Summer Supplement Clearance

Many of our supplements are on summer clearance so you can stock up on your favorites, or try a new supplement at low cost!

Improve ovarian function naturally

Chi-F is an herbal formula that naturally adjusts hormone levels. Containing Astragalus membranaceus, Angelica sinensis, Panax ginseng, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Glycyrrhiza, Cyperus rotundus, Rehmannia glutinosa, paeonia lactiflora, Dioscorea and Rhizoma chuanxiong, it is effective for menstrual problems, decreased ovarian function, and blood deficiency.

Chi-F has been used for pain both prior and during menstrual periods with a success rate of 90%. It has been especially useful for women with frequent cold sensation and Chi (Qi) deficiency. As a hormone replacement product, it is also excellent for relieving menopausal and/or PMS symptoms. Chi-F has been used for abnormal uterine bleeding following intrauterine device removal, resulting in a 93% rate of effectiveness. In addition, irregular menstruation, especially after delivery, has also been managed by this herbal blend, resulting in a 75% rate of effectiveness.

In another study, female mice were tested and shown to have an increased uterine mass overall following the administration with Chi-F, and male mice were shown to have increased testes. Groups of mice were given Chi-F and then compared to the control groups whose organs were weighed and measured as standards. Test groups were shown to have an average increase of 15-20% in organ mass.



Ingredients
Rehmannia glutinosa, Angelica sinensis, Cyperus rotandus, Dioscorea opposita Thunb, Paeonia lactiflora, Panax ginseng, Saliva multirrhiza, Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort, Astragalus membranaceus Bge, Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch

Suggested Use
10-15 Pills Per Day. 2-3 times a day after meals

Bariatric Surgery Supplements

While weight loss surgery can and does change lives for the better, it requires lifelong lifestyle changes. This includes taking supplements of important vitamins and nutrients to stave off deficiencies that can be caused by the surgery.

Some bariatric surgeries — such as gastric bypass, biliopancreatic diversion (BPD) and duodenal switch (BPDDS) — work by malabsorption, meaning that the body blocks the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. This can result in serious nutritional shortfalls. Other restrictive procedures — such as Lap Band — also may cause nutritional shortfalls because people can no longer eat certain types of food and must restrict the volume of those foods that they can tolerate.

Nutritional needs vary based on the individual as well as the type of surgery, but here's a primer on your post-bariatric surgery nutritional needs.

Multivitamins

Most bariatric surgeons will suggest a daily multivitamin after weight loss surgery. However, multivitamins alone may not meet your specific nutritional needs. Talk to your doctor to see if you have to supplement your supplement.

Tip: Chewable and liquid multivitamins are the most easily absorbed, and are recommended after all bariatric surgery procedures. They are also less likely to cause heartburn and ulcers after gastric banding and gastric bypass surgery.

Protein

You must consume sufficient amounts of protein after bariatric surgery. Protein speeds wound healing, preserves lean body mass and enhances fat-burning. Most registered dieticians (RDs) recommend eating high protein foods first to avoid becoming too full, too fast, and not having room later on. Most people need to eat approximately four ounces (or more) of protein each day. Specific recommendations vary. Talk to your doctor or an RD.

Iron

Anemia is common in the months and years following weight loss surgery. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia after bariatric surgery. This risk is heightened after gastric bypass and other malabsorptive surgeries in women who are still menstruating, and in the super-obese (body mass index of 50 or above). Some people may need more than what is found in their multivitamin.

Vitamin B12

Most multivitamins do not contain adequate levels of B12. Some surgeons may suggest (and offer) monthly vitamin B12 shots. Others may recommend 500 micrograms of B12 taken under the tongue (sublingually) daily. These are readily available at many drug stores. Regardless of the form, vitamin B12 may help boost your metabolism, and enhance your weight loss efforts as you begin your life after bariatric surgery.

Folate

Folate or folic acid is another B-vitamin. Folic acid is known to prevent neural tube defects in pregnant women. It also prevents anemia, certain cancers and heart disease. Your multivitamin should contain 400 to 800 micrograms of folate. Ask your doctor if you need more. Foods that are rich in folic acid include leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, berries and melon, dried beans, peas and nuts. Enriched breads, cereals and other fortified grain products also contain folic acid.

Calcium

Calcium is important for bone health. After weight loss surgery, you may be at risk for the brittle bone disease osteoporosis and related fractures. This is a direct result of the nature of the surgeries. To compensate, most surgeons recommend a diet rich in calcium, combined with 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams of calcium supplements, split into two doses and taken twice daily. Older women may require more calcium.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D aids the absorption of calcium, which is needed to build strong bones after weight loss surgery. It is known as the sunshine vitamin because the human body produces it only when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D also is added to multivitamins and milk.

Vitamin D deficiency is linked to a host of chronic diseases, including certain cancers, heart disease, osteoporosis, stroke, diabetes, immune system problems and inflammatory diseases. What's more, obesity increases risk of Vitamin D deficiency.

Recommendations for vitamin D supplements are tiered based on blood levels. Most surgeons recommend supplementation starting at 2,000 international units per day. Get tested to see where you stand.

Additional supplements to consider:

People with heart disease can consider Coenzyme Q10
People with joint pain can consider glucosamine
Antioxidant juices like pomegranate, goji, blueberry, acai, etc...
Fish Oil for mood and heart health

Hair growth herbal support for hormonal imbalances

Hair loss affect about 70% of women during perimenopause. The symptoms of perimenopause usually last for the whole menopause transition (until the mid 50's), but some women may experience them for the rest of their life. Menopause is not an illness, but a natural process in a woman's body. The symptoms of menopause are just indicators of changes between the hormones estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. These changes result in a hormonal imbalance in a woman's body and cause the common menopause symptoms. A woman can experience hair loss during other parts of her life also, hormonal imbalance is not always limited to the menopausal transition. Even men experience hair loss during andropause.

Hair loss occurs when the diet is inadequate in the B vitamins - especially B6, biotin, inositol and folic acid; and the minerals magnesium, sulfur and zinc. The B vitamins, especially B5 (pantothenic acid and B3 (niacin), are especially important for hair growth.

Certain essential amino acids are found to control the thinning and thickening of hair in laboratory animals. For example, when rats were fed a diet deficient in magnesium, they lost their hair in bunches. The situation was even more serious with some other B-vitamins. When rats were fed a diet low in biotin or inositol, they became hairless! This nutrient-deficient condition was found to be reversible. When the rats were fed a diet that was rich in B vitamins, it resulted in the complete restoration of hair.

Heavy intake of vitamin supplements, in some cases, have resulted in stimulating hair growth. Men deficient in vitamin B6 often lose their hair. When they are deficient in folic acid, some men became completely bald! As in case of animals, when normal intake of theses vitamins were restored, the hair also returned in most instances.

If your hair loss begins around the onset of menopause, you can maintain hormonal balance (and hence hair thickness) with herbs containing plant-based estrogens, such as dong quai (Angelica sinensis) or ashwaganda (Withania somnifera), suggests Linda Page, N.D., Ph.D., a naturopath and author of Healthy Healing (Healthy Healing Publications, 1997). Other herbs that exert mild estrogenic effects include damiana (Turnera diffusa), black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and sage (Salvia officinalis).

Some people believe that hair loss is a result of bad genes and stress. These may be true at some point but a healthier and thicker hair won’t just fall off your scalp just like that, right? There are lots of vitamins out there that can make your hair and nails thicker and your skin firmer. Why not start early and naturally thicken your hair strands before they start to get thin and fine?

For example, B vitamins—namely B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, biotin, folic acid, and so on can effectively prevent hair loss if taken regularly. Did you know that the majority of hair loss happens when a person’s diet is deficient in B vitamins? B vitamins are essential for hair regrowth, hair strengthening, and overall hair health, including scalp health. Without B vitamins, old and brittle hair will shed and no new hair follicles are made to replace fallen hair.

Other vitamins and minerals that are important to hair loss prevention include Vitamin A, C, and E and trace minerals such as manganese and zinc. Zinc stimulates hair growth by enhancing our body’s immune function. Vitamin E helps in better blood circulation all over our body, including our scalp. The more freshly oxygenated blood that passes through our scalp, the more the scalp can stimulate hair growth. Manganese controls levels of calcium, which in huge uncontrolled numbers can lead to hair loss.

If there’s one thing in nature that contains all of the above vitamins and minerals that are needed to prevent hair loss, it’s none other than the Acai Berry! Yes, it is one of today’s “super fruits” because of its abundant content of essential vitamins, minerals, and other bio-nutrients.

Essential fatty acids (flaxseed oil, primrose oil, and salmon oil are good sources) improves hair texture. Prevents dry, brittle hair. (Found in Female Balance and Fish oil)

Vitamin C aids in improving scalp circulation. It is important to maintain capillaries that carry blood to the follicles. (Found in Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate)


Vitamin E increases oxygen uptake, which improves circulation to the scalp. It improves health and growth of hair. Since hair health is tied to the immune health, vitamin E is believed to stimulate hair growth by enhancing the immune function. (Found in Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate)

Deficiency in zinc can contribute a lot to hair shedding because without zinc and other related minerals, you hair shafts get weakened, causing hair breakage and very slow hair regrowth. Zinc benefits for hair include promotion of cell reproduction, tissue growth and repair of broken tissues. It also maintains the oil-secreting glands that are attached to your hair follicles, thus decreasing their chances of falling off. (Zinc is found in Octovite)

Coenzyme Q10 - Improves scalp circulation. Increases tissue oxygenation. It is also very important for heart health. (Found in Fish Oil/Coenzyme Q10)


Incorporating green tea into your diet may help combat or help prevent hair loss. One of the most powerful antioxidants in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Studies conducted by the Saitama Cancer Center Research Institute in Japan and the Seoul National University College of Medicine both show evidence that EGCG stimulates hair growth. (Found in Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate)

Ginkgo Biloba has been in use in China for more than 5 centuries, from last 2 decades even Europe is widely using this tree's extracts for various purposes. Ginkgo Biloba possess special property of helping regulate the blood circulation in a body, when the extract is taken. The use of Ginkgo Biloba will boost the blood flow to the peripheral parts of the body and the fine capillaries, both of which indicates scalp as one of the parts. The increased circulation will hence bring more oxygen and more nutrients to the scalp, these nutrients are basically essential vitamins A and E along with some other important nutrients which are in our blood after digestion but are not transported to the right place to act, just because of lack of circulation. So when a hair follicle gets it right amount of oxygen and necessary nutrients it will automatically start hair repair and will promote hair growth. (Octovite contains Gingko Biloba)

If your previous hair growth remedies have not worked, consider a vitamin and herbal combination therapy. Hair loss can be a feature of adrenal fatigue and hypothyroidism, which are other hormonal imbalances. Be sure to consult your practitioner to rule out treatable causes of your hair loss.


Maqui Resveratrol Acai Ultimate has Vitamins A,C,E and Green Tea (and many other ingredients)

Female Balance has Dong Quai, Damiana, Flaxseed, Magnesium and Vitamins A, B, C and E (and many other ingredients)

Rhodigandha contains Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, Acai, Pomegranate, Blueberry, and Bilberry



Octovite contains Omega, Gingko Biloba, Zinc, vitamins A,C,E (and many other ingredients)

Autoimmune Thyroid diseases and their natural treatment

 If you have been tested for thyroid antibodies and the test came out positive, and if you are experiencing some accompanying symptoms, then this most likely means that you have or are developing an autoimmune thyroid condition. This is true even if other thyroid blood tests are negative, as it’s important to understand that in most cases, the autoimmune condition will develop first, and will eventually lead to malfunctioning of the thyroid gland. This might seem to be confusing to those people with Graves’ Disease and Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis who consider their condition to be a thyroid disorder.

 Even though they are frequently referred to as autoimmune thyroid disorders, they are really autoimmune conditions that lead to thyroid malfunction. In other words, the malfunctioning thyroid gland is usually not the actual cause of the disorder in an autoimmune thyroid condition. This is why it is not uncommon to see positive thyroid antibodies without having a positive TSH, T3, T4, etc.

 How does this process develop?

 What usually happens is that over a period of years, someone will develop an autoimmune condition that will trigger the thyroid antibodies to attack the thyroid gland. Why this happens isn’t fully known, although there are numerous factors that are thought to contribute to the development of an autoimmune condition (poor eating habits, chronic stress, exposure to environmental toxins, etc.) In any case, when the thyroid antibodies go on to damage the thyroid gland, this will eventually lead to the development of a thyroid condition, and thus is the reason for the positive thyroid blood tests. What’s important to understand is that in order to improve any of these conditions, one needs to address the actual cause of the disorder. This is where conventional medicine fails, as most conventional medical treatments are aimed at managing the symptoms of the malfunctioning thyroid gland. For example, someone with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis will almost always be told to take synthetic or natural thyroid hormone for the rest of their life, but nothing will be done to correct the autoimmune response. So the person will take thyroid hormone daily to help with the symptoms while their thyroid gland continues to be damaged by the thyroid antibodies. When choosing nutritional supplements for Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis you need to keep in mind that not only are you trying to restore the function of your thyroid gland but just as important you need to strengthen your immune system. And in most cases the adrenal glands and/or other areas of the body are affected as well. In fact many healthcare professionals including myself agree that it is more important to focus on boosting the immune system before directly treating the thyroid gland. One reason for this is because a weakened immune system is a big reason why many people develop Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis in the first place.

It is also important to know that it usually takes more than just ingesting nutritional supplements to strengthen one’s immune system. Here are five rules to follow that will help to boost your immune system as well as help maintain the health of other areas of the body:

Rule #1: Eat healthy most of the time.
Rule #2: Take quality nutritional supplements.
Rule #3: Get at least 8 hours of quality sleep each night
Rule #4: Manage stress effectively
Rule #5: Exercise regularly


If you have Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis and do these five things with consistency over time you will strengthen your immune system which will help with your recovery. In addition this will also help prevent other autoimmune conditions from developing in the future which is very common with people who have Hashimoto’s. The reason for this is because most people simply take synthetic thyroid hormone for the rest of their lives and never address the immune system component. So if you focus on strengthening your immune system then in addition to restoring the function of your thyroid gland you are much more likely to stay healthy in the future.


The most important mineral supplements for anyone with Hashimoto's disease are listed below. A good multi-mineral supplement is likely to include all of these elements, but you may need to supplement some individually to correct particular deficiencies.



Selenium
This is the key supplement for anyone with Hashimoto’s disease. Research suggests that selenium deficiency may play a significant part in the development of the disease, and that supplementation with selenium can significantly reduce the level of autoimmune anti-bodies – sometimes to a normal level within three months. (1)

It has also been found to improve the inflammatory activity in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis, and it activates an enzyme that is responsible for the conversion of T4 (inactive thryoxine) to T3 (the active form that releases energy into the cells and body). This means that Levothyroxine treatment will not work correctly in anyone who is deficient in selenium.

Recommended supplementation is 200 mcg per day; note that this dose should not be exceeded, as selenium is toxic at fairly low levels (over 400mcg/day).



Fish Oils
Fish oils exert a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, and even more importantly have been found to help normalize the metabolic environment.(2) They have been found to lessen symptoms and slow the progress of several autoimmune diseases.(3) Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) extracted from fish oil may be as effective as some prescription medications in reducing inflammation.
Octovite contains omega 3 500 mg and zinc


Zinc
Zinc is necessary for proper hypothalamic functioning, which is part of the thyroid “loop” – the thyroid works in conjunction with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to regulate the metabolic system. It is needed by the thyroid for hormone production and for T4–T3 conversion (converting from the inactive to active form of the hormone). Zinc should always be balanced out with a small amount of copper. In tests, many people with a hypothyroid condition have been found to have lower plasma zinc levels.



B12
Autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s are associated with B12 deficiency (especially in cases where the patient has raised antibodies against their gastric parietal cells, which produce B12). This can result in pernicious anaemia, a condition in which the body is unable to produce enough blood cells. The symptoms of B12 deficiency are wide-ranging, from tiredness and headaches to chest pain and a strangely sore mouth (especially the roof of the mouth). The amount of B12 included in a multi-vitamin is sufficient except in cases of deficiency, which requires far larger amounts of B12, administered sublingually or through injection. Anyone suspecting a B12 deficiency should be tested by a physician before taking any supplemental B12, as this would distort tests.


Calcium
Calcium interferes with the absorption of Levothyroxine (even in the form of milk), so the drug should be taken one hour before or at least four hours after any calcium intake. Supplements may be unnecessary, because studies have shown that people with this form of autoimmune thyroiditis do not demonstrate deviations in serum calcium and calcitonin levels during the calcium tolerance test.(5) However, magnesium works in balance with calcium, and many people with Hashimoto’s take magnesium supplements to help with cramps. It also plays a role with magnesium in controlling heart rate. Women over 35 should consider a calcium supplement.


Magnesium
This essential mineral is often deficient in thyroid patients. It helps to maintain normal muscle and nerve function, keeps heart rhythm steady and bones strong, and is involved in energy metabolism. It is the “soothing mineral”, which wards off cramps. Like calcium, it plays a role in controlling the heart rate.


Essential Fatty Acids
A blend of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can help hair (which often thins with Hashimoto’s), skin (which can become very dry), joints (which may ache), and cholesterol levels (Hashimoto’s patients have raised levels of LDL cholesterol – the "bad" cholesterol). These fatty acids need to be kept in balance: an elevated omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acid (EFA) ratio in the diet has been suggested as a possible mechanism in the onset of autoimmune disease.


Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)
Hashimoto’s increases the risk of heart disease, and CoQ10 is excellent for heart health. It has a proven antioxidant activity within the mitochondria and cellular membrane, and is also good for boosting energy levels. It is sometimes found combined with Omega or Fish Oil, Fish Oil COQ10 with Omega 3


Viruses that cannot be fully eliminated by the immune system for example may result in it turning on the body to destroy tissues that are holding the virus. For whatever reason the body turns on itself with autoimmune diseases, it causes mistaken identity, in which these natural tissues, organs, glands, muscles or joints are recognized as enemies in the body and are attacked. When the immune system is operating properly, it will create antibodies only to attack unnatural invaders that can potentially cause illness or disease in the body. With Hashimoto’s, the immune system has turned on the thyroid gland to destroy it.

Here is the regimen that I recommended for a specific patient, check with your practitioner to see if any of these supplements are right for you.

1. I recommend a parasite cleanse first in case the triggering agent is still present. Octocleanse is an Herbal Parasite and Yeast Detox. When you finish this, then start the other regimen


2. Fish Oil/Coenzyme Q10



3. Rhodiganda (contains Ashwagandha Also known as Indian ginseng, this herb stimulates thyroid activity) It was also shown that Rhodiola rosea may be beneficial in increasing energy and mental performance in people with Hashimoto's disease for immune support.  Consult a practitioner before taking this product.  It is better for people with low thyroid, if your thyroid is overactive, exercise caution with this supplement.



4. Maintain adequate vitamin D levels for immune support



5. Add a Calcium/ Magnesium/ VitaminD/ Zinc supplement



6. I recommend the Spectracell test to check nutrient and omega levels so we can adequately address any other nutrient defects and calculate adequate dosages, a telomere test will assess the DNA damage and see if we need to add RNA/DNA to the regimen



7. For those of you with concomitant adrenal insufficiency, as indicated by a low DHEA level, start with a 10 or 25 mg supplement, and after levels are rechecked, dosage may be adjusted from there.

8. To regulate xenoestrogen burden on the body, consider PriVita, an herbal estrogen blocker. Xenoestrogens can cause many hormone disruptions.




 The statements and products shown on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Constipation ideas... and increase your vitamin intake also

Often, pregnancy constipation can be managed with lifestyle changes. Consider these steps:

Drink plenty of fluids. Aim for eight 8-ounce (237-milliliter) glasses of water a day. Fruit juice — especially prune juice — also can help.

Include physical activity in your daily routine. Daily walks and other aerobic activities can help prevent and treat pregnancy constipation.

Include more fiber in your diet. Choose high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. With your health care provider's OK, try fiber supplements, such as Metamucil.

Many constipation remedies also have extra vitamins and minerals

Colon maintainence in pregnancy

can be used to relieve constipation, and may help with water retention and weight maintainence

Magnesium Oxide (tablets, gelcaps, or powder)

One should strive for a dosage which will stimulate two to three bowel motions per day. This dosage may be as much as two heaped teaspoons a day or as little as one half teaspoon daily. Remember to listen to your body.
The magnesium oxide should come in white powder form and is generally mixed in half a glass of water. Substances which are mildly acidic, such as lemon juice or apple cider can be added or follow the ingestion of magnesium oxide. These mildly acidic substances enhance the digestion of the magnesium oxide.
Magnesium oxide should not be taken with meals. That is, at least an hour before or after eating. Since magnesium oxide liquefies toxic matter, it can be expected that the bowel motions will be loose. This is not diarrhea but the result of the hydrating effect of magnesium oxide. After the initial intensive or gradual cleansing period, some people will find it beneficial to use magnesium oxide on a regular basis. A general principle is to take enough so as to stimulate regularity. Because magnesium oxide produces water and oxygen it is safe to use on a regular basis.

Benefiber with calcium
3g fiber and 30% daily calcium
can be used regularly

Benefiber plus heart health
An excellent source of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid (33-35%)


Fiber choice with antioxidants
The main source of fiber in FiberChoice® is inulin, the same kind of fiber you'll find in fruits and vegetables.
just two tablets provides 45% of your Daily Value of Vitamin C* and Vitamin E*, and 40% of your Daily Value of Beta Carotene.*
This can be used daily.













Fiber Choice plus Calcium

50% of your daily recommended calcium in each dose
Equal to as much calcium as 14 oz. of milk
More calcium per dose than other fiber supplements
Inulin - fiber to help boost calcium absorption**
Vitamin D added





















Fiber Choice with chromium

Fiber Choice weight management contains chromium picolinate, a naturally occurring compound that aids in metabolism. Each 2-tablet dose contains 200mcg of chromium (167% of daily recommended value.)
can be used regularly




Psyllium Fiber (Metamucil, Konsyl)
can be used regularly
Metamucil can be found with calcium added




Bran cereal or a fiber Cereal (at least 6 grams of fiber daily)

The regular consumption of prune juice or plumsmart
The regular consumption of oatmeal



Miralax one week course
rare use in case other regimens are not effective

be sure to drink 2 liters of fluid (preferably water) daily


If you use splenda, do you know that it comes with added fiber (1 gram)?

Splenda with fiber

Getting some extra fruit, vegetable, and fiber servings

Who needs more fruit, vegetable, and fiber servings?

* Anyone concerned with immune system health
* Anyone who does not eat enough fruit in his or her daily diet
* Anyone who wants to increase his or her dietary intake of antioxidants to aid the body in ridding itself of harmful free radicals
* Anyone who suffers from occasional constipation or diarrhea
* Anyone participating in a weight-management program consisting of a healthy diet and exercise that wants to add fiber to his or her diet

THE ISSUE:
Fruit and vegetable consumption across the U.S. continues to be a challenge for many Americans. According to surveys conducted by the CDC from 1996 to 2000, more than 75% of Americans failed to consume the minimum recommended five servings a day of fruit and vegetables. Since those studies were conducted, the USDA recommendations for daily intake of fruits and vegetables have been increased to eight to 10 servings per day. Every day, more nutrition experts are recommending individuals increase their daily dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, especially those having the brightest colors. The most intensely colored fruits and vegetables have been found to possess the highest levels of protective phytonutrients plus elevated levels of powerful antioxidants, yet few individuals manage to incorporate these foods into their diet.

In addition to the decline in fruit and vegetable consumption, Americans do not consume an adequate amount of fiber in their diet. The American Dietetic Association recommends consuming 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day, however the typical American diet only contains 12 to 17 grams per day. Low fiber intake is associated with constipation, weight gain and a host of other problems. Consequently, diets high in fiber have been shown to help maintain cholesterol, improve digestion and dramatically support healthy weight loss. Most Americans do not eat enough fruits, vegetables or whole grains to consume the recommended amount of fiber in the diet. In addition, the typical American diet includes foods that are heavily processed, reducing much of the already minimal fiber content.

Goji and Cherry Supplements

Goji’s have been used in Asian herbal medicine for over 5,000 years. Long a staple of Eastern and holistic medicine, the Goji Berry is renowned for its antioxidant properties that provide a variety of benefits including increased energy and heightened immune function. The weight loss properties of this natural ingredient have recently seen the fruit becoming popular stateside as well, especially among celebrities and many stars in Hollywood with the Goji Berry being featured on many television programs and in magazines. The goji berry is one of the most nutrient-rich foods on earth. It is a vegetarian form of protein, packed with essential amino acids, rich in vitamin A and a good source of vitamin C. Goji berries possess over 20 trace minerals and vitamins including zinc, iron, phosphorus, riboflavin (B2), vitamin E as well as carotenoids, including beta-carotene.


Cherry Fruit Extract provides a natural source of flavonoids that act as antioxidants, providing protection to different systems in the body including joints, connective tissues and arteries. Naturally occurring antioxidant components, such as flavonoids, can help to protect cells from free radical damage in the body. Cherry Fruit Extract also helps to support the body's natural system of metabolizing uric acid. (These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.)

Health Benefits of Cherry Extract.

Antidote for Free Radicals: The flavonoids, found in Cherry Extract, act as antioxidants in the body, degenerating and destroying harmful oxygen compounds called free radicals.

Free Radicals are responsible for may critical diseases like cataract, Parkinson?s disease, and arteriosclerosis. A study has confirmed that Cherry Extract could actually reduce the risk of death from heart attack in middle-aged men with heart problems.

The more flavonoid-rich supplements like Cherry Extract that we consume, the lower the risk became of our heart disease.

Cherry Extract is also natural anti-inflammatory agent, which may help in reducing both the production and release of inflammation-promoting compounds such as histamine. This can be helpful to people with hayfever and allergies.

Cherry Extract is very much similar in functioning to anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen), antihistamines, and certain anti-asthma drugs.

This is why Cherry Extract is a natural food for help with allergies, arthritis, or any condition in which chronic inflammation is present, such as gout and arthritis.

Strengthening Capillaries: Flavonoids, present in Cherry Extract, strengthen collagen, the building fibers of connective tissue. Cherry Extract facilitates cross-linking of fibers themselves, by providing additional flavonoids.

Cherry Extract also helps in strengthening the collagen fibers that are the basic structure of the vein wall. Extracts of cherries and blueberries are used frequently in Europe for treatment of varicose veins from past many centuries.

Is Cherry Extract better than Cherry Juice? There are often discussions like which one is better, juice or extract? Although you can always use Cherry extract, fresh or canned cherries, and cherry juice but cherry Extract is probably best. Juice is also a good source for flavonoids, but still Cherry Extract is more concentrated.

Some people recommend the use of Cherry Juice over Cherry Extract, however, beware of “cherry drinks,” which usually contain a scant amount of actual cherry juice and lots of water and sugar.

Possible Side Effects

There are no known side effects or adverse reactions associated with Cherry Extract.

Goji and Cherry can sometimes be found in a combined supplement.

Omega or DHA fortified foods

Omega-3 found in fortified eggs, margarine spread, mayonnaise with olive oil, salmon, canola oil, avocado oil, or olive oil and in peanut butter.

Everyone does not care for the taste of fish, or fish oil supplements, but for heart and pregnancy health, their are other ways to enhance intake of omega 3 or DHA.

Natural Mood support

I originally wrote this blog for a pregnant patient who needed natural help with her bipolar disorder. Then I started checking Lithium levels for patients with less severe mood issues and found more low lithium levels! I have modified this blog to include suggestions for everyone.

Lithium is an essential trace mineral that is required by the brain for proper functioning. Inadequate levels of Lithium in the brain produce one or more of the following symptoms: nervousness, impatience, attention deficit, “scattered thinking”, inability to concentrate, not being able to focus or stick to the point, starting many projects and not following through with them, insomnia. In severe Lithium deficiency, manic depression or bipolar disorders are common.

Pure lithium, like sodium, calcium, or potassium, is a naturally occurring mineral. Lithium is found abundantly in certain rocks and the sea and in minute amounts in plant and animal tissues. Lithium also shows up in water, notably in the springs and spas where in earlier times people "took the waters," bathing in and drinking the lithium-rich water for its soothing effects.
During the late 19th Century, French doctors noticed that the people who dug salt in the salt mines had very few mental problems. They discovered that it was their exposure to Lithium that accounted for the unusually healthy minds. Population studies suggested that areas high in lithium (like near a natural spring) have very low levels of depressed people. Areas low in lithium have a higher rate of mental disorders and higher violent crime rates. The normal source of Lithium in the diet is deep well water. In some locations, such as West Texas, water provides 2 to 6 mg of Lithium per day. This is one of the reasons that people in Abilene or Amarillo are much more relaxed than people in Houston, where the water has zero Lithium.

Lithium Deficiency Signs can include PMS, Insomnia, headache, ADHD, Joint pain & Nervous disorders


What Lithium Does:

Helps regulate nerve impulses by regulating sodium and potassium
Influences distribution of sodium and potassium
Influences sodium transport
Stabilizes serotonin transmission in the nervous system
Studies suggest it has a role in glucose metabolism and insulin resistance


Lithium is one of the most common elements used for stabilizing mood swings, mania and depression. Lithium orotate is a highly bioavailable form of lithium that is available without a prescription. Because of its superior bioavailability, (20 times more bio-active than other lithium salts) lower doses of lithium orotate (Rather than lithium carbonate or lithium citrate) may be used to achieve therapeutic brain lithium concentrations and relatively stable serum concentrations.

Lithium orotate has also been demonstrated to be of benefit in the treatment of alcoholics, and proved useful in alleviating alcohol-related symptoms of liver dysfunction, seizure disorders, headaches, hyperthyroidism, affective disorders.

Standard lithium orotate dietary supplements provide 5 mg lithium. This is 1 to 2 percent of the dose provided by prescription forms of lithium.

Vita Doc relaxing Water
Empty a 300 mg capsule of Lithium Carbonate into a quart of water. The Lithium readily dissolves in the water. Drink 2 ounces of this water with the evening meal. This will provide about 20 mg of Lithium Carbonate or 7 mg of elemental Lithium per day.

Lithium can also be incorporated into the diet. Foods that contain Lithium include eggs, milk, tomatoes, seaweed, kelp, dulse, lemons and eggplant. Garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme,and coriander are some spices that contain lithium in small amounts. Some mineral spring waters contain small amounts of this substance.

Mineral waters such as Vichy and Evian were initially also promoted on the basis of their slightly higher lithium concentrations.

Coffee, juice, diuretics and soft drinks also deplete the Lithium from our bodies.

If your lithium levels are low, or you just need a mood lift, try the celtic sea salt, natural spring water, or foods that contain lithium. Consult your health practitioner before adding any supplements to your regimen.



Crazy Water, Water No 3 Natural Mnrl Deep Well, 16.9-Fluid Ounce (12 Pack)

Celtic Sea Salt® Brand contains natural lithium salts. Unlike supplementing with medicinal lithium, the lithium in Celtic Sea Salt® Brand is absorbed naturally, in quantities nature intended, and they are untreated, unprocessed, and natural.


For pregnant women, just stick to supplementing the diet with the spring water like Evian, Pelligrino, and Perrier water and do not try to elevate the levels more aggressively until pregnancy and breastfeeding have concluded.

Over the Counter prenatal vitamins

What Are the Best Prenatal Vitamins?

Many pregnant women wonder which prenatal vitamins are best. This is a difficult question to answer, as the prenatal vitamins that are best for one woman may not be the best for another woman. Additionally, it can be difficult to directly compare prenatal vitamins, even if they contain the exact same ingredients. Over-the-counter prenatal vitamins typically have lower amounts of some vitamins (particularly folic acid). There is no single "best" prenatal vitamin. The best prenatal vitamin for you will depend on several factors, such as any special health needs or how much you want to spend. Your healthcare provider can be a great resource for helping you choose the best prenatal vitamin for your needs. Keep in mind that you may need to try a few different prenatal vitamins in order to find the one you prefer.


Prescription prenatal vitamins

*may contain more iron than others (which is helpful for women who are anemic).
*may contain iron in formulations that are easier to absorb.
*may be formulated with special coatings
*may be formulated specifically to help with morning sickness.
*may contain a stool softener (usually docusate sodium), which helps relieve constipation, a common problem during pregnancy (which can be made worse by the iron and calcium in prenatal vitamins).

The latest trend is to include docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in prenatal vitamins. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that appears to be important for brain, eye, and heart health. The typical American diet is usually deficient in DHA (because DHA is mostly found in fish). Also, because fish is the primary source of DHA and because pregnant women are often instructed to limit their intake of certain types of fish (to avoid the potential risks of mercury toxicity), many pregnant women may be deficient in DHA. In most formulations, the DHA is included in a soft-gel capsule that is separate from the prenatal vitamin (which means that two pills are necessary each day, instead of one).

Some are chewable, liquid, organic, or even kosher.

Importantly, there are wide variations in the cost of prenatal vitamins. If your healthcare provider has prescribed one that is too expensive, please ask to switch to a different prenatal vitamin. Many prenatal vitamins are very inexpensive, and there is no reason to not take a prenatal vitamin due to cost.


Some women feel that swallowing a large and bulky tablet makes their morning sickness worse. For these women, a chewable prenatal vitamin may be the best choice. In many cases, I recommend taking two children's Flintstones™ chewable vitamins a day, which is similar to taking one prenatal vitamin (and these vitamins actually taste fairly good).

Fibromyalgia herbal ideas for relief of symptoms

There are no known cures for fibromyalgia, due to the fact that the cause is unknown. Theories suggest the condition may be due to chemical or hormone imbalances.

However there are treatments that can help alleviate the various fibromyalgia symptoms.

Counseling
Exercise (especially yoga)
Nutrition therapy
Detoxification (Like Parasite Cleansing, Colon Cleansing)
Herbal Therapy


Herbs can be used to help alleviate fibromyalgia by reducing inflammation, stimulating hormones, providing immune system support and eliminating pain.

Herbal remedies are often used effectively in people suffering from fibromyalgia. Herbs can help to treat the wide range of symptoms produced by the syndrome, including:

depression
fatigue and sleep disorders
widespread muscle pain
immune deficiency



St. John's Wort St. John's wort is a natural antidepressant and influences the adrenal gland hormones to help relieve stress. St. John's wort affects nerves and is effective for sharp, shooting nerve pains. It also has antiviral properties. (Caution: Do not take if you are taking conventional antidepressants.)



























*Echinacea and Borage Oil are remedies that have been tried. Willow bark has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used as a painkiller.

*Magnesium is a mineral found naturally in foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains and in nutritional supplements. Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions. Magnesium, along with malic acid (a fruit acid found naturally in apples) are often suggested for people with fibromyalgia because they are both needed for the generation of energy in cells in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP).













*The supplement 5-HTP is thought to work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. There is preliminary evidence that it may reduce the number of tender points in people with fibromyalgia, possibly by effecting pain-modulating systems in the brainstem.



This supplement also contains Passionflower which Helps with insomnia, stress, and anxiety.
Valerian, chamomile, and passionflower in combination can be more effective than valerian alone for improved sleep. All three are also contained in Herbalith
















Green foods should be added for optimal nutrition. (My green foods supplement contains Quercetin, digestive enzymes, CoQ10, Grape seed extract, Alpha Lipoic acid, lactobacillus and astragalus) see "GREEN CELL THERAPY"

Astragalus-Astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Its main use has been to boost the body's immune system

Alpha Lipoic acid is very useful for enhancing the body's utilization of carbohydrates and enhancing energy. Take 100 milligrams three times daily.

Grape-seed extracts are natural anti-inflammatories that help to ease pain


Quercetin is a bioflavonoid considered to have excellent properties as a natural antihistimine and allergy-fighter.

People with fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndromes that have started a digestive enzyme regime often show and improvement in their symptoms. This is because the regimen provides enzymes that the body lacks, and promotes cell nutrition by nourishing the nervous system and digestive system.



























Coenzyme Q10 is also an antioxidant and helps deliver oxygen to cells. (It can be found in combination with Fish oil or Omega-3 fatty acids)

Omega-3 Fatty Acids - especially those found in fish oil, omega-3 fatty acids can decrease inflammation and allergic response.





















The scientific community will continue to discover more specific causes for auto immune disorders but at present there are four significant factors that have been proven to cause fibromyalgia like symptoms, they are:
1. Viral infections
2. Parasite infestations
3. Bacterial infections
4. Intestinal yeast infections

OCTOCLEANSE Herbal Parasite Detox may be of interest to you it contains:
Black walnut aid in removing parasites.
Paud'arco, taken in tea or tablet form, is good for treating candida infection.















Antioxidants help reduce free-radical damage and fight inflammation. Take a good antioxidant formula that provides daily:

5,000 to 10,000 International Units of vitamin A
Up to 10,000 milligrams of buffered vitamin C
400 to 800 international units of vitamin E
200 micrograms of selenium.

OCTOVITE Ultimate Herbal Antioxidant contains A, C, E in addition to:

Gingko Biloba-Ginkgo biloba stimulates circulation, particularly in the brain. Because of the increase circulation and oxygenation of the brain cells, produced by the extract from ginkgo leaves, this plant has given excellent results for combating fatigue.

Ginseng-Siberian ginseng is an energizing herb that can help resolve the fatigue associated with fibromyalgia.























Fibromyalgia pain is thought to be produced by a combination of factors. These fibromyalgia factors include imbalances in brain and body chemistry. Disturbed sleep, a symptom of fibromyalgia, is also thought to be a cause. Though the degree of pain fibromyalgia can produce varies with individual sufferers, it's not progressive or debilitating. However, chronic fibromyalgia pain sets off a chain reaction of physical and mental side effects. The persistent stress of chronic fibromyalgia pain can affect the nervous and immune system. Coping with chronic fibromyalgia pain can also bring on depression and cause the brain to perceive even more pain.

What I have recommended to patients, is to maintain health with natural pain relievers that also boost the immune system.
Resveratrol, a phytochemical derived from grape skin, is also abundant in members of the Polygonum genus, widely used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. The anti-inflammatory effects of resveratrol were first described in 1997 after an animal model determined its primary activity to be the inhibition of COX-1. Then a study led by some of the same researchers from Cornell Medical College in New York City revealed resveratrol's COX-2 inhibitory effects.
Green Tea is also in this supplement. There is a compound in green tea called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) that University of Michigan researchers found to alleviate arthritis pain.

Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate is a supplement that contains both of these ingredients. This product underwent ORAC analysis at Brunswick Labs.
























Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Fibromyalgia respond to many of the same treatments. Fibromyalgia (FM) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have many similarities. Although the two illnesses have many symptoms in common, the most prevalent symptom of FM is widespread pain while the primary symptom of CFS is extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest.





The statements and products referred to throughout this site have not been evaluated by the FDA. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. If you have a health condition or concern, consult a physician or your alternative health care provider. Always consult a medical doctor before modifying your diet, using any new product, drug, or supplement. The FDA has not evaluated any of these statements or this treatment and there is no guarantee of cure with this treatment. Results may vary.