Fish oils are weight-reducing and have other healthy benefits such as prevention of fatal and non-fatal arrhythmias, stroke, heart attacks, Alzheimers, depression and as a fringe benefit keeps the skin younger than it years. According to an article published in Lancet, fish oil (Omega 3 fatty acids) stabilized atherosclerotic plaques. Plaque is an accumulation of cells or cell debris that contain lipids (cholesterol and fatty acids), calcium, and a variable amount of fibrous connective tissue. Plaque is an unhealthy condition. Cardiovascular disease is related to plaque in blood vessels.
In half of all first heart attacks, plaque doesn’t block or occlude blood vessels. Plaque, which is inherently unstable, can release fragments that lodge in smaller blood vessels, causing hemorrhaging plus significant and sudden narrowing of the vessel. A clot that forms on top of a leaky plaque may occlude the vessel. Even though it may block 60 percent of the vessel, a stable plaque is not dangerous. By either direct pathologic examination or with assistance of ultrasound, doctors can classify a plaque as being stable (calcified) or unstable (soft).
In a well-designed double-blind clinical trial, a variety of fats were given to 162 patients scheduled to undergo a carotid endarterectomy for advanced arteriosclerosis. One-third of the patients were given Omega 3 fatty acids, another third were given Omega 6 (vegetable oil), and another third were given capsules that contained the mixtures of oils comparable to a typical Western diet. During surgery, sections were taken from the artery and classified by a cardiopathologist as either unstable or stable. The ones who consumed the westernized diet oils or the Omega 6’s had greater than 50 percent more unstable plaques compared to those who were given the Omega 3 fatty acids.
The bottom line is to increase dietary Omega fats by consuming oil bearing fish such as salmon or escolar, and as supplements. Although a capsule may have on the label 1000 or even 1200 mg, the active DHA and EPA may be together only 300mg! So one needs to consume 10 to 20 of them to get a decent dose. Although Krill Oil has been touted to be as good if not better than fish oil, I have found it not nearly as good. Omega 3s are also available in liquids. They are now not only very concentrated but even palatable. Also as noted above sea weed/algae are very high in these healthy oils. After all that is where the fish get theirs. The best Omega 3 is DHA (DexaHexinoic Acid) which is three times more beneficial than EPA (Eicospentoic Acoid). There also is ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid) from flax and primrose. Although classified as an Omega 3, it is a pre Omega 3 and our metabolisim converts it into the active DHA and EPA if it can. Unfortunately, this is only true if we are young (under 25) and healthy.
Eating a high fat or protein diet is certainly better than eating high carbohydrate foods. But watch the type of fat you eat. It is said that eating one pound of hydrogenated fat will allow you to gain one pound since the body needs to dilute this bad fat by holding onto other fat. One pound of saturated fat will give a weight gain of one-quarter pound, but eating one pound of Omega 3s will cause one-quarter pound of weight loss in that it recycles into your cellular membranes and discharges the previous fat residing there for excretion into the bile. Now one can track their Omega 3s by a special red cell fatty acid test offered by Spectracel. This reflects three months of not only consumption but absorption and utilization of this life prolonging/saving nutrient.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Sunday, January 23, 2011
LIVING WATER AND LONGEVITY
Hunza is located in the far northeast of Pakistan, in a remote valley some 200 mi. long but only one mi. wide. It is situated at an elevation of 8,500' and is completely enclosed by mountain peaks including the western end of the Himalayas. The inhabitants, Hunzakuts, have the reputation of being the longest lived people in the world. They eat fresh, mostly raw fruits and vegetables and little meat. Of course there are no pesticides or preservatives in them. However it is generally accepted that the water the hunzas drink plays a major role in their great health and longevity.
This water comes from the melting of glaciers from the nearby mountains. These glaciers are hundreds of thousand of years old and grind the mountainous rock into extremely fine particles. In turn the fine particles of rock are suspended in this water and is called glacial milk because of its cloudy appearance by being so loaded with these minerals. Coming from glacial mountain streams and waterfalls this water carries a negative charge or negative ions and is called “living water.” This results in the water having an oxygen reduction potential and acts as an antioxidant in the body with the ability to neutralize free radicals. Also the negative charge makes minerals easily absorbable. Their crops are also irrigated with this colloidal alkalizing mineral water and thus unlike Western soils, hunza soils are not depleted of minerals.
This living water today can almost be duplicated today by Kangen which is a Japanese word, best translated into English as “Return to Original” which means several things when used to describe water. It is alkaline, ionized, anti-oxidant electron rich, restructured, micro clustered, active hydrogen saturated, and oxidation reduced. Water is first purified, then given an electrical charge to recreate electron rich water. This electrolysis process using a platinum catalyst on a titanium base is first put through a special charcoal filter. It contains the essential minerals and the pH can be set from 2.5 to 11.5, but for drinking purposes 8.5 is the best.
The very alkaline water (pH-11.5) is used in place of damaging chemicals for cleaning and disinfecting around the home especially the bathroom and kitchen. It is an emulsifier and used plain is a fantastic detergent to get the pesticides off fruits and vegtables, remove greasey grime and even to unclog drains. Topically, it can be used as a poultice on inflamed skin. On the other side of the pH, the acid (2.5) is a powerful disinfectant for bacteria, yeast, and viruses. For more information, call 918 636-5455.
This living water today can almost be duplicated today by Kangen which is a Japanese word, best translated into English as “Return to Original” which means several things when used to describe water. It is alkaline, ionized, anti-oxidant electron rich, restructured, micro clustered, active hydrogen saturated, and oxidation reduced. Water is first purified, then given an electrical charge to recreate electron rich water. This electrolysis process using a platinum catalyst on a titanium base is first put through a special charcoal filter. It contains the essential minerals and the pH can be set from 2.5 to 11.5, but for drinking purposes 8.5 is the best.
The very alkaline water (pH-11.5) is used in place of damaging chemicals for cleaning and disinfecting around the home especially the bathroom and kitchen. It is an emulsifier and used plain is a fantastic detergent to get the pesticides off fruits and vegtables, remove greasey grime and even to unclog drains. Topically, it can be used as a poultice on inflamed skin. On the other side of the pH, the acid (2.5) is a powerful disinfectant for bacteria, yeast, and viruses. For more information, call 918 636-5455.
Monday, January 10, 2011
OUR NATURAL DETOXIFICATION
We are exposed to a great number of xenobiotics (foreign compounds) during the course of our lifetime, including a variety of pharmaceuticals and food components. Many of these show little relationship to previously encountered chemicals or metabolites, and yet we are capable of managing environmental exposure by detoxifying them. To accomplish this task, our bodies have evolved a complex operation of detoxification enzymes. But in our toxic world these systems need help. The enzyme systems generally functioned adequately in the past to minimize the potential of damage from xenobiotics, but in our modern civilization, we are being overwhelmed by them. There is an association between impaired detoxification and illness, such as cancer, neurological disease, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue/immune dysfunction syndrome. Therefore, an individual's ability to remove toxins from the body plays a role in the cause or exacerbation of chronic conditions and new diseases. Natural helpers include the sulfuaranes found in crucifer vegetables such as Broccoli and the very best, Broccoli Sprouts.
The following may be difficult to follow and without some education previously into biochemistry, skip to the last paragraph. Our detoxification systems are highly complex and show a great amount of individual variability. These are extremely responsive to a person’s environment, lifestyle, and genetic uniqueness. The liver is the principal organ of detoxification, although all tissue has some ability to metabolize foreign chemicals. The liver is the largest organ, and is the first body part perfused by chemicals absorbed in the gut. Also there are very high concentrations of most metabolizing enzyme systems relative to other tissues. When food or a drug is taken into the GI tract, it is taken apart in the gut. When it is absorbed into our body, it first enters the hepatic (liver) circulation through the portal vein. Here it is metabolized if possible before it can go into the rest of us, and eventually back to the liver again and again. This is the first pass effect. When the altered substance is fat soluble, it is excreted into the bile, then discharged into our intestine only to be reabsorbed again. This process is repeated many times. Therefore, the term, enterohepatic circulation.
Factors that affect the detoxification are age, individual variation (polymorphism), enterohepatic circulation, nutrition, intestinal flora, gender and drugs that person may be taking. Other sites of chemical metabolism/excretion include the gastrointestinal tract, lungs (volatile compounds), kidneys (water soluble molecules), and the skin (both lipid and water soluble chemicals). These sites at times could have localized toxicity reactions. The detoxification systems are complex. They are divided into three interacting parts or phases each of which can engage with itself or any of the other two to work in harmony defending our body from being acutely or slowly poisoned to death. At times it is overwhelmed and we rapidly or slowly die.
The three parts are termed Phases (I, II, and III) of Detoxication. Variation of activities of these can mean the difference between disease (drug adversity, cancer, arthritis, cardiovascular etc.) and health. To add to the complexity, the Phase System is orchestrated by our genetically endowed CYP 450 enzymes that steer or tune them (for better or for worse). The initial P450-mediated oxidation/Phase I metabolism if possible makes the ingested chemicals water soluble to later be eliminated by the kidney. The subsequent joining of the molecule with a lipid- conjugation is "Phase II" and is eliminated through the bile and eventually into our fecal stream. The newly discovered Phase III gets rid of the offending chemical by importing into a cell then exporting out into a storage or excretion system.
The major Cytochrome (CYP) P450 enzymes involved in metabolism of drugs or exogenous toxins are the CYP3A4, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and the CYP2C enzymes. The amount of each of these enzymes present in the liver reflects their importance in endogenous metabolites (hormones etc) and drug metabolism. The'CYP's is a host of enzymes that use iron to oxidize organic molecules, as part of the body's plan to dispose of potentially harmful substances by making them more water-soluble. Adding a hydroxyl group to a xenobiotic is the body's strategy to get rid of the 'drug' and is often followed by joining them to other molecular groups such as glucuronide to increase the solubility even further.
Most of the CYP in man is found in the liver, the main organ involved in drug and toxin removal, but a fair amount is also in the small intestine. CYP usually is found in the 'microsomal' part of the cytoplasm (endoplasmic reticulum). Metabolic clearance of drugs is not the only function of CYP. Recently, it has been found that CYP is involved in vascular autoregulation, particularly in the brain. CYP is involved in the formation of cholesterol, steroids and arachidonic acid metabolites. More on CYP later but let me amplify what I said above.
The Phase I System: The Phase I detoxification system, influenced by the cytochrome P450 supergene family of enzymes, noted above, is generally the first enzymatic defense against foreign compounds. They are nonsynthetic reactions involving oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, cyclization, and decyclization. Most of our unwanted (detrimental) metabolites and pharmaceuticals are metabolized through these Phase I biotransformation of which is then excreted. At times reactive molecules, which sometimes may be more toxic than the parent molecule, are produced. If these reactive molecules are not further metabolized by Phase II conjugation, they cause damage to proteins, RNA, and DNA within the cell.
The Phase II System: Phase II are conjugation reactions which generally follow Phase I activation, resulting in a xenobiotic that has been transformed into a fat-soluble compound that can be excreted through the bile. There are at least four types of conjugation reactions present in the body (glucuronidation, sulfation, glutathione and amino acid), These reactions require cofactors such as minerals and micronutrients which must be replenished through dietary sources.
Phase III System: Recently, antiporter activity has been defined as the Phase III detoxification system. It is an exchanger or counter-transporter on a membrane protein which is involved in active transport of two or more different molecules or ions across a phospholipid membrane in opposite directions. To make it even more complex there is a secondary active transport, one species of solute moves along its electrochemical gradient, allowing a different species to move against its own electrochemical gradient. This is in contrast to primary active transport, in which all solutes are moved against their concentration gradients, fueled by ATP. The antiporter is an energy-dependent efflux pump, which pumps chemical in question out of a cell, thereby decreasing the intracellular concentration of xenobiotics. Antiporter activity in the intestine appears to be co-regulated with intestinal Phase I Cyp enzymes. An example of the “porter” system is Iodide being actively transported into the thyroid.
Cytochrome P 450: Cytochrome P450 enzymes are present in most tissues of the body, and play important roles in hormone synthesis and breakdown (including estrogen and testosterone synthesis and metabolism), cholesterol synthesis, and vitamin D metabolism. Cytochrome P450 enzymes also function to metabolize potentially toxic compounds, including food chemicals, drugs and products of our natural molecules such as bilirubin, principally in the liver but so in our intestine. The Human Genome Project has identified 57 human genes coding for the various cytochrome P450 enzyme
These cytochrome proteins are located either in the inner membrane of mitochondria of our cells. CYPs metabolize thousands of internal and exogenous (food and drugs) chemicals. Some CYPs metabolize only one (or a very few), such as CYP19 (aromatase-turns testosterone to estrogen), while others may metabolize multiple substances. The CYPs are the major enzymes involved in drug metabolism, accounting for about 75% of them. Most drugs undergo deactivation by CYPs, either directly or by assisting excretion from the body. As noted, many substances are bioactivated or inactivated by CYPs. Drugs can also increase or decrease the activity of various CYP isozymes either by inducing the biosynthesis of an enzyme or by directly inhibiting the activity of one. This is a major source of adverse drug interactions, since changes in CYP enzyme activity may affect the metabolism and clearance of various of these chemicals. Naturally occurring compounds may also induce or inhibit CYP activity. For example, a bioactive compound (narragin) found in grapefruit juice inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of statins and calcium blocking antihypertensives, leading to the possibility of overdosing.
So if we cannot keep all the poisons out of our bodies, let us at least aid ourselves with helpers such as the natural inducers of the CYP detoxifiers like the crucifers or the active ingredients in them such as DIM or I3C. It will keep us more out of harm's way if we eat and drink to avoid the known toxins in our food and beverages.
The following may be difficult to follow and without some education previously into biochemistry, skip to the last paragraph. Our detoxification systems are highly complex and show a great amount of individual variability. These are extremely responsive to a person’s environment, lifestyle, and genetic uniqueness. The liver is the principal organ of detoxification, although all tissue has some ability to metabolize foreign chemicals. The liver is the largest organ, and is the first body part perfused by chemicals absorbed in the gut. Also there are very high concentrations of most metabolizing enzyme systems relative to other tissues. When food or a drug is taken into the GI tract, it is taken apart in the gut. When it is absorbed into our body, it first enters the hepatic (liver) circulation through the portal vein. Here it is metabolized if possible before it can go into the rest of us, and eventually back to the liver again and again. This is the first pass effect. When the altered substance is fat soluble, it is excreted into the bile, then discharged into our intestine only to be reabsorbed again. This process is repeated many times. Therefore, the term, enterohepatic circulation.
Factors that affect the detoxification are age, individual variation (polymorphism), enterohepatic circulation, nutrition, intestinal flora, gender and drugs that person may be taking. Other sites of chemical metabolism/excretion include the gastrointestinal tract, lungs (volatile compounds), kidneys (water soluble molecules), and the skin (both lipid and water soluble chemicals). These sites at times could have localized toxicity reactions. The detoxification systems are complex. They are divided into three interacting parts or phases each of which can engage with itself or any of the other two to work in harmony defending our body from being acutely or slowly poisoned to death. At times it is overwhelmed and we rapidly or slowly die.
The three parts are termed Phases (I, II, and III) of Detoxication. Variation of activities of these can mean the difference between disease (drug adversity, cancer, arthritis, cardiovascular etc.) and health. To add to the complexity, the Phase System is orchestrated by our genetically endowed CYP 450 enzymes that steer or tune them (for better or for worse). The initial P450-mediated oxidation/Phase I metabolism if possible makes the ingested chemicals water soluble to later be eliminated by the kidney. The subsequent joining of the molecule with a lipid- conjugation is "Phase II" and is eliminated through the bile and eventually into our fecal stream. The newly discovered Phase III gets rid of the offending chemical by importing into a cell then exporting out into a storage or excretion system.
The major Cytochrome (CYP) P450 enzymes involved in metabolism of drugs or exogenous toxins are the CYP3A4, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and the CYP2C enzymes. The amount of each of these enzymes present in the liver reflects their importance in endogenous metabolites (hormones etc) and drug metabolism. The'CYP's is a host of enzymes that use iron to oxidize organic molecules, as part of the body's plan to dispose of potentially harmful substances by making them more water-soluble. Adding a hydroxyl group to a xenobiotic is the body's strategy to get rid of the 'drug' and is often followed by joining them to other molecular groups such as glucuronide to increase the solubility even further.
Most of the CYP in man is found in the liver, the main organ involved in drug and toxin removal, but a fair amount is also in the small intestine. CYP usually is found in the 'microsomal' part of the cytoplasm (endoplasmic reticulum). Metabolic clearance of drugs is not the only function of CYP. Recently, it has been found that CYP is involved in vascular autoregulation, particularly in the brain. CYP is involved in the formation of cholesterol, steroids and arachidonic acid metabolites. More on CYP later but let me amplify what I said above.
The Phase I System: The Phase I detoxification system, influenced by the cytochrome P450 supergene family of enzymes, noted above, is generally the first enzymatic defense against foreign compounds. They are nonsynthetic reactions involving oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, cyclization, and decyclization. Most of our unwanted (detrimental) metabolites and pharmaceuticals are metabolized through these Phase I biotransformation of which is then excreted. At times reactive molecules, which sometimes may be more toxic than the parent molecule, are produced. If these reactive molecules are not further metabolized by Phase II conjugation, they cause damage to proteins, RNA, and DNA within the cell.
The Phase II System: Phase II are conjugation reactions which generally follow Phase I activation, resulting in a xenobiotic that has been transformed into a fat-soluble compound that can be excreted through the bile. There are at least four types of conjugation reactions present in the body (glucuronidation, sulfation, glutathione and amino acid), These reactions require cofactors such as minerals and micronutrients which must be replenished through dietary sources.
Phase III System: Recently, antiporter activity has been defined as the Phase III detoxification system. It is an exchanger or counter-transporter on a membrane protein which is involved in active transport of two or more different molecules or ions across a phospholipid membrane in opposite directions. To make it even more complex there is a secondary active transport, one species of solute moves along its electrochemical gradient, allowing a different species to move against its own electrochemical gradient. This is in contrast to primary active transport, in which all solutes are moved against their concentration gradients, fueled by ATP. The antiporter is an energy-dependent efflux pump, which pumps chemical in question out of a cell, thereby decreasing the intracellular concentration of xenobiotics. Antiporter activity in the intestine appears to be co-regulated with intestinal Phase I Cyp enzymes. An example of the “porter” system is Iodide being actively transported into the thyroid.
Cytochrome P 450: Cytochrome P450 enzymes are present in most tissues of the body, and play important roles in hormone synthesis and breakdown (including estrogen and testosterone synthesis and metabolism), cholesterol synthesis, and vitamin D metabolism. Cytochrome P450 enzymes also function to metabolize potentially toxic compounds, including food chemicals, drugs and products of our natural molecules such as bilirubin, principally in the liver but so in our intestine. The Human Genome Project has identified 57 human genes coding for the various cytochrome P450 enzyme
These cytochrome proteins are located either in the inner membrane of mitochondria of our cells. CYPs metabolize thousands of internal and exogenous (food and drugs) chemicals. Some CYPs metabolize only one (or a very few), such as CYP19 (aromatase-turns testosterone to estrogen), while others may metabolize multiple substances. The CYPs are the major enzymes involved in drug metabolism, accounting for about 75% of them. Most drugs undergo deactivation by CYPs, either directly or by assisting excretion from the body. As noted, many substances are bioactivated or inactivated by CYPs. Drugs can also increase or decrease the activity of various CYP isozymes either by inducing the biosynthesis of an enzyme or by directly inhibiting the activity of one. This is a major source of adverse drug interactions, since changes in CYP enzyme activity may affect the metabolism and clearance of various of these chemicals. Naturally occurring compounds may also induce or inhibit CYP activity. For example, a bioactive compound (narragin) found in grapefruit juice inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of statins and calcium blocking antihypertensives, leading to the possibility of overdosing.
So if we cannot keep all the poisons out of our bodies, let us at least aid ourselves with helpers such as the natural inducers of the CYP detoxifiers like the crucifers or the active ingredients in them such as DIM or I3C. It will keep us more out of harm's way if we eat and drink to avoid the known toxins in our food and beverages.
Friday, December 31, 2010
NO DOUBT THIS SPROUT HAS CLOUT!!!!
Make yourself a New Years Resolution. Don’t be a Lout eat THIS Sprout. Edible sprouts are germinated plant seeds. They are usually produced by soaking the seeds at regular intervals over a 4-10 day interval. Broccoli sprouts are highly nutritious with magnesium, chlorophyll and rich in enzymes and electrons which promote good health as mitochondrial enhancer and antioxidandants. Studies of compounds in broccoli sprouts have been shown to reduce the risk of prostate, breast, liver, stomach, bladder and colon cancer and to act as an anti-bacterial agent against Helicobacter pylori, an organism associated with causing duodenal ulcers. Also broccoli sprouts decreases the risk of stroke, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease as well as osteoarthritis.
Research has shown that broccoli sprouts are rich in glucoraphanin, a compound that when eaten is converted in our body into Sulforaphane ((sul-FOR-a-fane) glucosinolate, which is a “phase II inducer”. In 1997, Paul Talalay, Ph.D who founded the Brassica Chemoprotection Laboratory, at Johns Hopkins identified chemo protective nutrients and finding ways to maximize their effect. Also in a study funded by the British Heart Foundation discovered sulforaphane could "switch on" a protective protein which is inactive in parts of the arteries vulnerable to plaque formation. Scientists already know that arteries don't clog up in a uniform way, but that there are bends and branches of blood vessels in which blood flow is disrupted (turbulance) and are much more prone to the build-up of fatty plaques that cause heart disease. In the more vulnerable areas, a normally protective protein known as Nrf2 is inactive. Sulforaphane protects those regions by switching on the Nrf2.
Brassica is a plant in the genus of the mustard family, and includes in addition to broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, cauliflower and turnips. Three-day-old broccoli sprouts contained more than a 40 times higher concentration of the protective molecule than mature broccoli. In Addition cooking destroys three quarters of the active compound. Eating a few tablespoons of the sprouts daily can supply the same degree of cancer and vascular protection as 20 pounds cooked broccoli eaten weekly.
Broccoli sprouts can be frequently obtained at Health Food stores or in concentrated juices or capsules, but they may not be as good as producing this fantastic food yourself and eating them fresh. The seed and sprouting trays are easily obtained and the growing initiated by soaking 4 tablespoons in a 8 oz jar of water overnight. (about 8 hours). Pour the soaked seeds onto the sprouting tray. These trays and the organic seeds can be purchased at most Health Food Stores and on line such as the Sproutman.com. Cover the tray so the enclosure provides a greenhouse effect. Rinse by showering the seeds with fresh water twice per day. Try not to dislodge the seeds with the force of the rinse water. Allow the seedlings to root themselves into the small holes of the growing tray. Keep the tray away from strong light for the first 4 days, then move to a brighter area, avoiding direct sunlight and heat. In 3 to 4 more days they will be green and ready to harvest. Pluck from the surface to allow the younger sprouts to continue to grow. In the next 3 days, they should all be sprouted. With prayer and luck you should have 2 pounds of health from them. They can be used in cooking and as sauces, they are healthier used as salads or in sandwiches made with Red Cabbage leaves or Kale rather than bread. Do yourself a healthy favor and you will be well rewarded well beyond the minimal work it takes to eat this wonderful delicacy that will add life onto your years and years onto your life!
Research has shown that broccoli sprouts are rich in glucoraphanin, a compound that when eaten is converted in our body into Sulforaphane ((sul-FOR-a-fane) glucosinolate, which is a “phase II inducer”. In 1997, Paul Talalay, Ph.D who founded the Brassica Chemoprotection Laboratory, at Johns Hopkins identified chemo protective nutrients and finding ways to maximize their effect. Also in a study funded by the British Heart Foundation discovered sulforaphane could "switch on" a protective protein which is inactive in parts of the arteries vulnerable to plaque formation. Scientists already know that arteries don't clog up in a uniform way, but that there are bends and branches of blood vessels in which blood flow is disrupted (turbulance) and are much more prone to the build-up of fatty plaques that cause heart disease. In the more vulnerable areas, a normally protective protein known as Nrf2 is inactive. Sulforaphane protects those regions by switching on the Nrf2.
Brassica is a plant in the genus of the mustard family, and includes in addition to broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, kale, cauliflower and turnips. Three-day-old broccoli sprouts contained more than a 40 times higher concentration of the protective molecule than mature broccoli. In Addition cooking destroys three quarters of the active compound. Eating a few tablespoons of the sprouts daily can supply the same degree of cancer and vascular protection as 20 pounds cooked broccoli eaten weekly.
Broccoli sprouts can be frequently obtained at Health Food stores or in concentrated juices or capsules, but they may not be as good as producing this fantastic food yourself and eating them fresh. The seed and sprouting trays are easily obtained and the growing initiated by soaking 4 tablespoons in a 8 oz jar of water overnight. (about 8 hours). Pour the soaked seeds onto the sprouting tray. These trays and the organic seeds can be purchased at most Health Food Stores and on line such as the Sproutman.com. Cover the tray so the enclosure provides a greenhouse effect. Rinse by showering the seeds with fresh water twice per day. Try not to dislodge the seeds with the force of the rinse water. Allow the seedlings to root themselves into the small holes of the growing tray. Keep the tray away from strong light for the first 4 days, then move to a brighter area, avoiding direct sunlight and heat. In 3 to 4 more days they will be green and ready to harvest. Pluck from the surface to allow the younger sprouts to continue to grow. In the next 3 days, they should all be sprouted. With prayer and luck you should have 2 pounds of health from them. They can be used in cooking and as sauces, they are healthier used as salads or in sandwiches made with Red Cabbage leaves or Kale rather than bread. Do yourself a healthy favor and you will be well rewarded well beyond the minimal work it takes to eat this wonderful delicacy that will add life onto your years and years onto your life!
Monday, December 27, 2010
MICRONUTIENTS GIVE MACRO HEALTH
Micronutrient deficiencies (vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, metabolites) contribute to a broad range of both minor and serious health conditions. Identifying and correcting them is an important component of management and/or treatment of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, osteoporosis, chronic fatigue and other so called chronic degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. The Journal of the American Medical Association, (Volume 287, 3116-3129, 2002), Vitamins For Chronic Disease Prevention in Adults, states, “although clinical syndromes of vitamin deficiencies are unusual in Western societies, suboptimal status is not. There are many serum nutritional tests but they only measure static quantities of vitamins and minerals present in serum, such as magnesium or B 12 reflecting dietary intake and what can not get into our cells rather than the true cellular content and function. But there is a test that can assess long-term intracellular requirements using each patient’s own lymphocytes. Under a variety of nutrient depletion conditions, scientists can now measure the growth response of these cells to something called mitogenic stimulation. This determines intracellular deficiencies, which might not be detected by standard serum tests giving us a true window on Intracellular Function.
In 1949 Dr. Roger Williams, who previously discovered five vitamins, coined the word Genetotrophic disease which means having both genetic (geneto) and nutritional (trophic) roots. Later (1956) he published the book Biochemical Individuality: The Basis for the Genetotrophic Concept. William Shive, Ph.D., who was chairman of the department of biochemistry and a researcher in the field of nutrition at the University of Texas, began work on a diagnostic test for clinicians in 1978. His work was strongly influenced by Williams. Dr. Shive first identified appropriate cells for the functional assays. He selected lymphocyte cells because they are simple to collect (via venipuncture), easily isolated from other whole blood components, and maintainable in culture for days to weeks.
These harvested lymphocytes are in a resting state in terms of cell division. Since they have a 4 to 6 month lifespan, the nutrient levels accumulated in these lymphocytes represent a history of an individual's nutrient status. This is analogous to using HbA1c measurements to approximate a diabetic person's glucose levels over the preceding 3 months. Thus, lymphocytes provide a history rather than a snapshot of nutrient intake. Resting lymphocytes can be stimulated by a lymphocyte-specific mitogen to undergo cell division and grow in culture. The degree of growth that the lymphocytes can maintain is directly related to the nutrients they have available. The cells are stimulated to grow in the control media containing optimal amounts of specific micronutrients. As each micronutrient is removed from the media, the cells must use their own internal mechanisms (reserves or metabolic processes) to grow. If cells grow optimally, they are functioning adequately and thus are not deficient. If cells do not grow optimally, then a deficiency is indicated. For example, when Zinc is removed from the media and cell growth is not sufficient, this indicates that the lymphocyte cells have a functional intracellular deficiency of Zinc.
A functional deficiency encompasses any of the factors that reduce the efficacy of a nutrient. Thus, a given nutrient may be present, but it may not be properly activated, appropriately localized or have sufficient cofactors to function at a normal level of activity. Whatever the cause, the result will be a defect in the biochemical pathways that depend upon that nutrient for optimal function. A deficient or defective pathway may operate at a sub-optimal level for many months, or even years, before a clinical symptom becomes apparent. Micronutrient deficiencies aren’t just a reflection of diet. Since we are all biochemically unique, nutrient deficiencies will vary from person to person, and do not necessarily correlate directly with nutrient intake, even among those with similar health conditions. Many factors beyond diet determine whether nutrient function is adequate. These include biochemical individuality, genetic predisposition, absorption and metabolism, age, disease conditions and medications. Some folks spend hundreds of dollars a year and don’t need to. Others need a few inexpensive supplements to stay healthy and this test will detail the best for each of us. This is Personal Medicine at its highest level, rather than what most of us doctors practice “One Size Fits All”.
You can be deficient in micronutrients and not even know it until it is too late and, for example, develop Cancer. Studies have shown that 50% of patients taking a multivitamin are functionally deficient in one or more essential nutrients that are vital to long-term health. Deficiencies suppress the function of the immune system and contribute to degenerative processes. Propetology is another word coined by Dr Williams which is the potential science of the “leaning” (Greek) of individuals toward certain diseases. This is a genetic or other predisposing factor that gives one person the tendency to have a given medical problem, but another with the same exposure not have any difficulty.
SPECTROX is a total antioxidant function test that assesses the ability of cells to resist damage caused by free radicals and other forms of oxidative stress that is included in the study using the same technology as the micronutrient testing.
The micronutrient test was prohibitory expensive until recently when it not only became commercially available from Spectracell Laboratories that is the descendant of Drs Williams and Shive and is paid for by most insuranc plans including Medicare and Medicaid except for a $160 co-pay.
In 1949 Dr. Roger Williams, who previously discovered five vitamins, coined the word Genetotrophic disease which means having both genetic (geneto) and nutritional (trophic) roots. Later (1956) he published the book Biochemical Individuality: The Basis for the Genetotrophic Concept. William Shive, Ph.D., who was chairman of the department of biochemistry and a researcher in the field of nutrition at the University of Texas, began work on a diagnostic test for clinicians in 1978. His work was strongly influenced by Williams. Dr. Shive first identified appropriate cells for the functional assays. He selected lymphocyte cells because they are simple to collect (via venipuncture), easily isolated from other whole blood components, and maintainable in culture for days to weeks.
These harvested lymphocytes are in a resting state in terms of cell division. Since they have a 4 to 6 month lifespan, the nutrient levels accumulated in these lymphocytes represent a history of an individual's nutrient status. This is analogous to using HbA1c measurements to approximate a diabetic person's glucose levels over the preceding 3 months. Thus, lymphocytes provide a history rather than a snapshot of nutrient intake. Resting lymphocytes can be stimulated by a lymphocyte-specific mitogen to undergo cell division and grow in culture. The degree of growth that the lymphocytes can maintain is directly related to the nutrients they have available. The cells are stimulated to grow in the control media containing optimal amounts of specific micronutrients. As each micronutrient is removed from the media, the cells must use their own internal mechanisms (reserves or metabolic processes) to grow. If cells grow optimally, they are functioning adequately and thus are not deficient. If cells do not grow optimally, then a deficiency is indicated. For example, when Zinc is removed from the media and cell growth is not sufficient, this indicates that the lymphocyte cells have a functional intracellular deficiency of Zinc.
A functional deficiency encompasses any of the factors that reduce the efficacy of a nutrient. Thus, a given nutrient may be present, but it may not be properly activated, appropriately localized or have sufficient cofactors to function at a normal level of activity. Whatever the cause, the result will be a defect in the biochemical pathways that depend upon that nutrient for optimal function. A deficient or defective pathway may operate at a sub-optimal level for many months, or even years, before a clinical symptom becomes apparent. Micronutrient deficiencies aren’t just a reflection of diet. Since we are all biochemically unique, nutrient deficiencies will vary from person to person, and do not necessarily correlate directly with nutrient intake, even among those with similar health conditions. Many factors beyond diet determine whether nutrient function is adequate. These include biochemical individuality, genetic predisposition, absorption and metabolism, age, disease conditions and medications. Some folks spend hundreds of dollars a year and don’t need to. Others need a few inexpensive supplements to stay healthy and this test will detail the best for each of us. This is Personal Medicine at its highest level, rather than what most of us doctors practice “One Size Fits All”.
You can be deficient in micronutrients and not even know it until it is too late and, for example, develop Cancer. Studies have shown that 50% of patients taking a multivitamin are functionally deficient in one or more essential nutrients that are vital to long-term health. Deficiencies suppress the function of the immune system and contribute to degenerative processes. Propetology is another word coined by Dr Williams which is the potential science of the “leaning” (Greek) of individuals toward certain diseases. This is a genetic or other predisposing factor that gives one person the tendency to have a given medical problem, but another with the same exposure not have any difficulty.
SPECTROX is a total antioxidant function test that assesses the ability of cells to resist damage caused by free radicals and other forms of oxidative stress that is included in the study using the same technology as the micronutrient testing.
The micronutrient test was prohibitory expensive until recently when it not only became commercially available from Spectracell Laboratories that is the descendant of Drs Williams and Shive and is paid for by most insuranc plans including Medicare and Medicaid except for a $160 co-pay.
Monday, December 20, 2010
HEALTH TO THE NINES-PRO ARGI 9
Why 9? The number nine has long been used as a superlative. Classical mythology gave us the Nine Muses of Arts and Learning. The Nine Worthies were characters drawn from the Pagan and Jewish history and from the Bible. This distinguished group consisted of Hector, Alexander, Julius Caesar, Joshua, David, Judas Maccabaeus, King Arthur, Charlemagne, and Godfrey of Bouillon. This then is a takeoff of the main constituent, Arginine, the 9 chaperone ingredients and it is exceptional for total body health.
In 1998, the Nobel Prize was awarded to Louis Ignarro for the discovery of EDRF(endothelium-derived relaxing factor), a chemical produced in the lining of the blood vessels, which keeps them healthy. Several years earlier, Stanford's Dr. John Cooke and other investigators had found that specific nutrients enhance EDRF production and improve blood flow in people with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors for heart disease. The atom of cardiovascular health--a tiny molecule called Nitric Oxide. NO, as it is known by chemists, is the signaling molecule produced by the body, and is a vasodilator that helps control blood flow to every part of the body. Dr. Ignarro's findings led to the development of Viagra and other patented and supplemental products such as Pro-Argi 9.
Arginine, or more correctly L-Arginine is the natural molecule in our body that produces NO in that one-cell-thick lining of our blood vessels called the endothelium. NO has a beneficial effect on the whole cardiovascular system. It relaxes and enlarges the blood vessels, prevents blood clots that can trigger strokes and heart attacks, regulates blood pressure and the accumulation of plaque in the blood vessels. Current research indicates that NO may help lower cholesterol by facilitating the actions of statin drugs like Lipitor or lower lipids by itself. It also has been shown to improve the immune system, facilitate healing, prevent cancer, enhance nerve and brain function and act as an antiaging molecule by stimulating HGH (Human Growth Hormone). It is also the promolecule of Argmantine which decreases pain and promotes better cognitive health which is a subject of a whole discussion that will be forthcoming.
Arginine is a conditionally nonessential amino acid, meaning in healthy young folks it can be manufactured by the human body, and does not need to be obtained directly through the diet. But in older people or those with other diseases including stress, the biosynthetic pathway does not produce sufficient amounts, and must be consumed through diet. Arginine is found in a wide variety of foods, including red meat and dairy products. However, these need to be consumed in large quantities such as two pounds of steak or three quarts of milk daily. This so called “food” is inflammatory and causes poor health in the majority of 21st centurions.
In our body, Arginine is synthesized from another semi-essential amino acid, citrulline, by several cellular enzymes. But it is a very energy costly, with each molecule produced two ATP equivalents are used up. In healthy humans, synthesis of arginine occurs principally in the intestine and kidney. The lining of the small intestine produces citrulline primarily from glutamine which naturally is in our diet if we eat healthily. The kidney extracts citrulline from the circulation and converts it to arginine, which is returned to the circulation. Consequently, poor diet, impairment of small bowel or kidney function can reduce arginine and NO. To make matters worse there is a competing molecule that some of us have in our body, ADMA, that causes an even lower level of NO and health. More about ADMA later.
Since the early 1970’s L-Arginine has been used as a supplement with only placebo effect, but in the last five years there have been several good products available. Engineered by Dr Ignarro himself are Niteworks and most recently Pro-Argi 9. These have at least 4 grams of L-Arginine. 200mg of L-citrullene , and chaperone molecules such as Vitamin C, Folic Acid, and Alpha Lipoic Acid. It comes in a canister or packets of powdered product. One scoop or packet is taken at least 90 minutes after eating and immediately before sleep. Carbohydrates and protein inhibit its intestinal absorption and taken at bedtime stimulates HGH release as well as insuring a good nights sleep. Certainly one could double and even triple the dose for better and quicker health benefit, but it is not necessary.
Pro Argi 9 is available from certain clinicians in the Tulsa area and on line. When a clinician or a patient feels that this product is needed, a special test called a Pulse Max to be described later is preformed. Most clinicians charge $50 for the study, but in most cases is paid for by insurances. This details the health of the cardiovascular system. The study is repeated three months later and if there is not considerable improvement in the test and how the individuals feels, the price of the product is returned by the organization that markets it. The cost is about $ 180 for three months and well worth it. For further information, call or ask at our front desk.
In 1998, the Nobel Prize was awarded to Louis Ignarro for the discovery of EDRF(endothelium-derived relaxing factor), a chemical produced in the lining of the blood vessels, which keeps them healthy. Several years earlier, Stanford's Dr. John Cooke and other investigators had found that specific nutrients enhance EDRF production and improve blood flow in people with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors for heart disease. The atom of cardiovascular health--a tiny molecule called Nitric Oxide. NO, as it is known by chemists, is the signaling molecule produced by the body, and is a vasodilator that helps control blood flow to every part of the body. Dr. Ignarro's findings led to the development of Viagra and other patented and supplemental products such as Pro-Argi 9.
Arginine, or more correctly L-Arginine is the natural molecule in our body that produces NO in that one-cell-thick lining of our blood vessels called the endothelium. NO has a beneficial effect on the whole cardiovascular system. It relaxes and enlarges the blood vessels, prevents blood clots that can trigger strokes and heart attacks, regulates blood pressure and the accumulation of plaque in the blood vessels. Current research indicates that NO may help lower cholesterol by facilitating the actions of statin drugs like Lipitor or lower lipids by itself. It also has been shown to improve the immune system, facilitate healing, prevent cancer, enhance nerve and brain function and act as an antiaging molecule by stimulating HGH (Human Growth Hormone). It is also the promolecule of Argmantine which decreases pain and promotes better cognitive health which is a subject of a whole discussion that will be forthcoming.
Arginine is a conditionally nonessential amino acid, meaning in healthy young folks it can be manufactured by the human body, and does not need to be obtained directly through the diet. But in older people or those with other diseases including stress, the biosynthetic pathway does not produce sufficient amounts, and must be consumed through diet. Arginine is found in a wide variety of foods, including red meat and dairy products. However, these need to be consumed in large quantities such as two pounds of steak or three quarts of milk daily. This so called “food” is inflammatory and causes poor health in the majority of 21st centurions.
In our body, Arginine is synthesized from another semi-essential amino acid, citrulline, by several cellular enzymes. But it is a very energy costly, with each molecule produced two ATP equivalents are used up. In healthy humans, synthesis of arginine occurs principally in the intestine and kidney. The lining of the small intestine produces citrulline primarily from glutamine which naturally is in our diet if we eat healthily. The kidney extracts citrulline from the circulation and converts it to arginine, which is returned to the circulation. Consequently, poor diet, impairment of small bowel or kidney function can reduce arginine and NO. To make matters worse there is a competing molecule that some of us have in our body, ADMA, that causes an even lower level of NO and health. More about ADMA later.
Since the early 1970’s L-Arginine has been used as a supplement with only placebo effect, but in the last five years there have been several good products available. Engineered by Dr Ignarro himself are Niteworks and most recently Pro-Argi 9. These have at least 4 grams of L-Arginine. 200mg of L-citrullene , and chaperone molecules such as Vitamin C, Folic Acid, and Alpha Lipoic Acid. It comes in a canister or packets of powdered product. One scoop or packet is taken at least 90 minutes after eating and immediately before sleep. Carbohydrates and protein inhibit its intestinal absorption and taken at bedtime stimulates HGH release as well as insuring a good nights sleep. Certainly one could double and even triple the dose for better and quicker health benefit, but it is not necessary.
Pro Argi 9 is available from certain clinicians in the Tulsa area and on line. When a clinician or a patient feels that this product is needed, a special test called a Pulse Max to be described later is preformed. Most clinicians charge $50 for the study, but in most cases is paid for by insurances. This details the health of the cardiovascular system. The study is repeated three months later and if there is not considerable improvement in the test and how the individuals feels, the price of the product is returned by the organization that markets it. The cost is about $ 180 for three months and well worth it. For further information, call or ask at our front desk.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
EAT FOR A LONGER AND BETTER LIFE. BE A CENTENARIAN.
Although many of us eat and maintain a healthy life style to look and feel better, there is a superior reason. That is to BE BETTER and LIVE LONGER. One can be productive and happy as a centenarian (living 100+ years. Over 70,000 centenarians in America!). How can you know how long and well you will live? There is a laboratory study for it, called TELOMERE TESTING. Until the summer of 2010, the test was prohibitively expensive, but now for less than $400, you can obtain your report card and intervene on life style to get a better and better score and either achieve your goal or come very close to it.
Telomeres are sections of DNA at the end of each chromosome whose primary function is to prevent chromosomal “fraying” when a cell replicates. As a cell ages, its telomeres become shorter. How much shorter is governed by genetic factors and environmental stressors. Eventually, the telomeres become too short to allow cell replication, the cell stops dividing and will ultimately die which is a normal biological process. The more of our cells die, the older and frailer we become until we ourselves die in that all our reserves are gone and we succumb to disease or just old age. The Telomere Test can determine the length of a patient’s telomeres in relation to the chronological age. The Patient Telomere Score is calculated based on the patient’s telomere length on white blood cells (T-lymphocytes). This is the average compared to telomere length on lymphocytes from a sample of the American population in the same age range. The higher the telomere score, the “younger” the cells and the longer and better that person will live. Yearly, the test can be repeated and you can work harder or do other interventions that will enhance your score and your life.
Diet plays a large role in telomere length. The best but the most difficult is caloric restriction to the point of just sustenance, a step away from starvation. Far easier and almost as good is eating correctly for your Apo E type, going easy on meat, with eating whole nutrient dense foods, as raw as possible, consumption of Omega 3s, and staying away from grains and processed foods. According to a study of patients with established cardiovascular disease in the January 20, 2010 issue of JAMA, increased telomere and survival rates occurred among individuals who had a high dietary intake of marine omega-3 fatty acids. In this 5 year study, the researchers found that individuals with the lowest DHA+EPA experienced the most rapid rate of telomere shortening, whereas those in the highest had the slowest rate of shortening. Levels of DHA+EPA were associated with less telomere shortening before and after sequential adjustment for established risk factors and potential confounders. For each 1-standard deviation increase in red cell Omega 3 levels was associated with a 32 percent reduction in the odds of telomere shortening! Both the micronutient and the Omega 3 levels tests are available at some labs and physicians offices and is preformed by Spectracell Laboratories.
Minimizing emotional (psychological) and physiological (infections, trauma and surgery) stress will keep your telomeres longer and you healthier. Additionally, increasing antioxidants slows telomere shortening. Physical excerise with adequate antioxidants will also give longer telomers. Common sense dictates that decreasing cardiovascular risk factors (Lipids, Homocysteine, Blood Pressure, Hs-C Reactive Protein, Glucose etc.) and correcting micronutrient deficencies such as Vitamins, Minerals, and Glutathione will preserve the telemomere length. Periodically getting rid of our poison buildup by colonic, and liver cleanses and from the skin by sweating (artificially by sauna or by heavy exercise) and minimizing the toxins in our water, air and food will go a long way in keeping our telomers longer. Keeping our hormones (Thyroid, Sex and Adrenal hormones) in balance and not getting sick also keeps our telomers longer. To not get sick means keeping our immune system healthy to include the consumption of Pre and Probiotics such as high-amylose-resistant cornstarch laced with Lactobacillus rhamnosus (PL60) and other Bacteroidetes spiecies. Staying out of harm's way for bodily damage in our daily pursuits such as not over indulging in alcohol and dangerous sports and occupations will keep our telomers and our lives longer.
Telomeres are sections of DNA at the end of each chromosome whose primary function is to prevent chromosomal “fraying” when a cell replicates. As a cell ages, its telomeres become shorter. How much shorter is governed by genetic factors and environmental stressors. Eventually, the telomeres become too short to allow cell replication, the cell stops dividing and will ultimately die which is a normal biological process. The more of our cells die, the older and frailer we become until we ourselves die in that all our reserves are gone and we succumb to disease or just old age. The Telomere Test can determine the length of a patient’s telomeres in relation to the chronological age. The Patient Telomere Score is calculated based on the patient’s telomere length on white blood cells (T-lymphocytes). This is the average compared to telomere length on lymphocytes from a sample of the American population in the same age range. The higher the telomere score, the “younger” the cells and the longer and better that person will live. Yearly, the test can be repeated and you can work harder or do other interventions that will enhance your score and your life.
Diet plays a large role in telomere length. The best but the most difficult is caloric restriction to the point of just sustenance, a step away from starvation. Far easier and almost as good is eating correctly for your Apo E type, going easy on meat, with eating whole nutrient dense foods, as raw as possible, consumption of Omega 3s, and staying away from grains and processed foods. According to a study of patients with established cardiovascular disease in the January 20, 2010 issue of JAMA, increased telomere and survival rates occurred among individuals who had a high dietary intake of marine omega-3 fatty acids. In this 5 year study, the researchers found that individuals with the lowest DHA+EPA experienced the most rapid rate of telomere shortening, whereas those in the highest had the slowest rate of shortening. Levels of DHA+EPA were associated with less telomere shortening before and after sequential adjustment for established risk factors and potential confounders. For each 1-standard deviation increase in red cell Omega 3 levels was associated with a 32 percent reduction in the odds of telomere shortening! Both the micronutient and the Omega 3 levels tests are available at some labs and physicians offices and is preformed by Spectracell Laboratories.
Minimizing emotional (psychological) and physiological (infections, trauma and surgery) stress will keep your telomeres longer and you healthier. Additionally, increasing antioxidants slows telomere shortening. Physical excerise with adequate antioxidants will also give longer telomers. Common sense dictates that decreasing cardiovascular risk factors (Lipids, Homocysteine, Blood Pressure, Hs-C Reactive Protein, Glucose etc.) and correcting micronutrient deficencies such as Vitamins, Minerals, and Glutathione will preserve the telemomere length. Periodically getting rid of our poison buildup by colonic, and liver cleanses and from the skin by sweating (artificially by sauna or by heavy exercise) and minimizing the toxins in our water, air and food will go a long way in keeping our telomers longer. Keeping our hormones (Thyroid, Sex and Adrenal hormones) in balance and not getting sick also keeps our telomers longer. To not get sick means keeping our immune system healthy to include the consumption of Pre and Probiotics such as high-amylose-resistant cornstarch laced with Lactobacillus rhamnosus (PL60) and other Bacteroidetes spiecies. Staying out of harm's way for bodily damage in our daily pursuits such as not over indulging in alcohol and dangerous sports and occupations will keep our telomers and our lives longer.
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