I have many patients who complain that they stopped taking vitamins due to taste.
Here are recommendations of things I or my patients have tried. A couple of items, I included because they look fun (tell me how the calcium malted milk balls taste)...
Some can be found at your grocery store or pharmacy.
Also check out my Bariatric Surgery Supplements blog. Many other chewable and liquid options can be found there.
See my vitamin D blog for liquid, chewable, and topical options.
See my Omega blog for delicious options for those of you to object to fishy tasting supplements.
I also included some topical supplements that do absorb and provide some benefit.
FDA Disclaimer
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.
Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified integrative physician prior to using our products if possible.
Nutrition Month
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Casein Free Shopping and lactose intolerant ideas
A food intolerance can be difficult to diagnose. Honestly I believe that many people are suffering from a food intolerance, but they don’t even realize it and are medicating the symptoms with prescription drugs. Casein is just one of many food ingredients that can cause problems. People can be intolerant to gluten, MSG, corn, shrimp, and caffeine, just to name a few others.
Casein should not be confused with lactose.
Most people who have difficulty digesting milk are lactose intolerant, meaning that they produce too little of the enzyme (lactase) that breaks down milk sugar (lactose) so bacteria flourish in their gut to finish the job.
Milk has a number of components. These include lactose (milk's sugar), up to four varieties of casein and other milk proteins, and fats. The percentage of each of these contained in an ounce of milk varies according to the source of the milk (which animal), where in the milking cycle the milk comes from (lactose-rich foremilk comes out first, followed by fat-rich hindmilk), and how long the individual animal has been lactating this time around. If it comes out of a box, a tin or any other kind of packaging, be sure to read the ingredients. You'd be amazed at the kinds of foods that conceal milk products. For someone with an allergy, even a pinch can be too much, so read carefully.
dairy free cookbook
The following items on any ingredients list are no-nos:
milk solids ("curds")
whey
casein (sodium caseinate, most commonly)
lactose (sodium lactylate, frequently)
lactalbumin and other names that begin with lact
and the obvious:
milk,
butter,
cheese,
yogurt...
Be especially alert when obtaining the following, as milk products creep in:
margarine
hydrolyzed vegetable protein (for the unusually sensitive person) since the processing phase may utilize casein
bread, and breaded (often fried) foods
chewing gum
soy cheeses
"non-dairy" anything, including Cool Whip. Non-dairy does not mean milk-free. It is a term the dairy industry invented to indicate less than 1/2 % milk by weight, which could mean fully as much casein as whole milk!
sour mix, such as what is used to make margaritas, or other artifically "sour" items such as some candies.
vinegar flavored potato chips/crisps. The "vinegar" may actually be a milk-derived ingredient.
whole poultry fresh from the store *may* be infused with lactose to keep it fresher. Check the ingredient list or purchase a kosher bird.
Wine! Casein is one of six substances that may be used to clarify wine. (Egg white is another.) If you call the vintner, ask if casein is used in the "fining process".
milk and dairy free probiotics
Look for products marked "vegan", which should contain no animal products whatsoever.
Ingredient Substitutions
For butter substitute Fleischmann's unsalted margarine, Crisco or soy butter. In baking, you can also substitute lard, which produces excellent baked results.
For melted butter substitute oil or melted margarine.
Spectrum Naturals Organic Shortening, All Vegetable, 24-Ounce Containers (Pack of 4)
For milk used simply as a liquid, substitute water or Rice Dream. If you're baking, fruit juice can add a nice touch. Reduce the amount of sugar that the recipe calls for, though.
vegan soup
hemp milk
almond milk
rice milk
soy milk
oat milk
vegan potato chips
vegan chewing gum
vegan seasoning gluten free
coconut milk organic
Dairy free supplement
miracle noodles
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Update on Natural Womens Care and Vita Doc
Dr Tamyra Comeaux is trained and board certified in Gynecology and Anti-Aging medicine. She spent his first 10 years in typical allopathic practice prescribing drugs and following the typical guidelines of traditional medicine. Then many of the prescription drugs she had been trained to give started to be removed from use (Vioxx) or placed under suspicion (Hormone Replacement Therapy).
She realized an entire world of self empowered medicine using lifestyle, nutrition and supplements was being overlooked and underutilized. So in 2010 she formed Vita Doc (teach life) and began creating her own supplement line to improve human performance health and longevity.
Q: You have quite a story, which I feel my readers will really relate to. In your own words, what happened that started you on your path to being a “radical” anti aging doctor?
A: Early in my career of Obstetrics and Gynecology, patients started throwing their hormones away, pregnant women would stop their antidepressants and other medications, and wonder what else they could do to manage their conditions without side effects. I researched natural treatment of various conditions and by the time I finished all those books I thought "I read so many books, I could have a degree in this". So I studied for my Naturopathic Medical Degree. My traditional training left me unprepared for these questions... and I sought answers.
Q: What were the different ideas that you investigated when searching the best that anti aging medicine had to offer? When all was said and done, what have you proven to be the best of the best?
A: To start out I became well versed in bioidentical hormone replacement for both men and women. In the early days of anti-aging medicine that was pretty much the main agenda. But I rapidly branched out and became fascinated with natural supplementation to augment health and longevity. I began to use diet, nutrition and supplement recommendations to help patients, and found out that I was having almost as much success as in the patients who still on their prescriptions. Next came the natural, herbal weight loss supplements to make up for the huge lack of safe and effective weight loss products.
Q: I have always wondered this, how does one go about formulating your own supplements? How much research went into getting yours just right?
A: The first step is to decide what your goals are with the supplement. Is it a performance enhancer? is it a basic health and longevity supplement?- is it for weight loss? etc. Then hopefully you have a strong background in herbs and nutrition (I have a separate Masters Degree in Holistic Nutrition) pharmacology and biochemistry (the undergrad science degree and the MD cover that). That allows you to understand the compounds you are dealing with on a very “human” level, then you research the literature to see what is out there and what has been done in animals, human cell lines and human studies. That alone will get you to “unique” status in the world of supplementation since most people aren’t making their supplements this way. Next I look for combinations of things that will boost the efficacy of the supplement to do what I want it to do and to give the person taking it real results. I rarely try to make a single supplement since I think it is far less likely to be useful in the body. That is why people who get on my stuff stay on it! Next you need a clinical practice willing to let you “test your theories”! I had and still have people ready and willing to be my beta testers. That said when I start with a supplement I take it myself for at least 3 months and I push the doses way higher than what I am going to sell to make sure they are safe and there is a large margin for error. I tried to make things people can't overdose on!
Once it’s been through the testing phase and I have tweaked it to work as well as possible with the input of my compounding pharmacists and chemists I then bring it to market. The entire process often takes at least 6 months. In terms of research hours it’s an ongoing thing. I spend the bulk of my days looking for new info both on new possible products and those already out there. It’s fascinating because when you hit the research right you find your product growing in value years later when new research comes out. People call me all the time and say "Dr. Oz talked about something you have on his show today!" My customers appreciate knowing they are getting something that is going to be way ahead of the curve and they get to use it first.
Q: If we could stop Telomeres from shortening, is it possible for humans to literally live forever?
A: The only truly immortal cell lines in our body, germ cells and the most undifferentiated stem cells are immortal because telomerase, the enzyme that lengthens telomeres and the same enzyme that TA-65 turns on, allows them to maintain healthy telomere length in spite of duplicating themselves. So in theory this is very possible but there are a lot of details we need to work out. We do know this much though, long telomeres are good for your health and longevity so it’s best to start as soon as you can to add length or at least slow down telomere loss. We also know that a small group of people have an overactive telomerase and they live longer than most, often exceeding 100. The problems is we probably need to start telomerase therapy every early in life something no one is doing, to “catch up” to the losses. If you are 60 or 70 telomerase therapy is going to help you immensely but to make up for the damage you’ve done in those years just by aging you’ll probably need both telomerase therapy and stem cells. I did Spectracell's telomere test on myself, and I became interested in supplements that improve telomere longevity. I have several that I use.
Octovite
Acai/Resveratrol/Macqui- (Antioxidant Formula)
Dr. Comeaux's COQ10 with Omega 3 Dietary Supplement, 60 softgels
Q: Is there anything else going on at Vita Doc, that my readers might feel is important or any great news coming out soon you can share with us?
A: I am always working on something and the next couple of months will see the release of several new products. I have formulated an estrogen blocker, because estrogen dominance is prevalent in both males and females and is associated with fibrocystic breasts, breast and prostate cancer, abdominal fat gain, and fibroids. Hormone balance is very important and does not always respond to the addition of more hormones. Also, I have reformulated a the Female Balance by adding Maca and Horny Goat for additional libido support.
FDA Disclaimer
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.
Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified integrative physician prior to using our products if possible.
Female Balance Ultimate
She realized an entire world of self empowered medicine using lifestyle, nutrition and supplements was being overlooked and underutilized. So in 2010 she formed Vita Doc (teach life) and began creating her own supplement line to improve human performance health and longevity.
Q: You have quite a story, which I feel my readers will really relate to. In your own words, what happened that started you on your path to being a “radical” anti aging doctor?
A: Early in my career of Obstetrics and Gynecology, patients started throwing their hormones away, pregnant women would stop their antidepressants and other medications, and wonder what else they could do to manage their conditions without side effects. I researched natural treatment of various conditions and by the time I finished all those books I thought "I read so many books, I could have a degree in this". So I studied for my Naturopathic Medical Degree. My traditional training left me unprepared for these questions... and I sought answers.
Q: What were the different ideas that you investigated when searching the best that anti aging medicine had to offer? When all was said and done, what have you proven to be the best of the best?
A: To start out I became well versed in bioidentical hormone replacement for both men and women. In the early days of anti-aging medicine that was pretty much the main agenda. But I rapidly branched out and became fascinated with natural supplementation to augment health and longevity. I began to use diet, nutrition and supplement recommendations to help patients, and found out that I was having almost as much success as in the patients who still on their prescriptions. Next came the natural, herbal weight loss supplements to make up for the huge lack of safe and effective weight loss products.
Q: I have always wondered this, how does one go about formulating your own supplements? How much research went into getting yours just right?
A: The first step is to decide what your goals are with the supplement. Is it a performance enhancer? is it a basic health and longevity supplement?- is it for weight loss? etc. Then hopefully you have a strong background in herbs and nutrition (I have a separate Masters Degree in Holistic Nutrition) pharmacology and biochemistry (the undergrad science degree and the MD cover that). That allows you to understand the compounds you are dealing with on a very “human” level, then you research the literature to see what is out there and what has been done in animals, human cell lines and human studies. That alone will get you to “unique” status in the world of supplementation since most people aren’t making their supplements this way. Next I look for combinations of things that will boost the efficacy of the supplement to do what I want it to do and to give the person taking it real results. I rarely try to make a single supplement since I think it is far less likely to be useful in the body. That is why people who get on my stuff stay on it! Next you need a clinical practice willing to let you “test your theories”! I had and still have people ready and willing to be my beta testers. That said when I start with a supplement I take it myself for at least 3 months and I push the doses way higher than what I am going to sell to make sure they are safe and there is a large margin for error. I tried to make things people can't overdose on!
Once it’s been through the testing phase and I have tweaked it to work as well as possible with the input of my compounding pharmacists and chemists I then bring it to market. The entire process often takes at least 6 months. In terms of research hours it’s an ongoing thing. I spend the bulk of my days looking for new info both on new possible products and those already out there. It’s fascinating because when you hit the research right you find your product growing in value years later when new research comes out. People call me all the time and say "Dr. Oz talked about something you have on his show today!" My customers appreciate knowing they are getting something that is going to be way ahead of the curve and they get to use it first.
Q: If we could stop Telomeres from shortening, is it possible for humans to literally live forever?
A: The only truly immortal cell lines in our body, germ cells and the most undifferentiated stem cells are immortal because telomerase, the enzyme that lengthens telomeres and the same enzyme that TA-65 turns on, allows them to maintain healthy telomere length in spite of duplicating themselves. So in theory this is very possible but there are a lot of details we need to work out. We do know this much though, long telomeres are good for your health and longevity so it’s best to start as soon as you can to add length or at least slow down telomere loss. We also know that a small group of people have an overactive telomerase and they live longer than most, often exceeding 100. The problems is we probably need to start telomerase therapy every early in life something no one is doing, to “catch up” to the losses. If you are 60 or 70 telomerase therapy is going to help you immensely but to make up for the damage you’ve done in those years just by aging you’ll probably need both telomerase therapy and stem cells. I did Spectracell's telomere test on myself, and I became interested in supplements that improve telomere longevity. I have several that I use.
Octovite
Acai/Resveratrol/Macqui- (Antioxidant Formula)
Dr. Comeaux's COQ10 with Omega 3 Dietary Supplement, 60 softgels
Q: Is there anything else going on at Vita Doc, that my readers might feel is important or any great news coming out soon you can share with us?
A: I am always working on something and the next couple of months will see the release of several new products. I have formulated an estrogen blocker, because estrogen dominance is prevalent in both males and females and is associated with fibrocystic breasts, breast and prostate cancer, abdominal fat gain, and fibroids. Hormone balance is very important and does not always respond to the addition of more hormones. Also, I have reformulated a the Female Balance by adding Maca and Horny Goat for additional libido support.
FDA Disclaimer
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.
Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified integrative physician prior to using our products if possible.
Female Balance Ultimate
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Natural Alternatives for Pain Relief
Herbal Alternatives for pain relief
A new study has found that healthy people who take certain
NSAID (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
pain relievers may increase their risk of heart attack and stroke.
People commonly use NSAIDs, especially OTC formulations, to reduce fever and relieve pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, headache, toothache, back pain, muscle pain, menstrual cramps or minor injury.
Previous studies linked NSAIDs and cardiovascular risks in persons with other high risk factors or established heart disease, however this study is the first to measure the increased cardiovascular risk caused by NSAIDs in healthy people.
“We conducted this study to answer whether any specific NSAID carried a risk of cardiovascular adverse events among healthy individuals and to explore if there were safer alternatives within the group of NSAIDs,” study authors said.
Researchers in Denmark studied 1,028,437 healthy Danish individuals with an average age of 39 from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2005 for increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality with the use of rofecoxib (Vioxx), diclofenac, celecoxib, naproxen and ibuprofen.
Rofecoxib, marketed as the brand name Vioxx, is no longer available in the United States. Merck voluntarily withdrew the drug from the market in 2004 after studies showed an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Vioxx was widely used in the U.S. before its withdrawal, generating $2.5 billion in sales revenue in 2003.
Diclofenac, marketed as brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren, Voltaren-XR and Zipsor, and Celecoxib marketed as Celebrex are only available by prescription in the U.S., while consumers can purchase ibuprofen over-the-counter (OTC) as brand names such as Advil, Motrin, Midol and Nuprin. Naproxen is available by prescription, but consumers can also purchase naproxen (Aleve) over-the-counter.
According to Healthday News, compared to people who took no NSAIDs, researchers of the study found that patients taking diclofenac had a 91% higher risk of death from heart attack and stroke, much higher than the 66% increased risk for those taking rofecoxib (Vioxx). People taking the largest doses of diclofenac saw risk of heart attack doubled and for those taking the largest doses of rofecoxib (Vioxx) risk tripled.
Perhaps the most relevant study finding for U.S consumers self-medicating with OTC ibuprofen products is that ibuprofen showed a 29% higher risk of stroke.
Researchers found no increased risk of heart attack or stroke with use of naproxen. Their analyses of celecoxib were not conclusive.
“Because treatment with NSAIDs is so widely distributed in the general population, it is also of great importance that a safe alternative is found when NSAID treatment cannot be avoided. The safety of naproxen has been much debated, but it is widely accepted that naproxen is probably the NSAID with the safest cardiovascular risk profile, and our results support this assumption,” the researchers said. “Our results suggest that naproxen could be a safer alternative when NSAID treatment is required.”
The study appears in the June 8, 2010 issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, a Journal of the American Heart Association.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires drug labels for NSAIDs to warn of increased risk of heart attack or stroke associated with long-term continuous use of the drug. The Denmark study population had a median exposure time to NSAIDs of 14 days, indicating short-time exposure in most individuals.
Retrieved from http://newyorkcity.injuryboard.com/fda-and-prescription-drugs/popular-nsaid-pain-relievers-increase-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke.aspx?googleid=282136
See our list of natural alternatives to NSAIDS below:
Some of the side effects and health risks associated with taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) include stomach bleeding, ulcers, nausea, rash, headaches, dizziness, liver and/or kidney damage, and according to a recent Denmark study, NSAID use can increase the risk for heart attack and stroke (see article above). it is important to know about safer alternatives for reducing inflammation and pain. Natural products also support, rather than interrupt, the healing process. There are several choices when it comes to natural anti-inflammatory products. Keep in mind that not everyone responds the same. As long as there is no medical reason to not use a natural product, give it time to take effect. If you don't see results in a reasonable period of time, try another product.
1) ResVita Ultimate (Formerly Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate)
Contains Resveratrol, Alpha Lipoic acid, and Green Tea
Alpha lipoic acid is thought to work as an antioxidant in both water and fatty tissue, enabling it to enter all parts of the nerve cell and protect it from damage.Preliminary studies suggest that alpha lipoic acid may help. In one of the largest studies on the use of alpha lipoic acid, 181 people took 600 mg, 1200 mg or 1800 mg of alpha lipoic acid a day or a placebo. After 5 weeks, alpha lipoic acid improved symptoms. The dose that was best tolerated while still providing benefit was 600 mg once daily.
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is great for stiff muscles—it has nine muscle-relaxing compounds, more than just about any other plant.
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-1.17Then a study led by some of the same researchers from Cornell Medical College in New York City revealed resveratrol's COX-2 inhibitory effects.18
A compound found in plants such as grapes can protect intervertebral disc cartilage and reverse cartilage damage, which may have implications for treating disc damage responsible for back pain, according to research published in the Nov. 15 issue of Spine. Xin Li, M.D., Ph.D., from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, and colleagues investigated the effect of the phytoestrogen resveratrol, found in plants including grapes and red wines, on bovine disc cells. Previous work had shown that resveratrol could protect articular cartilage from damage, the study authors note.
2) FatBurner
Contains White willow bark, Garcinia, green tea and cinnamon
White willow bark is one of the oldest home analgesics, dating back to 500 b.c. in China. Modern research confirms old-time wisdom, showing it helps back, osteoarthritic and nerve pains. Willow bark contains apigenin, salicin and salicylic acid, which provide anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-neuralgic actions. At the end of a four-week study of 210 individuals suffering from back pain, reported in the American Journal of Medicine in 2000, 39 percent of those who had received 240 mg of salicin daily were essentially pain-free, compared to 6 percent of those given a placebo.
Cinnamon is considered a pain-killer due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action.
Garcinia kola appeared to have clinically significant analgesic/anti-inflammatory effects in knee osteoarthritis patients. Garcinia kola is a potential osteoarthritis disease activity modifier
3) Rhodi Ultimate (Formerly Rhodigandha)
contains Rhodiola and Ashwagandha, Acai, Pomegranate
For people who suffer from neurological disorders, rhodiola rosea may be able to offer the comfort needed to enjoy day-to-day living. The herb acts as a muscle relaxant and also regulates blood flow.
For those who suffer from fibromyalgia, rhodiola rosea regulates the adrenal glands which may not be producing enough cortisol. Cortisol is used by the body to reduce muscle stress and pain. In some people, the adrenal glands secrete too much cortisol and a person may not have enough to sustain them throughout the day. Rhodiola rosea is used to help the adrenal gland slow down and secrete enough cortisol for the entire day. This helps a person who is suffering from fibrolmyalgia to sleep through the night and function normally throughout the day.
Ashwagandha also relaxes blood vessels and stimulates circulation and has an anti-inflammatory and tonic effect in rheumatic and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Animal studies have found that naturally occurring steroids in ashwaganda are more potent than treatment with the synthetic steroid hydrocortisone for controlling inflammation. Ashwagandha is also used in the treatment of low back pain and sciatica.
The products and the claims made about specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
A new study has found that healthy people who take certain
NSAID (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
pain relievers may increase their risk of heart attack and stroke.
People commonly use NSAIDs, especially OTC formulations, to reduce fever and relieve pain caused by conditions such as arthritis, headache, toothache, back pain, muscle pain, menstrual cramps or minor injury.
Previous studies linked NSAIDs and cardiovascular risks in persons with other high risk factors or established heart disease, however this study is the first to measure the increased cardiovascular risk caused by NSAIDs in healthy people.
“We conducted this study to answer whether any specific NSAID carried a risk of cardiovascular adverse events among healthy individuals and to explore if there were safer alternatives within the group of NSAIDs,” study authors said.
Researchers in Denmark studied 1,028,437 healthy Danish individuals with an average age of 39 from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2005 for increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality with the use of rofecoxib (Vioxx), diclofenac, celecoxib, naproxen and ibuprofen.
Rofecoxib, marketed as the brand name Vioxx, is no longer available in the United States. Merck voluntarily withdrew the drug from the market in 2004 after studies showed an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Vioxx was widely used in the U.S. before its withdrawal, generating $2.5 billion in sales revenue in 2003.
Diclofenac, marketed as brand names Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren, Voltaren-XR and Zipsor, and Celecoxib marketed as Celebrex are only available by prescription in the U.S., while consumers can purchase ibuprofen over-the-counter (OTC) as brand names such as Advil, Motrin, Midol and Nuprin. Naproxen is available by prescription, but consumers can also purchase naproxen (Aleve) over-the-counter.
According to Healthday News, compared to people who took no NSAIDs, researchers of the study found that patients taking diclofenac had a 91% higher risk of death from heart attack and stroke, much higher than the 66% increased risk for those taking rofecoxib (Vioxx). People taking the largest doses of diclofenac saw risk of heart attack doubled and for those taking the largest doses of rofecoxib (Vioxx) risk tripled.
Perhaps the most relevant study finding for U.S consumers self-medicating with OTC ibuprofen products is that ibuprofen showed a 29% higher risk of stroke.
Researchers found no increased risk of heart attack or stroke with use of naproxen. Their analyses of celecoxib were not conclusive.
“Because treatment with NSAIDs is so widely distributed in the general population, it is also of great importance that a safe alternative is found when NSAID treatment cannot be avoided. The safety of naproxen has been much debated, but it is widely accepted that naproxen is probably the NSAID with the safest cardiovascular risk profile, and our results support this assumption,” the researchers said. “Our results suggest that naproxen could be a safer alternative when NSAID treatment is required.”
The study appears in the June 8, 2010 issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, a Journal of the American Heart Association.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires drug labels for NSAIDs to warn of increased risk of heart attack or stroke associated with long-term continuous use of the drug. The Denmark study population had a median exposure time to NSAIDs of 14 days, indicating short-time exposure in most individuals.
Retrieved from http://newyorkcity.injuryboard.com/fda-and-prescription-drugs/popular-nsaid-pain-relievers-increase-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke.aspx?googleid=282136
See our list of natural alternatives to NSAIDS below:
Some of the side effects and health risks associated with taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) include stomach bleeding, ulcers, nausea, rash, headaches, dizziness, liver and/or kidney damage, and according to a recent Denmark study, NSAID use can increase the risk for heart attack and stroke (see article above). it is important to know about safer alternatives for reducing inflammation and pain. Natural products also support, rather than interrupt, the healing process. There are several choices when it comes to natural anti-inflammatory products. Keep in mind that not everyone responds the same. As long as there is no medical reason to not use a natural product, give it time to take effect. If you don't see results in a reasonable period of time, try another product.
1) ResVita Ultimate (Formerly Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate)
Contains Resveratrol, Alpha Lipoic acid, and Green Tea
Alpha lipoic acid is thought to work as an antioxidant in both water and fatty tissue, enabling it to enter all parts of the nerve cell and protect it from damage.Preliminary studies suggest that alpha lipoic acid may help. In one of the largest studies on the use of alpha lipoic acid, 181 people took 600 mg, 1200 mg or 1800 mg of alpha lipoic acid a day or a placebo. After 5 weeks, alpha lipoic acid improved symptoms. The dose that was best tolerated while still providing benefit was 600 mg once daily.
Green tea (Camellia sinensis) is great for stiff muscles—it has nine muscle-relaxing compounds, more than just about any other plant.
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-1.17Then a study led by some of the same researchers from Cornell Medical College in New York City revealed resveratrol's COX-2 inhibitory effects.18
A compound found in plants such as grapes can protect intervertebral disc cartilage and reverse cartilage damage, which may have implications for treating disc damage responsible for back pain, according to research published in the Nov. 15 issue of Spine. Xin Li, M.D., Ph.D., from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, and colleagues investigated the effect of the phytoestrogen resveratrol, found in plants including grapes and red wines, on bovine disc cells. Previous work had shown that resveratrol could protect articular cartilage from damage, the study authors note.
2) FatBurner
Contains White willow bark, Garcinia, green tea and cinnamon
White willow bark is one of the oldest home analgesics, dating back to 500 b.c. in China. Modern research confirms old-time wisdom, showing it helps back, osteoarthritic and nerve pains. Willow bark contains apigenin, salicin and salicylic acid, which provide anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-neuralgic actions. At the end of a four-week study of 210 individuals suffering from back pain, reported in the American Journal of Medicine in 2000, 39 percent of those who had received 240 mg of salicin daily were essentially pain-free, compared to 6 percent of those given a placebo.
Cinnamon is considered a pain-killer due to its prostaglandin-inhibiting action.
Garcinia kola appeared to have clinically significant analgesic/anti-inflammatory effects in knee osteoarthritis patients. Garcinia kola is a potential osteoarthritis disease activity modifier
3) Rhodi Ultimate (Formerly Rhodigandha)
contains Rhodiola and Ashwagandha, Acai, Pomegranate
For people who suffer from neurological disorders, rhodiola rosea may be able to offer the comfort needed to enjoy day-to-day living. The herb acts as a muscle relaxant and also regulates blood flow.
For those who suffer from fibromyalgia, rhodiola rosea regulates the adrenal glands which may not be producing enough cortisol. Cortisol is used by the body to reduce muscle stress and pain. In some people, the adrenal glands secrete too much cortisol and a person may not have enough to sustain them throughout the day. Rhodiola rosea is used to help the adrenal gland slow down and secrete enough cortisol for the entire day. This helps a person who is suffering from fibrolmyalgia to sleep through the night and function normally throughout the day.
Ashwagandha also relaxes blood vessels and stimulates circulation and has an anti-inflammatory and tonic effect in rheumatic and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. Animal studies have found that naturally occurring steroids in ashwaganda are more potent than treatment with the synthetic steroid hydrocortisone for controlling inflammation. Ashwagandha is also used in the treatment of low back pain and sciatica.
The products and the claims made about specific products have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. The information provided on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
20 benefits of taking Ashwagandha
A powerful tonic and adaptogen, Ashwagandha helps reduce stress and promote overall well-being. Ashwagandha is a traditional Ayurvedic herb used in India for more than 3,000 years and is often referred to as “Indian Ginseng. Ashwagandha works as an adaptogen, promoting the body's ability to maintain homeostasis and resist stress. It prevents or minimizes imbalances that may lead to disease, whether from poor diet, lack of sleep, mental or physical strain, or chemical toxins in the environment. Ashwagandha can be used by both men and women.
1. A plant with several medicinal properties, is known to help treat disorders such as fatigue
2. Because of its anti-stress properties, Ashwagandha is useful in treating stress-related illnesses. Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center also evaluated the effects of the herb and found that extracts of the Ashwagandha had activities that were similar to GABA that might tell us why the herb is so effective in providing stress relief.
3. It has been administered as a natural anti-depressant with no side effects. A study involving 25 individuals with depression found that ashwagandha supplementation over a period of two months offered noticeable improvement in both anxiety and depression symptoms.
4. It has also been used to enhance sexual potency for men and women and is widely recognized for its rejuvenating properties. Ashwagandha root was used historically as an aphrodisiac. This herb is mentioned in the ancient Kama Sutra as an herb to be used for heightening sexual experience, This herb has the ability to restore sexual health and improve overall vitality while promoting a calm state of mind. Laboratory studies show it can produce nitric oxide which is known to dilate blood vessels.
5. Ashwagandha which has been called the “Indian Ginseng” has an amazing quality that is rare among medicinal herbs. It is generally acknowledged to have the ability to revitalize and improve human memory.
6. Hair loss may be caused by a lot of things. One factor is a weakened immune system. Ashwagandha provides hope to those having hair loss problems. Ashwagandha makes you feel energized and healthier. It stops stress, increases vigor and may help regrow lost hair.
7. Ashwagandha has been the subject of several recent, significant, independent studies, which point to its possible, promising effectiveness in stimulating the thyroid, and subsequently relieving the effects of hypothyroidism, or under active thyroid, including weight gain, depression, constipation and sluggishness
8. Helps control the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which may mean less belly fat!
9. Can be used as a natural alternative for menopause. Ashwagandha is helpful in dealing with sleeping trouble, alleviating stress, increasing stamina and balancing hormones by working with the adrenal glands. The antioxidants in ashwagandha help reduce symptoms like mild hot flashes, anxiety and depression associated with menopause.
10. Great for those who suffer from mild anxiety and want to try a natural remedy. A study done in 1991 at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center indicated that extracts of ashwagandha had GABA-like activity. This may account for this herb’s anti-anxiety effects.
11. One small study found ashwagandha root was able to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and had a diuretic effect.
12. Ashwagandha is used in India to treat mental deficits in geriatric patients, including amnesia.
13. For a 2008 study, scientists tested ashwagandha's effects on human cartilage and found that the herb may help protect against inflammation and cartilage damage associated with osteoarthritis.
14. Helps with fertility. In a study men and women were given root powder of W. somnifera for 3 months. Results showed decrease in stress, improved the level of anti-oxidants and improved overall semen quality in a significant number of individuals. The treatment resulted in pregnancy in the partners of 14% of the patients.
15. Ashwagandha has been used to reduce the symptoms of drug withdrawal.
16. Eases alcohol withdrawal symptoms. In 2009, researchers from the National Institute on Drug Dependence at Peking University in Beijing evaluated the benefits of using traditional herbal remedies in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. While there's no data on humans identifying the advantages of using Withania somnifera for alcoholism treatment, the study, published in the "American Journal of Drug Alcohol Abuse," found that ashwagandha may help addicts reduce alcohol intake. Ashwagandha can be used to complement proven medications for drug withdrawal treatment, and possibly, prevention of relapse.
17. Relives adverse effects caused by alcohol consumption (hangover) especially when combined with Rhodiola. extracts from Rhodiola Rosea will sober up most people within less than an hour and have you wake up feeling like a night of drinking never took place. After all, a hangover is just leftover toxins from too much alcohol and adaptogens will help flush them out.
18. Ashwagandha also has antioxidant properties and therefore is beneficial for anti aging
19. Can help with Asthma symptoms. Many times asthma attacks are caused by allergies. Because adaptogens work so well on allergies, they can also greatly reduce the number and severity of asthma attacks. Asthma attacks can also be induced by stress; adaptogens take care of that too.
20. Ashwagandha has been found to have important healing effects on solid tissues, skin support, connective tissue, lymph tissues, blood vessels, and mucous membranes. Ashwagandha has found its most successful applications in treatment of conditions involving venous insufficiency, tissue inflammation and infection, and post-surgical healing.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
The statements on this website and this web page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. FDA laws do not allow any nutritional product to claim relief from or curing of any disease; only FDA approved drugs can make statements or claims of disease cure.
1. A plant with several medicinal properties, is known to help treat disorders such as fatigue
2. Because of its anti-stress properties, Ashwagandha is useful in treating stress-related illnesses. Researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center also evaluated the effects of the herb and found that extracts of the Ashwagandha had activities that were similar to GABA that might tell us why the herb is so effective in providing stress relief.
3. It has been administered as a natural anti-depressant with no side effects. A study involving 25 individuals with depression found that ashwagandha supplementation over a period of two months offered noticeable improvement in both anxiety and depression symptoms.
4. It has also been used to enhance sexual potency for men and women and is widely recognized for its rejuvenating properties. Ashwagandha root was used historically as an aphrodisiac. This herb is mentioned in the ancient Kama Sutra as an herb to be used for heightening sexual experience, This herb has the ability to restore sexual health and improve overall vitality while promoting a calm state of mind. Laboratory studies show it can produce nitric oxide which is known to dilate blood vessels.
5. Ashwagandha which has been called the “Indian Ginseng” has an amazing quality that is rare among medicinal herbs. It is generally acknowledged to have the ability to revitalize and improve human memory.
6. Hair loss may be caused by a lot of things. One factor is a weakened immune system. Ashwagandha provides hope to those having hair loss problems. Ashwagandha makes you feel energized and healthier. It stops stress, increases vigor and may help regrow lost hair.
7. Ashwagandha has been the subject of several recent, significant, independent studies, which point to its possible, promising effectiveness in stimulating the thyroid, and subsequently relieving the effects of hypothyroidism, or under active thyroid, including weight gain, depression, constipation and sluggishness
8. Helps control the levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which may mean less belly fat!
9. Can be used as a natural alternative for menopause. Ashwagandha is helpful in dealing with sleeping trouble, alleviating stress, increasing stamina and balancing hormones by working with the adrenal glands. The antioxidants in ashwagandha help reduce symptoms like mild hot flashes, anxiety and depression associated with menopause.
10. Great for those who suffer from mild anxiety and want to try a natural remedy. A study done in 1991 at the Department of Pharmacology, University of Texas Health Science Center indicated that extracts of ashwagandha had GABA-like activity. This may account for this herb’s anti-anxiety effects.
11. One small study found ashwagandha root was able to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and had a diuretic effect.
12. Ashwagandha is used in India to treat mental deficits in geriatric patients, including amnesia.
13. For a 2008 study, scientists tested ashwagandha's effects on human cartilage and found that the herb may help protect against inflammation and cartilage damage associated with osteoarthritis.
14. Helps with fertility. In a study men and women were given root powder of W. somnifera for 3 months. Results showed decrease in stress, improved the level of anti-oxidants and improved overall semen quality in a significant number of individuals. The treatment resulted in pregnancy in the partners of 14% of the patients.
15. Ashwagandha has been used to reduce the symptoms of drug withdrawal.
16. Eases alcohol withdrawal symptoms. In 2009, researchers from the National Institute on Drug Dependence at Peking University in Beijing evaluated the benefits of using traditional herbal remedies in the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction. While there's no data on humans identifying the advantages of using Withania somnifera for alcoholism treatment, the study, published in the "American Journal of Drug Alcohol Abuse," found that ashwagandha may help addicts reduce alcohol intake. Ashwagandha can be used to complement proven medications for drug withdrawal treatment, and possibly, prevention of relapse.
17. Relives adverse effects caused by alcohol consumption (hangover) especially when combined with Rhodiola. extracts from Rhodiola Rosea will sober up most people within less than an hour and have you wake up feeling like a night of drinking never took place. After all, a hangover is just leftover toxins from too much alcohol and adaptogens will help flush them out.
18. Ashwagandha also has antioxidant properties and therefore is beneficial for anti aging
19. Can help with Asthma symptoms. Many times asthma attacks are caused by allergies. Because adaptogens work so well on allergies, they can also greatly reduce the number and severity of asthma attacks. Asthma attacks can also be induced by stress; adaptogens take care of that too.
20. Ashwagandha has been found to have important healing effects on solid tissues, skin support, connective tissue, lymph tissues, blood vessels, and mucous membranes. Ashwagandha has found its most successful applications in treatment of conditions involving venous insufficiency, tissue inflammation and infection, and post-surgical healing.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
The statements on this website and this web page have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. FDA laws do not allow any nutritional product to claim relief from or curing of any disease; only FDA approved drugs can make statements or claims of disease cure.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Herbal Preparation for Stem Cell Retrieval
By definition, a stem cell is characterized by its ability to self-renew and its ability to differentiate along multiple lineage pathways. Ideally, a stem cell for regenerative medicinal applications should meet the following criteria:
Can be found in abundant quantities (millions to billions of cells)
Can be harvested by a minimally invasive procedure
Can be differentiated along multiple cell lineage pathways in a regulatable and reproducible manner.
Green cell therapy increases adult stem cells and stem cell release for optimum health benefits. Green cell therapy helps by getting rid of toxins that block nutritional benefits in your body. Green cell therapy may enable the effective use of nutrients in your body to the greatest degree possible.
Look for this in you green superfood supplement:
Should be made of organic ingredients.
Should be made of wild crafted ingredients.
Should have ingredients from seaweeds.
Should have as many super foods as possible, like kale, horsetail, spinach, nettles, parsley, alfalfa, wheat grass, oat grass, and barley grass to mention just a few.
Should have spirulina and chlorella added (algae).
Should contain probiotics.
Should contain enzymes.
Should contain enzymatically active sprouts.
Should be free from fillers.
Should be free from preservatives.
Should be free from sweeteners.
No GMO products.
Should be fresh freeze-dried or cold-dried.
A Green superfood supplements is also good for Mother Earth.
All the chemicals we use also have a big impact on our nature. Our goal should be to gradually shift to organic products. We find toxic chemicals in so many different products that we use and surround our self by daily, not only in fruit and vegetables. We find chemicals in cosmetics, body care products, kid’s toys and clothing’s, just to mention a few. Change to organically produced products and Mother Earth and your kids will thank you.
Green superfood powders are not a replacement for fruits and vegetables.
Organic green superfood supplements are meant as just that, a supplement, and not as a replacement for fruit and vegetables or other healthy whole foods.
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.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Prostate cancer... herbal thoughts. Click here
Prostate cancer, meaning cancer of the prostate gland, is a common adenocarcinoma in men. The probability of getting prostate cancer rises with age. It is generally treated by surgically removing the small prostate gland or with radiation. It is generally detected by high PSA levels and/or by surgical biopsies.
Inhibiting angiogenesis alone can be effective in some cases of cancer. But for breast and prostate cancer, addition of an aromatase inhibitor may prove to be a more effective regimen because many aspects of the cancer are being targeted at the same time. First, the formation of blood vessels that feed the tumor is prevented. Second, by precluding the action of aromatase, estrogen production is greatly diminished, helping prevent the proliferation of tumor cells.
Treatment with either an angiogenesis or an aromatase inhibitor by itself certainly has merit. But combining both therapies, particularly for estrogen-responsive diseases like breast and prostate cancer, has such tremendous potential success that it should be considered as a complementary treatment.
Although aromatase activity has been detected in malignant prostate cancer tissues, the use of aromatase inhibitors as standard prostate cancer treatment is not yet considered the norm. But they are currently being explored as potential therapy because of emerging research linking aromatase expression, estrogen dominance and prostate cancer.
PriVita is an herbal product designed with estrogen blocking and aromatase inhibition in mind. It contains resveratrol, pomegranate, green tea, turmeric and many other antioxidant ingredients. Resveratrol works through more than a dozen different anticancer mechanisms and selectively targets cancer cells. This single supplement modulates hormones, has several mechanisms that stop cancer cells from multiplying, and even has the ability to destroy cancer cells.One remarkable aspect of resveratrol is that it can be very toxic to cancer cells but does not harm healthy cells; in fact, a person taking resveratrol for protection against prostate cancer may receive cardiovascular benefits as a side effect. Another important aspect of resveratrol is that it may be combined with other phytofactors to potentially enhance its effects. Resveratrol naturally occurs with other polyphenols such as quercetin in plants such as grapes. Pomegranate juice An antioxidant that delays rise in PSA (doubling time indicating tumor growth), as well as helping promote penile blood flow to reduce erectile dysfunction. Indole-3-Carbinol An anti-cancer compound found in cruciferous vegetables that decreases the risk of developing cancer. Green Tea Boosts immune system and induces prostate cancer programmed cell death (apoptosis)
The products and statements made about specific products on this web site have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. All information provided on this web site or any information contained on or in any product label or packaging is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care professional. You should not use the information on this web site for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new vitamins, supplements, diet, or exercise program, before taking any medication, or if you have or suspect you might have a health problem.
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