keeping the memory functioning properly as well as general brain function.

Two studies, the Chicago study and the Rotterdam study, reported a 60% decrease in incidence of Alzheimer’s in people who enjoyed at least one fish meal a week. These observational studies confirm previous preliminary research that found extremely low levels of DHA in the memory center of the brain of Alzheimer’s subjects who had succumbed to the disease. Research at the University of Kentucky found that certain phospholipids, which contain high levels of DHA, were severely depleted in the most diseased parts of the brain of Alzheimer’s patients.

Recent studies have found DHA to play integral roles in numerous important brain pathways including:
1. Maintaining adequate levels of important phospholipids that allow brain cells to communicate with one another
2. The proper production of certain neurotransmitters such as dopamine
3. The regulation of enzymes necessary for proper brain and memory function
4. The regulation of inflammation that can speed the process of Alzheimer’s and other diseases of the brain
5. The production of certain neuroprotective proteins which prevent damage to fragile areas of the brain through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways. These protective molecules prevent the inappropriate death of nerve cells.
Aside from the benefits to memory DHA plays important roles in regulating mood. DHA deficiency has been noted in cases of depression and aggression. A recent study found dogs who are more aggressive may be suffering from a deficiency in DHA. In addition, a study performed in jails in England found a 50% drop in murder rates in jails when DHA was supplemented to the diets of the prison population.

Conclusion:

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, plays numerous roles in maintaining a healthy brain. I feel that fish oil is a vital supplement for people who want to protect their brains from degeneration and should be a first line prescription for those who have been diagnosed with any degenerative disease of the brain or mood disorder. There is evidence that krill oil, an oil extracted from a type of crustacean, may provide important phospholipids in addition to the omega-3 fatty acids. Although data is lacking that krill oil would be a sufficient replacement for fish oil, I feel that it would be a good supplement to add, along with fish oil, for people suffering with a brain disease.

Dosage recommendation: 1 Tablespoon daily of Carlson’s Finest Fish Oil (or 6-9 capsules daily if you prefer) could be used along with 2 capsules daily of krill oil.

The recommendation was that doctors should now consider preemptively medicating any patient whose blood pressure was creeping up towards the 140/90 cut off point. I remember thinking, “Are these people out of their minds? Now there is such thing as treating a ‘pre-disease’?” I thought. Worst yet, they treat these “pre-diseases” with medications that have not even proven their worth in treating the actual “disease”?

Needless to say, we at Your Prescription for Health did not sit quietly by and allow them to decree fabricated claims of disease prevention. We quickly wrote articles and stood angrily atop of our soap boxes to preach the fallacy of this ridiculous conclusion. Months later, it was determined that this “panel of experts” were actually cronies for the drug companies—having direct ties to the companies that make drugs used to treat hypertension, and now, pre-hypertension. Alas, the word was out and the damage done. Medicine had accepted their phony pre-disease as another medical “fact” that was beyond contestation.

Recently, a controversial article that was published in the reputable Cochrane Database of Systemic Reviews, issue 3, determined that lowering blood pressure to levels below 140/90 provided no benefit to the risk of heart attack, strokes or funeral rates (death rates per year). In this review, lowering blood pressure to 135/85 compared to 140/90 did nothing to improve the health and longevity of over 22,000 patients in the review.

So, yes, this is a big “I told you so!” It is not our first and it certainly will not be our last! But, I don’t want to end with an “I told you so.” Let’s talk about blood pressure, why it happens and how to fix it.

First, I am going to speak in generalities here. There certainly are extenuating circumstances that could lead to atypical hypertension. These include the use of certain medication and kidney disease. We will not discuss these less common situations in the interest of helping the majority of our readers. This article is for people who have run-of-the-mill hypertension without any definitive cause; this is called “idiopathic hypertension”. People with idiopathic hypertension often ask the doctor, “why is my blood pressure high?” and they receive the dismissive reply, “because you are getting older.”

The number one cause of elevated blood pressure is what we call “metabolic syndrome” or “insulin resistance”. This occurs when we consume more carbohydrates than our body can tolerate. When this happens, insulin steadily increases resulting in a catastrophic series of biochemical events that causes blood vessel constriction and water retention. Here is a quick and easy method to begin correcting this health issue:

1. Regulate the amount of carbohydrate that you consume. People with insulin resistance may want to consider decreasing carbohydrate intake to approximately 20% of their daily caloric intake. So if your daily caloric intake is 2,000 kilocalories; 20% equates to approximately 400 kilocalories or 100 grams of carbohydrates. After the body has normalized, you may be able to increase this to 25-30%.

2. Pay attention to the quality of carbohydrate that you consume on a daily basis. A high quality carbohydrate is one with a low glycemic load. For more information on glycemic load, see www.mendosa.com .

3. Exercise at least 5 days a week for at least one-hour. Exercise burns sugar and fat while improving insulin sensitivity. Most people do not exercise often enough, nor do they exercise for long enough. Commit to one-hour a day, if you do this then you will enjoy improved blood pressure and overall health and wellbeing. Your exercise program should include weight training, walking (or light jogging) and stretching.

4. Eat your fruits and veggies. There is no faster way to help normalize the potassium/sodium balance in the body than to cut the amount of refined/prepared foods while filling the void with fruits and vegetables.

5. Supplement to correct deficiencies and improve blood vessel health. Rather than taking herbs for blood pressure, we want to correct deficiencies that may cause elevated blood pressure. These include:

a. Omega-3 fatty acids – Fish oil is the best for improving blood pressure.

b. Magnesium/Potassium aspartate – Be careful if you are on medications for blood pressure as some medications, such as ACE inhibitors, can increase potassium levels to dangerous levels. Standard dose: 2 capsules two to three times daily.

c. Vitamin D3 – This will enhance the absorption of minerals such as potassium and magnesium while providing other benefits to the cardiovascular system. 2,000-4,000 iu daily.

d. HTN Complex – This formula is designed for those who need to more aggressively lower blood pressure. It contains many nutritional and herbal ingredients to improve blood pressure when the above mentioned measures are insufficient. Recommended dose: 2 capsules twice daily.

The most important thing that you need to know about high blood pressure is that it is generally not a disease, instead, it’s a symptom of a body that is biochemically out of balance. In this article, we will teach you a simple three step system for natural blood pressure control using only diet and natural remedies. The purpose of such a program is to achieve one thing…bring the body back into perfect balance so that blood pressure is controlled by the body’s own homeostatic systems.

Step 1: Find Out Why You Have High Blood Pressure

I am not going to leave you to figure this out on your own, nor am I going to leave it to your busy, overworked doctor either. Below are the tests that you should ask your doctor for to figure out why your blood pressure may be elevated:

1. Fasting Insulin Levels & Hemoglobin a1c – The number one cause of elevated blood pressure is elevated insulin levels and the resulting metabolic syndrome. These two tests will help to diagnose a metabolic syndrome and may help to save you from a future diabetes diagnosis.
2. Potassium (K) & intracellular magnesium (RBC-Mg) – These two minerals are essential to a healthy blood pressure. If either, or both, are low or low-normal, this could be one indication as to why your blood pressure is elevated.
3. Vitamin D – Vitamin D deficiency is common in our society and when vitamin D is low, the cardiovascular system does not work properly.
4. RBC-Mg (Red blood cell magnesium) – Magnesium deficiency is a common problem in our society and the consequences can be devastating. Magnesium acts as a natural calcium channel blocker and works to relax the blood vessels.

Step 2: 3 Dietary Changes for a Healthy Blood Pressure

1. Decrease carbohydrate intake. Carbohydrates increase insulin production which causes fluid retention, inflammation and electrolyte imbalance.
2. Remove all unhealthy fats. These fats include trans-fatty acids and cooked omega-6 fatty acids from vegetable oils.
3. Make the Magic Salad for Blood Pressure every day. I have designed a salad recipe that will flood your body with hypertension- blasting ingredients which are high in potassium, magnesium and phytochemicals that will lower blood pressure and promote wellness. The ingredients are as follows:

• Organic field greens (available at Costco and most local grocery stores)
• Organic carrots
• Celery
• Green & Red Peppers
• Radishes
• Mushrooms
• Fresh parsley
• Tomatoes
• Braggs Apple cider vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil

Eat at least one large salad, containing these ingredients every day. Note: Some medications, called ACE Inhibitors, can cause your body to retain potassium. If you are on these medication, your doctor should monitor your potassium closely.

Step 3: Use the right natural supplements to promote a healthy blood pressure.

Supplements can be an effective tool in your struggle to normalize blood pressure. The goals of a natural program for high blood pressure are three fold:

1. Normalize deficiencies (such as potassium, magnesium zinc, omega-3, etc.)
2. Decrease resistance to insulin
3. Relax blood vessels & normalize fluid balance

There are a few natural remedies that we recommend for normalizing blood pressure.

1. WholeMega by New Chapter – This omega-3 supplement provides a healthy balance of essential fatty acids that help to relax and improve the elasticity of blood vessels. Recommended dose: 2 capsules twice daily.
2. Cardiotonic-BP by Natura Health Products – I have used this formula in my practice for almost a year, it is a blend of some of natures most powerful herbal and nutritional ingredients for a healthy blood pressure. 3 capsules twice daily.
3. Coenzyme Q10 – CoQ10 helps to energize the cells and protect the vessels from free radicals that can harm the blood pressure. Research has not delineated the exact mechanism by which CoQ10 positively impacts the blood pressure; but it can have a significant impact on blood pressure while positively impacting overall wellness.

It is officially summer and it is time to talk about skin aging, skin cancer and, most importantly, ways of protecting the skin from the “harmful rays of the sun”.

Sun exposure is considered the most common cause of premature wrinkles in our society. Did you know that many experts are calling sun tanning and tanning booths the “tobacco of the 21st century”?

If you want to keep your youthful skin for as long as possible, then you better pay attention to what follows! It may well save you from a decade or more of premature skin aging and may even save you from those dreaded words, “You have skin cancer.”

Protect Your Skin For a Long & Healthy Life

First, it is important to understand that skin cancer, in one form or another, accounts for about fifty percent of all cancers. Most of these skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma, a common and benign form. The second most common form is squamous cell carcinoma, a form that is generally benign but can become invasive in rare cases when left untreated. The least common and most dangerous form is melanoma, a form that is aggressive and deadly. Because skin cancer accounts for such a significant amount of cancer incidence, keeping the skin healthy can have a significant impact on longevity and quality of life. Treatment of even benign forms of skin cancer can leave unsightly scars and thus prevention is key.

Many experts blame sun exposure for the high incidence of skin cancer in our society. Although UV rays can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer, there are likely other factors that play an even more important role such as age and nutrition.

Questions about the link between sun exposure and skin cancer have been raised by studies that found office workers were at a higher risk of developing malignant melanomas compared to people whose lifestyles and work exposed them to larger quantities of sunlight. In one such study, the lowest risk of melanoma was found in the group who listed sunbathing as their main outdoor activity (Lancet 2: 290-92, 1982).

Numerous other studies have been performed to test these findings, many of which confirm the results. Please note, these results do not prove that sun exposure is not a contributor to melanomas, it simply shows that we must look for other co-factors that may prove to play an even more important role in the ultimate development of melanoma.

The bottom line: People who work outside and are exposed to sunlight most days produce melanin that works to protect the cells from damage. The people who are most at risk are the occasional sun worshipers. It is also important to realize that other factors such as genetics and nutrition may play a significant role in the development of melanoma.
Research into the use of sunscreen has failed to correlate sunscreen use with a decreased risk of melanoma (Ann of Int Med. 2003; 139(12)966-78). Other research shows that melanoma risk continues to increase despite the increased use of sunscreen. In fact, Boston University School of Medicine reported that in the US, melanoma diagnosis is increasing at a rate faster than any other form of cancer. Researchers are unsure as to why this is occurring at such an alarming rate, suggested explanations include

• Sunscreens give a false sense of security and people are spending more time in the sun
• People are not using sunscreen properly. This includes not applying enough sunscreen and not applying it often enough.
• Poor nutrition that ultimately depletes crucial antioxidants.
• Sunscreen use may inhibit vitamin D production. Vitamin D has been correlated with protection from numerous forms of cancer
• Sunscreen often contains oils that oxidize in the skin when exposed to heat and UV light which may increase DNA damage
• People are living longer which allows for longer exposure to UV rays
• Sunscreens have offered UVB protection (the radiation not associated with melanoma risk), but have lacked adequate protection from UVA radiation, the more serious and most abundant form of radiation

With all of this controversy, is it advisable to use sunscreen?

Dr. Michael Huncharek, a radiation oncologist who published a review of 11 studies on the subject, determined that there is likely no harm and most likely significant benefit to sunscreen when used properly. He admits that we have much to learn about melanoma, but with the evidence to date, sunscreen is recommended. I have a tendency to agree with him, provided you use the right kind of sunscreen and use it appropriately.

Why is sun exposure so damaging?

Sunlight contains two main forms of ultraviolet radiation, UVA and UVB. After exposure to sunlight, DNA can be damaged which can trigger inflammation.

In an ideal world, antioxidants in the skin will limit damage caused by UV light and specialized cells in the skin will produce melanin, the compound that darkens skin and protects it from UV damage. Any cells that are damaged beyond repair would ideally trigger a process of programmed cell suicide called apoptosis. Apoptosis helps to decrease the likelihood of an abnormal cell developing into a tumor. The reality, however, is not quite so rosy. Numerous factors may set the stage for skin cancer to develop, these include:

• We spend most of our lives indoors and thus do not have a natural melanin barrier to the UV rays. This is why people with fair skin are at higher risk of skin cancer, less melanin equals less protection.
• The Standard American Diet (S.A.D.) does not provide nearly enough antioxidant protection in the skin to prevent damage. Certain plant compounds and vitamins act as first line protection from the harmful effects of the sun. If you eat few fruits and vegetables then, odds are, you have a depletion of antioxidant protection in the skin.
• The Standard American Diet is also quite deficient in vitamins and other nutrients that play very important roles in DNA repair. These include nutrients known as methyl donors such as folic acid and trimethylglycine. In addition, due to these lifestyles, the cells of our body need more of these DNA repair nutrients.
• Vitamin D deficiency is common and may play a significant role in the development of many cancers including skin cancer.
• Omega-3 fatty acid deficiency and omega-6 abundance of the diet have correlated with increased risk of cancer (Cancer Detect Prev. 2006; 30(3): 224-32) Trans-fats may also set the stage for cancer growth.

Dr. Zane Kime, author of the book Sunlight, suggests that sun exposure creates damage to the DNA under the presence of harmful fats and a deficiency of antioxidants in the skin. He hypothesizes that skin with higher concentrations of antioxidants will prevent irreversible damage to the skin from UV radiation.

Preliminary research confirms this finding. In one study performed in rats, UV radiation caused a significant decrease in the animal’s skin concentrations of vitamins C and E. A study performed in humans found a protection from skin cancer in subjects who took 200 mcg of selenium daily. In addition, later in the article, we will discuss a breakthrough nutritional supplement that has been shown to protect the skin from DNA damage induced by sun exposure. First let’s talk about sunscreen.

The Perfect Sunscreen?

Many sunscreens do a much better job of blocking UVB wavelengths, which are the rays most responsible for sunburn and the two benign forms of skin cancer. Unfortunately, these UVB sunscreens do little to block the deeper penetrating UVA rays which are responsible for damaging DNA deep in the skin cells.

It is the UVA that is the key suspect in the development of melanoma and premature wrinkling.

In addition, many sunscreens contain oils that will oxidize when exposed to heat and UV radiation. This means that these conventional sunscreens not only do nothing to add antioxidant protection to the skin, they may even increase the free-radical stress and damage to the cells of the skin. With that said, here are the recommendations for choosing a sunscreen:

• Only choose sunscreens that are oil-free.
• Use sunscreens that contain antioxidants to protect the skin
• Choose sunscreens with botanical extracts that have proven to protect and repair DNA
  
• Choose sunscreens that block both UVA and UVB rays
• Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of 20 or higher

In recent years there has been much research around natural products for topical use in preventing sun damage. These natural products have been incorporated into a sunscreen that is produced by the Life Extension Foundation. These protective botanicals include:

• Watermelon Extract – A highly purified watermelon extract that has been shown to decrease DNA damage in the cells of the skin from UV exposure.
• Silymarin from milk thistle – This extract has been shown, in animal studies, to decrease the risk of skin cancers after UV exposure, by 75%.
• Green tea Polyphenols and Proanthocyanidins from Grape Seed Extract – These botanical extracts protect the skin from free-radicals, inflammation, and DNA damage.
• Beta Glucan – This is a specialized compound from whole grain oats that penetrate the skin to stimulate immune protection from UV damage while stimulating collagen production. This helps to speed healing of tissues, while providing an overall anti-aging effect to the cells of the skin.
• Rosemary – This spice provides additional and broad antioxidant benefits. In addition, rosemary is known to have anti-tumor activity like green tea and grape seed extract.
• Licorice Root Extract – This botanical is known to help soothe and heal damaged skin cells.

This formula, called Total Sun Protection Cream with Photo-Aging Recovery Complex, combines all of these potent natural ingredients with three powerful sunscreen agents that protect the skin against short-wave UVA, long-wave UVA and UVB rays. I have found no other formula that offers so much broad spectrum sunscreen and antioxidant protection.

How to Use Sunscreens for Most Benefit

Studies have shown that people generally only apply one-quarter of the sunscreen quantity that they need to gain the most benefit and protection. One study found that most people only apply sufficient sunscreen to achieve a 20-50% of the SPF that the product is labeled for. There is some evidence that this under-application, and the insufficient UVA protection of many conventional sunscreens, may be one reason for the lack of protection from melanoma reported in the research literature.

The general rule for proper sunscreen use is: “Apply generously and apply often!” It is better to overdo it than to under apply.

Even if you get a great sunscreen, if you do not apply it properly, you will not get the full benefit. Follow these guidelines to assure optimal protection.

• 15 Minutes BEFORE Sun Exposure Apply the Total Sun Protection Cream – It is important that we apply sunscreen 15-minutes before sun exposure to allow it to penetrate and dry before we start to sweat and expose ourselves to UV radiation. This will allow the botanical extracts and the antioxidants to penetrate where I believe they will provide protection for hours to come.
• Use One Full Ounce for the First Application – Most people do not apply enough sunscreen to fully protect. For the average sized body, apply one full ounce (a shot glass size) of sunscreen.
• Every 1-2 Hours Renew the Sunscreen by Spraying the Total Sun Protection Spray with Beta Glucan – Because the Total Sun Protection Cream is a bit costly, we apply this for the first application and then for the rest of the day we will renew with the Sun Protection Spray, which is far more cost-effective.
• Use the Sun Protection Spray Each and Every Time You Get Out of the Water or Sweat Heavily (such as if jogging). All sunscreens wash away with water that is why the FDA no longer allows a sunscreen to claim itself to be waterproof.

Protecting the Skin From the Inside Out:

As mentioned earlier, nutrition likely plays a key role in protecting the skin from sun damage. Dr. Zane Kime, in his book Sunlight, spoke specifically about vitamins A, C and E as well as selenium. All of these nutrients are quite important in protecting the skin, however, there are likely hundreds, if not thousands, of compounds that concentrate in the skin to act as a significant line of defense against sun damage and skin cancer. Such nutrients include:

• Carotenoids such as beta carotein, lutein, lycopene. These compounds are found in colorful fruits and vegetables
• Proanthocyanidins such as those found in grapes, berries and pine bark
• Polyphenols such as those found in teas, fruits and herbs
• Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, flaxseed, chia seeds and nuts

Food is obviously the most important source of these antioxidants and nutrients, however, for most people supplementation will offer additional insurance against the damaging effects of UV rays.

Getting a good multi-vitamin, essential fatty acid and green drink containing fruit and vegetable extracts is key in making sure enough nutrition is available to protect the skin. Berry and superfruit juices such as Acai juice can provide additional whole-food protection. See the Skin Protection Protocol for specific recommendations.

Introducing A Breakthrough Product For Protecting the Skin

For centuries, Native Americans have been using a special fern plant as a prevention and treatment of sunburn. When scientists caught wind of this, they began studying the herb to confirm these reported benefits. The scientists developed an extract of the fern plant Polypodium leucotomos which is now known as FernBlock.

Early research by Dr. Salvador Gonzalez found that patients receiving UV treatment for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis had nearly complete protection from the redness and burn created by the treatment. Dr. Gonzalez, fascinated by these results, took the extract to Harvard where he continued to research the fern extract for its ability to defend the skin from UV damage caused by sun exposure. Over the next decade research confirmed the protective benefits of this powerful herb, such benefits include:

• A seven-fold increase in the amount of UV light tolerated before damage occurred to the skin
• Important cancer-fighting cells beneath the skin were protected from UV damage
• Significant decrease in DNA damage after sun exposure by protecting vital enzymes responsible for DNA repair
• Inhibition of inflammation in the skin
• Blocked enzymes that are known to decrease skin elasticity
• Increased the antioxidant defenses of the skin

Due to the ability of the phytochemcials found in FernBlock to penetrate into the skin and offer broad spectrum protection, I am excited to be able to add this to our tool box for protecting the skin.

How to Use Polypodium Extract (FernBlock)

People at risk of skin cancer, especially those with a past history of skin cancer or who have fair skin may want to take one capsule daily as a preventative. The rest of us may want to reserve this supplement for when you know that you are going to be exposed to longer intervals of sunlight. For instance, if you’re going on a cruise or heading to the beach you may want to take 2 capsules daily a couple of days before you leave and 2 capsules daily while on your trip. The phytochemicals in FernBlock have a high affinity for skin cells and will concentrate in the skin fairly rapidly. Based on the research to date, FernBlock appears to provide protection the very same day it is taken.

Summary:

If I had to summarize this entire article in a couple of sentences I would say UV radiation is a real concern and protection must come from the inside out. Diet and lifestyle plays a key role in protecting you from premature skin aging and skin cancer. Sunscreen and topical antioxidants act as an additional line of defense and should be implemented. Below you will find the key bullet points of the article.

Key Points:

• Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, most are benign but we are seeing a significant rise in melanoma diagnosis.
• Sunscreen can offer protection, however, you must find a sunscreen that defends the skin against UVA and UVB radiation and offers additional antioxidant protection such as Total Sun Protection by Life Extension Foundation. After the first application of Total Sun Protection Cream, use the Total Sun Protection SPRAY to maintain the protection.
• Use a sunscreen with at least 20 SPF
• Make sure that you apply sunscreen generously and often to assure that you get the most protection.
• Nutrition is a critical factor in protecting the skin. Eat tons of fruits and vegetables. Drink teas such as green tea to enjoy extra antioxidant protection.
• Supplementation adds extra insurance against UV damage. Get a multi-vitamin, essential fatty acid and green drink such as Doctor’s For Nutrition Greens First.
• Use FernBlock starting a few days before significant sun exposure and during the sun exposure.

The sun’s rays contain ultraviolet radiation, a form of light that penetrates the skin and causes damaging compounds called free radicals to form in the skin. These free radicals lead to inflammation which causes the skin to redden and become painful.

In a nutshell…ultraviolet radiation causes free radicals which cause inflammation which turns the skin red and causes pain… Follow so far?

Just knowing that, you can now see that there are three areas which we can impact to prevent sunburn.

1. Stop the UV rays from striking the skin (sunblock)
2. Decrease the number of free radicals that are formed
3. Reduce the inflammatory reaction

First let’s talk about the blocking the sun. There are many sunscreens available on the market to absorb or deflect the UV rays. The importance of using sunscreen is somewhat controversial as no study has shown sunscreen to be an effective tool against the most lethal form of skin cancer, melanoma. It appears that skin cancer is as much an internal problem as it is an external problem. Some epidemiological research suggests that skin cancer is on the rise in countries such as Mexico where sun exposure has remained nearly constant. Is this an artifact of loss of the ozone layer? Although we cannot disregard this as a possibility, some scientists feel that there is more of a correlation to the dietary changes that have occurred over recent years, more on this later. While we are on the subject of sunscreen, follow these recommendations:

1. Never use tanning oils. When exposed to UV light, these oils quickly become damaged by free radicals and thus become rancid. This process browns the skin like a turkey but could result in significant damage to the DNA of the skin cells and may result in significant increases in cancer risk.

2. Use non-oil based sunscreen and make sure that the sunscreen blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

3. Choose a sunscreen that has antioxidants built into it in order to add extra protection to the skin. The sunscreen that we most commonly recommend is the Life Extensions Total Sun Protection Cream .

The second step in keeping the skin healthy and protected is to use an antioxidant supplement that will concentrate in the skin and protect it from free radicals that may form during exposure to UV light. One product stands above all other on this front. This formula is called Fernblock, an herbal formula that has been thoroughly tested and proven to not only act as an antioxidant defense but also a means of directly protecting the DNA of the skin cells from mutation. See the article Protecting Your Skin – A Guide to Sunproofing Your Skin for a more detailed discussion about sunscreen and FernBlock.

The final aspect of skin protection is the defense against exaggerated inflammation. Scientists discovered that certain compounds produced by the body called prostaglandins are the primary players in forming inflammation. After sun exposure a certain type of inflammatory prostaglandin called PGE2 is formed. This prostaglandin appears to be responsible for the reddening and pain caused by sunburn. Scientists also discovered that by supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids they could significantly lower the amount of PGE2 that forms in the skin while soaking up many of the free radicals that formed after sun exposure. This resulted in significant decreases in symptoms and enhanced tolerance to sun exposure.

I mentioned earlier that scientists found a correlation between dietary changes and an increased risk of skin cancer. The link appears to be with a decrease in omega-3 fatty acid content of the diet. As cultures eat fewer and fewer omega-3 fats and more omega-6 fats the risk of skin cancer appears to go up. It is now known that that omega-3 fats lower the amount of inflammatory PGE2 prostaglandins while diets high in omega-6 fats seem to increase it. This may prove to be one of the most important health discoveries of the decade. More research is needed, but for now I would accept it as truth.

One Final Note…

It is important to note that sun exposure is a necessary part of your health program. Exposure to the sun helps to keep sleep and wake cycle in balance which is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. In addition, sun exposure is the mechanism by which nature delivers vitamin D to our bodies. By completely avoiding sun exposure, we are literally setting ourselves up for many other conditions such as chronic insomnia, different forms of cancer, osteoporosis and even autoimmune conditions! Although I believe that some sun exposure is healthy, I also believe that roasting yourself in the sun is not so good. Most people can benefit from getting out and taking a walk in the sun on a daily basis but be sure to slowly acclimate to the sun. As the weather warms up, get out and get a few minutes of exposure and slowly increase this exposure as the weather continues to warm. The darker your natural skin color, the more sun exposure you will be able to tolerate before damage may occur. So if you are a lovely shade of “pasty white,” be very conservative at first and as a tan develops you can increase exposure.

For decades now Americans have been operating with the understanding that fats are bad and are to be avoided.  Those of us with high cholesterol, various heart conditions, or even just a family history of coronary artery disease are told to go on a “low fat” diet, avoiding all forms of fat if possible.  The first thing that we do if we desire to lose weight is to start avoiding fat in our diets.  Our grocery stores shelves are crowded with products that claim “no-fat” or “low-fat” on their labels.

Well, the truth is that there are good fats and there are bad fats.  There is no question that we have entirely too many fats (of the bad variety) in our diets.  The answer to our health needs is not to avoid fats completely, but to change the balance of the kinds of fats we consume in favor of the good fats.

Back in the 1950’s men, mostly in their forties and fifties, began having a new kind of heart attack… one that was caused by a blockage in the arteries around the heart.  Medical experts of the day realized that consuming too many saturated fats, mostly from meat in the diet, and not enough polyunsaturated fats were bad for the heart.  The food industry became awash in corn, safflower, peanut, sunflower and cottonseed oils.  These are all polyunsaturated, Omega-6 oils.

In the 1970’s it was discovered that consuming too many Omega-6 fats and not enough Omega-3 fats actually promotes all of the diseases that we have been trying to avoid… heart disease, allergies, asthma, autoimmune diseases, cancer, diabetes, depression, obesity, etc.

Eskimos that live in Greenland are known to be remarkably free of heart disease, in spite of the fact that they have a lot of fat in their diets.  The reason is that the fats that they consume are from the fish and shellfish that comprise their diets, mostly of the Omega-3 variety.  In 1997 a study revealed that for the first time in their history, the Japanese people are beginning to show a rise in all of the same diseases mentioned earlier, and this coincides with a rise in Omega-6 fat consumption that goes with their newly “Westernized” diet.

And the truth be told, historically, until relatively recent times, before food and water was transported by truck or train, people always settled near a lake, river or stream, and always had a fresh supply of fish or seafood as a staple in the diet.  Also, studies have verified that wild game has high levels of Omega-3 fats while domestically raised animals, fed differently than what they would eat in the wild, provide almost no Omega-3 fats.

Additionally, other foods that naturally supply Omega-3 fats have fallen out of favor in our industrialized society.  Walnuts and butternuts, rich sources of Omega-3s, have been replaced with cashews and peanuts, virtually bereft of Omega-3s.  Up until World War II flaxseeds and the oil from flaxseeds, which provide more Omega-3s than almost any other edible seed, were highly valued, but have since been replaced by other oils that offer no Omega-3s.  Of all known green, leafy vegetables, purslane is the richest source of Omega-3s.  In other countries purslane is considered a food, either as a salad green or a cooked vegetable, but here it is considered a weed.

The fatty acids in the body, including the Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty varieties, are used for production of many different components… possibly the most important being the prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that help regulate many functions in the body, including what every cell in the body allows in and out of it. The key is that too much production of certain ones, ones that stem from the Omega-6s, are responsible for the eventual clogging of the arteries that leads to the heart attacks so prevalent in our society today.

Doctors today commonly recommend some sort of mechanism to keep blood thinner rather than thicker.  The mechanism-du-jour is to take a baby aspirin every day.  Thromboxane is a prostaglandin that initiates the clotting mechanism in the body which, or course, is needed to keep us from bleeding to death from a cut.  But too much thromboxane can be responsible for abnormal clotting, or the tendency for blood to be too thick.  And it is the Omega-6 fats that lead to thromboxane over-production and the Omega-3 fats that reverse that trend.  Some researchers feel that Omega-3 fats from fish may serve as an alternate to aspirin for reducing clotting and preventing heart disease without any side effects.  Thromboxane is also a potent constrictor of arteries, again, a necessary action if one is cut and bleeding.  But the over-production of thromboxane, from the over-consumption of Omega-6 fats, can lead to chronic constricting of the arteries in the body, which shows up as high blood pressure.  Increasing Omega-3 fat intake can help relax and stretch out these blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.

Studies have indicated that certain fats can affect cancerous tumor growth in different ways.   Generally, fats high in Omega-6 fatty acids actually encourage tumor growth while fats high in Omega-3 fatty acids can block tumor growth.  And, apparently, this fact can even be more important than overall nutritional status, as demonstrated by a study done in South Africa comparing colon cancer rates of people in a small fishing village and similar people in Cape Town, an urban city. Even though the people in the city consumed twice the amount of fruits and vegetables, supplying the nutrients that are known to help prevent colon cancer like fiber, calcium and antioxidants, they had six times the incidence of colon cancer. The difference was the amount of Omega-3 fatty acids that the villagers consumed because fish was a staple in their diets, which translated into 3 times the amount of Omega-3s and considerably less Omega-6s in their blood.

The Omega-3 fatty acid known as DHA is the most prevalent fat in the brain and in the retina of the eye.  Many countries throughout the world require that DHA be added to baby formulas, but not in the United States.  As a fetus is developing in a mother’s body, DHA is transferred to the baby through the placenta from the mother’s supplies.  If the mother’s diet consists of too many Omega-6’s and not enough Omega-3’s then the baby cannot get all of its needs and eventually ends up suffering in its ability to develop optimally.  The same is true once the baby is born and is nursed… Mom’s diet needs to have more Omega-3’s.  A recent study has proven that babies that are supplemented with the Omega-3 fatty acid DHA end up having higher intelligence scores than babies who do not.  The Omega-3 fats have also been shown to improve Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (A.D.H.D.) and Autism in children and depression and even schizophrenia in adults.

So the bottom line is that in the Standard American Diet (SAD) we get entirely too many Omega-6 fatty acids and not enough Omega-3 fatty acids.  The answer is not to just stop the Omega-6 consumption.  In fact, I would challenge you to try… practically every prepared food that we eat has the polyunsaturated fats that we would need to avoid.  The answer is to lower the amounts of Omega-6s andsubstitute them with the Omega-3s.  By all means, increasing consumption of cold Atlantic fish will help, but realize that much of the fish at the grocery store these days is actually farmed, not caught wild, and eats differently than in the big ocean. And, of course, as is the case with other domestically raised animals, these fish end up having higher Omega-6 and lower Omega-3 levels.

Ultimately, I come to the conclusion with my patients that they need to supplement with fish oil and/or flax oil products.  Fish oil products, sometimes known as MaxEPA or EPA/DHA, come in different strengths and quality.  The oil should come from cold Atlantic fish (not farmed).  The higher strength products come with 300mg EPA and 200mg DHA per capsule, and the lesser strength would be 180mg/120mg.  There are also enteric-coated fish oil capsules for those who taste fish all day long from a lack of proper digestion.  There is also a company that has a patented process of getting the DHA from algae (like the fish do) for people who prefer a vegetarian source.  Flax oil can be found in the liquid oil or in gelcaps.  The process of pressing the seeds is vital to the integrity of the oil.  Flax oil cannot be heated.  The idea of “cold-pressing” is sort of a misnomer… the result of friction is heat, so the “pressing” that happens needs to be carried out in a very controlled environment so the oil quality is not effected.  I also prefer to use the “high lignan” flax oil.  The liquid needs to be refrigerated and only carries a shelf life of 3 months. The capsules are good for a year, or so.

As pharmacists, we have a responsibility to know the products available and have them for our patients.  Lastly, I think it is always important to practice what we preach… take you essential fatty acids!

References:

Erasmus U. Fats the Heal, Fats that Kill. 2^nd ed. Burnaby BC Canada: Alive Books; 1993.

Ensminger AH, Ensminger ME, Konlande JE, Robson JRK. Foods and Nutrition Encyclopedia. 2^nd ed. Vol 2. Boca Raton, FL: CRC Press, Inc; 1994.

Murray MT, Pizzorno GE. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. 2^nd ed.Rocklin, CA: Prima Publishing; 1996.

Shils ME, Olson JA, Shike M, Ross AC. Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease. 9^th ed. Baltimore, MD: Williams and Wilkens; 1999.

Different Types of Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis. Pain and stiffness during the course or normal activities may indicate the onset of osteoarthritis.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis. Pain with swelling, inflammation and stiffness in the joints bilaterally especially upon awakening is a sign of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Gout usually presents with abrupt onset of pain, often severe, in the toes (especially the big toe).
• Infectious arthritis is accompanied by fever, inflammation and tenderness. It is generally associated with another illness or injury.

What Causes Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is due to the general “wear and tear” on the body over time. There is a smooth, glassy, substance between the bones at a joint, called cartilage. As we age the cartilage is not regenerated as quickly resulting in a “wearing effect” that culminates in “bone on bone” contact.

Certain compounds called glucosaminoglycans (GAGs) are used as building blocks by the body to produce and maintain the cartilage of the joint. Studies have shown that two important GAGs, glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate, are indispensable in helping to stabilize the joint and improve symptoms associated with arthritis.

It is not uncommon for individuals to handle the increased pain and stiffness of arthritis by limiting movement; however, this is one of the worst options for osteoarthritis sufferers. Lack of motion only further stiffens joints and makes for increased pain on movement. Mild to moderate exercise will improve many factors that contribute to the problems associated with arthritis.

Synovial fluid is the lubricating material within the joint space; its two main roles are to lubricate and deliver nutrients. Two factors can determine the quantity and quality of the synovial fluid within the joint space; hydration status and the amount of a viscous compound called hyaluronic acid (HA). Even mild dehydration can cause the joints to dry up; thus, it is very important to drink plenty of water throughout the day. The HA is produced by the body and is found in high concentrations in the skin, joints and eyes. Babies have very high concentrations of HA when they are born, this high concentration of HA gives babies their characteristic soft skin. As we age, the concentrations of HA decrease which can promote dry and wrinkled skin and arthritis. In recent years, supplements containing HA have come to market and been shown to help lubricate the joints and skin.

As the arthritis continues to develop, the body senses the damage and inflammation begins to rear its ugly head. When inflammation is prolonged, it can actually increase the rate at which the cartilage of the joint degrades. Controlling inflammation is an important factor for stabilizing and improving arthritis.

Methods for improving the health of the joints:

1. Keep well hydrated. Drinking water can help moisten joints, providing greater ease of movement. Most of the beverages the average American consumes actually promote dehydration. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, which can dry up joints and promote joint problems. Drink a minimum of 8-12 glasses of water daily, add a bit of lemon or lime for flavor if you prefer.
2. Quell Inflammation. As well as being a major culprit in joint pain, it is a known promoter of many other diseases. There are several ways to decrease inflammation in the body. First, Omega 3 fatty acids are very beneficial. Fish oils are great sources of omega 3s and will contribute to overall joint health. The recommended dose is 1800 mg EPA and 1200 mg of DHA per day. In addition, an herbal anti-inflammatory, such as Zyflamend , will reduce inflammation and swelling that contribute to both pain and stiffness. The recommended dose is 2 capsules twice daily.
3. Provide the Building Blocks. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are two very important materials for healthy cartilage. As we age, our cells decrease their capacity to produce these important building blocks. Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplements have proven useful in numerous studies, with some studies actually suggesting that glucosamine and chondroitin may actually stop the progression of the disease in its tracks. The recommended dose of glucosamine sulfate is 1500 mg per day along with 1200 mg of chondroitin sulfate. NOTE: If you are overweight, it is recommended that you add 500 mg more of glucosamine and 400 mg more of chondroitin.
4. Enhance the Lubrication. As we mentioned, hyaluronic acid is available as a nutritional supplement and can be an indispensable supplement for those afflicted with osteoarthritis. The recommended dose is 200 mg per day for one month, followed by 100 mg per day thereafter.

by Dr. Ray Hinish, Pharm.D., C.N., CPT and Hunter Thompson, M.Ac., L.Ac.

By Ray Hinish, Pharm.D., CPT, LWMC

www.illnessisoptional.com | 410-356-2169

What you will learn:

• Why colds and flu seem to strike during cold weather. (Hint: The cold weather doesn’t cause cold!)
• Why you should NOT get the flu vaccine.
• What the New York Garbage Strike has to do with the flu.
• A powerful herbal supplement that can safeguard you against the negative effects of stress.
• The most important flu preventing supplement on the market (Hint: It costs pennies a day)
• Why regular old vitamin C won’t do and which form of vitamin C to choose!
• My Top supplement picks for preventing the flu.
• What you can do in the next 60 seconds that may dramatically improve your primary defenses and prevent cold and flu.

As you know, the newspapers and government health agencies have begun pushing the theoretical benefits of the flu vaccine.  These organizations suggest that the flu vaccine is completely safe and wildly effective without offering a shred of proof to either argument.  They suggest that this super villain, called the flu, mysteriously rears its ugly head during the months of October through January and supposedly kills 10,000 people every year. Sure enough, people herd like “sheeple” to the local Wal-Mart where nurses poke away at people’s arms and send them on their way with a false sense of security.

Is all of this true?

Do the influenza viruses really take a nap through the spring and summer months only to wake up with the dastardly intention to make us all sick in October through January? Does it really kill 10,000 people every year? Is the flu vaccine really helpful?

The simple answer is “No” on all counts. The influenza virus does not take a nap, it does not kill 10,000 people every year and the flu vaccine is generally not helpful. We will talk about why the flu hits during these months in the paragraphs below. As to the 10,000 per year death rate, the CDC lumps flu and pneumonia into the same statistic, one that is quoted by newspapers all over the United States. What this means is that 10,000 people per year die from flu and pneumonia together and the majority of these people perish from pneumonia, which is labeled as a “complication” of flu. In addition, those people who die are usually people who may be nearing death anyway. They include those with other severe and chronic illnesses, people with poor immune function, as well as unhealthy seniors who reside in nursing homes. If you are in this group, then you may need to worry about catching the flu and subsequently developing pneumonia. If you are not in this group then the flu will likely mean a few days of discomfort and a few days off from work; not ideal, but a whole lot better than impending death! You should also know that this year’s vaccine combines the standard influenza vaccine with the H1N1 vaccine.

The second question is, “does the flu vaccine work?” and the answer is “we don’t know for sure” but probably NOT! Because the flu vaccine is a “best guess” medication, there is a bit of a gamble on whether or not we will vaccinate against the right bugs. Sometimes we get it right and sometimes we get it wrong but you can rest assured that the cards are stacked against us.

Let me reiterate an important point, the influenza virus exists in the population year round while influenza (the flu) seems to rear its symptomatic little head during the months of October through January. Now, let me tell you a true story.

RECAP: The flu vaccine is a “best guess” medicine – meaning we can never say for sure that it will be beneficial. Recent research shows that there is little if any benefit to getting the annual flu vaccine. In addition, the flu vaccine contains a significant amount of mercury that can cause nerve and brain problems that may not show up until years or even decades later. Some research suggests that those who get a yearly vaccine are at increased risk of Alzheimers.

The New York Garbage Strike and the Flu

Years ago, garbage men and women went on strike in New York. Needless to say, it wasn’t long before the trash piled up. The city looked like a wasteland with mountains of trash appearing on practically every corner. Shortly thereafter, the rats arrived. Big, fat, hairy rats took over the city, seemingly invading as though they had been patiently building an occupying force underneath the streets over the years, waiting for the day that the garbage people would go on strike. So, here is the million-dollar question…

Did the rats bring the trash?

Of course not! The trash brought the rats. The rats were a symptom of poor trash management. Allow me to challenge you with another question; would it be a successful course of action to try exterminating the rats? The answer again is “no” (by the way, they tried without success) because as long as there is trash on the streets then rats will come much faster than we can get rid of them. The solution is to get rid of the trash and the rats will go shortly thereafter! So how does this apply to the cold and flu? Simple, don’t fill your body and life with trash and the bugs that cause sickness will not be able to grow!

Stress: The Great Immune System Poison and What to do About It

Stress is perhaps one of the most important factors in health and is not given nearly the attention it deserves in a balanced lifestyle. Chronic stress causes the immune system to shut down, which opens the door for infection. Stress begins with the Halloween season where we choke down enough sugar and artificial colors and flavors to send a horse into diabetic shock. We know that sugar poisons the immune system and this may be a reason why the cold and flu season begins in October.

If you make it through the Halloween period without getting sick we are greeted at October’s exit by the Thanksgiving season, which again involves stuffing our faces with high sugar and high fat foods. Then after we are fattened up like turkeys for the Thanksgiving season, in rolls the Christmas/Hanukkah season full of more stress and sugary treats. And finally, let’s top off this triple layered stress season with the cherry on top… New Year’s. Is it any wonder why the flu season peaks in January? Maybe this isn’t the whole story, but you can rest assured it certainly sets the table and invites the flu in for dinner!

Stress acidifies the system and poisons the immune system. It depletes the body of vital nutrients, kills the good bacteria in your gut, ruins digestion and fills your body with stress hormones that turn immune system off. I realize that you cannot always get away from the stress, however, you can learn to cope with stress in a different way and there are supplements that will help your body adapt to stress in a much healthier way. Herbs, called adaptogens, help to balance the biochemistry of the body during stressful times. Vital Adapt is an herbal liquid tincture that combines some of the most powerful adaptogens on the market. An adaptogen is an herbal complex that works within the body to normalize the stress hormones and bring the body back into balance. This means that you will respond better, feel more focused, have a stronger immune system and sleep better at night even though you may have an excessive amount of stress in your life. The recommended dosage is 2 droppersful two to three times daily. You can increase the dose to 3 droppersful three times daily during heavy stress. If you enjoy a good book, I would recommend the book How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie. This book is one of my favorites on the subject of stress and worry.

Bottom Line: Stress poisons the immune system. To decrease the impact of stress on your life use the tools taught in the book “How to Stop Worrying and Start Living” by Dale Carnegie, use Vital Adapt herbal tincture daily (2 droppersful twice daily).

Now let’s discuss products that will work to keep the rest of the body healthy during the cold and flu season. First, vitamin C plays an important role in keeping the white blood cells healthy (white blood cells contain more vitamin C than any other cell in the body). Whole-food vitamin C is preferred over ascorbic acid supplements. Sources of whole food vitamin C include rose hips and a rainforest herb called camu camu. I recommend a whole food formula called Pure Radiance C by The Synergy Company; each capsule contains 120 mg of true whole food vitamin C complex. The term “vitamin C” and “ascorbic acid” are often used interchangeably; however, in nature vitamin C is much more complex than just a molecule of ascorbic acid. In fact, ascorbic acid is a small fraction of the true vitamin C molecule. Whole food vitamin C is much more potent and requires smaller quantities to obtain an equal or better result than ascorbic acid supplements. The recommended dose is 2 capsules twice daily year round.

The Most Important Flu-Preventing Supplement on the Market

Starting in October, sun exposure drops significantly which depletes vitamin D levels. The levels are likely at their lowest near the end of December. Vitamin D is most popular for its role in keeping bones strong; however, a lesser-known role of vitamin D is in the immune system. When vitamin D levels are low your risk of infection increases significantly! This considerable drop in vitamin D during these cold and flu months may be a significant cause to the higher rate of viral infection and recent research confirms this link. One paper published in a recent issue of Journal of Hygiene suggests that the vitamin D/influenza connection explains the following observations:

1.       Flu rates are highest after the winter solstice and virtually disappear after the summer solstice

2.       Children who are exposed to sunlight have lower incidence of influenza

3.       Influenza is most common in peoples of the tropics during the rainy season

4.       The colder the temperature outside the higher the rate of influenza infection

5.       The elderly who live in areas of highest vitamin D intake are less likely to die in the winter

6.       Why cod liver oil (a source of vitamin D) protects against respiratory infection

7.       Why African Americans are more likely to die of influenza and pneumonia than Caucasians. (African Americans produce less vitamin D due to the higher pigment in skin)

The recommended dose of vitamin D is 2,000 – 4,000 iu during the winter season. Our goal is to increase blood levels to 50-80 micrograms per deciliter.

Top Supplements for Preventing the Cold and Flu

There are three specialty supplements that can be added to your arsenal of cold and flu fighting tools. They are especially good for prevention of cold and flu. The first is a homeopathic flu vaccine called Influenzinum. This homeopathic product uses the flu vaccine to make an extremely dilute formula, which can convey all of the benefits of the vaccine without the side effects. By gently nudging the immune system into action against the flu virus, Influenzinum keeps the body’s defenses mobilized. We have used this formula for many years and have received a lot of positive feedback regarding its efficacy.

The second product is a brand new version of a very old remedy for cold and flu. The product, called Immunity Take Care, is produced by New Chapter and is used to protect the body from all enveloped viruses such as the influenza virus. By binding to and inactivating the influenza virus, this nasty bug is unable to enter the cell for reproduction. This halts the infection and allows the immune system plenty of time to scoop up the neutralized the influenza bugs for disposal. Immunity Take Care uses a special extract of the Elderberry herb in a lozenge form. The recommended dosage is 1 -2 lozenges daily for prevention and 2-4 tablets daily for active flu infection.

The final product, which is especially for people who have a stubborn immune system, I recommend a formula called Pure Defense with NAC by Pure Encapsulations. This product combines some very powerful supplements for supporting immune function and respiratory health. The ingredients of this formula include:

• Vitamin D 2,000 iu: One of nature’s most important vitamins for immune function and respiratory defense
• Epicor: A fermented yeast product that stimulates immune function. Research suggests that this product can decrease the onset of cold and shorten its duration.
• Elderberry: Acts as a first line of defense against infection from enveloped viruses.
• Zinc: A deficiency of this vital mineral can prevent the immune cells from functioning on all cylinders.

The recommended dose for this formula is 2 capsules twice daily throughout the season. I personally feel that this formula offers the most comprehensive support to the immune system during the cold and flu season.

How to Shore Up Your Primary Defenses in the Next 60 Seconds

Your mucous membranes make up your primary defenses against invading organisms. These mucous secretions contain many different defense factors that bind to and inactivate viruses and bacteria that are trying to sneak in through the nose, mouth or eyes. Unfortunately, these mucous membranes are the first to dry up when the body’s water supplies are low. We have discovered that most people do not drink enough to keep this primary defense functioning optimally. To add insult to injury, we turn on the heaters in our home, which produces dry heat that further dries up the mucous membranes and inhibits proper mucous flow. The one thing that you can do in the next 60 seconds to significantly improve your primary defenses is drink a couple glasses of water and maintain this hydration by sipping at it throughout the day!

Final Conclusions:

1.       The flu is not as dangerous as the press and the medical community makes you think.

2.       The flu vaccine is not nearly as effective as you are led to believe and may even cause significant side effects.

3.       How healthy you are, your internal terrain, determines your risk of cold or flu. The bug (virus or bacteria) is the least of your worries. They cannot thrive in a healthy system.

4.       Control stress because stress is a potent poison to the immune system. If stress is a big problem, take Vital Adapt, 2 capsules twice daily.

5.       Use whole food vitamin C such as Pure Radiance C by The Synergy Company. Two capsules two to three times daily.

6.       For further protection use Immune System Take Care by New Chapter (1 tablet dissolved in mouth one to two times daily) to add an additional level of defense against viruses.

7.       Pure Defense with NAC is a great way to stimulate immune function throughout the season. This formula is the most comprehensive and is taken 2 capsules twice daily.

8.       Drink plenty of water to keep your mucous membranes healthy. These membranes are your primary defenses against offending organisms.

The bottom line is that cold and flu is optional this season! There are many things that we can do to promote health and ward off disease. By eating healthy, exercising, controlling stress and supplementing properly it is entirely possible to get through this season without using even one sick day!

For more tips and articles, visit us at www.illnessisoptional.com. Visit our wellness center, Your Prescription for Health at 10210 S. Dolfield Road, Owings Mills, MD 21117. 410-356-2169

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Have you ever stopped to wonder who taught a monkey what to eat? I realize that you are here to learn about the benefits of potassium, bare with me a moment, I promise I will give you the answer. for now,, back to the monkey question, it will all make sense in a second…

I am willing to bet that you’ve never given it much thought because, admittedly, the question is quite ridiculous. Monkeys just seem to know what to eat. Through this mysterious force we call “instinct”, most animals exit the womb and just know exactly what to put in their mouths.

Although humans are more than animals, we do have instincts, like our monkey ancestors.

In recent years scientists have been trying to understand what man consumed when we didn’t have government agencies to tell us what to eat. During this time, approximately 50,000 to 100,000 years ago, Paleolithic man was comprised of hunters and gatherers who consumed a diet motivated by instinct. Then approximately 10,000 years ago began the Neolithic Revolution.

The Grand Mistake

During this new age of human development; we adopted more of an agriculture and animal husbandry practice. I imagine this is about the time when those nasty little creatures called “food scientists” came into existence. A “food scientist” is someone who thinks they can make food better, tastier, and more nutritious than nature.

Although the study of the Paleolithic lifestyle is quite complex, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what kinds of foods our ancestors consumed. It’s no surprise to see that most experts in the area of Paleolithic eating suspect that these people consumed primarily fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and some wild game. If you’re reading this list and feel that this is common sense, that “knowing” that you are experiencing is the remnant of your Paleolithic instinct.

Our abandonment of the Paleolithic way has resulted in a number of harmful and even life-threatening nutrient deficiencies…

Potassium Deficiency and the Benefits of Potassium

One nutrient that many scientists believe was much more abundant in our diet during Paleolithic times was potassium.

The Stone Age humans likely consume approximately 15 grams of potassium on a daily basis. Compare that to the recommended daily allowance of 4.7 grams per day. A ridiculously low level, I may add, that most of us never achieve.

In addition to a deficiency of potassium, the average American consumes a large excess of sodium. The sodium to potassium ratio is important for proper function of the body; when this ratio gets imbalanced the body suffers. Our Stone Age ancestors only consumed less than a gram of sodium (0.6 g) and it is estimated that the average American now consumes approximately 3.5 g of sodium and an embarrassing 2.8 g of potassium.

Why Should We Be Concerned With Our Sodium/Potassium Balance?

The balance of sodium and potassium is crucial for the function many cellular systems; some signs of potassium deficiency include:

1. Fatigue
2. Heart arrhythmias
3. Heart failure
4. Muscle weakness
5. Constipation
6. Delayed emptying of the stomach

Isn’t Potassium Dangerous?

Contrary to popular belief, potassium is a safe nutrient when taken properly. In healthy adults without heart or kidney problems, daily potassium intake should not exceed 8 grams.

If you suffer with kidney and/or heart disease, or you are on certain medications for blood pressure, potassium toxicity can occur at lower dose. For this latter group, ask your doctor before taking potassium supplements.

When supplementing with potassium, you must take into account how much potassium you are taking in through diet. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, legumes are all good sources of potassium. It is possible to get sufficient potassium levels from your diet, however, it requires discipline and a hefty appetite for fruits and vegetables.

For the rest of us, supplementation may be required in order to achieve healthy potassium levels.

Who’s At Risk of Potassium Deficiency?

Before we get into the benefits of potassium, let’s talk about the risks of potassium deficiency.

It is important to realize that certain lifestyle habits, medications, and conditions can lead to an increased risk of potassium deficiency, these include:

1. The use of diuretics
2. Diarrhea or vomiting
3. Chronic dieting
4. Chronic kidney failure
5. Magnesium deficiency
6. Strenuous exercise

Keep these variables in mind when considering supplementation. See our Daily Potassium Requirements for Optimal Health for more information on supplementing with potassium.

What Are the Benefits of Potassium?

Potassium is essential for regulating fluid balance, acidity within the body, blood pressure, and muscle function. There are numerous outward benefits of supplementing with potassium, including:

1. Lowering blood pressure – An analysis of 33 published studies have demonstrated potassium supplementation to be of benefit in people who suffer with hypertension. The effective dose used in the research was 2,400 mg daily. (JAMA 1997;277:1624–32
2. Protection from Cardiac Arrhythmias – Studies show that people with low potassium levels are at a heightened risk of arrhythmia. Supplementation with 1,000 mg of potassium was shown to decrease the risk of arrhythmias in people who were prescribed a potassium-depleting blood pressure medication called hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). (Int J Cardiol 1989;25:93–8)
3. Prolonged life and Improved Quality of life – One study demonstrated that men who consumed high levels of potassium had a longer life. More importantly, those with higher potassium intake enjoyed an improved quality of life. See the article: Potassium for a Longer and Healthier Life – Benefits of Potassium for Seniors
4. Improved energy – Electrolytes, such as potassium, can allow the body to manufacture needed energy. Potassium deficiency can cause physical and mental exhaustion.
5. End to muscle cramps and charlie horses – Potassium deficiency can promote muscle cramps, as can calcium or magnesium deficiency.