Exercise - is it Linked to Memory?
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August 19, 2008 |
We've all heard about the benefits of exercise for our hearts and to reduce cholesterol, but what about for happiness, improving intelligence and memory as well as for alleviating addiction, stress and aggression.
These are the findings from Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and The Brain, a book published this year by John Ratey, associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Ratey believes that exercise is like medicine and helps depression as well. This is supported by other studies. Depression scores were measured in a German survey where for 10 days people were asked to walk quickly on a treadmill for 30 minutes. Researchers concluded at the end of the survey that exercise significantly reduces depression.
Scientists at Yale University found that regular exercise stimulates the hippocampus which is an area of the brain responsible for mood. Their study of mice showed that exercise activated a gene in the hippocampus called VGF. VGF is linked to a chemical involved in new nerve cell development.
The findings have lead to scientists developing a drug that mimics VGF gene workings in the brain. If so, this would replace conventional antidepressants.
According to Ratey, exercise doesn't make you more intelligent, rather it stimulates the brain making for improved learning capacity thereby optimizing performance. Exercise increases blood flow to the part of the brain which is responsible for memory and learning. The stimulation improves brain functioning in learning situations.
Some schools around the world have taken note and have instituted exercise as part of the school day with teachers at Naperville Central High near Chicago reporting improved exam results.
Other studies have correlated physical activity with improved cognitive processing with the best results amongst people who were the most active. A study in Germany found a relation between the amount of activity in rats during pregnancy and the amount of cells in the hippocampus of baby rats. The more activity, the more cells. We'll have to wait to find out if this applies to humans as well.
Increased blood flow to the brain also improves memory function. From studies with mice at the Columbia University Medical Centre (NY), new brain cells grew in the dentate gyrus area, an area which is affected in old age. With new cell growth due to exercise, memory would improve.
The findings about exercise reducing aggression are not new –- we know that exercise is a good way to let off steam by burning energy. However Ratey says that the reason aggression is reduced is due to changes in the brain due to exercise which removes the feeling of aggression.
Scientists in Britain found that just five minutes of brisk walking can alleviate withdrawal symptoms caused from giving up smoking. They believe that exercise stimulates how much dopamine (a mood enhancing hormone) is produced which reduces the desire for nicotine.
Ratey believes that a brisk 30 minute walk four to five times a week is the minimum to achieve the benefits. He also recommends interval training where you speed it up by sprinting for around 30 seconds then walking for two minutes.
Information for this article was taken from The Sydney Morning Herald June 7-8 2008 Can jogging make you smarter? by Simon Usborne republished from The Independent.
For more information on John Ratey and his book:
(www.johnratey.com) and (http://johnratey.typepad.com/blog/)
About the authorLynn Berry is passionate about nutrition, natural health care and spirituality. She has a website promoting healthy eating at www.low-calorie-vegetarian-recipe.com, and a learning site at www.spiritual-awareness-course.com. Labels: exercise, stress reduction |
posted by Maggie @ 3:58 am   |
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Western Diet of Meat, Refined Grains and Diet Soda Linked to Heart Disease, Metabolic Syndrome
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June 16, 2008 |
(NaturalNews) People who eat a typical "Western diet" or drink diet soda have a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease, according to a study published in the journal Circulation. "This is a red-alert wake-up call," said Suzanne Steinbaum, director of Women and Heart Disease at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, who was not involved with the study. Metabolic syndrome is the name for a cluster of symptoms that are known to predispose people to cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. The symptoms include a large waist circumference, high blood pressure, high fasting blood sugar levels, low HDL ("good") cholesterol and high triglycerides. A person with three or more symptoms is considered to have metabolic syndrome. Researchers had nearly 10,000 people fill out food frequency questionnaires on their eating habits, then categorized them as following either a "Western" diet pattern or a "prudent" pattern. Higher scores in the Western category were given for more consumption of refined grains, red and processed meat, fried food, eggs and soda, and for lower consumption of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and fish. A higher score in the prudent category came from a higher intake of cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli and cabbage; carotenoid vegetables, including squash and carrots; fruit; whole grains; seafood; poultry and low-fat dairy. People with the highest "Western" score had an 18 percent higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome than those with the lowest score. People with high consumption of meat had a 26 percent greater risk than those with a low consumption. Fried food was also linked with metabolic syndrome. More surprisingly, the researchers found that the consumption of diet soda increased the risk of metabolic syndrome, while drinking sugary sodas or fruit drinks did not. This is the second study to find such a connection. "The first time this came up, we didn't believe it," Steinbaum said. "Take two, and it's now part of another large study." Thursday, June 12, 2008 by: David Gutierrez Labels: diet, health, healthy diet |
| posted by Maggie @ 10:06 am |
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Words of Wisdom
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June 03, 2008 |
I bargained with life for a penny,
And Life would pay no more
 However I begged at evening,
When I counted my scanty store.
For Life is a just employer,
He gives you what you ask,
But once you have set the wages,
Why, you must bear the task.
I worked for a menial’s hire,
Only to learn, dismayed,
That any wage I had asked of Life,
Life would have willingly paid. |
| posted by Maggie @ 3:05 pm |
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Addictions
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May 31, 2008 |
 Team Effort
Addictions not only affect the person with the addiction, but most often several of their friends and relatives are also affected. That is why it often takes a team effort to get the addict to a drug rehabilitation center in order for them to be helped.
Substance abuse recovery has to start with an honest assessment of the facts, but because addicts are generally incapable of objective self-awareness, they often need to hear the truth from someone who cares about them. Drug and alcohol abusers are always emotionally fragile, and if the addict you care about is going to get sober, it’s going to be because he feels loved.
It’s exceptionally difficult to keep your own emotions in check during the intervention process, and that is what is needed. The good news is that the professional intervention services offered by exclusive rehab centers can make a world of difference. In fact, the right intervention specialist will be instrumental in helping you deliver your message exactly as it needs to be delivered.
Remember, the decision to conduct an intervention is the most important one you’ll ever make. Addiction interventions save lives.
Once the decision is made for the addict to enter a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center, each person needs to be treated as an individual, as everyone is different, with different needs. At a good facility they will participate in a medical and mental health screening by a physician, a clinical therapist and a psychiatrist. These screenings help you and your therapist design a unique Drug Rehabilitation or Alcohol Rehab plan that reflects the needs identified during this evaluation process. This plan will identify specific challenges you and your therapist believe should be addressed, while also providing a tool for measuring progress.
Individual Effort
Remember, drug detox starts with you, and your decision to seek help. No one can heal you against your will. No one can take you anywhere you aren’t willing to go.
Drug addiction is a personal problem. Drug Treatment can only succeed on a personal level.
The drug treatment center that’s right for you is the one that can help you get sober on your own terms, in a way that’s meaningful to you and no one else.
Rehab can only succeed if it promotes holistic healing. Remember, addiction is a disease with both physical and psychological roots. Addicts are sick both in body and in mind. To get sober, they need to get healed on both fronts. The most effective rehab centers are those which recognize the dual nature of the recovery process, and aim to provide their residents with rehab programs specially tailored to all of their individual needs. In the end, anything less than that simply isn’t good enough.
Facility Effort
The best drug treatment centers are those which respect the individuality of each and every one of their patients. The components of alcohol and drug rehab should at least include detox, individual therapy, group therapy, depression treatment, and alternative medicine.
No one can get better for you - if you’re going to get where you need to go, you’re going to have to make the journey on your own. That doesn’t mean you won’t get help along the way. On the contrary, the right substance abuse treatment center can provide essential support as you pursue meaningful and long-term sobriety.
The catch, though, is that the support can only be as worthwhile as you make it. The day you start substance abuse treatment is the day you take your future into your own hands.
I sincerely hope that if your loved ones consider you need to, you will enrol in a good quality drug and alcohol rehabilitation center and undertake the treatment provided, to enable you to live a happier, healthier life.Labels: health |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:15 am |
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Another Side Effect of Heart-burn Medications
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May 23, 2008 |
Several popular heart-burn medications may sharply increase the risk of pneumonia, according to a recent study from Denmark.
In a review of medical records of more than 360,000 patients, researchers found that the use of drugs to suppress gastric acid quadrupled the risk of pneumonia compared to patients who didn't use the drugs.
Souce: Health Sciences Institute February 2008 Labels: diet, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 3:12 pm |
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Alternative Therapies Get Rid of Headaches
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May 10, 2008 |
Headaches are hard to treat and even harder to prevent, despite their prevalence.
The four drugs commonly used to prevent migraines have proven effective in only about half of patients and all come with serious side effects, ranging from tingling hands to cognitive impairment. Also, overuse of over-the-counter painkillers can lead to "rebound headaches" as the body builds tolerance.
"We have good scientific evidence that some of the alternative therapies often work better than the drugs," says researcher Alexander Mauskop, M.D., director of the New York Headache Center.
Some natural and alternative therapies for headaches and migraines are:-
Magnesium, which has been shown to be deficient in more than half of migraine patients. It is particularly effective in preventing menstrual migraines and migraines with "aura" (visual disturbances). One study had shown that patients who took magnesium daily for 12 weeks saw their migraine frequency cut in half, and the duration and intensity reduced. Some research has also shown intravenous magnesium to quell a migraine in progress.
Recommended dosage is 600 milligrams daily of chelated (slow-release) magnesium tablets (taken with food to prevent diarrhoea).
Acupuncture can do wonders in quelling tension headaches by increasing blood flow to hypercontracted muscles in the head and neck, and promoting production of natural painkillers and anti-inflammatory agents.It has not, however, been found to be effective for migraines (which are believed to be caused by abnormal cell activity in the brain).
Myofascial trigger point therapy may help ease chronic tension headaches. The therapy focuses on irritated nodules, or "trigger points" within the muscles (which tend to radiate pain upward), as well as those in the jaw, neck and head. Human touch alone has been shown to release painkilling endorphins.
Diet can seldom be completely to blame for chronic headaches, but it can exacerbate them, doctors say. Some foods cause blood vessels to constrict and restrict blood flow to the brain (such as caffeine) or dilate, causing pain to the lining of the brain (such as nitrates found in processed meat).
Others such as cheese, chocolate, citrus, fatty foods, ice cream, wine and beer, stimulate the brain stem or neuronal pathways, setting the migraine process into motion.
Peanuts and peanut products, foods that contain caffeine, other diary products, yeast, dried meats, chicken livers, pickled foods, foods containing monosodium glutamate (MSG), ripe bananas, sourdough and foods containing nitrates (such as hot dogs, bacon and cured meats) may also be headache triggers.
If the headache food trigger is not known, it is best to remove those most common food triggers described above for at least seven days. If the headaches improve, one food group is reintroduced at a time as a "re-challenge" to see which foods may be common triggers. A new food group is added every three days.
Exercise should be undertaken daily. This relaxes you after a stressful day, improves circulation in your brain, and releases endorphins and other natural painkillers. Examples of good forms of exercise to relieve stress are yoga and tai chi.
Content provided by Revolution Health GroupLabels: diet, health, stress reduction, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 4:12 pm |
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Fit Over 40
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May 03, 2008 |
Mega Fat-Burning System!
Jon Benson, Aged 43
Author/Creator of “Fit Over 40”
Jon tells us how to burn more bodyfat in 10 days than you have in the past 10 months.
He'll show you the “Insider Pro Secrets” that hardly anyone wants you to know.
These are the techniques he used to DROP 70 POUNDS and stay lean...at 43!
If you're even the slightest bit interested in losing weight with someone who has already done it guiding you along the way, go to Jon Benson's website. Click Here!
The news is full of stories about the health dangers of being overweight, not to mention the discomfort of not being as agile as you used to be, so go on over to Jon's site and check out what he is willing to give you to get you started on the road to health and comfort.Labels: health, obesity, weight loss |
| posted by Maggie @ 7:38 pm |
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Is the Pill Form of a Vitamin Better than the Food Source?
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May 02, 2008 |
10. Is the pill form of a vitamin better than the food source?
Even if you managed to down the recommended five to nine servings of fruit and vegetables a day, consider this: The soil in most parts of the country is depleted of selenium and contains marginal levels of zinc, magnesium, calcium and other minerals. And nutrient-rich foods don't grow out of nutrient-depleted soil.
Also, most of our food travels a long way -- on average 1,500 miles -- to our table, and produce begins to lose nutrients from the moment it gets picked.
Do the math. Yes, you can do better by eating organic: A study showed that these fruits and veggies have more antioxidants than their conventional counterparts. But most people don't eat five serving a day of conventional, let alone, organic foods, and so a large number of us miss key vitamins and minerals.
So, yes, multivitamins are good insurance.
Reviewed by: David Rakel, M.D.
Date reviewed: December 2007
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LL C.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:57 pm |
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Should I Tell My Doctor Which Vitamins I'm Taking?
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May 01, 2008 |
9. Should I tell my doctor which vitamins I'm taking?
A recent study found that nearly 70% of participants who took prescription drugs and nonvitamin supplements in the same year said they didn't tell their doctors that they used supplements.
In general, experts recommend sharing your pill habits with your doctor, but get ready to ask for a second opinion.
"In biochemistry classes, we [doctors in training] learned that vitamins are necessary for every biochemical reaction in the body," Dean says. "However, when it came to clinical study, we were never told that if cell processes slow down, vitamins can get them going again."
If your doctor lacks vitamin know-how, seek the advice of an integrative medical professional who keeps up with the latest research.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LL C.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:54 pm |
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Are Cheap Vitamins as Good as More Expensive Ones?
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April 30, 2008 |
8. Are the cheap vitamins as good as more expensive ones?
All the experts agree: You usually get what you pay for. To maximize absorption, Dean goes for food-based organic vitamins, which are usually pricier. The budget-priced ones tend to include synthetic vitamins and fillers, she says.
Regardless of cost, the bottom line is that no standard production rules exist for supplements. Look for the USP (United States Pharmacopeia) symbol or the GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or the Consumer Lab seals in order to ensure the product's purity. These mean that the supplements have passed tests to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on the label and in the amounts listed.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LL C.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:51 pm |
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Do Vitamins Lose Potency Over Time?
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April 29, 2008 |
7. Do vitamins suddenly become completely ineffective after the expiration date?
They don't become entirely useless. "Vitamins and minerals are components of food, so they lose potency over time," Lieberman says. Regardless of the expiration date, once you open a supplement bottle and expose it to light and air, you should use the contents within a year or throw it away.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LL C.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:48 pm |
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Do I Need Extra Vitamins if I Exercise?
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April 28, 2008 |
6. Do I need extra vitamins if I exercise?
Exercise produces free radicals in the body. (Free radicals are believed to play a role in more than 60 different health conditions, including the aging process, cancer and atherosclerosis.)
If you work out more than 30 to 60 minutes a day, you may want to up your antioxidant intake to counteract this stress.
Also, you lose minerals like magnesium and potassium through sweat, so avid exercisers are wise to add a complex multimineral vitamin to their daily program.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:46 pm |
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Which Vitamin Supplements Should I Take?
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April 27, 2008 |
5. I want to take one multivitamin and just a couple of supplements. What should they be?
To round out your nutrition, add a comprehensive multimineral vitamin with calcium, magnesium, zinc and more.  Then put in more detoxifying and stress-sapping vitamin C. Fish oil can provide essential omega-3 fatty acids for healthy heart, skin, hair and nails. And if you're older than 40, Lieberman thinks coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is worth the investment for its powers against heart disease and cancer. ©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC. Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:40 pm |
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Can Vitamins Harm My Health?
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April 26, 2008 |
4. Can vitamins harm my health?
It's possible to overdo fat-soluble vitamins because the body doesn't flush them. Instead, the extra amounts can build up in fat tissues and the liver. But you'd have to chomp a lot to do any damage.
"You could cause harm if you swallowed an entire bottle of vitamin D," Lieberman says. "If you took too much vitamin A, you'd have toxicity. But the first thing you'd experience is a headache."
The adult RDI for vitamin D is 1000 (international units) IU a day (it used to be 400 IU), and the RDI for vitamin A is 5,000 IU a day.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:34 pm |
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Are "Natural" Vitamins Better Than "Synthetic" Vitamins?
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April 25, 2008 |
3. Are "natural" vitamins better than "synthetic" vitamins?
It depends. Old studies on vitamins C and B6 showed no difference or greater absorption from synthetic ones.
But fat-solubles are different. Natural vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol) is more available to the body than synthetic vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopherol or all-rac-alpha-tocopherol).
"The body does judge them differently," says Carolyn Dean, M.D., a naturopathic doctor, wellness consultant and author of The Magnesium Miracle (Ballantine, 2006). In other words, the body has evolved to digest natural food, and so it can tell the difference between real and fake.
Dean recommends downing only food-based organic vitamins in order to make the best use of your vitamins.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:32 pm |
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Are Higher Doses of Vitamins Better?
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April 24, 2008 |
2. Are higher doses of vitamins better?
Let the debate begin. According to Lieberman, the government's reference daily intakes (RDI) are minimum-wage nutrition. "They don't take into account that vitamins can treat, mitigate and prevent disease," she says.
Taking high levels of niacin (vitamin B3), for example, can lower cholesterol. The catch? For some people, megadosing on niacin can cause liver inflammation. A more common reaction is flushing -- redness, burning and tingling of the face.
Also, excess fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K don't get excreted like water-soluble vitamins, so they can build up in the body's fat tissues and the liver and potentially cause harm.
In reality, however, toxicity is rare.
Your best bet: Don't take matters into your own hands. Instead, consult with your health care practitioner for your particular needs."Our society thinks more is better," says Jill Place, a Los Angeles-based nutritionist and registered dietitian. "I don't believe in therapeutic doses of vitamins unless someone needs them for specific illnesses."
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:27 pm |
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Vitamins - The Top Ten Questions Answered
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April 23, 2008 |
We are told vitamins ward off nutritional deficiencies and, even more, can help prevent dire conditions like cancer, osteoporosis and heart disease. But with the shelves lined with so many options, how do you know which pills are best to pop?
We talked to leading nutrition experts to get answers to your top 10 vitamin questions:
1. Why do vitamins make my urine yellow?
The body flushes out extra water-soluble vitamins, but the bright yellow color comes mostly from B2 (riboflavin), according to certified nutrition specialist Shari Lieberman, Ph.D., author of The Real Vitamin and Mineral Book (Penguin, 2007).
Found naturally in cheese, yogurt, eggs, meat, beans and spinach, vitamin B2 is essential for healthy eyes and helps maintain a strong immune system. B2 deficiencies are also linked to psychiatric disorders.
©2007 Revolution Health Group, LLC.Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 6:57 pm |
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Color your diet: Fresh fruit 10 ways
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April 22, 2008 |
Content provided by MayoClinic.com
 Nature offers many sweet choices for eating well: juicy red cherries, plump purple plums, and orange, luscious tangerines, just to name a few. In fact, all fruits fit into a colorful and healthy diet.
You can enjoy fresh fruits as they come: whole or perhaps sliced. But with minimal work, you can transform fresh fruit into lively snacks, side dishes, desserts and meals.
Here are 10 ways to reinvent and
rediscover these sweet options.
* Grilled fruit slices. Cut apples, pears or peaches into chunks, brush lightly with canola oil and sprinkle with cinnamon. Place on skewers or wrap in foil. Grill on low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
* Peach honey spread. In a bowl, add 1 sliced peach, 2 tablespoons honey and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Mash with a fork until the mixture is the consistency of chunky applesauce. Serve as a topping for pancakes or French toast, or serve it over roast chicken or pork.
* Lemon-lime fruit dip. Mix together 1/2 cup low-fat, sugar-free lemon yogurt, 1 teaspoon fresh lime juice and 1 teaspoon lime zest. Serve with pineapple chunks, strawberries, diced kiwi, sliced bananas and grapes.
* Frozen fruity pops. In a blender, add sliced strawberries and bananas, 1/4 cup orange juice, and 3/4 cup low-fat strawberry yogurt. Blend until smooth. Pour into 2- to 3-ounce molds or paper cups with sticks placed in the centers. Freeze for 3 hours or until completely frozen.
* Romaine and fresh strawberry salad. Combine 2 cups romaine lettuce and 1/2 cup sliced strawberries in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 1/2 tablespoons raspberry vinaigrette dressing and toss well. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon cashews.
* Blueberry-banana smoothie. In a blender, add 2 fresh or frozen bananas, 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, and 1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth.
* Plum salsa. Mix together 1 cup chopped plum, 1 teaspoon dried cilantro, 2 tablespoons chopped onion, 2 teaspoons cider vinegar, 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Serve with roasted or grilled chicken breasts.
* Broiled (Grilled) fruit kebabs. Place cubed fruit, such as cantaloupe, pineapple, mango or honeydew, onto skewers. Place skewers on a baking sheet and sprinkle with brown sugar. Broil until slightly bubbly, about 2 minutes on each side.
* Berries a la mode. Place 2 cup berries, such as raspberries, blueberries or strawberries, in a baking dish. Sprinkle with 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/3 cup low-fat granola. Bake at 350 F until fruit is bubbling, about 30 minutes. Top each serving with 1/2 cup fat-free vanilla ice cream.
* Mango salsa pizza. Mix together 1 cup chopped red or green bell peppers, 1/2 cup chopped onion, 1/2 cup chopped mango, 1/2 cup chopped pineapple, 1 tablespoon lime juice, and 1/2 cup fresh cilantro. Spread over a 12-inch prepared pizza crust. Bake at 425 F until the toppings are hot and the crust is browned, about 5 to 10 minutes.
©1998-2007 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER)Labels: food, health, nutrition |
| posted by Maggie @ 5:16 pm |
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Three Key Steps in the Fight Against Fibromyalgia
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April 18, 2008 |
Remove toxins, allergens & stresses from your body.
Reset the autoimmune system (order a cease-fire).
Rebuild the damaged bodily tissues (with high-tech nutrition). Overcoming Fibromyalgia is a bit like rebuilding a city that has been bombed during an aerial war. The 3 steps are:1. Negotiate a political decision to stop the bombing - this normally means you have to remove combatants from the city. If the enemy believes that there are still combatants in the city... they will continue to order bombing raids. 2. Recall the bomber planes. 3. Start repairing and rebuilding. Combatants = toxins or allergens or stresses. When toxins settle into a tissue area... the immune system believes it has an enemy. It will not stop believing that until the foreign elements leave. So, the first step is to detoxify the body of toxins. This includes heavy metals, allergens, etc. Ordering a cease-fire is only possible because of a substance called Collastin that has been found to help modulate immune system response, essentially telling the immune system to relax and not fight today... and antioxidants that police the town and stop damage from free radicals. Finally, damaged tissues must be rebuilt by the most effective nutrition possible. This includes a balanced approach of all... not just some of the 25,000 nutrients that the body needs. An approach that is not comprehensive ensures that real healing cannot take place. Fibromyalgia has been overcome by persons who apply the above tactics. There is no single magical bullet that conquers Fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is developed over time as a person becomes toxic and body systems are degraded. It can be overcome by rebuilding these systems through time. While many of the body systems replicate new cells every five months, nerve cells take two years or longer. So, efforts to overcome Fibromyalgia are going to be long-term efforts (two years). Labels: health, nutrition |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:30 am |
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Fibromyalgia
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April 14, 2008 |
This is part of an article I found - go to this link to read the rest of the article.
Fibromyalgia is a stiffness and pain syndrome involving muscles, connective tissues (tendons, ligaments), bursae, and joints. It is also characterized by severe fatigue that is unrelieved by sleep because often Fibromyalgia patients do not get much, if any, stage 4 (or Delta) sleep—the "healing" phase of sleep where repair of bodily tissues takes place.
Risk factors for developing Fibromyalgia are:
* A family history of depression - research has shown that Fibromyalgia is more common in people with a family history of depression.
* Gender - two-thirds of Fibromyalgia sufferers are women
* Low Thyroid Function - studies have shown that Fibromyalgia is more common in persons with low thyroid function.
What is the cause of Fibromyalgia?
Medically speaking, Fibromyalgia does not have a known cause, however, usually Fibromyalgia sufferers:
1 Do not process lactic acid normally
2 Do not sleep well
3 Have lowered pain thresholds
4 Have low thyroid function
5 Have low serotonin levels
6 Have low progesterone levels
7 Have impaired immune system function
8 Have high toxic/allergic levels
9 Have low glutathione/antioxidant levels
10 Have experienced a structural stress such as a whip lash or fall
Although correlation does not denote causation, the most logical approach for anyone is to treat each of the above correlative factors as if it might be a cause.
In other words, treatment for Fibromyalgia might well include, and should using our logic:
1 Participating in low impact exercise routines and diet regimens that facilitate processing of lactic acid.
2 Endeavoring to sleep more soundly and regularly.
3 Reducing stress and increase dietary calcium and magnesium... which leads to lowered pain thresholds.
4 Endeavoring to increase thyroid function.
5 Endeavoring to increase levels of serotonin.
6 Endeavoring to increase levels of progesterone.
7 Endeavoring to improve immune system functioning.
8 Detoxifying our bodies.
9 Increasing glutathione/antioxidant levels
10 Remedying structural damage to nerves (chiropractic or osteopathic intervention, sauna or massage therapy)Labels: health |
| posted by Maggie @ 8:14 am |
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Radiation-Related Fatigue
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March 30, 2008 |
Fatigue caused by radiation therapy may be alleviated with regular exercise, according to a study of prostate cancer patients who were undergoing radiation.
Oncologists typically recommend rest in response to radiation-related fatigue, but a study of 65 patients with prostate cancer indicated that increased physical activity helped men maintain energy levels compared to just resting.
Souce: Health Sciences Institute February 2008 Labels: cancer, exercise, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 2:30 pm |
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Restoring Acid-Alkaline Balance
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March 27, 2008 |
The most effective way to reduce acids within the body is by enacting dietary changes. A proper diet should be comprised of 60-80% alkalizing foods and 40-20% acid-forming foods.
The Standard American Diet is mostly made up of acid-forming foods including coffee, tea, wine and most proteins (with the exception of milk, butter, soft cheese and almonds) as well as most fats, cereals and sugars. On the other hand, almost all fruits and vegetables (except for tomatoes, cranberries and blueberries) are alkalizing. Dietary supplements can also be very effective at restoring an alkaline state to the body. Calcium, magnesium, potassium and pH balancing supplements like pH plus or Mega Greens plus MSM by perfectlyhealthy help to maintain normal pH levels. In doing so they also help regulate sugar metabolism, blood pressure, enhance energy and stabilize hormones. Restoring proper pH balance can significantly improve and sometimes even completely reverse chronic conditions. With recognition, dietary changes and supplementation, acidosis can safely be reversed, increasing longevity and improving the quality of life. About the authorLeigh Erin Connealy, M.D. has specialized in Integrative Medicine for over twenty years, using conventional and natural methods to determine and discover the "root of the cause" in her clinic, South Coast Medical Center for New Medicine in Irvine, California, each and every day. Many people come in to the clinic from all over the world with severe chronic illnesses that conventional medical protocols have been unsuccessful treating. She realized early on that she can truly change lives through education as well as treatment protocols. Leigh Erin Connealy, M.D. and her medical staff strives to look at the whole person while exploring the effects and relationships among nutrition, psychological and social factors, environmental effects and personal attunement. Out of frustration of trying to find the right products to help her patients she formulated the perfectlyhealthy brand of products. All perfectlyhealthy products are clinically tested. For more information on recommended products, please visit http://www.perfectlyhealthy.net/ or http://www.perfectlyhealthy.com/. ( NaturalNews) Labels: health, supplements |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:56 am |
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The Problem with Chronic Acidosis
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March 23, 2008 |
Acidosis begins when the body cannot properly dispose of excessive acids building up in the bloodstream. The body attempts to maintain proper pH balance by eliminating the excess acids through the kidneys, lungs and skin or by neutralizing the acids during the processes of digestion and cellular metabolism. However, when too much acid is produced, the body cannot keep pace. The excess waste overwhelms the system, polluting the blood and impairing the ability of the body's cells to communicate.
In an effort to protect vital organs, the body diverts the harmful acids to store in tissues, joints and bones. This might make the organs temporarily safe, but the diversion can cause joint and skeletal problems such as osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis; skin conditions such as dermatitis and eczema; and tissue problems such as chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.
Over time, the acids build up in the organs where they begin to disrupt normal functioning. This produces more waste, which further lowers the body's pH level. The decreased pH level means that the body is inundated with more dangerous acids and the problem becomes even more severe. Without restoring balance, cell walls harden and solidify. Our organs deteriorate as the cells die off, which further exacerbates our acidic condition. Now the body's state of acidosis is a prime breeding ground for pathogens such as bacteria, fungi, molds and parasites, which feed off of the diseased tissues and organs. Acidosis literally destroys the body from the inside out, paving the way for disease to take over.
In an attempt to neutralize excess acids, the body draws on its store of alkalizing minerals. Calcium, magnesium and sodium are drawn into the bloodstream at the expense of the bones and organs that these minerals were taken from. The bones are often the hardest hit, as they are drained of their necessary calcium reserves, leading to bone thinning and an increased risk of osteoporosis, rheumatism and fractures. The teeth also suffer as a result of the demineralization, making them more brittle and cavity-prone.
Keeping the body in an acidic state for a prolonged period of time can dramatically accelerate aging. Cellular structures become altered. Cell membranes become narrower and weaker. The cells eventually begin making "mistakes" as they try to repair and regenerate themselves. Acidosis inhibits the production of collagen and elastin. Collagen is the principal protein of our bones, cartilage, tendons and skin and provides rigidity. Elastin is a protein that gives our skin, blood vessels and organs elasticity. Without collagen and elastin, the body loses its youthful appearance, as it is no longer able to sustain moisturized and wrinkle-free skin. Internally, the body is also aging more rapidly. The premature cell death impairs brain function as the neurons can no longer properly conduct impulses. We begin to experience memory loss and the abilities to learn and reason decline.
With untreated acidosis, excess acids within the body attack the tissues and organs, resulting in inflammation, lesions and hardening of organ tissues.
The skin and kidneys are especially sensitive to the harmful acids. Hives, eczema, blotching and itching can occur from acidic sweat passing through the skin's pores.
The kidneys can become inflamed, which can lead to frequent urinary tract infections.
Hardening of tissues and inflammation are also contributors to cardiovascular disease, and the resultant increased risk of heart attack or stroke.
In a state of acidosis, there is less oxygen available to the body. Many pathogens live in oxygen-deprived environments. Acidosis, then, makes the body a prime breeding ground for harmful microorganisms to live. Acid buildup also takes a nasty toll on the body's immune function by seriously diminishing the production of white blood cells. The white blood cells that are generated are of reduced strength, making it even easier for disease and infection to take hold within the body. Dangerous microorganisms can now spread throughout the body, seeking out weakened areas. They break down tissues and interfere with biological processes, leaving behind a deadly wake of waste, which further perpetuates the acidic state.
Chronic acidosis also contributes to a state of insulin resistance within the body by interfering with glucose delivery to the cells. Normally, ordinary levels of insulin will escort glucose into the cells. With acidosis, the cell receptors fail to recognize the insulin hormone and deny it access to deposit the glucose, causing sugar to build up within the bloodstream. The pancreas, unaware of the insulin resistance, steps up insulin production in an effort to pump out enough of the hormone to remedy the situation. The body interprets the lack of glucose within the cells as starvation and begins to convert every calorie into fat. As a result, obesity and diabetes ensue.
(NaturalNews)Labels: calcium, health, obesity, wrinkles |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:32 am |
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Your Health Depends on Your pH Level
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March 20, 2008 |
With the aging population of the United States, the incidence of so-called age-related diseases should be expected to rise. In fact the incidence of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and a host of other diseases have been steadily rising for all age groups until it has reached epidemic proportions. That is because the factors of stress, lack of physical activity, environmental pollutants and a diet high in acid-producing foods collectively create the underlying cause of most degenerative diseases: acidosis.
Proper Acid/Alkaline Balance is Fundamental
What is acidosis? It is the reduced alkalinity of our blood and tissues. Why is this so important? Our body stays alive and healthy only because all of its 100 trillion cells communicate with each other. They do this through electrical, chemical and hormonal processes. In order for these signaling mechanisms to work, the body's internal environment must be in a slightly alkaline state.
If our body becomes too acidic, it adversely affects the functioning of all its parts: heart cells, blood cells, brain cells, nerve cells, muscle cells, bone cells, even skin and hair cells. Obviously, this leaves us vulnerable to all sorts of health problems.
The acidity or alkalinity of a substance is usually expressed as a number on the "pH" scale. The pH scale goes from 1 to 14, with 1 being most acidic, 7 being neutral and 14 most alkaline, (The symbol "pH" is the abbreviation for "power of hydrogen," a measurement of the concentration of hydrogen ions). For blood, a pH level of 7.43 - just slightly alkaline - is optimal. Levels lower than 7.0 indicate an overly acidic state (acidosis) while levels above 7.5 indicate an overly alkaline state (called alkalosis).
(NaturalNews)Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:25 am |
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Why Sunbathing (in moderation) Is Good For You
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March 18, 2008 |
This article was published in the New Zealand Herald on Wednesday April 18, 2007
By Jeremy Laurance" Sunbathers needn't feel guilty any more - they're boosting their vitamin D levels.
Twenty minutes' lying in the sun could provide your best chance of avoiding colds and flu, according to new research which demonstrates that vitamin D, not vitamin C, provides the most efficient protection against cold viruses. Vitamin D is created by the action of sunlight on the skin. The malign consequences have been revealed in a study from the United States which shows that boosting vitamin D may be the most effective way of warding off infections that cause winter colds. The authors, from Winthrop University Hospital, Mineola, New York, who publish their findings in the journal Epidemiology and Infection, say vitamin D stimulates "innate immunity" by activating peptides in the body that attack bacteria, fungi and viruses. "Vitamin D supplementation, particularly with higher doses, may protect against the typical winter cold and flu ... Since there is an epidemic of vitamin D insufficiency in the US, the public health impact of this observation could be great," they write. Traditional advice has been to swallow large doses of vitamin C at the first sign of a sniffle. But the latest findings suggest we may have been turning to the wrong vitamin. The revelation is the latest addition to a long list of scientific studies highlighting the beneficent qualities of a previously underrated health resource. Vitamin D has been described as "the wonder vitamin" after a 40-year review of research found a daily dose could halve the risk of breast and colon cancer. It has also been shown to play a vital role in heart disease, cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, schizophrenia and multiple sclerosis as well as being essential for bone health.
Widespread deficiency in the vitamin among populations in the northern hemisphere suggests it may account for several thousand premature deaths from cancers alone, American scientists from the University of San Diego said in the American Journal of Public Health in December 2005. They reviewed 63 scientific papers and concluded "public health action" to boost vitamin D levels was needed. High rates of heart disease in Scotland have been blamed on weak sunlight and short summers. Some experts believe the benefits of the Mediterranean diet have as much to do with the sun as with the regional food. The evidence of its role in fending off two of the commonest infections in the Western world - colds and flu - has come from research by US scientists who gave supplements of the vitamin to 208 women over three years. Half the women were given a 20-microgram dose of vitamin D, increased to 50 micrograms after two years, and the other half were given a placebo. Those who took the vitamin reported a 70 per cent reduction in colds and flu, from 30 episodes to nine over the three-year study. All the women were Afro-Caribbeans who were being tested with vitamin D supplements to see if they prevented bone loss, which is a common problem following the menopause. People with dark skins make less vitamin D when exposed to the sun and consequently tend to have lower levels. The startling results offer a new motive to seek, in moderation, the sunlight. Twenty minutes in the sun, with the hands, arms and face exposed, is all that is needed to get an adequate dose, but it needs to be regularly topped up through the summer. In winter the only way of maintaining levels is by taking cod liver oil or supplements.
Many countries have modified their warnings about the dangers of sunbathing in the light of the growing evidence for the benefits of vitamin D. Australia preached avoidance of the sun with its "slip, slop, slap" campaign. But the Association of Cancer Councils of Australia acknowledged two years ago that some exposure to the sun was necessary to achieve adequate vitamin D levels. Labels: cancer, osteoporosis, skin damage, vitamin D |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:30 am |
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Sun Bathing Using Tanning Beds
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March 17, 2008 |
With the modern trend towards embracing anything that is easier and quicker, there has been a rise in popularity of sun bathing using tanning beds. The time spent in a tanning bed is typically much less than an afternoon at the beach, but the radiation levels are more intense than from sunlight and the UVA to UVB radiation ratio is much higher than from the sun. The wavelengths of UVA light are longer and penetrate farther into the skin. UVA radiation is a more potent cause of skin cancer than the shorter UVB light. UVA radiation, and UVB less so, puts people at risk for DNA damage and skin cancer, but only exposure to UVB radiation will produce vitamin D, which protects against many illnesses. The amount of UVA radiation in the light of tanning beds is typically between 3 to 8 times greater than in sunlight, so you can see that tanning in the fresh air and sunlight in the natural way would appear to be much safer than using tanning beds. Go out and get your healthy glow from the sun at a safe time of day, nourish your body with good nutrition, and you will also get your quota of vitamin D. Please don't overdo your exposure to sunlight if you want to maintain a youthful appearance. Too much sun on your skin dries it out and forms wrinkles, but not enough sun means you don't get your quota of vitamin D, so as with many things in life it's a balancing act. Reference Woollons, A., Clingen, P.H., Price, M.L., Arlett, C.F., Green, M.H.L. (1997). Induction of mutagenic DNA damage in human fibroblasts after exposure to artificial tanning lamps. British Journal of Dermatology 1997; 137: 687-692. |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:07 am |
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Top 12 Strategies for Staying Younger, Longer
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March 15, 2008 |
Time goes by day by day, and you can't stop that, but you don't have to sit back and let the effects of aging take place without a fight.
"You have the power to control how much and how fast the aging process works on your body. You can even reverse some of the damage that has already been done," says Tom Monte, author of many health and wellness books, including "Staying Young: How To Prevent, Slow or Reverse More than 60 Signs of Aging."
The aging process is caused by oxidation, the breakdown of cells and tissues as they mingle with oxygen. "It's just like the rust in a car," Mr. Monte says.
You can fight that process by adopting healthful lifestyle habits that:
* Help your immune system fight disease.
* Build up reserves of lean muscle mass.
* Prevent or slow degenerative changes.
* Rebuild damaged tissue and restore lost function.
* Help yourself
Anti-aging strategies can add to the quality of your life and health no matter how old you are, Mr. Monte says. Studies have found people in their 40s, 50s and 60s who start strength-training programs gain increased protection from injury.
Here are Mr. Monte's top 12 strategies for staying younger, longer:
Don't smoke. Each puff hastens aging's degenerative processes. Plus, smoking lowers your aerobic capacity, making it harder for you to do the things you enjoy and making you feel old before your time.
Eat foods rich in antioxidants. Vitamins A, C and E fight free-radical formation, the oxidation process that damages tissues. Eating 5½ cups of fruits and vegetables daily will help you get enough of these vitamins. Among the best sources are broccoli, cauliflower, red peppers and other red, yellow and green vegetables.
Eat lots of fiber. Dietary fiber found in beans, broccoli, bran and other complex carbohydrates helps lower cholesterol, aids digestion and defends against some kinds of cancers.
Maintain healthful cholesterol levels. Keep your total cholesterol level below 200 and your percentage of protective HDL cholesterol high. Following a diet that limits your fat intake to 30 percent or less of your total calories will help. Maintaining a healthful weight also is beneficial.
Exercise regularly. Age robs you of aerobic capacity. Performing 30 minutes of moderate activity three to four times a week can help you retain your capacity.
Build strength. As you age, you lose muscle mass; this weighs you down and reduces your ability to burn calories efficiently. Regular strength training can help reverse this trend.
Be flexible. Tight muscles limit your range of motion and increase your injury risk. A daily stretching routine that works each of your major muscle groups will help you stay supple.
Get enough sleep. While you rest, your body uses the nutrients you've consumed that day to repair the damage done by the day's activities. Not getting enough sleep keeps your immune system from doing its job and keeps your body in a state of disrepair.
Take care of your back. Keep muscles that support the spine strong and supple with cardiovascular and flexibility exercises. Use good body mechanics while lifting, standing or sitting for long periods of time.
Deal with stress. Stress is linked to many diseases and degenerative conditions associated with aging. Learn to look at problems as challenges and accept situations you can't change.
Stay close to your friends and family. A circle of support helps you deal with problems better, feel healthier and live longer.
Be nice. There's a relationship between hostility, heart disease and other stress-related problems. Look for reasons to be pleasant and to forgive people who make you angry. You may live longer as a result, and you'll probably enjoy life more.
Content provided by Staywell Custom Communications
Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:53 am |
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Nissan's Electric Vehicle - A Fun Car
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March 11, 2008 |
Now this may be just what you're looking for. I hope they develop this into a vehicle that everyone can afford, it sounds great!!
Nissan Motor Company has developed an electric vehicle that pivots on its wheel axis, can squeeze into tight spots without backing up, and even tells its driver to relax when stressed out. The car was displayed at the Tokyo Motor show in late 2007.
The Pivo 2 is a three-seater commuter vehicle shaped like a ball. The top portion, where the seats are located, is capable of pivoting independently of the wheel frame, allowing the driver to face in any direction. Combined with the fact that the wheels also rotate 90 degrees, the Pivo 2 has an unprecedented degree of maneuverability. Parking in tight spots does not require complex maneuvering, and no reverse gear is necessary. According to Nissan, the concept car is still too expensive for commercial sale, but the company is working on making it more accessible. In a new feature from original Pivo concept vehicle, Nissan has added a talking robotic head to the inside of the Pivo 2's cabin, in order to keep drivers company. The robot's computer is programmed to detect a driver's mood based on their facial expressions, voice volume and speaking speed. When it detects a certain mood, the robot's head speaks preprogrammed phrases. If a driver appears stressed out, for example, the head would say "Relax, don't worry." The head is also capable of bobbing up and down. According to the vehicle's chief designer, Masato Inoue, the goal was to make a car that people could see as more than an inanimate object and actually grow emotionally attached to. " We want people to feel how cars can be so much fun," said Shiro Nakamura, head designer for Nissan Motors. The Pivo 2 is fully electric and can travel up to 125 kilometers (78 miles) without being recharged. It can be charged from any normal wall socket, and does not need a special charging station or device.
Source: NaturalNews.com |
| posted by Maggie @ 12:15 pm |
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Natural Treatment for Skin Ailments
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March 04, 2008 |
Combine equal parts of raw honey with pure, cold-pressed olive oil and melted beeswax, and you'll have a recipe for a natural treatment for eczema, psoriasis, and fungal infections of the skin.
In a four-week trial, topical applications of honey, olive oil and beeswax cleared up fungal infections in more than 60 percent of the study subjects. A few drops of vitamin E oil will increase the shelf-life of the mixture.
Souce: Health Sciences Institute February 2008 Labels: health, skin |
| posted by Maggie @ 2:23 pm |
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Dinner Plate to Help Diabetes Weight Loss
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March 03, 2008 |
 DIET PLATE SYSTEM
Provides measured, sectioned or calibrated areas for the various types of food, such as protein, starchy carbohydrates, vegetables, dairy and fat Once the meal is measured, it is moved to one side of the plate and then the remaining space is filled with fresh salad or vegetables
The plates measure out healthy portions.
Using a simple portion control dinner plate can help people with type 2 diabetes lose weight and decrease reliance on medication, research shows.
Canadian researchers put people with type 2 diabetes on a calorie-controlled diet for six months.
They found 17% of those who used a calibrated diet plate lost more than 5% of their body weight, compared with just 4.5% who did not.
The study appears in the journal Archives of Internal Medicine.
In the majority of cases type 2 diabetes is linked to carrying excess weight - 80% of people are overweight at diagnosis, and doctors recognise that weight loss can greatly improve the condition.
However, many people with diabetes find it hard to stick to a weight loss regime.
The researchers tested the effect of using a calibrated dinner plate and breakfast bowl that helps people to eat healthy sized portions.
On average those who used the diet plates lost 1.75% of their body weight, compared with just 0.05% in the group who had to rely on will power alone. As a result, they were also much more likely to be able to decrease their reliance on diabetes-controlling medication, including shots of insulin.
As good as drugs
Lead researcher Dr Sue Pederson said the results were comparable to those achieved by taking expensive weight loss drugs. She said: "The weight loss results are all the more impressive considering that diabetics in general do not respond well to weight loss programmes."
Dr Ian Campbell, medical director of the charity Weight Concern, said: "Losing weight is never easy and even harder for diabetics. "To achieve these results over a six month period is excellent and with no more side effects than an occasional decrease in blood glucose, easily corrected by a reduction in medication, is very impressive indeed."
Tracy Kelly, of the charity Diabetes UK, said eating a healthy balanced diet and taking regular physical activity were the best ways of controlling weight and effectively managing diabetes.
"Cutting down on portion sizes and eating balanced meals will help people control their weight, therefore some people may find this plate useful. However, controlling weight can be achieved effectively without spending extra money. A healthy balanced diet should be based on carbohydrates and be low in fat, sugar and salt with plenty of fruit and vegetables."Labels: diet, exercise, health, weight loss |
| posted by Maggie @ 10:58 am |
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Linking Obesity and Cancer
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March 02, 2008 |
This continues the thoughts we started yesterday on treating cancer.
"Fueling cancer
Still, this notion might have stalled without two other developments.
* First, epidemiological studies began to find links between cancer and the insulin-IGF axis in people.
* Then, the entire field of cancer treatment underwent a transformation.
"What got people's attention was the epidemiologic data," says Doug Yee of the University of Minnesota Cancer Center in Minneapolis. In 1998, researchers reported in the journal Science that the risk of prostate cancer among men with the highest circulating levels of IGF-1 was four times as great as the risk among men with the lowest IGF-1 levels. Similar findings quickly followed in breast, colon, and other cancers.
So far, colon cancer has the most consistent association with insulin and IGF-1 levels, says Edward Giovannucci of the Harvard School of Public Health, a coauthor of the 1998 Science study. In 1999, he and his colleagues reported that colon cancer rates were more than twice as high among men who had the highest levels of IGF-1 as they were among men with the lowest IGF-1 levels.
Such findings fit with global patterns of the disease. "If you look at the rates of colon cancer across the world, populations where you expect people to have low insulin invariably have low rates of colon cancer," Giovannucci says. Physical activity and reduced calorie intake can lower insulin levels; populations with more sedentary jobs and calorie-dense diets have higher rates of obesity and higher insulin levels.
"Once you become economically developed, colon cancer rates go up," Giovannucci says. Also, the risks for colon cancer read largely like a list of red flags for type 2 diabetes. Diabetes itself is a risk factor for colon cancer.
Scientists are quick to point out that a higher insulin level isn't the only chemical change that can occur with obesity. Levels of hormones that cause inflammation also rise, as do sex hormones, which can be produced in fat tissue. These and other changes in the body could themselves drive cancer. Or all these fluctuations could work in concert to feed malignancies.
 And it might be not only the IGF-1 of middle age that matters, but also the IGF-1 production that orchestrates development early in life. Studies have suggested that babies born at the highest birth weights—and children experiencing early growth spurts—have a greater risk of cancer as adults.
While epidemiologists gathered evidence for a relationship between insulin and cancer, a second, unrelated advance gave the insulin-cancer connection new life: treatment success using antibodies that can attach to precise targets. Antibody-based drugs are large molecules that take the parking space so its rightful owner can't use it. Herceptin, an antibody-based breast cancer treatment, came on the market in 1998, followed by others. Targeted antibodies were suddenly more than theory.
"I think once people got more comfortable making these drugs, the floodgates opened," says Yee. And when pharmaceutical companies started casting for other promising targets for antibody development, the IGF-1 receptor suddenly looked attractive.
"They turned around and said, 'You know, there's this IGF receptor,'" says LeRoith of Mount Sinai. Drug development didn't happen, and perhaps couldn't have, until epidemiology and the technology caught up with the laboratory evidence. "Labels: anti-aging, cancer, health, obesity |
| posted by Maggie @ 1:03 pm |
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The Link Between Obesity and Cancer
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March 01, 2008 |
"Heavy hormones
Lower weight and more physical activity can affect the production of insulin, the hormone that allows the body to soak up fuel. After a meal, food is broken down into glucose, which is the body's main source of energy. Insulin triggers cells to take up and use glucose. As a person gains excess weight, the cells can become resistant to insulin's actions. To compensate, the pancreas begins to produce more insulin, but it can't stay in overdrive indefinitely. Eventually, insulin production will fall and blood glucose levels rise in some people.
The potent hormone IGF-1 and the related IGF-2 are very similar to insulin, helping support rapidly dividing cells, especially during childhood and adolescence. IGF-1 is a powerful driver of cell growth and body size: A toy poodle is a standard poodle with a faulty IGF-1 system.
The link between these insulinlike hormones and obesity is less clear than the connection between insulin and obesity. Although insulin and IGF-1 have individual parking places, or receptors, on a cell, some experiments suggest that at high enough levels, insulin starts to trespass on the IGF-1 receptor, LeRoith says.
In the late 1980s, laboratory researchers demonstrated that IGF-1 might have a role in cancer. Tumor cells were found to contain the IGF-1 receptor. In 1989, experiments with mice showed that blocking the receptor with an antibody could stop tumor growth. Researchers also found that mice bred to lack IGF-1 receptors in all their tissues were born tiny, thereby establishing the hormone's significance in growth. More important for cancer research, cells taken from the miniature mice lacking IGF-1 receptors could not be transformed into tumor cells.
"A cancer cell has to have the IGF-1 receptor," says Renato Baserga of the Kimmel Cancer Center at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, one of the field's pioneers. "If not, it cannot grow."
At first, results like these were puzzling. Unlike cancer genes that encode other proteins and start down the path to cancer after mutating, the IGF-1 receptor gene wasn't altered in tumors. Also, IGF-1 receptors show up in normal tissues throughout the body. The hormone itself is such a basic substance for animal life that even flies produce it. It was hard to imagine that a normal receptor found in normal cells could have anything to do with cancer.
Then scientists had an idea. Malignant cells may be overly dependent on IGF-1 receptors, on a scale far surpassing the dependence of normal cells. A tumor is like a car—a gas-guzzling Hummer—with a stuck accelerator and no brakes. Even if IGF-1 doesn't spark the ignition, the hormone keeps the gas tank full. Block IGF-1, according to this line of thinking, and the tumor suddenly finds itself running on empty. "
More on this interesting and thought provoking topic tomorrow.Labels: anti-aging, cancer, health, obesity |
| posted by Maggie @ 12:56 pm |
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Obesity's Link to Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes
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February 29, 2008 |
"Weighty Evidence
Living large can mean dying large, as familiar reminders about obesity's link to cardiovascular disease and diabetes repeatedly emphasize. But those warnings often overshadow another threat from obesity: cancer.
Excess weight accounts for 14 percent of cancer deaths in men, and 20 percent in women, researchers estimate. Among all preventable cancer risk factors, only smoking claims more lives.
Obesity's link to cancer should come as no surprise. Signs of that relationship began to emerge two decades ago. In the late 1980s, laboratory researchers found connections between cancer and insulin—one of the major hormones that responds to obesity.
While the findings got little attention then, today at least a half-dozen companies are developing cancer drugs that interfere with the hormone's cousin—insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF-1).
"We've been working on this for 20 years," says Derek LeRoith of the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. Yet until recently, "nobody ever bought into it." After all, even if a tumor does need insulin, the rest of the body does too. The early research was seen as hardly relevant for disease treatment.
Not so today. If clinical trials find that dampening IGF-1 shrinks tumors in cancer patients, scientists will have not only a new kind of cancer drug but also a new source of insight into the interplay between body weight, metabolism, and cancer.
In 2003, a study in the New England Journal of Medicine estimated that if the U.S. population were of a healthier weight, "90,000 deaths due to cancer could be prevented each year." That number may not fall for generations, as obesity rates among even the youngest in the developed world continue to soar. "
This gives us food for thought, and I will continue to reprint this article tomorrow. Labels: cancer, health, obesity |
| posted by Maggie @ 12:48 pm |
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The Purpose of Exercise in Aging
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February 26, 2008 |
Mental function is improved by physical activity, and conversely a lack of physical activity can lead to a decrease in blood supply to the brain, which is already evident in the aging process. When the body is exercised it induces the growth of capillaries, or small blood vessels, in the brain which in turn enables nutrients to reach the neurons. The other really important function of physical activity is to promote deep sleep. This is important because it is during the deep sleep that the brain rebalances the hormones and brain chemicals, consolidates memory, and gets us ready for the next day's activities. If you haven't exercised regularly up until now it's not too late to start. Begin by visiting your doctor to make sure you are physically able to exercise, or start with a light exercise regime and gradually build up. Labels: anti-aging, exercise, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 9:24 pm |
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Ward off an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
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February 25, 2008 |
Elderly people may reduce their risk of catching a cold or developing an upper respiratory infection (URI) by taking a multivitamin/mineral supplement combined with 200 IU of vitamin E each day.
A study of more than 400 nursing home patients showed that subjects who took a multivitamin along with vitamin E were nearly 20 per cent less likely to develop a cold or a URI compared to subjects who took only a multivitamin.
Souce: Health Sciences Institute February 2008Labels: health |
| posted by Maggie @ 2:15 pm |
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New Research on Ginseng
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February 18, 2008 |
Aren't our bodies wonderful!!
An example of this is how the body uses the ginseng root with regard to tumors. Specifically, the root has been shown to inhibit new blood vessel growth in rapidly growing tissue like tumors. The medical term angiogenesis means the creation of new blood vessels, which is a critical aspect of how a tumor will successfully establish in, and invade, healthy tissue.
 Paradoxically, other components of ginseng have been found to enhance nitric oxide (a vasodilator) levels by promoting new vessel growth, enhancing wound healing, slowing dementia, slowing hair loss and reducing morbidity from various other diseases caused by poor circulation.
The current research suggests that ginseng works as an adaptogen, that is, if new vessel growth is necessary, ginseng will promote that, but if new vessel growth would be harmful (such as in supplying a tumor) then such vascular growth would be inhibited.
The picture shows a ginseng root, precious for centuries in Asian countries.
It is shaped like a person and known as a whole-body tonic.
About the author
Dr Emily Kane is a practising naturopathic physician and licensed acupuncturist.
For more info see http://www.dremilykane.com/Labels: cancer, health, herbs |
| posted by Maggie @ 6:24 am |
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A Natural Alternative to Viagra!
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February 13, 2008 |
I'm not discounting the benefits of Viagra, Cialis and Levitra to help men with erectile dysfunction and poor sexual health. All three, when properly used under the guidance of a qualified physician, have been able to change poor sexual health into good sexual health.
But understand that these drugs are treating a symptom more than the underlining problem. The underlining problem for poor sexual health is the insufficient production of nitric oxide to help start and maintain proper vasodilatation.
The creation of nitric oxide occurs in the endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. When the endothelial cells are damaged by high blood pressure, high sugar levels, cholesterol, and smoking this decreases nitric oxide production. That's why my physician asked me if I was experiencing any erectile problems. It's a warning sign for other potential health concerns that could affect your wellness.
The main nutrient for the creation of nitric oxide is an essential amino acid call L-arginine. Without going into detail, L-arginine has both a good side and a dark side depending upon how it is brought into your body. Please see my article, "L-arginine, Nitric Oxide and Sexual Health!" for more details.
The natural alternative to changing poor sexual health into good sexual health is to make sure you're addressing your cardiovascular system. Maintain normal blood sugar levels, keep your blood pressure in a normal range, keep your cholesterol under 200 and stop smoking.
By combining this with an adequate intake of L-arginine, many males have found that they don't need to spend money on Viagra-like products to help them with poor sexual health issues. One product that I recommend is ProArgi-9 Plus from Synergy WorldWide. This product may help improve your cardiovascular system, control your blood sugar, properly bring L-arginine into your body, naturally produce adequate supplies of nitric oxide, and do it without side effects. All of which are important for good sexual health!
Until next time, may we both age youthfully!
About the Author
Dan Hammer has a background in biology, chemistry and exercise physiology. He used to run one of the largest health club operations in the Chicagoland area and has been helping people with their wellness issues for more than 25 years. His website www.Aging-No-More.com provides current information on how to slow down the aging process. Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 2:36 pm |
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Viagra's Solution to Erectile Dysfunction and its Side-Effects
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February 10, 2008 |
The way Viagra solves this poor sexual health problem is pretty ingenious.
To increase blood flow to the male organ you have three options:
1. Increase the amount of nitric oxide produced in the arterial blood vessels.
2. Increase the amount of cGMP produced in response to the nitric oxide.
3. Eliminate the PDE that converts cGMP back to GTP so that cGMP builds up. This causes the smooth muscles of the arterial blood vessels to properly relax and fill with blood.
Viagra uses option 3 to achieve an erection.
Why PDE?
Because there are 11 different kinds of PDE with only one type of PDE found in the male organ. That type is called PDE5.
Talk about creative design. All Pfizer had to do was find a chemical that would selectively block PDE5 and nothing else.
This chemical is sildenafil citrate. Here's how it works:
1. A male takes Viagra.
2. The sildenafil citrate is absorbed into the bloodstream and carried throughout the body.
3. The sildenafil citrate attaches to the PDE5 enzyme in the male's organ to disable it.
4. The male is sexually aroused and the man's brain does its job. A signal is sent to the nerve cell in the male's organ which produces nitric oxide.
5. The nitric oxide turns on the cycle creating cGMP to relax the smooth muscles of the arterial blood vessels.
6. Since the PDE5 is disabled the cGMP doesn't break down but builds up allowing the arterial blood vessels to fully dilate.
7. The man achieves a full erection.
Great stuff when it works perfectly but there are a few minor problems.
Side Effects of Viagra!
Almost every drug made by man has side effects and Viagra is no exception. Viagra blocks PDE5 but can also affect PDE6 which is used by the cone cells in the retina. This can affect color vision. For some it changes the way they perceive green and blue colors. For others they see the world with a bluish tinge for several hours. Because of this pilots cannot take Viagra within 12 hours of a flight.
The other two main side effects are headaches and flushing. The blocking of the PDE5 can spill over to other areas of the body causing vasodilatation and increased pressure. This raises the risk for stroke and heart attack. Because of this Viagra is a prescription drug rather than an over-the-counter drug.
Additionally, you need to be careful not to combine Viagra with nitric oxide producing drugs like nitrates. Always consult a qualified physician before taking any product like Viagra for poor sexual health issues.
Next post will include details of a safe alternative to Viagra.
About the Author
Dan Hammer has a background in biology, chemistry and exercise physiology. He used to run one of the largest health club operations in the Chicagoland area and has been helping people with their wellness issues for more than 25 years. His website www.Aging-No-More.com provides current information on how to slow down the aging process. Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 4:41 pm |
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Explanation of Erectile Dysfunction
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February 09, 2008 |
First Clue to Erectile Dysfunction (ED)!
If the arterial blood vessels leading to the male organ do not open properly, it is almost impossible for a male to have an erection. This is the leading cause of ED and poor sexual health in men.
Prior to 1983, most doctors thought the problem of poor sexual health was primarily mental not physical. That was until the 1983 meeting of the American Urological Association in Las Vegas. At that meeting and on stage, Dr. Giles Brindley injected his male organ with the drug phentolamine. The result was an instant erection. And to prove his point, Dr. Brindley dropped his pants to display his drug-induced erection. Needless to say not everything done in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas. Dr. Brindley's bold presentation showed that an erection was a physiological issue more than a mental issue.
To understand what happened we need to talk about muscles. Yes, I know I said muscles were not involved. Technically speaking I'm still going to hold this position.
There are three groups of muscles:
* Skeletal - Skeletal muscles are those muscles that attach to the bones allowing us to move.
* Cardiac - The cardiac muscle powers the heart.
* Smooth - Smooth muscles are found in blood vessels, the intestines and the stomach. They usually act involuntarily.
Dr. Brindley injected himself with phentolamine. It is a drug that relaxes smooth muscle. Because of the location where he injected himself, the smooth muscles of the arterial blood vessels relaxed allowing the corpora cavernosa to completely fill with pressurized blood. Instant and uncontrolled erection!
Second Clue to ED!
The second clue to ED and poor sexual health centers on the body's ability to control blood flow. Without some type of control, there would be an even amount of blood flow to most of the body. This might be OK if we were vegetables and inactive but we aren't. We are constantly on the go so the body has designed a mechanism to help divert blood flow to the areas that need it the most.
Think of your circulatory system as an elaborate design of pipes with valves. These valves can control both the flow of blood as well as divert blood to the areas that need it the most. This is going to get a bit technical but the control mechanism incorporates the following steps:
1. The brain sends a signal to a particular nerve fiber. The nerve fiber ends in an NANC nerve cell located in the artery near the point where blood flow needs to be changed. This NANC nerve cell creates nitric oxide, a potentially dangerous free radical.
2. The NANC nerve cell releases nitric oxide into the blood and surrounding cells.
3. The nitric oxide acts as a signaling molecule to stimulate an enzyme called guanylate cyclase. This enzyme keeps the nitric oxide from causing damage by using it with GTP to produce a chemical called cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP).
4. cGMP tells the smooth muscles of the arterial blood vessel to relax. This allows blood flow to increase.
5. There is another enzyme called phosphodiesterase (PDE) that deactivates the cGMP by turning it back into GTP.
6. When the cGMP is deactivated, the smooth muscle returns to its original constricted state.
Confused?
Think of a cycle.
Guanylate cyclase turns GTP into cGMP causing smooth muscles to relax.
PDE turns cGMP into GTP causing the smooth muscles to return back to their constricted state. Nitric oxide turns this cycle on from a nerve impulse generated in the brain.
So, cGMP is produced as long as the brain is sending signals that initiate the production of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide is produced as long as there is an adequate supply of the essential amino acid L-arginine.
Third clue to ED!
When a man suffers from ED and poor sexual health, the most common reason is the lack of nitric oxide in the blood vessels of the corpora cavernosa. When a man is aroused his brain does its job by sending the proper signal to the nerves located in his male organ. The nerves produce nitric oxide but the amount of cGMP produced is not enough to maintain an erection.
Read on tomorrow to find out how Viagra solves this problem.
About the Author
Dan Hammer has a background in biology, chemistry and exercise physiology. He used to run one of the largest health club operations in the Chicagoland area and has been helping people with their wellness issues for more than 25 years. His website www.Aging-No-More.com provides current information on how to slow down the aging process.
Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 4:28 pm |
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Poor Sexual Health - A Natural Alternative to Viagra! by Dan Hammer
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February 08, 2008 |
I will print this article by Dan Hammer in its entirety, but because it is quite long it will be broken up into sections. Here is part one.
For many, poor sexual health and aging go together. Because of the sensitive nature of sexual health the exact statistics are a little murky, but the following one stands out: Erectile dysfunction affects 50% of the male population over 40!
When I read that statistic I thought it might be on the high side. That was until two other pieces of information came to my attention:
First, Google lists over 17 million web pages that incorporate the word "Viagra." That compares to 3.3 million web pages for the word "aspirin" and 936,000 web pages for the word "Tylenol." When I did an overture search for "Viagra" there were over 310,000 searches. "Buy Viagra" had over 82,000 searches. "Erectile dysfunction" had over 97,000 searches. There are a lot of people (I suspect mainly men) who are looking for information on Viagra and what it can do for them.
Secondly, I went to my doctor for my annual checkup. For the first time he asked me if I was having any erection problems. I'm not going to reveal my answer but I asked him why he wanted to know. His answer had nothing to do with poor sexual health. The reason why he asks that question is because erectile dysfunction (ED) is a warning sign for diabetes and/or circulatory problems.
Creation or Evolution or Both! Whether you believe the Bible and we are created by God or you believe in Darwin's Theory of Evolution and we evolved over time, sexual health is important to both. At one time poor sexual health, especially ED, was thought to be a mental and/or spiritual issue. More and more research is slowing that poor sexual health is really a function of poor cardiovascular health.
The development of Viagra is a fascinating study. It incorporates male physiology, chemistry, and the nervous system all working together to create an erection. It also provides keys to slowing down the aging process. One key in particular will help you find a natural alternative to Viagra; one that won't have side effects!
How Viagra Works! Since we all know that Viagra is designed to help males achieve an erection we need to talk a little anatomy. In its simplest terms, an erection is the change in position of the male sex organ from a limp position to a firm, hard and upright position.
When you want to move any part of your body you use muscles. Unfortunately this doesn't work for the male organ. Why? Because there are no skeletal muscle contractions involved in an erection. It is all done by pressure. More specifically blood pressure.
The male organ contains two cigar-shaped structures called corpora cavernosa that run the length of the organ. Arteries bring blood into these two structures with veins carrying the blood away from them. In a non-erect state, the blood flow from the arteries is restricted while the veins are open to drain the blood away. When a man becomes aroused, the arterial blood vessels open up so that pressurized blood can enter the corpora cavernosa. The veins leaving the male organ are constricted. This action traps the pressurized blood allowing for the size increase, movement and full erection.
Come back tomorrow to find out more about Erectile Dysfunction.
About the Author
Dan Hammer has a background in biology, chemistry and exercise physiology. He used to run one of the largest health club operations in the Chicagoland area and has been helping people with their wellness issues for more than 25 years. His website www.Aging-No-More.com provides current information on how to slow down the aging process. Labels: anti-aging, health |
| posted by Maggie @ 4:13 pm |
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