Researchers: Colon cancer, multivitamin findings promising

Author: chakefaye
A research study conducted by Dr. Albert Baskar Arul set out to prove or disprove if there was any correlation between taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement and the reduced risk of colon cancer.

This study, published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, found that regular multivitamins and mineral supplementation might lower risk of developing colon cancer when exposed to carcinogens in animal studies.

The test group given multivitamins and mineral supplements were also fed a high-fat diet over a 32-week period, as well as the control group, which didn’t receive any supplementation. After both groups were exposed to the carcinogens, the control group developed pre-cancerous legions and formed tumors very rapidly. However, the group given multivitamins and mineral supplements saw an 84% reduction in the formation of any lesions and did not develop tumors of any kind.

This study is important because it gives some direction to cancer patients in desperate need of guidance on the value of multivitamins and minerals administered during cancer…regular supplements of multivitamins and minerals could reduce the risk of cancer.

Through this study, multivitamins have been proven to be an essential part of overall health and even having preventative cancer effects. Multivitamins and mineral supplements are useful in preventing and keeping cancer at bay if the disease has already been discovered.

Vitamin B12 promising for Hepatitis C, study finds

Click here to read about some of the other benefits of B vitamins

Click here to read about some of the other benefits of B vitamins!

Author: chakefaye
Vitamin B12 has been always been a component to achieving overall optimal health, and it’s also useful in supporting cell maintenance. Adding vitamin B12 to your daily diet has significant benefits; however, it has also now been found that vitamin B12 may be a major component in the treatment of Hepatitis C Virus, according to new, promising research.

Professor Gerardo Nardone from the Department of Clinical and Experiment Medicine at the University of Naples, along with his team of seven researchers, recently conducted a study to provide proof that the B12 vitamin can greatly help treat those infected with Hepatitis C. The study followed 94 Hepatitis C sufferers at random, with some receiving standardized treatment and others receiving the same treatment with the addition of vitamin B12 supplementation.

Nardone and his team discovered that, after 12 weeks of the treatment, those with the added vitamin B12 supplementation had “significant” improvements. These same groups, 24 weeks after stopping treatment, were still seeing the advantageous effects of the B12 vitamin:

Overall, adding vitamin B12 to standard therapy strengthened the rate of sustained viral response by 34%, the findings showed.

Vitamin B12 has many benefits, such as reducing stress and depression, increasing energy and protecting against certain types of cancer. It also helps to maintain a healthy digestive system. The study conducted by Professor Nardone and his team just point out one more benefit of this nutrient.

Research finds Vitamin C, beta-carotene link to Alzheimer’s

Click here to view an Isotonic capable Vitamin C

Author: chakefaye
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most feared and devastating diseases that all generations face as they age. Researchers have been unable to pinpoint a cause for Alzheimer’s disease but often attribute it to a combination of genetics, lifestyle and environmental factors that affect the brain over time. There has been so much speculation as to what causes Alzheimer’s disease, however, it is still not yet fully understood.

Recent research has revealed that lower concentrations of vitamin C and beta-carotene in the blood may heighten the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease in person’s aged 65 to 90 years of age. A study by Professor Gabriele Nagel and Neurologist Professor Christine von Arnim found that these two nutrients were lacking in certain patients who took part in the study:

Antioxidants may prevent the onset [of] Alzheimer’s disease as high dietary intake of vitamin C and E were reported to be associated with lower risk of the disease. We found that blood vitamin C and B-carotene concentrations were significantly lower in demented than in control persons even after adjusting for school education, intake of dietary supplements, smoking habits, body mass index, and alcohol consumption.

Only 5% of the time is Alzheimer’s Disease caused by specific genetic changes that guarantee debilitation. You can begin to reduce your risk of developing this disease with a healthy diet and increasing your vitamin C and beta-carotene antioxidant intakes. Adding these supplements to your daily diet might lower your risk of developing the disease later in life.

Study: Iron deficiencies linked to mother-child bond

Author: chakefaye
Iron deficiency has always been looked to as an adverse contributor to mothers and children during pregnancy. Low iron levels have been linked to pre-term delivery, low birth weight and increased maternal mortality.

In a recent nine-month long study of iron deficiency conducted by Dr. Laura Murray-Kolb of John Hopkins University, it has been revealed that low iron levels can potentially affect a mother’s ability to bond with her children after birth. In North America, it’s believed that at least 53% of new mothers are deficient in iron, as stated by the World Health Organization.

Dr. Murray-Kolb was able to observe a link between iron deficiency and mother to child interactions. As the population of mothers become younger there is a greater possibility that many of these young women are at risk for this type of disassociate behavior when caring for their children.

In the study half of the iron-deficient mothers received iron supplements and the other half did not. Her studies found that those given iron supplements were more emotionally available for their children more quickly than those who had not been given the supplements. The iron-deficient women were less interested in their children and were less sensitive to their baby’s cues. These mothers also appeared bored or distance more frequently than other mothers.

This iron deficiency not only affected the mothers, but the children as well. These children were often less responsive and less involved with their mothers. When physically moving away from the mother, the child was often less dependent on her for reassurance:

Our new results suggest that the effects of mild iron deficiency – which are easily correctable with supplements can disrupt the solid foundation that is established by healthy mother/infant interactions.

The importance of taking iron supplements is always important but significantly elevates during pregnancy. Iron supplements and supplements containing iron will help to foster a healthy bond and relationship between mother and child and will also decrease risk of infant preterm delivery, low birth weight and maternal mortality.

A Link Between Vitamin C and Beta-Carotene and the Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease

by Shaina Fimbel

Ulm, Germany—A new study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease suggests that vitamin-C and beta-carotene may play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD).  Researchers from the University of Ulm, including Epidemiologist Gabriele Nagel and Neurologist Christine von Arnim, analyzed the blood levels of the antioxidants vitamin C, vitamin E, beta-carotene, lycopene, and coenzyme Q10 in elderly individuals.  It was found that participants with mild dementia had lower levels of vitamin C and beta-carotene in their blood.

 

Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia, or an illness that affects memory loss and cognitive skills due to the disruption of nerve cells in the brain.  It is thought that oxidative stress may be a possible cause of this disease, and therefore varying levels of antioxidants may help with preventing the onset of AD.

 

In this study, 74 patients with mild AD and 158 healthy individuals were examined in the “Activity and Function in the Elderly in Ulm” study. The healthy control patients were of the same ages and genders as those with AD, and the average age was 78.9 years.  All participants were asked questions about their lifestyles, faced neuropsychological testing, and had blood analyzed.  The results of this study showed that participants with AD had lower concentrations of vitamin C and beta-carotene in their blood, but all other antioxidants level were the same as the control group. 

 

The researchers took into account variables such as school education, intake of dietary supplements, smoking habits, body mass index and alcohol consumption, but were not able to consider the effects of food storage and preparation and the everyday stress in the lives of the individuals.  More longitudinal studies still need to be performed to confirm any link between vitamin C and beta-carotene and the prevention of AD.

 

 

The Art of Oils

by Shaina Fimbel

What Is Aromatherapy?

 

Human beings have lived symbiotically with plants since the beginning of time, incorporating them into their daily lifestyles through food, medicine, and ritual.  Aromatherapy, defined by the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA), is “the art and science of utilizing naturally extracted aromatic essences from plants to balance, harmonize, and promote the health of body, mind and spirit”. This art of oils can be traced back as far as 2800BC, when Egyptians commonly used the sap myrrh from trees, and pharaohs were buried with urns containing aromatic resins (1).  Today it is still common to use solely the oils of plants in attempt to naturally restore and enhance the health of the body.

 

What Are Essential Oils?

 

Essential oils, the main ingredients used in aromatherapy, are the highly concentrated aromatic extracts that are distilled from plant materials (1).  Distillation of these oils occurs either through steam or expression.  In steam distillation, the plant matter is steamed until it is broken down to its fragrant oils.  These oils are then cooled, separated from the water and filtered.  In expression, the oil is simply pressed out of the plant. In either method, one is left with a highly concentrated essential oil (2).

 

There are several ways to use essential oils on and around the body.  The safest and most common use of essential oils is massaging them over a local area or the entire body.  Because the oils are so highly concentrated they must first be diluted in a carrier oil, or the fatty acid portion of the plant.  Common carrier oils are derived from olives, avocados, rapeseeds and almonds (1).  Body oils are commonly made into a 2% dilution, or 10 to 12 drops per ounce of carrier oil, before they are applied (3). 

 

Oils can also be used through inhalation, which can produce psychological and physical results.  The olfactory, or smelling, senses can link with the rest of the body, causing certain regions to either be stimulated or sedated.  The aromatics also physically come in contact with mucous membrane inside the nose and lungs, which allows it to quickly travel through the body’s bloodstream.  When using this method, three to five drops can be placed in a bowl of hot water or into a tissue and inhaled (1).  Oils can also easily be utilized by placing three to 10 drops in a bathtub before bathing (3).  Lastly, only under the recommendation of a physician, oils are rarely prescribed for ingestion to aide with severe gastrointestinal or respiratory issues (1). 

 

It is important to properly store essential oils, especially because some of the carrier oils can become rancid.  Oils are best kept in a cool place (40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit) with the lid secured tightly to prevent oxygen from mixing with and degrading the oils.  When correctly stored, oils can last from six months to two years (1).

 

 

Top 10 Essential Oils

 

According to the NAHA and “Aromatherapy” authors Kathi Keville and Mindy Green, the following oils are the 10 most common essential oils, and the ways in which they support a healthy body (1 and 3).

·         Bergamot: healthy mood and inflammation

·         Chamomile: healthy mood and inflammation, antiallergenic, digestive and relaxant

·         Cypress: astringent, circulatory tonic, antiseptic

·         Eucalyptus: respiratory issues, antibacterial and benefits immunity

·         Geranium: balancing hormones, antifungal and healthy inflammation

·         Lavender: antibacterial, benefits immunity, healthy mood and inflammation

·         Marjoram: antispasmodic, healthy inflammation and antiseptic

·         Peppermint: digestive, decongestant

·         Rosemary: relieves pain and muscle aches, decongestant, circulatory tonic, mental and immune system stimulant

·         Tea Tree: antifungal, antiyeast, antibacterial

 

Safety and Precautions

 

While aromatherapy uses natural oils from plants, there are still some potential dangers that surround this practice.  Because essential oils are very highly concentrated, the key to aromatherapy is that “less is more.”  Using more of an oil will not increase any benefits, and may actually cause adverse effects such as irritation or burning of the skin.  Pregnant women should ask their physician before starting aromatherapy and avoid hyssop oil.  This practice is also not advised for people with asthma, and lower dilutions are recommended for young children and the elderly.  Most importantly, one should always read the label before using any product (3).

 

 

 

 

References:

1. National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. <http://www.naha.org/index.html>

2. Aromatherapy.com. 2010. <http://www.aromatherapy.com>

3. Keville, Kathi and Mindy Green. Aromatherapy a Complete Guide to the Healing Art. Berkeley: Crossing Press, 2009.

During Hard Times, Supplement Sales Are Still Growing

by Shaina Fimbel

Rockville, MD—While many Americans have been cutting back their spending during the recession, nutritional supplements are one area that has not been affected.  In fact, according to the report released by Packaged Facts, Nutritional Supplements in the U.S., supplement sales increased 7% to $11.5 billion in 2012, and are projected to reach $15.5 billion by 2017.

 

But why is there an increase in supplement sales?  With money short, many Americans have viewed nutritional supplements as a more economical alternative to doctor visits and prescription medications.  However, with the economy back on the rise, supplement companies are going to have to work hard to keep their products as an essential item in the consumer’s health routine.  Their main focus needs to be on trendy ingredients that are heavily backed by science.

 

Supplement marketers also need to focus on prime demographics, such as the 65 and above age group and growing Baby Boomer population.  Other populations to focus on include younger aged groups, because while their usage rates have declined, they are still the future of nutritional supplements.  Also, although the growing Hispanic population is using supplements at a below average rate, usage is gradually still increasing. 

 

Scientific evidence is increasingly important as healthcare professionals are recommending condition-specific supplements.  There has been a rise in popularity for items focusing on age-related issues such as joint, brain, heart health and beauty.  Conversely, children’s supplements have also been prevalent in the industry.

 

Overall, it can not be stressed enough that the science behind the ingredients is what is going to be key in keeping supplements in the eyes of the consumers in our expanding economy.

The Helpful Yellow Spice

by Shaina Fimbel

Click here to read more about Curcumin Extreme!

What is Curcumin?

Turmeric is a widely known kitchen staple that is used in foods ranging from curry to ballpark mustard. Turmeric is derived from the rhizomes, or underground stems, of the Curcuma longa plant. Found within turmeric are powerful curcuminoids, which are fat-soluble polyphenolic pigments that give this spice its vibrant yellow color. Curcumin is the most prevalent curcuminoid found in turmeric, and has recently gained popularity in supplement form for its health benefits such as acting as an antioxidant and fighting inflammation (1).

Curcumin and Absorption

Before you begin adding turmeric to every recipe, it is important to understand the issue of curcumin’s bioavailability. Bioavailability measures how well a substance is absorbed in the body. When your run-of-the-mill curcumin was administered orally to patients, it was found that much of the curcumin was metabolized by the body or accumulated in the gastrointestinal tissues. The metabolites that were found in the blood plasma and serum are thought to have different biological activity than the parent compound, and therefore may not have the same effect on the body. Therefore, many of the advantages of curcumin were not being utilized throughout the body. 

However, several branded versions of curcumin have found ways to increase its bioavailability so that our bodies can benefit.  Bioavailability has been increased, for example, by creating branded curcumin with added piperine, a black pepper extract, or by reducing the actual particle size of curcumin while increasing its solubility (1-3).

Benefits of Curcumin

Studies have shown that curcumin is a powerful antioxidant, and therefore can help fight free radicals and the damage they cause to the body (4).  Several tests performed at MD Anderson Cancer Center at the University of Texas have shown that curcumin may help in fighting cancer, though much more evidence is required before the herb can be used as a cure.  In one study of pancreatic cancer, 25 patients were given substantial doses of curcumin in place of chemotherapy.  In two cases, there was no tumor growth in one patient for eight months and another patient for two and half years.  There was also tumor regression in one patient, where the tumor decreased in size by 73%, but later grew back (5).

Also, because curcumin is an antioxidant, it has also been shown to support healthy inflammation. According to the Linus Pauling Institute at the Univeristy of Oregon, a curcumin supplement was compared to a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug used by patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The patients that received the curcumin reported having less morning stiffness, improved walking time and less joint swelling after taking the supplement for two weeks (1).

Furthermore, evidence shows that curcumin may also help with triglyceride levels.  In a study published by Phtyotherapy Research, patients were given one gram of a branded form of curcumin for 30 days. After this time period, a significant decrease in the serum triglyceride concentrations of the patients was found (6). This same form of curcumin was also found to help with kidney disease. Kidney disease often becomes a debilitating secondary illness of diabetes. A laboratory study on rats revealed that ingestion of curcumin inhibited the progression of renal lesions, and also preserved proper kidney function. These benefits are suspected to be related to that fact that curcumin helps with lowering triglycerides levels (3).   While studies are still delving into the research and mechanisms behind curcumin, we can already see that this powerful turmeric antioxidant may be valuable to the human body in several ways.

Before You Start Taking It…

Although curcumin has many possible benefits, precaution must always be taken before starting a new supplement.  Most importantly, get your doctor’s approval first and always follow the correct dosages.  While turmeric and curcumin have both been found as fairly safe products, large amounts over a long periods of time may lead to an upset stomach, diarrhea and in sever cases, stomach ulcers.  Because curcumin can stimulate bile production, people will gallstones or obstructions of bile passages should talk to their doctors before taking curcumin.  People taking medication for diabetes must be aware of the dangers of hypoglycemia, because turmeric has been found to lower blood sugar levels.  Stop taking all turmeric and curcumin supplements two weeks prior to surgery because they can act as blood thinners.  Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take any turmeric or curcumin supplements, but turmeric is still safe to consume in food (4). WF

 

1. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/phytochemicals/curcumin/
2. http://doctormurray.com/2012/06/theracurmin/
3. http://curcuminoids.com/
4. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/turmeric-000277.htm
5. http://www.mdanderson.org
6. Mohammadi, Akram et al.  “Effects of Supplementation with Curcuminoids on Dyslipidemia in Obese Patients: A Randomized Crossover Trial”. Phytotherapy Research. (May 21, 2012).