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Home > Herbal Remedies Natural Health Newsletter, October 2009, Issue 290 > Herbal Remedies Newsletter Archives > 

Herbal Remedies Natural Health Newsletter, August 2006, Issue 262


Herbal Remedies Natural Health Newsletter, August 2006, Issue 262


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Herbal Remedies August 2006
Natural Health Newsletter Issue 262
Sponsored by www.HerbalRemedies.com
Toll Free for orders 1-866-467-6444

Issue Editor - Heather Bowman
Herbs - Vitamins - Minerals - Magnetics - Candles - Aromatherapy - Holiday Gifts - Bath & Beauty - Essential Oils - Natural Pet Care - Condition & Ailment Guide - Women's Health - Men's Health - Weight Loss - Health Books
  • Magnesium NOW Found to Help Reduce Inflammation - Click here for full story.

  • Coconut Oil: Another Reason to Love the Tropics - Click here for full story.

  • Coping with Cold Sores Naturally - Click here for full story.

  • Study Strengthens Lutein's Reputation as a Powerful Antioxidant - Click here for full story.

  • Soy Found to Help Maintain Healthy Bone Density in Postmenopausal Women - Click here for full story.

    Herbal Remedies has 2 partner sites be sure to check them out as well: Magnetic Therapy Magnets , and Natural Hair Loss Remedies

    In order to show customers how much we appeciate your business and celebration of our 6th year of quality service we are holding our Customer Appreciation Month

    Available now for downloading our Herbal Remedies Catalog .

    Herbal Remedies has three new vendors be sure to check them out: Improvita , Shikai, and NatraCare

    Products Spotlight - Got Stress? Got Natrual Calm? Natural Calm takes the magnesium in a form where it is completely dissolved in water. In this form the magnesium assimilates fast into the body producing almost instant relief. Natural Calm is a water-soluble magnesium powder providing the most assimilable, effective, fast-acting magnesium available. Natural Calm can: Improve Sleep; Boost Energy Levels; Relieve Muscle Discomfort; Overcome Stress; Relax Nerves; Improve Bad Mood; Improve Heart Function; Increase Kidney Health; Support Healthy Blood Pressure; Improve Bone Health; Alleviate Various Aches; Keep Bones in Alignment.

    Current Event News: How do I heal thee let me count the ways one two teatree! Did you know Tea Tree has so many healing benefits they had to make an entire handbook about it? For nearly a century, Australian tea tree oil has been proven clinically effective for over 100 various skin conditions. Tea Tree oil has a penetrating quality that makes it helpful in treating infected wounds, and it is most effective as an antiseptic against many bacteria and fungi. Tea Tree Oil can be used for general first aid uses such as cuts, burns, abrasions, insect bites, bee stings, rashes, impetigo, boils, sinus problems, sore throat, thrush, fingernail and toenail infections. It’s like a first aid kit in a bottle!

    To make your online shopping even more convenient for you we have a vast selection of products priced with you in mind in our RED HOT SALE ITEMS

    Be sure to check out our Barlean's Great Summer Savings Sale with prices up to 25% Off!

    QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

    Q:
    Subject: Hello
    I think I have the best minds here to ask if any of you can tell me the benefits of Beta Glucan? I have heard good things about this product but I want to know more if you can inform me I would be great full?

    Many thanks

    A:
    Dear Customer,
    Beta-Glucan is most commonly used to enhance the immune system and to lower blood cholesterol levels. Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol that include 3 grams of oat beta-glucan soluble fiber per day from oat bran may reduce the risk of heart disease by helping to lower blood cholesterol. Here are two great products with a high beta glucan content: Barley Beta Glucan and Oatbran Beta Glucan Capsules . Enjoy and all my best.

    Thank you for your interest in Herbal Remedies.com and the opportunity to serve you. Heather
    * The statements regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information on this Web site or in emails is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding you or your child's condition. Informational material and representations have been provided by the manufacturers of the listed products.

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Magnesium NOW Found to Help Reduce Inflammation

By Greg Arnold, DC, CSCS, August 3, 2006, abstracted from “Magnesium supplement intake and C-reactive protein levels in adults” in the May 2006 issue of Nutrition Research

Evidence continues to emerge “strongly supporting” the role that inflammation , particularly high levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP), plays in precipitating cardiovascular disease (CV).(1,2) With 1 in 3 Americans having high CRP levels(3) and being at high risk for CV,(4) finding effective ways to help decrease inflammation is paramount.

A number of foods and supplements, including fish oil ,(5) fiber ,(6) and pycnogenol ,(7) have been found to help decrease inflammation. Now a new study(8) has found that magnesium , found recently to help with Metabolic Syndrome,(9) may also help quell inflammation.

Previous research showed an inverse relationship between blood levels of magnesium and CRP in older women.(10) Building upon these findings, researchers examined data on more than 10,000 patients who participated in the 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).(11) Specifically, researchers looked at magnesium intake and CRP levels.

The researchers found that “taking a magnesium supplement had a big effect on total intake of magnesium”. Only 21.9% of those supplementing with less than 50 mg of magnesium per day met or exceeded the RDA for magnesium, while 60.2% of those supplementing with at least 50 mg magnesium per day met or exceeded the RDA.

When looking at magnesium and CRP, they found that those taking at least 50 mg of magnesium supplements daily were 22% less likely to have elevated CRP levels. Those who didn’t meet the RDA requirements for magnesium were 40% more likely to have elevated CRP levels. The fact that magnesium supplementation had an impact on the likelihood of having elevated CRP was “a key finding” in the study.

For the researchers, “magnesium supplement intake higher than 50 mg daily is associated with a lower likelihood of elevated CRP in people with low dietary magnesium intake.” According to the National Institutes of Health, the current US RDA recommendations for magnesium are up to 360 mg per day for men and 410 mg per day for women.(11)

Greg Arnold is a Chiropractic Physician practicing in Danville, CA. You can contact Dr. Arnold directly by emailing him at mailto:ChiroDocPSUalum@msn.com or visiting his website www.CompleteChiropracticHealthcare.com

Reference:

1 P.M. Ridker, M.J. Stampfer and N. Rifai, Novel risk factors for systemic atherosclerosis, JAMA 285 (2001) (19), pp. 2481–2485.

2 P.M. Ridker. Comparison of C-reactive protein and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the prediction of first cardiovascular events, N Engl J Med 347 (2002) (20), pp. 1557–1565

3 D.E. King, B.M. Egan, A.G. MainousIII and M. Geesey, Elevation of C-reactive protein in people with prehypertension, J Clin Hypertens 6 (2004) (10), pp. 562–568

4 T.A. Pearson et al., AHA/CDC scientific statement. Markers of inflammation and cardiovascular disease—application to clinical and public health practice, Circulation 107 (2003), pp. 499–511

5 Kim YJ. Anti-inflammatory action of dietary fish oil and calorie restriction; Life Sciences 2006; 78(21): 2523-2532

6 Ma J. Association between dietary fiber and serum C-reactive protein. Am J Clin Nutr 2006;83 760-766

7 Grimm T. Inhibition of NF-êB activation and MMP-9 secretion by plasma of human volunteers after ingestion of maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) Journal of Inflammation 2006, 3:1 (27 January 2006)

8 King DE. Magnesium supplement intake and C-reactive protein levels in adults. Nutr Res 2006; 26(3): 193-196

9 He K. Magnesium Intake and Incidence of Metabolic Syndrome Among Young Adults. Circulation 2006; 113(13): 1675-1682

10 S. Liu, Magnesium intake, C-reactive protein, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and older U.S. women, Diabetes Care 28 (2005) (6), pp. 1438–1444

11 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Website http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes.htm 12 NIH Website http://ods.od.nih.gov.proxy.cc.uic.edu/factsheets/magnesium.asp

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Coconut Oil: Another Reason to Love the Tropics

By Jayson Kroner, co-author, 7-Syndrome Healing, Mere mention of the word tropical recalls an endless horizon of mental imagery—breathtaking sunsets, white sand beaches, the tranquil resonance of steel drums and crashing surf. From a medicinal perspective, one of the tropic’s most commercially stereotyped fruits conjures images that are far different, though no less inspiring to those seeking wellness. Of course, I’m referring to the coconut .

Let’s begin with the basics. Coconuts have been consumed for thousands of years, and are regarded by many civilizations as a primary source of food. Interestingly enough, said civilizations exhibit health patterns and life expectancies that continue to bewilder health professionals. But why? Some would like you to believe that this is because their diets lack fast and processed foods, are high in fresh fish and vegetables and are rarely served through a window. Ok, so these are all very good points. Still, there is simply no mistaking the blatant connection between consumption of coconuts and the drastically low disease rates among the natives who eat them daily.

Here’s what we know. Unadulterated virgin coconut oil contains a number of beneficial medium chain triglycerides (MCT), including Lauric acid, Myristic acid, Capric acid, Oleic acid and Linoleic acid. And just so there’s no confusion, yes, coconut oil is a saturated fat. But because of its unique “medium chain” molecular structure, you need not worry about packing on the pounds.(1) MCT’s are unlike other unsaturated fats in that they provide many of the crucial metabolic constituents needed to burn fat , maintain healthy body weight, boost energy and immune system function , regulate thyroid activity, fight fatigue and absorb vital nutrients.(2,3,4) And among all of the pro-health compounds inherent to coconut oil, Lauric acid is clearly the most promising and significant.

Within the body, this ultra-beneficial MCT is converted into monolaurin—a chemical compound the body relies on in order to inactivate enveloped viruses, including cytomegalovirus, influenza, HSV-1, cytomegalovirus, HIV, and a wide array of other pathogenic invaders.(4,5) According to research, this remarkable activity can be attributed to monolaurin’s ability to bind to the lipid-protein envelopes of certain viruses, rendering them unable to attach themselves to host cells.(6) In the eyes of a growing body of researchers, this simple method of action makes viral replication and infection (in some viruses) nothing short of impossible. What’s even more impressive, there seems to be some pretty solid proof backing this bold theory. A number of studies, including several human trials, have reported “substantial across the board decreases in CD4 and CD8 counts” – a term used to measure total viral loads among patients with challenged immune systems. (7)

Other studies have showcased its unique ability to completely eradicate viruses by dissolving the sheath that protects them. Once exposed, many viruses are no match for the relentless immune system. Without its protective lipid membrane, the relationship between the virus and the host cell it invaded goes sour, making it very difficult to replicate, remain dormant or even defend itself.(8) And this is the precise influence that monolaurin seems to have on viruses and other pathogenic culprits.

Based on these findings, Coconut oil and lauric acid have become increasingly popular with HIV and AIDS patients, as they have been shown to drastically reduce viral loads and prevent many of the opportunistic health threats associated with weakened immune systems.(9) As a result, physicians now commonly use coconut oil when treating patients with immune challenges.

The good news doesn’t stop there, however. MCT’s, especially those in coconut oil, are not stored in the way that other saturated fats are. Rather, they are immediately metabolized by the liver and used as an instant (and might I add, very noticeable) source of energy.(10) I personally know several people who have been able to kick their coffee habits, and believe that one week of supplementation can convince anyone who doubts its energy producing potential. In fact, many physicians now recommend coconut oil to patients who deal with daily bouts of chronic fatigue.

Additionally, coconut oil is one of the most digestive-friendly compounds on earth. It has strong antiviral, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help rid the body of toxins without interfering with the activity of friendly flora.(11) And because it is metabolized immediately by the liver and sent to the bloodstream, less strain is placed on the digestive process. (12)

The skin is one of the most welcoming of all organs when it comes to reaping the benefits of coconut oil. Taken internally or applied topically, it is well known that coconut oil leaves the skin and hair soft and healthier in appearance and texture. Many users have reported that it clears up acne and blemishes , helps eliminate and reduce the appearance of scars, prevents eczema flare-ups, soothes psoriasis and restores a more vibrant skin tone.

Coconut oil is a remarkable gift to good health, plain and simple. Surprisingly, it seems as though we’ve only scratched the surface of the role it may play in disease prevention and the overall quality of life. I would encourage everyone who reads this to learn as much as they can about its potential benefits, and to, at some point, experience it for themselves. Look for a certified organic Virgin Coconut Oil that contains no less than 6 grams of Lauric Acid. It should be unrefined, unbleached, contain no trans fats and have a soft, distinct taste and texture.

References

1 Garfinkel M, Lee S, Opara EC, Akkwari OE. Insulinotropic potency of lauric acid: a metabolic rational for medium chain fatty acids (MCF) in TPN formulation. Journal of Surgical Research 1992;52:328-333

2 Portillo MP, Serra F, Simon E, del Barrio AS, Palou A. Energy restriction with high-fat diet enriched with coconut oil gives higher UCP1 and lower white fat in rats. International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders 1998;22:974-9 Sugano M, Ikeda I. Metabolic interactions between essential and trans-fatty acids. Current Opinions in Lipidology 1996;7:38-42

3 Awad AB. Effect of dietary lipids on composition and glucose utilization by rat adipose tissue. Journal of Nutrition 1981;111:34-39

4 Enig MG, Atal S, Sampugna J and Keeney M. Isomeric Trans Fatty Acids in the U.S. Diet. Journal of the American College of Nutrition 1990;9:471-486

5 Sands JA, Auperin DD, Landin PD, Reinhardt A, Cadden SP. Antiviral effects of fatty acids and derivatives: lipid-containing bacteriophages as a model system in The Pharmaco-logical Effect of Lipids (JJ Kabara, ed) American Oil Chemists' Society, Champaign IL, 1978, pp 75-95

6 Thormar H, Isaacs EC, Brown HR, Barshatzky MR, Pessolano T. Inactivation of enveloped viruses and killing of cells by fatty acids and monoglycerides. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 1987;31:27-31

7 Enig, MG. Lauric oils as antimicrobial agents: theory of effect, scientific rationale, and dietary applications as adjunct nutritional support for HIV-infected individuals. in Nutrients and Foods in AIDS (RR Watson, ed) CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1998, pp. 81-97

8 Isaacs CE, Thormar H. Human milk lipids inactivated enveloped viruses. in Breastfeeding, Nutrition, Infection and Infant Growth in Developed and Emerging Countries (Atkinson SA, Hanson LA, Chandra RK, eds) Arts Biomedical Publishers and Distributors, St. John's NF, Canada, 1990

9 Enig, MG. Lauric oils as antimicrobial agents: theory of effect, scientific rationale, and dietary applications as adjunct nutritional support for HIV-infected individuals. in Nutrients and Foods in AIDS (RR Watson, ed) CRC Press, Boca Raton, 1998, pp. 81-97

10 Hostmark AT, Spydevold O, Eilertsen E. Plasma lipid concentration and liver output of lipoproteins in rats fed coconut fat or sunflower oil. Artery 1980;7:367-383

11 Sugano M, Ikeda I. Metabolic interactions between essential and trans-fatty acids. Current Opinions in Lipidology 1996;7:38-42

12 Nanji AA, Sadrzadeh SM, Yang EK, Fogt F, Maydani M, Dannenberg AJ. Dietary saturated fatty acids: a novel treatment for alcoholic liver disease. Gastroenterology 1995;109:547-554

Disclaimer: The coconut oil featured in our Product Spotlight is naturally trans-fatty acid free and high in medium chain triglycerides (MCT). The health claims made in this article are not claimed by NOW's coconut oil. Claims made by NOW Foods for coconut oil as a health food are regulated by the FDA, and any claims made in the above article are not made by NOW Foods

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Coping with Cold Sores Naturally

By: Jayson Kroner, co-author of “7-Syndrome Healing

Twenty percent of the United States population should consider themselves extremely lucky. Because as astonishing as it may seem, it has been estimated that eighty-percent carry the virus that causes cold sores , with over thirty-percent suffering from recurrent outbreaks.(1) If you’re one of them, you already know what an embarrassing and isolating experience it can be. Considering that sun, heat and wind trigger many outbreaks, we thought that this would be a good time to review some of the best ways to help manage and cope with them.

Cold sores, or fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus (HSV1), and affect a large number of US adults and children. Researchers now believe that many of these cases stem from the childhood years, after inadvertent contact with an infected adult.(2) The virus is extremely contagious and can be spread via skin-to-skin contact, such as kissing or touching, as well as the sharing of utensils, towels, toiletries, beverages, telephones and a long list of other triggers.

Outbreaks come fast and are triggered by stress, sun, heat, high sugar intake, high sugar intake, wind and immune system suppression. Most sufferers experience an itchy, warm, tingling feeling on or near the lips (known as the prodrome phase) that can last anywhere from a few minutes to several days. Shortly thereafter, blisters form that eventually break, weep, crust, and heal themselves within a period of 10-14 days without scarring. There is currently no cure for HSV1. Once you contract it, the virus lies dormant in the nervous system for life.(3)

Prevention is key

With no cure in sight, preventing the initial exposure to the virus and expediting the body’s natural defense are the primary concerns. Based on the volume of individuals who carry the virus, HSV1 research has steadily increased over the years. The following dietary supplements and products have shown promise in helping manage and cope with them.

Lysine

In order for cold sores to grow and replicate, the HSV1 virus must have a generous supply of the amino acid L-arginine. Lysine, another amino acid, inhibits the virus’ ability to replicate. In the eyes of many researchers, this appears to be an effective way to help manage and shorten the duration of those that do surface.

Essential Oils

Essential oils, such as tea tree , bergamot , Essential Oils lemon balm, basil , oregano and geranium , have been shown to help dry cold sores during the weeping phase.(4,5) Keep in mind that many essential oils are highly concentrated and may cause irritation. Diluting and patch testing is strongly recommended, especially for anyone with sensitive skin. If you’re new to essential oils, pick up a copy of the book “Aromatherapy for Everyone”, by PJ Pearson and Mary Shipley. It’s a great guide for both new and experienced users.

B Vitamins

Taking a Stress B Complex and B-12 can help support a healthy nervous system and both have been used by millions to help cope with many forms of stress. Since the HSV1 virus lies dormant in the nerves between attacks, this can be a great additional support nutrient.

Immune system support

How fast a person recovers from a bout with cold sores has a lot to do with how responsive their immune system is. Antioxidants , especially Vitamins C and E , Zinc , Selenium and Alpha Lipoic Acid , can eliminate free radicals.(6) Probiotics work at the gastrointestinal level to help boost immune system response, and mushroom-based formulas stimulate the production of immune-boosting beta-glucans. Zinc Gluconate has been shown to disarm the virus’s ability to replicate.(7)

If you’re among the millions of Americans who suffer from recurrent outbreaks, you may be able to reduce your number of annual episodes by taking the following measures:

· Avoid foods high in Arginine (nuts, chocolate, and wheat) and replace them with foods rich in Lysine (potatoes, milk, beef, chicken, cheese, and yogurt). Avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugar.

· Never touch a cold sore with your bare hands. If you need to apply any drying or healing agents, do so with a clean cotton swab.

· Throw away toothbrushes used during outbreaks, and wash any linens or towels that were used at the time.

· Get lots of sleep. If your outbreak is making this difficult, supplementing melatonin or GABA at bedtime may be able to help.

· Do whatever you can to avoid stress. It is one of the most common triggers.

· Use high SPF sunscreen and lysine or zinc-based lip balms every day, even during the winter months.

If you’re one of the fortunate who don’t suffer from outbreaks and would like to keep it that way, the following may be able to help. The HSV1 virus is a relentless survivor, and can live on surfaces for several days after exposure.

· Don’t allow any item that has been out of your possession to touch your mouth. Office pens and pencils are two perfect examples. Use straws in restaurants when possible.

· Wash your hands often—not just when you’re sick, dirty or after using the washroom, but several times throughout the day.

· Even in family and platonic situations, be mindful of who you kiss. Be even more mindful of who greets and/or kisses your children. If you know (or even suspect) that a relative or close friend of the family has a history of cold sores, mention it politely. If that’s too embarrassing, have them read this article. You can blame me for even suggesting it.

· Keep a bottle of hand sanitizer in a convenient location, and use it after touching anything that gets high volume public use such at ATMs, gas pumps, debit/credit card authorization devices, and coffee cup/lid dispensers. Avoid the temptation to reach for a handful of unwrapped after dinner mints.

References:

1 US Census Bureau, Population Estimates, 2004

2 Ali, M. A., B. Forghani, and E. M. Cantin. 1996. Characterization of an essential HSV-1 protein encoded by the UL25 gene reported to be involved in virus penetration and capsid assembly. Virology. 216(1):278-83

3 Mayoclinic.com, Internet article published March 16, 2006

4 Wolbling RH, Leonhardt K. Local therapy of herpes simplex with dried extract from Melissa officinalis. Phytomedicine. 1994;1:25–31.

5 Carson CF, Ashton L, Dry L, et al. Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil gel (6%) for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2001;48:450–451

6 Hovi T, Hirvimies A, Stenvik M, et al. Topical treatment of recurrent mucocutaneous herpes with ascorbic acid-containing solution. Antiviral Res. 1995;27:263–270.

7 Godfrey HR, Godfrey NJ, Godfrey JC, et al. A randomized clinical trial on the treatment of oral herpes with topical zinc oxide/glycine. Altern Ther Health Med. 2001;7:49–54, 56.

Disclaimer: NOW Foods sells some of the dietary supplements that are mentioned in this article. Dietary Supplement claims are regulated by the FDA. NOW Foods does not make any claims for its products for the prevention or treatment of cold sores.

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Study Strengthens Lutein's Reputation as a Powerful Antioxidant

By Greg Arnold, DC, CSCS, July 20, 2006, abstracted from “Antioxidant activity, mutagenicity/anti-mutagenicity, and clastogenicity/anti-clastogenicity of lutein from marigold flowers” in the 2006 issue of Food and Chemical Toxicology

As an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables and in highest amounts in the marigold flower, lutein belongs to a group of plant pigments called carotenoids and has been researched for over fifteen years.(1) Lutein has been found to possess a number of health-promoting properties, especially in helping maintain eye health (2) is associated with improving markers of age-related macular degeneration,(3) the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the elderly population.

Lutein has also been found to help enhance immune system function ,(4) protect skin from ultraviolet light(5) and prevent cardiovascular hardening caused by aging and other factors.(6, 7) Lutein has also been listed by the FDA among the ten phytochemicals “generally regarded as safe”.(8) Now a new study(9) has not only increased lutein’s reputation as a very potent antioxidant, but also one that is safe at high dosages.

In the study, researchers exposed hamster cells to three different concentrations of lutein (1.9, 3.8, and 7.6 grams) to see if any of the dosages of lutein mutated any chromosomes in the exposed hamster cells. They also compared lutein’s antioxidant strength to that of lyocpene and beta-carotene using two different antioxidant tests called PCL and beta-CLAMS.(10)

The researchers found that not only did lutein not cause chromosome mutation at all doses, but it actually protected the chromosomes against mutation and did so more effectively as the dose of lutein increased. In the PCL and beta-CLAMS tests, lutein proved to be ten times more potent than beta-carotene and 15 times more potent than lycopene. In the beta-CLAMS test, lutein was the only one of the three antioxidants to prevent the oxidation of fat (called ‘peroxidation’) and did so by 34.5%.

For the researchers, the results of their study “suggest that lutein is not only safe, but can potentially help reduce risks of human chronic diseases.”

Greg Arnold is a Chiropractic Physician practicing in Danville, CA. You can contact Dr. Arnold directly by emailing him at mailto:ChiroDocPSUalum@msn.com or visiting his website www.CompleteChiropracticHealthcare.com

Reference:

1 J.S. Bertram, Carotenoids enhance gap junction communication and inhibit lipid peroxidation in C3H/10T/2 cells: relationship to their cancer chemopreventive action, Carcinogenesis 12 (1991) (1), pp. 109–114

2 Choi JS. Inhibition of nNOS and COX-2 expression by lutein in acute retinal ischemia. Nutrition 2006, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 2 May 2006

3 T.S. Wong, Effects of lutein from marigold extract on immunity and growth of mammary tumors in mice, Anticancer Research 16 (1996), pp. 3689–3694

4 S.J. Schwartz, Carotenoids composition of marigold (Tagetes erecta) flower extract used as nutritional supplement, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry 47 (1999) (10), pp. 4189–4194

5 Glamm JE. Xanthophylls and alpha-tocopherol decrease UVB-induced lipid peroxidation and stress signaling in human lens epithelial cells. J Nutr. 2004 Dec;134(12):3225-32.

6 E. Giovannucci, Intake of specific carotenoids and risk of lung cancer in 2 prospective US cohorts, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 72 (2000), pp. 990–997.

7 J.D. Potter, Carotenoids and colon cancer, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 71 (2000), pp. 575–582

8 FDA Website http://www.fda.gov

9 Wang M. Antioxidant activity, mutagenicity/anti-mutagenicity, and clastogenicity/anti-clastogenicity of lutein from marigold flowers. Food Chem Toxicol 2006; 44(9): 1522-1529 10 D.E. Pratt, Chia seeds as a source of natural lipid antioxidants, Journal of the American Oil Chemists’ Society 61 (1984), pp. 928–931

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Soy Found to Help Maintain Healthy Bone Density in Postmenopausal Women

By Greg Arnold, DC, CSCS, July 20, 2006, abstracted from “Soy isoflavones attenuate bone loss in early postmenopausal Chinese women: A single-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial” printed online in the European Journal of Nutrition

As a health concern that faces one in three postmenopausal women,(1) osteoporosis causes 90% of all hip fractures,(2) results in more than 2.5 million physician visits, 432,000 hospitalizations, and 180,000 nursing home admissions each year(3) and costs our healthcare system more than $15 billion each year.(4)

Because estrogen deficiency is a major cause of postmenopausal osteoporosis,(5) hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is currently the most effective therapy for maintaining bone density. But because HRT increases the risk of both endometrial and breast cancer ,(6) a “more acceptable alternative therapy” that can mirror the bone maintenance benefits of HRT, but without the undesirable side effects, needs to be identified. Now a new study(7) re-suggests that the “more acceptable therapy” might be soy .

As an extremely popular supplement in America with more than $2 billion in sales each year,(8) soy has been found to exhibit heart-health benefits(9) as well as support normal blood pressure levels (10) and improve mood and brain function.(11)

Building upon previous research showing that soy has the potential to decrease the risk of bone fractures in postmenopausal women,(12) 90 women aged 45–60 years were given either 84 mg of soy isoflavones, 126 mg isoflavones or placebo for six months. Researchers measured bone mineral density (BMD) of the spine and hip at 0 and 6 months, while measuring urine levels of bone loss at 0, 3, and 6 months.

The researchers found that higher dose of isoflavones had “a significant effect” on helping slow bone loss compared to both placebo and that the bone-specific urine biomarker of bone loss, called Dpd, was “significantly decreased” in both soy groups compared to placebo. But the significant decrease in bone loss in the higher soy group caused the researchers to suggest that “the optimal intervention dose might be larger than 80–90 mg isoflavones per day for the prevention of bone loss in this population.”

For the researchers, “soy isoflavones had a significantly positive dose-dependent effect on [minimizing] bone loss in postmenopausal Chinese women” and that “the high-dose of 126 mg isoflavones per day is an effective dose for the prevention of postmenopausal bone loss.”

Greg Arnold is a Chiropractic Physician practicing in Danville, CA. You can contact Dr. Arnold directly by emailing him at mailto:ChiroDocPSUalum@msn.com or visiting his website www.CompleteChiropracticHealthcare.com

Reference:

1 Wasnich RD (1997) Epidemiology of osteoporosis in the United States of America. Osteoporos Int Suppl 3:S68–S72

2 Melton LJ 3d, Thamer M, Ray NF, Chan JK, Chesnut CH 3d, Einhorn TA, et al. Fractures attributable to osteoporosis: report from the National Osteoporosis Foundation. J Bone Miner Res 1997;12:16-23

3 Ray NF, Chan JK, Thamer M, Melton LJ 3d. Medical expenditures for the treatment of osteoporotic fractures in the United States in 1995: report from the National Osteoporosis Foundation. J Bone Miner Res 1997;12:24-35.

4 NIH Consensus Development Panel on Osteoporosis Prevention, Diagnosis, and Therapy. Osteoporosis prevention, diagnosis, and therapy. JAMA 2001;285: 785-95.

5 Hodgson SF (2001) American association of clinical endocrinologists 2001 medical guidelines for clinical practice for the prevention and management of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Endocr Pract 7:293–312

6 Garg P, Kerlikowske K, Subak L, Grady D (1998) Hormone replacement therapy and the risk of epithelial ovarian carcinoma: a meta-analysis. Obstet Gynecol 92:472–479

7 Soy isoflavones attenuate bone loss in early postmenopausal Chinese women: A single-blind randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Eur Jou Nutr printed online June 8, 2006 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-006-0602-2

8 Supermarket News Vol. 46, No. 11, March 11, 1996, p. 51

9 Jakes, R. W., S. W. Duffy, et al. (2002). "Mammographic parenchymal patterns and self-reported soy intake in Singapore Chinese women." Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 11(7): 608-13

10 Yang G. Longitudinal study of soy food intake and blood pressure among middle-aged and elderly Chinese women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2005 May;81(5):1012-7

11 Casini ML. Psychological assessment of the effects of treatment with phytoestrogens on postmenopausal women: a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study. Fertility and Sterility 2006: 85(4): 972-978

12 Zhang, X., X. O. Shu, et al. (2005). "Prospective cohort study of soy food consumption and risk of bone fracture among postmenopausal women." Arch Intern Med 165(16): 1890-5

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