The Trick of Treats
Trick or Treat! This cheerful greeting will ring in many ears this week as we open our doors to costumed youngsters with bags or buckets held out for a sugar-laden sweet treat. It seems so innocent. The children are so cute and we like to make them happy. So why does everyone –parents, teachers and the children themselves usually have such a terrible week after everyone has been so nice and given them so much candy? Are the children really the little uncontrollable monsters they seem to be after Halloween? What about the parents who are sneaking some of the treats? Are they normally so short tempered?
The trick is in the treats. Refined sugar was once restricted from sale in the United States, much as a drug is today, according to William Dufty, author of Sugar Blues. Refined white sugar is stripped of the nutrients needed to help the body efficiently and safely digest and utilize sugar. Some of these nutrients include: fiber, calcium, magnesium, chromium, zinc, vanadium and the B-Complex vitamins. Since the body must have these nutrients to process the sugar, they will be robbed from the body tissues if they aren’t present in the food when it’s eaten. This causes valuable nutrient reserves to be depleted and deficiencies to develop. Eventually, in many cases, refined sugar consumption can lead to cardiovascular problems and diabetes.
When sugar is delivered to the body without the controlling helper nutrients, blood sugar rises quickly. This rise in blood sugar signals excess insulin production, which quickly lowers the blood sugar farther than normal and the person craves more sugar. Talk about a roller coaster! This scenario can lead to hypoglycemia, a disorder where the blood sugar chronically runs too low or spikes and crashes.
If that wasn’t enough, all this reaction to sugar can also lead to mental and emotional symptoms. ADHD, hyperactivity, irritability, impatience, anger and depression all can be caused by the roller coaster ride of sweet treats. Barbara Reed, author of Foods, Teens and Behavior, writes about her experience as a parole officer for juvenile delinquents. She discovered that most of these children were hypoglycemic. When she helped them get off refined sugar, white flour, alcohol and caffeine, they never got into trouble with the law again. Many parents have discovered that it is much easier to raise a child who does not eat refined carbohydrates (white sugar, white flour and other refined grain foods). They have also discovered that their children aren’t as susceptible to colds and flu. Sugar lowers the body’s immune function so that a person is less able to resist illness. One candy bar can lower immune response by 50% for five hours!
So what can be done? First of all it is important to start the day with protein and fiber. If a person can resist the urge to start the day with simple carbohydrates (sugar, white flour,(doughnuts, bagels) or refined grain products (cold breakfast cereals) and eat protein and fat for breakfast the blood sugar will have a better chance of staying more balanced all day. Eggs, avocadoes, hemp hearts, organic meats, unsweetened yogurt or coconut oil with protein shakes are all examples of high quality protein and fat choices.
Generally, fruit is a healthier choice when something sweet is desired. Berries tend to have a lower glycemic index, meaning that they affect the blood sugar less than many other fruits. The natural sweeteners of stevia, xylitol, sucanut, grade B maple syrup, honey and agave nectar are all healthier choices than refined sugar for moderate use.
So when can everyone safely indulge in all that Halloween candy? Probably (if you must) the best time would be after a dinner (supper around here) containing protein and vegetables so that there would be some fiber, fat and protein to help minimize the effect that the refined sugar has on the body. Even at that, someone may wake up on the wrong side of the bed.
For a free personalized body system analysis email herbsnwhey@cebridge.net
For Your Natural Health,
Jeanette Barcus, Natural Health Consultant
http://www.mynsp.com/herbsnwhey
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Stopping Disease at Its Source
“Disease is not caught it is created by the way we eat, drink, think and live.” So goes the quote I have in may store by Dr. Bernard Jensen. The following information taken with permission from the Untold Truth series by Dr. Alex Duarte will help illustrate the amazing truth of that shocking statement and help show steps that can be taken to create a healthier life. Many people suffer declining health, increased weight, fatigue, muscle aches and headaches on a regular basis and just chalk it up to increasing old age. The truth is that uncontrolled inflammation is behind every disease. If we can stop the inflammatory process after it has done its necessary work, we can stop production of disease in the body.
Inflammation is, basically swelling. “It’s your body’s way of fighting infection or trying to heal from a wound or illness, and, when temporary, it’s natural and normal.” Says Dr. Duarte.
Inflammation is an important part of healing in the body. The purpose of inflammation is to bring healing nutrients and circulation to the injured site. “Inflammation starts as a response to stimulus.” He continues. “ That stimulus may be an injury , an illness or....your food and lifestyle. Inflammation, next, can progress in one of two ways. First is on the road to health, where the body receives the essential nutrients it needs to combat the stimulus and return to health. In this case, the inflammation is temporary.
However, if the stimulus is repeated again and again or is a chronic way of life, then inflammation leads to pain, infection and vulnerability to viruses or parasites –all elements that cause yet more and more inflammation. This vicious circle ultimately breaks down organ function, weakens the heart muscle and causes the insulin resistance that leads to diabetes or triggers cancer, Alzheimer’s disease or arthritis. Each person’s body reacts uniquely to prolonged inflammation and that’s why it’s taken so long to make the connection between these very different diseases and the common link, inflammation.” Happily, there is something simple and natural you can do about it. Stopping uncontrolled inflammation comes back to nutrition and lifestyle.
There are three main nutrition related partners to inflammation, they are: Blood sugar, Acidity, and Oxidation.
Studies show that if we can keep blood sugar balanced, we can dramatically slow the aging process and reduce inflammation. Dr. Duarte writes, “Blood sugar rises each time we eat. That’s normal. But when we eat foods that are high in carbohydrates and digest quickly, our blood sugar spikes and our body rushes to compensate. Common foods like fruit juice, pasta, white breads or white rice top the high glycemic index—meaning they put your body on an unhealthy blood glucose roller coaster. These foods rob cells of nutrients, make them more difficult for the body to absorb and stress organs by spiking blood sugar. Eat them as the core of your diet, and these constant blood spikes will lead to inflammation—making the cells stiffer and less receptive to insulin and potentially leading to diabetes. Or these spikes will weaken arteries and heart muscle and lead to heart disease or a host of other inflammation related maladies including fatigue, confusion and perhaps later, Alzheimer’s and arthritis.
Normal acidity (which can be measured with saliva and urine tests) should range between 6.0 and 7.0 on the pH scale, and I’d suggest that anything below 6.4 is dangerously acidic. But most of us loiter below normal and that acidity provokes inflammation—for a number of reasons, including that high blood acidity prevents the absorption of many vitamins or minerals. Low to no nutrient absorption means your body is wrestling constant deficiency, even when you’re taking supplements and eating right!” Eating more alkaline foods like fresh fruits and vegetables will help the body become more balanced. Food that is cooked, canned, frozen or processed, or contain white sugar, flour or artificial sweeteners are higher on the acidic scale. Soda pop, coffee and tea are also highly acid producing. “’Eating any of these high acid foods repeatedly will cause cumulative acidity in your body that can take weeks or months of change to eradicate—all the while allowing inflammation to do its damage! And in closing let me state a clarifying reminder that “acidity” here does not refer to acid in the stomach. Acid in the stomach is necessary for food digestion. Stomach acid is a good thing and doesn’t contribute to acidosis.”
“Oxidation occurs when free radicals (molecules looking for an extra electron) moves through the body and damage the cells they contact. In time, oxidation can lead to cancerous tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and other complications. Oxidation can run rampant when we don’t eat enough anti-oxidant rich foods, like blueberries or tomatoes. Like its other partners, oxidation stresses cells and damages tissues. The body tries to fight it—with what? Inflammation. And the vicious cycle begins.”
Many believe that our genes control whether we develop disease or not, but our genes just respond to what we provide for them. If we give our genes high blood sugar, highly acidic and oxidation producing diets and no anti-oxidant rich foods, they will respond with inflammation and disease. When you avoid the triggers that promote inflammation, you may be able to keep your genes in check permanently.
What else can we do to keep inflammation and disease triggers in check? Add partners
in healing in the form of essential nutrients. Numerous studies show that we can’t get all the nutrients we need from even the best food these days. Supplementing with these inflammation fighting essential nutrients can help you have a fighting chance in the battle for your health:
• Pure water
• Enzymes
• Fiber
• Vitamins and minerals
• Amino acids
• Essential fatty acids
• Anti-oxidants
• Probiotics
Research shows that this blend of inflammation fighting partners can help balance blood sugar, reduce oxidation and reduce acidity and in turn reduce uncontrolled inflammation, striking at the root of disease. Remember to choose the highest quality most natural supplements available to ensure health producing potential.
These statements are for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. Anyone can be allergic to anything and over-use or misuse of anything, even water can result in harm for the body. If you have a health problem, it is recommended that you consult a competent health practitioner before embarking on any course of treatment.
-Jeanette Barcus
Natural Health Consultant, Iridologist
Herbs ‘n’ Whey -Natural Help for Natural Health
“Because the Body is Designed to Heal Naturally”
Inflammation is, basically swelling. “It’s your body’s way of fighting infection or trying to heal from a wound or illness, and, when temporary, it’s natural and normal.” Says Dr. Duarte.
Inflammation is an important part of healing in the body. The purpose of inflammation is to bring healing nutrients and circulation to the injured site. “Inflammation starts as a response to stimulus.” He continues. “ That stimulus may be an injury , an illness or....your food and lifestyle. Inflammation, next, can progress in one of two ways. First is on the road to health, where the body receives the essential nutrients it needs to combat the stimulus and return to health. In this case, the inflammation is temporary.
However, if the stimulus is repeated again and again or is a chronic way of life, then inflammation leads to pain, infection and vulnerability to viruses or parasites –all elements that cause yet more and more inflammation. This vicious circle ultimately breaks down organ function, weakens the heart muscle and causes the insulin resistance that leads to diabetes or triggers cancer, Alzheimer’s disease or arthritis. Each person’s body reacts uniquely to prolonged inflammation and that’s why it’s taken so long to make the connection between these very different diseases and the common link, inflammation.” Happily, there is something simple and natural you can do about it. Stopping uncontrolled inflammation comes back to nutrition and lifestyle.
There are three main nutrition related partners to inflammation, they are: Blood sugar, Acidity, and Oxidation.
Studies show that if we can keep blood sugar balanced, we can dramatically slow the aging process and reduce inflammation. Dr. Duarte writes, “Blood sugar rises each time we eat. That’s normal. But when we eat foods that are high in carbohydrates and digest quickly, our blood sugar spikes and our body rushes to compensate. Common foods like fruit juice, pasta, white breads or white rice top the high glycemic index—meaning they put your body on an unhealthy blood glucose roller coaster. These foods rob cells of nutrients, make them more difficult for the body to absorb and stress organs by spiking blood sugar. Eat them as the core of your diet, and these constant blood spikes will lead to inflammation—making the cells stiffer and less receptive to insulin and potentially leading to diabetes. Or these spikes will weaken arteries and heart muscle and lead to heart disease or a host of other inflammation related maladies including fatigue, confusion and perhaps later, Alzheimer’s and arthritis.
Normal acidity (which can be measured with saliva and urine tests) should range between 6.0 and 7.0 on the pH scale, and I’d suggest that anything below 6.4 is dangerously acidic. But most of us loiter below normal and that acidity provokes inflammation—for a number of reasons, including that high blood acidity prevents the absorption of many vitamins or minerals. Low to no nutrient absorption means your body is wrestling constant deficiency, even when you’re taking supplements and eating right!” Eating more alkaline foods like fresh fruits and vegetables will help the body become more balanced. Food that is cooked, canned, frozen or processed, or contain white sugar, flour or artificial sweeteners are higher on the acidic scale. Soda pop, coffee and tea are also highly acid producing. “’Eating any of these high acid foods repeatedly will cause cumulative acidity in your body that can take weeks or months of change to eradicate—all the while allowing inflammation to do its damage! And in closing let me state a clarifying reminder that “acidity” here does not refer to acid in the stomach. Acid in the stomach is necessary for food digestion. Stomach acid is a good thing and doesn’t contribute to acidosis.”
“Oxidation occurs when free radicals (molecules looking for an extra electron) moves through the body and damage the cells they contact. In time, oxidation can lead to cancerous tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes and other complications. Oxidation can run rampant when we don’t eat enough anti-oxidant rich foods, like blueberries or tomatoes. Like its other partners, oxidation stresses cells and damages tissues. The body tries to fight it—with what? Inflammation. And the vicious cycle begins.”
Many believe that our genes control whether we develop disease or not, but our genes just respond to what we provide for them. If we give our genes high blood sugar, highly acidic and oxidation producing diets and no anti-oxidant rich foods, they will respond with inflammation and disease. When you avoid the triggers that promote inflammation, you may be able to keep your genes in check permanently.
What else can we do to keep inflammation and disease triggers in check? Add partners
in healing in the form of essential nutrients. Numerous studies show that we can’t get all the nutrients we need from even the best food these days. Supplementing with these inflammation fighting essential nutrients can help you have a fighting chance in the battle for your health:
• Pure water
• Enzymes
• Fiber
• Vitamins and minerals
• Amino acids
• Essential fatty acids
• Anti-oxidants
• Probiotics
Research shows that this blend of inflammation fighting partners can help balance blood sugar, reduce oxidation and reduce acidity and in turn reduce uncontrolled inflammation, striking at the root of disease. Remember to choose the highest quality most natural supplements available to ensure health producing potential.
These statements are for educational purposes only and should not be used to diagnose and treat diseases. Anyone can be allergic to anything and over-use or misuse of anything, even water can result in harm for the body. If you have a health problem, it is recommended that you consult a competent health practitioner before embarking on any course of treatment.
-Jeanette Barcus
Natural Health Consultant, Iridologist
Herbs ‘n’ Whey -Natural Help for Natural Health
“Because the Body is Designed to Heal Naturally”
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Arthritis support
Structural Health (NSP Article)
May is National Arthritis Month. Spearheaded by the Arthritis Foundation, it’s a time to increase awareness of this leading cause of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, limiting the activities of nearly 19 million adults. By the year 2030, 67 million (25%) adults aged 18 years and older will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.
The word arthritis actually means joint inflammation. Arthritis comprises more than 100 different rheumatic diseases and conditions, the most common of which is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions the joints. Other frequently occurring forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and gout. Although arthritis is more common among adults aged 65 years or older, people of all ages (including children) can be affected.
Joint supporting nutrients such as glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and devil’s claw help support optimal structural health.
Glucosamine is an amino sugar required for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, carbohydrate-containing compounds that are the major structural components of cartilage.1 Studies demonstrate that glucosamine is also capable of protecting connective tissues, relieving pain, and reversing the progression of joint degeneration.1,2
MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound. Sulfur is required for the production and repair of cartilage.3 MSM is also thought to have soothing and pain-reducing properties.4 Although MSM is found in many fresh foods, it is easily destroyed in cooking and processing. Thus, it makes sense to supplement the diet with MSM to ensure an adequate supply in the body.
Chondroitin is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is important in maintaining the structural integrity of connective tissue. Chondroitin sulfate is produced by chondrocytes and performs the important function of attracting fluid into the cartilage.1 This gives cartilage its spongy-like form, making it a good shock absorber. Evidence suggests that chondroitin sulfate protects cartilage and helps prevent cartilage breakdown.1,5
Hyaluronic acid (also known as HA or hyaluronan) is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan that occurs naturally throughout the body.6 It is found most abundantly in the skin, cartilage, synovial fluid, and eyes.1 Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in joint lubrication and is critical in maintaining joint health. Research indicates that hyaluronic acid may prevent joint inflammation, and the breakdown of cartilage.7,8
Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is named for the tiny hooks that cover its fruit. Devil’s claw root has been used for thousands of years in Africa for pain reduction.9 Devils claw root contains phytochemicals known as iridoid glycosides, including harpagoside, that have soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects.1 Studies show that taking devil’s claw root significantly reduces pain and improves physical functioning in people with joint pain.9
Something for Everyone
With over 600 products, Nature's Sunshine has something to fit just about every health need. Our 475 unique formulas give you more choices than any other company. We skillfully combine the right herbs and nutrients in special blends to maximize potency and ensure safety.
EverFlex® w/Hyaluronic Acid (60 tabs)
Benefits:
• Promotes joint health and normal function.
• Helps lubricate joints.
• May increase shock absorption in the joints.
• Enhances flexibility.
• May contribute to healthy cartilage.
EverFlex® with Hyaluronic Acid [Structural] offers the benefits of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, hyaluronic acid and devil’s claw in one convenient tablet. Glucosamine helps maintain the integrity, lubrication and mobility of joints. Chondroitin promotes cartilage tissue generation and attracts fluid into the cartilage, making it more shock absorbent.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a form of biologically active sulfur that is found in the human diet. Sulfur is important to joint health for a wide variety of processes. Hyaluronic acid is an important component of cartilage that plays a crucial role in joint motion and homeostasis. HA promotes the viscosity and elasticity of the fluid surrounding the joints.
Each 2-tablet serving provides a 1,900 mg proprietary blend of glucosamine hydrochloride (from crab shells), MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid and Devil’s Claw root.
Adults: Take 2 tablets twice daily with a meal.
Skeletal Strength® (150 tabs)
Benefits:
• Helps rebuild and preserve bone and muscle tissue.
• Supports stressed nerves.
• Provides balanced nutrients for best utilization.
Skeletal Strength® [Structural] is the key product formulated to provide nutrients necessary for proper structural system function. Skeletal Strength provides materials that the body uses to manufacture bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin.
Adults: Take 2 tablets with a meal twice daily.
Calcium Plus Vitamin D (200 tabs)
Benefits:
•Provides nutrients that support the structural system, especially the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin.
•Supports the body’s efforts in maintaining a balanced pH.
Calcium Plus Vitamin D [Structural] supplies nutrients required for both the structural and nervous systems. Combined with other trace minerals needed by the body, NSP Calcium helps replenish bone tissue that is constantly being replaced.
Calcium comprises half of all the minerals in the body. This formula also contains phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in the body. It works with calcium.
This formulation provides calcium and phosphorus at a 2:l ratio. Magnesium is also added in the same 2:1 ratio with calcium. Without these important ratios, the body begins to lose one or more minerals before it can utilize them. Calcium is needed by the immune system and is critical to muscle contractions.
Phosphorus works synergistically with B vitamins to help maintain a proper fluid balance in the body. Vitamin D is added to help calcium do its job. At least 400 IU of vitamin D is needed on a daily basis, especially for those not getting enough sunshine (D is the “sunshine vitamin”).
These nutrients come in a base of alfalfa herb and contain no sugar, starch, artificial coloring or flavoring.
Adults: Take 1 tablet with a meal three times daily.
Joint Support (100 caps)
Benefits:
• Provides nutrition to the joints and bones.
Joint Support [Structural, Nervous] provides a host of nutrients beneficial to the structural system. Individual ingredients in this formula are traditionally used for the following:
maintaining joint tissues, supporting the body during physical stress to joints, helping the body clear uric acid, promoting normal muscle health, supporting a balanced nervous system, promoting protein digestion, nourishing the nervous system and more.
It contains:
Alfalfa aerial parts Horsetail stems and strobilus Bromelain fruit Catnip leaves Celery seed
Black cohosh root Yarrow aerial parts Capsicum fruit Slippery elm bark
Valerian root Hydrangea root extract Yucca root extract White willow bark
Burdock root Sarsaparilla root
NOTE: Pregnant or lactating women should consult their health care provider prior to taking this supplement.
Adults: Take 2 capsules with a meal three times daily.
For best results, use with MSM, Calcium–Magnesium and MSM/Glucosamine Cream.
EverFlex® Pain Cream (2 oz. jar)
Benefits:
•Enhances joint mobility and flexibility through pain reduction.
•Relieves muscle and joint pain.
•Provides penetrating, fast-acting help.
EverFlex® Pain Cream [Structural] features the cooling relief of menthol plus a unique combination of cetylated fatty acid esters (cetyl myrsitoleate, myristate, palmitoleate, oleate, palmitate and laurate), olive oil and MSM. MSM is a great source of sulfur, an important structural component, while menthol is an approved active ingredient in many pain-relieving topical creams. This cream is easily absorbed through the skin for fast-acting structural support.
NOTE: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than seven days or clear up and occur again within a few days, discontinue use of product and consult a physician. Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin. Do not bandage tightly. Keep out of reach of children.
Adults and children 2 years of age and older: Apply to affected area not more than three to four times per day.
Children under 2 years of age, consult a physician.
References:
1. Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 9th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2007.
2. Reginster JY, Deroisy R, Rovati LC, Lee RL, Lejeune E, Bruyere O, Giacovelli G, Henrotin Y, Dacre JE, Gossett C. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lancet. 2001 Jan 27;357(9252):251-6.
3. University of Maryland Medical Center. Sulfur. 2007. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/sulfur-000328.htm Accessed April 20, 2010.
4. Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, Buratovich N, Waters RF. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2006 Mar;14(3):286-94. Epub 2005 Nov 23.
5. Baici A, Bradamante P. Interaction between human leukocyte elastase and chondroitin sulfate. Chem Biol Interact. 1984 Sep 1;51(1):1-11.
6. Laurent TC, Laurent UB, and Fraser JR. The structure and function of hyaluronan: an overview. Immunol Cell Biol 74:A1-A7, 1996.
7. Balazs E: The physical properties of synovial fluid and the specific role of hyaluronic acid. Disorders of the Knee. Edited by Helfet AJ. Philadelphia: J B Lippincott; 61-74, 1982.
8. Dougados M. Sodium hyaluronate therapy in osteoarthritis: arguments for a potential beneficial structural effect. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2000 Oct;30(2 Suppl 1):19-25.
9. University of Maryland Medical Center. Devil’s Claw. 2007. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/devils-claw-000237.htm Accessed April 20, 2010
May is National Arthritis Month. Spearheaded by the Arthritis Foundation, it’s a time to increase awareness of this leading cause of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, arthritis is the most common cause of disability in the United States, limiting the activities of nearly 19 million adults. By the year 2030, 67 million (25%) adults aged 18 years and older will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis.
The word arthritis actually means joint inflammation. Arthritis comprises more than 100 different rheumatic diseases and conditions, the most common of which is osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease caused by the breakdown of joint cartilage, the connective tissue that cushions the joints. Other frequently occurring forms of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, fibromyalgia, and gout. Although arthritis is more common among adults aged 65 years or older, people of all ages (including children) can be affected.
Joint supporting nutrients such as glucosamine, MSM, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and devil’s claw help support optimal structural health.
Glucosamine is an amino sugar required for the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, carbohydrate-containing compounds that are the major structural components of cartilage.1 Studies demonstrate that glucosamine is also capable of protecting connective tissues, relieving pain, and reversing the progression of joint degeneration.1,2
MSM is a naturally occurring sulfur compound. Sulfur is required for the production and repair of cartilage.3 MSM is also thought to have soothing and pain-reducing properties.4 Although MSM is found in many fresh foods, it is easily destroyed in cooking and processing. Thus, it makes sense to supplement the diet with MSM to ensure an adequate supply in the body.
Chondroitin is a sulfated glycosaminoglycan that is important in maintaining the structural integrity of connective tissue. Chondroitin sulfate is produced by chondrocytes and performs the important function of attracting fluid into the cartilage.1 This gives cartilage its spongy-like form, making it a good shock absorber. Evidence suggests that chondroitin sulfate protects cartilage and helps prevent cartilage breakdown.1,5
Hyaluronic acid (also known as HA or hyaluronan) is a non-sulfated glycosaminoglycan that occurs naturally throughout the body.6 It is found most abundantly in the skin, cartilage, synovial fluid, and eyes.1 Hyaluronic acid plays a major role in joint lubrication and is critical in maintaining joint health. Research indicates that hyaluronic acid may prevent joint inflammation, and the breakdown of cartilage.7,8
Devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) is named for the tiny hooks that cover its fruit. Devil’s claw root has been used for thousands of years in Africa for pain reduction.9 Devils claw root contains phytochemicals known as iridoid glycosides, including harpagoside, that have soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects.1 Studies show that taking devil’s claw root significantly reduces pain and improves physical functioning in people with joint pain.9
Something for Everyone
With over 600 products, Nature's Sunshine has something to fit just about every health need. Our 475 unique formulas give you more choices than any other company. We skillfully combine the right herbs and nutrients in special blends to maximize potency and ensure safety.
EverFlex® w/Hyaluronic Acid (60 tabs)
Benefits:
• Promotes joint health and normal function.
• Helps lubricate joints.
• May increase shock absorption in the joints.
• Enhances flexibility.
• May contribute to healthy cartilage.
EverFlex® with Hyaluronic Acid [Structural] offers the benefits of glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, hyaluronic acid and devil’s claw in one convenient tablet. Glucosamine helps maintain the integrity, lubrication and mobility of joints. Chondroitin promotes cartilage tissue generation and attracts fluid into the cartilage, making it more shock absorbent.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a form of biologically active sulfur that is found in the human diet. Sulfur is important to joint health for a wide variety of processes. Hyaluronic acid is an important component of cartilage that plays a crucial role in joint motion and homeostasis. HA promotes the viscosity and elasticity of the fluid surrounding the joints.
Each 2-tablet serving provides a 1,900 mg proprietary blend of glucosamine hydrochloride (from crab shells), MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), chondroitin sulfate, hyaluronic acid and Devil’s Claw root.
Adults: Take 2 tablets twice daily with a meal.
Skeletal Strength® (150 tabs)
Benefits:
• Helps rebuild and preserve bone and muscle tissue.
• Supports stressed nerves.
• Provides balanced nutrients for best utilization.
Skeletal Strength® [Structural] is the key product formulated to provide nutrients necessary for proper structural system function. Skeletal Strength provides materials that the body uses to manufacture bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin.
Adults: Take 2 tablets with a meal twice daily.
Calcium Plus Vitamin D (200 tabs)
Benefits:
•Provides nutrients that support the structural system, especially the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and skin.
•Supports the body’s efforts in maintaining a balanced pH.
Calcium Plus Vitamin D [Structural] supplies nutrients required for both the structural and nervous systems. Combined with other trace minerals needed by the body, NSP Calcium helps replenish bone tissue that is constantly being replaced.
Calcium comprises half of all the minerals in the body. This formula also contains phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in the body. It works with calcium.
This formulation provides calcium and phosphorus at a 2:l ratio. Magnesium is also added in the same 2:1 ratio with calcium. Without these important ratios, the body begins to lose one or more minerals before it can utilize them. Calcium is needed by the immune system and is critical to muscle contractions.
Phosphorus works synergistically with B vitamins to help maintain a proper fluid balance in the body. Vitamin D is added to help calcium do its job. At least 400 IU of vitamin D is needed on a daily basis, especially for those not getting enough sunshine (D is the “sunshine vitamin”).
These nutrients come in a base of alfalfa herb and contain no sugar, starch, artificial coloring or flavoring.
Adults: Take 1 tablet with a meal three times daily.
Joint Support (100 caps)
Benefits:
• Provides nutrition to the joints and bones.
Joint Support [Structural, Nervous] provides a host of nutrients beneficial to the structural system. Individual ingredients in this formula are traditionally used for the following:
maintaining joint tissues, supporting the body during physical stress to joints, helping the body clear uric acid, promoting normal muscle health, supporting a balanced nervous system, promoting protein digestion, nourishing the nervous system and more.
It contains:
Alfalfa aerial parts Horsetail stems and strobilus Bromelain fruit Catnip leaves Celery seed
Black cohosh root Yarrow aerial parts Capsicum fruit Slippery elm bark
Valerian root Hydrangea root extract Yucca root extract White willow bark
Burdock root Sarsaparilla root
NOTE: Pregnant or lactating women should consult their health care provider prior to taking this supplement.
Adults: Take 2 capsules with a meal three times daily.
For best results, use with MSM, Calcium–Magnesium and MSM/Glucosamine Cream.
EverFlex® Pain Cream (2 oz. jar)
Benefits:
•Enhances joint mobility and flexibility through pain reduction.
•Relieves muscle and joint pain.
•Provides penetrating, fast-acting help.
EverFlex® Pain Cream [Structural] features the cooling relief of menthol plus a unique combination of cetylated fatty acid esters (cetyl myrsitoleate, myristate, palmitoleate, oleate, palmitate and laurate), olive oil and MSM. MSM is a great source of sulfur, an important structural component, while menthol is an approved active ingredient in many pain-relieving topical creams. This cream is easily absorbed through the skin for fast-acting structural support.
NOTE: For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes. If condition worsens, or if symptoms persist for more than seven days or clear up and occur again within a few days, discontinue use of product and consult a physician. Do not apply to wounds or damaged skin. Do not bandage tightly. Keep out of reach of children.
Adults and children 2 years of age and older: Apply to affected area not more than three to four times per day.
Children under 2 years of age, consult a physician.
References:
1. Jellin JM, Gregory PJ, Batz F, Hitchens K, et al. Pharmacist’s Letter/Prescriber’s Letter Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. 9th ed. Stockton, CA: Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2007.
2. Reginster JY, Deroisy R, Rovati LC, Lee RL, Lejeune E, Bruyere O, Giacovelli G, Henrotin Y, Dacre JE, Gossett C. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lancet. 2001 Jan 27;357(9252):251-6.
3. University of Maryland Medical Center. Sulfur. 2007. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/sulfur-000328.htm Accessed April 20, 2010.
4. Kim LS, Axelrod LJ, Howard P, Buratovich N, Waters RF. Efficacy of methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) in osteoarthritis pain of the knee: a pilot clinical trial. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2006 Mar;14(3):286-94. Epub 2005 Nov 23.
5. Baici A, Bradamante P. Interaction between human leukocyte elastase and chondroitin sulfate. Chem Biol Interact. 1984 Sep 1;51(1):1-11.
6. Laurent TC, Laurent UB, and Fraser JR. The structure and function of hyaluronan: an overview. Immunol Cell Biol 74:A1-A7, 1996.
7. Balazs E: The physical properties of synovial fluid and the specific role of hyaluronic acid. Disorders of the Knee. Edited by Helfet AJ. Philadelphia: J B Lippincott; 61-74, 1982.
8. Dougados M. Sodium hyaluronate therapy in osteoarthritis: arguments for a potential beneficial structural effect. Semin Arthritis Rheum. 2000 Oct;30(2 Suppl 1):19-25.
9. University of Maryland Medical Center. Devil’s Claw. 2007. Available at: http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/devils-claw-000237.htm Accessed April 20, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Tips to Help Stop Smoking
For those who want to quit smoking.
Minimal program: Nature's Sunshine St. John's Wort (stock #653-1 or 655-3) and lobelia (stock #430-1).
These help stop the desire to smoke by helping the nervous system and the nicotine addiction.
Tobacco Detox really helps with on-the-spot cravings.
Some people like to put Nature's Sunshine's chewable vitamin C (stock# 1633-8)in a small rectangular container (the size of a pack of cigarettes) and put them in the pocket or place where their cigarettes usually are and take them when they reach for a smoke. This helps with the habit of getting something to put in the mouth and helps replenish the vit. C they have been losing by smoking.
Even though it sounds strange, it helps to say frequently (out loud and quietly to yourself), even as you are smoking -"I am a non-smoker". This programs your subconscious to direct you to the action you want and makes it easier to psychologically become a non-smoker. Most of the addiction is in the mind.
For some people, there is a blood-sugar imbalance that draws them back to smoking. Licorice root (stock # 420-6) or other blood sugar balancing herbal formulas like HY-C (1006-1 or 1886-5) or HY-A (950-0) can be helpful in that case.
(Do more research on herbal formulas if taking any medication.)
These suggestions are for educational purposes only and not intended for a diagnosis or prescription.
Minimal program: Nature's Sunshine St. John's Wort (stock #653-1 or 655-3) and lobelia (stock #430-1).
These help stop the desire to smoke by helping the nervous system and the nicotine addiction.
Tobacco Detox really helps with on-the-spot cravings.
Some people like to put Nature's Sunshine's chewable vitamin C (stock# 1633-8)in a small rectangular container (the size of a pack of cigarettes) and put them in the pocket or place where their cigarettes usually are and take them when they reach for a smoke. This helps with the habit of getting something to put in the mouth and helps replenish the vit. C they have been losing by smoking.
Even though it sounds strange, it helps to say frequently (out loud and quietly to yourself), even as you are smoking -"I am a non-smoker". This programs your subconscious to direct you to the action you want and makes it easier to psychologically become a non-smoker. Most of the addiction is in the mind.
For some people, there is a blood-sugar imbalance that draws them back to smoking. Licorice root (stock # 420-6) or other blood sugar balancing herbal formulas like HY-C (1006-1 or 1886-5) or HY-A (950-0) can be helpful in that case.
(Do more research on herbal formulas if taking any medication.)
These suggestions are for educational purposes only and not intended for a diagnosis or prescription.
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