Healthy Eating Summed Up
by: Dr. Jamie Fettig
Eat food that is:
Fresh Pure.
The benefits of junk food are not worth the hidden price you have to pay.
Remind yourself "why" you are eating healthy daily
These Myths are NOT true:
Eating Cholesterol does not increase your cholesterol levels
Salt does NOT cause High Blood Pressure
Eating Fat does NOT make you fat
All refined carbohydrates are hazardous to you
Artificial sweeteners of all kinds are not good for you
All vitamins and supplements are NOT created equal
Diet Food really does taste bad. True Healthy food is good.
Healthy food is easier in the long run.
Junk food really is bad for you
About The Author
Dr. Jamie Fettig
I share all of these in more detail in my free e-course. Go to http://www.HealthyEatingDiet.com to get the full e-course. Dr. Jamie wants to help give you Permanent Results with his "non-diet." He is also giving you dozens of valuable free gifts to "ethically bribe" you into helping him make his new book, "The Ultimate Non-Diet" a #1 best seller. For details on the book go to: http://www.TheUltimateNonDiet.com/free.
Yeast Infection No More
Friday, June 6, 2008
How to Reduce Belly Fat?
How to Reduce Belly Fat ?
by: Kathryn Martyn, M.NLP
If you have excess weight only in specific parts of your body, you still must look at yourself as a whole. It's not possible to spot reduce; in other words, you can't dictate that you only want weight to come off one place or another. In most cases your so called "trouble spots" is where the fat will come off last, so be prepared to lose weight in your fingers (rings fall off) and your face (friends may ask if you're feeling all right).
If you work toward building muscle and reducing body fat you will eventually tackle those trouble spots though, and develop a better physique in the process. Muscle tissue is active meaning it requires calories to be maintained. If you were stranded without a food supply, eventually your body would turn to its own muscle tissue as a source of nutrition first (muscles are protein) while saving the fat stores for last. Simply put, fat is nature's way of ensuring survival during times of famine. That's why the prevalence of heart failure kills someone who is severely malnourished. By building more muscle you become a more efficient energy burning machine which translates to mean you can eat more food! That to me is a good thing.
The More Active You Are, The More You Get to Eat!
That explains why some people can eat so much more than others yet not gain weight; your efficient energy burning friend simply has a greater proportion of muscle to fat than you. Muscle is more dense than fat. It's often said that a pound of muscle is heavier than a pound of fat, but the truth is a pound is a pound. What they mean is a one pound volume of muscle is a smaller package than a one pound volume of fat, or put another way, fat is billowy and fluffy while muscle is sleek and compact. Lady No. 1 weighs 120 pounds with 30% body fat so she has 84 pounds of lean tissue and 36 pounds of fat, while Lady No. 2 also weighing 120 pounds but at 18% body fat is carrying roughly 98 pounds of muscle and 22 pounds of fat. Would you rather be Lady No. 1 or Lady No. 2? Which do you think takes up more space, 22 or 36 pounds of fat? I'd say 36 pounds of fat would be a lot bigger package than 22 pounds.
That is why body weight as a number by itself is meaningless, but your ratio of fat to muscle is very important and worth working to change. Strive to decrease your body fat and increase your muscle mass and you'll look better, you'll feel stronger and more energetic and you'll simply be healthier.
You can generally have your body fat tested at fitness centers and most gyms so ask about having it done. It's better to know you have 30% body fat and work to reduce it to 29, than not to know and only think in terms of body weight. Most people who think only of how much they weigh tend to do everything to reduce that weight, and it's usually at the expense of losing more valuable muscle.
The best way to increase muscle and decrease fat is through a consistent exercise program. Start at whatever is your beginning, but do start.
Begin with an overall body conditioning type exercise program, doing whatever you enjoy, whether it be a sport, gardening, weight lifting, biking, hiking, or any other activity. Any physical movement you do regularly counts as exercise even if it is doing laundry or taking out the trash. Get as much as you can out of every chore you do, and stop thinking of it as a chore but instead as an opportunity to move your body.
In the early 1900s a washing machine was a new invention. People used to wash their clothes by hand, and hang them outside to dry. Being a housewife was actually a pretty strenuous job. It's no wonder women were thankful for modern conveniences like automatic washers and dryers, but now we've come to where our daily activities are not taking our bodies at all, so unless we want to get fatter and fatter we must do something about it.
Get Fit and Belly Fat Disappears
It doesn't make sense to drive around and around in the parking lot looking for the closest space when you're on your way to run or walk on the treadmill. Why take the elevator five flights every day at work and then pay a monthly fee to do the StairMaster after work? What if we all started to notice that our world is full of exercise equipment. We could become so much more fit if we'd just start to notice all the opportunities for physical movement we miss in the name of convenience. Look around and see if you can spot some exercise opportunities, and then get busy and get fit.
About The Author
Kathryn Martyn, Master NLP Practitioner, author of Changing Beliefs, Your First Step to Permanent Weight Loss
http://www.OneMoreBite-Weightloss.com
Get The Daily Bites: Inspirational Mini Lessons to Use EFT and NLP and End Your Struggle with Weight Loss
http://www.onemorebite-weightloss.com/getnews.html
by: Kathryn Martyn, M.NLP
If you have excess weight only in specific parts of your body, you still must look at yourself as a whole. It's not possible to spot reduce; in other words, you can't dictate that you only want weight to come off one place or another. In most cases your so called "trouble spots" is where the fat will come off last, so be prepared to lose weight in your fingers (rings fall off) and your face (friends may ask if you're feeling all right).
If you work toward building muscle and reducing body fat you will eventually tackle those trouble spots though, and develop a better physique in the process. Muscle tissue is active meaning it requires calories to be maintained. If you were stranded without a food supply, eventually your body would turn to its own muscle tissue as a source of nutrition first (muscles are protein) while saving the fat stores for last. Simply put, fat is nature's way of ensuring survival during times of famine. That's why the prevalence of heart failure kills someone who is severely malnourished. By building more muscle you become a more efficient energy burning machine which translates to mean you can eat more food! That to me is a good thing.
The More Active You Are, The More You Get to Eat!
That explains why some people can eat so much more than others yet not gain weight; your efficient energy burning friend simply has a greater proportion of muscle to fat than you. Muscle is more dense than fat. It's often said that a pound of muscle is heavier than a pound of fat, but the truth is a pound is a pound. What they mean is a one pound volume of muscle is a smaller package than a one pound volume of fat, or put another way, fat is billowy and fluffy while muscle is sleek and compact. Lady No. 1 weighs 120 pounds with 30% body fat so she has 84 pounds of lean tissue and 36 pounds of fat, while Lady No. 2 also weighing 120 pounds but at 18% body fat is carrying roughly 98 pounds of muscle and 22 pounds of fat. Would you rather be Lady No. 1 or Lady No. 2? Which do you think takes up more space, 22 or 36 pounds of fat? I'd say 36 pounds of fat would be a lot bigger package than 22 pounds.
That is why body weight as a number by itself is meaningless, but your ratio of fat to muscle is very important and worth working to change. Strive to decrease your body fat and increase your muscle mass and you'll look better, you'll feel stronger and more energetic and you'll simply be healthier.
You can generally have your body fat tested at fitness centers and most gyms so ask about having it done. It's better to know you have 30% body fat and work to reduce it to 29, than not to know and only think in terms of body weight. Most people who think only of how much they weigh tend to do everything to reduce that weight, and it's usually at the expense of losing more valuable muscle.
The best way to increase muscle and decrease fat is through a consistent exercise program. Start at whatever is your beginning, but do start.
Begin with an overall body conditioning type exercise program, doing whatever you enjoy, whether it be a sport, gardening, weight lifting, biking, hiking, or any other activity. Any physical movement you do regularly counts as exercise even if it is doing laundry or taking out the trash. Get as much as you can out of every chore you do, and stop thinking of it as a chore but instead as an opportunity to move your body.
In the early 1900s a washing machine was a new invention. People used to wash their clothes by hand, and hang them outside to dry. Being a housewife was actually a pretty strenuous job. It's no wonder women were thankful for modern conveniences like automatic washers and dryers, but now we've come to where our daily activities are not taking our bodies at all, so unless we want to get fatter and fatter we must do something about it.
Get Fit and Belly Fat Disappears
It doesn't make sense to drive around and around in the parking lot looking for the closest space when you're on your way to run or walk on the treadmill. Why take the elevator five flights every day at work and then pay a monthly fee to do the StairMaster after work? What if we all started to notice that our world is full of exercise equipment. We could become so much more fit if we'd just start to notice all the opportunities for physical movement we miss in the name of convenience. Look around and see if you can spot some exercise opportunities, and then get busy and get fit.
About The Author
Kathryn Martyn, Master NLP Practitioner, author of Changing Beliefs, Your First Step to Permanent Weight Loss
http://www.OneMoreBite-Weightloss.com
Get The Daily Bites: Inspirational Mini Lessons to Use EFT and NLP and End Your Struggle with Weight Loss
http://www.onemorebite-weightloss.com/getnews.html
Steps To Lose Belly Fat
Steps To Lose Belly Fat
by: Yu Chung Leong
Looking for steps to lose belly fat? Well, here are some tips and tricks that you can use to lose that gut. Not everyone wants a washboard abs but if you just want to trim down some inches around the waist and get a flatter stomach, these tips can help you.
Belly fat seems to be a huge problem for lots of people, especially men. Naturally, men tend to hold more fat around their waist line, which we call love handles. Besides the biologically nature of men, modern lifestyle also have a huge impact on this. Work, stress, entertaining clients and lack of exercise contribute to the accumulation of belly fat.
Well, lets not get into the cause of obesity and weight gain but rather focus on some solutions that you can take to lose belly fat.
Lose belly fat step 1
Decrease that alcohol consumption. I am sure that most people know that alcohol can cause weight gain, but I am certain that they do not know the degree of impact that alcohol can cause. Excess alcohol consumption can really give you that belly. Have you seen people that are slim all over but have a belly sticking out? Well, that is effect of excess alcohol consumption. One gram of alcohol, which is can be calculated as one ml of alcohol contains 7 calories. Even thought the amount of calories is lesser than of fat, alcohol calories are completely useless. Alcohol does not contain any nutrients at all. So, the entire amount of calories consumed through alcohol will be stored as fat!
Alcohol is also in the form of liquid. That means, you can really consume a lot at one sitting! I am not saying that you should avoid alcohol totally, just go for moderation. Do not drink everyday and limit your self to one glass of wine or one bottle of beer.
Lose belly fat step 2
Try not to have late night snacks. Late night snacks are a favorite because we usually snack while we watch a late night movie, have supper with friends to have chitchat and sometimes, if we work late, we also tend to eat very late at night. The only problem with late night snacking is that there is not much activity done after that. People go straight to bed right after the late night meal because they are tired. So, this will cause high sugar levels in the blood stream and no energy spent after that. The excess sugar will just turn into fat and be stored under the skin.
Try to consume you last meal around 2-3 hours before your bedtime. If you are hungry during late nights, consume a small meal instead which just enough to fill your stomach.
Lose belly fat step 3
Slow down on the carbohydrates and bulk up your vegetables instead. Consuming too much carbohydrate can bump up your insulin level which can slow down your metabolism. Your body cannot metabolize too much carbohydrate at once because the body doesn’t need so much energy at once. The excess sugar will just turn into body fat.
Combine your meals with a good combination of protein, carbohydrate and vegetables. Your source of protein should be in a size of a deck of cards; the carbohydrates in a size of your palm and the major bulk of your meals should come from vegetables.
Lose belly fat step 4
Throw out the junk food and forget about the junk food! You are what you eat. If you eat a lot of junk with a lot of high saturated fats, then you will end up like fat with a junk heart! Do not store junk food like cookies, chips, sweets and other similar products in your house. If you do not have these bad foods lying around, you will not think about it and after sometime, you will break the bad eating habits.
Lose belly fat step 5
Exercise, exercise, exercise! Get your lazy but off the couch, put down the beer and head on to the gym. A fitness center, gym or a health club is for everyone. Do not feel shy going into these places. If you do not know how to get started, hire a personal trainer to kick off your new healthy lifestyle. If you want to exercise by yourself, get some books on weight loss and exercise to help you start off the right track. I highly recommend the “ Metabolic Surge” weight loss exercise program because it covers the fundamentals of exercise.
Workout with weights at least 2 times per week and do your cardio at least 3 times a week. Each weight session is around 45 minutes and each cardio session is around 30 mins. So, actually, you can just workout 3 times a week. 2 days you will combine weights and cardio and on one day you just do your cardio. Its actually very little time spent on your health. Everybody have time, it’s just that you have to make the time and put your health as your priority.
Get more fat burning tips at http://www.weightloss-ways.com/tips.html
About The Author
Yu Chung Leong
Hello, I have been a personal trainer since 2000. I have also joined bodybuilding junior competition and claimed my first state title in 2001 and from there I moved on to joining male pageants and won my first Mr. Intercontinental for Malaysia in the year 2002. Life has been interesting and fitness has really changed my life. I used to be fat and now, since I have managed to lose weight successfully, I share my knowledge and passion with my clients!
Yours sincerely from http://www.weightloss-ways.com
by: Yu Chung Leong
Looking for steps to lose belly fat? Well, here are some tips and tricks that you can use to lose that gut. Not everyone wants a washboard abs but if you just want to trim down some inches around the waist and get a flatter stomach, these tips can help you.
Belly fat seems to be a huge problem for lots of people, especially men. Naturally, men tend to hold more fat around their waist line, which we call love handles. Besides the biologically nature of men, modern lifestyle also have a huge impact on this. Work, stress, entertaining clients and lack of exercise contribute to the accumulation of belly fat.
Well, lets not get into the cause of obesity and weight gain but rather focus on some solutions that you can take to lose belly fat.
Lose belly fat step 1
Decrease that alcohol consumption. I am sure that most people know that alcohol can cause weight gain, but I am certain that they do not know the degree of impact that alcohol can cause. Excess alcohol consumption can really give you that belly. Have you seen people that are slim all over but have a belly sticking out? Well, that is effect of excess alcohol consumption. One gram of alcohol, which is can be calculated as one ml of alcohol contains 7 calories. Even thought the amount of calories is lesser than of fat, alcohol calories are completely useless. Alcohol does not contain any nutrients at all. So, the entire amount of calories consumed through alcohol will be stored as fat!
Alcohol is also in the form of liquid. That means, you can really consume a lot at one sitting! I am not saying that you should avoid alcohol totally, just go for moderation. Do not drink everyday and limit your self to one glass of wine or one bottle of beer.
Lose belly fat step 2
Try not to have late night snacks. Late night snacks are a favorite because we usually snack while we watch a late night movie, have supper with friends to have chitchat and sometimes, if we work late, we also tend to eat very late at night. The only problem with late night snacking is that there is not much activity done after that. People go straight to bed right after the late night meal because they are tired. So, this will cause high sugar levels in the blood stream and no energy spent after that. The excess sugar will just turn into fat and be stored under the skin.
Try to consume you last meal around 2-3 hours before your bedtime. If you are hungry during late nights, consume a small meal instead which just enough to fill your stomach.
Lose belly fat step 3
Slow down on the carbohydrates and bulk up your vegetables instead. Consuming too much carbohydrate can bump up your insulin level which can slow down your metabolism. Your body cannot metabolize too much carbohydrate at once because the body doesn’t need so much energy at once. The excess sugar will just turn into body fat.
Combine your meals with a good combination of protein, carbohydrate and vegetables. Your source of protein should be in a size of a deck of cards; the carbohydrates in a size of your palm and the major bulk of your meals should come from vegetables.
Lose belly fat step 4
Throw out the junk food and forget about the junk food! You are what you eat. If you eat a lot of junk with a lot of high saturated fats, then you will end up like fat with a junk heart! Do not store junk food like cookies, chips, sweets and other similar products in your house. If you do not have these bad foods lying around, you will not think about it and after sometime, you will break the bad eating habits.
Lose belly fat step 5
Exercise, exercise, exercise! Get your lazy but off the couch, put down the beer and head on to the gym. A fitness center, gym or a health club is for everyone. Do not feel shy going into these places. If you do not know how to get started, hire a personal trainer to kick off your new healthy lifestyle. If you want to exercise by yourself, get some books on weight loss and exercise to help you start off the right track. I highly recommend the “ Metabolic Surge” weight loss exercise program because it covers the fundamentals of exercise.
Workout with weights at least 2 times per week and do your cardio at least 3 times a week. Each weight session is around 45 minutes and each cardio session is around 30 mins. So, actually, you can just workout 3 times a week. 2 days you will combine weights and cardio and on one day you just do your cardio. Its actually very little time spent on your health. Everybody have time, it’s just that you have to make the time and put your health as your priority.
Get more fat burning tips at http://www.weightloss-ways.com/tips.html
About The Author
Yu Chung Leong
Hello, I have been a personal trainer since 2000. I have also joined bodybuilding junior competition and claimed my first state title in 2001 and from there I moved on to joining male pageants and won my first Mr. Intercontinental for Malaysia in the year 2002. Life has been interesting and fitness has really changed my life. I used to be fat and now, since I have managed to lose weight successfully, I share my knowledge and passion with my clients!
Yours sincerely from http://www.weightloss-ways.com
Why Has Wheatgrass Become So Popular?
Why Has Wheatgrass Become So Popular?
by: Kerris Samson
It is now found that you can get Wheatgrass everywhere these days. Not only is it being offered in smoothies and juices, but also in salads and even in tablet and powder form.
As many people will tell you Wheatgrass provides the human body with a substantial amount of nutrients which includes (per 3.5 grams of Wheatgrass) 860mg of protein, 18.5mg of chlorophyll, 15mg of calcium, 38mg of lysine, 7.5mg of vitamin C and a number of other micronutrients including B complex vitamins and amino acids.
Many people who already consume Wheatgrass extol the virtues of it being able to help in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Certainly research carried out suggests that a persons diet which is rich in fruits and vegetables can help be preventative maintenance against many illnesses. Plus by consuming Wheatgrass a person is able to increase the vegetable part of their overall diet.
People who have been looking at the process of self-healing have also heard about the benefits of Wheatgrass. Over many years now it has been proven that Wheatgrass juice helps in many ways by cleansing a person’s lymph system, by building up blood, also by restoring the natural balance in a persons body as well as removing toxins from the cells in a body. It has also been found to help nourish both the liver and kidneys and thus restoring a persons vitality.
Consuming 1oz of Wheatgrass juice has the equivalent in vitamins and minerals if you were to consume 2.2lbs of fresh vegetables. The many benefits that Wheatgrass juice provide to us stem from the fact that it is the plants life force and therefore a living food. It is a complete protein and has about 30 enzymes within it as well as containing approximately 70% of chlorophyll in crude form.
There has certainly been some success seen in the reversal of people who have chronic degenerative diseases, especially those eating mainly a vegetarian diet and have included living foods such as Wheatgrass juice.
Therefore if you want to look after your body, then wheatgrass juice will be for you.
About The Author
Kerris Samson a work from home mum now living in Spain who has spent a large amount of time researching the subject of organic products for a healthy lifestyle. If you would like to know more please visit http://www.wholesomeorganics.info.
by: Kerris Samson
It is now found that you can get Wheatgrass everywhere these days. Not only is it being offered in smoothies and juices, but also in salads and even in tablet and powder form.
As many people will tell you Wheatgrass provides the human body with a substantial amount of nutrients which includes (per 3.5 grams of Wheatgrass) 860mg of protein, 18.5mg of chlorophyll, 15mg of calcium, 38mg of lysine, 7.5mg of vitamin C and a number of other micronutrients including B complex vitamins and amino acids.
Many people who already consume Wheatgrass extol the virtues of it being able to help in the treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Certainly research carried out suggests that a persons diet which is rich in fruits and vegetables can help be preventative maintenance against many illnesses. Plus by consuming Wheatgrass a person is able to increase the vegetable part of their overall diet.
People who have been looking at the process of self-healing have also heard about the benefits of Wheatgrass. Over many years now it has been proven that Wheatgrass juice helps in many ways by cleansing a person’s lymph system, by building up blood, also by restoring the natural balance in a persons body as well as removing toxins from the cells in a body. It has also been found to help nourish both the liver and kidneys and thus restoring a persons vitality.
Consuming 1oz of Wheatgrass juice has the equivalent in vitamins and minerals if you were to consume 2.2lbs of fresh vegetables. The many benefits that Wheatgrass juice provide to us stem from the fact that it is the plants life force and therefore a living food. It is a complete protein and has about 30 enzymes within it as well as containing approximately 70% of chlorophyll in crude form.
There has certainly been some success seen in the reversal of people who have chronic degenerative diseases, especially those eating mainly a vegetarian diet and have included living foods such as Wheatgrass juice.
Therefore if you want to look after your body, then wheatgrass juice will be for you.
About The Author
Kerris Samson a work from home mum now living in Spain who has spent a large amount of time researching the subject of organic products for a healthy lifestyle. If you would like to know more please visit http://www.wholesomeorganics.info.
How You Can Beat Belly Fat And Reduce Stress As Well
How You Can Beat Belly Fat And Reduce Stress As Well
by: Mike Vincent
Have you ever heard of a new natural remedy called Relacore? Well, if you’re worried about a bulging midsection it might be a good idea to find out about this new health supplement.
Part of the good news about Relacore is that it is based on the fact that being overweight is in a sense not your fault. Unlike what many people may be telling you, and what you may be thinking yourself, your weight problems may not be because you’re too weak-willed and self-indulgent with fatty foods.
Rather it may be that your overweight problems are stress induced.
Good news? Well, in a way, because now we know how to help you solve these problems.
According to government researchers, the link between stress, tension, and excess belly fat is clear. High levels of cortisol – a sometimes nasty little stress hormone - can cause pound after pound of excess body fat to accumulate around your waist and tummy. This is a health-threatening, figure-destroying condition affecting an estimated 47 million Americans... mostly women.
Simply stated, a bulging midsection is not your fault; it's the harmful combination of everyday stress, overeating, and excess cortisol. They all conspire to keep you overweight, tired, and thick around the middle.
So what is cortisol? Is it purely a ‘bad guy’ hormone?
No, not at all. But certain conditions can make it work that way.
The main condition that makes cortisol ‘go bad’ is stress.
In fact, doctors know this natural steroid hormone as a stress hormone. It’s produced by the adrenal cortex gland. Its uses are many. For example, cortisol works with the immune system to regulate our blood sugar levels. It is also connected with functions of the liver.
This may not seem very closely related to weight gain and loss, but let’s go on.
It’s well known that our cortisol levels constantly fluctuate, according to the time of day. Usually higher levels are present early in the day and lowers levels as the day progresses.
But beyond these patterns, there are triggers that could result in a fall or rise of the hormone during the entire day. The biggest trigger is stress related. Whenever a person feels stressed out, the body releases cortisol in strong doses.
How is that related to weight loss? Research has shown – and experts believe – that there is a likely connection between weight gain and the production of cortisol. According to this theory, whenever you feel stressed cortisol is released by the body in strong doses. Researchers believe that the extra cortisol produced by the body is what causes weight gain. You see cortisol is used in the cells in your body, so it’s thought that the extra production of cortisol, which is stress induced, works to create more fat cells.
One writer puts this stress in the context of the ‘fight or flight’ syndrome.
He notes that under stressful conditions, the adrenal gland produces more cortisol. “The cortisol releases sugar into the blood. This is all in preparation for fight or flight. With stress, the body creates the need for energy… For those under chronic stress, it may mean the risk of weight gain.”
So if we can relax, if we can stop our continuing anxiety, we can reduce stress and thus, for a good number of people, we can then start winning our personal ‘battle of the bulge’.
Naturally you’ll consult with your doctor to see what part stress or other factors play with your being overweight.
The producers of Relacore note that it is an all natural, anti-anxiety, mood elevating pill that, in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program, helps cut stress-related cortisol production, thereby helping to reduce belly fat.
Friends who try it tell me that they give Relacore a thumbs up (and that’s a skinny thumb also, after using Relacore for some time). You might consider it too.
About The Author
Mike Vincent is a health food and health supplement expert and runs the website http://www.speedyhealthsupplements.com . You can find out more about natural weight reduction supplements at his website and get other health information there.
by: Mike Vincent
Have you ever heard of a new natural remedy called Relacore? Well, if you’re worried about a bulging midsection it might be a good idea to find out about this new health supplement.
Part of the good news about Relacore is that it is based on the fact that being overweight is in a sense not your fault. Unlike what many people may be telling you, and what you may be thinking yourself, your weight problems may not be because you’re too weak-willed and self-indulgent with fatty foods.
Rather it may be that your overweight problems are stress induced.
Good news? Well, in a way, because now we know how to help you solve these problems.
According to government researchers, the link between stress, tension, and excess belly fat is clear. High levels of cortisol – a sometimes nasty little stress hormone - can cause pound after pound of excess body fat to accumulate around your waist and tummy. This is a health-threatening, figure-destroying condition affecting an estimated 47 million Americans... mostly women.
Simply stated, a bulging midsection is not your fault; it's the harmful combination of everyday stress, overeating, and excess cortisol. They all conspire to keep you overweight, tired, and thick around the middle.
So what is cortisol? Is it purely a ‘bad guy’ hormone?
No, not at all. But certain conditions can make it work that way.
The main condition that makes cortisol ‘go bad’ is stress.
In fact, doctors know this natural steroid hormone as a stress hormone. It’s produced by the adrenal cortex gland. Its uses are many. For example, cortisol works with the immune system to regulate our blood sugar levels. It is also connected with functions of the liver.
This may not seem very closely related to weight gain and loss, but let’s go on.
It’s well known that our cortisol levels constantly fluctuate, according to the time of day. Usually higher levels are present early in the day and lowers levels as the day progresses.
But beyond these patterns, there are triggers that could result in a fall or rise of the hormone during the entire day. The biggest trigger is stress related. Whenever a person feels stressed out, the body releases cortisol in strong doses.
How is that related to weight loss? Research has shown – and experts believe – that there is a likely connection between weight gain and the production of cortisol. According to this theory, whenever you feel stressed cortisol is released by the body in strong doses. Researchers believe that the extra cortisol produced by the body is what causes weight gain. You see cortisol is used in the cells in your body, so it’s thought that the extra production of cortisol, which is stress induced, works to create more fat cells.
One writer puts this stress in the context of the ‘fight or flight’ syndrome.
He notes that under stressful conditions, the adrenal gland produces more cortisol. “The cortisol releases sugar into the blood. This is all in preparation for fight or flight. With stress, the body creates the need for energy… For those under chronic stress, it may mean the risk of weight gain.”
So if we can relax, if we can stop our continuing anxiety, we can reduce stress and thus, for a good number of people, we can then start winning our personal ‘battle of the bulge’.
Naturally you’ll consult with your doctor to see what part stress or other factors play with your being overweight.
The producers of Relacore note that it is an all natural, anti-anxiety, mood elevating pill that, in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise program, helps cut stress-related cortisol production, thereby helping to reduce belly fat.
Friends who try it tell me that they give Relacore a thumbs up (and that’s a skinny thumb also, after using Relacore for some time). You might consider it too.
About The Author
Mike Vincent is a health food and health supplement expert and runs the website http://www.speedyhealthsupplements.com . You can find out more about natural weight reduction supplements at his website and get other health information there.
High Fiber Food Chart - Top Foods High In Dietary Fiber
High Fiber Food Chart - Top Foods High In Dietary Fiber
by: Olinda Rola
A high fiber food chart helps you know the foods high in dietary fiber. Adding more foods high in dietary fiber from the high fiber food chart can help you obtain the recommended 25-30 grams of fiber each day. Sufficient daily fiber intake is important, not just because of helping the bowels function, but to provide nutrients to friendly bacteria in the digestive tracts.
Low-fiber diets have been connected to numerous diseases and conditions such as colon cancer, constipation, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, heart disease, high blood pressure, hemorrhoids and varicose veins are examples. Correcting low fiber intake for your diet can help you achieve regular bowel movements necessary for optimum health.
Here are top foods high in dietary fiber along with the approximate number of grams of fiber they contain. Fiber contents shown below on the high fiber food chart are for a food quantity of 1/2 cup unless otherwise noted:
• Bananas, 3 grams - medium 8" long
• Beans, 6-10 grams - baked beans, black beans, great northern beans, kidney beans, garbanzos, pinto beans, white beans
• Berries, 4-5 grams - blackberries, raspberries
• Bran Cereals, 5-10 grams - All-Bran, Bran Buds, 100% Bran, Raisin Bran
• Bread, 4-7 grams - 2 slices whole wheat, pumpernickel, seven-grain
• Broccoli, 4-5 grams
• Brussels Sprouts, 2 grams
• Carrots, 3-4 grams
• Dried Figs, 10 grams - 3 figs
• Fruit, 4 grams - medium apple, medium pear
• Green Beans, 2 grams - broad beans, pole beans, snap beans
• Greens, 4-6 grams - beet greens, collards, kale, spinach, turnip greens
• Lentils, 6 grams
• Lima Beans - 4-6 grams
• Peas, 7-9 grams - black-eyed peas, green peas
• Potatoes, 4-5 grams - medium baked Idaho or sweet potato
• Sweet Corn, 5 grams
When making changes to your diet to include more foods from the high fiber food chart, just add a few grams at a time so your intestinal tract can adjust. And important for bowel health is that adequate liquid be present for good bowel function. Each fiber particle absorbs liquid in the colon which helps facilitate regular movement along in the bowels, so make sure that you are consuming adequate liquids daily.
If you find that after a few weeks of consuming more foods from the high fiber food chart you are still not having a daily bowel movement, consider adding a fiber supplement. One of the best natural foods high in dietary fiber is psyllium made from ground-up psyllium seeds. It may take several weeks to achieve daily bowel movements, but the reward will be that wastes and toxins will be eliminated from your system instead of your body reabsorbing them.
Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing
About The Author
Olinda Rola
Read more about overcoming constipation at http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com/constipation.html plus natural fiber supplements easily available online. Olinda Rola is President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com - a website of natural health information and articles.
by: Olinda Rola
A high fiber food chart helps you know the foods high in dietary fiber. Adding more foods high in dietary fiber from the high fiber food chart can help you obtain the recommended 25-30 grams of fiber each day. Sufficient daily fiber intake is important, not just because of helping the bowels function, but to provide nutrients to friendly bacteria in the digestive tracts.
Low-fiber diets have been connected to numerous diseases and conditions such as colon cancer, constipation, Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, heart disease, high blood pressure, hemorrhoids and varicose veins are examples. Correcting low fiber intake for your diet can help you achieve regular bowel movements necessary for optimum health.
Here are top foods high in dietary fiber along with the approximate number of grams of fiber they contain. Fiber contents shown below on the high fiber food chart are for a food quantity of 1/2 cup unless otherwise noted:
• Bananas, 3 grams - medium 8" long
• Beans, 6-10 grams - baked beans, black beans, great northern beans, kidney beans, garbanzos, pinto beans, white beans
• Berries, 4-5 grams - blackberries, raspberries
• Bran Cereals, 5-10 grams - All-Bran, Bran Buds, 100% Bran, Raisin Bran
• Bread, 4-7 grams - 2 slices whole wheat, pumpernickel, seven-grain
• Broccoli, 4-5 grams
• Brussels Sprouts, 2 grams
• Carrots, 3-4 grams
• Dried Figs, 10 grams - 3 figs
• Fruit, 4 grams - medium apple, medium pear
• Green Beans, 2 grams - broad beans, pole beans, snap beans
• Greens, 4-6 grams - beet greens, collards, kale, spinach, turnip greens
• Lentils, 6 grams
• Lima Beans - 4-6 grams
• Peas, 7-9 grams - black-eyed peas, green peas
• Potatoes, 4-5 grams - medium baked Idaho or sweet potato
• Sweet Corn, 5 grams
When making changes to your diet to include more foods from the high fiber food chart, just add a few grams at a time so your intestinal tract can adjust. And important for bowel health is that adequate liquid be present for good bowel function. Each fiber particle absorbs liquid in the colon which helps facilitate regular movement along in the bowels, so make sure that you are consuming adequate liquids daily.
If you find that after a few weeks of consuming more foods from the high fiber food chart you are still not having a daily bowel movement, consider adding a fiber supplement. One of the best natural foods high in dietary fiber is psyllium made from ground-up psyllium seeds. It may take several weeks to achieve daily bowel movements, but the reward will be that wastes and toxins will be eliminated from your system instead of your body reabsorbing them.
Copyright 2005 InfoSearch Publishing
About The Author
Olinda Rola
Read more about overcoming constipation at http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com/constipation.html plus natural fiber supplements easily available online. Olinda Rola is President of InfoSearch Publishing and webmaster of http://www.safemenopausesolutions.com - a website of natural health information and articles.
Natural Health-Body Detoxification: Is it Necessary?
Natural Health-Body Detoxification: Is it Necessary?
by: Dr. Nabil Khoury
Everyday, people are exposed to various toxins, which harm the body and cause serious diseases. These toxins can be internal toxins that are released in the body as a by-product of normal metabolic activity; or external toxins such as heavy metals (lead, aluminum etc), smoke, drugs (cocaine, steroids etc), food preservatives and additives, alcohol, chemicals, harmful organic compounds etc. The list is practically endless, which is why the process of body detoxification assumes vital proportions.
Body detoxification refers to the ability of the human body to rid itself of harmful toxins. The body performs the detoxification process through four main organs, which are:
* The Kidneys
* The Liver
* The Skin
* The Intestines
All toxins in your blood, whether internal or external, reach your liver before they reach any other part of the body. The liver then acts upon these toxins and removes them through the bile and kidneys. Some water soluble toxins may escape the liver detoxification, but these are then eliminated through the kidneys. Your skin too helps in the process of body detoxification by eliminating toxins through sweat and skin rashes.
Thus, the natural body detoxification process generally ensures that all the toxins are removed from the body. However, in recent times, natural body detoxification processes may not be very efficient in removing all the harmful toxins from the body, due to several reasons such as:
* Sluggish detoxification enzymes in the body.
* Presence of too many toxins in the modern world.
* Poor nutrition and unhealthy diets. *Increased constipation.
* Loss of equilibrium of bowel flora.
* Presence of beta-glucuronidase, which is an enzyme that reverses the detoxification process, thus leading to an increase in the amounts of bodily toxins.
Due to all these factors, the natural process of body detoxification can take a severe beating, which is why it is essential to get body detoxification support. In order to optimize the body detoxification process, you may need to do several things including:
* Go on a detoxification diet.
* Take natural nutrients and antioxidants which support the liver detoxification process.
* Undergo various therapies for colon detoxification.
* By simply doing one thing and not doing the other, you will not be able to detoxify your body effectively.
For best results regarding body detoxification, it is recommended that you seek professional help. A natural health expert will advise you about the best combination of body detoxification therapies, depending on your individual needs and interests. You will thus not need to rely on a single product which may or may not benefit you, but will have the finest resources at hand for optimum body detoxification and good health.
Copyright 2006 Nabil Khoury
About The Author
Dr. Nabil Khoury is a medical doctor. He practices integrative medicine combining allopathic medicine and natural health. Visit his website natural health and longevity bible at http://www.get-healthier.com to learn more about natural antioxidants at http://www.get-healthier.com/natural-antioxidants.html
by: Dr. Nabil Khoury
Everyday, people are exposed to various toxins, which harm the body and cause serious diseases. These toxins can be internal toxins that are released in the body as a by-product of normal metabolic activity; or external toxins such as heavy metals (lead, aluminum etc), smoke, drugs (cocaine, steroids etc), food preservatives and additives, alcohol, chemicals, harmful organic compounds etc. The list is practically endless, which is why the process of body detoxification assumes vital proportions.
Body detoxification refers to the ability of the human body to rid itself of harmful toxins. The body performs the detoxification process through four main organs, which are:
* The Kidneys
* The Liver
* The Skin
* The Intestines
All toxins in your blood, whether internal or external, reach your liver before they reach any other part of the body. The liver then acts upon these toxins and removes them through the bile and kidneys. Some water soluble toxins may escape the liver detoxification, but these are then eliminated through the kidneys. Your skin too helps in the process of body detoxification by eliminating toxins through sweat and skin rashes.
Thus, the natural body detoxification process generally ensures that all the toxins are removed from the body. However, in recent times, natural body detoxification processes may not be very efficient in removing all the harmful toxins from the body, due to several reasons such as:
* Sluggish detoxification enzymes in the body.
* Presence of too many toxins in the modern world.
* Poor nutrition and unhealthy diets. *Increased constipation.
* Loss of equilibrium of bowel flora.
* Presence of beta-glucuronidase, which is an enzyme that reverses the detoxification process, thus leading to an increase in the amounts of bodily toxins.
Due to all these factors, the natural process of body detoxification can take a severe beating, which is why it is essential to get body detoxification support. In order to optimize the body detoxification process, you may need to do several things including:
* Go on a detoxification diet.
* Take natural nutrients and antioxidants which support the liver detoxification process.
* Undergo various therapies for colon detoxification.
* By simply doing one thing and not doing the other, you will not be able to detoxify your body effectively.
For best results regarding body detoxification, it is recommended that you seek professional help. A natural health expert will advise you about the best combination of body detoxification therapies, depending on your individual needs and interests. You will thus not need to rely on a single product which may or may not benefit you, but will have the finest resources at hand for optimum body detoxification and good health.
Copyright 2006 Nabil Khoury
About The Author
Dr. Nabil Khoury is a medical doctor. He practices integrative medicine combining allopathic medicine and natural health. Visit his website natural health and longevity bible at http://www.get-healthier.com to learn more about natural antioxidants at http://www.get-healthier.com/natural-antioxidants.html
Bodyweight Fitness: 5 New Turbulence Training Exercises to Help Busy Dads Burn Belly Fat Now
Bodyweight Fitness: 5 New Turbulence Training Exercises to Help Busy Dads Burn Belly Fat Now
by: Craig Ballantyne
Gone are the days when you could spend an hour in the weight room and another 30 minutes doing cardio. With kids, there's just no time to even drive to the gym, let alone workout for more than 20 minutes. But by using the most convenient exercise equipment available – your own bodyweight – you can burn belly fat fast. And you can get your muscle definition back with simple bodyweight exercises.
So, you can forget the fancy machines, expensive gym memberships, or sharing equipment with sweaty strangers. You can forget about not spending enough time with your wife or kids. You can do this workout when you wake up or before you go to sleep. You can do this bodyweight training circuit at home before or after work. You can even close your office door and do this entire workout while everyone else is out for lunch.
5 Bodyweight Training Exercises to Help the Busiest Executives Reduce Stress & Lose Fat Fast:
1. The Prisoner Squat
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise stretches your chest and works your entire body, including your upper back (an area of stress for many busy dads).
To perform this exercise, start with your hands behind your head, and elbows back. Pull your shoulder blades together to exercise your upper back and relieve your stress. Start with your feet shoulder width apart, and push your hips back and squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Sit back as if you were sitting into a chair. Pause briefly at the bottom and stand back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times.
2. The Decline Pushup
This turbulence training body weight exercise is a harder variation of the regular pushup. To effectively perform this exercise, place your feet on a bench, chair, or step, so your feet are at least 6 inches off the ground. Start with your hands just wider than shoulder width apart. Brace your abs, and bend your arms to lower your chest to the floor. Stop one inch above the ground and press back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times. Feel the burn and see how ready you are for the busy day or night ahead of you.
3. Split Squats
Follow the pushup with a set of split squats. To complete this turbulence training bodyweight exercise, step one leg forward. Move your other leg back so it looks like you are making a slightly larger than normal step. Do this close to a wall so you can use your hands for balance if necessary.
Now, balance on your front foot and on the ball of your back foot. Your back heel will be off the ground for the entire exercise. Bend your back knee. Start the movement by dropping your hips straight down until your back knee is two inches above the ground. Press through your front leg to stand back up. Do eight repetitions for one leg and then switch sides and repeat.
4. Mountain Climbers
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise works your abs, your chest, and your legs. Get into the pushup position. Brace your abs. Now lift one foot and bring your knee to your chest. Touch the foot down, and then return it to the start position. Alternate sides and complete ten repetitions for each side.
5. Stick Ups
To finish the circuit, you will do a turbulence training bodyweight exercise called "Stick-ups". Stand with your feet six inches from the wall. Now place your back, butt and head flat against the wall. Put your arms overhead as if someone told you to "Stick-em up!"
Keep your hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders against the wall. Now slowly slide your arms down the wall and tuck your elbows into your sides. Again, keep your arms and back against the wall. No cheating! Do this exercise twelve times.
Do these five exercises in a circuit, without resting between exercises. When you've completed the circuit once, rest one or two minutes and repeat the circuit two more times. You'll feel great, boost your metabolism, and sculpt your body without spending a penny.
About The Author
Creator of the Revolutionary Turbulence Training System, Craig Ballantyne has helped millions of busy dads worldwide lose fat while gaining muscle at the same time with just 3 short but intense workouts a week. For a FREE, Immediate Controversial Fat Loss Report and FREE Turbulence Training Newsletter containing free tips to help you maximize metabolism, build muscle and gain workout success go to http://www.turbulencetraining.com
by: Craig Ballantyne
Gone are the days when you could spend an hour in the weight room and another 30 minutes doing cardio. With kids, there's just no time to even drive to the gym, let alone workout for more than 20 minutes. But by using the most convenient exercise equipment available – your own bodyweight – you can burn belly fat fast. And you can get your muscle definition back with simple bodyweight exercises.
So, you can forget the fancy machines, expensive gym memberships, or sharing equipment with sweaty strangers. You can forget about not spending enough time with your wife or kids. You can do this workout when you wake up or before you go to sleep. You can do this bodyweight training circuit at home before or after work. You can even close your office door and do this entire workout while everyone else is out for lunch.
5 Bodyweight Training Exercises to Help the Busiest Executives Reduce Stress & Lose Fat Fast:
1. The Prisoner Squat
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise stretches your chest and works your entire body, including your upper back (an area of stress for many busy dads).
To perform this exercise, start with your hands behind your head, and elbows back. Pull your shoulder blades together to exercise your upper back and relieve your stress. Start with your feet shoulder width apart, and push your hips back and squat until your thighs are parallel to the floor. Sit back as if you were sitting into a chair. Pause briefly at the bottom and stand back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times.
2. The Decline Pushup
This turbulence training body weight exercise is a harder variation of the regular pushup. To effectively perform this exercise, place your feet on a bench, chair, or step, so your feet are at least 6 inches off the ground. Start with your hands just wider than shoulder width apart. Brace your abs, and bend your arms to lower your chest to the floor. Stop one inch above the ground and press back up to the start position. Do this fifteen times. Feel the burn and see how ready you are for the busy day or night ahead of you.
3. Split Squats
Follow the pushup with a set of split squats. To complete this turbulence training bodyweight exercise, step one leg forward. Move your other leg back so it looks like you are making a slightly larger than normal step. Do this close to a wall so you can use your hands for balance if necessary.
Now, balance on your front foot and on the ball of your back foot. Your back heel will be off the ground for the entire exercise. Bend your back knee. Start the movement by dropping your hips straight down until your back knee is two inches above the ground. Press through your front leg to stand back up. Do eight repetitions for one leg and then switch sides and repeat.
4. Mountain Climbers
This turbulence training bodyweight exercise works your abs, your chest, and your legs. Get into the pushup position. Brace your abs. Now lift one foot and bring your knee to your chest. Touch the foot down, and then return it to the start position. Alternate sides and complete ten repetitions for each side.
5. Stick Ups
To finish the circuit, you will do a turbulence training bodyweight exercise called "Stick-ups". Stand with your feet six inches from the wall. Now place your back, butt and head flat against the wall. Put your arms overhead as if someone told you to "Stick-em up!"
Keep your hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders against the wall. Now slowly slide your arms down the wall and tuck your elbows into your sides. Again, keep your arms and back against the wall. No cheating! Do this exercise twelve times.
Do these five exercises in a circuit, without resting between exercises. When you've completed the circuit once, rest one or two minutes and repeat the circuit two more times. You'll feel great, boost your metabolism, and sculpt your body without spending a penny.
About The Author
Creator of the Revolutionary Turbulence Training System, Craig Ballantyne has helped millions of busy dads worldwide lose fat while gaining muscle at the same time with just 3 short but intense workouts a week. For a FREE, Immediate Controversial Fat Loss Report and FREE Turbulence Training Newsletter containing free tips to help you maximize metabolism, build muscle and gain workout success go to http://www.turbulencetraining.com
Rapid Weight Loss Tips -- Stubborn Belly Fat "Busters"...
Rapid Weight Loss Tips -- Stubborn Belly Fat "Busters"... No Crunches Required
by: Sterling Winterhalter
Are you tired of carrying that extra weight around your middle? Well, here are some tips that can help you quickly lose weight and inches off that potbelly. That's right, there may be a way for you to have a flatter stomach without doing those dreaded crunches. Here are some things that can positively impact your midriff , helping you lose pounds and inches without even breaking a sweat.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #1
Increase your protein and decrease your carbohydrates. Increasing the amount of lean protein you eat and reducing carbs can deliver a one-two punch right to the belly! You see, carbohydrate tend to increase your insulin level, which can slow down your metabolism. Since the body can only metabolize just so much carbohydrates at once, the rest is converted to sugar and then turned into body fat.
Of course, increasing your protein doesn't mean overeating. Just have 3-4 oz of lean protein with every meal… yes, even breakfast… and eat the protein first. This kicks your metabolism up a few notches as your body must work harder and expend more energy to digest protein. Throw in an extra helping of vegetables to add more fiber and moisture to your digestive process, and that should keep things moving along nicely. This is the first step to quick weight loss around your belly.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #2
Reduce your alcohol consumption. I know, for some of you this may be asking a lot, but it can make a huge difference to your waistline. While alcohol provides no nutrients whatsoever, each gram of alcohol contains 7 calories. And 100% of the calories you consume through alcohol is stored as fat! That means every alcoholic beverage you consume-- whether it's a few drinks per day or a few drinks per week-- is converted to fat, usually around the belly.
Now, you don't have to give up all libations in order to bust your belly fat, but cutting back to just one or two drinks a couple of times a week will pay huge dividends to your belly fat busting account.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #3
When it comes to junk-food… pick two and you're through! To bust your belly fat, you must become the master of your junk food domain! That means pick one salty junk food item, and one sweet junk food item to keep in your house. The rest of that junk food will simply have to go. Then give yourself only one meal per week during which you will eat a small amount of your chosen salty snack food, and one meal per week for your sweet snack food.
Here's an example. Once a week for dinner I give myself 7-large, restaurant style, plain nacho chips along with fat-free refried beans, 1oz of reduced-fat, grated cheddar cheese, 4oz of boneless, skinless chicken breast strips seasoned with packaged taco seasoning, some shredded lettuce, and all the Salsa I can eat. Add to that, colorful napkins and Celia Cruz on the CD player… and my wife and I enjoy a weekly, guilt-free, Latin Fiesta!
I have my fatty, snack-food chips every week, yet it doesn't add an inch to my waistline. Why? Well, for one thing, I set the amount of this snack-food to a moderate level. In this case, 7-chips, which contains 140 calories and 7 grams of fat. Plus, I incorporated this snack-food into a fun and tasty high-protein meal. The fat-free, refried beans are protein, and so are the reduced-fat cheese and chicken. The shredded lettuce and salsa (tomatoes) are high-grade catabolic foods -- foods that burn up more calories to digest, than they actually supply when eaten.
My weekly sweet snack is a large pancake and syrup on Saturday mornings. I have it along with 3 strips of turkey bacon and a scrambled egg. Of course, it could be anything sweet that you enjoy. A slice of apple pie a la mode, a candy bar… you name it. But again, eat it only once a week with a specific meal, and in moderation. Have your sweet snack as dessert at the end of a high protein meal that includes high-grade catabolic vegetables such as Broccoli, carrots, spinach, sweet potato, zucchini, or tomatoes. Since your metabolism increases 30% above it's resting level to burn protein… and the catabolic foods burn up their own calories as well as some of the calories from any other food you eat along with it… there's a good chance most of the calories from your moderate junk-food snack will be burned while your body is digesting the protein & catabolic foods that make up the bulk of your meal. Having a junk-food snack only two times per week with a specific meal, will play a major role in busting your belly fat and trimming inches from your waistline.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #4
Exercise is another way to bust belly fat… but that doesn't mean you have to do those dreaded crunches or go work out at the gym. Personally, I dislike structured exercise with a passion. And I seriously considered omitting exercise from this article altogether.
Although I am going to mention exercise, this is all I'm going to say about it. If you like structured exercise such as walking on a treadmill, going to an aerobics class, etc., then go for it. A half hour to 45 minutes, three times a week will certainly help bust your belly fat.
However, if that kind of exercise is unpalatable to you, then do what I do. I give myself a couple of projects to do around the house every week. Clean out the garage, hand-wash the car, sweep and hose the patio, do some work in the yard, etc… any activity that will keep you moving, reaching, bending, pulling, and contracting your muscles for 30-45 minutes is EXERCISE! The added benefit is instead of just having a sweaty body and some burned calories to show for it… you'll also have a clean patio, a shiny car, a beautiful garden, and a neatly organized closet to boot. :o)
The point I'm making is, housework counts, yard work counts, garage & closet clean up work counts as EXERCISE as far as your body is concerned. Just schedule 1-2 of these kinds of physical projects every week shortly after eating a meal rich in catabolic/fat burning foods, and your results could far out-strip that of the poor schmoe working out down at the gym. You see, any physical exercise you engage in after eating catabolic foods will continue boosting your metabolism and burning calories at a faster rate during, and for several hours AFTER exercising.
Rest assured, the exercise you engage in doing physical projects will burn lots of extra calories and bust more belly fat than you can shake a stick at. Of course, your aerobics instructor down at the gym may not give you credit for it, but your metabolism will certainly add it to your balance sheet by burning more calories, losing more weight, and firming & toning your muscles.
About The Author
Sterling Winterhalter is a former health educator and healthcare writer. He has written educational booklets on numerous health issues including weight loss, nutrition, diabetes, and coronary artery disease. To download a FREE copy of his new book "The 30-Day Success Diet" go to: http://www.freeweightlosshelp.reallyyoucan.com.
by: Sterling Winterhalter
Are you tired of carrying that extra weight around your middle? Well, here are some tips that can help you quickly lose weight and inches off that potbelly. That's right, there may be a way for you to have a flatter stomach without doing those dreaded crunches. Here are some things that can positively impact your midriff , helping you lose pounds and inches without even breaking a sweat.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #1
Increase your protein and decrease your carbohydrates. Increasing the amount of lean protein you eat and reducing carbs can deliver a one-two punch right to the belly! You see, carbohydrate tend to increase your insulin level, which can slow down your metabolism. Since the body can only metabolize just so much carbohydrates at once, the rest is converted to sugar and then turned into body fat.
Of course, increasing your protein doesn't mean overeating. Just have 3-4 oz of lean protein with every meal… yes, even breakfast… and eat the protein first. This kicks your metabolism up a few notches as your body must work harder and expend more energy to digest protein. Throw in an extra helping of vegetables to add more fiber and moisture to your digestive process, and that should keep things moving along nicely. This is the first step to quick weight loss around your belly.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #2
Reduce your alcohol consumption. I know, for some of you this may be asking a lot, but it can make a huge difference to your waistline. While alcohol provides no nutrients whatsoever, each gram of alcohol contains 7 calories. And 100% of the calories you consume through alcohol is stored as fat! That means every alcoholic beverage you consume-- whether it's a few drinks per day or a few drinks per week-- is converted to fat, usually around the belly.
Now, you don't have to give up all libations in order to bust your belly fat, but cutting back to just one or two drinks a couple of times a week will pay huge dividends to your belly fat busting account.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #3
When it comes to junk-food… pick two and you're through! To bust your belly fat, you must become the master of your junk food domain! That means pick one salty junk food item, and one sweet junk food item to keep in your house. The rest of that junk food will simply have to go. Then give yourself only one meal per week during which you will eat a small amount of your chosen salty snack food, and one meal per week for your sweet snack food.
Here's an example. Once a week for dinner I give myself 7-large, restaurant style, plain nacho chips along with fat-free refried beans, 1oz of reduced-fat, grated cheddar cheese, 4oz of boneless, skinless chicken breast strips seasoned with packaged taco seasoning, some shredded lettuce, and all the Salsa I can eat. Add to that, colorful napkins and Celia Cruz on the CD player… and my wife and I enjoy a weekly, guilt-free, Latin Fiesta!
I have my fatty, snack-food chips every week, yet it doesn't add an inch to my waistline. Why? Well, for one thing, I set the amount of this snack-food to a moderate level. In this case, 7-chips, which contains 140 calories and 7 grams of fat. Plus, I incorporated this snack-food into a fun and tasty high-protein meal. The fat-free, refried beans are protein, and so are the reduced-fat cheese and chicken. The shredded lettuce and salsa (tomatoes) are high-grade catabolic foods -- foods that burn up more calories to digest, than they actually supply when eaten.
My weekly sweet snack is a large pancake and syrup on Saturday mornings. I have it along with 3 strips of turkey bacon and a scrambled egg. Of course, it could be anything sweet that you enjoy. A slice of apple pie a la mode, a candy bar… you name it. But again, eat it only once a week with a specific meal, and in moderation. Have your sweet snack as dessert at the end of a high protein meal that includes high-grade catabolic vegetables such as Broccoli, carrots, spinach, sweet potato, zucchini, or tomatoes. Since your metabolism increases 30% above it's resting level to burn protein… and the catabolic foods burn up their own calories as well as some of the calories from any other food you eat along with it… there's a good chance most of the calories from your moderate junk-food snack will be burned while your body is digesting the protein & catabolic foods that make up the bulk of your meal. Having a junk-food snack only two times per week with a specific meal, will play a major role in busting your belly fat and trimming inches from your waistline.
Belly Fat Busting Tip #4
Exercise is another way to bust belly fat… but that doesn't mean you have to do those dreaded crunches or go work out at the gym. Personally, I dislike structured exercise with a passion. And I seriously considered omitting exercise from this article altogether.
Although I am going to mention exercise, this is all I'm going to say about it. If you like structured exercise such as walking on a treadmill, going to an aerobics class, etc., then go for it. A half hour to 45 minutes, three times a week will certainly help bust your belly fat.
However, if that kind of exercise is unpalatable to you, then do what I do. I give myself a couple of projects to do around the house every week. Clean out the garage, hand-wash the car, sweep and hose the patio, do some work in the yard, etc… any activity that will keep you moving, reaching, bending, pulling, and contracting your muscles for 30-45 minutes is EXERCISE! The added benefit is instead of just having a sweaty body and some burned calories to show for it… you'll also have a clean patio, a shiny car, a beautiful garden, and a neatly organized closet to boot. :o)
The point I'm making is, housework counts, yard work counts, garage & closet clean up work counts as EXERCISE as far as your body is concerned. Just schedule 1-2 of these kinds of physical projects every week shortly after eating a meal rich in catabolic/fat burning foods, and your results could far out-strip that of the poor schmoe working out down at the gym. You see, any physical exercise you engage in after eating catabolic foods will continue boosting your metabolism and burning calories at a faster rate during, and for several hours AFTER exercising.
Rest assured, the exercise you engage in doing physical projects will burn lots of extra calories and bust more belly fat than you can shake a stick at. Of course, your aerobics instructor down at the gym may not give you credit for it, but your metabolism will certainly add it to your balance sheet by burning more calories, losing more weight, and firming & toning your muscles.
About The Author
Sterling Winterhalter is a former health educator and healthcare writer. He has written educational booklets on numerous health issues including weight loss, nutrition, diabetes, and coronary artery disease. To download a FREE copy of his new book "The 30-Day Success Diet" go to: http://www.freeweightlosshelp.reallyyoucan.com.
Sleep - Luxury or Necessity
Sleep - Luxury or Necessity
by: Christine Darrington
Many people feel that sleep is a waste of time. They have busy lives with work and families so they try to squeeze every minute out of every day. They finally surrender to sleep when they are absolutely exhausted. The problem they are not recognizing is that when you are sleep deprived, you are forcing your body to work at a disadvantage. An exhausted body cannot work to it’s full potential, mentally or physically.
Sleep studies around the world have shown that the lack of sleep affects your physical, mental, and emotional life. A study at the University of Wisconsin showed that sleep deprivation can cause a number of health problems such as depression, heart problems, and alertness while performing important tasks such as driving.. Another sleep test reported by the magazine “Science News” reported that when 48 volunteers were deprived of sleep for a period of two weeks, it reduced their mental abilities. This included alertness, reaction time, and memory.
Sleep is natures way of allowing our bodies to rejuvenate. There are two stages of sleep. REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM. During REM sleep the body is able to experience complete muscle relaxation, this allows us to wake up feeling physically refreshed. REM sleep is also the time when our blood pressure and heart rate lower, and the time when our brain secretes a hormone called cortisol. Without cortisol our bodies will not have the sufficient means to combat circulatory diseases. This REM sleep is also when the circulatory system rests and this helps to avoid cardiovascular disease.
Sleep is also the time when our bodies combat and metabolize free radicals. Free radicals are the molecules that are said to increase the aging process and even cause cancer. Sleep deprivation is also linked to the lack of production of white blood cells. We all know that we need these to fight infection.
Sleep can seriously affect our appetite. Our brain interprets lack of sleep as hunger. While we sleep our bodies secrete a hormone called leptin. Leptin is what tells our brain that we are full when we eat. When we are awake for longer periods of time our bodies do not have the opportunity to produce leptin. This, in turn, causes us to feel hungry and crave carbohydrates. Thus, sleep deprivation can easily lead to another health problem, obesity.
Sleep deprivation is not just a problem here in the United States. In Portugal three out of four people report that they go to bed after midnight and still get up early and go to work. The Japanese seem to sleep the least, over forty percent report that they get six hours of sleep or less. In fact, a report on sleep deprivation from Japan reported that tests done on those who only got four to five and a half hours of sleep each night did poorly on tests that measured memory, clear thinking, and the ability to pay attention. The Australians, on the other hand, are in bed around ten o’clock and get around nine hours of sleep each night. I think they have the right idea.
Copyright 2006 Christine Darrington
About The Author
Christine Darrington - Researching nutritional solutions that boost the immune system for optimum health. More nutritional articles found at: http://effective-immune-system-boosters.com.
by: Christine Darrington
Many people feel that sleep is a waste of time. They have busy lives with work and families so they try to squeeze every minute out of every day. They finally surrender to sleep when they are absolutely exhausted. The problem they are not recognizing is that when you are sleep deprived, you are forcing your body to work at a disadvantage. An exhausted body cannot work to it’s full potential, mentally or physically.
Sleep studies around the world have shown that the lack of sleep affects your physical, mental, and emotional life. A study at the University of Wisconsin showed that sleep deprivation can cause a number of health problems such as depression, heart problems, and alertness while performing important tasks such as driving.. Another sleep test reported by the magazine “Science News” reported that when 48 volunteers were deprived of sleep for a period of two weeks, it reduced their mental abilities. This included alertness, reaction time, and memory.
Sleep is natures way of allowing our bodies to rejuvenate. There are two stages of sleep. REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM. During REM sleep the body is able to experience complete muscle relaxation, this allows us to wake up feeling physically refreshed. REM sleep is also the time when our blood pressure and heart rate lower, and the time when our brain secretes a hormone called cortisol. Without cortisol our bodies will not have the sufficient means to combat circulatory diseases. This REM sleep is also when the circulatory system rests and this helps to avoid cardiovascular disease.
Sleep is also the time when our bodies combat and metabolize free radicals. Free radicals are the molecules that are said to increase the aging process and even cause cancer. Sleep deprivation is also linked to the lack of production of white blood cells. We all know that we need these to fight infection.
Sleep can seriously affect our appetite. Our brain interprets lack of sleep as hunger. While we sleep our bodies secrete a hormone called leptin. Leptin is what tells our brain that we are full when we eat. When we are awake for longer periods of time our bodies do not have the opportunity to produce leptin. This, in turn, causes us to feel hungry and crave carbohydrates. Thus, sleep deprivation can easily lead to another health problem, obesity.
Sleep deprivation is not just a problem here in the United States. In Portugal three out of four people report that they go to bed after midnight and still get up early and go to work. The Japanese seem to sleep the least, over forty percent report that they get six hours of sleep or less. In fact, a report on sleep deprivation from Japan reported that tests done on those who only got four to five and a half hours of sleep each night did poorly on tests that measured memory, clear thinking, and the ability to pay attention. The Australians, on the other hand, are in bed around ten o’clock and get around nine hours of sleep each night. I think they have the right idea.
Copyright 2006 Christine Darrington
About The Author
Christine Darrington - Researching nutritional solutions that boost the immune system for optimum health. More nutritional articles found at: http://effective-immune-system-boosters.com.
Exercise to Lose Belly Fat - 2 Ways You Must Change Your Workout
Exercise to Lose Belly Fat - 2 Ways You Must Change Your Workout
by: Tom Gifford
Do you have trouble trying to lose belly fat with exercise? If so, you are probably making some very simple mistakes. Learn how to fix them once and for all.
If you answered yes, then you are certainly not alone! Chances are that you are making some very common mistakes when you exercise. These mistakes are stopping you from being able to effectively lose belly fat with exercise!
This article will explore 2 very important aspects of your exercise routine that you must have correct if you want to finally start to lose tummy fat.
1. Circuit Training to Jump Start Your Metabolism
Many people simply do not know that you can lose belly fat with exercise by strength training in a circuit of different exercises.
It is interesting. The more muscle you work when you exercise, the higher the number of calories you will use during the actual working and in the hours after you are finished. To many, this is counterintuitive.
Many people think that strength training is a form of exercise that adds massive amounts of muscle, not helping to lose stomach fat.
I really want to help you see how weight training will help you increase strength, raise your resting metabolism, shape your muscles, get past frustrating plateau's, and last but not least, help you lose belly fat!
I do want to warn you though, do not make the common mistake of just doing "3 sets of 15 reps" on the machines in the gym. Machines can sometimes be a decent way to begin, but they are simply not the most optimal way to help you lose belly fat.
A more ideal alternative is to use circuit training exercise to help you get more work done in less time. Try using your own bodyweight and some functional equipment instead of the machines and you will see what a difference it makes!
Here is an example circuit training routine:
First, do a 5-10 minute warm-up
1. Inverted pushups ' 12 reps
2. Bent over dumbbell row ' 12 reps
3. Bodyweight squats ' 12 reps
4. Stability ball leg curls ' 12 reps
5. Side planks ' 5-10 seconds per side
6. Standing overhead DB press ' 12 reps
7. Stability ball crunches ' 15 reps
Try going from the beginning to the end with 0-30 seconds of rest in between each exercise. If you do this entire circuit 2-3 times, you will get a great workout that will help you lose belly fat and gain muscle in about 20-30 minutes.
This is just a sample exercise routine that illustrates that basic structure of a fat loss circuit training workout With this circuit training workout, you will exercise to lose belly fat as well as get stronger!
Always try to rest at least one day in between each workout to give your body a chance to recover. Remember that your muscles build up and get stronger while you are at rest after an exercise session.
2. Interval Training as Opposed to the "Average Cardio Routine"
If you have never tried interval training instead of the average long, boring, and arduous cardio routine, you are totally missing out!
The truth is, going slow on a cardio machine for 30-60 minutes like most people is not an efficient way to exercise to lose belly fat. All you are doing is training your body to adapt to the same workout, which in turn will have you burning fewer calories with each exposure.
Interval training help you lose stomach fat because it has a huge impact on your resting metabolism. This means you burn calories after the session is over.
One research study found that interval training burned calories for up to 36 hours after the exercise session was over. The same study found that people who used interval training burned more calories than those who did the normal slow cardio routine.
Here is the bottom line: if you want to exercise to lose body fat in the quickest and most efficient way possible, then interval training is a must.
With interval training, you merely alternate between high and low intensities instead of going at the same speed the whole time. If you use interval training directly after a circuit training workout, you will get a lot more work done in less time.
You will crank up your metabolism for several hours after you are done working out. This will help you burn many more calories that if you did the standard long, slow, boring cardio routine.
Now that you see a basic structure for your workouts that will help you finally lose belly fat with exercise, it is time to go give it a try. Losing fat does not have to be arduous and slow.
With the right exercise routine combined with the right diet, you should lose 1-3 lbs of belly fat each week, depending on what condition you are in when you begin. Good luck!
About The Author
Tom Gifford
Having trouble losing weight? My name is Tom Gifford and I am a Personal Trainer. I have some excellent news for you. Come check out my website at http://www.TheGreatCardioMyth.com and receive two chapters of my brand new book at no cost! You will find lots of cool tips and tricks you can use immediately.
by: Tom Gifford
Do you have trouble trying to lose belly fat with exercise? If so, you are probably making some very simple mistakes. Learn how to fix them once and for all.
If you answered yes, then you are certainly not alone! Chances are that you are making some very common mistakes when you exercise. These mistakes are stopping you from being able to effectively lose belly fat with exercise!
This article will explore 2 very important aspects of your exercise routine that you must have correct if you want to finally start to lose tummy fat.
1. Circuit Training to Jump Start Your Metabolism
Many people simply do not know that you can lose belly fat with exercise by strength training in a circuit of different exercises.
It is interesting. The more muscle you work when you exercise, the higher the number of calories you will use during the actual working and in the hours after you are finished. To many, this is counterintuitive.
Many people think that strength training is a form of exercise that adds massive amounts of muscle, not helping to lose stomach fat.
I really want to help you see how weight training will help you increase strength, raise your resting metabolism, shape your muscles, get past frustrating plateau's, and last but not least, help you lose belly fat!
I do want to warn you though, do not make the common mistake of just doing "3 sets of 15 reps" on the machines in the gym. Machines can sometimes be a decent way to begin, but they are simply not the most optimal way to help you lose belly fat.
A more ideal alternative is to use circuit training exercise to help you get more work done in less time. Try using your own bodyweight and some functional equipment instead of the machines and you will see what a difference it makes!
Here is an example circuit training routine:
First, do a 5-10 minute warm-up
1. Inverted pushups ' 12 reps
2. Bent over dumbbell row ' 12 reps
3. Bodyweight squats ' 12 reps
4. Stability ball leg curls ' 12 reps
5. Side planks ' 5-10 seconds per side
6. Standing overhead DB press ' 12 reps
7. Stability ball crunches ' 15 reps
Try going from the beginning to the end with 0-30 seconds of rest in between each exercise. If you do this entire circuit 2-3 times, you will get a great workout that will help you lose belly fat and gain muscle in about 20-30 minutes.
This is just a sample exercise routine that illustrates that basic structure of a fat loss circuit training workout With this circuit training workout, you will exercise to lose belly fat as well as get stronger!
Always try to rest at least one day in between each workout to give your body a chance to recover. Remember that your muscles build up and get stronger while you are at rest after an exercise session.
2. Interval Training as Opposed to the "Average Cardio Routine"
If you have never tried interval training instead of the average long, boring, and arduous cardio routine, you are totally missing out!
The truth is, going slow on a cardio machine for 30-60 minutes like most people is not an efficient way to exercise to lose belly fat. All you are doing is training your body to adapt to the same workout, which in turn will have you burning fewer calories with each exposure.
Interval training help you lose stomach fat because it has a huge impact on your resting metabolism. This means you burn calories after the session is over.
One research study found that interval training burned calories for up to 36 hours after the exercise session was over. The same study found that people who used interval training burned more calories than those who did the normal slow cardio routine.
Here is the bottom line: if you want to exercise to lose body fat in the quickest and most efficient way possible, then interval training is a must.
With interval training, you merely alternate between high and low intensities instead of going at the same speed the whole time. If you use interval training directly after a circuit training workout, you will get a lot more work done in less time.
You will crank up your metabolism for several hours after you are done working out. This will help you burn many more calories that if you did the standard long, slow, boring cardio routine.
Now that you see a basic structure for your workouts that will help you finally lose belly fat with exercise, it is time to go give it a try. Losing fat does not have to be arduous and slow.
With the right exercise routine combined with the right diet, you should lose 1-3 lbs of belly fat each week, depending on what condition you are in when you begin. Good luck!
About The Author
Tom Gifford
Having trouble losing weight? My name is Tom Gifford and I am a Personal Trainer. I have some excellent news for you. Come check out my website at http://www.TheGreatCardioMyth.com and receive two chapters of my brand new book at no cost! You will find lots of cool tips and tricks you can use immediately.
Red Rice Yeast
Red Rice Yeast
Overview
Red rice yeast (red yeast rice) has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for centuries to help blood circulation and ease stomach problems. It is made by growing red yeast on white rice, and then powdering it.
In the 1970s it was discovered that red rice yeast lowers high levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood. In 1998, the FDA banned the sale of a commercial dietary supplement called Cholestin which contained red rice yeast, claiming that the chemical composition of red rice yeast is nearly identical to that of the prescription drug Lovastatin, a statin which is often prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. Products containing red rice yeast may not be sold in the United States, but are still widely available throughout the world, and can often be purchased on the internet.
What Red Rice Yeast Does:
Red rice yeast has been proven to lower levels of bad cholesterol in the blood as effectively as most pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. In addition, red rice yeast has been proven in a number of research studies to help lower high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Like cholesterol, trigycerides can affect blood circulation by clogging blood vessels in the body. Red rice yeast (or, as it’s more often called – red yeast rice) contains a substance called monacolin K which inhibits the production of cholesterol in the liver. This is exactly the same action that prescription drugs like lovastatin (Mexacor) and Lipitor have on the production of cholesterol.
Interestingly, the concentration of monacolin K in red rice yeast is considerably lower than the amount of lovastatin usually prescribed as a daily dose to lower cholesterol – but it still reduced LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 17% in just 8 weeks in a study at UCLA. This has led some doctors and researchers to speculate that other chemicals in red rice yeast (specifically sterols) may boost the effect of monacolin K or actively reduce cholesterol themselves.
Health Benefits of Red Rice Yeast:
A number of well-constructed and well-documented studies confirm that red rice yeast substantially lowers the amount of total cholesterol and ‘bad’ cholesterol in the blood without affecting the HDL, ‘good’ cholesterol.
At UCLA, researchers tested the effects of Cholestin, a red rice yeast product that contained red rice yeast produced by a proprietary method that increased the amount of monacolin K to near pharmaceutical levels. The results were unmistakable. Those in the study that took Cholestin reduced LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 21% over the 12 weeks of the study, and reduced triglycerides by . In contrast, those who took a placebo averaged a reduction of 1%. This is the most well-documented study and the one most often cited when referring to red rice yeast, but it’s important to note that the product used in this study contains higher levels of monacolin K than most preparations of red yeast rice though considerably less than the amount of active ingredients in most prescription statin drugs.
Possible Side Effects of Red Rice Yeast
Because the active components in red rice yeast affect the body in ways that are identical to those of some statin drugs, most doctors advise patients to treat red rice yeast with the same caution. The side effects of red rice yeast are rare and generally mild, but lovastatin has raised some concerns about compromised liver function. In addition, doctors and nutritionists advise that those who are taking statin drugs or other drugs to lower cholesterol levels should discuss the possibility of using red rice yeast as an alternative to conventional drug therapy rather than in addition to it.
Summary and Conclusion
In 2001, the FDA decided that Cholestin, with its proprietary formula of red rice yeast, contained a substance identical to lovastatin, a drug that is regulated by the FDA. A court upheld the FDA ruling, and Cholestin was removed from open store shelves. The manufacturer has introduced a reformulated Cholestin without red rice yeast. Following in the steps of NuSkin, the manufacturers of Cholestin, other nutraceutical companies also pulled products containing red rice yeast from the U.S. market. It is still, however, possible to find red yeast rice on the Internet.
Overview
Red rice yeast (red yeast rice) has been used in Chinese traditional medicine for centuries to help blood circulation and ease stomach problems. It is made by growing red yeast on white rice, and then powdering it.
In the 1970s it was discovered that red rice yeast lowers high levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood. In 1998, the FDA banned the sale of a commercial dietary supplement called Cholestin which contained red rice yeast, claiming that the chemical composition of red rice yeast is nearly identical to that of the prescription drug Lovastatin, a statin which is often prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. Products containing red rice yeast may not be sold in the United States, but are still widely available throughout the world, and can often be purchased on the internet.
What Red Rice Yeast Does:
Red rice yeast has been proven to lower levels of bad cholesterol in the blood as effectively as most pharmaceutical drugs that are prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels. In addition, red rice yeast has been proven in a number of research studies to help lower high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Like cholesterol, trigycerides can affect blood circulation by clogging blood vessels in the body. Red rice yeast (or, as it’s more often called – red yeast rice) contains a substance called monacolin K which inhibits the production of cholesterol in the liver. This is exactly the same action that prescription drugs like lovastatin (Mexacor) and Lipitor have on the production of cholesterol.
Interestingly, the concentration of monacolin K in red rice yeast is considerably lower than the amount of lovastatin usually prescribed as a daily dose to lower cholesterol – but it still reduced LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 17% in just 8 weeks in a study at UCLA. This has led some doctors and researchers to speculate that other chemicals in red rice yeast (specifically sterols) may boost the effect of monacolin K or actively reduce cholesterol themselves.
Health Benefits of Red Rice Yeast:
A number of well-constructed and well-documented studies confirm that red rice yeast substantially lowers the amount of total cholesterol and ‘bad’ cholesterol in the blood without affecting the HDL, ‘good’ cholesterol.
At UCLA, researchers tested the effects of Cholestin, a red rice yeast product that contained red rice yeast produced by a proprietary method that increased the amount of monacolin K to near pharmaceutical levels. The results were unmistakable. Those in the study that took Cholestin reduced LDL cholesterol levels by as much as 21% over the 12 weeks of the study, and reduced triglycerides by . In contrast, those who took a placebo averaged a reduction of 1%. This is the most well-documented study and the one most often cited when referring to red rice yeast, but it’s important to note that the product used in this study contains higher levels of monacolin K than most preparations of red yeast rice though considerably less than the amount of active ingredients in most prescription statin drugs.
Possible Side Effects of Red Rice Yeast
Because the active components in red rice yeast affect the body in ways that are identical to those of some statin drugs, most doctors advise patients to treat red rice yeast with the same caution. The side effects of red rice yeast are rare and generally mild, but lovastatin has raised some concerns about compromised liver function. In addition, doctors and nutritionists advise that those who are taking statin drugs or other drugs to lower cholesterol levels should discuss the possibility of using red rice yeast as an alternative to conventional drug therapy rather than in addition to it.
Summary and Conclusion
In 2001, the FDA decided that Cholestin, with its proprietary formula of red rice yeast, contained a substance identical to lovastatin, a drug that is regulated by the FDA. A court upheld the FDA ruling, and Cholestin was removed from open store shelves. The manufacturer has introduced a reformulated Cholestin without red rice yeast. Following in the steps of NuSkin, the manufacturers of Cholestin, other nutraceutical companies also pulled products containing red rice yeast from the U.S. market. It is still, however, possible to find red yeast rice on the Internet.
HSI first told the full story behind GRAVIOLA
HSI first told the full story behind GRAVIOLA
ALMOST FIVE YEARS AGO...
NOW - YOU AND YOUR ONCOLOGIST
CAN FINALLY GET THE COMPLETE REPORT!
See the original research that proves
Graviola's 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy
with no adverse side effects
Just when you thought we covered everything there was to know about Graviola...now there's even more to prove that it's perhaps the world's ultimate cancer-fighter!
That's right. For the first time, we're able to offer you all the original research about this amazing cancer-buster from the Amazon in one comprehensive report.
Studies in the 'Graviola Technical Report' span four decades and three continents. As you'll see, in at least 20 laboratory tests since the 1970s, Graviola's been proven to:
Hunt down and kill cancer cells in the prostate, lung, breast, colon and pancreas
Leave healthy cells completely unharmed
Boost your immune system without causing nausea, hair loss, or weight loss.
This report is a 'must-have' for anyone battling cancer who is considering Graviola as a complement to their traditional course of treatment.
You'll read the complete details of one recent study conducted at Catholic University of South Korea. Scientists discovered that two chemicals extracted from Graviola seeds targeted and killed malignant breast and colon cells in a test tube.
Plus...you'll read the study that proved...
Graviola is 10,000 times stronger than chemo
In another study, published in the Journal of Natural Products, scientists proved that Graviola dramatically outperforms one of the most common chemotherapy drugs on the market. You'll have all the scientific evidence that showed one chemical in Graviola selectively kills colon cancer cells at "10,000 times the potency of Adriamycin."
The HSI e-Alert
Since last year, through strong word of mouth and the growing support of our members, we have added over 280,000 readers worldwide. Now you are invited to join people all over the world that receive news of urgent medical issues and life-saving cures.
Our promise is to keep you informed of the most recent breakthroughs and advancements in complementary and alternative medicine. For example, did you know...
The cure for arthritis could be hiding in your spice rack?
A natural cancer-killing compound was hidden for seven years by one of America's billion-dollar drug companies?
The biggest culprit in heart disease is NOT cholesterol and it can't be cured with statin drugs?
Make sure you are the first to know about new cures - and new threats to your health. Sign up now. It's absolutely free - and, should you wish, you can unsubscribe at any time.
Enter your e-mail address:
HSI Privacy Policy: We understand and respect how much you value your privacy. That is why we guarantee we will never sell your e-mail address.
Other promising and ongoing research at Purdue University is supported by a grant from the National Cancer Institute. Purdue researchers recently found that leaves from the Graviola tree kills cancer cells "among six human-cell lines" and are especially effective against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells.
In a separate study, Purdue researchers showed that extracts from the Graviola leaves are extremely effective in isolating and killing lung cancer cells.
In each of these studies, Graviola was shown to selectively target the enemy - leaving all healthy, normal cells untouched. By comparison, chemotherapy indiscriminately seeks and destroys all actively reproducing cells - even normal hair and stomach cells.
Share original research with your oncologist
Complete details from each of these scientific studies are now available in the 'Graviola Technical Report' published by Sage Press.
In this Technical Report, you'll receive the entire archive of published scientific research on Graviola, including:
Original scientific data with complete references and citations
Complete explanations of chemical and cytotoxic activities
Laboratory and clinical research conducted by the National Cancer Institute, Purdue University & Catholic University of Korea
Results of numerous laboratory tests in Japan & Taiwan
Lists on contradictions & known drug interactions
Recommended dosage information
Medicinal history of Graviola
Botanical description
Worldwide ethnobotanical uses
As you can see, this is an incredibly comprehensive report. It would probably take even the most experienced scientific researcher days to gather all this information into one report.
And it's no easy read, even for the knowledgeable HSI Member.
But it is a vital resource for both you and your doctor. Most doctors need this type of hard, scientific evidence before making a decision about a natural supplement when treating a disease as serious as cancer.
Review the hard evidence first
With this Technical Report in hand, you can go to your oncologist and review all the scientific data together. Only then can your doctor make a fully informed decision about Graviola.
Sage Press usually sells the Graviola Technical Report for $20, but you can get it for the HSI Members-Only price of $15.
It's only available in a PDF format, not print. So - you'll be e-mailed a web site link to view all the studies for yourself. You can then print out the report and share it with your doctor.
Don't delay. Arm yourself immediately with this vital and comprehensive cancer report that could save your life. Share it with your doctor. Give it to your friends.
ALMOST FIVE YEARS AGO...
NOW - YOU AND YOUR ONCOLOGIST
CAN FINALLY GET THE COMPLETE REPORT!
See the original research that proves
Graviola's 10,000 times stronger than chemotherapy
with no adverse side effects
Just when you thought we covered everything there was to know about Graviola...now there's even more to prove that it's perhaps the world's ultimate cancer-fighter!
That's right. For the first time, we're able to offer you all the original research about this amazing cancer-buster from the Amazon in one comprehensive report.
Studies in the 'Graviola Technical Report' span four decades and three continents. As you'll see, in at least 20 laboratory tests since the 1970s, Graviola's been proven to:
Hunt down and kill cancer cells in the prostate, lung, breast, colon and pancreas
Leave healthy cells completely unharmed
Boost your immune system without causing nausea, hair loss, or weight loss.
This report is a 'must-have' for anyone battling cancer who is considering Graviola as a complement to their traditional course of treatment.
You'll read the complete details of one recent study conducted at Catholic University of South Korea. Scientists discovered that two chemicals extracted from Graviola seeds targeted and killed malignant breast and colon cells in a test tube.
Plus...you'll read the study that proved...
Graviola is 10,000 times stronger than chemo
In another study, published in the Journal of Natural Products, scientists proved that Graviola dramatically outperforms one of the most common chemotherapy drugs on the market. You'll have all the scientific evidence that showed one chemical in Graviola selectively kills colon cancer cells at "10,000 times the potency of Adriamycin."
The HSI e-Alert
Since last year, through strong word of mouth and the growing support of our members, we have added over 280,000 readers worldwide. Now you are invited to join people all over the world that receive news of urgent medical issues and life-saving cures.
Our promise is to keep you informed of the most recent breakthroughs and advancements in complementary and alternative medicine. For example, did you know...
The cure for arthritis could be hiding in your spice rack?
A natural cancer-killing compound was hidden for seven years by one of America's billion-dollar drug companies?
The biggest culprit in heart disease is NOT cholesterol and it can't be cured with statin drugs?
Make sure you are the first to know about new cures - and new threats to your health. Sign up now. It's absolutely free - and, should you wish, you can unsubscribe at any time.
Enter your e-mail address:
HSI Privacy Policy: We understand and respect how much you value your privacy. That is why we guarantee we will never sell your e-mail address.
Other promising and ongoing research at Purdue University is supported by a grant from the National Cancer Institute. Purdue researchers recently found that leaves from the Graviola tree kills cancer cells "among six human-cell lines" and are especially effective against prostate and pancreatic cancer cells.
In a separate study, Purdue researchers showed that extracts from the Graviola leaves are extremely effective in isolating and killing lung cancer cells.
In each of these studies, Graviola was shown to selectively target the enemy - leaving all healthy, normal cells untouched. By comparison, chemotherapy indiscriminately seeks and destroys all actively reproducing cells - even normal hair and stomach cells.
Share original research with your oncologist
Complete details from each of these scientific studies are now available in the 'Graviola Technical Report' published by Sage Press.
In this Technical Report, you'll receive the entire archive of published scientific research on Graviola, including:
Original scientific data with complete references and citations
Complete explanations of chemical and cytotoxic activities
Laboratory and clinical research conducted by the National Cancer Institute, Purdue University & Catholic University of Korea
Results of numerous laboratory tests in Japan & Taiwan
Lists on contradictions & known drug interactions
Recommended dosage information
Medicinal history of Graviola
Botanical description
Worldwide ethnobotanical uses
As you can see, this is an incredibly comprehensive report. It would probably take even the most experienced scientific researcher days to gather all this information into one report.
And it's no easy read, even for the knowledgeable HSI Member.
But it is a vital resource for both you and your doctor. Most doctors need this type of hard, scientific evidence before making a decision about a natural supplement when treating a disease as serious as cancer.
Review the hard evidence first
With this Technical Report in hand, you can go to your oncologist and review all the scientific data together. Only then can your doctor make a fully informed decision about Graviola.
Sage Press usually sells the Graviola Technical Report for $20, but you can get it for the HSI Members-Only price of $15.
It's only available in a PDF format, not print. So - you'll be e-mailed a web site link to view all the studies for yourself. You can then print out the report and share it with your doctor.
Don't delay. Arm yourself immediately with this vital and comprehensive cancer report that could save your life. Share it with your doctor. Give it to your friends.
The Ten Health Supplements You Should Be Taking
The Ten Health Supplements You Should Be Taking
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of the top ten health supplements because it strengthens the immune system and helps relieve the effects of physical and mental stress on the body. Because 10-30% of adults over 30 may not absorb Vitamin B12 from food well, the University of Maryland Medical Center’s Complementary Medicine Program recommends daily health supplements containing vitamin B12 to all adults over the age of 50.
Green Tea Extract
The catechins in green tea extract, especially one known as ECGC (Epigallocatechin Gallate) protect your body against respiratory and digestive infections, short circuit the reproduction of cancerous cells, help lower high blood pressure, reduce the levels of LDL and total cholesterol in your blood, and – believe it or not – helps fight cavities. Green tea extract should definitely be an ingredient in any health supplements that you take regularly.
Vitamin D
While scientists say that ten minutes a day of full summer sun is enough for your body to manufacture all the Vitamin D that it needs, they also suggest that anyone living in the northern states should be taking health supplements with Vitamin D during the winter months in order to get enough Vitamin D for their body’s needs.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Health supplements containing alpha lipoic acid (ALA) may help your body control its use of insulin, helps protect against memory loss in aging and may be beneficial in treating Alzheimers’ disease and stroke victims, increases blood flow to the nerve endings and helps reduce tingling and other symptoms of neuropathy. The antioxidant properties of ALA are what make it so important as part of a daily regimen of health supplements.
Calcium
According to the National Institutes of Health, the average American gets less than half their needed calcium from his daily diet. Because our high protein diets and the high consumption of caffeine also deplete the body’s supply of calcium, the NIH recommends daily health supplements containing calcium for most American adults.
Saw Palmetto (for men)
Beta sitosterol, the active ingredient in saw palmetto, is one of the most effective treatments for the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, a prostate condition that affects over 60% of American men over 50. According to the Complementary Medicine Program at the University of Maryland Medical Center, the recommended dosage for treatment of the early stages of BPH is difficult to get in tea or tincture. They recommend daily health supplements containing 160 mg of saw palmetto extract standardized for 85% to 95% of fatty acids and sterols for best effects.
Black Cohosh (for women)
Black cohosh has been used for over 40 years to treat menstrual cramps, hot flashes, mood swings, irritability and sleep disturbances. Dozens of scientific studies over the years have proven the effectiveness of black cohosh in treating those symptoms. Even the American College of Gynecologists recognizes the value of using black cohosh to treat menopausal symptoms, though they suggest limiting treatment with black cohosh to six months or less. Health supplements containing black cohosh can help relieve the symptoms of painful menstruation and pre-menopause in women and greatly increase the enjoyment of daily their daily lives.
Vitamin C
Daily health supplements containing Vitamin C can help your body combat the effects of aging and boost the immune system to help you combat common illnesses. It seems to prevent cataracts (Nurses’ Health Study) and protect the eyes against macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss among older adults. Vitamin C, along with Vitamin E, may also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Coenzyme Q10 (CO Q10)
Since its discovery in 1957, CO Q10 (ubiquinone) has been widely studied. It’s a component in the mitochondria in every cell in your body, where it seems to function as an antioxidant. Among the benefits associated with taking health supplements containing CO Q10 are fewer and less severe migraines, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduced incidence of atherosclerosis, increased energy and heightened immune system.
Fish Oil (DHA and EPA)
The omega 3 essential fatty acids found in fish oil, DHA and EPA, are essential for your body to make new cells, particularly brain and nerve cells. Because of the low availability and contamination of natural sources of fish oil and omega 3 fatty acids, health supplements containing fish oil extracts, particularly DHA, are a vital source of these important nutrients.
While it is certainly possible to take each of these health supplements separately, most nutritional experts recommend choosing a multi-benefit health supplement. Our personal choice of all the daily health supplements we’ve researched and tried is Total Balance, a formulation created by the R&D department at Xtend-Life Natural Products in New Zealand. We particularly like the fact that Xtend-Life is committed to the concept of synergy, and carefully formulates all of its nutritional and health supplements to work together and support each other.
Total Balance, Xtend-Life’s complete daily health supplement, is made in three different formulations to take into account the varying needs of men and women at different stages in their lives. The Unisex formulation contains all the essential nutrients recommended for your body’s daily needs in a formula that is carefully balanced to make full use of each of them. Total Balance Plus for Men adds the most potent herbal extracts, minerals and phytonutrients to promote prostate health in adult men. Total Balance Plus for Women is created specifically to address the needs of women with extra calcium, vitamins and herbal extracts that relieve and prevent cramping, hot flashes, mood swings and other symptoms associated with menopause and premenstrual syndrome.
While a varied diet is the best source of nutrients for your body, taking daily health supplements like Total Balance from Xtend-Life Natural Products can help ensure that your body has all the nutrients it needs to boost your energy and improve your health.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is one of the top ten health supplements because it strengthens the immune system and helps relieve the effects of physical and mental stress on the body. Because 10-30% of adults over 30 may not absorb Vitamin B12 from food well, the University of Maryland Medical Center’s Complementary Medicine Program recommends daily health supplements containing vitamin B12 to all adults over the age of 50.
Green Tea Extract
The catechins in green tea extract, especially one known as ECGC (Epigallocatechin Gallate) protect your body against respiratory and digestive infections, short circuit the reproduction of cancerous cells, help lower high blood pressure, reduce the levels of LDL and total cholesterol in your blood, and – believe it or not – helps fight cavities. Green tea extract should definitely be an ingredient in any health supplements that you take regularly.
Vitamin D
While scientists say that ten minutes a day of full summer sun is enough for your body to manufacture all the Vitamin D that it needs, they also suggest that anyone living in the northern states should be taking health supplements with Vitamin D during the winter months in order to get enough Vitamin D for their body’s needs.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Health supplements containing alpha lipoic acid (ALA) may help your body control its use of insulin, helps protect against memory loss in aging and may be beneficial in treating Alzheimers’ disease and stroke victims, increases blood flow to the nerve endings and helps reduce tingling and other symptoms of neuropathy. The antioxidant properties of ALA are what make it so important as part of a daily regimen of health supplements.
Calcium
According to the National Institutes of Health, the average American gets less than half their needed calcium from his daily diet. Because our high protein diets and the high consumption of caffeine also deplete the body’s supply of calcium, the NIH recommends daily health supplements containing calcium for most American adults.
Saw Palmetto (for men)
Beta sitosterol, the active ingredient in saw palmetto, is one of the most effective treatments for the symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia, a prostate condition that affects over 60% of American men over 50. According to the Complementary Medicine Program at the University of Maryland Medical Center, the recommended dosage for treatment of the early stages of BPH is difficult to get in tea or tincture. They recommend daily health supplements containing 160 mg of saw palmetto extract standardized for 85% to 95% of fatty acids and sterols for best effects.
Black Cohosh (for women)
Black cohosh has been used for over 40 years to treat menstrual cramps, hot flashes, mood swings, irritability and sleep disturbances. Dozens of scientific studies over the years have proven the effectiveness of black cohosh in treating those symptoms. Even the American College of Gynecologists recognizes the value of using black cohosh to treat menopausal symptoms, though they suggest limiting treatment with black cohosh to six months or less. Health supplements containing black cohosh can help relieve the symptoms of painful menstruation and pre-menopause in women and greatly increase the enjoyment of daily their daily lives.
Vitamin C
Daily health supplements containing Vitamin C can help your body combat the effects of aging and boost the immune system to help you combat common illnesses. It seems to prevent cataracts (Nurses’ Health Study) and protect the eyes against macular degeneration, the most common cause of vision loss among older adults. Vitamin C, along with Vitamin E, may also help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
Coenzyme Q10 (CO Q10)
Since its discovery in 1957, CO Q10 (ubiquinone) has been widely studied. It’s a component in the mitochondria in every cell in your body, where it seems to function as an antioxidant. Among the benefits associated with taking health supplements containing CO Q10 are fewer and less severe migraines, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduced incidence of atherosclerosis, increased energy and heightened immune system.
Fish Oil (DHA and EPA)
The omega 3 essential fatty acids found in fish oil, DHA and EPA, are essential for your body to make new cells, particularly brain and nerve cells. Because of the low availability and contamination of natural sources of fish oil and omega 3 fatty acids, health supplements containing fish oil extracts, particularly DHA, are a vital source of these important nutrients.
While it is certainly possible to take each of these health supplements separately, most nutritional experts recommend choosing a multi-benefit health supplement. Our personal choice of all the daily health supplements we’ve researched and tried is Total Balance, a formulation created by the R&D department at Xtend-Life Natural Products in New Zealand. We particularly like the fact that Xtend-Life is committed to the concept of synergy, and carefully formulates all of its nutritional and health supplements to work together and support each other.
Total Balance, Xtend-Life’s complete daily health supplement, is made in three different formulations to take into account the varying needs of men and women at different stages in their lives. The Unisex formulation contains all the essential nutrients recommended for your body’s daily needs in a formula that is carefully balanced to make full use of each of them. Total Balance Plus for Men adds the most potent herbal extracts, minerals and phytonutrients to promote prostate health in adult men. Total Balance Plus for Women is created specifically to address the needs of women with extra calcium, vitamins and herbal extracts that relieve and prevent cramping, hot flashes, mood swings and other symptoms associated with menopause and premenstrual syndrome.
While a varied diet is the best source of nutrients for your body, taking daily health supplements like Total Balance from Xtend-Life Natural Products can help ensure that your body has all the nutrients it needs to boost your energy and improve your health.
Guide to Herbal Remedies
Guide to Herbal Remedies
Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid natural resistance.
Angelica Root
Angelica nutritionally supports the digestive and respiratory systems.
Anise
Anise seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal area.
Barberry
Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps remove toxins from the bowels.
Bayberry
Bayberry is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to stop a cold from forming if taken when the first symptoms appear.
Bdellium Gum
Bdellium gum has many positive effects on the human body. Studies show they include: lowering cholesterol levels, reducing tissue inflammation, promoting balance in the thyroid gland, and lowering body weight.
Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. When British Royal Air Force pilots During World War II ate Bilberry preserves before night missions and discovered that their night vision improved afterwards, this herb was investigated and found to be very beneficial for the eyes. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight. It is believed that this property is related to the high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to prevent capillary fragility and strengthen the capillaries which nourish the eyes. Other properties appear to assist in thinning the blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, also lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides support and enhance the health of collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, thus aiding in the development of strong healthy capillaries that can carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia.
Bissy Nut
Bissy nut (Cola acuminate) has been known to help relieve inflammation in disorders such as rheumatism and gout. It also is used as a diuretic, and contains metabolism-enhancing properties.
Black Cohosh
The early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the root is reputed to soothe sore throat. They also used the root to help ease complaints associated with the skeletal system. It is a traditional approach for many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps, labor and delivery, and menstruation. When combined with other nervine herbs, it provides excellent soothing properties. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. Studies show it contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. It has also been shown in lab experiments (in vitro) to inhibit microbial activity.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Black Walnut
Black walnut hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites. Although this is the primary purpose of this herb, it is also used for poison oak, ringworm and skin ailments. It has antifungal properties and is also said to promote bowel regularity.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system, as well as helping to balance the hormones.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh nutritionally supports the female reproductive system.
Blue Vervain
Blue vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the organisms which promote flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic, which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by stimulating perspiration.
Burdock
Burdock is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and deposits around the joints.
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada is used to help the body relieve constipation. However, it is reputed not to be habit-forming and also nutritionally supports the stomach, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is cleansing, as well as nourishing, to the colon. It is also known to assist with digestion, and help the body to eliminate worms and parasites.
Catnip
Catnip nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used also for digestion. Catnip is also said to help ease symptoms of the flu such as nausea and diarrhea.
Cat's Claw
The highly effective properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw plant have demonstrated, through centuries of usage dating back to the time of the ancient Incas, to have a profound and positive influence on the body's defense system. Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage and indicates that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known to help nutritionally support the body's defense, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.
Chamomile
Chamomile soothes the nerves and stomach. It nourishes the respiratory tract and helps alleviate discomfort associated with menstrual problems.
Chickweed
Chickweed helps the body eliminate mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes the gastrointestinal areas and has soothing properties. It is a natural blood cleanser, as well as an herb that addresses fat accumulations.
Comfrey
Comfrey nourishes the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), as well as the bones and skin. It also strengthens the respiratory system and is considered to be one of nature's great healers.
Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cyani Flowers
Cyani flowers soothe the nervous system and exert a positive influence on tissues of the eyes.
Damiana
Damiana is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for nervousness, weakness and exhaustion. It is said to increase sperm count in the male and to balance hormones in women.
Dandelion
Dandelion nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been used traditionally to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory and glandular systems.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is an herb which has been well-known in Europe and Africa for hundreds of years and is gaining popularity in the United States and the entire North American continent. It is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system. Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone. It helps the body lessen the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues.
Dong Quai
Dong quai calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It also balances and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Echinacea
Modern scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the immune system. The active constituents in Echinacea which are thought to bolster the body's defense are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the activity of macrophages, white blood cells which destroy bacteria, viruses, other foreign invaders, and even wayward cells. It also activates the body's production of interferon, a specific protein which protects cells against the invasion of viruses.
Elderberry Flowers
Elderberry flowers can help rid the body cells of toxins, increase circulation and purify the blood.
Elecampane
Elecampane is a natural expectorant and nourishes the respiratory system.
Ephedra sinica
This Chinese herb (Ma huang) is nutritionally beneficial for fat reduction and increased energy. It facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient metabolic function.
False Unicorn
False unicorn is considered a tonic to the reproductive organs and addresses symptoms of headaches and depression in menopausal women.
Fennel
Fennel helps detoxify and remove waste material from the body.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory system, and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. Fenugreek dissolves fat and is high in nutrients.
Flax Seed Oil
Flax seed oil provides omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, as well as the immune and nervous systems. It also contains some beta carotene (approximately 4,300 IU per teaspoon) and vitamin E (appproximately 15 IU per teaspoon).
Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is a South Asian plant that is nutritionally beneficial in blocking the production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb since 1969 demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and excess calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats (low-density lipoproteins), promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's production of glycogen, reducing the body's desire for excess food; helping to nutritionally support the metabolism and burn calories. Human studies indicate that Garcinia, also known as HCA (hydroxycitric acid) may be especially effective when combined with chromium and L-carnitine.
Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Gentian Root
Gentian Root nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the appetite, nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas, stomach and kidneys.
Ginger
Ginger root is nourishing to the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body to eliminate wastes through the skin. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a catalyst for other herbs, to increase their effectiveness. It helps the body relieve congestion.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba is one of the most promising and highly studied natural botanicals. Current interest in ginkgo began in the Orient, where it has long been valued for its effects on the challenges of aging. Ginkgo is effective in nutritionally supporting the body's systems, especially through its antioxidant properties. This is especially important as we grow older. Aging is a process of deterioration. The hypothesis that free radicals (reactive molecules) in the body are a direct cause of this deterioration is gaining widespread acceptance. Recently, the benefits of antioxidant vitamins in reducing free radicals in the the body have been widely published. Ginkgo is a very potent free radical scavenger. Eliminating free radicals is important in preserving youthfulness. If we slow down the deterioration of our body systems, we can enjoy fitness and vitality all through our lives.
Ginseng
Ginseng is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy. It nourishes the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina.
Golden Seal
Golden seal is used both internally and externally to help the body fight infections with its nutritional properties. It helps the body soothe inflammations of the mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb especially nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. Golden seal helps cleanse the system of foreign organisms.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola nourishes the nervous system, especially the brain. It is said to help improve memory and enhance vitality throughout the body. This herb is known for helping the body to balance blood pressure levels and assist in the healing of wounds. Gotu Kola is known in India as a "longevity" herb.
Hawthorn Berries
Hawthorn is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory system, particularly the heart. It has been used for centuries with great success, especially in Europe. Even today it remains a favorite among herbalists as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure and circulation. When used on a regular, long-term basis hawthorn exerts a continued protection to the cardiovascular system.
Hops
Hops helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is rich in nutrients that nourish the nervous system. The herbalist Culpeper said, "It opens obstructions of the liver and spleen, cleanses the blood, loosens the belly, cleanses the veins from gravel and provokes urine." This plant is considered both a tonic and relaxant.
Horehound Root
Horehound root is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant.
Horsetail
Horsetail is rich in "beauty" nutrients that nourish the nails, skin, hair, bones and the body's connective tissue. It is also benefits the glands and urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply of nutrients.
Ho Shou Wu
Ho shou wu (Fo-Ti) is fabled in Asian history to restore the original color of graying hair. It nourishes the glandular, nervous, and skeletal systems. This herb is reputed to enhance the health of the liver and kidneys. The properties of Ho Shou Wu are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng. It is known to help improve health, stamina and resistance to diseases.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate its function. This plant contains alkaloids which help soothe the body, especially in the bladder and kidney areas. Hydrangea also works like a natural inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas.
Hyssop
Hyssop has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for afflictions of the respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs.
Irish Moss
Irish moss is high in nutrients and nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland.
Juniper Berry
Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess water and toxins.
Kava Kava
Kava kava soothes the nerves.
Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lady Slipper
Lady slipper is a member of the orchid family. This delicate flower contains in its root many nervine properties.
Licorice
Licorice root nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart and spleen. This herb can soothe irritated mucous membranes and help the body get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties. Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress.
Lobelia
Lobelia has been traditionally revered for its soothing properties that nourish the nervous system. Lobelia also enhances the function of the respiratory system and has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in preparations designed to lessen one's desire for nicotine.
Male Fern
Male fern helps the body get rid of tapeworm.
Mandrake
Mandrake works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. It exerts a powerful influence on the glands.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract contains silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the active ingredient of milk thistle.
Mullein
Mullein has been referred to as a "natural wonder herb" which soothes the lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Mullein can help remove mucus from the system.
Myrrh
Traditionally, the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for soothing muscles and wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucuous membranes with its cleansing effects. The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a comforting gargle for a scratchy throat.
Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems.
Oatstraw
Oatstraw contains high amounts of bone-building materials.
Pan Pien Pien
Pan pien lien helps the body remove obstructions and congestion, thus strengthening and improving many areas. It nourishes and strengthens the lung areas, as well as soothing the muscles and joints.
Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.
Parruva Brava
Parruva brava nourishes the thermogenic processes of the body. It has been traditionally valued for its purification properties which promote perspiration.
Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
Pau d'Arco
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the body's defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and infections.
Passionflower
Passionflower has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness by nourishing the nervous system. Passionflower has been traditionally used in both herbal and homeopathic medicine for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments show that passicol, an alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds, yeasts, and bacteria.
Peppermint
Peppermint calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It comforts the stomach and nourishes the salivary glands to help with digestion. It has astringent properties and soothes the nervous system.
Periwinkle
Periwinkle helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced circulation.
Pippali Fruit
Pippali fruit is a pepper which has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine to address digestive disorders and obesity.
Prickly Ash
Prickly Ash nourishes and enhances circulation throughout the entire body.
Queen of the Meadow
Queen of the Meadow is traditionally valued to help heal strains, sprains, and the associated aches. It nourishes the ligaments and tendons, and assists in restoring their normal function. It helps release inorganic deposits from the joints and tissues.
Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.
Raspberry Leaf
Red raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body so that diarrhea or constipation can be relieved.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
Safflower
The flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. Safflower helps balance cholesterol in the body, and assists in eliminating excessive uric acid. It helps break up phlegm and soothes the digestive system.
Sage
Sage helps check excessive mucus in the body.
Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla contains substances which are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and balance the glandular system.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto berry is said to nourish glandular tissue, and has been used by herbalists and others to nutritionally support the prostate gland.
Schizandra Chinensis
Schizandra chinensis helps the body adapt to stress and nourishes the nervous system.
Scullcap
Scullcap is one of the most powerful herbs to help you get a better night's sleep. It calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood pressure.
Senega Root
Senega root nourishes the respiratory tract.
Senna
Senna assists in expelling waste from the intestines and kills worms.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which normally would alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body energy to overcome stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng may help reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance the immune system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm can help the body eliminate mucus from the lungs and strengthen the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. It soothes irritated tissues and helps nourish and strengthen the body.
Squaw Vine
Squaw vine strengthens the uterus, and helps relieve congestion there and in the ovaries. It may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections.
Suma
Suma is an adaptogen herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and acts as a tonic to the entire system. By enhancing the body's immune system, Suma aids in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Suma contains significant amounts of Germanium, a trace mineral which stimulates the immune system and helps promote oxygen flow to cells. It also contains "allantoin", a substance which assists in healing wounds. Some of Suma's other beneficial nutrients include vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and the natural plant hormones sitosterol and stigmasterol. These phytochemicals nourish the circulatory and glandular systems. The Japanese investigated Suma in trials against specific types of tumor cells. The researchers discovered that six saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E, and F are the unique chemicals present in Suma that inhibit tumor cell growth. Brazilian researchers have found that Suma is both safe and effective for altered-immune disorders.
Thyme
Thyme is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic, with healing powers. It is said to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal disturbances.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water.
Valerian
Valerian root nourishes the nervous system and has soothing properties. Valerian is a safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe rattled nerves and assists the body in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to give calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels.
Watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.
White Oak
White oak bark is a marvelous herb to help nourish and strengthen injured areas of the body. It has been used successfully for many applications, including fortifying blood vessels and tissues. White Oak has astringent properties, and it also soothes the throat.
White Willow
White willow benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works like a mild and natural analgesic which is gentle on the stomach.
Wild Cherry Bark
Wild Cherry Bark is considered to be a very useful expectorant.
Wild Yam
Wild yam has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes the digestive system and the nerves.
Wood Betony
Wood betony works well for both children and adults. It is said to help migraine headaches.
Wormwood
Wormwood helps eliminate worms and parasites.
Yellow Dock Root
Yellow dock root is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, stimulates bile production, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies the blood.
Yerba Santa
Yerba santa helps the body expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is known as a blood purifier and strengthener of the digestive system.
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Nothing stated here should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. This blog is for informational and educational purposes only, and is simply a collection of information in the public domain. Information conveyed herein is based on pharmacological and other records - both ancient and modern. No claims whatsoever can be made as to the specific benefits accruing from the use of any herb or nutrients.
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Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has historically been known for assisting the functions of the gastrointestinal tract, and for its properties of soothing, cleansing and helping the body to maintain healthy tissues. This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent overacidity - a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, is currently being studied for its ability to strengthen the immune system. Studies have shown acemannan to boost T-lymphocyte cells that aid natural resistance.
Angelica Root
Angelica nutritionally supports the digestive and respiratory systems.
Anise
Anise seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal area.
Barberry
Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the bile to flow freely. It helps remove toxins from the bowels.
Bayberry
Bayberry is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. It is effective for helping to stop a cold from forming if taken when the first symptoms appear.
Bdellium Gum
Bdellium gum has many positive effects on the human body. Studies show they include: lowering cholesterol levels, reducing tissue inflammation, promoting balance in the thyroid gland, and lowering body weight.
Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from eyestrain or fatigue, and can improve circulation to the eyes. When British Royal Air Force pilots During World War II ate Bilberry preserves before night missions and discovered that their night vision improved afterwards, this herb was investigated and found to be very beneficial for the eyes. Bilberry works by improving the microcirculation and regeneration of retinal purple, a substance required for good eyesight. It is believed that this property is related to the high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to prevent capillary fragility and strengthen the capillaries which nourish the eyes. Other properties appear to assist in thinning the blood and stimulating the release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, also lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides support and enhance the health of collagen structures in the blood vessels of the eyes, thus aiding in the development of strong healthy capillaries that can carry vital nutrients to eye muscles and nerves. Bilberry has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness." Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as pigmentosa, retinitis, glaucoma, and myopia.
Bissy Nut
Bissy nut (Cola acuminate) has been known to help relieve inflammation in disorders such as rheumatism and gout. It also is used as a diuretic, and contains metabolism-enhancing properties.
Black Cohosh
The early Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite and a tea from the root is reputed to soothe sore throat. They also used the root to help ease complaints associated with the skeletal system. It is a traditional approach for many gynecological topics, including menstrual cramps, labor and delivery, and menstruation. When combined with other nervine herbs, it provides excellent soothing properties. Black Cohosh also nourishes the respiratory system. Black Cohosh has traditionally been used to calm the nervous system by nourishing blood vessels, and balancing the hormones in menopausal women. Studies show it contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. It has also been shown in lab experiments (in vitro) to inhibit microbial activity.
Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substance supports the body's manufacture of hormone-like substances known as prostaglandins which help regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes and is a structural component of the brain, bone marrow, muscles and cell membranes.
Black Walnut
Black walnut hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites. Although this is the primary purpose of this herb, it is also used for poison oak, ringworm and skin ailments. It has antifungal properties and is also said to promote bowel regularity.
Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system, as well as helping to balance the hormones.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh nutritionally supports the female reproductive system.
Blue Vervain
Blue vervain nourishes the digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It helps the body maintain balance during the winter season, and fortifies it against the organisms which promote flu, coughs and colds. This herb acts as a diaphoretic, which means that it helps the body eliminate toxins through the pores by stimulating perspiration.
Burdock
Burdock is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It is favored for helping the body maintain healthy skin. It nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as remove accumulations and deposits around the joints.
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada is used to help the body relieve constipation. However, it is reputed not to be habit-forming and also nutritionally supports the stomach, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. It is cleansing, as well as nourishing, to the colon. It is also known to assist with digestion, and help the body to eliminate worms and parasites.
Catnip
Catnip nourishes the stomach and nerves. It calms the nervous system and is used also for digestion. Catnip is also said to help ease symptoms of the flu such as nausea and diarrhea.
Cat's Claw
The highly effective properties contained in the inner bark of the cat's claw plant have demonstrated, through centuries of usage dating back to the time of the ancient Incas, to have a profound and positive influence on the body's defense system. Studies conducted since the 1970s at research clinics in Peru, Austria, Germany, England, Hungary and Italy validate the traditional usage and indicates that this herb may be beneficial in ameliorating a host of modern day afflictions which have no answers from the orthodox medical arena. It is known to help nutritionally support the body's defense, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant and build properties.
Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system. It aids the body to balance pressure levels and resist abnormal bleeding. Cayenne also nourishes the digestive system. This plant assists in the body's utilization of other herbs, when used in an herbal combination. When applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort.
Celery Seed
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex.
Chamomile
Chamomile soothes the nerves and stomach. It nourishes the respiratory tract and helps alleviate discomfort associated with menstrual problems.
Chickweed
Chickweed helps the body eliminate mucus and fatty plaque from the system. It nourishes the gastrointestinal areas and has soothing properties. It is a natural blood cleanser, as well as an herb that addresses fat accumulations.
Comfrey
Comfrey nourishes the pituitary gland (the master gland of the body), as well as the bones and skin. It also strengthens the respiratory system and is considered to be one of nature's great healers.
Cranberry
Cranberry contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. This prevents the bacteria from spreading and eventually results in the halt of infection. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.
Cyani Flowers
Cyani flowers soothe the nervous system and exert a positive influence on tissues of the eyes.
Damiana
Damiana is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for nervousness, weakness and exhaustion. It is said to increase sperm count in the male and to balance hormones in women.
Dandelion
Dandelion nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been used traditionally to purify the blood, and to benefit the circulatory and glandular systems.
Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is an herb which has been well-known in Europe and Africa for hundreds of years and is gaining popularity in the United States and the entire North American continent. It is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system. Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone. It helps the body lessen the severity of pain in joints and connective tissues.
Dong Quai
Dong quai calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It also balances and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Echinacea
Modern scientific studies now validate Echinacea's traditional usage as a topical agent to help the body repair skin wounds, and internally to enhance the immune system. The active constituents in Echinacea which are thought to bolster the body's defense are known as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides stimulate the activity of macrophages, white blood cells which destroy bacteria, viruses, other foreign invaders, and even wayward cells. It also activates the body's production of interferon, a specific protein which protects cells against the invasion of viruses.
Elderberry Flowers
Elderberry flowers can help rid the body cells of toxins, increase circulation and purify the blood.
Elecampane
Elecampane is a natural expectorant and nourishes the respiratory system.
Ephedra sinica
This Chinese herb (Ma huang) is nutritionally beneficial for fat reduction and increased energy. It facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient metabolic function.
False Unicorn
False unicorn is considered a tonic to the reproductive organs and addresses symptoms of headaches and depression in menopausal women.
Fennel
Fennel helps detoxify and remove waste material from the body.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory system, and the pancreas. It helps the body to expel mucus and toxins. Fenugreek dissolves fat and is high in nutrients.
Flax Seed Oil
Flax seed oil provides omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular system, as well as the immune and nervous systems. It also contains some beta carotene (approximately 4,300 IU per teaspoon) and vitamin E (appproximately 15 IU per teaspoon).
Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is a South Asian plant that is nutritionally beneficial in blocking the production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb since 1969 demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and excess calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats (low-density lipoproteins), promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's production of glycogen, reducing the body's desire for excess food; helping to nutritionally support the metabolism and burn calories. Human studies indicate that Garcinia, also known as HCA (hydroxycitric acid) may be especially effective when combined with chromium and L-carnitine.
Garlic
Garlic provides nourishment for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It aids in supporting with normal circulation, nourishing stomach tissues, maintaining normal blood pressure and aids the body's natural ability to resist disease. Garlic is a natural antibiotic and fungicide.
Gentian Root
Gentian Root nourishes and strengthens the digestive system. It stimulates the appetite, nutritionally supports the liver, and nourishes the spleen, pancreas, stomach and kidneys.
Ginger
Ginger root is nourishing to the gastrointestinal system. It also helps the body to eliminate wastes through the skin. Ginger enhances circulation and acts as a catalyst for other herbs, to increase their effectiveness. It helps the body relieve congestion.
Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba is one of the most promising and highly studied natural botanicals. Current interest in ginkgo began in the Orient, where it has long been valued for its effects on the challenges of aging. Ginkgo is effective in nutritionally supporting the body's systems, especially through its antioxidant properties. This is especially important as we grow older. Aging is a process of deterioration. The hypothesis that free radicals (reactive molecules) in the body are a direct cause of this deterioration is gaining widespread acceptance. Recently, the benefits of antioxidant vitamins in reducing free radicals in the the body have been widely published. Ginkgo is a very potent free radical scavenger. Eliminating free radicals is important in preserving youthfulness. If we slow down the deterioration of our body systems, we can enjoy fitness and vitality all through our lives.
Ginseng
Ginseng is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy. It nourishes the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina.
Golden Seal
Golden seal is used both internally and externally to help the body fight infections with its nutritional properties. It helps the body soothe inflammations of the mucous membranes and balance their function. This herb especially nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. Golden seal helps cleanse the system of foreign organisms.
Gotu Kola
Gotu kola nourishes the nervous system, especially the brain. It is said to help improve memory and enhance vitality throughout the body. This herb is known for helping the body to balance blood pressure levels and assist in the healing of wounds. Gotu Kola is known in India as a "longevity" herb.
Hawthorn Berries
Hawthorn is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory system, particularly the heart. It has been used for centuries with great success, especially in Europe. Even today it remains a favorite among herbalists as a cardiac tonic. Hawthorn is valued for nourishing blood pressure and circulation. When used on a regular, long-term basis hawthorn exerts a continued protection to the cardiovascular system.
Hops
Hops helps the body with pain and insomnia. Hops is rich in nutrients that nourish the nervous system. The herbalist Culpeper said, "It opens obstructions of the liver and spleen, cleanses the blood, loosens the belly, cleanses the veins from gravel and provokes urine." This plant is considered both a tonic and relaxant.
Horehound Root
Horehound root is soothing to the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant.
Horsetail
Horsetail is rich in "beauty" nutrients that nourish the nails, skin, hair, bones and the body's connective tissue. It is also benefits the glands and urinary tract. Horsetail helps heal fractured bones because of its rich supply of nutrients.
Ho Shou Wu
Ho shou wu (Fo-Ti) is fabled in Asian history to restore the original color of graying hair. It nourishes the glandular, nervous, and skeletal systems. This herb is reputed to enhance the health of the liver and kidneys. The properties of Ho Shou Wu are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng. It is known to help improve health, stamina and resistance to diseases.
Hydrangea
Hydrangea has traditionally been used to strengthen the urinary tract and help regulate its function. This plant contains alkaloids which help soothe the body, especially in the bladder and kidney areas. Hydrangea also works like a natural inflammation reliever and cleanses the joint areas.
Hyssop
Hyssop has been used for hundreds of years as an herbal remedy for afflictions of the respiratory system. It soothes throats and nourishes the lungs.
Irish Moss
Irish moss is high in nutrients and nourishes the glandular system, lungs, and kidneys. It purifies the body's cells and strengthens the thyroid gland.
Juniper Berry
Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and help the body eliminate excess water and toxins.
Kava Kava
Kava kava soothes the nerves.
Kelp
Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals which nourish the glands (especially the thyroid and pituitary). By enhancing the action of the glandular system, it helps balance the body's metabolism and rate at which it burns calories. Kelp, also known as seaweed, grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. It is known to nourish the sensory nerves, brain membranes, also spinal cord and brain tissue. Kelp contains alginic acid which can help protect the body against the effects of radiation.
Lady Slipper
Lady slipper is a member of the orchid family. This delicate flower contains in its root many nervine properties.
Licorice
Licorice root nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart and spleen. This herb can soothe irritated mucous membranes and help the body get rid of unwanted mucus with its expectorant properties. Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress.
Lobelia
Lobelia has been traditionally revered for its soothing properties that nourish the nervous system. Lobelia also enhances the function of the respiratory system and has antispasmodic effects. It has been used in preparations designed to lessen one's desire for nicotine.
Male Fern
Male fern helps the body get rid of tapeworm.
Mandrake
Mandrake works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. It exerts a powerful influence on the glands.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow has soothing properties and nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.
Milk Thistle
Milk thistle extract is a potent antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver. Milk thistle seed extract contains silymarin, a unique type of flavonoid-like compound considered the active ingredient of milk thistle.
Mullein
Mullein has been referred to as a "natural wonder herb" which soothes the lungs and irritations associated with the respiratory tract. It also nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Mullein can help remove mucus from the system.
Myrrh
Traditionally, the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for soothing muscles and wounds. Myrrh nourishes mucuous membranes with its cleansing effects. The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a comforting gargle for a scratchy throat.
Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. It is fabled among the Polynesian peoples to especially help support the body's respiratory, immune, digestive, and structural systems.
Oatstraw
Oatstraw contains high amounts of bone-building materials.
Pan Pien Pien
Pan pien lien helps the body remove obstructions and congestion, thus strengthening and improving many areas. It nourishes and strengthens the lung areas, as well as soothing the muscles and joints.
Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain which helps the body break down protein.
Parruva Brava
Parruva brava nourishes the thermogenic processes of the body. It has been traditionally valued for its purification properties which promote perspiration.
Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder, cleanser and has pressure regulating properties.
Pau d'Arco
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which helps strengthen and nourish the body's defense system. A healthy immune system is a key in fighting diseases and infections.
Passionflower
Passionflower has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness by nourishing the nervous system. Passionflower has been traditionally used in both herbal and homeopathic medicine for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments show that passicol, an alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds, yeasts, and bacteria.
Peppermint
Peppermint calms the stomach, intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It comforts the stomach and nourishes the salivary glands to help with digestion. It has astringent properties and soothes the nervous system.
Periwinkle
Periwinkle helps relieve congestion and aids in maintaining balanced circulation.
Pippali Fruit
Pippali fruit is a pepper which has been used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine to address digestive disorders and obesity.
Prickly Ash
Prickly Ash nourishes and enhances circulation throughout the entire body.
Queen of the Meadow
Queen of the Meadow is traditionally valued to help heal strains, sprains, and the associated aches. It nourishes the ligaments and tendons, and assists in restoring their normal function. It helps release inorganic deposits from the joints and tissues.
Quercetin
Quercetin has been shown to help the body defend itself against harmful microorganisms.
Raspberry Leaf
Red raspberry leaf strengthens the uterus wall and regulates menstrual flow. It nourishes the reproductive organs, especially the uterine muscles, and helps strengthen and prepare the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract. Raspberry leaf is a nutrient-rich herb that helps balance the body so that diarrhea or constipation can be relieved.
Rhubarb
Rhubarb can help dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon.
Safflower
The flowers of the safflower plant are used to nourish the liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. Safflower helps balance cholesterol in the body, and assists in eliminating excessive uric acid. It helps break up phlegm and soothes the digestive system.
Sage
Sage helps check excessive mucus in the body.
Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla contains substances which are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and balance the glandular system.
Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto berry is said to nourish glandular tissue, and has been used by herbalists and others to nutritionally support the prostate gland.
Schizandra Chinensis
Schizandra chinensis helps the body adapt to stress and nourishes the nervous system.
Scullcap
Scullcap is one of the most powerful herbs to help you get a better night's sleep. It calms the nervous system, relaxes the muscles, and helps balance blood pressure.
Senega Root
Senega root nourishes the respiratory tract.
Senna
Senna assists in expelling waste from the intestines and kills worms.
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng nutritionally supports the glandular system. It is called an "adaptogen", which means that it helps the body adapt to any situation which normally would alter its function. Siberian Ginseng has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It stimulates the entire body energy to overcome stress, fatigue, and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng may help reduce blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure levels, and enhance the immune system by boosting the body's production of natural killer cells.
Slippery Elm
Slippery elm can help the body eliminate mucus from the lungs and strengthen the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. It soothes irritated tissues and helps nourish and strengthen the body.
Squaw Vine
Squaw vine strengthens the uterus, and helps relieve congestion there and in the ovaries. It may help strengthen the defense against vaginal infections.
Suma
Suma is an adaptogen herb, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and acts as a tonic to the entire system. By enhancing the body's immune system, Suma aids in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Suma contains significant amounts of Germanium, a trace mineral which stimulates the immune system and helps promote oxygen flow to cells. It also contains "allantoin", a substance which assists in healing wounds. Some of Suma's other beneficial nutrients include vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and the natural plant hormones sitosterol and stigmasterol. These phytochemicals nourish the circulatory and glandular systems. The Japanese investigated Suma in trials against specific types of tumor cells. The researchers discovered that six saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E, and F are the unique chemicals present in Suma that inhibit tumor cell growth. Brazilian researchers have found that Suma is both safe and effective for altered-immune disorders.
Thyme
Thyme is known as a powerful antiseptic and a general tonic, with healing powers. It is said to be used in cases of anemia, bronchial and intestinal disturbances.
Uva Ursi
Uva ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water.
Valerian
Valerian root nourishes the nervous system and has soothing properties. Valerian is a safe and natural sleeping aid. It helps soothe rattled nerves and assists the body in relieving insomnia. Properties of the plant have demonstrated to give calming relief to muscles, the nerves and blood vessels.
Watermelon seeds
Watermelon seeds help the body eliminate excess water.
White Oak
White oak bark is a marvelous herb to help nourish and strengthen injured areas of the body. It has been used successfully for many applications, including fortifying blood vessels and tissues. White Oak has astringent properties, and it also soothes the throat.
White Willow
White willow benefits the stomach, kidneys, bowels, and intestines. It works like a mild and natural analgesic which is gentle on the stomach.
Wild Cherry Bark
Wild Cherry Bark is considered to be a very useful expectorant.
Wild Yam
Wild yam has many effective uses. It is known to relax the muscles and promote glandular balance in women. Wild Yam contains natural plant components known as phytochemicals which help the body balance hormone levels. Wild Yam nourishes the digestive system and the nerves.
Wood Betony
Wood betony works well for both children and adults. It is said to help migraine headaches.
Wormwood
Wormwood helps eliminate worms and parasites.
Yellow Dock Root
Yellow dock root is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, stimulates bile production, tones the liver and gallbladder and purifies the blood.
Yerba Santa
Yerba santa helps the body expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is known as a blood purifier and strengthener of the digestive system.
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Nothing stated here should be considered as medical advice for dealing with a given problem. You should consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific health problems. This blog is for informational and educational purposes only, and is simply a collection of information in the public domain. Information conveyed herein is based on pharmacological and other records - both ancient and modern. No claims whatsoever can be made as to the specific benefits accruing from the use of any herb or nutrients.
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Thursday, June 5, 2008
Minerals for a Normal Life
Minerals for a Normal Life
by: Charlene J. Nuble
Minerals are essential nutrients that serve the body in many ways. So important in the function of the human body that insufficient supply, or even over supply, of these can lead to numerous health problems and complications not to mention a disrupted life. Minerals have good effects to the body individually but for them to give out the best results they must therefore work in partners and even in groups. Most minerals complement each other thus serving as cofactor to each other in the body's most essential processes.
One of the numerous beneficiaries of minerals teamwork is the skeletal system, as do teeth and nails. Calcium and phosphorus, the two minerals that are present in the highest amounts in the body, are the key mineral players for the hard surfaces of bones, teeth and nails with the mineral magnesium serving to help the body metabolize the calcium and the phosphorus. The mineral manganese serves a purpose in this process as well and the mineral zinc is also essential because it is needed in metabolizing the phosphorus. This group of minerals also combine and work together to protect the health of the nerves and to enhance the ability of the nerves to communicate with each other and the other body parts as well as ensures the ability of the muscles in the body to contract smoothly and regularly, contributing to, among other things, a regular and steady heartbeat.
The mineral iron, on the other hand, is responsible for the production of hemoglobin (or red blood cells) in the blood which is where the oxygen is stored as blood circulates the body. Oxygen is very vital for it is needed by the cells, not only to function properly, but also to live. But without the mineral copper, the human body would be unable to absorb and use the iron. A deficiency in the mineral copper results in an anemia that is very much similar to that caused by a deficiency of the mineral iron.
Minerals also serve as cofactors in a variety of chemical combinations in the body that are essential processes of everything from food digestion to oxygenation of the body's cells. The entire functioning of the body is built upon chemical and electrical reactions. These depend primarily upon the nutrition we consume and once broken down to its basic elements, the chemicals needed to complete the various interactions. The balance of the complex system is delicate but must be maintained to ensure health and peak performance of the human body system.
Nowadays, food and water alone cannot give the much needed daily mineral supply of the human body. It is therefore also important to take up nutritional supplements for the effective and safe means of ensuring that each day the body achieves the standard recommended daily intake levels of the minerals it needs to be able to properly perform the essential operations of the body. Because the balance of nutrients in the body is so important, not only for a normal health but also for a normal, healthy lifestyle, it is also a great idea to engage in a consultation with a licensed nutritionist who will be able to assist you in devising a mineral supplement plan that is best suited to your individual dietary needs and concerns.
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Note: This article may be freely reproduced as long as the AUTHOR'S resource box at the bottom of this article is included and and all links must be Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.
About The Author
Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links and information about Vitamins, please go to: http://vitamins.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and information on all health related topics, go to: http://www.besthealthlink.net/.
by: Charlene J. Nuble
Minerals are essential nutrients that serve the body in many ways. So important in the function of the human body that insufficient supply, or even over supply, of these can lead to numerous health problems and complications not to mention a disrupted life. Minerals have good effects to the body individually but for them to give out the best results they must therefore work in partners and even in groups. Most minerals complement each other thus serving as cofactor to each other in the body's most essential processes.
One of the numerous beneficiaries of minerals teamwork is the skeletal system, as do teeth and nails. Calcium and phosphorus, the two minerals that are present in the highest amounts in the body, are the key mineral players for the hard surfaces of bones, teeth and nails with the mineral magnesium serving to help the body metabolize the calcium and the phosphorus. The mineral manganese serves a purpose in this process as well and the mineral zinc is also essential because it is needed in metabolizing the phosphorus. This group of minerals also combine and work together to protect the health of the nerves and to enhance the ability of the nerves to communicate with each other and the other body parts as well as ensures the ability of the muscles in the body to contract smoothly and regularly, contributing to, among other things, a regular and steady heartbeat.
The mineral iron, on the other hand, is responsible for the production of hemoglobin (or red blood cells) in the blood which is where the oxygen is stored as blood circulates the body. Oxygen is very vital for it is needed by the cells, not only to function properly, but also to live. But without the mineral copper, the human body would be unable to absorb and use the iron. A deficiency in the mineral copper results in an anemia that is very much similar to that caused by a deficiency of the mineral iron.
Minerals also serve as cofactors in a variety of chemical combinations in the body that are essential processes of everything from food digestion to oxygenation of the body's cells. The entire functioning of the body is built upon chemical and electrical reactions. These depend primarily upon the nutrition we consume and once broken down to its basic elements, the chemicals needed to complete the various interactions. The balance of the complex system is delicate but must be maintained to ensure health and peak performance of the human body system.
Nowadays, food and water alone cannot give the much needed daily mineral supply of the human body. It is therefore also important to take up nutritional supplements for the effective and safe means of ensuring that each day the body achieves the standard recommended daily intake levels of the minerals it needs to be able to properly perform the essential operations of the body. Because the balance of nutrients in the body is so important, not only for a normal health but also for a normal, healthy lifestyle, it is also a great idea to engage in a consultation with a licensed nutritionist who will be able to assist you in devising a mineral supplement plan that is best suited to your individual dietary needs and concerns.
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Note: This article may be freely reproduced as long as the AUTHOR'S resource box at the bottom of this article is included and and all links must be Active/Linkable with no syntax changes.
About The Author
Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links and information about Vitamins, please go to: http://vitamins.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and information on all health related topics, go to: http://www.besthealthlink.net/.
Why Your Diet May Not Be As Rich In Iodine As You Assume
Why Your Diet May Not Be As Rich In Iodine As You Assume
by: Steve Smith
The trace mineral iodine is well known for its crucial role in enabling the body's manufacture of vital thyroid hormones, but it is also important for the health of the immune system and for optimal brain function. It is widely believed by many authorities that iodine deficiency should never be seen in the affluent West, although this problem affects millions throughout the developed world.
Some nutritionists argue, however, that this conventional view is too optimistic, because the content of all minerals in foods is heavily dependent on the mineral content of the soil from which those foods are derived. The assumption must therefore be that the continuing de-mineralisation of farm soils has led to a reduction in the amount of dietary iodine commonly consumed.
Fish and other seafood, however, remain a relatively rich source because these ocean creatures concentrate the sea's iodine in their flesh. Though not commonly eaten in the West, seaweed, or kelp, is also an excellent source of iodine for this reason, and is readily available in the form of a dietary supplements. Dairy products and certain meats may also be a good source, particularly where iodine is routinely added to farm animal feed. But in countries, including most of Western Europe, where animals are grazing fields growing on iodine depleted soils, levels are likely to be much lower.
So even in the West, those not including fish or seafood in their diets, and not using iodised or sea salt, may be at real risk of deficiency. In an effort to compensate for low levels of dietary iodine, the mineral has been routinely added to ordinary table salt in the US for many years. But the practice is not as common in the UK and other European countries, where specially iodised or natural "sea-salt" has been marketed more as a luxury alternative. The problem of insufficient dietary iodine has been compounded on both sides of the Atlantic, however, by increasing concern about the possible adverse health consequences, particularly high blood pressure, of excessive salt intake. Many nutritionists, however, regard these fears as exaggerated, and believe that any such potential problems are far less serious than the consequences of an insufficiency of iodine, and may be easily resolved by the use of the low sodium salt alternatives available.
Iodine, however, cannot in any case be regarded as a luxury. Its essential function lies in the production of the vital thyroid hormones; thyroxine, sometimes known as T4, and tri-iodothyronine, or T3. And as is well known, these hormones are crucially important in ensuring a healthy metabolic rate and the release of energy from food; so an underactive thyroid gland is commonly the villain in cases of excessive weight gain, particularly where this of sudden onset, and in cases of difficulty in losing weight even when following a sensible reducing programme. A healthy thyroid gland is also crucial for the optimal functioning of the immune system.
But perhaps even more importantly, iodine deficiency is also known as a major cause of avoidable brain damage; a problem which the World Health Organisation has estimated to affect an astonishing 50 million people worldwide. Sadly, many of these cases occur in children whose mothers were iodine deficient in pregnancy, resulting in a condition of severely retarded brain development known as congenital hypothyroidism, or "cretinism". Even where such catastrophic consequences are avoided, iodine deficiency in childhood may also have serious effects on the developing brain, leading to low energy and motivation for learning, and measurable impairment of IQ scores.
Since 2001 the Food and Nutrition Board of the US Institute of Medicine (FNB) has prescribed a Recommended Dietary Allowance for iodine of 150 mcg for all individuals over 14, rising to 220 mcg for pregnant women and 290 mcg for those breastfeeding. Somewhat confusingly, however, an excessive consumption of iodine is also associated with a malfunctioning or enlargement of the thyroid gland, as well as mouth ulcers, headaches and gastric upsets, and the FNB therefore advises an upper safe limit for daily iodine consumption of 1,100 mcg for adults. Most people eating a conventional Western diet are unlikely to exceed this level.
With the possible exception of pregnant and breastfeeding women, people in the West who use liberal quantities of iodised salt as a regular seasoning are unlikely to need further supplements. But many commercial multi-mineral preparations contain iodine in reasonable quantities, usually in the form of potassium iodide, and whilst not perhaps strictly necessary, such supplementary doses will do no harm and may be regarded as a useful insurance policy given that, like all minerals needed by the body, iodine functions best in the presence of adequate supplies of all the others. And it should be particularly noted in this context that the effects of any deficiency of iodine may be intensified by any deficiency of selenium, iron or vitamin A.
About The Author
Steve Smith is a freelance copywriter and journalist with a particular interest in health and wellness.
Find out more at http://www.sisyphuspublicationsonline.com/LiquidNutrition/Iodine.htm
by: Steve Smith
The trace mineral iodine is well known for its crucial role in enabling the body's manufacture of vital thyroid hormones, but it is also important for the health of the immune system and for optimal brain function. It is widely believed by many authorities that iodine deficiency should never be seen in the affluent West, although this problem affects millions throughout the developed world.
Some nutritionists argue, however, that this conventional view is too optimistic, because the content of all minerals in foods is heavily dependent on the mineral content of the soil from which those foods are derived. The assumption must therefore be that the continuing de-mineralisation of farm soils has led to a reduction in the amount of dietary iodine commonly consumed.
Fish and other seafood, however, remain a relatively rich source because these ocean creatures concentrate the sea's iodine in their flesh. Though not commonly eaten in the West, seaweed, or kelp, is also an excellent source of iodine for this reason, and is readily available in the form of a dietary supplements. Dairy products and certain meats may also be a good source, particularly where iodine is routinely added to farm animal feed. But in countries, including most of Western Europe, where animals are grazing fields growing on iodine depleted soils, levels are likely to be much lower.
So even in the West, those not including fish or seafood in their diets, and not using iodised or sea salt, may be at real risk of deficiency. In an effort to compensate for low levels of dietary iodine, the mineral has been routinely added to ordinary table salt in the US for many years. But the practice is not as common in the UK and other European countries, where specially iodised or natural "sea-salt" has been marketed more as a luxury alternative. The problem of insufficient dietary iodine has been compounded on both sides of the Atlantic, however, by increasing concern about the possible adverse health consequences, particularly high blood pressure, of excessive salt intake. Many nutritionists, however, regard these fears as exaggerated, and believe that any such potential problems are far less serious than the consequences of an insufficiency of iodine, and may be easily resolved by the use of the low sodium salt alternatives available.
Iodine, however, cannot in any case be regarded as a luxury. Its essential function lies in the production of the vital thyroid hormones; thyroxine, sometimes known as T4, and tri-iodothyronine, or T3. And as is well known, these hormones are crucially important in ensuring a healthy metabolic rate and the release of energy from food; so an underactive thyroid gland is commonly the villain in cases of excessive weight gain, particularly where this of sudden onset, and in cases of difficulty in losing weight even when following a sensible reducing programme. A healthy thyroid gland is also crucial for the optimal functioning of the immune system.
But perhaps even more importantly, iodine deficiency is also known as a major cause of avoidable brain damage; a problem which the World Health Organisation has estimated to affect an astonishing 50 million people worldwide. Sadly, many of these cases occur in children whose mothers were iodine deficient in pregnancy, resulting in a condition of severely retarded brain development known as congenital hypothyroidism, or "cretinism". Even where such catastrophic consequences are avoided, iodine deficiency in childhood may also have serious effects on the developing brain, leading to low energy and motivation for learning, and measurable impairment of IQ scores.
Since 2001 the Food and Nutrition Board of the US Institute of Medicine (FNB) has prescribed a Recommended Dietary Allowance for iodine of 150 mcg for all individuals over 14, rising to 220 mcg for pregnant women and 290 mcg for those breastfeeding. Somewhat confusingly, however, an excessive consumption of iodine is also associated with a malfunctioning or enlargement of the thyroid gland, as well as mouth ulcers, headaches and gastric upsets, and the FNB therefore advises an upper safe limit for daily iodine consumption of 1,100 mcg for adults. Most people eating a conventional Western diet are unlikely to exceed this level.
With the possible exception of pregnant and breastfeeding women, people in the West who use liberal quantities of iodised salt as a regular seasoning are unlikely to need further supplements. But many commercial multi-mineral preparations contain iodine in reasonable quantities, usually in the form of potassium iodide, and whilst not perhaps strictly necessary, such supplementary doses will do no harm and may be regarded as a useful insurance policy given that, like all minerals needed by the body, iodine functions best in the presence of adequate supplies of all the others. And it should be particularly noted in this context that the effects of any deficiency of iodine may be intensified by any deficiency of selenium, iron or vitamin A.
About The Author
Steve Smith is a freelance copywriter and journalist with a particular interest in health and wellness.
Find out more at http://www.sisyphuspublicationsonline.com/LiquidNutrition/Iodine.htm
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