The latest statistics about the amount of antibiotics used in the
production of our food in the U.S. is staggering, to say the least.
The
New England Journal of Medicine, December, 2013, just published a paper
showing that 80% of all the antibiotics used in America ,and that is a
lot, are used in some form of agriculture. In other words, food
production. Yes, what we eat on a daily basis.
So, how much
antibiotics do we use in food production? Between livestock, aquaculture
(think fish), and crops we use 30,272,000 pounds per year. You read
that right, over 30 million pounds per year. Now, think of the average
dose a human might take for a sinus infection. That would be
approximately 10 grams for an average 10 regimen, or 0.022046226 pounds.
That equates to 1.39 billion doses of antibiotics in human doses. Yes,
billions. Now do you see the problem brewing?
I am sure you have heard the term MRSA which stands for Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus. And
we have also heard the horror stories of the poor folks inflicted with
this malady. We have been warned to wash our hands and take other
measures to stay safe. All good ideas. Now we have another problem
bacteria, and most likely due to the over use of the antibiotics (see
above).
Enter carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae. Carbapenum
is a class of antibiotics that is usually thought to be the 'drugs of
last resort'. In other words, something you don't want to have to use.
The enterobacteriaceae family has such members as E. coli and Klebsiella
species, all of which are normally found in our intestines and normally
cause no problems.
So, why do we need to use all these
antibiotics? Because most of our food animals are grown in something
called CAFOs, or Confined animal feeding operations (read as just
totally unsanitary). If you put any animal in close confinement, and
feed them foods that cause them intestinal distress, you are going to
have a mess on your hands. Let you imagination go here. Due to this
'mess' of animal fecal matter, which contains the the enterobacteriaceae
species, we have to use antibiotics to keep the poor animals from
becoming infected. And when you are using over 30 billion pounds of
antibiotics, you can see that some of the bacteria are going to survive
and be antibiotic resistant. So, when we get infected with one of these
'Super Bugs', we are in big trouble.
Such big trouble in fact that
the CDC just issued an alert to high risk patients. Healthy people
usually do not get CRE, so you want to stay as healthy as possible. We
will talk about that more in a minute. It is the people that are dealing
with a long term illness that are most at risk. Patients who use
various medical devices, those using breathing machines, catheters for
urinary problems, and those that have inter-venous catheter for long
term medication delivery, and, of course, those on long term antibiotic
therapy. Also those having to be housed in long term care facilities.
As
I stated before, healthy people don't usually become infected with
these organisms. This is a red flag to use who are healthy indicating
that we must protect our health at all costs. One of the best methods of
doing this is a simple blood test, the CBC, to determine if your immune
system is properly functioning. If there are signs of a sluggish or low
functioning immune system there are steps you can take to strengthen
that immune function, but you have to know first. But I feel healthy,
isn't that enough? Unfortunately, no. We see people that, from all
outward signs, look healthy, yet their immune system is a mess. These
are the ones that are the most venerable because they will never see it
coming until it is too late.
Remember, a simple CBC can alert us
to upcoming problems. We are not talking about exotic testing, just
routine lab-work and proper interpretation. This is where just being in
range may not be good enough. Have you physician do this test for you at
least once a year, more often if you are anywhere near the lower
quartile of acceptable functioning. If you are having difficulty getting
this lab-work done, call Doctor's Nutrition and we can arrange that for
you.
Due to the overuse of antibiotics we strongly suggest eating
as much organically grown food as possible. Organically grown food does
not use antibiotics in the process. We also suggest taking a strong
probiotic on a daily basis.
At Doctor's Nutrition our job is to empower you in your quest to Live Healthy and Be Healthy.
Monday, January 13, 2014
Tuesday, November 19, 2013
Gamma-Tocotrienols may help reduce fat cell numbers
Tocotrienols are a subset of the vitamin E family, and, until now, have not got as much attention. This may change things.
The tocopherols are the darlings of the vitamin E family, and always have been. Alpha tocopherol was the first to be discovered, and for a very long time it was thought to be the only active form. Now we know much more about this family of nutrients and it is getting very interesting.
There are four types of the tocopherols, alpha, beta, delta, and gamma. The natural form of these are noted with the prefix d-. The reason for pointing this out is the fact that much of the vitamin E on the market is the l- form, or synthetic. This brings us to the newest discovery in the vitamin E family, the tocotrienols. There are also four types of the tocotrienols, alpha, beta, delta, and gamma. This brings the total to eight (8) forms of this fat soluble family.
Since the discovery of the tocotrienols much research has been done on them as to various health benefits. They have shown to have good results in protecting the cardiovascular system as well as many other health benefits. Now we have the most recent research that shows they may help in hte battle of the waistline as well.
Researchers from National Taiwan University have found that palm tocotrienols, palm being one of the most readily available sources of tocotrienols, has "inhibitory actions" on fat cells. They tested different forms of the vitamin E for their anti-proliferate effects on 3T3-L1 adipocytes (fat cells).
what they discovered was the gamma-tocotrienol "causes disruption in mitochondrial membrane potential and increases ROS (radical oxygen species) generation, which ultimately lead to fat cell death".
"This particular study further shows that gamma-tocotrienol is the most effective form of vitamin E in reducing fat cell numbers via regulating specific signaling pathways....which underscores the benefit of using it as a natural supplement in managing obesity".
Knowing that there are many other benefits of taking the tocotrienols, this just adds one more reason, maintaining a healthy number of fat cells.
As more research comes to light there are sure to be more interesting benefits found for this little known form of the vitamin E family.
The tocopherols are the darlings of the vitamin E family, and always have been. Alpha tocopherol was the first to be discovered, and for a very long time it was thought to be the only active form. Now we know much more about this family of nutrients and it is getting very interesting.
There are four types of the tocopherols, alpha, beta, delta, and gamma. The natural form of these are noted with the prefix d-. The reason for pointing this out is the fact that much of the vitamin E on the market is the l- form, or synthetic. This brings us to the newest discovery in the vitamin E family, the tocotrienols. There are also four types of the tocotrienols, alpha, beta, delta, and gamma. This brings the total to eight (8) forms of this fat soluble family.
Since the discovery of the tocotrienols much research has been done on them as to various health benefits. They have shown to have good results in protecting the cardiovascular system as well as many other health benefits. Now we have the most recent research that shows they may help in hte battle of the waistline as well.
Researchers from National Taiwan University have found that palm tocotrienols, palm being one of the most readily available sources of tocotrienols, has "inhibitory actions" on fat cells. They tested different forms of the vitamin E for their anti-proliferate effects on 3T3-L1 adipocytes (fat cells).
what they discovered was the gamma-tocotrienol "causes disruption in mitochondrial membrane potential and increases ROS (radical oxygen species) generation, which ultimately lead to fat cell death".
"This particular study further shows that gamma-tocotrienol is the most effective form of vitamin E in reducing fat cell numbers via regulating specific signaling pathways....which underscores the benefit of using it as a natural supplement in managing obesity".
Knowing that there are many other benefits of taking the tocotrienols, this just adds one more reason, maintaining a healthy number of fat cells.
As more research comes to light there are sure to be more interesting benefits found for this little known form of the vitamin E family.
Sunday, November 10, 2013
Berberine, may not be magic, but very close!
Berberine. Never heard of it, right? Don't feel alone, unless you have studied alternative medicine for many years, you would have not had the opportunity to 'bump' into Bernerines.
Berberine is a quaternary ammonium salt from the protoberberine group of isoquinolline alkaloids. Ok, so what is it really? It is an extract from, plants like the Oregon grape, goldenseal, Californian poppy, usually from the root and rhizomes. These you have probably heard of. These extracts have been used for thousands of years to treat problems like Candida overgrowth, yeast infections, parasites, even bacterial and viral infections. Recently, in the past 5 to 10 years, research has come to light showing the many other properties of berberine.
One of the most fascinating aspects of berberine use is in the field of diabetic treatment. This recent research has shown berberine to be very good at helping in the insulin resistance problem associated with diabetes. This is very good news for those suffering with diabetes and even the pre-diabetic syndromes, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance (that has not yet developed into diabetes), etc. This alone makes berberine a very important tool that can be used in turning these disease processes around. More recent research, just in the past several months actually, bring more to light on this fascinating compound.
There are many problems associated with diabetes, including eye disease, kidney problems and even the dreaded neuropathy of the lower extremities. Let's start with the later, the neuropathy, which is a very common disability for those with diabetes.
An article published in the November, 2013 issue of the scientific journal Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology demonstrated the effectiveness of berberine in attenuating the high glucose induced neurotoxicity. This neurotoxicity is the cause of the neuropathy in diabetic patients. The research even discovered that berberine could and did "markedly enhance nerve growth factor (NGF) expression and promoted neurite (nerve cell) outgrowth in high glucose-treated cells". What this means is that the berberine can cause new nerve cell growth and possible reversal of the neuropathy. That is a big 'WOW' if you are suffering from neuropathy.
Let's move on to the eyes, another known problem with diabetes. In the October, 2013 issue of Molecular Vision, a peer reviewed journal, looked at the evidence of eye pathology due to diabetes. The evidence has been pointing to the fact that leukocytes (white blood cells) are involved in the pathology known as diabetic retinopathy. Another of the dreaded complications of diabetes.
Here the researchers that, indeed, the leukocytes in diabetic patients kill the retinal endothelial cells, the cells lining the blood vessels and lymphatic vessels of the eye. They also found that berberine can inhibit the leukocyte-mediated killing of vascular endothelium. Just a side note; even though this was done on the vessels of the eye, all blood vessels have an endothelial lining, including the heart, a very important organ.
One of the most disturbing problems associated with glucose (sugar) impairment, including diabetes as well as the pre-diabetic syndromes, is the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in females. This is the root cause of many of the fertility issues facing the metabolically challenged young female today, and one we see frequently in our practice.
One of the common medical treatments for PCOS is to treat the glucose impairment problem with metformin, a diabetic drug. In a large number of the cases of PCOS metformin can be effective. In the July, 2013 issue of Clinical Endocrinology researchers found "Berberine has a more pronounced therapeutic effect and achieved more live births with fewer side effects than metformin". It seems that with berberine we have a totally new tool to help these female patients with PCOS.
We at Doctor's Nutrition have been aware of the emerging new benefits of berberine and that was behind our development of our recently released formula Berberine Max. In this formula we provide 500 mg of berberine as well as some co-factors needed for proper utilization and further protection of the diabetic or metabolically challenged patient. These include Folate (as 5-MTHF), grape seed extract, phosphatidylcholine, as well as R-lipoic acid. This makes Berberine Max a great tool in the fight against the revenges of high glucose and diabetes. Clinically, we have seen remarkable reductions in the Hgb A1c of those we have used this formula with. Considering all this new and developing research, we have great expectations for this formula. If you, or someone you know, are dealing with diabetes or metabolic syndrome, you need the protection and help provided in Berberine Max.
Berberine is a quaternary ammonium salt from the protoberberine group of isoquinolline alkaloids. Ok, so what is it really? It is an extract from, plants like the Oregon grape, goldenseal, Californian poppy, usually from the root and rhizomes. These you have probably heard of. These extracts have been used for thousands of years to treat problems like Candida overgrowth, yeast infections, parasites, even bacterial and viral infections. Recently, in the past 5 to 10 years, research has come to light showing the many other properties of berberine.
One of the most fascinating aspects of berberine use is in the field of diabetic treatment. This recent research has shown berberine to be very good at helping in the insulin resistance problem associated with diabetes. This is very good news for those suffering with diabetes and even the pre-diabetic syndromes, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance (that has not yet developed into diabetes), etc. This alone makes berberine a very important tool that can be used in turning these disease processes around. More recent research, just in the past several months actually, bring more to light on this fascinating compound.
There are many problems associated with diabetes, including eye disease, kidney problems and even the dreaded neuropathy of the lower extremities. Let's start with the later, the neuropathy, which is a very common disability for those with diabetes.
An article published in the November, 2013 issue of the scientific journal Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology demonstrated the effectiveness of berberine in attenuating the high glucose induced neurotoxicity. This neurotoxicity is the cause of the neuropathy in diabetic patients. The research even discovered that berberine could and did "markedly enhance nerve growth factor (NGF) expression and promoted neurite (nerve cell) outgrowth in high glucose-treated cells". What this means is that the berberine can cause new nerve cell growth and possible reversal of the neuropathy. That is a big 'WOW' if you are suffering from neuropathy.
Let's move on to the eyes, another known problem with diabetes. In the October, 2013 issue of Molecular Vision, a peer reviewed journal, looked at the evidence of eye pathology due to diabetes. The evidence has been pointing to the fact that leukocytes (white blood cells) are involved in the pathology known as diabetic retinopathy. Another of the dreaded complications of diabetes.
Here the researchers that, indeed, the leukocytes in diabetic patients kill the retinal endothelial cells, the cells lining the blood vessels and lymphatic vessels of the eye. They also found that berberine can inhibit the leukocyte-mediated killing of vascular endothelium. Just a side note; even though this was done on the vessels of the eye, all blood vessels have an endothelial lining, including the heart, a very important organ.
One of the most disturbing problems associated with glucose (sugar) impairment, including diabetes as well as the pre-diabetic syndromes, is the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in females. This is the root cause of many of the fertility issues facing the metabolically challenged young female today, and one we see frequently in our practice.
One of the common medical treatments for PCOS is to treat the glucose impairment problem with metformin, a diabetic drug. In a large number of the cases of PCOS metformin can be effective. In the July, 2013 issue of Clinical Endocrinology researchers found "Berberine has a more pronounced therapeutic effect and achieved more live births with fewer side effects than metformin". It seems that with berberine we have a totally new tool to help these female patients with PCOS.
We at Doctor's Nutrition have been aware of the emerging new benefits of berberine and that was behind our development of our recently released formula Berberine Max. In this formula we provide 500 mg of berberine as well as some co-factors needed for proper utilization and further protection of the diabetic or metabolically challenged patient. These include Folate (as 5-MTHF), grape seed extract, phosphatidylcholine, as well as R-lipoic acid. This makes Berberine Max a great tool in the fight against the revenges of high glucose and diabetes. Clinically, we have seen remarkable reductions in the Hgb A1c of those we have used this formula with. Considering all this new and developing research, we have great expectations for this formula. If you, or someone you know, are dealing with diabetes or metabolic syndrome, you need the protection and help provided in Berberine Max.
Monday, November 4, 2013
New research on the Green-Lipped Muscle (Perna canaliculus)
Osteoarthritis is a common problem that we all face as we grow older. Years of wear and tear and possible trauma to the joint and we have aches and pains that even if they aren't debilitating, they are very aggravating. Maybe just enough to stop us from enjoying a hobby or pastime that we love. If you are experiencing this, we have something that can help reduce some of the discomfort and let you start enjoying life again.
As someone with osteoarthritis you have probably been prescribed anti-inflammatory medication at some point. Perhaps you are one of the lucky ones that do not have G.I. (gastrointestinal) problems due to those NSAIDs, but most likely, you have had to deal with the side effects. Maybe you have tried Glucosamine sulfate that a friend recommended and got some relief. If you have contacted us at Doctor's Nutrition for our recommendation you are probably familiar with our PernaMax. PernaMax is our joint formula using the Green-lipped muscle or Perna canaliculus. Over the past 20 years we have had great results with those suffering with osteoarthritis when they began taking our Perna products.
As mentioned, most prescription therapies for osteoarthritis have G.I. complications. And as you may know, when the G.I. system gets disrupted, there are consequences in other areas. Recent research at the University of Queensland, School of Medicine in Australia found that the Green-lipped muscle and Glucosamine sulfate reduced the symptoms of osteoarthritis and did not cause damage to the G.I. tract. Actually, some positive changes were made, especially in the microbiota profiles; the most notable was a reduction of Clostridia bacteria. Clostridia is a potent modulator of colonic Th17 and CD4+ regulatory cells, known to have the effect of increasing inflammation in the G.I. tract. This in itself would be reason to take Perna canaliculus and Glucosamine sulfate. Hopefully you never have to deal with a Clostridia overgrowth in the G.I. tract, however, if you or someone you know has had that to deal with, you know that it is very unpleasant.
As mentioned, we have been using the Perna canaliculus for a long time and have come to refomulate our compound over the years adding extra Glucosamine sulfate to the formula. We also have added Boswellia for its anti-inflammatory effects as well. This makes PernaMax an excellent formula for the reduction of those pesky osteoarthritis symptoms as well as something that can help protect the gut. That is a win win situation.
If you or someone you know suffers with osteoarthritis symptoms, give us a call and try PernaMax. It just may change your life, and that is what we are all about, living healthy and being healthy.
As someone with osteoarthritis you have probably been prescribed anti-inflammatory medication at some point. Perhaps you are one of the lucky ones that do not have G.I. (gastrointestinal) problems due to those NSAIDs, but most likely, you have had to deal with the side effects. Maybe you have tried Glucosamine sulfate that a friend recommended and got some relief. If you have contacted us at Doctor's Nutrition for our recommendation you are probably familiar with our PernaMax. PernaMax is our joint formula using the Green-lipped muscle or Perna canaliculus. Over the past 20 years we have had great results with those suffering with osteoarthritis when they began taking our Perna products.
As mentioned, most prescription therapies for osteoarthritis have G.I. complications. And as you may know, when the G.I. system gets disrupted, there are consequences in other areas. Recent research at the University of Queensland, School of Medicine in Australia found that the Green-lipped muscle and Glucosamine sulfate reduced the symptoms of osteoarthritis and did not cause damage to the G.I. tract. Actually, some positive changes were made, especially in the microbiota profiles; the most notable was a reduction of Clostridia bacteria. Clostridia is a potent modulator of colonic Th17 and CD4+ regulatory cells, known to have the effect of increasing inflammation in the G.I. tract. This in itself would be reason to take Perna canaliculus and Glucosamine sulfate. Hopefully you never have to deal with a Clostridia overgrowth in the G.I. tract, however, if you or someone you know has had that to deal with, you know that it is very unpleasant.
As mentioned, we have been using the Perna canaliculus for a long time and have come to refomulate our compound over the years adding extra Glucosamine sulfate to the formula. We also have added Boswellia for its anti-inflammatory effects as well. This makes PernaMax an excellent formula for the reduction of those pesky osteoarthritis symptoms as well as something that can help protect the gut. That is a win win situation.
If you or someone you know suffers with osteoarthritis symptoms, give us a call and try PernaMax. It just may change your life, and that is what we are all about, living healthy and being healthy.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Salmon, farm raised or wild caught?
Is that salmon you are eating farm raised or wild caught? Why should you care? Well, there are some serious concerns about the farm raised salmon.
Dr. Anne-Lise Birch Monsen of the University of Bergen, Norway, has raised some serious concerns about the high levels of contaminants in farm raised salmon. Wild caught salmon have some of the contaminants as well, thanks to environmental contaminants. But, due to the confinement of the farm raised fish, and the diet they are fed, complete with anti-biotics to keep down disease, they have even more concentrated levels of these contaminants.
Dr. Monsen states: "I do not recommend pregnant women, children or young people eat farmed salmon. It is uncertain in both the amount of toxins salmon contain, and how these drugs affect children, adolescents and pregnant women. The type of contaminants that have been detected in farmed salmon have a negative effect on brain development and is associated with autism, ADD/ADHD and reduced IQ. We also know that they can affect other organ systems in the body's immune system and metabolism." Some pretty strong words indeed.
But I eat salmon for the omega-3 oils, you say! Another Norwegian article reveals that levels of critically important omega-3 reduced by 50% in farmed salmon, compared to wild caught salmon due to the amount of grain, mostly corn, they are fed. Some have even referred to farmed salmon as "swimming corncobs". Yep, that is what they feed the fish, corn products, and mostly GMO corn at that.
And, Norway just lobbied the EU to raise the permissible levels of toxins in the salmon chow, and they got the okay. Wow. Even Russia has banned Norwegian salmon in 2006 due to excessive levels of lead and cadmium.
Make mine Alaskan, please. You see, if your salmon is labeled as Alaskan, it can't be farm raised. The Alaskans are very protective of their salmon and I, for one, am very glad. It is worth the effort to find out where the food that we eat is produced. Your health could depend on it.
Dr. Anne-Lise Birch Monsen of the University of Bergen, Norway, has raised some serious concerns about the high levels of contaminants in farm raised salmon. Wild caught salmon have some of the contaminants as well, thanks to environmental contaminants. But, due to the confinement of the farm raised fish, and the diet they are fed, complete with anti-biotics to keep down disease, they have even more concentrated levels of these contaminants.
Dr. Monsen states: "I do not recommend pregnant women, children or young people eat farmed salmon. It is uncertain in both the amount of toxins salmon contain, and how these drugs affect children, adolescents and pregnant women. The type of contaminants that have been detected in farmed salmon have a negative effect on brain development and is associated with autism, ADD/ADHD and reduced IQ. We also know that they can affect other organ systems in the body's immune system and metabolism." Some pretty strong words indeed.
But I eat salmon for the omega-3 oils, you say! Another Norwegian article reveals that levels of critically important omega-3 reduced by 50% in farmed salmon, compared to wild caught salmon due to the amount of grain, mostly corn, they are fed. Some have even referred to farmed salmon as "swimming corncobs". Yep, that is what they feed the fish, corn products, and mostly GMO corn at that.
And, Norway just lobbied the EU to raise the permissible levels of toxins in the salmon chow, and they got the okay. Wow. Even Russia has banned Norwegian salmon in 2006 due to excessive levels of lead and cadmium.
Make mine Alaskan, please. You see, if your salmon is labeled as Alaskan, it can't be farm raised. The Alaskans are very protective of their salmon and I, for one, am very glad. It is worth the effort to find out where the food that we eat is produced. Your health could depend on it.
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Obesity is now a disease!
It is now official, Obesity is a disease according to the AMA. That is this week, last week it was caffeine withdrawal is now a mental disorder. So, what is next?
Seriously, the AMA has now classified obesity as a disease. That opens the doors for 78 million adults and 12 million children to be covered by insurance plans. The bad thing is, the AMA, and medicine in general, has a very poor record for treating obesity. Sure, we have surgical weight loss procedures, but even they don't have great success. I can't count he number of people that I have dealt with that lost weight and then gained it back after their surgery.
Can you imagine what this is going to do to the already overloaded medical system? And, what is the insurance industry going to do with an additional 90 million folks that they have to cover? I would bet that all our premiums are headed North.
As some of you may know we have been involved in a 40 plus year experiment with the low fat, high carb diet. And now a full one third of the population in America is obese. Maybe it is just me, but after 40 plus years, can't we recognize failure when we see it? At this point I always bring up the meaning of insanity; keep doing the same thing over and over and expect a different outcome. And that is exactly what we have done for the past 40 years.
There is some very convincing evidence that with some serious dietary changes we can reverse this trend. At the same time we can also get rid of the many gastrointestinal disorders plaguing America.
No, it is much easier to just 'reclassify' this problem to a disease state rather than what it really is, making bad dietary choices.
P.S.
If you think caffeine withdrawal is bad, just wait until you try getting away from sugar! You just might be mental after that. :-)
Seriously, the AMA has now classified obesity as a disease. That opens the doors for 78 million adults and 12 million children to be covered by insurance plans. The bad thing is, the AMA, and medicine in general, has a very poor record for treating obesity. Sure, we have surgical weight loss procedures, but even they don't have great success. I can't count he number of people that I have dealt with that lost weight and then gained it back after their surgery.
Can you imagine what this is going to do to the already overloaded medical system? And, what is the insurance industry going to do with an additional 90 million folks that they have to cover? I would bet that all our premiums are headed North.
As some of you may know we have been involved in a 40 plus year experiment with the low fat, high carb diet. And now a full one third of the population in America is obese. Maybe it is just me, but after 40 plus years, can't we recognize failure when we see it? At this point I always bring up the meaning of insanity; keep doing the same thing over and over and expect a different outcome. And that is exactly what we have done for the past 40 years.
There is some very convincing evidence that with some serious dietary changes we can reverse this trend. At the same time we can also get rid of the many gastrointestinal disorders plaguing America.
No, it is much easier to just 'reclassify' this problem to a disease state rather than what it really is, making bad dietary choices.
P.S.
If you think caffeine withdrawal is bad, just wait until you try getting away from sugar! You just might be mental after that. :-)
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
Vegetarian diet tied to fewer deaths over time...
A new study just published in JAMA Internal Medicine ( http://www.bit.ly/MbBLb9 ) shows that people who limit how much meat they eat and stick mainly to mostly fruits and vegetables are less likely to die over a period of time.
Another study from Europe found that British vegetarians were just as likely to die at any point as the meat eaters. Hmmmmm, is there more to this than meats the eye, (pun intended)? More questions than answers perhaps? We will get to that a little later.
The recent study used data from 73,308 people recruited at U.S. and Canadian Sevent-day Advventist churches between 2002 and 2007.
The participants were asked about their dietary choices and eating habits then seperated into categories. 8% were vegans, no animal products, 29% were lacto-ovo-vegetarians who don't eat fish or other meats but do eat dairy and egg products. The rest of the participants were meat eaters.
The researchers found seven people died of any cause per 1,000 in the meat eating group over a year compared to approximately five to six deaths per year for vegetarians in the same time period. Not a huge difference, but a difference non the less.
It seemed that men benefited the most from the plant based diet. Again, Hmmmmm.
Now we have to ask : Is it the meat or things in the meats that is causing the problem? By things in the meat I mean hormones used in production of livestock here in America or ingredients such as preservatives? Good question, but not one answered in this study. Obviously more studies needed.
No doubt that anyone that eats more vegetables and fruits is better off than one that eats packaged, processed foods, including processed meats. Could it be the added fiber in the veggies and fruits? There have been other studies that show that the added fiber helps with blood sugar regulation and gut health. And we must remember that the gut holds somewhere between 70% to 80 % of the immune system, and since we are looking at total deaths, there may be another connecting link not included in this study.
Also, what was the overall health status and family history of the participants? All this would have to be taken into consideration to fully evaluate the effectiveness of the diet.
Hopefully, in the future, this will be more rigorously investigated. In the mean time, eat more vegetables and fruits, and if you are going to eat meats, make sure the meats are hormone free or organic. For fish, make sure they are 'wild caught' so as to avoid the contaminants of factory farming of fish that is highly suspect as to safety.The lack of hormones and increased fiber will do you good.
Another study from Europe found that British vegetarians were just as likely to die at any point as the meat eaters. Hmmmmm, is there more to this than meats the eye, (pun intended)? More questions than answers perhaps? We will get to that a little later.
The recent study used data from 73,308 people recruited at U.S. and Canadian Sevent-day Advventist churches between 2002 and 2007.
The participants were asked about their dietary choices and eating habits then seperated into categories. 8% were vegans, no animal products, 29% were lacto-ovo-vegetarians who don't eat fish or other meats but do eat dairy and egg products. The rest of the participants were meat eaters.
The researchers found seven people died of any cause per 1,000 in the meat eating group over a year compared to approximately five to six deaths per year for vegetarians in the same time period. Not a huge difference, but a difference non the less.
It seemed that men benefited the most from the plant based diet. Again, Hmmmmm.
Now we have to ask : Is it the meat or things in the meats that is causing the problem? By things in the meat I mean hormones used in production of livestock here in America or ingredients such as preservatives? Good question, but not one answered in this study. Obviously more studies needed.
No doubt that anyone that eats more vegetables and fruits is better off than one that eats packaged, processed foods, including processed meats. Could it be the added fiber in the veggies and fruits? There have been other studies that show that the added fiber helps with blood sugar regulation and gut health. And we must remember that the gut holds somewhere between 70% to 80 % of the immune system, and since we are looking at total deaths, there may be another connecting link not included in this study.
Also, what was the overall health status and family history of the participants? All this would have to be taken into consideration to fully evaluate the effectiveness of the diet.
Hopefully, in the future, this will be more rigorously investigated. In the mean time, eat more vegetables and fruits, and if you are going to eat meats, make sure the meats are hormone free or organic. For fish, make sure they are 'wild caught' so as to avoid the contaminants of factory farming of fish that is highly suspect as to safety.The lack of hormones and increased fiber will do you good.
Monday, June 3, 2013
FrankenWheat is here......
GMO wheat, or as I call it "FrankenWheat", is here, or I should say in the fields of America. Perhaps you have heard of this discovery, perhaps not. It has not made the mainstream media, and I doubt that it will. Hopefully I will be proven wrong in this case.
It seems that our old friends Monsanto have been experimenting with wheat since 1998. Now, this still unapproved, wheat has made its escape and has been found in the wheat fields of Oregon. Where else is it going to be found, hard to tell since it was planted in experimental crop areas of 15 or more states. What damage can it do? Again, hard to tell since it has never been studied. Maybe that is why the rest of the world is freaking out and banning shipments of U.S. grown wheat. The latest is South Korea which joined with Japan and is stopping imports of our wheat http://tinyurl.com/me8cwog.
Even our FDA, here is the 'official' response:
"WASHINGTON, May 29, 2013 –The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced today that test results of plant samples from an Oregon farm indicate the presence of genetically engineered (GE) glyphosate-resistant wheat plants. Further testing by USDA laboratories indicates the presence of the same GE glyphosate-resistant wheat variety that Monsanto was authorized to field test in 16 states from 1998 to 2005. APHIS launched a formal investigation after being notified by an Oregon State University scientist that initial tests of wheat samples from an Oregon farm indicated the possible presence of GE glyphosate-resistant wheat plants. There are no GE wheat varieties approved for sale or in commercial production in the United States or elsewhere at this time."
From my standpoint it looks like Jeannie is out of the bottle. Question is, what will it do to us? One thing we know for sure it involves and unknown, and unknowns can present with some very unusual and complicated problems. And don't expect your PC (Primary Care) physician to look very hard. Your insurance company has him or her hamstrung.
For these other countries to decline shipments of our wheat does not bode well. Besides the possible health issues that might come of this, the financial hit for our farmers has to be hard. and that is going to hurt us all here in the USA.
What about the health issues? Good question. We now know that Monsanto has been experimenting with this unapproved crop since 1998 there is no telling how much it has invaded our wheat crops. One thing we do know is that G.I. problems have been on the rise in the recent past. How many people do you know that is not taking some med for G.I. problems? The actual number is astounding. In our practice we see in the neighborhood of 7 out of 10 that have G.I. complaints. These complaints may be secondary to other concerns, but they are plentiful.
One of the most common complaints we see is those thinking they are celiac, which is due to gluten handling problems. After testing we find that there are many who are actually celiac, but there are many more that are gluten sensitive. Being sensitive to gluten can be a very problematic with gas, bloating, indigestion, etc. All the more reason to avoid wheat and other grains at all costs, and yes corn is a grain, not a vegetable.
Many times simple dietary changes, like avoiding grains, can alleviate many of the G.I. issues. With this 'FrankenWheat' on the loose there is no way of knowing just how far the ramifications will go. This is the problem with GMO's in that we really don't know what damage they can do. As far back as 2010 there was implications that gluten sensitivity and celiac were linked to psychosis and possibly even schizophrenia http://tinyurl.com/ku9h82a . No wonder these other countries don't want our wheat. We shouldn't eat it as well.
If you follow the links provided and perhaps Google it for further reading, I am sure you will just as concerned as I am. In the mean time, stop all grains. You will be better for it in the long run!
It seems that our old friends Monsanto have been experimenting with wheat since 1998. Now, this still unapproved, wheat has made its escape and has been found in the wheat fields of Oregon. Where else is it going to be found, hard to tell since it was planted in experimental crop areas of 15 or more states. What damage can it do? Again, hard to tell since it has never been studied. Maybe that is why the rest of the world is freaking out and banning shipments of U.S. grown wheat. The latest is South Korea which joined with Japan and is stopping imports of our wheat http://tinyurl.com/me8cwog.
Even our FDA, here is the 'official' response:
"WASHINGTON, May 29, 2013 –The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced today that test results of plant samples from an Oregon farm indicate the presence of genetically engineered (GE) glyphosate-resistant wheat plants. Further testing by USDA laboratories indicates the presence of the same GE glyphosate-resistant wheat variety that Monsanto was authorized to field test in 16 states from 1998 to 2005. APHIS launched a formal investigation after being notified by an Oregon State University scientist that initial tests of wheat samples from an Oregon farm indicated the possible presence of GE glyphosate-resistant wheat plants. There are no GE wheat varieties approved for sale or in commercial production in the United States or elsewhere at this time."
From my standpoint it looks like Jeannie is out of the bottle. Question is, what will it do to us? One thing we know for sure it involves and unknown, and unknowns can present with some very unusual and complicated problems. And don't expect your PC (Primary Care) physician to look very hard. Your insurance company has him or her hamstrung.
For these other countries to decline shipments of our wheat does not bode well. Besides the possible health issues that might come of this, the financial hit for our farmers has to be hard. and that is going to hurt us all here in the USA.
What about the health issues? Good question. We now know that Monsanto has been experimenting with this unapproved crop since 1998 there is no telling how much it has invaded our wheat crops. One thing we do know is that G.I. problems have been on the rise in the recent past. How many people do you know that is not taking some med for G.I. problems? The actual number is astounding. In our practice we see in the neighborhood of 7 out of 10 that have G.I. complaints. These complaints may be secondary to other concerns, but they are plentiful.
One of the most common complaints we see is those thinking they are celiac, which is due to gluten handling problems. After testing we find that there are many who are actually celiac, but there are many more that are gluten sensitive. Being sensitive to gluten can be a very problematic with gas, bloating, indigestion, etc. All the more reason to avoid wheat and other grains at all costs, and yes corn is a grain, not a vegetable.
Many times simple dietary changes, like avoiding grains, can alleviate many of the G.I. issues. With this 'FrankenWheat' on the loose there is no way of knowing just how far the ramifications will go. This is the problem with GMO's in that we really don't know what damage they can do. As far back as 2010 there was implications that gluten sensitivity and celiac were linked to psychosis and possibly even schizophrenia http://tinyurl.com/ku9h82a . No wonder these other countries don't want our wheat. We shouldn't eat it as well.
If you follow the links provided and perhaps Google it for further reading, I am sure you will just as concerned as I am. In the mean time, stop all grains. You will be better for it in the long run!
Thursday, May 30, 2013
Scandel lurking in Obama Care??????
Since the beginning days of the Affordable Care act, aka, Obama Care, we have been told by the administration and their media wizards that it would make health care more affordable and accessible. The reality is not so far.
A recent article from Fox news, http://tinyurl.com/nk7bbox , makes clear that there are some serious issues with the law. We were told by the then speaker of the house, Pelosi, that they had to pass the law so they could find out what was in it. I have yet to find anyone that thought that was a good idea, but obviously our congress and senate went along with the insanity. Now that we are reading it, it isn't reading well at all.
The article points to things like costs, which have gone up, not down. One of the more serious unintended consequences that we at Doctor's Nutrition have noticed is the reduction in what the insurance companies are willing to pay for. We have had many patients come in that have health insurance, and have had for many years, and recently they were told by the insurance company that they would no longer pay for routine testing that had been done in the past. As one lady said, 'that was a shock'.
Also we were told the costs for insurance would go down. Ask yourself this question; have my premiums gone up or down? Up? I thought so. Mine too. And from what we are being told by insurance agents, don't expect anything but upward movement in that area.
So, typical government double speak, and less than what we bargained for.
A recent article from Fox news, http://tinyurl.com/nk7bbox , makes clear that there are some serious issues with the law. We were told by the then speaker of the house, Pelosi, that they had to pass the law so they could find out what was in it. I have yet to find anyone that thought that was a good idea, but obviously our congress and senate went along with the insanity. Now that we are reading it, it isn't reading well at all.
The article points to things like costs, which have gone up, not down. One of the more serious unintended consequences that we at Doctor's Nutrition have noticed is the reduction in what the insurance companies are willing to pay for. We have had many patients come in that have health insurance, and have had for many years, and recently they were told by the insurance company that they would no longer pay for routine testing that had been done in the past. As one lady said, 'that was a shock'.
Also we were told the costs for insurance would go down. Ask yourself this question; have my premiums gone up or down? Up? I thought so. Mine too. And from what we are being told by insurance agents, don't expect anything but upward movement in that area.
So, typical government double speak, and less than what we bargained for.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Berberine Max
Berberine may be something you are not familiar with, but you should be, and now you will be. Berberines have been used in Chinese and Ayruvedic medicine for thousands of years. In that part of the world they haven't forgotten that we were provided with all the natural medicines needed for good health. Unfortunately, here in the West, we have overlooked many great remedies due to our reliance on synthetic medicines.
These Berberines have been used to help with immune problems as well as microbial issues, bacterial and parasitic. Recent research has brought light to its relationship to cardiovascular support due to its ability to support normal homocysteine levels. This is very important now that we know that homocysteine can cause damage to the interior of our blood vessels. So maintaining normal levels can be life prolonging even.
Other recent research has shown that Berberines can help with the dreaded metabolic syndrome which includes insulin resistance that can lead to diabetes. Berberines were shown to increase the insulin receptors on our cells more sensitive so that the insulin can do a better job of getting the glucose into the cells for energy use. It has even been implicated in weight management due to these effects. They even seemed to help metformin, one of the drugs used for diabetes, work better. Again more recent research shows that the Berberines can help lower cholesterol, specifically LDL, and that too can be very good for the heart.
As you can see Berberines are very promising in a lot or areas, and that is why we decided to formulate a new compound using Berberine as the back bone. Since it is so good for the heart and homocysteine levels, we added another great ingredient that can be super beneficial in this area, Quatrefolic®. This is a patented form of folic acid, or 5 Methylhydrofolate (5- MTHF). This happens to be the usable form of folic acid that our body needs to quench or reduce the homocysteine to a harmless compound.
Now that we were compounding something special we decided to add a little R-Lipoic acid, a known super antioxidant. This goes well with the Berberines as they have a natural antioxidant activity all their own. R-Lipoic recycles other antioxidants, both water soluble and fat soluble. That is indeed something special. Recent research has focused on R-Lipoic's support of the LDL cholesterol. Other similar studies suggest it may facilitate HDL, the good cholesterol, synthesis in the liver. Another good thing for sure.
It is a know fact that much research has been done on the benefits of grape seed extract and its ability to provide antioxidant activity as well as protection of the lining of or blood vessels. But, we can take that one more step and increase the bioavailability by combining it with phosphatidylcholine. This makes the extract much more bioavalable. In this case we chose LeucoSelect® Phytosome™ as the best ingredient.
Now we have a great formula that can provide all the benefits of Berberines with added ingredients to make it a super formula. Our philosophy is simple, if you are going to do it, do it right. And in this, case we have it right.
Here is the formula of our Berberine Max:
1 capsule:
Folate as Quatrafolic® 200 mcg
Berberine (as Berberine HCL) 500 mg
LeucoSelect® Phytosome™ Grape seed extract 50 mg
R-Lipoic acid 25 mg
Now we have another tool to help with metabolic syndrome, cardiovascularsupport, cholesterol support, homocysteine support and great antioxidant activity. As always, we are constantly
striving to bring the best formulas to you. So, stay tuned and we will share with you something new very soon!
These Berberines have been used to help with immune problems as well as microbial issues, bacterial and parasitic. Recent research has brought light to its relationship to cardiovascular support due to its ability to support normal homocysteine levels. This is very important now that we know that homocysteine can cause damage to the interior of our blood vessels. So maintaining normal levels can be life prolonging even.
Other recent research has shown that Berberines can help with the dreaded metabolic syndrome which includes insulin resistance that can lead to diabetes. Berberines were shown to increase the insulin receptors on our cells more sensitive so that the insulin can do a better job of getting the glucose into the cells for energy use. It has even been implicated in weight management due to these effects. They even seemed to help metformin, one of the drugs used for diabetes, work better. Again more recent research shows that the Berberines can help lower cholesterol, specifically LDL, and that too can be very good for the heart.
As you can see Berberines are very promising in a lot or areas, and that is why we decided to formulate a new compound using Berberine as the back bone. Since it is so good for the heart and homocysteine levels, we added another great ingredient that can be super beneficial in this area, Quatrefolic®. This is a patented form of folic acid, or 5 Methylhydrofolate (5- MTHF). This happens to be the usable form of folic acid that our body needs to quench or reduce the homocysteine to a harmless compound.
Now that we were compounding something special we decided to add a little R-Lipoic acid, a known super antioxidant. This goes well with the Berberines as they have a natural antioxidant activity all their own. R-Lipoic recycles other antioxidants, both water soluble and fat soluble. That is indeed something special. Recent research has focused on R-Lipoic's support of the LDL cholesterol. Other similar studies suggest it may facilitate HDL, the good cholesterol, synthesis in the liver. Another good thing for sure.
It is a know fact that much research has been done on the benefits of grape seed extract and its ability to provide antioxidant activity as well as protection of the lining of or blood vessels. But, we can take that one more step and increase the bioavailability by combining it with phosphatidylcholine. This makes the extract much more bioavalable. In this case we chose LeucoSelect® Phytosome™ as the best ingredient.
Now we have a great formula that can provide all the benefits of Berberines with added ingredients to make it a super formula. Our philosophy is simple, if you are going to do it, do it right. And in this, case we have it right.
Here is the formula of our Berberine Max:
1 capsule:
Folate as Quatrafolic® 200 mcg
Berberine (as Berberine HCL) 500 mg
LeucoSelect® Phytosome™ Grape seed extract 50 mg
R-Lipoic acid 25 mg
Now we have another tool to help with metabolic syndrome, cardiovascularsupport, cholesterol support, homocysteine support and great antioxidant activity. As always, we are constantly
striving to bring the best formulas to you. So, stay tuned and we will share with you something new very soon!
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Super-Oxy-Pro
Super-Oxy-Pro
We have had many requests for an all-around antioxidant formula. You spoke and we listened. Here is our new formula, Super-Oxy-Pro. It combines several antioxidants as well as some herbs for stress handling, and all in a convenient capsule formula.
One Capsule contains:
Milk Thistle seed extract.......300 mg (helps keep the liver humming along and provides antioxidants)
Bacopa monnieri Leaf extract.....175 mg ( helps the brain function better as well as handle stress and
even helps hte thyroid work better)
Ashwaghanda Root extract....175 m,g ( an adaptogenic herb that has been used for over 4,000 years.
Helps us adapt to stress as well as improve our immune function and memory )
Green Tea leaf extract.....100 mg ( great antioxidant, and even helps with energy at a cellular level )
Turmeric Root extract....100 mg ( great antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory. Promotes proper detoxification )
Resveratrol.......10 mg ( Great antioxidant and helps in cardio {heart} protection. It can even help in proper fatty acid metabolism )
As you can tell here we have a great all around antioxidant and stress management formula. For more information on this or any of our formulas, give us a call so we can discuss your personal needs. 1-800-824-0194............we're waiting....
We have had many requests for an all-around antioxidant formula. You spoke and we listened. Here is our new formula, Super-Oxy-Pro. It combines several antioxidants as well as some herbs for stress handling, and all in a convenient capsule formula.
One Capsule contains:
Milk Thistle seed extract.......300 mg (helps keep the liver humming along and provides antioxidants)
Bacopa monnieri Leaf extract.....175 mg ( helps the brain function better as well as handle stress and
even helps hte thyroid work better)
Ashwaghanda Root extract....175 m,g ( an adaptogenic herb that has been used for over 4,000 years.
Helps us adapt to stress as well as improve our immune function and memory )
Green Tea leaf extract.....100 mg ( great antioxidant, and even helps with energy at a cellular level )
Turmeric Root extract....100 mg ( great antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory. Promotes proper detoxification )
Resveratrol.......10 mg ( Great antioxidant and helps in cardio {heart} protection. It can even help in proper fatty acid metabolism )
As you can tell here we have a great all around antioxidant and stress management formula. For more information on this or any of our formulas, give us a call so we can discuss your personal needs. 1-800-824-0194............we're waiting....
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Trust in food supply?
Can we trust our food supply? Honestly, NO! That is unless you grow your own.
A recent warning from the Organic Consumers Association is a case in point. Santa Cruz Organic, which is owned by Smuckers, the jelly folks, was recently asked about their stance on GMO's. What they said is very interesting. "Due to the expanded use of biotechnology by farmers and the commingling of ingredients in storage and shipment, it is possible that some of our products may contain ingredients derived from biotechnology". Did I read that right? Their products may contain ingredients from GMO's? Wow!
So, as a consumer what are we supposed to do? The Internet, that dreaded Internet, has some very good resources for us. One is the above mentioned group, Organic Consumers Association, and another is The Environmental Working Group. A Google search will take you to these organizations that their sole purpose is to help us, the consumer, know more about what we consume. I highly recommend taking a tour of both.
On a more local approach I suggest looking for local farmers that are into organic farming. Ask questions of that farmer to make sure he or she truly understands your goals, less chemicals in your food. I was at a local garden show a few years ago and ran into a vendor selling "organic fertilizer". Upon questioning about the sources for the materials they were using I was astounded to find out the were using chicken liter, poop and wood shavings, from some of the large corporate chicken farmers. Upon further questioning the vendor realized where I was going in my questioning and quickly added that they were sure the chemicals used in the feeding process had biodegraded before they used. Really? Have you done the chemical analysis to prove that? The answer might surprise you, it was no. Ask questions. Then ask more.
If you have the available space, as in yard or acreage, starting to produce your own is a great opportunity. You are in control of what goes into your food production. It makes for a great hobby and very rewarding. The health benefits are one thing, but the improved taste of your veggies, etc. make it worth the effort.
The enduring question that you might have is; can I trust Big Agra? Probably not. The above excerpt about Santa Cruz is a good example. Most of the large corporate agribusinesses are more interested in the bottom line than your health. Small, mom and pop, businesses are best. They are usually very passionate about health and healthy production methods. Support them when possible.
Nothing can beat your personal involvement in living healthy and being healthy. And knowing what you are putting in your body is step one. Stay tuned and I will try to help you stay informed on ways to live healthy and be healthy.
You can listen to our radio show live on Saturday mornings at 104.9 FM from 9 am til 10 am. My promise is that you will learn something helpful and be informed.
Dr. Jim
A recent warning from the Organic Consumers Association is a case in point. Santa Cruz Organic, which is owned by Smuckers, the jelly folks, was recently asked about their stance on GMO's. What they said is very interesting. "Due to the expanded use of biotechnology by farmers and the commingling of ingredients in storage and shipment, it is possible that some of our products may contain ingredients derived from biotechnology". Did I read that right? Their products may contain ingredients from GMO's? Wow!
So, as a consumer what are we supposed to do? The Internet, that dreaded Internet, has some very good resources for us. One is the above mentioned group, Organic Consumers Association, and another is The Environmental Working Group. A Google search will take you to these organizations that their sole purpose is to help us, the consumer, know more about what we consume. I highly recommend taking a tour of both.
On a more local approach I suggest looking for local farmers that are into organic farming. Ask questions of that farmer to make sure he or she truly understands your goals, less chemicals in your food. I was at a local garden show a few years ago and ran into a vendor selling "organic fertilizer". Upon questioning about the sources for the materials they were using I was astounded to find out the were using chicken liter, poop and wood shavings, from some of the large corporate chicken farmers. Upon further questioning the vendor realized where I was going in my questioning and quickly added that they were sure the chemicals used in the feeding process had biodegraded before they used. Really? Have you done the chemical analysis to prove that? The answer might surprise you, it was no. Ask questions. Then ask more.
If you have the available space, as in yard or acreage, starting to produce your own is a great opportunity. You are in control of what goes into your food production. It makes for a great hobby and very rewarding. The health benefits are one thing, but the improved taste of your veggies, etc. make it worth the effort.
The enduring question that you might have is; can I trust Big Agra? Probably not. The above excerpt about Santa Cruz is a good example. Most of the large corporate agribusinesses are more interested in the bottom line than your health. Small, mom and pop, businesses are best. They are usually very passionate about health and healthy production methods. Support them when possible.
Nothing can beat your personal involvement in living healthy and being healthy. And knowing what you are putting in your body is step one. Stay tuned and I will try to help you stay informed on ways to live healthy and be healthy.
You can listen to our radio show live on Saturday mornings at 104.9 FM from 9 am til 10 am. My promise is that you will learn something helpful and be informed.
Dr. Jim
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Alpha Lipoic acid & Type 2 Diabetes
Alpha Lipoic acid & Type 2 Diabetes
Alpha Lipoic acid (ALA) has long been known to be effective as an antioxidant, and there has been some very interesting research with it pertaining to the type 2 diabetic patient. Much of the research has demonstrated the effectiveness of Lipoic acid's ability to protect the diabetic patient from the ravenges of high glucose levels. This is due to the fact that high levels of glucose produce high levels of oxidative stress which can damage tissues.
Alpha Lipoic acid is unique in that it can quench both fat soluble and water soluble oxidative ions. Most other antioxidants work on one or the other, but not both. Over the years we have recommended Lipoic acid for those who only want to take one antioxidant. Lipoic acid covers both fats or lipids as well as the water soluble O2 radicals.
In the latest study on Lipoic acid, as published in Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition, patients were evaluated for glucose status and oxidative markers. These included fasting glucose, Hgb A1c, and other markers. The patients were given randomly assigned doses of ALA ranging fro 300 mg/day to 1200 mg/day. The researchers observed beneficial results on glucose levels as well as oxidative stress levels in a dose dependant progression. Only slight side effects were observed in the higher doses.
So, if you are a type 2 diabetic or have been told you are insulin resistant, pre-diabetic state, you can benefit form taking ALA. One thing to note if you decide to take ALA, if you take it for a prolonged time you will want to also take biotin as the ALA will interfere with your ability to absorb and utilize biotin, which is a very necessary nutrient for the hair, skin and nails.
Something else to be aware of with Lipoic acid is the different forms. The most common form you will encounter is the alpha form. There is also the R or reduced form. Research has demonstrated that the R form is more beneficial for the neuropathies due to diabetes. Clinically we have seen some very good results with helping the neuopathies with the R Lipoic acid. The alpha form has been effective in the management of glucose and HgbA1c levels.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Gut Microbes & Health
Gut microbes, or more commonly known as probiotics, are a very diverse group of microorganisms that reside in our intestines. It is estimated that between 10 to 14 trillion organisms reside there. Until recently it was mostly a realm of the alternative medicine world, and did not get any respect form mainstream medicine.
We in the alternative medicine camp have advocated strong support for the probiotic content for many years. Emerging science has proven that we were correct in our quest to keep the gut healthy via probiotics or friendly bacteria. Recently there has been much interest in the gut microbes and their link to our immune systems. Research shows that approximately 70% of our immune function resides in our gut via these remarkable creatures that coexist within us.
One of the emerging problems that our gut has in keeping a good quantity of these beneficial bacteria is the over use of antibiotics and the increasing use of antibiotics in the food supply. And, then there is the hygiene hypothesis. In the hygiene hypothesis researchers are led to believe that we are too clean. Lets explore both of these.
It is common knowledge that there is a problem with overuse of antibiotics and the growing number of resistant pathogenic bacteria. Americans, as well as other countries, are running to the doctor and demanding antibiotics at the first sign of even the common cold. Once the patient takes the antibiotic they fail to reestablish the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This leaves them more prone to further infections due to an improper functioning immune system. It is imperative to reestablish good or friendly bacteria back in the gut to have a properly immune function. Also, these good bacteria aid us in our digestive process as well. Without them there are many foods that we cannot properly digest, so we don't get the 'good' out of what we eat.
Next we have the overuse of antibiotics in the food supply. It is common practice to feed animals antibiotics to encourage faster growth and keep down infections due to overcrowding. This is why it is important to buy meats that are marked "grown without antibiotics". These antibiotics, even in trace amounts, can destroy our 'good' bacteria and adversely effect our immune system.
Now we come to the hygiene hypothesis. what is meant here is that we are to paranoid about cleanliness, use too many hand sanitizers, etc., and therefore do not get any beneficial microbes that we normally would. Now, for sure, we are not advocating not ever washing hands, etc. That would be folly that would not be beneficial. Lots of 'bad' or pathogenic organisms can be passed into our bodies without proper cleaning in the kitchen when preparing meats, etc. This is a normal pathway for beneficial bacteria to enter our bodies, via foods that we eat.
As I stated there is increased activity in this area and much research is emerging that point to the many benefits of proper microbes content in our guts. This is why alternative practitioners have advocated taking a probiotic formula, one with diverse content, to maintain proper immune function and overall health for many years. Now it is coming to the mainstream and hopefully more will take advantage of this new knowledge and increase their health one step at a time.
We in the alternative medicine camp have advocated strong support for the probiotic content for many years. Emerging science has proven that we were correct in our quest to keep the gut healthy via probiotics or friendly bacteria. Recently there has been much interest in the gut microbes and their link to our immune systems. Research shows that approximately 70% of our immune function resides in our gut via these remarkable creatures that coexist within us.
One of the emerging problems that our gut has in keeping a good quantity of these beneficial bacteria is the over use of antibiotics and the increasing use of antibiotics in the food supply. And, then there is the hygiene hypothesis. In the hygiene hypothesis researchers are led to believe that we are too clean. Lets explore both of these.
It is common knowledge that there is a problem with overuse of antibiotics and the growing number of resistant pathogenic bacteria. Americans, as well as other countries, are running to the doctor and demanding antibiotics at the first sign of even the common cold. Once the patient takes the antibiotic they fail to reestablish the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This leaves them more prone to further infections due to an improper functioning immune system. It is imperative to reestablish good or friendly bacteria back in the gut to have a properly immune function. Also, these good bacteria aid us in our digestive process as well. Without them there are many foods that we cannot properly digest, so we don't get the 'good' out of what we eat.
Next we have the overuse of antibiotics in the food supply. It is common practice to feed animals antibiotics to encourage faster growth and keep down infections due to overcrowding. This is why it is important to buy meats that are marked "grown without antibiotics". These antibiotics, even in trace amounts, can destroy our 'good' bacteria and adversely effect our immune system.
Now we come to the hygiene hypothesis. what is meant here is that we are to paranoid about cleanliness, use too many hand sanitizers, etc., and therefore do not get any beneficial microbes that we normally would. Now, for sure, we are not advocating not ever washing hands, etc. That would be folly that would not be beneficial. Lots of 'bad' or pathogenic organisms can be passed into our bodies without proper cleaning in the kitchen when preparing meats, etc. This is a normal pathway for beneficial bacteria to enter our bodies, via foods that we eat.
As I stated there is increased activity in this area and much research is emerging that point to the many benefits of proper microbes content in our guts. This is why alternative practitioners have advocated taking a probiotic formula, one with diverse content, to maintain proper immune function and overall health for many years. Now it is coming to the mainstream and hopefully more will take advantage of this new knowledge and increase their health one step at a time.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Juice anyone? Really?
By now everyone has probably seen the latest trouble that Tropicana has gotten into with their orange juice. It didn't surprise any of us here at Doctor's Nutrition since we have been on the 'all natural only' band wagon for more years than I like to think about. Seems that it is not 'fresh' after all. And after they alter it with so much heat, it doesn't taste like orange juice, but they put in an flavoring agent so that it tastes like OJ again. Whew, makes you dizzy just trying to keep up.
We, it seems that the OJ thing is just the latest 'bad press' Tropicana has had to deal with. Recently the Center in the Science for Public Interest (CSPI) just put out info that Tropicana Twister Cherry Berry Blast contains 0 % cherry or berry juice. Oh, but is does have some neat dyes to make it look pretty, like Red 40. Red 40 dye has been linked to things like hyperactivity, ADD, ADHD, etc. Just what we want to feed the kids for sure.
The CSPI folks didn't want to leave out anyone, so they let the cat out of the bag about Betty Crocker and General Mills also. Seems that in the Betty Crocker Carrot Cake Mix is actually carrot free! It does have "carrot flavored pieces" though. Those 'pieces' are made of corn syrup, flour, corn cereal, partially hydrogenated cottonseed or soybean oil (think bad fats here) as well as Yellow 6 and Red 40. Most likely all from genetically modified organisms (GMO).
We have to ask, why do these large food companies ( I use the term loosely, not sure you could call it food) do such? PROFITS! It is cheaper to put in artificial ingredients than use 'real food'.
Interesting side bar here, California is proposing an amendment to the ballot next year requiring food companies to have to put on the label any and all GMO ingredients. An executive of a seed company owned by Monsanto once said, "putting the GMO on the label would be like putting a skull and cross bones on the label". I think he was right, who would really want the stuff once you know what is in it?
Don't think it is just juices and cake mixes either. If you read labels you will find dyes and other unwanted items in everything in a can or box. And all these unwanted items are considered OK by the FDA. An item of interest here is the fact that these ingredients have been found to be 'safe' individually, but have never been looked at when combined with each other. No telling what is happening when all the chemicals get mixed together in your body. You can bet it will not lead to great health.
Moral of the story? Read those labels.
Dr. Jim
We, it seems that the OJ thing is just the latest 'bad press' Tropicana has had to deal with. Recently the Center in the Science for Public Interest (CSPI) just put out info that Tropicana Twister Cherry Berry Blast contains 0 % cherry or berry juice. Oh, but is does have some neat dyes to make it look pretty, like Red 40. Red 40 dye has been linked to things like hyperactivity, ADD, ADHD, etc. Just what we want to feed the kids for sure.
The CSPI folks didn't want to leave out anyone, so they let the cat out of the bag about Betty Crocker and General Mills also. Seems that in the Betty Crocker Carrot Cake Mix is actually carrot free! It does have "carrot flavored pieces" though. Those 'pieces' are made of corn syrup, flour, corn cereal, partially hydrogenated cottonseed or soybean oil (think bad fats here) as well as Yellow 6 and Red 40. Most likely all from genetically modified organisms (GMO).
We have to ask, why do these large food companies ( I use the term loosely, not sure you could call it food) do such? PROFITS! It is cheaper to put in artificial ingredients than use 'real food'.
Interesting side bar here, California is proposing an amendment to the ballot next year requiring food companies to have to put on the label any and all GMO ingredients. An executive of a seed company owned by Monsanto once said, "putting the GMO on the label would be like putting a skull and cross bones on the label". I think he was right, who would really want the stuff once you know what is in it?
Don't think it is just juices and cake mixes either. If you read labels you will find dyes and other unwanted items in everything in a can or box. And all these unwanted items are considered OK by the FDA. An item of interest here is the fact that these ingredients have been found to be 'safe' individually, but have never been looked at when combined with each other. No telling what is happening when all the chemicals get mixed together in your body. You can bet it will not lead to great health.
Moral of the story? Read those labels.
Dr. Jim
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Latest on vitamin D
By now, we all should be used to the negative news on various vitamins. Think back just a short time and we can remember the flack about vitamin E. Granted it was an ill conceived statistical nightmare once you got to the guts of the 'research', but it made great evening news. Now we have a similar blurb about vitamin D.
The headline "Vitamin D doesn't prevent heart attack or cancer, study says". Sounds ominous. Let's get in and look around.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, the research states that seniors who are taking vitamin D for bone health, do not decrease their chance of dying of cancer or vascular disease. Wow, doesn't look good for vitamin D, does it. Let's look a little deeper.
In the study group were all over 70 years of age and had bone fractures. They divided the participants into four groups. One group took calcium 1,000mg per day. Another group took vitamin D 800 i.u. per day. The third group took both calcium and vitamin D (that is the group I would have wanted to be in), and yet another group took a placebo pill.
The people in the study took the pills for two to five years and were followed for another three years. So far, so good.
The data showed that the people took vitamin D, 32 out of 100 died, with 33 out of 100 died. Not statistically different. And from this they extrapolated that D did not prevent heart attack or cancer? Wow. What a reach.
There is some very good supporting research that has indicated that vitamin D can and does have beneficial effects in both cardiac and cancer areas. I am of the opinion that if we are going to make broad statements like this about a nutrient, which can cause a lot of concern in the public, we need to have good data to back it up. The public in confused enough already due to 'disinformation' or at best, misleading information. At Doctor's Nutrition we always try to sift through the data and try to find some truth. That you can count on.
Dr. Jim
The headline "Vitamin D doesn't prevent heart attack or cancer, study says". Sounds ominous. Let's get in and look around.
Published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, the research states that seniors who are taking vitamin D for bone health, do not decrease their chance of dying of cancer or vascular disease. Wow, doesn't look good for vitamin D, does it. Let's look a little deeper.
In the study group were all over 70 years of age and had bone fractures. They divided the participants into four groups. One group took calcium 1,000mg per day. Another group took vitamin D 800 i.u. per day. The third group took both calcium and vitamin D (that is the group I would have wanted to be in), and yet another group took a placebo pill.
The people in the study took the pills for two to five years and were followed for another three years. So far, so good.
The data showed that the people took vitamin D, 32 out of 100 died, with 33 out of 100 died. Not statistically different. And from this they extrapolated that D did not prevent heart attack or cancer? Wow. What a reach.
There is some very good supporting research that has indicated that vitamin D can and does have beneficial effects in both cardiac and cancer areas. I am of the opinion that if we are going to make broad statements like this about a nutrient, which can cause a lot of concern in the public, we need to have good data to back it up. The public in confused enough already due to 'disinformation' or at best, misleading information. At Doctor's Nutrition we always try to sift through the data and try to find some truth. That you can count on.
Dr. Jim
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Are there "brands" of Natural Medicine?
"Brands" seems like a weird question, doesn't it? Well, I get asked that question, or a reasonable facsimile, almost on a daily basis. So, is there different "brands" of natural medicine?
When people ask me about what I do, I explain that there are simply different methods of reaching the same results. I don't call it "brands", just different methods.
It seems od at first, but when Dr. Janine and I first contemplated starting Doctor's Nutrition 16 years ago, we did not want to have another cookie cutter clinic and "do" natural medicine. We wanted to have something that was less stress on us as well as less restrictive on access to us. So, we came up with a different model for our business. No appointments! Due to the nature of anything medical in America appointments are usually required. Also, bring your insurance information, etc. Way too much hassle for someone trying to determine why they are sick. So a new "brand" of natural medicine was started.
When we opened the doors of Doctor's Nutrition there was no appointment needed. If we are in the office, we are available, and there is no charge for that consultation. Simple, huh? We also thought that most in the natural medicine arena were making the cost of getting information too expensive. Recently I had a lady in that had been to another office that does an alternative approach and she told me of the costs. The initial consultation was $500 and the doc in question ordered over $1500 of lab work. Of course the insurance did not pay for any of it, all denied. We don't even bother with insurance, we know they will not pay for anything alternative. Sadly, 6 months later this lady was still having problems. Just not a good outcome.
From the above senerio you can see there needs to be an alternative to the standard medical model. It prevents a lot of folks from ever getting heathcare of any kind. And for those wanting to seek alternatives, it gets very expensive because you are going to pay out of pocket.
Therefore a new "brand" of narutal medicine or alternative was born. We strive to keep it simple and less affordable. We often spend a lot of time explaning diet changes, and we don't make money on grocery sales, but it helps a lot of people make better choices. We feel better too. We like helping others.
So, there you have it. Doctor's Nutrition provides an alternative to teh alternative approach to medicine delivery in America. We strive to make healthcare affordable, our basic blood work is $69, which includes CBC, CMP, Thyroid and lipids. No consultation cost and no office visit fees. We are basically your guides or advocates. It is your health and you need to be incharge. We can help.
Dr. Jim
When people ask me about what I do, I explain that there are simply different methods of reaching the same results. I don't call it "brands", just different methods.
It seems od at first, but when Dr. Janine and I first contemplated starting Doctor's Nutrition 16 years ago, we did not want to have another cookie cutter clinic and "do" natural medicine. We wanted to have something that was less stress on us as well as less restrictive on access to us. So, we came up with a different model for our business. No appointments! Due to the nature of anything medical in America appointments are usually required. Also, bring your insurance information, etc. Way too much hassle for someone trying to determine why they are sick. So a new "brand" of natural medicine was started.
When we opened the doors of Doctor's Nutrition there was no appointment needed. If we are in the office, we are available, and there is no charge for that consultation. Simple, huh? We also thought that most in the natural medicine arena were making the cost of getting information too expensive. Recently I had a lady in that had been to another office that does an alternative approach and she told me of the costs. The initial consultation was $500 and the doc in question ordered over $1500 of lab work. Of course the insurance did not pay for any of it, all denied. We don't even bother with insurance, we know they will not pay for anything alternative. Sadly, 6 months later this lady was still having problems. Just not a good outcome.
From the above senerio you can see there needs to be an alternative to the standard medical model. It prevents a lot of folks from ever getting heathcare of any kind. And for those wanting to seek alternatives, it gets very expensive because you are going to pay out of pocket.
Therefore a new "brand" of narutal medicine or alternative was born. We strive to keep it simple and less affordable. We often spend a lot of time explaning diet changes, and we don't make money on grocery sales, but it helps a lot of people make better choices. We feel better too. We like helping others.
So, there you have it. Doctor's Nutrition provides an alternative to teh alternative approach to medicine delivery in America. We strive to make healthcare affordable, our basic blood work is $69, which includes CBC, CMP, Thyroid and lipids. No consultation cost and no office visit fees. We are basically your guides or advocates. It is your health and you need to be incharge. We can help.
Dr. Jim
Monday, October 17, 2011
Multivitamins? Good or bad?
By now everyone has seen or heard the negatives being attributed to taking a multivitamin, it has been all over the news media recently. With this subject you, the consumer, need to do a little investigative work for yourself.
With just a little digging you will see that this coincides with the FDA wanting to make more regulatory changes regarding supplements. As I always suggest; follow the money.
It is always amazing that the media, which is supposed to be investigative reporting at its best (;), can blindly follow what is junk science at best. If you dig into some of the so called research that is being used to portray your multivitamin in a bad light you find that it is indeed lacking. One of the research articles that is used as evidence relates how they, the authors set it up and they used divide subjects, all of which were young college students. Nothing wrong with that you say. Well, as 'they' say, the devil is in the details. Seems that 'they' gave both groups of subjects a placebo. And, this is probably the most curious of all, the researchers concluded that the multivitamin didn't preclude these folks form risky behavior. Really!
All we ask is do a little digging and reading on your own. An informed person is not as easy to dupe. Stay informed.
With just a little digging you will see that this coincides with the FDA wanting to make more regulatory changes regarding supplements. As I always suggest; follow the money.
It is always amazing that the media, which is supposed to be investigative reporting at its best (;), can blindly follow what is junk science at best. If you dig into some of the so called research that is being used to portray your multivitamin in a bad light you find that it is indeed lacking. One of the research articles that is used as evidence relates how they, the authors set it up and they used divide subjects, all of which were young college students. Nothing wrong with that you say. Well, as 'they' say, the devil is in the details. Seems that 'they' gave both groups of subjects a placebo. And, this is probably the most curious of all, the researchers concluded that the multivitamin didn't preclude these folks form risky behavior. Really!
All we ask is do a little digging and reading on your own. An informed person is not as easy to dupe. Stay informed.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Omega 3, is yours safe????
By now everyone has heard the benefits of taking omega 3 fish oils for health, and that is definitely a good thing. However, with everything there can be a down side, even something as good as omega 3 fish oils.
A recent research article published in Food Chem Toxicol. 2010 Nov;48(11):3093-7. Epub 2010 Aug 6 provided data that indicates that we need to be aware of something called 'POPs'. That would be Persistent Organic Pollutants, or POPs.
What are these POPs? Things like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), nasty little compounds, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist compounds. None of which is beneficial to us humans.
One of the most pointed pieces of info in the article was the defining amounts of these compounds in various sources of the omega 3s. Doctor's Nutrition has always been aware of these compounds and have done everything in our power to make sure they are not in our products. The research provided info that one of the highest concentrations of these unwanted compounds was in salmon and tuna oil. Obviously these big fish are higher up the food chain and have more time for concentration of the unwanted pollutants. PCBs ranged from <0.8 to 793 ng g(-1) oil, with salmon- and seal-derived products yielding the highest values.
So where do we get our fish oil? From anchovies, one of the smallest species of fatty fish. Even starting there we make sure it has undergone molecular distillation and is tested to be the lowest possible in all contaminants. We have always discouraged the use of salmon and 'bigger' fish oils. Now you know why!
A recent research article published in Food Chem Toxicol. 2010 Nov;48(11):3093-7. Epub 2010 Aug 6 provided data that indicates that we need to be aware of something called 'POPs'. That would be Persistent Organic Pollutants, or POPs.
What are these POPs? Things like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), nasty little compounds, and aryl hydrocarbon receptor agonist compounds. None of which is beneficial to us humans.
One of the most pointed pieces of info in the article was the defining amounts of these compounds in various sources of the omega 3s. Doctor's Nutrition has always been aware of these compounds and have done everything in our power to make sure they are not in our products. The research provided info that one of the highest concentrations of these unwanted compounds was in salmon and tuna oil. Obviously these big fish are higher up the food chain and have more time for concentration of the unwanted pollutants. PCBs ranged from <0.8 to 793 ng g(-1) oil, with salmon- and seal-derived products yielding the highest values.
So where do we get our fish oil? From anchovies, one of the smallest species of fatty fish. Even starting there we make sure it has undergone molecular distillation and is tested to be the lowest possible in all contaminants. We have always discouraged the use of salmon and 'bigger' fish oils. Now you know why!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Calcium and heart risk?????
For years women have been told to 'take your calcium', it's good for your bones. Now, maybe not so good for the heart? What gives?
Over the years, we in medicine, have told women that taking extra calcium is beneficial for bone health. Those of us that adhere to the natural or holistic approach have advocated more than just calcium. We have always suggested doing more than just taking calcium for bone health. There are many other minerals (magnesium, etc.) sequestered in the bones that are needed for proper bone health and need to be available on a daily basis.
The potential problem that was pointed out in an article in the British Medical Journal in April of 2011 was that taking calcium may increase the risk of heart disease. The authors of the article suggested that we should get calcium from the diet. I agree. The problem is that the diet may not contain adequate calcium. We also have to look at the fact that a lot ( I'm being generous) of the population do not eat enough of the calcium rich foods even if the foods did contain adequate calcium. The authors pointed out that food bound calcium was not implicated in heart problems.
These same authors, in another study, found that there was a 27 to 31 % increase risk of heart attacks in women taking calcium without vitamin D. You would always want to take calcium with vitamin D as it helps absorption of calcium among other things. Vitamin D also helps with the transport of calcium into the bone. At this point I would go further and suggest that women that are concerned about bone health should have their vitamin D status determined through blood test. Once this is done you can supplement vitamin D to maintain proper levels, above 40 ng/dl.
Something else that was not mentioned in the study was vitamin K. Very important this vitamin K and green veggies have lots of K as well as bound calcium. Vitamin K helps metabolise or transport the calcium, and other minerals, into the bone. Certain forms of vitamin K, specifically MK7, a type of K2, in other studies has shown to be able to help remove calcium form plaques in the cardiovascular system.
As you can see there are more things involved to this claim that calcium increase cardiac risk than just taking calcium. At Doctor's Nutrition we are approached daily on this issue of calcium and bone health. We always suggest increasing calcium intake as well as adding both vitamin D and K2 to the daily regimen. Now, let's add some weight bearing exercise and we have the recipe for healthy bones. And never take calcium without vitamin D.
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